The Congregation as a Discipleship System

The Congregation as a Discipleship System
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 The Congregation as a Discipleship System Mission-Based Ministry in The United Methodist Church Welcome to the Congregation as a Discipleship System learning event. We are very pleased you are giving this time to work with us today. For the past two years, we have been encouraged to “Imagine Wisconsin Anew.” Bishop Jung has constantly lifted the vision and challenge before us in five key areas: (here is your quiz for today – who can name the five key areas of focus for Imagine Wisconsin Anew?) Engage our Multicultural community and world Plant New Ministries (New faith for new people in new places) Turnaround Movement for Vital Congregations Mercy and Justice Ministries in all places Soul Food – feeding, healing, “green” ministries throughout the conference Today’s discussion is both a foundational event for moving from Imagining Wisconsin Anew to Leading Wisconsin Anew, as well as launching Circuit 2.0 – the renewed and revitalized plan for circuit ministry in Wisconsin. Our time together is all about discerning a vision, raising critically important questions, and beginning to see new possibilities. In the short time we have together today, we will not be able to answer these questions – they are much too complex, and WE don’t have YOUR answers anyway. We invite and challenge you to take these concepts and questions home with you. The information shared in this time together today, and at our November/December trainings will become part of the working process of our clergy and laity circuits. Circuits will then be able to help congregations process the questions and create visions and plans for ministry. Don Greer, Coordinator of Circuit Ministries Dan R. Dick, Director of Connection Ministries Wisconsin Conference Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

3 Biblical Terms for Congregation
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 3 Biblical Terms for Congregation ecclesia (pronounced ek-LEE’-zee-ah) – a gathering together of believers, a congregation koinonia (pronounced coy-no-NEE’-ah) – communion by intimate participation; community defined by shared beliefs and commitments oikos – (pronounced OY’-kose) -- household, place of belonging, acceptance & responsibility (Module 1: Defining Our Terms – Congregation) We begin our conversation together by creating a common language around some terms that we often take for granted that “everyone knows.” Often, we use the same words, but with different meanings. So we begin by exploring some terminology. What do we mean by congregation in The United Methodist tradition? 3 Biblical terms translated as “church” or “congregation” ecclesia (pronounced ek-LEE’-zee-ah) – a gathering together of believers, a congregation koinonia (pronounced coy-no-NEE-ah) – communion by intimate participation; community defined by shared beliefs and commitments oikos – (pronounced OY-kose) -- household, place of belonging and acceptance Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Perspectives Resident in Every Church
Provincial Leadership Self-focused, self-centered What’s in it for me? Self-interest higher value than the common good. Group/Tribe-focused Us/Them mentality Congregational Good of group meets self-interest Personal Development/ Spiritual Formation Competitive “My church…” Cultivation of Community “We” more important than “me” Connectional Church exists to serve world Individual Group The Spectrum of Focus in a Congregation – 4 Perspectives Two axes – horizontal is a focus on individual needs and desires versus the good of a group and building relationships; vertical is a provincial, inward, and small scale worldview versus a global, inclusive and big-picture worldview – this results in four distinct perspectives. Colors have been assigned to each perspective for easy identification (aligning with the colors used in Cowan and Beck’s, Spiral Dynamics): Red = individual focus, provincial worldview Blue = group focus, provincial worldview Orange = individual focus, global worldview Green = group focus, individual worldview Each congregation is a blend of these four perspectives: Red – some people come to church purely for what they gain and benefit from the experience. They seek to be inspired, encouraged, comforted, served, educated, entertained, etc. They have little-to-no interest in leading, teaching, serving, working for the church. Faith is essentially personal and private – for many, church is purely optional, not essential. Believing in God and Jesus is all that truly matters. Blue – some people come to church primarily for the fellowship and the sense of connection to a faith community. The needs of the congregation are more important than anyone’s individual needs, wants or desires. The view is very congregational – circuit, conference, or denomination is less important than “our church.” Comfort, security, and preserving the familiar are very high priorities. (continued on page 5) Global

Reflections on Perspectives
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Reflections on Perspectives Each “color” brings value to the congregation. Each “color” has both “virtue” and “shadow” sides. Each is what it is; be careful not to use value judgments. Perspectives are progressive and inclusive; relate to maturing in faith. Help each “color” be best it can be. Some important considerations of the four “color” perspectives: There are positive values to each color perspective – red has ambition and takes care of personal needs; blue builds community and protects the needs of their group; orange is committed to improvement and gain and wants to share talents with others; green constantly pushes limits and explores new possibilities that benefit everyone. But each color perspective has a “shadow-side” – not-so-positive qualities: red can be greedy and demanding, blue can be exclusive and resistant to change, orange can be selfish and adversarial, green can be unrealistic and impatient. Our tendency is to judge each color on its limitations and weaknesses (what’s wrong with it) instead of focusing on the good. We often think, “how do we get red to think and act blue; blue to become orange; orange to be green. While the four perspectives are progressive, one is not “better” than another – anymore than a sixteen-year-old is better than an eight-year-old, or an older adult is better than a young adult. Yet, we do expect more from people who are older than from those who are younger. Christianity is grounded upon such concepts as “Spiritual formation,” “faith development,” and “growth in discipleship.” Progressive change is at the heart of the Christian faith. But we don’t look at an eight-year-old and get mad that she isn’t sixteen or twenty-five. Instead, we ask, what must occur for the eight-year-old to become the healthiest and most well-rounded child she can be, so that she is ready to become nine – and no matter how much we may wish she thought and behaved like a sixteen year old, it’s going to take her eight years to get there, with no short cuts! Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Questions for Discussion
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion In your experience, which of the four perspectives is dominant in your congregation? What percentage/portion (estimate) of your congregation falls into each of the four perspectives? How might each perspective react/respond to a major change in your congregation? (continued from page 3) Orange – some people are committed to personal spiritual growth and development. Education and formation are important, and leading/teaching others is a source of personal fulfillment. The concept of “discipleship” appeals because it gives the individual a model or vision for growth. There is pride in achievement and accomplishment and being effective and spiritually grounded are highly valued. Green – some people want to fully integrate faith and life and they come to church to be equipped to lead, to teach, and to serve. Expanding the scope and reach of the community of faith is a driving force – engaging more and more people in the ministry of the church as well as continuously serving as many people as possible beyond the congregation. The purpose of church is the transformation of the world. Questions for Group Discussion In your experience, which of the four perspectives is dominant in your congregation? Estimate an approximate proportion for each perspective in your congregation (e.g., a quarter of people are Red, a third are Blue, another quarter are Orange and about percent are Green) Share your thinking about how each perspective might react to a major change or project in your congregation (e.g., launching a new service, changing worship times, changing pastor, etc.) Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference
October 2014 8 Levels of Congregational Participation Passive Engagement – those who come and receive and regularly seek to be fed, nurtured, comforted, cared for, and included. People at this level may attend many activities, but they do not fully participate or engage. They connect in a variety of ways, but as observers. They enjoy the community and fellowship that the faith provides. Active Connection – those who join and attend on a regular basis, who place a moderate value on church as a necessary aspect of the Christian faith. At this level, the church is an organization to join or a place to go, but is not deeply integrated into the person’s sense of identity. Passive Connection – those who join and keep a nominal relationship with the church, though they may not actively attend, give, or engage in more than the most basic spiritual practices (e.g., grace before meals, Bible on the bookshelf). Consider themselves “members,” but generally in name only. Belief – the initial level of participation, where individuals make an affirmation that they believe in God, believe in Jesus Christ as God’s Son. May or may not ever connect with a formal body of believers at any level. 8 Levels of Church Participation Following the four perspectives, there are eight basic levels of connection or engagement with a congregation. Belief – the initial level of participation, where individuals make an affirmation that they believe in God, believe in Jesus Christ as God’s Son. May or may not ever connect with a formal body of believers at any level. Passive Connection – those who join and keep a nominal relationship with the church, though they may not actively attend, give, or engage in more than the most basic spiritual practices (e.g., grace before meals, Bible on the bookshelf). Consider themselves “members,” but generally in name only. Active Connection – those who join and attend on a regular basis, who place a moderate value on church as a necessary aspect of the Christian faith. At this level, the church is an organization to join or a place to go, but is not deeply integrated into the person’s sense of identity. Passive Engagement – those who come and receive and regularly seek to be fed, nurtured, comforted, cared for, and included. People at this level may attend many activities, but they do not fully participate or engage. They connect in a variety of ways, but as observers. They enjoy the community and fellowship that the faith provides. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 8 Levels of Congregational Participation Diakonia – the Greek term from which our understanding of servant ministry springs. At this level, a person gives his/her entire life to Christian pursuits – engaging in prayer, study of scripture, service to those in need, teaching, and worship. This is the life that radical discipleship prepares the servant leader for. Radical Discipleship – at this level, a person devotes his/her life to Christian service, generally accepting a vocation within a church, spiritual movement, or religious order. We view most pastors, priests, and church professionals in this category. Initial Discipleship – those who make their faith a guiding priority in their daily living, engaging in developmental spiritual practices, and committing a significant amount of personal time, energy, and resources into spiritual growth and faith formation, and service to others. These are the people who assume leadership responsibility. Active Engagement – those who actively pursue personal growth and development through formation activities, small groups, study, regular worship, and support of ministries and services to others. People at this level are in “sponge-mode” soaking up as much as they can to grow in their faith, preparing them for discipleship. Active Engagement – those who actively pursue personal growth and development through formation activities, small groups, study, regular worship, and support of ministries and services to others. People at this level are in “sponge-mode” soaking up as much as they can to grow in their faith, preparing them for discipleship. Initial Discipleship – those who make their faith a guiding priority in their daily living, engaging in developmental spiritual practices, and committing a significant amount of personal time, energy, and resources into spiritual growth and faith formation, and service to others. These are the people who assume leadership responsibility. Radical Discipleship – at this level, a person decides to devote his/her life to Christian service, generally accepting a vocation within a church, spiritual movement, or religious order; or dedicating oneself to a vocation through a sense of calling (healthcare, social work, law, public service, etc.) We view most pastors, priests, and church professionals in this category., but many laity live their spiritual gifts and ministry in secular settings. Diakonia – the Greek term from which our understanding of servant ministry springs. At this level, a person gives his/her entire life to Christian pursuits – engaging in prayer, study of scripture, service to those in need, teaching, and worship. This is the life that radical discipleship prepares the servant leader for. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

8 Levels of Congregational Participation
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 8 Levels of Congregational Participation Diakonia Radical Discipleship Initial Discipleship Active Engagement Passive Engagement Active Connection Passive Connection Belief Here is a graphic representation of the list we just read. Note how it aligns with the four perspectives dominant in today’s church. A majority of people are in the read and blue levels, with a decrease as the demands and level of commitment increases. There is a crossover point between the four levels in the lower tier, and the four levels in the upper tier. In the lower tier, people are coming to church primarily to be served, while in the upper tier they seek to serve others. In the lower tier, people are looking to have their needs met and to be cared for; in the upper tier they look to grow and develop gifts and abilities that allow them to care for others. In the lower tier, church is somewhere you go and something you do; in the upper tier, church is something you become and take out into the world. It is important to remember, we don’t leave one level for the next – we take everything from below with us. We will always be believers no matter how far we progress, and most of us can remember a time where church wasn’t as vitally important to us, or when we first felt the enthusiasm to learn and do more. At the highest levels, we still contain all that has come before. Note that this conceptual frame is focused on the congregation and not a larger community or culture. Parallels could be drawn, but for this discussion, we are looking exclusively at the congregational setting. The “energy” of a congregation flows one of two ways: Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

8 Levels of Congregational Participation – Downward Flow
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 8 Levels of Congregational Participation – Downward Flow Diakonia Radical Discipleship Initial Discipleship Active Engagement Passive Engagement Active Connection Passive Connection Belief Energy, Time, Resources from top to bottom The more mature care for the less mature The majority come as long as their needs are met Very little incentive or energy for growth or change Those at the upper end of the pyramid – the most deeply connected and engaged “do” ministry for the lower end (the less connected and engaged). Human and material resources are used to support the needs/desires of the base of the pyramid. This leads to little change, growth or transformation. The flow of energy is from top to bottom. People come to church to receive more than to give, to be helped more than to help, and to be inspired and energized rather than challenged and equipped. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

8 Levels of Congregational Participation – Upward Flow
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 8 Levels of Congregational Participation – Upward Flow Diakonia Radical Discipleship Initial Discipleship Active Engagement Passive Engagement Active Connection Passive Connection Belief Energy, Time, Resources from bottom to top Nurture and development happens at every level The majority come for spiritual growth and personal development High incentive for growth and change Those at the upper end of the pyramid draw the less connected and engaged upward through a process of formation, cultivation and accountability. The congregation creates a clear process and pathway to move from the lower levels to the upper levels. Human and material resources are used to strengthen the upper levels. This leads to a continuous process of spiritual formation and faith development at each level. The flow of energy is upwards, from lower to higher levels. Each level has different expectations, investment, and capacity to change and adapt A healthy congregation can answer the following three questions: What are we helping people to become (at each level)? What motivates people at each level? What makes each higher level attractive to the level below? (People change and grow when the benefits of changing outweigh the costs. People are seeking that which adds value and benefit to them personally, and that will help them achieve personal goals. People tend to move to higher levels when the benefits are crystal clear) Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion Which direction is the energy flowing in your congregation? How might people at each of the eight levels answer the question “Why do you come to church?” What are the challenges/considerations to creating a congregational environment that reaches, connects and engages all eight levels of participation? Questions for Group Discussion Which direction is the energy flowing in your congregation? How might people at each of the eight levels of participation answer the question “Why do you come to church?” What are the challenges to creating a congregational environment that reaches, connects, and engages all eight levels of participation? If you want to focus on one question from the list, please highlight the second one. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 Discipleship Discipleship is a process of development and growth to become a Christian disciple. John Wesley believed that this process required works of personal piety as well as the practice of the means of grace – spiritual practices of the whole community of faith. Discipleship is a phase or stage of Christian development, not the goal. (Module 2: Defining Our Terms – Discipleship) The United Methodist definition of “discipleship” (slide 9) “Discipleship” is not a term used in scripture. The Greek term we translate “disciple” is mathétés (pronounced math-ay-TEES’) meaning a student, learner, follower or apprentice. We developed the term “discipleship” to indicate a process of developing and growing as a Christian disciple. John Wesley did not use the term “discipleship”. Wesley regularly differentiated two levels of Christian living – believing in God and believing that Jesus is God’s Son versus following Jesus with the intention of pleasing God and becoming Christ-like. The path to being perfected in God’s love by God’s grace requires two levels of practice on the part of the believer: works of personal piety – individual prayer, reflection on scripture, worship, service, fasting, devotional reflection, etc. the practice of the means of grace – corporate acts of prayer, study of scripture, celebration of sacraments, Christian conference, fasting, works of outreach and service Theologically, discipleship is a phase or stage of Christian growth and development, not an ending destination. Biblically, the twelve were disciples until the Pentecost event. At that point, the twelve were never referred to as disciples again – their followers were referred to as disciples. Through a transformation in the Spirit, followers become leaders, students become teachers, apprentices become masters and mentors. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 Engaging the Concept Every congregation should discuss: What is a “disciple”? What is a disciple “for”? How is a disciple formed/made? Who makes a disciple? How do you know when a disciple is “finished”? What do you do with a disciple once you have one? What comes next? Engaging the Concept Every congregation should explore and develop a common understanding of “discipleship”. It is helpful to have conversations at all levels of the church that discuss: what is a “disciple”? what is a disciple for? how is a disciple made/formed? who makes a disciple? how do you know when someone is a disciple? (what does “finished” look like?) what do you do with a disciple once you’ve made one? what comes next? what lies “beyond discipleship?” While there may be some variation in our definitions and visions for discipleship, until we have a clear picture of what a disciple is and does, we cannot create an effective process to help people become disciples. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion Think about having this discipleship discussion in your church. Some important questions to consider: How does a Christian “disciple” differ from a Christian “believer”? What are some core characteristics of a Christian disciple? What is the purpose of discipleship? What is your congregation’s process for “making disciples”? Questions for Group Discussion How does a “Christian disciple” differ from a “Christian believer”? What are some core characteristics of a Christian disciple? What is the purpose of discipleship? What is your congregation’s process for “making disciples”? If you only have time to focus on one question, highlight the third. Some notes from conversations: All disciples are believers, but not all believers become disciples. As more is given, more is expected. More is expected of disciples than believers. The purpose of discipleship is not simply to make more disciples – disciples are learning how to be the body of Christ (to be Christ-like). Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 Systems & Processes A system is a set of interacting sub-systems, processes, resources and parts that combine and align to produce specific outcomes. A process is a series of inputs, actions and outputs that allow a system to function. A system is designed for the results it gets; if you want different results, you need to change the system. (Module 3: Defining Our Terms – System) We want to develop a basic knowledge and understanding of systems that enable us to see our congregations from a systems perspective. Working definition of a system – a set of interacting sub-systems, processes, resources, and parts that combine and align to produce specific outcomes. Working definition of a process – a series of inputs, actions and outputs necessary to allow a system to function. note that desired outcomes determine what a system must do and what sub-systems, processes, resources, and parts are necessary. (A system is designed for the results it is getting. A system that produces something for which it is not designed is a flawed or broken system.) Examples: System: Laundry – outcome is clean clothes Washing subsystem Process inputs – machine, electricity, water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, stain removers, dirty clothes , person to load washing machine Process actions – sorting, loading machine, adding appropriate agents, setting machine, soaking, agitating, rinsing, spinning Process outputs – soapy/dirty water, wet clothing, heat/energy, noise Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 Sample Systems Laundry Human Body Generally, we don’t think much about systems until they don’t work, which is often too late. Drying sub-system Process inputs – machine, wet clothing, dryer sheets, electricity, forced air Process actions – sorting, loading machine, setting machine, spinning, airflow, time, unloading, cleaning lint trap Process outputs – dry clothes, lint, heat, noise, smell After-care sub-system Process inputs – hangers, folding space, iron, ironing board, clothes, etc. Process actions – folding, hanging, ironing Process outputs – folded, hung, ironed clothes, and one stray sock Human Being – outcome is being alive The human “system” is a set of sub-systems (circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, neurological, digestive, skeletal, muscular, immune, cardio-vascular, etc.), processes (breathing, blood-flow, thinking, feeling, sensing, processing fuel), resources (skin, blood, water, minerals, chemicals, electricity, etc.) and parts (eyes, hands, feet, organs, teeth, mouths, etc. The functions of various parts differ in efficiency, quality, and interdependency, but they are all aligned toward keeping the body alive and functioning. Some are absolutely essential and must function; others are non-essential but important and contribute value to the larger system. Damage to any part of the system impacts the whole system. Think about the congregation as a system… Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion Name some of the sub-systems, processes, resources and parts that comprise a congregational system? What “outcomes” are we trying to produce through the system we call church? How do our sub-systems, processes, resources and parts align to produce these outcomes? What are some sub-systems/processes/ resources/parts in your congregation that are not aligned or connected to these outcomes? How is the congregation a system? Questions for Group Discussion Name some of the sub-systems, processes, resources and parts that comprise a congregational system. What outcomes are we trying to produce through the system we call church? How do our sub-systems and processes align to produce these results? What are some of the sub-systems and processes in your congregation that are not aligned or connected to specific outcomes? If you have time to focus on only one question, highlight the second. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Biblical Reflection: I Cor. 12:12-26
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: I Cor. 12:12-26 12For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. 14Indeed, the body does not consist of one member but of many. A guiding metaphor for the Congregation as a Discipleship System is Paul’s image of the body of Christ. Let us read I Corinthians 12:12-26 and Ephesians 4:4-16 out loud together. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: I Cor. 12:12-26 15If the foot were to say, ‘Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body’, that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16And if the ear were to say, ‘Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body’, that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: I Cor. 12:12-26 18But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20As it is, there are many members, yet one body. 21The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you’, nor again the head to the feet, ‘I have no need of you.’ Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: I Cor. 12:12-26 22On the contrary, the members of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23and those members of the body that we think less honorable we clothe with greater honor, and our less respectable members are treated with greater respect; 24whereas our more respectable members do not need this. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: I Cor. 12:12-26 But God has so arranged the body, giving the greater honor to the inferior member, 25that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another. 26If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. NRSV Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Biblical Reflection: Ephesians 4:4-7, 11-16
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: Ephesians 4:4-7, 11-16 4There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all. 7But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: Ephesians 4:4-7, 11-16 11The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: Ephesians 4:4-7, 11-16 14We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. 15But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Biblical Reflection: Ephesians 4:4-7, 11-16 16from whom the whole body, joined and knitted together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love. The congregation exists, not to decide who belongs to the body and who doesn’t, but to help all people find their place in the body. The work of the congregation is body-building – to strengthen the body, to promote its health and vitality, and to prepare it to BE Christ for the world. NRSV Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion What are the key processes and activities necessary to build and strengthen the body of Christ? How does your congregation help people discern and discover their place in the body of Christ? How does your congregation help people develop and strengthen their gifts and abilities for ministry? What are the key processes and activities necessary to build and strengthen the body of Christ? How does your congregation help people discern and discover their place in the body of Christ, and develop and strengthen their gifts and abilities for ministry? Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

The Mission of The United Methodist Church
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 The Mission of The United Methodist Church ¶ Book of Discipline The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Local churches provide the most significant arena through which disciple-making occurs.” (Module 4: Mission, Vision & Values -- Mission) 2012 Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church (slide 24) -- ¶ 120. The Mission— The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Local churches provide the most significant arena through which disciple-making occurs. A “mission” defines and describes the “what” and “why” of an organization. More than just a purpose statement, it declares our reason for existing. In 1996, The United Methodist Church General Conference defined our mission as “making disciples of Jesus Christ,” and in 2008, amended the mission with “for the transformation of the world.” We have declared that local congregations exist to make disciples who will transform the world: Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion Do you believe that the majority of people who show up at our churches are seeking to become disciples of Jesus Christ so that they can transform the world? If no, why DO they come? If yes, in what ways are their expectations met? Left unmet? What are the implications (positive and negative) for your congregation if you align your whole congregational system to “make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world?” Questions for Group Discussion Do you believe that the majority of people who show up at our churches are there to become disciples of Jesus Christ so that they can transform the world? if no, why do they come? if yes, in what ways are their expectations met? left unmet? What are the implications (positive and negative) for your congregation if all sub-systems, processes, resources, and parts are aligned to “make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world?” Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

The Process for Living Our Mission
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 The Process for Living Our Mission ¶ 122. The Process for Carrying Out Our Mission—We make disciples as we: —proclaim the gospel, seek, welcome and gather persons into the body of Christ; —lead persons to commit their lives to God through baptism by water and the spirit and profession of faith in Jesus Christ; —nurture persons in Christian living through worship, the sacraments, spiritual disciplines, and other means of grace, such as Wesley’s Christian conferencing; (Module 5: Mission, Vision & Values -- Vision) ¶ 122. The Process for Carrying Out Our Mission(slides 26-27)—We make disciples as we: —proclaim the gospel, seek, welcome and gather persons into the body of Christ; —lead persons to commit their lives to God through baptism by water and the spirit and profession of faith in Jesus Christ; —nurture persons in Christian living through worship, the sacraments, spiritual disciplines, and other means of grace, such as Wesley’s Christian conferencing; Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 The Process for Living Our Mission —send persons into the world to live lovingly and justly as servants of Christ by healing the sick, feeding the hungry, caring for the stranger, freeing the oppressed, being and becoming a compassionate, caring presence, and working to develop social structures that are consistent with the gospel; and —continue the mission of seeking, welcoming and gathering persons into the community of the body of Christ. —send persons into the world to live lovingly and justly as servants of Christ by healing the sick, feeding the hungry, caring for the stranger, freeing the oppressed, being and becoming a compassionate, caring presence, and working to develop social structures that are consistent with the gospel; and —continue the mission of seeking, welcoming and gathering persons into the community of the body of Christ. Each congregation should ask “what does this look like (vision) for us?” Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 The Process for Living Our Mission UM Formational Process Connect Engage Equip Send United Methodist Example Each step in the process should raise these questions: CONNECT -- How do we connect with people, connect people to people, connect people to God? How are we reaching new people and strengthening relationships with the existing fellowship? How are we helping people to make community of faith a high priority? ENGAGE --How do we integrate people into the ongoing life of the fellowship? How do we engage them in meaningful and transformative faith activities? How do we meet people where they are, feed their needs and hungers, and move them beyond themselves to be ready to serve others? EQUIP -- How do we equip people to live their faith in the world? How do we help people discern and discover their gifts, develop their knowledge, understanding, and awareness of their own ministry to others, and prepare them to BE the church in the community? SEND -- How do we help people move faithfully into the missional spheres of home, work, school, recreation, community, and planet? How do we prepare them to connect with others and help others connect in spiritual community? Answering these questions is a primary way of developing a plan and strategy for ministry in a local congregation. It is a “process map” for a discipleship system. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion What is your response/reaction to ¶¶120/122 of the Book of Discipline? How would people at the eight levels of congregational participation respond to ¶¶120/122? What changes would your congregation face to align with this vision of the congregation as a discipleship system? What challenges would your congregation need to overcome? What kind of resources and support would you need to lead such a change? Questions for Group Discussion What is your response/reaction to ¶ ¶ 120/122 of the Book of Discipline and the description of the process for living out our mission? How would people at each of the eight levels of congregational participation respond to ¶ ¶ 120/122 ? What changes would your congregation face to align with this vision of the congregation as a discipleship system? What challenges would your congregation need to overcome? What kinds of resources and support would you need to lead such as change? (If you are in a setting that aligns very well with this vision of the congregation as a discipleship system, how might you become a resource and support for other congregations that do not align? If you have time for only one of the questions, highlight the second. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Reframing the Congregation
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Reframing the Congregation Clarity Movement Alignment Focus Simple Church example Thomas Rainer & Eric Geiger offer a straightforward alternative that aligns perfectly with our United Methodist model in their book, Simple Church (B&H Publishing: Nashville, 2006) generate a clear, simple expectation for life together in your congregation (such as connect, engage, equip, send). Be concrete in what each step/process means. be intentional about moving people through a process – growth and development is the objective (what are we helping people become?). Clear expectations, with responsibilities and accountability are essential. Discipleship is never passive; always active. everything aligns with the purpose – those things that do not help us fulfill our purpose and potential (no matter how pleasant or enjoyable they might be) are eliminated. Keep it simple, streamlined, and to the point. maintain a laser focus on community goals, missional priorities, personal objectives. The church is where we are equipped to live our faith in the world. If we are not learning how to transform the world, we are not being the church. Simple Church by Thomas Rainer and Eric Geiger (B&H Publishing, 2006) Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Reframing the Congregation A Significant Reframing – Breaking Down the Silos A traditional way of viewing the fourfold process of making disciples for the transformation of the world is to create specialized silos: The basic result of such a structure is to put different ministries in competition with one another for both human and material resources. It also allows us to do some well, others not so well, so that we might be “great” at worship and education, but very poor at evangelism and missions. In such a structure, the parts are more important than the whole. The success and health of a congregation is not determined by which parts are functioning well, but if ALL parts are working equally well together. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Reframing the Congregation A more integrated approach views the whole as more important than the parts, and all parts are essential to health and vitality : In this model, every ministry of the church is about connecting, engaging, equipping and sending. The focus is on preparing people to live their faith – it is a more active approach of equipping, empowering, and enabling people. This is a holistic approach that recognizes the importance of each aspect of ministry – each part of the body of Christ – working together to fulfill the mission of the church. This applies to administrative functions as well as programmatic functions. The Trustees, Finance Committee, House and Grounds, Staff-Parish Relations Committee, etc., should ask, “How does our work connect, engage, equip, and send people to live their faith in the world?” Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 UMC Core Values Excerpts from ¶ 121. Rationale for Our Mission—The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world by proclaiming the good news of God’s grace and by exemplifying Jesus’ command to love God and neighbor, thus seeking the fulfillment of God’s reign and realm in the world… As we make disciples, we respect persons of all religious faiths and we defend religious freedom for all persons... (Module 6: Mission, Vision & Values -- Values) What are the core values that guide and govern our United Methodist Church? Core values are not the activities we do, but WHY we do the activities we do, and what we hope to achieve. For example, worship isn’t a value, but we worship because we love God, we seek to grow in our faith, we hope to be better people, it makes us feel good. Our rationale describes many of the things we commit to do, and they reveal what United Methodists hold to be most important. As we read ¶ 121 , look for the values reflected through our rationale. ¶ 121 of our Book of Discipline offers a “why statement” (or rationale) for our mission. Excerpts from this paragraph highlight some core values of The United Methodist Church that explain why we believe our mission is important. Excerpts from ¶ 121. Rationale for Our Mission—The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world by proclaiming the good news of God’s grace and by exemplifying Jesus’ command to love God and neighbor, thus seeking the fulfillment of God’s reign and realm in the world… As we make disciples, we respect persons of all religious faiths and we defend religious freedom for all persons... Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 UMC Core Values God’s grace is active everywhere, at all times, carrying out this purpose as revealed in the Bible… It is experienced in the ongoing creation of a new people by the Holy Spirit. Whenever United Methodism has had a clear sense of mission, God has used our Church to save persons, heal relationships, transform social structures, and spread scriptural holiness, thereby changing the world. In order to be truly alive, we embrace Jesus’ mandate to love God and to love our neighbor and to make disciples of all peoples. God’s grace is active everywhere, at all times, carrying out this purpose as revealed in the Bible… It is experienced in the ongoing creation of a new people by the Holy Spirit. Whenever United Methodism has had a clear sense of mission, God has used our Church to save persons, heal relationships, transform social structures, and spread scriptural holiness, thereby changing the world. In order to be truly alive, we embrace Jesus’ mandate to love God and to love our neighbor and to make disciples of all peoples. Ask the group to name some of the governing and guiding values they see? In agreement or addition to what they say, highlight – love, healing, grace, respect, creation, freedom, holiness, and transformation, hope Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 UMC Heritage The three major traditions of The United Methodist Church -- The Methodist Church, The Evangelical Association, and the United Brethren in Jesus Christ --share three core value focus areas: Evangelism Missions Social Justice Our Christian Witness Our combined heritage (Evangelical Association, United Brethren in Jesus Christ, Methodist – in all its forms) share a three-fold traditional base: evangelism, missions, and social justice., which defines our Christian witness. Note that all three of these things are active and focus outside the congregation! Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 UMC Heritage Other shared beliefs of our 3 traditions: We do not hold our faith as a personal or private matter – United Methodists witness to our faith in the world. We do not focus solely on our own needs, but we intentionally seek to meet the needs in the world. We do not spend the majority of our time within our own fellowship, but serving and sharing in the world. The church exists to BE Christ in the world. Some powerful shared beliefs from our heritage and tradition remind us: we are not to hold our faith as a personal and private matter, but share our faith as a gift from God we are not to attend solely to our own needs, but to consciously and intentionally tend to the needs of our brothers and sisters all around the world we are not to be concerned solely for the needs of the fellowship, but to seek ways to serve beyond our congregation so that the community and world might be more just, kind, merciful and fair we exist to care for others – while our own needs might be met and we might benefit, United Methodists are blessed to be a blessing and served that we might serve. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 UMC Core Values An excerpt from ¶124 of the Book of Discipline reminds us: We are called together for worship and fellowship and for the upbuilding of the Christian community. We advocate and work for the unity of the Christian church. We call all persons into discipleship under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. As servants of Christ we are sent into the world to engage in the struggle for justice and reconciliation. We seek to reveal the love of God for men, women, and children of all ethnic, racial, cultural, and national backgrounds and to demonstrate the healing power of the gospel with those who suffer. An excerpt from ¶124 of the Book of Discipline (slide 37) reminds us: We are called together for worship and fellowship and for the upbuilding of the Christian community. We advocate and work for the unity of the Christian church. We call all persons into discipleship under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. As servants of Christ we are sent into the world to engage in the struggle for justice and reconciliation. We seek to reveal the love of God for men, women, and children of all ethnic, racial, cultural, and national backgrounds and to demonstrate the healing power of the gospel with those who suffer. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion What other values are implicit in our denominational mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world? What, if anything, do you believe our mission ignores or excludes? What are the dominant governing, guiding values in your congregation? What are some of the values/commitments listed in ¶¶122/124 that need more exploration and consideration in your congregation? Questions for Group Discussion What other values do you feel are implicit in our denominational mission? What, if anything, do you believe our mission ignores or excludes? What are the dominant and guiding values in your congregation? What are some of the values listed in ¶¶122/124 that need more exploration and consideration in your congregation? If you only have time to address one of these questions, highlight the third. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

A Way Forward: Form Follows Function
Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 A Way Forward: Form Follows Function Summary – A United Methodist congregation is a system designed to produce faithful disciples able to live their faith in the world to bring about positive change. (Outcome = disciples changing the world) Discipleship does not happen accidentally. If our congregational system is not designed to make disciples and equip them to transform the world, we have the wrong system. (Module 7: A Way Forward – Form Follows Function) Summary of Congregation as a Discipleship System Begin with the end in mind – a system is designed to produce a specific result. Our denomination defines a two-fold outcome: disciples equipped, empowered and enabled world transformed The primary work of congregational leadership is to create a system that effectively “makes disciples,” and the evidence of our effectiveness is the extent to which we “transform the world.” Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 A Way Forward: Form Follows Function An effective discipleship system demands – A clear understanding of the purpose (mission) of the congregation. A clear understanding of the “make-up” of the congregation – who is seeking what, why do they come? A clear, shared definition of “discipleship”. Comprehension and understanding of the mission, vision and values of The United Methodist Church. To be effective as congregations fulfilling our mission, we need to clarify: the purpose of our congregation the “make-up” of our congregation our understanding of “discipleship” the mission, vision and values of our United Methodist Church Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 A Way Forward: Form Follows Function An effective discipleship system demands – Clearly defined, specific goals (outcomes) we seek to produce as a congregation. Careful and intentional alignment of our sub-systems, processes, resources and parts to produce Christian disciples and equip them to live a transforming faith in the world. A plan and process to help every person grow and develop spiritually at every level of participation and Christian maturity. the specific outcomes we are seeking to produce (what are we helping people to become?) the sub-systems and processes we use to fulfill our mission our standards of effectiveness and our expectations for all people, at every level of participation and maturity Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 General Reflection Why is it important for congregations and circuits to continue this conversation and explore these questions? Conversation has the power to fuel systemic change. When enough people share a vision and commit to missional priorities, radical and fundamental progress can be made = transformation. If we want to transform the world, we must transform the church! Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

October 2014 Next Step Resources Exploration and study of the 100 level paragraphs of the 2012 Book of Discipline. Small Groups for Transformation training Exploration of Wesleyan spiritual practices – both personal and corporate Read and study Simple Church Read and study Vital Signs Develop a laity leadership cultivation plan The Role of Circuits in this Process As clergy and laity circuit teams begin to fully explore the congregation as a discipleship system, each circuit will identify training, information, resources and support that would be helpful in their context to realize this vision. Some resourcing and training that may be helpful could include: Exploration of our Book of Discipline – an overview of Our Theological Task, Our Doctrinal Heritage and Standards, Our Social Principles to help local churches better understand our identity and purpose. (The 100 level paragraphs in the Book of Discipline) Small Groups for Transformation – small group ministry principles and practices specifically designed for equipping, empowering and enabling people to live their faith in the world. Exploration of personal spiritual practices as well as the practice of the means of grace (individual and corporate), from a Wesleyan perspective. A study of Simple Church A study of Vital Signs Cultivating laity leadership for the congregation as a discipleship system Congregations can engage in these studies immediately, but it is our hope that circuits will become the place where these topics and questions can be deeply explored to benefit every congregation throughout the conference. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

Wisconsin Annual Conference October 2014 Questions for Discussion What have you found most helpful in today’s conversations and presentations? What have you found most challenging? What (be specific) will you take home and work on, share, discuss or explore in the next few days? What would you like your circuit to do with what we have explored today? What will you put on the next circuit meeting agenda? (If you are from a local church, what would you like your congregation’s leadership to talk about? Questions for Group Discussion What have you found most helpful in today’s conversation and presentation? What have you found most challenging? What will you take home and work on, share, discuss or explore in the next few days? What do you want your circuit to do with what we have explored today? What will be on the next circuit meeting agenda? If you can only address one of these questions, please highlight the third. Dan R Dick, Director of Connectional Ministry

The Congregation as a Discipleship System

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