Envisioning Our Future
In January, the Envisioning Committee was formed to develop a recommendation for program and staffing actions as a result of the departure of Reverend Dr. Dave Lawrence.
The Committee:
- surveyed the congregation
- gathered information from similar churches and PCUSA
- reviewed the church budget and looked at endowment spending
- interviewed all church staff
The congregation survey received a good level of response across ages, service attendance and member tenure with the church.
- Congregants noted top priorities as: Worship, Attracting & Welcoming New Members, Programs for Youth & Children, and Pastoral Care.
- Leading needs included:
- Church growth and assimilation of new members
- Ministries for Seniors
Information from other churches similar to ours showed that they are frequently staffed with 2-3 ordained clergy. And, that churches that focus on growth are usually successful.
A review of the church budget showed that:
- 36% of the budget is spent on staff
- the number of staff members is within the range of other churches
- use of the endowment is within the 4-6% nonprofit recommended range
- the benefit from a full time person would outweigh the incremental cost
Interviews with Staff identified some opportunities and also showed how blessed we are with such talent.
Over months of work, the Envisioning Committee considered several alternatives and evaluated them based on the research and financial assessment. After thoughtful deliberation and prayer, the unanimous conclusion was to hire a full-time Pastor to enable the church to grow and have vibrant programs.
