RESILIENT LEADERSHIP

by Wayne Alcorn

I want to honour every local church and state leader who has been leading God’s people as we navigate this Covid pandemic. They’ve been standing on the frontline for months, bringing hope and faith in such stressful times. As pastors, managing our own emotional and mental stress is so important as we lead through this season. In August, I had a live Zoom conversation with Dr Robi Sonderegger about Leadership Resilience in Turbulent Times. We spoke about managing anxiety, helping pastors manage difficult people, and things we can do to care for our own wellbeing. Everyone has a Covid story. I am aware of the toll on people in this heavy season with so many things adding stress and anxiety – health, employment, vaccinations, restrictions. As ministers, we have to keep leading and loving and serving our people, when these issues affect us personally as well. Think back when you last flew on a plane (for many this was possibly in preCovid times). The inflight safety instructions state in the midst of turbulence, when the cabin air pressure changes dramatically, oxygen masks will be released from above. The directive is to put your own mask on first, before you help others. The health and wellbeing of leaders is so important at this time, as we try to help others navigate these times. I encourage every pastor to honestly assess yourself, and put your hand up if you need help. Have those conversations with mentors or friends that you trust. You are not meant to stand alone. We are in this together.

Wayne Alcorn is the ACC National President, and together with his wife, Lyn, pastors Hope Centre in Brisbane.