Check out the 3rd and 4th paragraphs from the bottom and the following excerpt only sun-sentinal link
It's unrealistic to expect that all church staff, deacons and elders would automatically be "friends" in every instance. Unless the term is being applied symbolically perhaps, but it strikes me as a bit strange.
Working together is one thing, but group-think is as dangerous and unproductive in a church as it is anywhere else.
Tchividjian was cautious about discussing any changes he might make at the helm of Coral Ridge. However, he said the Coral Ridge leaders had asked him to bring the "vision" he instilled at New City Church, a vision of "revival and renewal for all of South Florida." New City is also known for blending traditional beliefs with modern methods, mixing hymns and contemporary Christian songs.
The minister said he also values a collegial church culture, "where the elders, the staff and the deacons are all friends, not just fellow workers. They should all be pulling on the same side of the rope."