One of the most daunting tasks that a pastor will ever face is leading his congregation to the future he will not see. It is a reality that no leader wants to admit exists, but whether they like it or not, they will all have to face it one way or another. Bryant Wright, the former long-term pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, faced this issue. After decades of serving his church, the Lord led Bryant to carry out a succession plan. This book captures that journey from the first conversations about stepping down to the final sermon he preached.
Succession discusses this journey in a way that shows the leadership of an experienced pastor, the wisdom of a knowledgeable shepherd, and the humility of an obedient servant. This book not only displays the heart of a man who loved and led his church well, but also serves as a model for those preparing for the most difficult task they will ever face.
About the Author :
Bryant Wright served in Southern Baptist life as both a pastor and SBC president before becoming the first President of Send Relief in 2020. He retired as the founding Senior Pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, Georgia, on December 15, 2019, where he pastored for 38 years.
Bryant is a straightforward communicator who uniquely connects God's unchanging truth with a diverse culture through compelling and creative teaching. In addition to his presidential duties at Send Relief, Wright serves as founder and chairman of Right From the Heart Ministries, a media ministry with an international presence, and continues to mentor younger pastors through this platform. He and his wife, Anne, live in Marietta and have three grown sons, three daughters-in-law and seven grandchildren.
Review :
Every pastor is an interim pastor. Our role is to shepherd God's people until He calls us home or to a new ministry assignment. Many resources are available on beginning a ministry assignment; however, few have been written on how to transition out of one. Writing from experience, Bryant Wright shares the steps he and his leadership team took for a seamless passing of the baton to the next pastor. Succession is more than a manual for transition. It's a game plan for advancing the kingdom of God long after you're gone.
Robby Gallaty, pastor, Long Hollow Church and author of Recovered and Replicate Bryant writes with the vision of a senior Christian statesman and the wisdom of a long-time, faithful shepherd of God's people. Bryant is one of the most effective and Christ-like leaders I've ever known, and a lifetime of experience shines forth from this book. This book offers an up-close and personal look at how Bryant and his team handled this difficult process with grace and skill.
J.D. Greear, pastor at The Summit Church
Succession in the Bible brings comfort as we realize the ministry will continue and be strengthened. From Moses to Joshua and Paul to Timothy the biblical leadership baton is passed. Unfortunately, in today's ministry world the likelihood of concern outweighs comfort. It doesn't have to be that way. Let Bryant take you on an important and well-done journey of Succession.
Gregg Matte, pastor of Houston's First Baptist Church and author of Capture the Moment devotional
Bryant Wright is one of those rare individuals who always seems to just get it right and do it right. He pulled off one of the most difficult feats for a leader, which is a successful succession process. Leaders from every walk of life should get this book and devour it! They will be glad they did, and I say that right from my heart!
James Merritt, senior pastor at Cross Pointe Church
Succession is a must read for any church leadership facing the challenge of moving from one pastor to the next. It is an enjoyable, easy read, filled with great wisdom and insight. Any church's pastoral succession will be far more successful by having its leadership read this book.
Randy Pope, founding pastor of Perimeter Church and president of Life on Life Ministries
It has been a privilege to witness the wisdom and practical insight of this book as I watched my dad prayerfully approach succession with the desire to finish strong and prepare the church for even greater days after his pastoral leadership had come to an end. Johnson Ferry stands out as a beautiful example of succession done right! As a pastor who has experienced succession on the receiving side of this conversation, I highly recommend this book to those who are seeking to finish strong and those who are seeking to build on the legacy they have received.
George Wright, senior pastor at Shades Mountain Baptist Church
