Jonathan Smith On Nurturing Change in Churches with Compassion, Embracing the Vitality of Pruning for Church Growth, and Recognizing the Essential Role of Spiritual Mentors

The Pastorate Podcast

Leading Through Change: Navigating Transitions in Church Leadership

Change is inevitable in both personal growth and church leadership—but how can leaders navigate transition seasons while fostering healthy growth and embracing the next generation?

In this episode, Jonathan Smith, a seasoned church leader with 30 years of experience, joins Jason Ballard to share his leadership journey—from planting a church at 23 to guiding an established congregation through change. With wisdom, innovation, and a heart for the Church in Canada, Jonathan unpacks how to lead with vision, listen well, and create space for new generations to step into leadership.

Jonathan shares about:

• How to lead through seasons of transition with wisdom and clarity

• The importance of intergenerational leadership and learning from mentors

• Practical insights on fostering innovation in church leadership

• Creating healthy team dynamics and empowering the next generation

We hope this conversation equips and encourages you as you lead in times of change.

Biography

Jonathan has over 30 years of leadership and pastoral experience - leading churches in Halifax, Montreal and Toronto. He has been a church planter, Lead Pastor and thought leader in the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. Jonathan is married to Shelly and has three young children. His ministry has been marked by innovative strategies and an emphasis on team development and change management.

Partners

We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.

Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bible Course⁠⁠⁠.

Guest Notes

• ⁠⁠One Church

Show Notes:

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