Shepherding the Shepherd
Another consideration is caring for the pastor or whoever is at the podium when a disruption begins. That person will be one of the most surprised in the room as he is focused on communicating information to the congregation when the disruption begins. We can all relate to the disorientation that comes when our thoughts are interrupted.
A point person should be assigned to shepherd the person on stage.
As we saw in Minneapolis, we are living in an age when what is happening in the room can also be playing out over the internet via livestream.
In a disruption, the people are not looking for dialogue. They want to steal the spotlight, elevate their cause and confuse those in attendance.
While Pastor Jonathan Parnell did a tremendous job of remaining focused on the Gospel and caring for his church family in the Jan. 18 disruption at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, we cannot all be sure we would react similarly in such a high-pressure moment.
A church should consider a point person assigned to help the pastor navigate the emotion of a disruption.
Remembering Everyone
While the disruptors may be focused on what is happening in the church’s worship center, church leaders know there are other things happening in the church building.
From children’s ministries to all sorts of activities, most church buildings are busy places on Sunday mornings.
Churches need to have a communication plan that helps those outside the place where the disruption is happening be informed that an emergency is developing.
Since churches range in size and leadership structure, it’s best for you to figure out the appropriate plan for your church family.
If you are wondering where to start in developing a plan to care for your church, I’d encourage you to get in touch with your local or state association. Generally, these folks already have resources and contacts that will help point you in the right direction.
