What to Expect

There are three main parts to the consultation: the preparation, the weekend, and the year of consultation.

1. Preparation

The church must complete a congregational self-study packet prior to the consultation weekend. This extensive report gives the assessment team necessary background information about the church and helps the team form significant questions for the weekend. It should be submitted to the Director of Healthy Church Ministries at least two weeks ahead of the consultation weekend.

2. Consultation Weekend

A team of 2-5 persons spend the weekend conducting a thorough assessment of the church.

Friday. On Friday, the assessment team interviews the pastor, pastor’s wife, and staff (both paid and volunteers who oversee any significant areas of ministry). In addition, a meeting is held with a focus group of 25-30 people who represent a broad spectrum of the church based on age and time associated with the church. Three basic questions are asked:

1. What is the greatest strength of the church?
2. What is the greatest challenge or concern of the church?
3. If you had the ability to change one thing about the church, what would it be?

Saturday. Saturday is spent with the pastor and the leadership team, reviewing all the information collected so far and exploring their hearts and convictions about the direction, vision, and ministries of the church. After this meeting, the assessment teams writes a report which includes:

• The five greatest strengths of the church.
• The five greatest challenges or concerns.
• Five or six prescriptions with deadline dates and responsible party named. These are intended as first steps to move the ministry forward toward health.

Sunday. On Sunday, the lead assessor preaches a vision message about God’s mission for the church. Following the services or at a time determined by the church leadership, the report is shared with the whole congregation.

3. Coaching/Accountability

The consultation team assigns a mentor to coach the pastor and leadership team over the next twelve months in fulfilling the steps of the plan. This includes:

• An on-campus visit at least one day per month.
• Sharing resources that will assist the church.
• Coaching and mentoring as needed between visits.

Next: Commitments (by the church, by Healthy Ministry Resources)