Thank you to the 1,400 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 questions!
I hope readingÂ
7 Questions with Carol DeBlasis
helps you in your leadership.
​
Cheers,
Jonno White
7 Questions with Carol DeBlasis
Name: Carol DeBlasis
Current title: Senior Director of Women's Ministry
Current organisation: Calvary Chapel Melbourne, Florida
I have been a Christian for most of my life. My husband and I pastored a small church for 6 years before his death in 2003. I have two grown children. I have been in my position for 6 years, and love what I do.
.
1. What have you found most challenging as a church leader?
Learning to have a voice in an all male culture. I have learned that honor and submission are two Biblical character traits that bring favor and respect.
2. How did you become a church leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?
I have been in church leadership for many years. This position came as an unexpected open door. And I am so glad I walked through it!
3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?
I begin my day with a quiet time of The Word and worship. My staff assures that my calendar is current, as appointments and phone calls pretty much drive my day. My evenings are usually quiet, and end the same way they began.
4. What's one book apart from the Bible that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?
Simple Church by Thom S. Rainer & Eric Geiger. This book helped me to stay focused on The Main Thing (Jesus Christ) and to align my goals with God's Word and His Spirit. I don't get it right all the time, but simplicity keeps a lot of drama out of the Ministry, and my staff is much happier.
5. What's the most recent significant leadership lesson you've learned?
Coming from a very dysfunctional childhood, I tend to shrink back from confrontation, even though I am empowered by my Magnificent Creator. I am learning to focus on God's love for me, rather than man's opinion. My confrontational discussions are now bathed in love and Godly confidence. I'm not really good at it yet, but, I'm getting better.
6. How do you develop a healthy leadership pipeline in a church?
Communication, trust and respect. Since leadership is an ever changing environment, this process is fluid and ongoing.
7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a church leader so far?
A gal name Sue (not her real name) came into my office despondent over her current situation. We sat and talked, and prayed together, and both witnessed God's amazing restorative power. She left my office a different woman. Helping broken, wounded women is very important to me. Seeing God put "Humpty Dumpty" back together again, even after all of the kings horses and all of the kings men failed, is most astonishing!