We gathered on Zoom yesterday to debrief the very first R3 Gathering in Albany—and the feedback? So encouraging! There was a shared sense of joy in simply saying yes to God’s call to “set the table” for leaders. Honestly, I left a downright giddy.

We’re all part of something new: the Global Methodist Church. And together, we’re learning what that looks like in real life—in hallways, parking lots, classrooms, conversations, and organizational playbooks. The R3 Gathering is just the beginning, and we’re committed to keeping that flame burning—equipping and encouraging those faithfully serving in the second and middle seats of leadership in a local Global Methodist Church.

South Georgia, we’ll see you again in Albany next spring. North Georgia, we’re praying for a partnership for time and space this fall. Call me! Stay tuned for upcoming dates.

During our Rhythms workshop, we explored a number of questions about ministry life, about recruiting and training servant leaders, the best books to read, what does Confirmation look like, GMC curriculum, even discussed the antics of Susanna Wesley. But one, in particular, made the whole room pause:

How do you protect your name?

Trust is a big deal for the families we serve and in the culture we find ourselves in. I learned just last week about another incredibly fruitful kidmin leader who, through no fault of her own, left the ministry staff of a local church because a shepherd behaved badly causing distrust throughout the community.

So how can we, as leaders, to the best of our ability, guard and protect our name and the calling God has entrusted to us?

1. Build a Team You Can Trust

Surround yourself with servant leaders who represent you well—even when you’re not in the room.

Even Jesus had His closest three. Who are your “three”? The ones who show up early with joy, bring elbow grease, finish your sentences, and metaphorically speaking, would hide bodies for you?

Some call this a Children’s Council. Whatever the name, it’s a team of disciples who share your values and and the trenches shoulder to shoulder as together you love littles and their bigs to Jesus.

2. Practice Holy Habits

Protecting your name begins with tending your soul. This models for others that personal discipleship is not only possible, but necessary for sustainability.

In The Good and Beautiful God, Rev. Dr. James Bryan Smith reminds us that we become like Jesus through intentional holy habits over time.

For me, one holy habit I practice is a Friday Sabbath—and I guard it fiercely. One day each week, I step away from the work and choose only what reminds me: God is good, and I am His. The best part? My team and the congregation I serve know and honor it.

When teaching the Ten Commandments, I will say that “keeping the Sabbath” is God’s loving reminder: You are no longer slaves. I’m not God’s employee. I’m His child.

3. Plan Ahead to Build Trust

Trust grows when people know they can count on you. Planning 12–18 months ahead allows your “yes” to truly be yes, and your “no” to be no—just as Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:37.

Thoughtful planning communicates care:

  • Clear and timely communication
  • Well-prepared spaces and places
  • Wise stewardship of all resources
  • Intentional investment and the protection of people’s hearts and minds

When you plan well, you’re not just organizing events—you’re setting the table so others can step in and serve with a holy confidence and are more likely to say, “Yes!” when invited again.

A Question to Carry With You

Protecting your name isn’t about image. It’s about integrity, consistency, and trust built over time.

So here’s the question I’m still carrying with me—and maybe you will too:

How do you protect your name?

“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” Proverbs 22:1