Jamie Southcombe

Jamie Southcombe is a pastor for a Baptist church in England seeking to continue to grow his leadership skills.
I made the decision to follow Jesus around age 14. Having been brought up in a Christian household, I was taught the Bible and taken to church. However, it was at a camp that I understood, in a fresh and real way, the need to turn from sin and put my trust in Jesus. I remember after that praying on my bed for a week that Jesus would forgive my sin!
University was a key time, both in living on my own and deciding to live and speak for Jesus. I studied theology at a secular university, and instead of weakening my faith, this only solidified my trust in the Bible and desire to live for Jesus. Getting married and having children have also been key moments, and have further exposed my sin and need for God's continued grace!
I would like to grow and develop in my leadership. This time will be part of my sabbatical, providing a good opportunity for me to pause, reflect, and grow in my leadership. I expect to gain a deeper understanding of myself and hope to gain ways in which I can be a more effective servant leader for our church. These are things that I often recognise I need help with, and yet, with the demands of a busy church and family, often thinking about my leadership style and how it can be improved gets pushed to the bottom of the pile. Therefore, Year-Round Mentoring seems to be a great fit, as it provides time and space to consider these things in greater detail, all while being mentored.
I am the main teaching pastor of a church of 260 members. I preach God's Word, seek to develop and train leaders, and care pastorally for the church. I am also involved in directing the church's vision and am responsible for caring for and managing the staff team.
I have been a youth and children's worker in church and held a secular leadership position in an accountancy firm.
Being that I am at the start of my ministry, any investment, Lord willing, will have a big impact over many years of ministry.