(From an experienced pastor):

Congratulations on your new appointment. I hope you find much joy in the role.

I am sure the recommended reading will bring you much helpful information. Here's some things that I found helpful in taking up my present position...

1. Be aware that the so-called "Honeymoon" period is really a time when your new congregation is forming answers to some important questions: (a) Can we trust this Pastor? (b) Does this Pastor like us? (c) Who is this Pastor? - what's he like as a person and what's he on about as a Pastor? They will derive some of their answers from your public ministry (preaching, leadership of meetings, etc). But the most informative forum will be personal conversations. So, I recommend you make it a priority over the first year to have such conversations with as many members of the congregation as possible. This also helps you to get to know them and over time you will develop an understanding of the culture, story and dreams of the church. Don't forget that God has been at work in and through the congregation long before you arrive. It's good to build on what has been going on before you.

2. During your early days at the church, take some time to write down how it looks to you - property, relationships, programmes, etc. We quickly become absorbed into a church and lose the opportunity to see things objectively. Share you observations with the leadership group and listen to how they respond. Fresh eyes can bring fresh ideas.

3. Before you become locked into the routine of pastoral service, set aside some time to meet people outside the church who can tell you about the local community. I found that Council staff, MPs, school principals, etc were willing to meet with me when I introduced myself as a new pastor in the area wanting to find out more about the area. (Make sure the church invites such community leaders to your Induction and on that occasion tell them that you would like to catch up later to hear about your area from their perspective.) I have found that making the effort to go and ask like this has built some long-lasting productive bridges into the community.

4. Don't be intimidated by the "Senior Pastor" title. Be yourself. Use your gifts. Make your contribution. Love people. Love God. And God will lead you and the church into the blessings he has for you.