In an era marked by rapid change, intense competition for resources and increasing complexity, collaboration in ministry is no longer optional — it’s essential. The challenges we face in our communities and congregations cannot be met with isolated efforts or siloed leadership. It’s time to cultivate deeper relationships so we can strive together for the sake of God’s mission.
Collaboration is built into our theological narrative. The communal nature of the Trinity and the interdependence of the body of Christ bear witness to the ways God calls us to live and work together. The gift for leaders is that collaboration also fosters creativity, resilience and sustainability. It allows congregations to pool resources, share wisdom and avoid burnout.
Despite its benefits, collaboration can be difficult. As Richard Topping points out in one of this week’s resources, education in the West— including theological education— trains us to be suspicious of other people’s motives and assumptions. In addition, many congregational leaders operate in cultures that value autonomy and individual achievement. Turf wars, fear of losing control and lack of trust can hinder cooperative efforts.
To overcome these barriers, leaders must cultivate humility, curiosity and a commitment to shared purpose. Many churches are in the process of preparing next year’s budget. At its best, this annual exercise reflects a congregation’s unity and shared vision. The budget committee allocates resources to move the entire congregation toward God’s purpose. However, when ministries and staff see each other as competitors, the result can be a budget that wastes money and performs far below the church’s potential.
Imagine a congregation where leaders listen deeply, share power and celebrate each other’s gifts. Such communities are not only more effective; they are more faithful. As you consider your own leadership context, ask: Where is collaboration already happening? Where is it needed? What small steps could you take to foster a more connected and cooperative culture?
Resources
A church and health center collaborate to provide care for people with substance use disorder
The trust built by a church in Galveston, Texas, is translating into better access to treatment at a free clinic staffed by health care providers and housed in former Sunday school classrooms.
By Lindsay Peyton
How some churches offer professional counseling to congregants, letting overextended pastors focus on spiritual guidance
After faith leaders said they didn’t have the resources to meet the growing need for mental health services, a charity offered a cost-effective way for churches to provide counseling to staff and members.
By Melissa Kuipers
Collaboration requires that I love and trust my neighbor. Theological training makes that difficult
Western theological training promotes a hermeneutic of suspicion that can erode the trust required for collaboration, writes the president of Vancouver School of Theology.
By Richard Topping
Facts & Faith Fridays bridges science and faith to host conversations about health
Conversations that began in the pandemic continue as faith and health leaders tackle a variety of health issues, with a focus on the Black community, writes the faith liaison for the program at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.
By Rachel Pierce
Before you go
We know what collaboration is, but how do we do it? I suggest you begin with prayerful discernment around mission and values. Invite diverse stakeholders — staff, lay leaders, ministry partners — to contribute to the vision. When people feel ownership of the mission, they are more likely to work together.
Second, establish a pattern of transparent communication. Do whatever it takes to keep everyone informed. If you’re wondering about how to collaborate with your community, explore asset mapping. Identify and connect with the gifts, passions and resources in proximity to the church. Convene people to discern what you might accomplish by working cooperatively.
Finally, make sure people have the tools to handle conflict. It’s not always easy to form partnerships, but the reward is worth the effort. When we do good work together, we more fully live into God’s vision of reconciliation and renewal.
You can always reach me and the Alban Weekly team at alban@duke.edu. Until next week, keep leading!
Prince R. Rivers
Editor, Alban at Duke Divinity