This episode of Church Ops 500 features an interview with Pastor Chris Kelly from Mid Cities Church, discussing how to stay in ministry for the long haul. Pastor Chris has been in ministry for over 20 years and currently serves as the executive pastor, overseeing staff and campuses at Mid Cities Church.

The podcast host emphasizes the importance of sustainability in ministry roles, particularly for those in church operations positions. These roles often involve constant demands and can lead to burnout if not managed properly.

Pastor Chris shares his background, describing how he came to faith in college and eventually joined the staff at Mid Cities Church. He highlights the importance of finding contentment in supporting roles rather than always aspiring to be the lead pastor.

The episode focuses on the first two of five tips for staying in ministry long-term:

1. Setting boundaries unapologetically: This involves establishing clear work hours, delineating between work and home life, and creating a culture of respect for these boundaries. Pastor Chris stresses the importance of working with senior leadership to set these expectations and maintain them consistently.
2. Establishing rhythms of rest: This includes daily breaks, weekly Sabbath observance, monthly "Days with Jesus" (full days dedicated to connecting with God), and proper use of vacation time. Pastor Chris also mentions their church's sabbatical policy, which allows for a six-week, fully disconnected break after certain tenure milestones.

The host emphasizes that rest looks different for everyone, especially for those in operations roles who may find fulfillment in productive activities during their time off. The key is to identify what truly refreshes and refuels each individual.

Both the host and Pastor Chris stress the importance of viewing ministry as a marathon rather than a sprint. They encourage listeners to pace themselves, set boundaries, and prioritize rest to avoid burnout and "fouling out" of ministry.

The episode concludes with a preview of the second part of the interview, which will cover the remaining three tips: following God's vision for your role, keeping your financial house in order, and staying connected to the vine (maintaining a strong spiritual connection).

Throughout the discussion, there's an emphasis on the unique challenges faced by those in church operations roles, including the constant accessibility expected in today's culture and the need to manage various aspects of church life simultaneously. The advice given is aimed at helping these individuals create sustainable practices that will allow them to serve effectively in their ministries for many years.

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