When most people think of leadership, they picture someone standing on a stage with a microphone. But some of the most influential leaders are the ones serving behind the scenes, helping others succeed.
That’s exactly the kind of leader Caroline Fogle has become.
In the latest episode of Leading by Following, I sat down with Chapin Christian’s Director of Operations to explore what servant leadership looks like in real life. Our conversation isn’t just about church administration—it’s about faithfully stewarding every opportunity God places in front of us.
A Different Kind of Success
Before joining the church staff, Caroline built a successful career with Target, overseeing store construction, remodels, and operations across multiple states. By every worldly measure, she was climbing the corporate ladder.
But eventually she realized there was another ladder worth climbing.
Choosing to prioritize her family meant stepping away from a fast-paced corporate career and into what seemed like a much smaller role at the church. She began answering phones and supporting day-to-day office operations.
What no one realized at the time was that God was preparing her for something much bigger. And He did such an amazing job doing so!
Leadership Is About Serving Others
Today, Caroline serves as Director of Operations, overseeing everything from budgets and HR to staff support and organizational health.
Yet she defines her role with remarkable simplicity:
“My success comes from the staff’s success.”
That mindset perfectly captures biblical leadership. Great leaders aren’t focused on building their own platform—they’re focused on helping others flourish.
When the staff is healthy, ministry thrives. When ministry thrives, more people experience the love of Jesus.
The Courage to Say No
One of the recurring themes throughout the conversation is discernment.
Good leadership isn’t saying “yes” to every good idea. Sometimes it means protecting the mission by saying “no.”
Caroline explains that saying no isn’t about being negative. It’s about making decisions with all the facts, stewarding resources wisely, and ensuring every decision supports the church’s mission of connecting people to Jesus, growing in faith, and sharing His love.
Stewardship isn’t just about finances—it’s about faithfully investing every resource God has entrusted to us.
Every Season Prepares You for the Next
The conversation reflects on some of the church’s most challenging seasons, including COVID-19, the transition away from the United Methodist denomination, and our recent Lead Pastor transition.
Looking back, Caroline believes each season prepared the church—and its leaders—for the next one.
Rather than seeing hardships as interruptions, she sees them as preparation.
It’s a reminder that God never wastes a season. Even the difficult chapters often become the foundation for future faithfulness.
Change Doesn’t Have to Mean Losing Your Mission
One of the most encouraging moments comes when discussing C4’s leadership transition.
Although the Lead Pastor changed, the mission never did.
As Caroline puts it, it’s still the same church with the same purpose: helping people know and follow Jesus.
Healthy organizations can embrace change because they’re anchored by something deeper than personalities—they’re anchored by mission. [And I just add a big, AMEN! to that!]
People Are Always the Greatest Joy
When asked what she loves most about her role, Caroline doesn’t mention projects, buildings, or organizational success.
She simply says: “The people.”
Over the years she’s watched lives change, built meaningful friendships, and discovered that many people have impacted her life far more than she could ever impact theirs.
That’s the heart of ministry.
It’s never ultimately about programs or processes.
It’s about people.
Looking Ahead
As Chapin Christian continues to grow, Caroline is excited about preparing the church for the next generation of ministry—from maximizing existing space to planning for future campus expansion.
For her, every new room represents another opportunity for someone to connect with Jesus.
And that’s what leadership is ultimately about.
Not titles.
Not recognition.
Not climbing the highest ladder.
But faithfully serving wherever God has placed you, trusting that every act of obedience helps extend His Kingdom here on earth.
I’m so very blessed to have worked side-by-side with Caroline for all these years — she’s simply amazing!
Love you guys! -Jody
jodyflowers843.org 