The Age Gap

As a thirty-something, new lead pastor I knew that what I lacked in experience I was going to have to bridge in other ways. Again, as a pastor, while there is spiritual authority that comes with the position, I am talking more on practical terms. I have known many pastors who had authority and man did they make sure everyone around them knew it.

I had to face facts, I didn’t have 10 years experience in being a lead pastor, and  in some cases I was given the privilege of leading those double my age. At Lifecentre we have made a commitment to be an multi-generational church. This is an essential element of our DNA, which means that, at times, the age gap can be quite large on either side of the spectrum. For us this means doing life together. My parents, who were the Senior Pastors for over 25 years are still active and involved. Their wisdom, vision, and energy is indiscribeable. I have seen too many leaders put out to pasture because they were no longer…something. While that may be necessary in some cases, a question to ask is how honouring is that?

For us, doing life together, generationally, is one of the ways we bridge the age gap at Lifecentre.

On a personal level, I think it is essential for you to be who you are, and in the spirit of that thought, this is what I chose to do to bridge my age gap when I became lead pastor.

1. Ask the right questions (you can't delegate your leadership) and don’t be afraid to learn from anyone, younger or older.
2. Have trusted people who can speak into your leadership honestly.
3. Information is king. Read books, blogs, etc…
4. Never use your age as a crutch, nor as an excuse for your mistakes.
5. Don’t apologize for being your age, and don’t let people look down on you for it.
6. Develop systems that structure growth beyond your experience. Leverage those within your sphere of influence.

I would be interested to hear how any of you have bridged the age gap in your lives?