Get to Know Our New Managing Editor
Starting in July, Christopher C. Thompson will be the managing editor for Best Practices for Adventist Ministry.
It was actually a minister, Ernest T. Campbell, who said, “The two most important days of your life are the day you are born and the day you figure out why.” While I am certain when I was born, it’s not crystal clear exactly what date it was when I figured out why. The fact is it slowly unfolded over the course of several years which has brought me to this point. Here’s what I’ve learned about myself along the way. I am a pastor, and I consider it a sacred honor to journey alongside people who are seeking after God. I know that I am a teacher at my core. I’ve taught on practically every level there is except pre-K and doctoral studies. I currently teach undergrad and graduate students at Oakwood University, and I also work with at-risk elementary and middle school students. For me, writing is an extension of my teaching ministry.
Writing is the privilege we have to chronicle those things we are certain we don’t want people to forget. I got my first book idea when I was still in undergrad over twenty years ago, and I will be forever grateful to Brad Forbes and AdventSource for publishing it in 2009. Now, numerous publications later, I am almost totally consumed with not simply writing, but also developing resources for faith leaders. They say the hardest book you’ll ever write is the one you’re writing right now. I am certain that this is true. I spent the last few weeks writing about the ways in which fear seeks to steal our divine purpose. I’m also kicking around ideas towards a book on relationships and potentially another one on the dangers of church marketing.
One of my students approached me recently with a question. As I did my level best to answer meaningfully, she looked me directly in the eyes and asked, “Why are you such a nerd?” I don’t consider myself to be that big of a nerd, but I replied saying, “I just really love learning.” I’m certain that the same principle applies to meaningful parish ministry and tools for developing pastors and church leaders. I’m constantly looking for tools that will help us to be more effective in service.
Speaking of books, I look forward to sharing some high-quality tools with you as I hope you will share your finds with me. And while we’re at it, here are a few of the ones that have really impacted me. Henry Cloud’s, Necessary Endings was a balm in a very difficult season. Gary Mcintosh’s, Look Back Leap Forward turned the light bulb for me in a number of ways. Keith Burton’s, The Blessing of Africa is a reference that will always be within arms reach for me.
In 2020, I moved back to my hometown to plant a church, so I really need new tools as well. In short, I live for this work, and I look forward to us growing together.
Christopher C. Thompson, DMin, is adjunct professor of Theology at Oakwood University and pastors Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.