The Pastor as Change Agent

Today we are living in the changing world. The living and working environment has changed radically. No longer in western society there is expectancies of a settled home, neighbourhood, shopping centre, friend, bank, church or work for lifetime. As Gilbert Rendle writes, ‘We are facing changes not only in our congregations, but in our families, our work places, our government, our schools – and the list goes on.’1 Kenneth Gangel points out fundamental changes in the world since 18th century, ‘In 1790, 85 percent of the United States population was engaged in farming, but by 1979 only 3 percent; since then their ranks have been constantly threatened.’2
Humans are routine making beings and once a pattern is established, our left brain will quit happily walk along that path and enjoy routine. On the one hand church has to bring stability, security and establishment of our lives. On the other hand without change church becomes stagnated, uncreative and self-satisfied institution. In order to bring positive changes in the church God is calling different change agents. Not everybody could become a change agent as it is not about doing the right thing, but it is because of your personality – being, as being determents one’s doing. Also important thing about change is that the only person you can really change is you. So, we need to start with ourselves and then cooperate with others in the change process.…