My denomination won a grant from the Lily foundation on sustaining pastoral excellence. This focus on excellence has been an interesting one for our clergy and churches. I remember one setting where the pastors of our churches wanted to strive for “effectiveness” rather than “excellence.” For me the key is distinguishing between “excellence” and “perfection.” Churches and pastors that strive for perfection often fail or fall. Churches and pastors that strive for excellence rather than perfection place themselves in a better position to thrive. Striving for perfection can be demoralizing, because perfection is impossible. Striving for excellence ought to be encouraging and exhilarating.