Surveys of pastoral staff repeatedly show that senior or supervising pastors consistently rate their working relationships with their associate staff members higher than do the associate staff members. Satisfaction levels follow similar patterns. In many cases, supervisors are not aware of or attentive to the concerns of their staff, and yet, these staff members are critical to the success of the church. Supervising and Supporting Ministry Staff is a research-based guide to the senior/associate staff relationship that is filled with real-life stories and practical advice to help readers negotiate their staff relationships successfully. The book focuses not only on the business mechanics of the supervisor/supervisee relationship, but also the full experiences of the associate staff, including emotional and spiritual needs. This helpful resource addresses congregations of all sizes across denominations and discusses a range or supervisor/supervisee relationship types.

Kevin E. Lawson is professor of Christian education and discipleship, teaching the PhD and EdD programs at the Talbot School of Theology at Biola University. He served as a church associate staff member for eleven years before moving to seminary teaching, where his research continues to focus on the needs of associate staff members.

Mick Boersma is professor of Christian ministry and leadership and the chaplain of the Talbot School of Theology at Biola University. He has served as both associate and senior pastor over his years in ministry.