narratives of change and hope
DESCRIPTION
This is a presentation to the Presbytery of Whitewater Valley on September 12, 2009 to intruduce them to the power of stories in understanding how change and identity work in congregations, both to help utilize conflict and to enhance mission and growth.TRANSCRIPT
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THE PLOT THICKENS
Flourishing Church Consultations
Whitewater Valley Presbytery
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Luke 9:10: On their return the apostles told Jesus all they had done. He took them with him and withdrew privately…
1. Doing the work of the church
2. Telling the stories3. Reflecting
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The Bible is full of stories that express God’s Word
Stories capture our imagination.
We always want to know “what happened then?”
Plots thicken and twist and turn.
There’s always the next chapter—hope.
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Four unhappy pastorates
A new location, and three building projects
Yo-yo membership A growing county Playing victim: Blaming
pastors, blaming the Presbytery,
Designated pastor with a heart for stories.
The family life center…
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Pastor is working on structures
Establishing a Personnel Committee with written policies
Training the Session in Book of Order procedures
Strengthening the Session as leaders
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Lumpy rug More lay
leadership Better structures Need to know who
we are (Identity) Need to focus (a
clear compelling vision of mission)
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“The Titanic” (USS JPC) “A ‘Wolfe’ in
Sheep’s Clothing”
“Sliding Down the Mountain”
“Dynamic Church”
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When were you most alive, most excited about your church?
What do you value most about the church?
What three wishes would you m ake for the future of the church?
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Children and Youth (critical to future, lack of adult interaction)
Unity (lack of loving relationships, moving from “I” to “We”)
Fellowship (We do this well, improve communication, “think next size.”)
Worship (previously source of conflict, now enthusiastic and participative, moving from “me” to “God”)
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How can we become:
Like minded, Have the same love,
And be one in purpose?
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Entrenched leaders relinquish control
Community soccer league on property
Envisioning senior housing project
50 adults help with VBS
New worship leader
Attendance is UP