Cornerstone Consultation 2012

You will notice that this prescription is slightly different than others we have published recently.  On Friday of the consultation, during the evening meal, Pastor Rob and Mari Muldoon announced to the consultation team that they were feeling God releasing them from the work at Cornerstone (Heuvelton, NY).   The consultation team and Pastor Rob made the decision  that should tender his resignation before the report was given on Sunday so that the church would understand that new leadership should be in place before the prescription is implemented.  Below is the consultation report, including the prescription for the Cornerstone Wesleyan Church in Heuvelton, NY.

Cornerstone Wesleyan Church Consultation

May 4-6, 2012

Note:  Pastor Rob Muldoon informed the consultation team on Friday evening,, May 4, that he would be resigning effective July 1, 2012.  This report was created in light of that decision, knowing that the congregation would be informed on Sunday, May 6, 2012. 

STRENGTHS

1.  New Growth:  This congregation has grown in the last three years.  Many new disciples have come to faith in Christ through the ministries of Pastors Mike Rumschik and Rob Muldoon.  Such growth had not been happening for several years prior to the last three.

2.  Children:  As a result of the new growth occurring through evangelism, the congregation is gaining a core of new babies and children upon which to build an exciting children's ministry.

3.  Worship:  The style of worship is meeting the needs of many in the congregation.   Also, this style is creating a wonderful worship environment that is resulting in many new people attending the church.

4.  Acceptance:  This congregation does an excellent job of welcoming people who are visiting and are new to the congregation.  The congregation is not only friendly but makes an effort to help new people feel accepted and become acclimated to the church.

5.  Downstairs Renovation:  The renovations in the church basement are providing an excellent environment for the development of children and youth ministries.  

CONCERNS

1.  Current Leadership:  The current leadership of the congregation has demonstrated that while possessing the ability to visualize an outward-focused ministry, they do not have the ability to implement it.

2.  Resistance to Change:  Like many smaller (and particularly rural) congregations, this one has been controlled by a few people who have led it to minister more to their needs and desires than to fulfill the Great Commission.  As a result, leaders today admit that the congregation is often resistant to change.  Also, there has been a constant low level of murmuring when certain people cannot get their way that has led pastors and others to leave the congregation.  The leaders have done nothing to confront these sins of the tongue.  There is also a sense that some people would rather have their own tastes and desires met to the exclusion of seeing lost people become disciples of Jesus Christ.   

3.  Mission and Vision:  The congregation does not have a clear mission statement that fits the Great Commission.  There is no vision of how the Great Commission will be implemented in order to see God change the community in which the congregation exists (Matthew 28).

4.  Structure:  Congregational leaders are given responsibilities without authority and accountability.  This inhibits ministry.

5.  Children and Big Events:  While some are making a great effort to serve children, this ministry needs more resources and focus by the leaders of the congregation.  Also, Big Events are not being designed to help create a consistent visitor flow.

 PRESCRIPTIONS

NOTE:  The first two prescriptions are to be implemented prior to the congregation locating either an intentional interim pastor or the next full-time pastor.

1.  Current Leadership:  It will be understood that if the congregation votes to accept this report and the prescriptions, the congregation is also voting to ask the District to place them in Developing Church status.  This decision allows the District to appoint, in collaboration with the congregation's leaders, either an interim or full-time pastor qualified to lead the implementation of this report.  Second, Developing Church status allows the congregation to change its leadership structure to minimize its current bureaucracy.  This action will enable the development of a ministry team of leaders who are responsible for those ministries that help a congregation develop health and growth and fulfill the mission of Jesus Christ.   The Local Church Conference will be postponed until after the vote on this report.  This vote will be taken June 3, 2012.


2.  Resistance to Change:  The District Superintendent will lead a Day of Prayer on a Sunday morning.  The purpose of this service is to lead the congregation in prayers of repentance.  The controlling nature of lay leadership has often inhibited this congregation from fulfilling Christ's mission.  Prayers seeking forgiveness for years of grumbling and complaining without confrontation will also be offered.  Time will be given to pray for a passion for lost people and a compelling vision to reach the community with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Following this morning of prayer, prayer walks and prayer drives through the larger community will be organized.  This Day of Prayer will take place September 30, 2012.


NOTE:  The next three prescriptions will be implemented once an intentional interim pastor or full-time pastor is in place to lead the congregation.


3.  Mission and Vision:  Within two months of assuming pastoral responsibilities, the new pastor will lead the congregation to adopt as its mission statement "Cornerstone Wesleyan Church exists to honor God by making disciples for Jesus Christ."  At the same time, the pastor will lead the congregation to adopt a vision statement that includes both an evangelism goal and a Great Commandment goal.


4.  Structure:  Within three months of assuming responsibilities, the new pastor will appoint a ministry team to oversee worship, assimilation, children, teens, groups, care and big events.  Leadership will be adequately resourced to fulfill their ministries while being held accountable for evangelism, growth, and leadership development goals.  During the pastoral search process, the current leaders of the congregation will raise $20,000 to help implement these ministries (training, curriculum, stipends, seminars, etc).  This will be accomplished by either seeking donations, over and above regular giving, or by borrowing money.

5.  Children and Big Events:  These two ministries need specific attention.  It is imperative to continue the development of the Sunday morning children's ministry.  This includes infants through grade six.  The leader overseeing this ministry is responsible for its growth, evangelism, and team development.  The children's leader  is also responsible for a week day children's ministry that has an intentional outreach strategy as a fundamental element to its very existence.


Once a pastor is in place, the person responsible for Big Events understands that in the next twelve months the congregation will conduct a minimum of three big events that will occur on Sunday during the worship service.


THE CONGREGATION, INCLUDING ALL WHO ATTEND REGULARLY, WILL VOTE ON THIS REPORT TO ACCEPT IT OR REJECT IT.  IF ACCEPTED THE DISTRICT WILL DO ALL WITHIN ITS POWER TO RESOURCE AND HELP THE CONGREGATION TO IMPLEMENT THE PRESCRIPTIONS.  IF REJECTED THE TRANSFORMATION PROCESS IS OVER SINCE THE CONGREGATION HAS EXPRESSED ITS WILL TO NOT WORK ON THE PRESCRIPTIONS.  THIS VOTE WILL OCCUR ON JUNE 3, 2012


Rev. Paul James
Dr. Paul Borden
Rev. Andrew Fetter
Dr. Matt Pickering


                  

CrossPointe DTP Consultation

The District Transformation Project is moving full steam ahead.  Morley voted to accept their DTP prescription 37 to 4.  CrossPointe (formerly Catskill) completed their DTP consultation this past weekend and you will find the report, including the prescriptions, below.  And, next weekend, the team is headed for Heuvelton, NY to the Cornerstone Wesleyan Church.  Your continued prayers for the process would be much appreciated.

CROSSPOINTE WESLEYAN CHURCH CONSULTATION

                    APRIL 27 – 29, 2012

Strengths

1.   This congregation has a long term dedicated pastor and family who are deeply loved and appreciated.  Everyone with whom we spoke mentioned the awesome pulpit ministry of their man of God.  Truly Pastor Keith and Lisa are a blessing to the CrossPointe Wesleyan Church and the larger Catskill community!

2.   The recent building and grounds upgrade have been done with excellence.  Over the past two years the pastor has led the church in a beautiful remodeling of the worship center and adjoining office areas, as well as the newly paved parking lot. When one enters this space a quiet worshipful atmosphere makes one feel that he/she is standing on holy ground.

3.   There is adequate space for expansion.  While not yet completed the basement area has more than enough square footage for growth.  The possibilities for ministries in this space are mind boggling.

4.   The weekly worship experience brings the body of believers into the presence of God.  Continual expansion in this area will bring joy to the congregants and a smile to God.

5.   The yearly Halloween event has brought high visibility to the church.  The whole community recognizes the church for this event as well as for the baccalaureate service hosted yearly.

Concerns

1.   An unclear vision and mission:  Lack of clarity in the vital areas of vision and mission has led to uncertain communication and failure to mobilize the entire body to assault the gates of hell and depopulate the zip code of Satan.

2.   Lack of emphasis on the three growth engines:  Worship Ministry, Children's Ministry and Assimilation are the three driving forces in bringing a church this size to health. Two of these three need immediate and extensive attention.

3.   Leadership: Inadequate leadership development and personal empowerment has led to a congregation of spectators rather than players.  Often the church is described as a "one man show".

4.   The basement area needs additional work to make it usable for the expected growth in children's and youth ministries.

5.   Big events, while attracting large crowds, are not translating into a stream of guests and new believers.

Prescriptions

1.   Unclear vision and mission.  The mission of the CrossPointe Wesleyan Church is to make disciples.  This mission statement in some form will be adopted by July 1, 2012.   All measures of effectiveness will be run through the grid of; are we making disciples?  The pastor will lead the congregation in identifying the target area for the church and the number of souls residing therein.  He will lead in setting a numerical goal of salvations for the next five years.  In addition, a goal will be set for the number of individuals to be touched by the church through acts of kindness over the next five years.  These numbers will be in place by September 1, 2012.

2.   Three growth engines.  The children's ministry will receive an unusual amount of attention and resources.  First, the large central room in the basement will be upgraded to house the children's church and the children's midweek program. This means that paint, murals, worship area, learning centers and a large screen TV are a must.  The day that this area is completed the district will deliver a big screen TV to be mounted for the children's enjoyment.   A part time children's director will be employed as soon as possible to lead the charge in this vital area.  A stipend of $100.00 per month will be a start in staffing this crucial area.  The nursery areas will be staffed by regular workers and administered by a nursery director so that children will become used to the same faces each week.  It is expected that by Easter 2013 twenty five children (birth through sixth grade) will be the norm.

 Assimilation will also become a priority.  At least fifteen individuals from CPWC will attend the training day provided by the district this summer (Unleash 2012 will be held on June 16th at Hadley Luzerne WC).  After this training day, a director of assimilation will be recruited.  Expectations will be clearly articulated and  evaluations will take place every 30 days.  The end goal is to take first time guests and turn them into regular attenders of CPWC.  This person will be in place by Sept. 1, 2012.  A monthly stipend of $100.00 per month will accentuate the importance of this role on the team.

The pastor will end his involvement in the weekly Monday night Bible study.  He will institute a weekly practice session for the worship team.  Not only will the team focus on the next Sunday, they will also plan several weeks ahead.  Recruiting additional voices and instruments to add variety in the worship plans should open ministry opportunities for others to serve. These practices will begin by July 10, 2012.  Failure to make the worship team practice means one has forfeited the right to participate on Sunday.

3.   Leadership development and personal empowerment.  Understanding that the changes necessary to become a church of 150-200 will begin with the pastor training, delegating and empowering others.  The following changes need to happen for such to occur.  The pastor will be seen as the leader of the congregation.  His job description will include spiritual leader (preaching and teaching the word of God), the caster of the vision, the leader of the LBA and Ministry Team, the recruiter and trainer of leaders and the church's representative in the community.  The church office will be staffed with part time volunteers at least five hours a day.  Attention will be given to keeping the pastor from interruptions so that he can concentrate on prayer, sermons, planning and training.  The congregation will understand that in most cases an appointment will be necessary to see the pastor.  He is a professional! You don't just wander in to see your doctor or banker without an appointment. The phones will be answered by the volunteers and weekly clerical duties will be defined and delegated to the volunteers as well.  Three volunteers will be trained and deployed by August 1.

The church will operate with a ministry team that meets twice a month for training, planning and accountability.  It will be comprised of ministry leaders such as children, assimilation, worship, nursery, youth, young adult, pastoral care, etc.  Those placed in these positions must understand the commitment necessary to build an effective disciple-making organization.  Responsibilities and authority will be given to these team members and accountability will be demanded. This team will begin meeting in July and must continue uninterrupted from now on!  It is expected that the current assistant pastor will continue to grow in his role as congregational care director.  Also his split schedule will make it possible for him to participate as one of the office volunteers.

Instead of spending his time as the church contractor the pastor will serve as chief recruiter, trainer, motivator and planner.  He will spend at least thirty per cent of his time in the community, meeting and rubbing shoulders with community leaders. (breakfast and lunches with those in schools, medicine, government and civic organizations)  This renewed thrust into the community is symbolic of the fresh commitment to focus efforts on those outside the walls of the church.  It is not about us!  Whenever conflict arises regarding taking care of those already in the church or those who are outside the church, those who are still not believers will get the energy and attention. The church will provide a fund so that the pastor can pick up the check at the lunches. A list of leaders to engage and the necessary entertainment fund will be in place by October 15.

Potential ministry leaders will be targeted.  Twice a month this band of warriors will meet for leadership training.  Everything does rise and fall on leadership.  Therefore, more and better leaders is a must.  This group of at least eight individuals will be identified by Aug. 30 and training will begin by October 1.  Commitment is the key!!!

In order to help the pastor to adapt to this new lifestyle, Dean Brown will be employed as a time management/lifestyle coach for one hundred days beginning with the day that this report is adopted.  In addition a year long coach from a larger church outside our circles will be employed for one year.

The pastor will lead the LBA and finance committee to a financial plan that will fund the measures called for in this prescription.  It is expected that each church family will prayerfully consider stepping up their weekly giving to help build this "disciple-making" team.

4.   Basement usage and other miscellaneous building/land issues.  The old sign out front must be renovated or destroyed by Aug. 30.  The children's church area will be completed by the time school starts.  Attention will be given to providing the same quality and warmth that is evident in the worship center to the basement area.  We must see this area through the eyes of new mothers.

The pastor must not do the work on the remaining renovations.  He must be about the other ministries given him in this document.  The attenders of the church must step forward contributing time, talent and money.  An additional $10,000.00 will be raised to pay for materials and contractors!  This must not be a one man show.  Every one must sacrifice to see the dream come to fruition.  Moving forward, all must realize that our pastor/shepherd must become our pastor/rancher.  He must oversee the many shepherds (leaders) as they minister to the flocks (small groups) in the body!

5.   Big events/guest flow.  During the next twelve months the pastor shall lead the church in at least five bridge events designed to reach into the community and bring guests into the church.  Vacation Bible School (with a goal of 50 kids registered), Halloween (with the goal of getting 20 families to visit the church in the days after the huge event), a children's Christmas program which should be one of the largest days of the year and a large community focused Easter Egg Hunt (designed to get 20 families to return for services on Easter) will account for four of these bridge events.  "Next date events" will be in place to follow up on these outreach endeavors. Fifty signs for advertising throughout the community will be purchased by the district to aid in advertising.  Attention to planning these events must begin immediately.  Preparation for a steady flow of guests must also begin as soon as this report is adopted.  Getting ready for company is the rallying cry! September 9th will be a kick off Sunday for living out the new vision.  This day will be one of prayer for God’s blessing and for God’s people to seek his face in reaching many lost people for Jesus.  After the service, people will be encouraged to take prayer walks and drives through out the community.

THE CONGREGATION (INCLUDING THOSE WHO ATTEND CPWC REGULARLY BUT MAY NOT YET BE MEMBERS) WILL VOTE ON THIS REPORT SUNDAY MAY 20TH, 2012.  IF ACCEPTED THE DISTRICT WILL DO ALL WITHIN ITS POWER TO PROVIDE HELP AND RESOURCES TO IMPLEMENT THE REPORT.  IF THE REPORT IS REJECTED THEN THE DTP PROCESS IS OVER AND THE DISTRICT WILL NOT ATTEMPT TO ENCOURAGE THE CHANGES SINCE THE CONGREGATION HAS SPOKEN.

Respectfully submitted,

Dr. Paul D. Borden

Rev. W. Paul James

Rev. Dean Brown

Out of the Dark

I know that many of you tell me that you pray for my travels.  Understanding the amount of miles I drive, I've heard you say that you pray often for my safety, and I'm sure that I don't thank you enough. 

Last night as I headed home, driving north on I-87, at about mile marker 16 a large truck or SUV driving without lights past me at a high rate of speed.  It narrowly missed me.  As I watched it disappear, I glanced in my rear view mirror to see the lights of a Highway Patrol car rapidly approaching, and behind that, other flashing lights.  I counted them as they went by.  Eleven Highway Patrol cars, one right after the other, traveling at well over 100 mph. 

At approximately mile marker 34, it looked like Time Square on Christmas Eve.  A small army of Highway Patrol cars, each with his own cruiser fully lighted, blocked several lanes of traffic.  In the median, among the trees, the truck rested, wheels up.  I haven't yet discovered what would cause such irrational behavior, but was reminded once again that on the highway, it is often a matter of inches that makes a difference in one's future, and so I want to say thanks for your prayers.

Awesome Weekend for ENYNE

During the past few months in Success University, we've been talking about making Easter 2012 one of the outstanding weekends in the history of our district. This morning, I can tell you that the ENYNE team accomplished just that.  Our goal was 4,000 people in our churches for Easter Sunday.  With 42 of 43 churches reporting, our attendance was 4,120.  In addition, there were scores of salvations reported, individuals baptized, hundreds of first-time guests, and outstanding services blessed by the presence of God.  To each of you who worked hard and thought outside of the box to make this a very special day, I say, 'Thank you'.  I'm proud of you, proud of your efforts and proud of the results.

This weekend was the official launch date of our Vantage Pointe Church in Queensbury.  The past few months they have been preparing for this weekend.  On Saturday, they hosted a community Easter egg hunt in a large athletic dome.  While it's hard for us to get accurate numbers, we know that over 420 cars were parked on the property.  If we average four per car (and many had kids from wall to wall in the cars and vans), we know we must have been in the 1500-range.  Cars were lined down the highway and some had to even be turned away.  TV coverage was there and most of all we were able to share the news that a new church was being launched in Queensbury.

Sunday, 154 people were present for the launch service with at least 24 families that were first-time guests.  Pastor Brown and his launch team are to be commended.  Also I'd like to thank each one of you across the district who have prayed for this fledgling church.  As I write, the Vantage Point Church is hard at work following up on their guests.  Click on the pic below to visit their Facebook page to see more photos.

I'd also like to share with you the Easter weekend attendances for our other churches.  To give some perspective on how successful our Sunday really was, I will compare Easter Sunday attendance totals to the average Sunday Morning Worship Services from the 2010-2011 fiscal year.  And, I'm writing this to encourage you and to emphasize that, as a team, we are much stronger than any one of us is individually.

Last year Bakers Mills averaged 50.  Yesterday, 92 people attended the Easter service.  On Saturday, 72 children were present at their egg hunt.  With parents included, over 150 joined in the picnic and other spring festivities the church had planned.

Brandon Center had 45 at a Good Friday Service.  Coming off an average of 43 for the 2010-2011 church year, they had 72 for Easter Service. 

Brant Lake averaged 28 last year and  had 42 at their Easter Service.  Approximately one-third of these were children.

Brookdale averaged 15 last year and had 24 in their Easter Service.  Five were first-time guests.

Cadyville averaged 71 last year and had 131 in their Easter Service.

Fusion Community (formerly Cobleskill) averaged 222 last year and had 382 on Easter.

Colton averaged 30 last year and had 90 on Easter with six salvations.  God has opened the door for them to begin a chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association, and they are using this open door to reach deep into their community.  Read all about it in the Watertown Daily Times.

Cooks Corners had an average attendance of 51 last year,  and on Easter Sunday they had 83.

Corinth averaged 35 last year and had 57 on Easter with one salvation.

Cornerstone average 77 last year and had 110 in attendance on Easter Sunday.

CrossPointe averaged 62 last year, but had 115 on Easter with three salvations and 20 first-time guests.

East Pitcairn averaged 31 last year and had 35 on Easter.  They are positioned to baptize several next week.

Ellenburg Depot averaged 35 last year and had 41 on Easter.

Ellington averaged 53 last year and they had 54 on Easter.

First (Malone) averaged 47 last year and had 111 on Easter, with four salvations.

Forest Dale averaged 39 last year and had 51 on Easter, with three salvations and seven first-time guests.

Gloversville averaged 41 last year and had 72 on Easter with two salvations.

Hadley-Luzerne averaged 121 last year.  Beginning on Friday evening, they had a sold-out Dessert Theatre, which they also offered twice on Sunday.  They figure that they reached 295 different people over the weekend.

Coming off an average of 109 for last year, Hague had 146 in attendance on Easter with  two salvations.

Hartford averaged 42 last year and had 123 in attendance on Sunday.

Kingsbury averaged 38 last year and had 52 for Easter Sunday with  four salvations.

Lisbon averaged 84 last year and had 125 on Easter.

Living Hope averaged 22 last year and had 35 on Easter.

Long Lake averaged 57 last year and had 40 on Easter.

Macomb averaged 35 last year and had 55 on Easter Sunday.  Over the course of the weekend, they ministered to 66 different people.

Mooers averaged 99 last year and had 134 in attendance on Sunday.

Morley averaged 29 last year and had 74 in attendance on Sunday.

Niskayuna averaged 94 last year and had 125 on Easter with one salvation.  They had 290 different people total attendance for their weekend activities, and this included 62 brand new individuals.

Norfolk averaged 65 last year and had 94 on Sunday with two salvations and five baptisms.

Furnace Brook (formerly North Chittenden) averaged 59 last year and had 65 in Easter Services.

Ogdensburg averaged 35 last year and had 79 in attendance on Easter.  They also had a children's egg hunt on Saturday with 40 children in attendance.

Phoenicia averaged 12 last year and had 15 on Easter.

Southside averaged 56 last year and had 76 on Easter.

Springfield averaged 61 last year and had 85 on Easter.

Turning Point averaged 36 last year and had 75 on Easter.

Turnkpike averaged 148 last year and had 203 on Easter with one salvation.   Their total attendance for all weekend activities is 321.

Waterford averaged 104 last year and had 198 on Easter with 3 salvations and many, many visitors.

Wells averaged 21 last year and had 71 in attendance on Easter with two salvations.

Wesleyan Community averaged 75 last year and had 191 on Easter.

West Chazy Community averaged 36 last year and had 40 on Easter.

Willow averaged 9 last year and had 8 on Easter.

Again, this represents 42 churches reporting 4,120 in Easter Sunday Morning attendance, with about 34 salvations and multitudes of guests and friends in attendance.

As I dictate this to Cam, I am pumped (to use a phrase I heard yesterday from one of the pastors)!  Seeing God at work in the lives of our churches is truly satisfying.  I remind you that one of the tag lines we use is Unleashing a Team of Energized Leaders to Multiply Life-Changing and Community-Impacting Churches.

I'm going to sign off now so that Cam can get this polished for you.  If you have photos of your weekend events that you'd like to send to the office, we would be glad to link them from our Facebook page to your website.

God Bless!

The Rest of the Story

A news commentator, Paul Harvey, used to have a program he called The Rest of the Story.  In this program, he shared insights behind the news that were usually unknown.  Today, I'd like to share the rest of the story about some of our churches that are involved in the District Transformation Process.

A few weeks ago, the Morley church went through a consultation weekend.  Perhaps you read the prescription in an earlier blog.  Here are some interesting things that you may not know...

• Four new families showed up to hear the prescriptions and to see where the church was headed.
• I preached to 65 that Sunday morning, which was about 25% more than they had been having in attendance.
• On Monday, two other families from the community called the church just to see what was happening.  They had heard that the church was taking on new life and heading in a new direction.
• Also, on Monday, an influential man in the community dropped by to see the pastor.  He shared that he thought it was great that the church would be focusing their attention on meeting the needs of those in the community.
• On that same day, the church was approached by a representative from the Library Association about hosting an event during the Morley Summer Fest.
• Two days later, a young woman prayed to receive Christ as her Saviour.
• This past Sunday, she walked the isle, making a public confession of faith in Jesus Christ.
• A tile layer who was working on projects in the church and heard about the new vision and direction of the church, returned on Sunday and gave a $1500 contribution, in effect, lowering the cost of his tile work.
• The church is in the midst of creating children's ministry rooms in the basement.
• This week a large tubular slide was ordered.  The children will be able to go to Children's Church by jumping onto a slide on the main floor and ending up in a rain forest on the floor below.  One of the amazing things about this is that the church is doing this before they have even voted on the prescription!
• A new cafe/fellowship area has been added in the main church building.

These are amazing God-things that none of us could have anticipated when we started the consultation process.

In a Town Hall meeting last Saturday at Forest Dale Wesleyan Church, Forest Dale, VT, a lady was so excited about the new direction the church was taking that she was literally bouncing in her chair as she offered an interest-free loan to the church to make the necessary changes to 'get ready for company'.  Pastor John McDonald said this in an email today, "The groundswell of positive discussion is building momentum.  Creative juices are flowing with ideas coming from all sides.  Folks are excited, anticipating the work to be done.  Our most positive note is Elijah, a ten-year old, who asked Jesus to be His Saviour on Sunday!!"

And I get texts from the pastors.  This week, the text messages included...

• Fifteen baptized at Hadley-Luzerne WC, with 212 in attendance.
• Seven baptized at Malone, with 72 in attendance.
• Sixty-seven worshiped at Vantage Pointe (Queensbury), with anticipation building for their official launch on Easter Sunday.
• CrossPointe (Catskill), normally runs about 65 in Sunday Morning Worship, but this past week, 91 attended the service to hear what the consultation would look like in their church.  Again, anticipation was high.

I don't understand all the dynamics that surround the cluster groups, the consultation weekends, the coaching and the lay ministry training events.  I don't understand how this thing we call the District Transformation Project really works.  I have just come to recognize that these are tools that God has chosen to use to help us refocus our efforts and energy impacting the communities in which we live for Jesus Christ.  These have become tools in my toolbox that I would not trade for anything.  Along with Success University (SU), the DTP process is the most impacting thing I've seen in the life of a district.

On June 16, we're having a training event that we are calling Unleash 2012 (previously called Praise Gathering).  Cam will be sending more information on what that day will entail, but for now, I'd like you to plan on bringing 10-12 leaders per church to be trained in Children's Ministry, Music & Worship, Assimilation, and to hear stories of church transformation and gain insight into ways that these concepts can be used in your churches.

I carry a phone and often I receive text messages from our pastors which thrill my heart.  I think that after reading this blog, you'll understand why.  This Sunday is Easter and I expect that all Sunday afternoon I will be receiving text after text after text of positive stories of what has happened in our churches on Resurrection Sunday.  Perhaps there will even be some more rest-of-the-story-type stories I can share with you.

Another Transformational Weekend

This past weekend, I had an amazing experience!  Rev. Norm Mesel, Rev. Marc Watkins and I were the  team that conducted the consultation at our Morley church.

This church was begun in 1843.  If you know much about Wesleyan Church History, you will remember that Orange Scott withdrew from the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1843 to begin the Wesleyan Methodist Connection of North America.  Evidently, Morley was one of the very first churches in this loosely-organized group of churches.

Over the past 169 years, this church has gone through multiple life cycles.  Just recently, it was at the low end of the cycle, not far from death.  A group of 25-30 people hung on, hoping that something would reinvigorate their church and their outreach to their community.  A few months ago, Zack and Carla Working, from Indiana, responded to the call to pastor this church.  Since their arrival, there has been renewed energy in the church.

This past weekend, we experienced a wonderful sense of renewal.  On Sunday, 65 people, many of them younger, poured into the sanctuary to hear the prescription that we trust will bring renewed health.  That prescription follows below.

Two things I have learned...

1)  The cluster groups that we call Success University (SU) are imperative to building a strong district team, and 2)  The consultations that we call the District Transformation Project are another vital ingredient in church and district renewal.

I just told my administrative assistant, Cam, this morning that these two things alone could totally occupy a man's time, energy and prayer.

And now for the consultation report...

                Morley Wesleyan Church Consultation Report
                                       March 23-25, 2012

STRENGTHS

1.  Pastoral Leadership:

The people of Morley Wesleyan Church are grateful for the pastoral family that God has sent them.  Pastors Zack and Carla Working are a ministerial team that obviously love the Lord, each other, and the church where God has planted them.  The congregation has confidence in the direction that the church is headed.

2.  Lay Commitment:

Through thick and thin, feast and famine, a dedicated core of leaders have tenaciously clung to the fact that God planted Morley Wesleyan church in the North Country.

3.  Roomy Facilities and Campus:

Vision and foresight of those who have blazed the trail at Morley Wesleyan Church have led to adequate parking, a solid worship center, and a useful activities center.  Though needing to be refurbished, the facilities offer a wonderful canvas on which to paint.

4.  Above Average Giving:

A dedicated core have generously and courageously supported the church with their tithes and offerings, thus making ministry possible.  Going forward, these, plus those who are joining them, will continue to provide financial resources for the ongoing ministries.

5.  Welcoming Congregation:

Many with whom we spoke shared that the welcoming , friendly congregation made attending the church like being with family.

CONCERNS

1.  Lack of Vision:

Morley Wesleyan Church has no clear vision statement.  This lack of clarity has caused an absence of focus and intentionality, and has led to a "keep the doors open" mentality vs. a "let's impact our community for Christ" attitude.

2.  Lack of Children/Youth/Young Adults

Failure to provide an engaging, ongoing ministry to children, youth and young adults has led to a graying congregation with few young families and young adults.

3.  Tired Facilities

While solidly built, the buildings have not been updated for a long time.  In order to make them attractive to today's family, a  room-by-room refurbishing is necessary.

4.  Outreach and Assimilation

Morley Wesleyan Church has been focused on taking care of those already in the church rather than focusing on those outside the church who need Christ.  This has resulted in an 'it's all about us' mentality.

5.  Staff and Leadership Development

For too long the leadership team and ministry positions have been held by a few.  This has led to the perception that only a few make the decisions necessary for this congregation.

PRESCRIPTIONS

1.  Vision

The pastor and people of Morley Wesleyan Church will adopt the following vision statement: "Morley Wesleyan Church exists to honor God by making new disciples for Jesus Christ" (The Great Commission).  The vision statement will be in place by June 10, 2012.

The pastor will lead the church in a ministry audit.  Those ministries that do not support or aid in implementing the vision will be coached so they know how to make disciples. Failure to implement the vision in any ministry means that the ministry must cease to exist.

The church will define the community for which it is responsible.  Upon completion of this demographic work, the leadership will prayerfully select two numbers.  The first number will represent the lives to be touched for Christ through acts of service over the next five years.  The second number will represent souls to be reached with the Gospel during the next five years.  These numbers will be in place by July 30, 2012.

In anticipation of this new vision and mission of the congregation, the pastor shall lead his people in a service of prayer and repentance, asking God to forgive the lack of intentionality and passion in reaching the lost.  In planning this service, the pastor will consult with two of the district transformation pastors who have led their congregations in one of these services.  In addition the congregation will read and discuss The Externally Focused Church by Rick Rusaw and Eric Swanson.  This will be completed by June 10, 2012.

A new job description for Pastor Carla focusing on the Executive Pastor/Children's Pastor will be developed.  Her position will develop into a co-ministry position with her husband.  A stipend for this position should be considered.  A budget line for Children's Ministry  must be one of the top items in the 2012-2013 church budget.  Several thousands of dollars is not too much to consider, thus other line items must be adjusted accordingly.

A road trip for children's ministry and decoration/construction workers will be organized to visit other DTP churches that have recently updated their children's ministry areas.  This will be put in place by May 1, 2012.  On June 16, at least a dozen workers will attend the district Unleash 2012 training day.

Prompt attention will be given to upgrading the nursery to a cozy modern space.  This area will be staffed.  If babies are not present for the service, the worker will spend time praying that God will send young families with babies to the Morley Wesleyan Church.

3.  Facilities:

The team wishes to affirm the Morley Wesleyan Church for the present emphasis on remodeling the current buildings.  The new fellowship/cafe area located beside the Worship Center is stunning.  The warming/cleanup kitchen will create versatility that will only add to the connection ministry that is already taking place.

The Activity/Youth Center will be viewed as an outreach tool provided by God.  The pastor will lead the LBA in rewriting guidelines for the use of this building, with special attention given to making sure that it is available to the youth of the community on a regular basis.  Also, it will be made available to community groups and families and other churches wanting to use it to minister to youth.  This building must not sit vacant.  It must be used and maintained as a resource given by God and one for which we will give account to God.  This guideline will be updated by July 1, 2012.  The new guidelines will be forwarded to the District Superintendent so he can make sure adequate insurance coverage is in place.

A new lighted church sign will replace the old one that now sits by the church porch.  To be located at the front of the main parking areas, its modern glow, including website address, will tell to all that the Morley Wesleyan Church is alive and on the move.  A new website is also designed. The new sign and website are to be completed by September 30, 2012.

A schedule for continuing the renovations of the entire campus, both inside and out, will be developed by the pastor, trustees and LBA.  The timeline of projects, projected cost, etc. will be ready by August 15, 2012.  This includes employing a professional consultant, such as Ernie Reed from Sherwin Williams, to give guidance regarding a campus-wide decoration theme.

Fundraising for these projects will continue.  If the $30,000 goal is not reached by December 30, 2012, the pastor and LBA, along with the District Superintendent, shall explore the possibility of a short-term loan in order to make it feasible to complete the renovations in a timely fashion.  The team recognizes that the extent of renovations needed may take longer than the one-year prescription deadline.

4.  Outreach

The pastor, along with his coach, shall plan four bridge events during the 2012-2013 church year.  The church budget shall be adjusted to reflect this new emphasis on outreach.  The pastors, Zack and Carla, must place an unusual emphasis on reaching and assimilating new attenders and new believers into the Morley Wesleyan Church.  This will be accomplished, in part, by taking a team to Unleash 2012 to learn about assimilation.

Training for ushers, greeters, and follow-up teams will take place.  Emphasis will be placed on newcomer events and New Believer classes.  Whenever a conflict arises regarding a ministry to existing members and reaching new attenders, the new attenders will be given preference in time and resources.

VBS will be one of the huge outreach events of 2012.  That, along with Trunk-or-Treat/Fall Festival and the annual Children's Christmas Program, will offer the opportunity to attract young families to view the new children's worship area.  Once again, proper monies must be allocated to make these events possible.

Also, Missions, both foreign and local, must be given adequate place in the 2012-2013 budget.  The Missions Team will develop priorities for where these funds will be invested...whether in lives here or abroad!

5.  Staff/Leadership Development

Moving to a team that leads and executes ministries will be initiated by April 30, 2013.  Pastor Zack shall give priority to recruiting and training individuals who will be ministry leaders in areas such as worship, children, youth, assimilation, etc.

This ministry team will meet monthly to set goals and programs, plan special days and events as well as for leadership development.  Recognizing that the Board governs, the pastor leads, the staff manages, and the congregation ministers will be an ongoing part of the growth of the congregational structure as it moves toward a larger organizational pattern.

THE CONGREGATION (INCLUDING REGULAR ATTENDERS THAT MIGHT NOT BE MEMBERS) WILL VOTE ON WHETHER OR NOT TO ACCEPT THESE PRESCRIPTIONS.  IF THE VOTE IS NEGATIVE, THE DISTRICT WILL NO LONGER ENCOURAGE THE CONGREGATION TO IMPLEMENT THE PRESCRIPTIONS, SINCE THE CONGREGATION WILL HAVE REVEALED ITS DESIRE NOT TO DO SO.

The Consultation Team:

Rev. W. Paul James
Rev. Norman Mesel
Rev. Marc Watkins

DTP - Round Two

This past weekend we began round two of the District Transformation Project.  Rev. Dick Osborne and I comprised the consultation team.  The church going through the consultation process was the Forest Dale Wesleyan Church, Brandon, VT, pastored by Rev. John McDonald.

Following are the strengths, concerns and prescriptions for helping them become a more healthy church...

Forest Dale Wesleyan Church Consultation Report
March 16 - 18, 2012   

Strengths:

1.  Loving and Caring Congregation

This congregation welcomes and accepts new people with love and grace.   Repeatedly, we heard that the number one strength of this congregation was the honesty and genuineness in relationships, while welcoming others without judgment or prejudice.

2.  Pastor and Spouse

The people of the congregation value highly the ministry of Pastor John and Cheryl McDonald.  They speak well of Pastor John's preaching and his care and concern for the congregation.  This couple demonstrates team work in both marriage and in congregational ministry.

3.  VBS Outreach

Numerous individuals mentioned that VBS was one of the highlights of the year, with 50-60 children involved.  The VBS was, by far, the most-mentioned ministry when those interviewed were asked to share about ministry involvement.

4.  Generous Congregation that Continues to Give During Troubled Economic Times

Those who give to the work of the congregation do it generously.  While there is still room for improvement, for a church this size, giving is above normal.

5.  Strong Desire Throughout Congregation to See God's House Full of People Coming to Christ

Repeatedly we heard, "We want to see this house of worship full, and we want to reach the lost for Christ."

Concerns:

1.  No Vision and a Failure to Intentionally Reach Out to Make Disciples

There is no clear vision statement and as a result there is a lack of clarity about the mission and vision.  This has led to outreach/disciple making being talked about but rarely being practiced.

2.  Inadequate Facility and Lack of Parking

A building over 130 years old and an odd-shaped property chopped up by numerous buildings does not lend itself to the ministry of making disciples.

3.  Lack of Follow-Up and Assimilation

The lack of follow-up and assimilation of those who visit the church for events, like VBS, short-circuits the outreach process and demoralizes those who work hard to put on special events.

4.  Worship Service that Reaches All Ages

The format, staging and technology used to worship needs to be upgraded in order to appeal to individuals of all ages.  In order to reach a younger age group, their  preferences must be addressed.

5.  Lack of Involvement/Ownership in the Ministry of the Church

Over and over we heard that only a few are engaged in the ministries of the church, while the majority are not involved or do not feel empowered to use their giftedness in the Body.

Prescriptions:

1.  Vision

The pastor and the people will adopt the following vision statement:  Forest Dale Wesleyan Church exists to honor God by making new disciples for Jesus Christ.  This will be in place by June 1, 2012.  The Forest Dale Wesleyan Church will define the community to which Christ has called it.  Upon completing the definition, the congregation shall prayerfully select two numbers--one indicating the number of lives in this area to be touched for Christ through acts of service during the next five years, and the other indicating the number of souls to be reached with the Gospel during the next five years.  These numbers will be selected by July 1, 2012.

In anticipation of this new vision and mission of the congregation, the pastor shall lead his people in a service of prayer and repentance--a time of asking God to forgive the lack of intentionality and passion for reaching the lost. Following this service, a bus tour will be taken of the target area with strategic stops to pray for schools, public facilities, etc.  This will be completed by June 10, 2012.

2.  Inadequate Facility/Lack of Parking

The pastor will lead the congregation in leveling the carriage house that stands behind the parsonage.  Once leveled, grading and graveling will be done to add additional parking spaces.  A small storage shed will be placed at the back of the lot for lawn mowers, etc.

The old school building that sits on the property will be remodeled so that it can be used year-round.  The large room will be subdivided into a pastor's office/meeting room, with the rest becoming a children's worship center.  A task force will visit two sister churches to see what they have recently accomplished in remodeling their children's areas.

A modern bathroom will be placed in the corner of the present foyer, thus making it possible for a bathroom to be accessible to all.  The inner set of sanctuary doors will be replaced by French doors, giving a warm, inviting look into the sanctuary.

The present nursery and office in the basement will be reversed, with much care given to make the nursery area the most attractive space in the building.  New carpets will be installed, walls painted and adequate lighting will be addressed.

These projects will be completed by September 30, 2012. 

Fundraising for these special projects should proceed immediately, with emphasis given to asking current families to give $1000 - $2000 where possible.  If fundraising falters, consideration should be given to a short-term loan so that projects can be completed in a timely manner

3.  Follow-Up/Assimilation

The pastor must see his role change from being the chaplain of the congregation to the following...

1)  Preaching and calling the congregation to address spiritual issues;

2) Producing and directing worship;

3)  Developing leaders, empowering leaders and holding leaders accountable;

4)  Representing the congregation to the various communities that the congregation serves;

5) Overseeing bridge events and assimilation/follow-up.

This job description will be in place by July 1, 2012

It is imperative that the pastor's office outside of his home be completed ASAP.  Office hours will be instituted and a volunteer clerical person recruited to help the pastor organize the church to operate like a church of 150.  The pastor shall focus on gathering and assimilating during this season of church transformation.

During the next year, the pastor shall lead the congregation in four bridge events and the follow-up events necessary for assimilation.  His coach will help select the time and type of events and aid in assessing their effectiveness.

4.  Worship

In order to introduce more modern equipment into the worship experience, a new sound system will be installed along with a projector to use with the big screen.

To open up the platform and allow the speaker/musicians closer contact with the congregation, the communion table will be moved to the back wall.  Extra furniture and instruments will be removed from the platform and other areas tidied up.

5.  Ministry Involvement/Leadership Training

Emphasis will be placed on recruiting and training congregants to execute ministries.  Where no leader is available, that ministry will cease until God provides a leader.  The pastor will recruit and appoint leaders for the Worship Team, Children's Ministry Team, Assimilation Team and Small Groups Team.  These four will serve as the nucleus of the Ministry Team that will meet monthly for leadership development, goal setting, planning and accountability.  This team will be in place and functioning by September 1, 2012.

A delegation of at least 12 individuals will attend Unleash 2012, the training event offered by the district, on June 16, 2012.

Understanding that worship, assimilation and children's ministry drive the growth of a small church, these three ministries, as well as a small groups ministry, will be the focus of the church for the next year.  Getting Ready for Company shall be the rally cry!  Nothing will be done without asking the question, "How would a new person view what we are saying or doing?"

THE CONGREGATION (INCLUDING THOSE WHO ATTEND REGULARLY BUT MAY NOT YET BE MEMBERS), WILL VOTE ON THIS REPORT ON SUNDAY, APRIL 15, 2012.  IF ACCEPTED, THE DISTRICT WILL DO EVERYTHING IN ITS POWER TO PROVIDE HELP AND RESOURCES TO IMPLEMENT THE REPORT.  IF THE REPORT IS REJECTED, THEN THE PROCESS WILL BE OVER AND THE DISTRICT WILL NOT ATTEMPT TO ENCOURAGE SUCH CHANGES, SINCE THE CONGREGATION HAS SPOKEN.

Respectfully Submitted,

Rev. Paul James
Rev. Dick Osborne