Standards for Clergy Leadership in the Virginia Conference

The following standards provide a vision of what is needed in terms of clergy leadership in the biblical and Wesleyan tradition in the Virginia Conference.  Effectiveness in ministry includes “being”, “knowing” and “doing” characteristics, as defined below in terms of character, competence, and contribution.  This document is meant to provide the basis for conversation and feedback in assessment and evaluation of clergy. 

 

A clergy leader in the tradition of the Church’s Scriptures and Wesleyan understanding is a servant leader who displays effectiveness in the areas of character, competence, and contribution.

 

Character: Who a Leader Is:

·        Shows evidence of a deep faith in Christ, is earnestly seeking to perfect his/her call in Christ, and is aware of the responsibilities incurred in this call.

·        Demonstrates a passion for mission and ministry.

·        Lives out the highest ethical ideals of the Christian life, being a person of integrity, compassion, and courage.

·        Leads a spiritually, physically, and emotionally healthy life, balancing the demands of work, self, and family.

·        Is always developing a deeper biblical spirituality and practices spiritual disciplines.

·        Accepts, respects, and supports the doctrines, mission, polity, and liturgy of The United Methodist Church.

·        Is loyal to the Body of Christ that has affirmed and confirmed the call to ministry and lives as a person who has taken sacred vows of covenantal relationship.

·        Is trustworthy and practices confidentiality.

 

Competence: What a Leader Does

·        Understands the foundation and development of major theological thought of the Christian faith and the significance of this development for current situations.

·        Proclaims the Word clearly, passionately, and persuasively.

·        Demonstrates an awareness of call, spiritual gifts, talents, abilities, and areas for growth.

·        Exhibits strong relational skills, giving evidence of a genuine love for people.

·        Is aware of changing needs and leads others through group decision-making to meet these needs.

·        Models and embraces inclusiveness, demonstrating sensitivity to diversity.

·        Demonstrates lifelong learning and the continual development of skills for ministry.

 

Contribution: What a Leader Accomplishes

·        In partnership with laity, makes disciples of Jesus Christ; trains and empowers them to produce tangible fruits of love of God and love of neighbor.

·        Challenges injustice and encourages reconciliation as a prophetic leader and witness in both church and community.

·        Works with others to help the congregation discern and implement God’s vision.

·        Holds self and others accountable for the mission, vision, values, and goals of the church.

 

3/06