We already know pastoral ministry is intensely complex. To manage an organization, deal with individual needs within a multifaceted system, and to cast vision is an art, not a science. While being the "answer man or woman" can be gratifying to our egos, it can also be exhausting and draining.

I've had a coach for the last two years, ever since I began the process towards my own coaching certification. Since my coaching session is focused on my needs and agenda, my coach walks me through those places where I procrastinate, get stuck, lack organization, and need accountability. I've been coached in both work projects and navigating difficult relationships. I feel I'm a better person, ministry leader, and wife because of it.

According to the International Coach Federation, the accrediting body for coaches worldwide, "Coaches are trained to listen, to observe and to customize their approach to individual client needs. They seek to elicit solutions and strategies from the client; they believe the client is naturally creative and resourceful. The coach's job is to provide support to enhance the skills, resources, and creativity that the client already has."

Unlike consultants who offer you ready-made answers, coaches are thinking partners who ask good questions.

Unlike mentors who impart their personal experiences to your unique situation, coaches are mirrors who help you see what you cannot see.

Unlike counselors who seek to heal past wounds, coaches are present and future focused to create forward action.

An extra benefit of being coached is seeing how coaching skills can be used in your ministry setting. What if you could bring out the best creativity in your key leaders? What if they took high ownership of solutions and held themselves accountable for the results? Using coaching skills could make that happen.

Feel stuck in a rut rarely getting where you want to go? Give coaching a try!

For more information on coaching or to find a coach go to:

• www.metamorphosis-rg.com
• www.coachfederation.org
• www.valwoodcoaching.org
• www.thecolumbiapartnership.org
• www.glcc.org

Each coaching benefit builds on the previous one.

• Orienting around strengths: building on what you do best
• Clarity and focus: clarifying priority tasks and better ways to achieve them
• Confidence: in creating positive change
• Learning: in a customized approach
• Intentional progress: step-by-step success
• Coaching others: using coaching skills in ministry
• God-sized goals: accomplishing more for the kingdom

So if you have been hearing about coaching and still aren't convinced it's for you, "Christ-Centered Coaching" will give you the insights you're looking for.

"We came for a time of focused study and planning. The upstairs "quiet" room was an excellent place to accomplish our goals. The spacious room, ample tables to spread out, and refreshing vista outside - along with the coffee nearby - a perfect work environment. We are coming away feeling spiritually refreshed and ahead of the game."

"It's a rare treat in today's world of walls, fences, and borders to experience God-given hospitality. Thank you for welcoming us and for being so generous with your space. Once again, our family had three full days to become closer to each other and to God."

"We chose to come to Redwood Glen to spend time together as a family, to slow down and enjoy one another. We were able to do many things together as a family at our pace and choice which was very nice. Thank you for your commitment to pastors and their families."

Reservations for the 2008 Pastor's Sabbath begin January 15, 2008.

Two specialized retreats are being developed to address the different needs that men and women who are called to ministry face.

Make plans this fall to get away to Redwood Glen for a breath of fresh air.

• Tuesday, November 6th for Clergy Men featuring Russ Ikeda of Emmaus Ministries
• Thursday, November 15th for Clergy Women featuring Patti Pierce of the Well

Registration costs and discounts for early-bird and first-time Meta registrations (and inviters) are available on our downloadable registration forms for the Clergy Men's event and Clergy Women's event.

ALSO COMING IN 2008...
Our second annual Pastors' Conference - February 25-27, featuring Chris Gambill, Senior Consultant for the Center for Congregational Health.

Redwood Glen is located in the Santa Cruz mountains just 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean. We are an hour drive from the San Francisco and San Jose airports. For more information on our programs and facilities, check out our website at www.redwoodglen.com.

If you are interested in having someone from Redwood Glen or Metamorphosis staff provide pulpit supply, please email us at meta@redwoodglen.com.
Available dates for Joan Friesen this summer: August 19, 26, September 9, 16, 23.

Previous editions of our Metamorphosis e-newsletters may be found on the Redwood Glen and Metamorphosis websites.