Releasing a member of the staff can be one of the most difficult tasks a pastor or leader can be faced with.
There is a natural aversion to conflict that comes into play, as well as the nagging question of God’s will about the matter and how to discern that. Certainly this decision, just like hiring a worship leader needs much prayer and consideration.
Questions you should be asking yourself about the decision to release a worship leader might include,
Did you provide your worship leader a job description when they started or in the last year? You would be amazed how many issues could have been resolved if the job was clearly outlined in advance.
If the person is not performing the job to the expectation you have, have you clearly laid out the expectations for the position in prior meetings and documented the conversations?
It’s a good idea to have the person you are addressing recap the conversation back to you with their recollection of the items covered during the meeting. This way you can confirm that what you said, is what was heard.
What qualitative issues are present that are leading to the decision?
Is the person not able to do the job?
Are they not responsive to the needs of the body?
Are they not able to mentor and develop a team or others?
Are they not fulfilling the basic ministry requirements that have been communicated?
Have you offered training or guidance in their role in the past?
A general rule would be to give the person enough time to show they are capable and willing to make the changes needed in order to continue in the role. Since people are generally adverse to conflict, what should take 3-6 months to make this decision can take a year or more and in that time feelings are hurt, confusion abounds and sometimes blame is associated with falling attendance or an increase in complaints about the service.
Waiting for the person to come around on their own may be more negative than telling them, as soon as possible that you need to talk about changes that are required and a roadmap to accomplish those changes.
Most pastors are not musically inclined or trained and it is difficult to train or guide others in an area that you are not comfortable with.
If this is the case, you should seek out others that can help you develop your worship leader in the areas needed.
· A sister church might have a established and competent worship leader than you may be able to enlist the aid of.
· There are seminars and worship events held all over the country that increase knowledge and awareness of worship leaders.
· Paul Baloche has a great DVD program that can train worship leaders as well as just about any member of the band! It’s called Lead Worship (Highly recommended)
· The website Experiencing Worship has a great outline on how to develop leaders.
· Worship Leader Magazine offers monthly webinars dealing with different elements of worship and there are some year round worship summits that be attended either in person or via CC/Webinars.
If the decision is based on finances, be upfront with the person and let them know that is what is leading the decision. There may be ways to work around a tight budget that you have not thought of yet.