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Choices Within the Journey

Stay the Course and Remain Substantially the Same

What is the essence of this choice?

Choose to continue in substantially the same direction the congregation is currently headed.
 

Who ought to consider this choice?

Make this choice because:

• You feel the same direction is the best direction for the congregation at this time. No other choice has appeal to the congregation, and sufficient passion cannot be developed for a different choice.
  
  
• You feel that the current direction is the most faithful direction. Other choices would require the congregation to sacrifice core values it holds dearly and deeply.
  
  
• You cannot get consensus on a different direction so you must continue in substantially the same direction for now until there is greater passion for a different choice.
  
  
• You are aware that continuing substantially the same direction—if that direction is resulting in the diminishing of the vitality of the congregation—may result in the eventual death of the congregation. While survival of the congregation may be an issue for some, it is a potential reality the congregation is willing to face.
   

What are strategic change and transition issues to address?

Stay the course and remain substantially the same does not mean do nothing.

It is still important for the congregation to have a visualization of the future story of the congregation both in the short-term of three to eighteen months, and the long-term of ten to twelve years.

Typically moving toward more diversity is not a change and transition issue these congregations address.

Rather, they seek additional harmony and homogeneity.

Therefore, a scenario and ultimately a future story should be developed.
 

What are essential resources to have available to embrace this choice?

Readiness, including a sense of urgency, to continue embracing the current ministry patterns of the congregation.

Case studies to observe and from which to learn. It is essential to discover and dialogue with congregation who have made this choice at least five years ago.

Knowledge of the strategic actions called for by this choice.

• There must be a context or target group for the congregation that is demographically congruent with the membership of the congregation, so that they have new people to attract to their journey as a congregation.
  
  
• The congregation must not have forgotten how to attract new people to their spiritual strategic journey as a congregation, and to a Christ-centric, faith-based journey as an individual.

A vision incorporated into a future story of the congregation’s life if it remains the same. One characteristic that is an essential resource is Hope. Present within the leadership of the congregation must be a positive sense of hope concerning the future.

A minimum critical mass of leadership.

There must be a minimum of 21 adult leaders who can provide the passion, spirituality, leadership, and strategic knowledge necessary to lead this congregation forward. Without this minimum number for a leadership community, the congregation may not have the people resources necessary for a fulfilling journey.

Programs, ministries, and activities consistent with the past and present of the congregation.

Coaching from a coach for congregational leadership.

Does this choice fit your congregation? If you think the answer is "yes," click the Next button underneath It fits. If you're not sure, or you think the answer is probably "no," click the Next button underneath Look further to select another option from the full list of choices.

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