Polity, Politics, and the Pastor: Prophetic Work of Succession Planning in the Black Baptist Church

• In Event: Saturday Roundtable Session 3:05 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Knowing, Reading, Leading, and Integrating (Table 24)

Abstract

Scholarship on succession planning has historically focused on the corporate sector, leaving a gap in the examination of succession planning within the context of the church. Considering the imminent retirement and unplanned transitions confronting Black Baptist church pastors, it becomes vital to explore ecclesiastical succession planning. This study aimed to contribute to the existing literature by investigating how Black Baptist church pastors approach succession planning while nurturing emerging leaders for pastoral transitions. Employing a phenomenological framework, the lived experiences of 14 Black Baptist church pastors from across the country were analyzed to gain insight into this research inquiry. Although the study's context revolves around the Black Baptist church, its implications can be extended to non-profits, government entities, and academic institutions.

Authors

• Itang Hope Young-Essien, Fordham University

• Gerald M. Cattaro, Fordham University