How to Talk to a Pastor

Members of the clergy are very busy and important people. Their responsibilities are many and they often have to take care of various ministry and administrative church jobs without help or a church staff. Because of this, they may often seem like they are aloof or out-of-touch with people. But, if you have ever tried to talk to a church pastor and you felt like you weren't getting anywhere, take heart. With a few tips and a focused mind, there are ways you can talk to a pastor.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Pray before going to talk to the pastor. Ask for guidance and insight into the things that concern you. Pray for the pastor to be receptive of what you have to say.
2. Write down everything that concerns you in relation to the topics about which you want to talk to the church pastor. This will help you be focused and stick to the point during your meeting.
3. Realize that he may not be aware of the things that concern you. Do not hold back or assume that the pastor is aware of your concerns; fill him in on it with details.
4. Ask another church administrator to be a part of the meeting as well. Another person will be able to add insight or verify facts. And, can even act as "translator."
5. Follow up meetings with the pastor in an email or letter. This will possibly help him remember the details of the meeting and possibly alert him to any facts that were left out of the meeting.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to the pastor on Fridays if possible. Fridays are relatively light work days for pastors. They are also a little more relaxed that day.
• Do not use accusatory tones or have an attitude. This will not set a good tone and your meeting will not be productive.