If a knife is blunt it continues to be a knife but less effective and useful. It takes iron to sharpen iron.
The ABNWT cohort initiative is creating a resourced network of leaders who sharpen up through training, peer learning, and coaching on the biggest internal and external challenges of ministry. Cohorts are a catalyst helping leaders create the capacity to fulfill their calling so they can lead their church in becoming relentlessly outbound.
The following participants leaned in on the value of their cohort.
Lead Pastors
“The cohort has been a fountain of wisdom and direction as a new, young, and inexperienced lead pastor amidst the chaos and confusion of the COVID pandemic. Being pushed and encouraged to stimulate growth in our congregations during a time when it would be easy to simply coast, waiting for "the norm" to return, has been priceless. Top that off with the knowledge that there are other pastors praying for you and the value of a cohort becomes indescribable.” Jesse Skarra, Westside Community Church, Fairview
“It has been a blessing to be part of a cohort where we can encourage and strengthen one another. We discuss practical ministry ideas, focus on the important basics of church ministry, and listen to each other’s hearts. This is a place without judgement, but full of understanding, grace, and inspiration. (Proverbs 27:17, ‘As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.’) May we always spur one another on to Kingdom victories for the glory of God.” Naomi Keinzler, Northwest Assembly, Edmonton
“It has been terrific meeting and sharing with other pastors. I have never felt quite as connected, understood, and appreciated as I have with the cohorts. I have learned a great deal, and the personal coaching has been quite valuable and challenging!” Judy Marchuk, Wainwright Pentecostal Church
“Being part of a district cohort has been a huge encouragement and support for me over the past 2 years. Every gathering reminds me that other pastors are facing the same challenges in their lives and ministries and that we are not alone. It has also provided practical resources to help me lead with a greater level of confidence during these challenging times. If you have the ability to join a district cohort, I strongly recommend it.” Mark McMillan, Cold Lake Community Church
“I’m not alone. That has probably been the greatest reward of my cohort. To know that others are journeying with the same struggles and challenges and are trying to improve their game as much as I am, has been very encouraging. Secondly, It has kept me motivated to read and learn and that is a focus I must stay committed to.“ Todd Pratt, Emerge Church, Sylvan Lake
“The value of the cohort for me was to be in relationship with other pastors and hear what is going on in other churches. Always great conversation and feedback.” Duane Grant, Bethel Family Worship, St Paul,
Next Gen
“Peer mentorship is so valuable. Tons of takeaways of what other young pastors do and how they navigate ministry life.” Jaeden Glcokzin, Eaglemont Church, Beaumont
“It was enlightening to realize that others are struggling with ministry at times too. Being able to hear from others and what they are walking through has been both helpful and insightful. I appreciated people’s honesty and vulnerability!” Amanda Duenk, Hope City, Edmonton
“Connecting with other young leaders who I may not have otherwise met. As much as young leaders want opportunities to lead and grow, we all want seasoned leaders in our corner supporting and leading us.” Devan Green
“I have enjoyed getting to know other young leaders from across Alberta. It has been meaningful to network and develop relationships with them where it feels safe to ask ministry-related questions and develop as leaders together.” Amy Skinner, Journey Church, Calgary
“Delving deep into some struggles of ministry. The ability to open up to pastors, leaders, directors, and dedicated Christian role models is a gift.” Cole Mattie
Spouses
“It’s good to SEE the faces of others in ministry and to know that I have the love, support, and caring heart of those ladies. Also really appreciate Yvonne taking the time and concern to host these.” Joan Grimes
There are cohorts for worship leaders, administrators, women in ministry, and associate pastors. For more information and a listing of cohorts, facilitators go to the Cohort Page on the ABNWT website.
Bob Jones is the founder of REVwords.com, an author, blogger, and coach with 39 years of pastoral experience. Bob is also an Advance Coach with the ABNWT Resource Centre. You can connect with Bob here.