"Leading Beyond the Walls" a Huge Success
Let me begin this perspective by saying that I am truly excited about the number of persons who came out and participated in the book review of Rev. Adam Hamilton’s book, Leading Beyond The Walls. I was also blessed by the number of people who read the book, even though your schedule would not allow your physical participation. During this two-day study and using Rev. Hamilton’s book, we were convicted to do a better job as a congregation in the areas of hospitality, membership intake and retention, financial accountability, serving in our area of giftedness and establishing church wide values and expectations for all members.
The book study was a first in a series of book studies with the pastor designed to empower, enlighten, energize and engage our members theologically and spiritually. The study also gives members a chance to continue visioning a preferred future for our church. Through these studies, members are able to see beyond what is. They can also eradicate the notion that systemic change is rarely attainable in downtown mainline congregations. Vigorous and stimulating dialogue and exchange takes place that allow members to grow; express their views and challenge the current condition of our church.
Unlike the “30 Families” gatherings where we are intentional about identifying our current congregational performance and where we would like to be in the next 10-15 years, the book studies gives our members a chance to be in dialogue with leading experts in various fields of congregational life. As we read and comment on the subject matter, we are able to see how many of the methods and programs identified within the text can benefit our congregation.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this process is the formulation of small group ministry within the life of our congregation that goes beyond social gatherings. It is the desire and prayer of the pastor that in time, these small group sessions will evolve into life transforming, DNA altering congregational growth. It is my desire that all members, especially our leaders get involved in these opportunities as we strive to maximize our potential and spiritual gifts to make disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world in general and in Franklin County specifically.
God is now leading me to begin a process of identifying the strengths and weaknesses of our congregation based on the results of Transformational Surveys performed over the last two years. It is my hope and prayer that as we grow in our ability to maximize our potential and perfect our process for making disciples for Jesus Christ, we can systematically change the culture of our church to reflect a dynamic organism on fire for God.
