In this episode, Dr. Peter Bunton returns to the studio to talk about his book titled Succeeding at Succession: Founder and Leadership Succession in Christian Organizations and Movements. Peter and Larry delve into a range of topics, such as founder syndrome, mission drift, and routinization. Drawing from his extensive research, personal experience, and insight, Peter provides practical wisdom on how to approach succession in a healthy and honoring way.

Quotable Quotes:

  • “Sometimes founder succession can be a bit more difficult than other kinds of succession.”
  • “In a Christian movement, or church network, it’s not a business. We build with relationships. It’s not a bureaucratic function.”
  • “Succession is inevitable.”

Highlights:

  • Mission drift happens when an organization shifts away from its founding purpose.
  • In a succession process, routinization—although often needed—has the potential to become overly bureaucratic.
  • A denomination often starts out as a movement but can gradually shift into routinization.
  • Many founders struggle to release their ministry or organization to a new leader.
  • It is important to respect and honor the culture you are working with and navigate the succession process accordingly.
  • Take time to make tacit (unspoken) knowledge spoken.

Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Related Resources:

For more information about Larry Kreider, his books, daily devotionals, small-group resources, or other teachings, visit larrykreider.com.

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