Pastoral ministry has always been a cornerstone of faith communities, but what does it mean to be a pastor in today’s changing world? Michael Plekon, a seasoned pastor, scholar, and author, explores this question in his latest book, Ministry Matters: Pastors, Their Life and Work Today.
In a recent interview with Living Lutheran, Plekon delves into the challenges and opportunities facing modern clergy and offers insights that resonate far beyond church leadership.
A Look at Modern Ministry
In Ministry Matters, Plekon examines the evolving role of pastors amidst shrinking congregations and shifting cultural landscapes. Drawing on over 40 years of ministry and academic experience, he highlights the ways pastors lead their communities through worship, service, and spiritual growth.
For those unfamiliar with his work, Ministry Matters builds on the themes of his earlier book, Community as Church, Church as Community, which analyzed how faith communities adapt to decline and find revitalization. While the earlier book focused on congregational dynamics, Ministry Matters zooms in on the personal and theological journey of pastors themselves.
Voices That Shape Ministry
One of the most compelling aspects of Plekon’s work is his inclusion of diverse perspectives. He shares the wisdom of renowned figures like Nadia Bolz-Weber, Barbara Brown Taylor, Pope Francis, and Will Willimon. These voices bring a rich ecumenical dimension to the discussion, offering insights on how pastors can navigate the complexities of leadership, reconciliation, and spiritual discernment.
Plekon emphasizes that modern pastors are not just leaders; they are listeners, reconcilers, and servants. In a divided world, their work is more critical than ever. He also reminds readers that ministry is a shared calling for all baptized Christians, not just clergy.
Why This Book Matters for Everyone
While Ministry Matters offers profound reflections for pastors, it is not limited to clergy. Plekon’s accessible writing invites everyone to engage with questions about faith, community, and service. His exploration of ministry as a shared calling underscores the importance of every person’s role in living out God’s mission.
In his Living Lutheran interview, Plekon shared his hope that readers will find encouragement and wisdom in the stories of the pastors he highlights. “We are all followers of the Lord, all called to ministry in baptism and gathered every Sunday in the eucharist,” he says. “And then sent out to stand up for God’s ways and to do what God does in the world.”
Learn More
To read the full interview with Michael Plekon and gain deeper insights into his work, visit Living Lutheran at https://www.livinglutheran.org/2025/01/what-is-the-role-of-the-pastor-today/.