Holy Conversations: Strategic Planning as a Spiritual Practice for Congregations

The strength of this book is in this statement on page 13 of the introduction, "we want to talk about the opportunity of planning as discernment." A fresh approach away from the mere goal setting and problem solving mode of planning, this book offers congregational planning as an on-going dialogue between leaders and with God. Filled very helpful ideas and guidelines, this book provides a wonderfully new approach to congregational development that treats a congregation as unique expression of God's kingdom.

The book helps a congregation look forward and look backwards. As one looks forward, one has to decide which of the three types of planning described are needed. It also looks backwards to ask what type of things (positive or negative)stamped their imprint on a congregation's DNA. One of the resources in the back describes why many mainline churches resist talking about numerical growth or being part of small groups. The book contends that asking three questions (honestly asking them and asking others to help answer them) can be transforming for a congregation. Who are we? Why are we here? Who is my neighbor? The authors suggest that scriptural stories can be claimed to describe a particular church's situation. This story claimed can be liberating and transformative.

This book is a wonderful resource and encouragement for any churches looking to plan, especially those who want to plan with God. It asks those fundamental questions that we do not seem to remember to ask ourselves: who are we? who are we called to serve? It has more practical resources than you could or should ever use and the authors tell you that - not every exercise will be right for your church. Still, it is nice to have options and it is nice to have a book that actually talks about discernment instead of trying to co-opt the business model for churches.

Thanks So Much! In good condition and received in timely manner. Thanks Again!

This is a great resource and guide for congregations going through the planning process. As a lay member helping our Pastor, it helped me frame questions, lead discussions and develop a spirtual based planning process for our church.