Meet Elaine May, Your Congregational Renewal Consultant

What is a Thrive Ministry Consultant?

Ministry Consultants bring together a wide array of experiences and expertise that allow them to serve congregations with wisdom and compassion. They are practitioners, pastors, and seasoned ministry leaders who are eager to develop tools or serve as resources for the wellbeing of your congregation.

In what areas of ministry do you encourage and equip congregations? 

I encourage congregations to discern a renewed purpose for their church. God invites us to participate in his mission in the world. Every congregation plays a role in the redemptive work of Christ. Discovering our unique mission brings renewed energy, hope, and spiritual growth to our members and our communities. 

How did you come into your role? 

My unique understanding of the North American ministry context arises out of coaching ministry leaders throughout Canada and the United States, and leading in churches on the west coast, east coast, in the south and Midwest. Much of what I’ve learned about congregational renewal came through pastoring a congregation through a turn-around which resulted in a merger with a CRC church plant. While pursuing my doctoral degree from Fuller Theological Seminary in Lifelong Leader Development, I created Thriving Essentials, a leadership development course designed to align every leader in the church with God's mission in their church and neighborhood.

What brings you the most joy as you journey alongside churches and ministry leaders? 

I enjoy supporting pastors and congregational leaders who love the church and desire to see their congregations thrive. It’s an honor to journey with ministry leaders as God renews his church. My work gives me a front row seat as God faithfully transforms us into Christ’s likeness as we surrender our agenda for “our” church in exchange for God’s desire for his church.

How can congregations connect with you?

Visit the Thrive website at crcna.org/thrive/consultants