The Center's director, Michael Durall, will spend
two weekends on-site at each congregation.
This begins with the church providing information about its
ongoing life, including:
- The most recent annual report
- Membership gains and losses for the past five years
- The current operating budget and most recent financial statement
- Pledge figures for the past three years
- Sample newsletters
- Religious education materials
- The expectations of membership
From a review of the materials and telephone interviews with
clergy and lay leaders, Durall creates an agenda and schedules
a meeting with the church's minister(s) and governing body.
During this first weekend visit, churches are also asked to
schedule meetings with as many congregational representatives
as possible. Particularly important meetings include
the subjects of membership, stewardship, finance, and long-range planning.
Next, Durall preaches at Sunday worship
and conducts an open forum of about 60 minutes in length following
the service. Churches are asked to provide a light luncheon
and childcare.
Following this weekend, the church will receive a written preliminary
report, summarizing the findings and including specific recommendations
regarding congregational life. Once the congregation has had
the opportunity to respond, the second weekend visit is scheduled,
to help ensure that recommendations are actually implemented.
A final written report is then submitted.
An on-line discussion group can continue the conversation for
an additional twelve months.
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