Date
5-20-2026
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Education in Christian Leadership (EdD)
Chair
Thomas Davis
Keywords
family-led church, founder, succession, generational succession
Disciplines
Ethics in Religion | Leadership Studies
Recommended Citation
Hines, Yvonne H., "The Procedures and Perceived Impact of Pastoral Succession In a Family-Led Church: A Case Study" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8340.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8340
Abstract
Leadership transitions in any viable organization are inescapable and complex. Pastoral leadership is a challenging task whether one is charged with an astronomical or miniscule calculation of individuals. Pastoral succession, one of the most significant leadership undertakings in the Christian church, encompasses the transfer of authority, an indispensable component to the effectual progression of the church. Churches in the United States are presently confronted with a contemporary dynamic in pastoral leadership, family-led churches. Pulpits traditionally filled by denominational officials or congregational elections are currently impacted by the automatic succession of family members as senior pastors in the family-led church setting. Revolutionary alterations in value systems, cultural modifications, technological advancements, and multifarious lifestyles have perpetuated a pluralistic alignment of church leadership perspectives and procedures. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to describe, evaluate, and understand the history, cultural beliefs, and procedures employed by a family-led church. This research study found, through observation, interview protocols, and a focus group questionnaire, a successful model for formulating and maintaining an independent family-led church. Findings exposed the impact of the storied history and cultural practices of the selected family-led church on the community over its 95 years of existence, and the contrasts between an independent family-led church and a traditional denominational organization. Guided primarily by Bowen’s Family Systems Theory, Greenleaf’s Servant Leadership Concept, Grusky’s Leadership Succession Theory, and Nepotism Theory, the research provided insight on challenges and advantages related to generational pastoral succession in church leadership, organizational progression, intergenerational concerns, and family triangles.
