Northwest New Lead Pastor Cohort

A relational, ongoing development pathway for New Lead Pastors in the Northwest District

Since the Spring of 2022, we saw the need for focused development for first-time Lead Pastors. In collaboration with Regional and Area Pastors, we created a format that blends training, coaching, and relationship-building—which resulted in the New Lead Pastor Cohort. Since then, many cohorts have equipped dozens of pastors across our District, and we’re excited to continue this valuable resource.

Questions? Contact Associate Supervisor Omar Lara

Email Omar Lara

Required training, support and coaching for all new Northwest District Lead Pastors

YEAR ONE

YEAR TWO

Continued training + relationship building

OVERVIEW of New Lead Pastor Cohort

The cohort is designed to support New Lead Pastors, their spouses, and Co-Pastors through the following:

#1 Cohort Meetings

Bi-Weekly Zoom gatherings (5 total) over approx. 2 months that include expert-led training, coach-facilitated small groups, and peer dialogue to help you grow in leadership and stay connected.

#3 Resources

Curated, practical tools you can access anytime to support your teaching, leadership, and day-to-day church operations.

#2 In-Person Retreat

A time to rest, connect, and focus on emotional and spiritual health while building deeper relationships with others in the cohort.

#4 Coaching

One-on-one sessions with an experienced coach, meeting three times over three months to provide personalized support, cover key leadership topics, and offer care for your well-being.

CLOSED

Look below for current + previous cohort sessions

FALL 2025

FALL 2025

Fall 2025 Sessions

Orientation, District Overview, Introductions, Support Systems, and Using The Hub

Speaker: Omar Lara


Best Practices, Evaluations, Team Oversight, Budgeting, and Church Council Leadership

Speaker: Tim Poetzl


Identifying, Developing, and Empowering Volunteers and Ministry Teams

Speaker: Molly Duque


Practical Tools for Healthy Communication and Resolution

Speaker: Dan Mundt