Often conflict in a church is solved by the congregation itself. If that fails, the Association’s Director of Missions or experienced staff member can bring the disagreeing parties to reconciliation.

       Many contending parties, however, still won’t settle their differences. So then, what do you do to help that church restore harmony, its testimony in the community, and its contribution to local ministry and worldwide missions?

          Professional mediators are expensive, but cheap compared to the alternatives: continued bitterness, strife, and eventual death of a church.

          When all else fails, call a professional mediator who knows church polity and practice.

          Joe B. Hewitt was in pastoral ministry for 39 years before retiring in 2001. Since then he has trained and practiced as a professional mediator. He understands mediation. He understands the inner workings of churches.