future story project developed by Wendy S. Bailey Mary K. Marcotte

what led to this? new covenant presbytery questioned viability of up to 1/3 of congregations in next ten years how to get congregations to imagine something different? how to get congregations to see dissolution as a legacy/resurrection rather than failure? what are other possible paths to sustainability and faithfulness?

the objective to provide each congregation with ✦ tools helpful for self-assessment of ministry vitality indicators ✦ assistance in processing the information gleaned so that the congregation can intentionally choose/write a future story and live into it.

or see yourself more clearly get “unstuck” as you think about your future

when to use when future ministry of congregation is in question mission study for pastoral transition session “visioning” when congregation is “stuck” or needs to step out of the status quo

when NOT to use when conflict exists in the congregation when the wrong players come to the table when there are “sides” of future possibilties

basics free 2 volunteer leaders 2 meetings (1st 3 hours, 2nd 1 hour) designed for session (12-15 people max) not prescriptive

1st meeting agenda bible study (Jeremiah 1) pray narrative questions missional energy indicators demographics how to write a future story pray

2nd meeting agenda future story stool read stories from the stool what to do now? pray

the questions what are particular blessings of this congregation for you? what do folks in this community know /say about this church? what challenges is this congregation facing in the next 5 years? what do you imagine God’s greatest hopes and dreams are for this congregation in the next 5 years? (use mutual invitation)

missional energy indicators we have a large selection of strong church officers and leaders. a majority of our members are active in service to the community. most of our members have a strong prayer life. most of our members are willing to LEARN/TRY/DO something new. when asked to take on a volunteer role in the church our members frequently say “I’ve done that before and I am tired.

how to write a future story pray lead with imagination choose a current or future member of your church write story from his/her perspective tell story of congregation/ story of RESURRECTION

concepts resurrection... something has to die see reality as clearly as possible rely on the holy spirit god’s will is inclusive of many stories rely on imagination find common threads notice what excites notice what frightens

the three “paths” path of faithful TRANSFORMATION path of faithful RENEWAL path of faithful DISSOLUTION

since 2010 used in 20 or more congregations in texas, arkansas, and new jersey used at presbytery and synod levels (new covenant, synod of the sun) portions used or adapted in various other settings

learnings not a “magic wand”... outcomes depend on the work of the congregation builds trust with presbytery more “buy in” since ideas originate with the congregation important to have the right people go through the process some pastors want to “micro-manage” outcomes more coaching/follow-up needed three paths not helpful to congregations in writing stories outcomes take longer than anticipated