I’ve never thought about leadership so much in my life.
Though it’s always been a subject near and dear to my heart, it wasn't until recently that it’s been heavy on my brain – every single day.
There are a handful of reasons why.
In part, it’s because of my work as a pastor, leading here at Northgate. I want to lead well so I’m deliberate in my journey to become a better leader.
I also support other leaders and pastors with the Alliance of Renewal Churches so they can lead well. Times are tough, and church leaders need a safe place for community, coaching, and spiritual nourishing.
And then, of course, I’ve been steeped in the subject due to our current teaching series, “Follow the Leader,” working through Paul’s letter on leadership to Timothy. It’s an important letter, jam packed full of instruction for those who dare to lead.
So, I’ve been thinking about leadership. A lot.
And the impression I’m left with is simply how much the world needs good leaders.
In a time filled with so many challenges, cultural division, and economic uncertainty, we need leaders who can bring hope, unity, and positive transformation. As we embrace Paul's teachings, many of us are striving to be those leaders. Northgate, it seems, is bursting with quality leaders.
I see it every week in all of you:
Kidnection leaders who pass on faith to kids.
Group leaders caring for families in need.
Missional living leaders who are looking out for the neighborhood.
Hospitality leaders who love serving strangers.
Interns who we’ve equipped and are now being sent to lead in other churches.
The list goes on.
Leaders who shine a light in the darkness and make a lasting impact for the greater good. Leaders who are living out their calling and graduating into new missions. I couldn’t be more proud!
That’s why Northgate’s Board of Directors and I are so pleased to announce the commissioning of 3 of our leaders as pastors. It is with great joy and gratitude that we celebrate and soon-welcome Dan Braaten, Rachelle Carlson, and Shannon Hepner to Northgate’s Pastoral Team.
When we commission pastors at Northgate, we are simply recognizing what certain leaders have demonstrated over time—a heart for pastoring. We are affirming the use of their God-given gifts by credentialing them, so that they may continue their ministry at an even greater capacity. Northgate has commissioned 5 pastors before in its 13-year history. At present, we have four pastors on our staff (Jeff Gustafson, Terry Kearns, Wayne Skaff and me).
We’re cranking out leaders like nobody’s business!
Let me share a little bit about what we see in each of them…
Dan Braaten
Pictured with son, Oliver.
In the book of 1 Timothy, we are reminded that a leader must be someone who faithfully follows Christ's example. Dan Braaten, Northgate’s Youth Director, embodies this principle through his unwavering faith and humble spirit. Throughout his journey, Dan has displayed a remarkable commitment to the Word of God, seeking insight and
guidance. His compassion and empathy reflect the character of a true shepherd who cares deeply for his community. With a servant's heart, Dan is dedicated to ministering to the spiritual needs of our youth and congregation, guiding them on their faith journey. Pray for Dan as he wraps up his last year of seminary.
Rachelle Carlson
With family: Cece, Zayne, and Jay.
Paul, in 1 Timothy, emphasizes the importance of leaders who are wise and willing to learn. Rachelle Carlson, Communications Director, exemplifies these qualities, demonstrating a hunger for wisdom and a teachable spirit. Her deep love of Jesus, coupled with her gift for communicating enables her to offer profound insights and
guidance. Rachelle's passion for lifelong learning ensures that she continues to grow in her knowledge and understanding of the Gospel, equipping her to effectively serve and teach our congregation.
Shannon Hepner
With husband, Steve, and granddaughter, Gabby.
In this teaching series on 1 Timothy, we’ve learned that leaders must possess vision, courage, and integrity. Shannon, Northgate’s Executive Director, embodies these qualities and more. With a heart for God's mission and a clear vision for the future, Shannon inspires those around her to dream big and pursue God's purpose. Her unwavering commitment to living a life of integrity serves as a model for others, promoting trust and authenticity within our community. Shannon's boldness in proclaiming the Gospel and her dedication to discipleship make her a true leader.
As we commission Dan, Rachelle, and Shannon as pastors, we recognize the important traits they represent, in keeping with everything we’ve been learning about Biblical leadership these past several weeks. Their faith, humility, wisdom, teachable spirits, vision, courage, and integrity will undoubtedly contribute to the spiritual growth of our congregation and the greater north metro community, for which I am grateful.
Because, again, our world needs good leaders!
Every summer we come together as a church family for a picnic and baptisms. And, at our annual gathering this year, Sunday afternoon after church, August 13 at Lake George Regional Park in Oak Grove, we’ll officially commission this trio. I’d love for you to be there to celebrate this significant milestone and extend your support, love, and prayers to these newly commissioned pastors. May their ministries be blessed abundantly, as they faithfully shepherd us in the footsteps of Jesus.