“Transforming for Mission” is a diagnostic process to assist congregations in determining their overall view of themselves as a congregation as well as their congregational health.  Normally an information presentation is given to leadership and congregation members that address two major focal points for congregations in this era. The first is the changing environment --“the post church” era, in the United States and the challenges that brings to ministry. This is the “Macro Issue.”  The second focal point is the position of the congregation in a “life cycle.” This is the local or “micro issue.” Each of these issues affects the health and fruitfulness of congregation.  An orientation to the consultation process is also presented.

The process includes a congregational self-study in preparation for a visitation by a Transforming Team. This team includes lay and clergy members who are chosen because of their maturity of faith and ability to listen for and discern congregational dynamics. The team begins on a Friday, interviewing staff in the afternoon and meeting with a “Focus Group” of non-elected leaders in the evening. On Saturday, from 9-2, the team meets with staff and leadership to identify the congregations self-view and health. The team then generates a report from their interviews and group sessions to be presented to the congregation at a “Town Meeting” on Sunday.

This report includes three parts. The first two parts reflect the major strengths and concerns that the congregation sees in itself and are observed by the team.  The third part includes specific “prescriptions” for each of the congregational concerns.  This addresses them in a positive manner and gives the congregation a path forward. The congregation is then asked to discuss and pray about the report for 4-6 weeks before voting to accept or decline.

If the congregation accepts the report, the CNH District agrees to work with the congregation over the 1-3 years that it takes most congregations to complete the prescriptions. That support includes coaching, specific resources, and accountability.

Contact: Ted Hartman    ted@cnh-lcms.org          (530) 333-4675                   (925) 366-2846 (cell)