Proposed church organizational plan to be sent to the congregation this Friday, April 19.
Dear FBC Community in Christ:
I’m excited to share important developments in our work with Ministry Architects. On Sunday, May 5, the congregation will be asked to affirm a new way of organizing our congregational life that is simpler and more nimble, collaborative, and action-oriented—with a focus on doing ministry rather than administering ministry.
On Sunday, the Church Council and Strategic Advisory Team unanimously affirmed this new governance structure, which you will receive in a church-wide email this Friday, April 19. Two church Town Halls are scheduled for conversation and questions about the proposals:
Sunday, April 28, at 12:30 in Fellowship Hall. (Light snacks provided to hold you over until lunch.)
Tuesday, April 30, at 6:30 on Zoom.
The proposed plan for leadership and governance is a deeply congregational model that emphasizes mission and ministry. This model relies on two primary leadership bodies: a small Ministry Leadership Team (MLT) and a number of Ministry Action Teams (MATs).
You will have the details and diagrams on Friday, but here are some highlights. If the proposed structure is approved:
The start of our program year, instead of beginning each May, will now coincide with the start of our fiscal year on July 1.
The five-person Ministry Leadership Team will guide decision-making processes, bringing essential matters before the congregation for discernment. The MLT will pray for and guide the spiritual, missional, and operational health and wholeness of the church.
The Ministry Action Teams will represent the heartbeat of the church through service, implementing the mission, ministry, and operations of the church. The number of MATs may change as needed each year. The seven teams for this coming year are:
Newcomer Engagement
Congregational Care
Mission & Social Justice
Worship Support
Spiritual Growth
Stewardship (finances and facilities)
Human Resources
The way we organize for ministry matters. Governance structure can sap people’s energies…or it can inspire and equip people to serve and lead with faith, hope, and love. I believe God is leading us into a new season of growth and impact.
I hope to see you at one of the upcoming town halls. I look forward to hearing your impressions and talking more about the future of this church we love.
Sincerely,
Roderick Coates
Moderator