Episode Description
In this episode of the Lead Ministry Podcast, Josh Denhart sits down with Mark, a children’s pastor 66 days into a new role. They unpack how “front-loading with relationships” can compress the storming phase and accelerate health, trust, and momentum. They explore a practical, people-first playbook that any ministry can adopt to move from chaos to clarity.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the first 18 months of a role, this episode will equip and inspire you with a concrete path to build trust quickly and lead with pastoral presence.

Key Topics Covered
Storming → Norming → Performing—why most leaders get stuck and how to move through it fast
A 50-minute one-on-one template that builds trust and surfaces “hidden gold” in your team
From bathroom duty to stage leadership—redeploying gifts through pastoral listening

Key Quote
“Take off the recruiting hat and put on the pastor’s hat.”

Scripture References
Galatians 6:2 – “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in love.”

Takeaway
You can’t shortcut time, but you can accelerate trust. Schedule focused one-on-ones, pray specifically, cast a clear ‘Egypt → Wilderness → Promise’ vision, and invite people into meaningful roles aligned with their gifts. Ministry speeds up when relationships go deep. 

Call to Action
We hope this episode encourages and equips you. Share it with a friend and stay tuned for more resources each week.

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