Others continue to seek broad involvement of laity in leadership structures but find that a revitalization of church life is eluding them. It is fair to say that in the context of the Mennonite Church there is a renewed search for a leadership model that will avoid the pitfalls of both the democratic and authoritarian systems of church governance. This article will identify the signs that show the need to refocus ministerial leadership, place these concerns into an historical context, and suggest some specific ways to correct the patterns of ministerial leadership in Mennonite churches and conferences. Several signs reveal the need for a leadership review. Perhaps they are most evident in the excessive uncertainties that accompany pastors within local congregations.
Pastors ask such questions frequently.
Local church communities also raise some disturbing questions. Virtually a whole generation of Mennonite scholars and church leaders participated in setting directions that ended up eroding leadership within the church. And beyond the local contexts, during Mennonite conventions, delegates reflect conflicting expectations in search of resolution. On the one hand there is a call for an autonomous congregationalism that allows each church to judge matters of faith and practice for itself. Churches wonder whether they need the conference or any level of inter-church accountability.