Subtitle: Power With, Not Power Over: The Co-Pastoring Journey
Episode Overview
In this episode, Anthony Parrott and Tonetta Landis discuss the concept of co-pastoring - sharing pastoral leadership equally rather than following traditional hierarchical church leadership models. They explore what drew them to this model, what makes their partnership work, practical aspects of implementing co-pastoring, and whether this approach is suitable for all church contexts.
Key Points
- Origins of their co-pastoring relationship: How Anthony and Tonetta came to work together and why they chose equal partnership rather than a lead/associate model
- Biblical foundations: Examining how leadership in scripture often involves partnerships rather than solo leaders (Moses/Aaron/Miriam, David/Nathan, Elijah/Elisha)
- Making co-pastoring work: The importance of trust, complementary skills, shared values, and mutual respect
- Practical implementation: Division of responsibilities, keeping "short accounts," and ensuring the congregation understands the co-pastor relationship
- Challenging traditional power structures: Discussion of how co-pastoring can be a theological response to hierarchical leadership models
- Benefits and challenges: How sharing leadership addresses burnout while acknowledging the costs and complexities
Notable Quotes
- "I don't want to be a king. I don't feel like that's the Christian way." - Tonetta
- "I'm not trying to flip the system so that now my boot is on your neck." - Tonetta
- "There's no such thing as a self-sent, self-anointed, self-appointed leader." - Anthony
- "Accountability should come out of a relationship of grace and trust. And so often accountability starts with suspicion." - Anthony
- "The kings of the Gentiles lorded over them, and those in authority are called benefactors, but Jesus says, 'but not so with you.'"
- "Keeping short accounts" - Tonetta on addressing issues promptly
- "Both people have to have a particular sensitivity to the intersections that the other person brings and have done some work around that." - Tonetta
Resources Mentioned
- Working Genius assessment tool
- C.S. Lewis' The Four Loves
- Luke 22 (Jesus' teaching on servant leadership)
Connect With Us
- Instagram: @loam.fm
- Tonetta Landis on Instagram: @TonettaLandis
- Anthony Parrott online: @PastorParrott
- Submit feedback and questions: [email protected]