Jason Helopoulos hits a home run in his book, The New Pastor’s Handbook. I believe that this book should be on every reading list for Practical Christian Ministry in either College or Seminary. It will be especially helpful for young men committing to the pastorate.
Each chapter is full of sagely counsel that will easily direct and more importantly give practical perspective for any man (or woman) looking at serving in full-time Christian ministry. Helopoulos begins by shaping thoughts regarding the importance of a call to ministry. Having been in full time ministry for over 23 years now, I must concur that one’s sense of call internally and one’s confirmation of calling by a local body can together be stabilizing elements the Lord uses during difficult seasons. Every minister of the gospel will need these elements and the ability to recall God's plans for them. Helopoulos succinctly aids the young pastor by clarifying these elements and their significance.
Young pastors will need further counsel through the years of ministry. That counsel extends beyond an evaluation of their calling to serve in ministry. They will need encouragement in a number of areas. Helopoulos considers the importance of the focus of ministry in early years, the practice of reading a variety of books, as well as one’s priority to shepherd their first flock - their family. As I continued to read the areas of encouragement that Helopoulos addresses, I thought how carefully it seemed he had observed my own life as a pastor. I recognized that this work contains incredibly important information for a young minister that comprehensively addresses the areas they will encounter through many years of ministry.
Helopoulos provides practical wisdom to avoid pitfalls that will be encountered at points of one’s ministry. He addresses several specific topics that I have found to creep into the thought process and impact me negatively regarding my own ministry. This book will help guide one’s heart and and practice in positive biblical truth. This extends from practical preaching, the use of illustrations, disappointments in people, etc. These chapters provide invaluable insight regarding matters every minister will face at some time.
Lastly he concludes with a section on the Joy of Ministry. In these few short chapters he addresses the great privilege and blessings of serving in pastoral ministry. Though certainly not exhaustive in their content, consistent with the entirety of the book, Helpoulos succinctly highlights the greatest privileges and joys. These highlights will serve as reminders of the specifics moments particular to you and your own ministry.
In conclusion, I am so thrilled that this book is available. Over the years I have ministered to several people who were called to ministry. Unfortunately I never knew of a sufficient resource that would be empowering, practical, and comprehensive. The New Pastor’s Handbook certainly fulfills those areas in excellence.
