“As a pastor serving in the ever-changing vocation of mission development the time that I spend with my ELCA coach is a source of affirmation and encouragement. My coach not only shares valuable wisdom and experience, but also helps me identify areas of opportunity based on my strengths. My coach helps me keep momentum by always asking, “what’s are your next steps?” I greatly appreciate the prayer and guidance my coach provides, it helps me to keep balance in my life and mission.”- Pastor Matt Shapton, The Community Church, Babcock Ranch, Florida
``My call to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament came after more than 20 years as a corporate executive. I entered my new vocation with confidence that my previous career had equipped me for my role as the pastor of a church congregation. And while my skillsets and work experience certain proved advantageous, I realized that I was navigating completely new territory. I engaged an ELCA Coach who, over the past 13 months, has helped to me see and apply my skillsets and work experience in new ways. I have described my coaching sessions as a two person think tank—a place where hard questions are asked, opportunities discussed, God’s desire discerned and a plan or path to move forward is envisioned. I recommend coaching to anyone in ministry desiring to live fully into their call.``- Pastor David Young, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Melbourne, Florida