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Introvert
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Special to United Methodist Insight
Being a pastor as an introvert may seem challenging. Big personalities and energetic leadership are often traits the world ascribes to pastors. Extroverted exuberance is often expected from the pulpit and beneath the robes, and the introverted called to ordained ministry may feel like they don’t belong. More than once, I have had a conversation with an introverted pastor who had doubted their call because of their booming voice, outgoing personality, or flair for the dramatic. But with the right approach and mindset, the introverted pastor can rest at ease knowing that their call is legitimate and ordained by God. Here are some strategies to help introverts thrive in their pastoral role:
Embrace your strengths
First and foremost, let's address the elephant in the room – or rather, the introvert in the pulpit. The image of a charismatic, people-loving pastor leading the congregation with boundless energy and an unending stream of witty anecdotes is a familiar one. But, as Paul reminds us, the body of Christ has many parts with many functions; there are other ways to serve effectively in a pastoral role. Introverts often possess deep listening skills, empathy, and the ability to build meaningful one-on-one connections. Use these strengths to your advantage in your evangelism efforts. Focus on having genuine conversations and understanding the needs and perspectives of others.
Own It
The first step is being willing to own your introversion. Authenticity in ministry is crucial, so you need to be willing to be who you are to find an effective way to pastor. Don’t stress, you’re in good company. There is compelling evidence in the Bible that Jesus was an introvert. He often went off to be alone after interacting with large groups (Luke 4:1-2, 5:16, 6:12-13). In at least one case, he took a post-sermon nap after being around a large group (Matthew 8). Extroverted expectations may loom large, but being willing to confront them with self-awareness is the first step to creating healthy boundaries for yourself and your ministry.
Find Your Platform
As an introvert, you may feel more comfortable expressing your beliefs through writing, art, or other forms of creative expression. Consider starting a blog, creating social media content, or participating in online discussions related to your beliefs. These platforms can provide a way to share your message in a manner that aligns with your preferences and comfort level. While it is unlikely you can stop doing things like preaching during your weekly worship service, you may find other more comfortable outlets to add to your teaching and leading toolbox. If you are cultivating meaningful connections, offering spiritual guidance with quiet confidence, and cherishing the depth of human experience in all its introverted glory, it doesn’t matter if you are doing it in front of a large crowd or through your own channels.
Practice and Prepare
Before engaging in high-energy activities like preaching in front of a crowd, take the time to prepare and practice your message. This can help ease any anxiety and ensure that you feel more confident when sharing your beliefs with others. When in large crowds like a church potluck or outreach event, create a list of the expectations you and others have about your involvement. Understand and respect your limits as an introvert as you balance the demands of your position. Set realistic goals for your evangelism efforts, and don't be too hard on yourself if you need time to recharge after engaging in social interactions. Create a mental escape plan beforehand if you need to take time to be alone and breathe. While you can’t get away from all the extroverted activities and expectations put on you, planning and preparing adequately can lower the energy toll it takes on you.
Seek Supportive Environments
Look for communities and organizations that value and accommodate introverted personalities. Finding a supportive environment can help you feel more at ease when engaging in evangelism activities and can provide a sense of belonging and acceptance. Regular visits to the library or creating routines of hiking in nature can put you in places to interact with others quietly and peacefully without requiring an extroverted presence. Remember that you are the supportive environment for introverts within the congregation, too. You understand the delicate dance of community and solitude. You can offer a compassionate ear and a thoughtful word in times of crisis. For introverts in your church, you are the keeper of their tranquility.
Redefine Success
We often default to numbers and attendance as our metric for success, but that rarely measures the true growth and discipleship in our ministries. We should more effectively measure success by the spiritual growth of the individuals in our church instead of the number of butts in our pews. We can also use that to consider successful church engagement as pastors. Rather than trying to engage with a large number of people, focus on building deep, meaningful relationships with a few individuals. Introverts often excel in one-on-one interactions, so prioritize quality connections over spreading yourself too thin. Jesus poured into his twelve disciples far more than preached to thousands.
Take Breaks
It's okay to take breaks and step back from high-energy activities when you feel overwhelmed. Listen to your own needs and prioritize self-care to prevent burnout. Though there are still extroverted demands on your time and ministry, that doesn’t mean you can’t take five and recharge. Don’t forget that Jesus took that post-sermon nap in Matthew; taking the time to recharge is not only crucial to your mental and spiritual health, it’s emulating the Divine.
Being an introverted pastor comes with its own set of challenges, but by leveraging your unique strengths and finding the right approach that aligns with your personality, you can effectively share your beliefs and make a meaningful impact. The divine speaks not only in the thunder but also in the whisper of a wounded heart, so embrace your gentle guidance and contemplative wisdom. Embrace your quiet strengths, trust in the power of your still waters, and know that Jesus the introvert walks with you, even in the delightful chaos of pastoral ministry.
Kellen Roggenbuck
Pastor Kellen Roggenbuck serves Stoughton UMC and teaches Evangelism and Discipleship at the Iowa Conference Licensing School.