AJ Sherrill on Cultivating a Distinct Pastoral Voice, Slowing Down to Shepherd Well, and Rediscovering Christmas

Dec 16, 2024

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A question many of us face this time of year is how to guide our congregations well through the Advent season. In the midst of pastoring others, some of us have been able to enter into the wonder of the season ourselves, some of us are navigating the busyness of planning and executing events and services, and others of us are walking through a deeply painful season that can come with this time of year. Wherever you find yourself today, our prayer is that this time spent listening to this conversation will strengthen your hands, fill your heart with courage, and draw you deeper into the joys of this Advent season.

Today, AJ Sherrill joins us from St. Peter’s Church in Charleston, South Carolina. AJ has pastored in diverse contexts—from California to New York to Grand Rapids—before settling in Charleston with his family. He’s also an accomplished author, and his latest book, Rediscovering Christmas, is a profound exploration of the Bible’s Christmas story, helping us embrace the ancient wonder of the season.

In this episode, AJ shares about:

His new book, Rediscovering Christmas, and its surprising insights into the Bible’s Christmas story.
How to discover and develop your unique pastoral voice as a communicator.
The importance of slowing down to truly pastor your congregation where they are.

We’re so grateful you’ve joined us for this conversation on The Pastorate. May God bless you as you listen and enter into the wonder of Advent.

Biography

AJ Sherrill has served as a lead pastor for over two decades in churches across the country, from Southern California to New York City, and now calls the Low Country home. He holds two master’s degrees in theology and a doctorate in spiritual formation. AJ teaches courses on preaching and the Enneagram at Fuller Theological Seminary and leads workshops on spiritual formation and personality theory. Above all, he is a disciple of Jesus, husband to Elaina, and father to Eloise. On a lighter note, he is also a dedicated—though often humbled—Michigan fan.

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