The Journey Forward January 28, 2012

I hope you have planned to be present with us on Saturday, January 28 for "The Journey Forward." We will plan together that day using material developed by Ken Callahan.

Over years of research and consultation, Dr. Ken Callahan has discovered that while there are many characteristics that contribute to an effective church, there are twelve that have tended to be consistently present in strong, healthy congregations. His book, Twelve Keys to an Effective Church, focuses on six relational and six functional characteristics. They are:

RELATIONAL

1. One Mission Outreach

2. Shepherding Visitation

3. Stirring, Helpful Worship

4. Significant Relational Groups

5. Strong Leadership Team

6. Solid Decision Process

FUNCTIONAL

7. One Major Program

8. Open Accessibility

9. High Visibility

10. Land, Landscaping and Parking

11. Adequate Space and Facilities

12. Generous Giving

These keys are based on the research Dr. Callahan has gleaned from churches around the world. Each Sunday the sermons will lift up these characteristics. There will be articles in the newsletter and on the website. Already our prayer ministers are praying for our congregation and this date. Soon you will hear about how you can join in these efforts. All of this is in preparation for Saturday, January 28, when you will be invited to discuss and assess where we are as a congregation and where we will be headed in 2012 and beyond.

I hope you will plan to join with your fellow members for this most important day in the life of John Wesley. This is an opportunity for you to make a difference in the life of our congregation as we work together to discern God's purpose and our plan for "The Journey Forward."