Exploring Shared Leadership in the Foursquare Church

June 19, 2026

Exploring Shared Leadership in the Foursquare Church

Steve Mickel | 2026

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated shared leadership in The Foursquare Church. While an increasing number of studies exist regarding shared leadership in secular organizations, very little research exists regarding the relationship between shared leadership theory and leadership in the ecclesial context. I utilized a multicase study approach of three shared leadership teams serving within their local Foursquare churches to ascertain the shared leadership experiences within Foursquare churches in the United States. Data collection revealed how the participants experienced shared leadership and the strategies employed. The qualitative analysis discovered eight themes that answered the research question: What is the shared leadership experience within three Foursquare churches where shared leadership was intentionally practiced? Themes included (a) diversity in age and life experience, (b) collaborative senior pastor, (c) inclusiveness in decision making, (d) increased collaboration, (e) better decision making, (f) communication challenges, (g) interpersonal dynamics, and (h) decision-making inefficiencies. Furthermore, I found a deeper understanding regarding the “hows” of shared leadership within local Foursquare churches, as leadership teams implemented shared leadership principles that contrasted with hierarchical leadership practices. Findings provide ecclesial leaders with a foundation for implementing shared leadership in their context, including six recommendations: (a) practice collaborative leadership, (b) intentionally develop diverse teams, (c) include trusted leaders in decision making, (d) establish consistent communication practices, (e) foster emotional and spiritual health, and (f) define a robust theology of shared leadership. The significance of this qualitative research study is that it offers insights into shared leadership practices within The Foursquare Church and provides avenues for future studies that contribute to the scholarly work concerning shared leadership.

Keywords: ecclesial, Foursquare, qualitative, shared leadership

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