madi brock : my leadership pathway

As the NextGen Resident at Crosstowne Church, Charleston, SC, Madi acknowledges that she is definitely moving toward her future in ministry. I am extremely thankful for Crosstowne and what they have provided for me so far. I am gaining authentic ministry skills and experience.

If she wasn’t pursuing ministry, she probably would have continued her studies in Education.

For two years I went to school to become a high school English teacher. I still love English, but God has called me to a different path. Thankfully, she sees where some of what she has already acquired with teaching is applicable to children's and youth ministry.  And of course, she had previous experience at her home church, where throughout her years in high school, she was able to teach K-3rd graders on Sunday mornings and lead a small group of high school girls her freshman year of high school.

Residency has been an opportunity to not only grow professionally but also personally. Madi is becoming more self-aware. I have always been a people pleaser and perfectionist, and when I arrived at Crosstowne, I soon realized I did not “have it under control” as much I thought I did. I like to be in control and that does not exactly play into my favor when it comes to working in  ministry. I am not in control and thank goodness, because only God knows what's best for me and others.

Taking on a residency can be challenging, not just in the work that must be done but also in the newness and adjustment to a new community and location, not to mention stage of life changes.

I think coming to a new church where most of the people have known each other for a long time was difficult at first for me to find my place, too. It was not that anyone made me feel unwelcome; I just assumed I was “imposing.” Unfortunately, I tend to overthink, which resulted in me questioning my capability and if I was supposed to be there. She admits that she’s had some instances where her emotions have gotten the better of her.  Whether she was acting without thinking or trying to impress, she admits, I embarrassed myself more than anything. I think I still struggle with this sometimes, but I try to remember the compliments and the letters people have given me. Most of all, I remember that God does want me here, and He has proven that to me multiple times.

For others, who may be teetering on what might be their next best step, she’d recommend being open to change. I know it’s horrifying. God never promised this would be easy, and He definitely never said, “Stay put and be content where you are.” The Lord says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) Maybe your season of college or your career is over, and you cannot force something to grow that has dead roots. Pray throughout this possible change, and do not lean on your own understanding.

Madi emphasizes the impact of residency. My experience has had highs and lows like anything else, but I would highly suggest having a residency at your church. It is an amazing opportunity for not only your resident to gain real-life ministry experience and create great relationships with your people, but it’s also a tremendous opportunity for an outsiders’ perspective of your church.  You can create an amazing leader through simply allowing them to be a part of your team.