A strategy of developing effective SDA ministers in South Ethiopia Field

Abstract

This project study was developed by observing the effectiveness of ministers in South Ethiopia Field of Seventh- day Adventist churches. The purpose of this study is to enhance ministers’ effectiveness and capacity so as to make them professional through long and short term training, workshops, experience sharing and through group Bible study. As a leader of South Ethiopia field for the past four years, experience shows that ministers lack the necessary skills to be effective, that is why this project has been developed from literature and personal observation as the lack of training is the problem of pastors in the field. The field should train ministers by sending school, by giving seminars, workshops and continuing group study of the bible in each zone of the field administration, and experience sharing. This method will bring change on them as the researcher applied for the past three years and six month. Enhancing profession, increasing their knowledge, attractive salary for them and their family at the same time will brings church growth.The researcher concludes his observation with recommendation and facilitating means of education for all ministers in the field by consultation with the leaders of the churches. For the past four years the field facilitating for some pastors means of education. That brings a lot of progress for church growth. The researcher applies seminars and quarterly selected study topics with related reporting documents enhanced participants’ understanding on how to develop effective ministers. The researcher appreciated each one’s participation. The project helped to create a favorite environment for participants. It mobilized members to participate in church activities because pastors got enlightened and equipped with tools to help members accomplish the goals of the mission of the church. South Ethiopia Field should encourage self upgrading by providing more resources to ministers to enhance their knowledge and require periodic reports to submit to their respective leaders. The field should establish a quarterly meeting with all ministers to give them the opportunity to share personal work experiences including the difference the training program has made in their churches. Long term training program similar to the one described in this study in order to keep the momentum and encourage the ministers.