Toolbox For Faith

One of my members, John Halfacre who is a retired elementary school principal, sent me a copy of an article giving practical hints for principals that he was sending to a national publication. Ironically, most of what he wrote could also apply to pastors and key church leaders.

His first suggestion was “Remove ‘Principal Parking’ signs.” You probably heard my “amen” when I read it although I was thinking of “Pastor Parking Only” signs that were at three churches I served. One church had even gone to the mayor and city council to have an official sign placed on a side street next to the building. I was very uncomfortable with the concept and asked that all be removed.

John Halfacre explained his rationale for removing the sign succinctly. “I always believed that a special parking space for me created a pedestal of artificial importance and was somehow inconsistent with the concept of servant leadership. I chose the parking space that was the furthest from the building. It’s a seemingly small gesture, but I think it sends a message of humility, respect, and appreciation to other members of the school family.’ The same goes for the other members of the church family. Great advice, John!