Cultivating pastoral excellence: A lifelong journey

By Mary Jean Belrose, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President
Pastoral excellence is more than just good preaching or effective leadership—it is about embodying Christ’s love in every aspect of ministry. Those called to ministry are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of reflecting God’s grace, wisdom, and justice in all areas of life. True pastoral excellence is cultivated over time through intentional spiritual formation, ongoing learning, and deep relational engagement. People of excellence recognize their strengths and weaknesses but remain committed to continuous growth and improvement.

The Marks of Pastoral Excellence
A life of pastoral excellence is shaped by:
​•    Integrity – Living out personal and ministerial ethics that align with Christ’s teachings.
•    Spiritual Maturity – Grounding ministry in prayer, scripture, and discernment.
•    Compassionate Leadership – Listening well, responding with love, and advocating for justice.
•  Commitment to Growth – Pursuing continual learning, accountability, and self-reflection.
•    Community Building – Nurturing healthy congregations and relationships.

The Role of Healthy Boundaries
Healthy boundaries—emotionally, spiritually, and relationally—are essential to pastoral excellence. Without them, ministers risk burnout, ethical missteps, and damaged relationships. Maintaining pastoral boundaries requires:
•    Recognizing the difference between serving and over-functioning.
•    Ensuring interactions remain respectful and appropriate.
•    Engaging in regular spiritual practices for renewal.
•    Seeking support and accountability from mentors or spiritual directors.
•    Practicing honest self-reflection, acknowledging mistakes and weaknesses, and striving for growth.

A Call to Lifelong Formation
Pastoral excellence is not about perfection; it is about faithfulness. It means continually striving to be more Christlike, deepening relationships with God and others, and fostering communities where all can flourish. Excellence is about being the best we can be with God’s help, approaching every task with care, skill, and honesty.

People of excellence are influencers; they lift others up and create space for growth. They make people feel valued and empowered.

Doctrine and Covenants 163:6a reminds us:
"You are called to create pathways toward Christ-centered community. Be courageous and visionary, believing in the power of just a few vibrant witnesses to transform the world."

How Do You Define Pastoral Excellence?
What does pastoral excellence look like in your ministry? How can we support one another in this shared calling? Let’s continue the conversation.