Pastor Struggles With Criticism From Retired Predecessor

A pastor has reported that criticism from a retired predecessor is removing the joy from their professional work.

The pastor, who has served a congregation for several years, stated that the retired predecessor helped recruit them but has since disliked their actions. The predecessor frequently discusses past methods, how those methods were appreciated, and what the congregation expects, which the pastor interprets as a message that they are incompetent.

According to the pastor, the retired predecessor has a group of followers who listen to him and remain constantly critical of the current pastor. While the pastor believes many people appreciate them, the critical voices have caused them to lose their spark.

Pastor Britta Bolmenäs responded by noting that leaders often lead in different ways, which can cause friction when a successor takes over. Bolmenäs stated that this friction can sometimes be so severe that good leaders lose their motivation or end their service.

Bolmenäs advised the struggling pastor not to give up and to lean on the fact that they were called by God and chosen by the congregation. Suggestions included speaking well of the predecessor and attempting a conversation to ask for their blessing and prayers. Bolmenäs noted that if bullying continues, the pastor should seek help from a chairperson or regional leader.

Regarding congregation members, Bolmenäs urged those who are dissatisfied to encourage and pray for their leader rather than speaking behind their back. Members with concerns were encouraged to speak directly with the pastor or contact regional leadership.

Bolmenäs also addressed older leaders, asking them to pray for love toward their successors and to use their influential words to do good. The advice to retired leaders was to focus on the positive actions of their successors and grant them the freedom to lead in their own way.