Effective ministerial style as perceived by denominational leadership

Abstract

Defining criteria for ministerial effectiveness has presented researchers with numerous methodological and definitional problems. Global measures of effectiveness lack the situational specificity necessary to be readily applicable to unique churches or congregations. This study compared the definition of effective ministerial style between denominational supervisors and senior ministers of the California-Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church in an effort to see whether there were modal expectations for this particular group. Utilizing the Job Perception Inventory (John Thomas Group, 1986), 20 job performance variables were assessed. No significant difference was found between the profiles generated by the two groups. Both groups described the ideal ministerial style as that of a generalist, as opposed to a specialist, with a flexible leadership style, making extensive use of participation and direction. Further research is indicated. Finding a modal profile of performance expectations makes it possible to determine whether the effectiveness of individual pastors is a function of their identification with these criteria.