Using Summer to Refresh Church Leadership: Strategies for a Seasonal Reset

As summer approaches – with its sunshine, BBQ’s, and vacation days – many churches experience a natural slowdown. Attendance dips (along with giving), Bible studies go on pause, and meetings relax.

To make the most of this slow season, churches can use the extra time and space to refresh leadership. New strategies, ideas, structures, and practices can help church leadership grow in skills and vision, and prepare for the busy months ahead.

Here are several strategies to help church leaders make the most of the summer months for a successful seasonal reset.

7 Strategies for Church Leadership Development

1. Reflect and Reevaluate

Reflect on the Past Year: Summer is a great time for church leaders to reflect on the past year’s activities and accomplishments. This reflection should include evaluating the church's successes, challenges, and areas needing improvement. Use this time to celebrate milestones achieved, acknowledge God's guidance, and thank church members for their dedication.

Reevaluate Goals and Vision: It’s essential to revisit the church’s mission and vision. Are the current goals still aligned with the purpose of Christ? Engage the leadership team in discussions about whether adjustments are needed to better serve the congregation and community.

Examples: Church leaders may see that engagement in small groups have taken a hit over the last several months. Leaders may decide to initiate a new campaign promoting small groups during weekend services. Or, they may shift around small group leadership roles to strengthen and refresh more intimate gatherings of church members.

2. Encourage Leadership Development

Training and Workshops: Offer training sessions and workshops to equip church leaders with new skills. These can include areas like effective leadership, conflict resolution, and pastoral care. Investing in leadership development ensures that leaders are well-prepared to handle their responsibilities and shepherding duties.

Mentorship Programs: Implement mentorship programs where seasoned leaders, such as deacons and ministry leaders, can guide and support newer members. This fosters a culture of learning and growth, helping to create a strong leadership pipeline within the church.

Example: Leaders may be encountering an uptick in church members who are experiencing interpersonal conflict at the church. A Scripture-based workshop that helps in conflict mediation, de-escalation, and empathy can help leadership better navigate these oh-so-inevitable challenges in the Body of Christ.

3. Foster Team Building

Retreats and Outings: Organize retreats or outings for church leaders. These events provide a relaxed environment for team building, spiritual renewal, and strategic planning. They also help strengthen relationships among leaders, promoting unity and collaboration within the church leadership.

Regular Meetings: Schedule regular meetings throughout the summer to maintain communication and ensure everyone is on the same page. These meetings can be used to discuss upcoming events, address any concerns, and provide updates on ongoing projects.

Example: Maybe your church leadership team has been through a tough season. High turnover, a failed campaign, or individual challenges can all make team feel tough. A team-building challenge that gets staff out of the office can help reinvigorate a sense of fellowship and fun. Try a rock climbing day, escape room, or even a creative workshop (ceramics, anyone?) to build new bonds on your team.

4. Focus on Spiritual Renewal

Personal Retreats: Encourage church leaders to take personal retreats for prayer, reflection, and rejuvenation. This time away from regular duties can help leaders reconnect with their faith and return with renewed energy and vision, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Group Prayer Sessions: Organize group prayer sessions focused on seeking God’s guidance for the church’s future. These sessions can be a source of encouragement and inspiration for leaders, reinforcing the importance of spiritual health in leadership.

Example: Try coming together as church staff to intercede for a local issue, such as homelessness or drug addiction. Praying for something that may not directly impact your church can help you rediscover the power and passion of prayer–together.

5. Plan for the Future

Strategic Planning: Use the quieter summer months for strategic planning. Develop a detailed plan for the upcoming year, outlining key initiatives, goals, and events. This proactive approach ensures that the church is well-prepared for the busy seasons ahead.

Engage the Congregation: Involve church members in the planning process by seeking their input and feedback. This inclusive approach can help identify areas where the church can better meet the needs of its members and the community.

Example: Host a “dream big” session where leaders of the church, ministry leaders, and church members alike come together to think about how your church can advance the Kingdom. Write down ideas, brainstorm, and stay open; remember that this not a staff meeting, but a time to rediscover wonder and curiosity.

6. Implement Sabbaticals and Time Off

Rest and Renewal: Encourage church leaders, including the senior pastor, to take sabbaticals or extended time off during the summer. Rest is crucial for preventing burnout and ensuring that leaders return to their roles with fresh perspectives and renewed enthusiasm.

Delegate Responsibilities: Ensure that responsibilities are adequately delegated during leaders’ time off. This not only provides a break for senior leaders but also offers growth opportunities for other members of the leadership team.

Example: Encourage those who are taking sabbaticals to resist the urge to be productive during the break. Champion true rest, and the sabbatical will achieve its intended purpose.

7. Strengthen Communication and Outreach

Revamp Communication Strategies: Summer is a good time to revamp the church’s communication strategies. Update the church’s website, enhance social media presence, and improve internal communication channels to ensure that information is effectively disseminated.

Community Outreach: Plan outreach activities that can engage the community during the summer months. These activities, such as evangelism and children’s ministry programs, can help raise the church’s profile and attract new members.

Example: A good leader listens; great leaders ask first, then listen. Ask your community about what they would like to see offered as outreach. Would a free carnival day, movie night, mentoring programs, or school supply drive be a blessing to your neighborhood or city? Ask residents what they need and want, and then seek to bless their socks off. The perception of the local church will skyrocket!

Over to You

Summer is a wonderful time to rest, relax, and have fun. But it can also be productive in its own right. Think of this slow season as an opportunity to serve and renew church leadership, which is ultimately an investment in the future. By focusing on reflection, development, team building, spiritual renewal, strategic planning, rest, and improved communication, church leaders can ensure that they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

This seasonal reset not only benefits the leadership team but also inspires continued growth and unity within the entire congregation. Church members will be inspired and assured when they see your leadership team is committed to healthy rhythms.

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