Wednesday Wonder

April 18, 2012

I remember when I first heard Ken Callahan speak. It was years ago at a conference for pastors. I was younger, very idealistic, and disappointed that he wasn’t more “theological” in outlook. He actually was, in his own way; it’s just that he was also highly practical and results oriented. He spoke of what worked and didn’t and why. I took note but now wish I had attended more closely. In the intervening years almost everything he said was proved true.

For instance, he made an observation about our spheres of influence and said that we are most usually more connected to networks of work than neighborhoods now. I can think of exceptions, but that is mainly true. So why, he asked, are you spending time trying to figure out how to reach out with a neighborhood in mind when you could be reaching out through your church members’ work environments and relationships?

The book we all read when it came out was Twelve Keys to an Effective Church. It doesn’t say everything about what is important about church. It just identifies the dynamics that need to be present to be effective. He suggested a way to celebrate the areas where we are already effective and work toward those that need attention.

How do we do when we assess ourselves by the twelve required areas? Where are we strong and where do we need to strengthen? What would it take to do so?

Specific Missional Objectives

Pastoral and Lay Visitation

Dynamic Worship

Many Significant Relational Groups

Leadership Development

Streamlined Structure and Participatory Decision Making

Several Highly Competent Programs

Accessibility to Building and Staff

High Community Visibility

Adequate Parking

Adequate Space and Facilities

Solid Financial Resources