Inspired by the New TSA Airport Security Procedures
A Travel Free Learning Article, November 30, 2010 Edition
By George Bullard, Ministry Colleague with The Columbia Partnership
Voice: 803.622.0923, E-mail: GBullard@TheColumbiaPartnership.org, Web Site: www.TheColumbiaPartnership.org
The Situation
As the new Transportation Security Administration screening procedures went into effect during November 2010, I was on six airplanes in six days. That took me through several airports in four different states. I not only had the opportunity to observe the new procedures at work, but also to think about how they reflect on life—including congregational life.
When congregations are getting over a conflict, a less than excellent relationship with a senior or solo pastor who has now moved on, or an empowering vision that has diminished, policies and procedures to create more control are often put into place. Typically these changes are focused on correcting what was perceived as wrong or missing in the past. They place requirements on the next pastor based on what they did not like about the last pastor. They move towards deeper accountability with less freedom and permission-giving.