Linda M. Christians

Creating Team Leadership: Theory, Theology, Strategic Plan Linda M. Christians

This work is a pilot program developed for St. Luke's United Methodist Church, a large church whose ministries and programs are organized in a four-part structure, each known as a commission. Leading a group of individuals who serve as ministry coordinators for the commission, known as the Discipleship Commission, into a team-based leadership model is an ongoing process which requires time and energy for establishing relationships built on trust. The program is designed to impact the church leadership, both lay and staff, throughout the remaining commissions. Theological reflection provides a foundation for this work. Transformational Leadership and Servant Leadership theories are explored and provide scholarly support for this leadership transition. The transition necessitates a strategic plan. In addition, the ministry context and denominational influences are addressed as they impact the leadership transition.