Getting Off The Dartboard: Making Amends With Your Pastor

by Kayla Eastman
At the Youth Ministry Academy held January 7-9, 2016 in Nashville, speaker David Carroll shared his wisdom on how to remain in your pastor’s good graces in a session entitled “How Not to Be the Face on Your Boss’ Dartboard.” So what if you’ve already made a few mistakes and your face is now a magnet for sharp objects? Here are five simple steps to finding your way off the dartboard in your pastor’s office and onto the wall of fame.

1. Be Honest.

Chances are, if you’re on the dartboard you did something to deserve it. Maybe you didn’t meet a deadline or something went horribly awry with an activity you planned. It happens. The sooner you can earnestly own up to your mistakes with your pastor, the better your chances of getting off the dartboard.

2. Offer a Resolution.

So you messed up…how are you going to stop this from happening again? Your pastor (hopefully) has the best interest of your ministry at heart and wants to hear how you plan on improving it. Take time to write out a detailed resolution and plan for the future.

3. Ask For Support.

You made a resolution plan, now ask your pastor to help keep you accountable. This gets her in the middle of your ministry and helps restore her faith in your ability to do your job (and do it well).

4. Ask For Grace.

Everyone messes up from time to time. Asking for your pastor’s grace and forgiveness shows your humility and that you have acknowledged something went wrong (see step 1).

5. Give It Time.

You are human…and so is your pastor. He may need some time to process the anger, hurt, or frustration he feels. Be aware of that, and give time and space as needed.

How have you gotten off the dartboard?

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Kayla Eastman is a first-year graduate resident at the Center for Youth Ministry Training. She serves as the Director of Children and Youth Ministries at Donelson Heights UMC in Nashville.