Summit on Congregational Transformation
February 10, 2009
Around forty people with a passion for the transformation of congregations gathered for a national summit of the PC(U.S.A.) in Louisville, Kentucky for three days of exciting conversation.
In late January, the office of Church Growth of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) hosted a three day summit on congregation transformation in Louisville. Participants included pastors, denominational national and regional executives and church consultants who share a common passion for the transformation and vitality of congregations and denominational regions. Led by consultant George Bullard, the conversation ranged over a variety of topics relevant to the task of transformation from simple definitions to the complex issues in making this a defining passion of the whole church. Some of the insights include the following:
- Rigorous spiritual life
- Expectations of a new future
- Dissatisfaction with the present – if no urgency nothing will change – based on what God is calling us to.
- Leadership core willing to make and stand behind tough decisions
- We are here for those who are not here – hands on mission
- Willing to re-invent – with permission to do so and able to handle those who do not offer permission
- Laughter – good spirit
- Reaching new disciples
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