The Solo Pastor - Understanding and Overcoming the Challenges of Leading a Church Alone

Being a pastor is a complex and demanding role, especially for someone leading alone. The majority of pastors find themselves in this position, leading their smaller church with no additional professional assistance. The challenges are many, including loneliness, isolation, self-doubt, overwhelm, feelings of inadequacy, and a constant search for additional resources and volunteers. Where does a solo pastor turn for help and encouragement?

With compassion and plenty of proven, practical strategies, church consultant and former solo pastor Gary L. McIntosh steps in to fill the void. In this book he helps the solo pastor
· understand the strengths and challenges of the solo-pastor church
· develop effective leadership skills
· build and maintain vital relationships
· manage expectations
· spot and neutralize "bullies" who seek to control the church
· communicate clearly
· make the most of limited resources
· establish healthy priorities and boundaries
· and more

Gary L. McIntosh (PhD, DMin, Fuller Theological Seminary) is president of the Church Growth Network and distinguished affiliate professor of Christian ministry and leadership at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. He is an internationally known speaker and church consultant who has written many books, including The Solo Pastor, Biblical Church Growth, Beyond the First Visit, What Every Pastor Should Know, Growing God's Church, Building the Body, and The 10 Key Roles of a Pastor. He lives in California.