Frequently Asked Questions
Here you’ll find answers to some of the questions we’re most often asked about our work—who we are, what we do, and how we support pastors, churches, and organizations through the Alabama Center for Pastoral Resilience.
General
Q: What is the Alabama Center for Pastoral Resilience (ACPR)?
A: We are a leadership development and consulting organization that supports pastors, churches, and faith-based organizations. Our work focuses on helping leaders cultivate healthier patterns of leadership and greater resilience in the midst of real ministry demands. We draw on coaching, relational insight, and spiritual depth to support those who serve others.
Q: Are you only for people in Alabama?
A: While we are based in Alabama—it’s in the name—we work with pastors, churches, and organizations across the country. Many of our cohorts and coaching engagements take place virtually, and we also travel for on-site consulting, workshops, and retreats. Our aim is to meet leaders where they are, both geographically and in their ministry context.
Q: Who do you serve?
A: We serve pastors, ministry leaders, church staffs, and faith-based organizations seeking greater clarity, steadiness, and purpose in their leadership. Whether serving in a small rural congregation or a large multi-site church, our work adapts to the realities of your particular setting.
Participation & Logistics
Q: How do I get started?
A: You can reach out through our contact page or email us directly at kent@acpr.consulting or immanuel@acpr.consulting. We’ll schedule a brief conversation to listen, understand your context, and help discern appropriate next steps.
Q: Do you offer both virtual and in-person options?
A: Yes. Our work takes place in virtual, in-person, and hybrid formats, depending on your context and needs. We work with leaders and teams across the country in all three settings. While virtual and hybrid options offer flexibility, in-person engagement often allows for deeper connection, shared reflection, and sustained dialogue.
Q: How much do your services cost?
A: Fees vary based on the type of engagement, group size, and level of customization. After an initial conversation, we’ll offer a clear proposal that aligns with your needs and available resources.
Q: Who leads your work?
A: ACPR is led by Kent Michael and Immanuel Marsh. Together, they bring decades of experience in ministry, organizational leadership, and consulting, and they work closely with leaders to support clarity, steadiness, and thoughtful engagement.
Outcomes & Philosophy
Q: What kind of results can we expect?
A: Leaders and churches who work with ACPR often notice:
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Greater clarity and confidence in leadership decisions
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Stronger relationships and healthier staff dynamics
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Renewed energy and purpose in ministry
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Less reactivity and more thoughtful response in challenging situations
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More sustainable rhythms that support long-term faithfulness
Q: Is ACPR just for leaders in crisis?
A: Not at all. While we often walk with pastors through burnout, conflict, and seasons of transition, many leaders engage our work proactively—because they want to remain steady, grounded, and effective before pressure escalates.
Q: What makes your approach different?
A: We don’t offer quick fixes or ready-made answers. Our work is grounded in Bowen Family Systems Theory, a well-established framework for understanding how people and organizations function under stress. Rather than pushing leaders to react faster, we help them slow down, think more clearly, and lead with greater intention.
Q: Is there a size or denomination requirement?
A: No. We work with leaders across a wide range of denominations and traditions—from small congregations to regional networks and national organizations. The dynamics of leadership and resilience are not confined to any one size or setting.
Q: Can you really help if we’re far away?
A: Yes. We work with leaders both virtually and in person, depending on what is most appropriate for the context. Distance doesn’t prevent meaningful work; it simply shapes how the work is done.
Q: How do I know if ACPR is the right fit?
A: Our work tends to resonate with leaders who value thoughtful reflection, honest conversation, and steady movement toward healthier leadership. A brief conversation is usually the best way to discern fit—for you and for us.