Reflecting Back 5+ Years After a Sr. Leader Transition with Executive Pastor Kevin Cook
May 19, 2022
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Executive Pastor Kevin Cook reflects on his journey from public accounting to ministry at Cross Point Church. He shares insights on personal growth, leadership transitions, and connecting with God. Topics include soul care, faith, prayer, and building a new leadership team.
Leaders should assess readiness to stay or depart using resources like 'When to Leave' and 'Before You Go'.
Building support systems and nurturing a culture of spiritual care are crucial for church leadership.
Deep dives
Navigating Church Transition Decisions
Deciding when to move on from a current church can be a challenging and often unaddressed topic. The lack of resources for pastors in this area prompted the introduction of valuable eBooks, 'When to Leave' and 'Before You Go,' aimed at assisting ministry leaders assess their readiness to stay or depart. These resources offer insights into crucial questions surrounding ministry longevity and transition, aiding leaders in navigating complex decision-making processes.
Crosspoint Church Transition Story
Crosspoint Church, led by Executive Pastor Kevin Cook, underwent a significant transition following the unexpected departure of their senior pastor in 2016. Despite initial challenges, including a 25% attendance and giving decline, the church experienced a period of growth under Pastor Kevin's leadership, emphasizing fervent prayer and spiritual discernment. Through intentional communication with the church community and a focus on unity and soul care, the church flourished amidst hardships, like a tornado and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leadership Pressure and Building Support Systems
Crosspoint's journey highlighted the pressures faced by lead pastors and the importance of building adequate support systems. Executive Pastor Cook reflected on the need for a collaborative approach in ministry leadership, focusing on sustained prayer, team unity, and humble support for church leaders. By nurturing a culture of spiritual care, effective communication, and shared responsibility, churches can navigate transitions and challenges while upholding a strong foundation in faith and community.
Embracing Present Faithfulness and Future Unknowns
Amidst the evolving landscape of church leadership, Executive Pastor Cook reiterates the significance of remaining present in one's faith journey. By learning from past transitions, embracing uncertainty, and seeking God's guidance in daily decisions, leaders can navigate present challenges while remaining open to future possibilities. Emphasizing the value of lingering in God's presence and cultivating a spirit of humility and trust, leaders can lead with authenticity, resilience, and faith.
Thanks for tuning in for this week’s unSeminary podcast. We’re chatting with Kevin Cook, executive pastor at Cross Point Church in the greater Nashville, Tennessee, area. They have six locations in middle Tennessee plus online services. God has entrusted those of us who are executive pastors with a significant leadership. While He may be preparing […]
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