In this episode, Kurt is joined by Rev. Glenn Mortimer of Wakefield/Lynnfield United Methodist Church. Glenn was a preacher’s kid (PK) growing up, and spent time successfully managing a nonprofit organization before seminary. Tune in to find out more about Glenn’s experiences with his uphill battle in his first church placement out of seminary, and how he managed to turn the church around to become a thriving community today.

Key Takeaways:

[1:35] Kurt Glacy introduces his guest for this episode: Rev. Glenn Mortimer of Wakefield/Lynnfield United Methodist Church.

[2:19] How did Glenn end up at his church? What was it like when he got there?

[4:19] Glenn wasn't even an ordained minister when he was appointed to his church.

[5:15] What was the congregation like? How did they respond to Glenn's placement there?

[6:19] What were some of the first things that Glenn did in his appointment?

[8:20] Glenn shares how he is able to successfully balance his role as a pastor and a leader.

[10:15] In addition to program and worship-based problems, there were structural issues at the church that Glenn needed to address.

[12:33] What were the most valuable skills and experiences that Glenn brought to the table, that helped his church immediately?

[14:55] Kurt recommends Autopsy of a Deceased Church, by Tom Reiner, for some lessons we can learn from churches that have failed.

[15:15] How did Glenn find out what the needs of the community were?

[17:15] When things are going poorly, the natural inclination is to focus in on your organization, but the key to success is to look outward.

[19:06] Glenn leaves us with some advice and encouragement for other ministers, church leaders, and seminaries serving at churches in trouble.

[20:52] Glenn will be joining us again in the future, to share his wisdom.

Mentioned in This Episode:

God’s Business

God’s Business on Facebook

Email God’s Business

God's Business: Making Church Leaders Less Stressed and More Effective by Leveraging the Experience of Others, by Kurt M. Glacy

Wakefield/Lynnfield United Methodist Church

Autopsy of a Deceased Church, by Thom S. Rainer