The Presbyterian Foundation is pleased to welcome Rev. Joshua Kerr as a new Ministry Relations Officer (MRO) for the South Central Region. Joshua brings a wealth of experience and a passion for helping congregations navigate the ever-changing landscape of ministry.

From Witnessing Decline to Inspiring Growth

Joshua’s Presbyterian roots run deep. He grew up in what he refers to as a ‘very typical Presbyterian Church.’ “By typical I mean that early in my childhood it was a very lively, thriving congregation,” he said. “But then, due to specific events in that congregation but also the change in the religious and neighborhood landscape there was an obvious decline.”

This firsthand experience instilled in him a deep desire to see congregations not just survive, but flourish in the face of challenges. “My experience growing up has been fundamental to my perspective on ministry in general — I find myself very much wanting to go against that trend,” Joshua says.

Following a call to ministry, Joshua served as a pastor for a decade, leading both rural and suburban churches. Here, he discovered a key principle: growth often stemmed from removing barriers that hindered a church’s missional work. He witnessed how congregations, empowered to serve their communities, attracted new members who resonated with their vision. “The growth in the congregations almost always came from people wanting to get into the missional work and vision of the church,” he says.

Equipping Churches with Data and Candor

This experience fueled Joshua’s interest in the systemic issues affecting church growth. Joining the Presbyterian Foundation allows him to meet congregations where they are and guide them toward bold decisions that can revitalize their ministries. “I love seeing congregations embrace reality — the reality that we are not the church that we were 50 years ago – so, what is a reasonable scope of ministry that we can have now?” Joshua asks.

One of the Foundation’s strengths, according to Joshua, is its data analysis. This data provides valuable insights that, when combined with pastoral care, empower church leaders to make informed decisions about their future.

But Joshua emphasizes the importance of candor alongside data. He believes that “truth-telling” conversations, even when difficult, are essential for progress. By acknowledging past realities and embracing change, congregations can unlock new possibilities for ministry. “Just saying out loud and admitting that we are not the church or ministry that we were even 25 years ago can allow for a sense of relief,” he said. “Then the church has an opportunity to do things differently.”

Facilitating Change, Not Dictating It

As an MRO, Joshua serves as a facilitator and interpreter, helping congregations navigate the sometimes-painful realities revealed by data. He recognizes that change can be a grieving process, but also an opportunity for growth.

The Foundation offers resources like Project Regeneration, which guides congregations through strategic decision-making concerning property. Joshua presents these options not as mandates, but as a buffet of possibilities, empowering churches to discern the path best suited to their unique calling. “Laying these options out there gives congregations the opportunity to say which resonate with them, and which don’t,” he said. “These are paths that other churches have walked before them, and the Foundation has the background and experience to help guide them.”

Change as Opportunity, Not Threat

Change, for Joshua, is not a threat but an exciting opportunity. He finds his greatest satisfaction in guiding congregations through prayer, discernment, and information-gathering, ultimately leading them to a place of informed decision-making.

While change can be a slow process, Joshua is energized by the prospect of helping churches discover and embrace new avenues for ministry. “Many churches do still struggle with trying to see themselves in any other way than they have for the past 50 years,” he admits. “But it is also an opportunity to create a new future.”

“I see change as more of an opportunity than a threat,” he said.

Joshua’s territory covers Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. If you’re a pastor or church leader in this region, don’t hesitate to reach out to Joshua. His passion for ministry and his commitment to helping congregations thrive make him a valuable resource for your church.