In this episode, Kurt is joined by Rev. Dr. Keith Posehn, the pastor and head of staff at Grace Presbyterian Church in Spring Hill, Florida. A self-described 5th generation Californian, he attended the Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington and the San Francisco Theological Seminary, before getting his Doctorate of Ministry at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He has authored books dealing with relationship health, indepth Bible study, and some works of fiction. Tune in to hear him discuss finding the balance between academic education and practical experience, and how to survive in ministry — one of the most difficult callings.

Key Takeaways:

[1:19]  Kurt introduces his guest for today — Rev. Dr. Keith Posehn

[2:10]  Having earned a doctorate and spent significant time in Seminaries, what are some of the biggest differences Keith has seen between academic environments, and local parish ministry? Everything.

[3:30] What were some of the biggest surprises other people may have, when they enter Ministry without prior experience?

[6:11] Kurt comments that people who find themselves running a smaller church tend to feel overwhelmed. Does this also apply to people at bigger organizations?

[7:56]  Someone who's had a lot of success in a smaller church, may not have the tools to deal with being part of a larger organization.

[9:08] Keith remarks that another thing they don't teach you at Seminary, is how to delegate, and that's one of the most important things a Pastor needs to be able to do,  for his or her own self-preservation.

[10:01] The pastor's ability to delegate also creates a safety net for the church.

[10:44] It takes humility to be able to delegate. Keith shares his experiences coming to grips with things he's not good at, and delegating them to others who are.

[12:33] Kurt brings up the idea of radical hospitality — when we welcome in strangers into our congregation, not only are we hoping that they will be changed, but we have to be willing to be changed ourselves.

[13:59]  Keith describes the difference that wearing his robe makes to people in his congregation. What we wear sends a message to people.

[15:52]  Symbols like the robe can reaffirm position, but also create barriers.

[17:46]  Have there been any times when Keith's academic experience and credentials have been a barrier? Is there an issue of "elites" in the church?

[19:56] Kurt and Keith share their personal experience of sometimes being more educated than the priests and pastors they worked with.

[24:45] Keith looks at his education as a means to understand.

[28:39] What words of wisdom does Keith have about the education versus the practical experience? Do you need to be ordained to have the kind of pastor experience you are seeking?

Mentioned in This Episode:

God’s Business

God’s Business on Facebook

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