Leadership Training Part 2: Charting a Hopeful Path for Our Church's Future

 

Summary

This is part two of our 2025 leadership training workshop. We gathered to face our current reality as a church and to chart a path forward with hope, clarity, and unity. Our financial review revealed that, while we are not in immediate crisis, we are running an annual deficit that is eating into our reserves. The blessing is that both our church and parsonage are paid off, giving us valuable assets and options. After much discussion with our district leadership, we learned that selling the parsonage could provide significant funds for a redevelopment plan—up to 70% of the sale value can be used for missional programs if we have an approved plan. This is a rare opportunity, but it comes with the responsibility to be thoughtful, strategic, and unified in our approach.

We discussed the importance of acting now, not out of external pressure, but because the longer we wait, the harder it will be to turn things around. The process requires us to develop a detailed, multi-year plan that must be approved by the district superintendent and bishop, and we want to have this ready so that when the funds become available, we can move forward without delay. Our focus is on building the infrastructure necessary for growth: hiring a part-time secretary, upgrading technology, improving communication and follow-up, and investing in outreach and discipleship programs. These are not just administrative tasks—they are the backbone of a healthy, welcoming, and growing church.

We also talked about the need for everyone to be involved and for the plan to reflect the collective vision of the church, not just one person's ideas. The goal is to create a church where people want to be—where visitors are welcomed, followed up with, and integrated into the life of the community. This requires intentional investment in people, systems, and ministries, especially Christian education and outreach. We must be wise stewards of the resources God has given us, using them to build a sustainable future for the next generation. There are no guarantees, but if we do nothing, decline is certain. If we act in faith and unity, we give God room to work and our church a chance to thrive.

Key Takeaways

- Facing Reality with Hope and Honesty
Recognizing our financial deficit is not a cause for despair but an invitation to honest assessment and faithful action. By understanding where we stand, we can make wise decisions that honor both our past and our future. This clarity is a gift, allowing us to move forward with eyes wide open and hearts full of hope. [03:05]

- Redevelopment as a Spiritual Opportunity
The possibility of using parsonage sale funds for missional programs is more than a financial maneuver—it is a spiritual opportunity. It challenges us to reimagine what it means to be the church in this season, investing in outreach, discipleship, and growth rather than mere survival. This is a call to align our resources with our mission, trusting God to multiply our efforts. [09:07]

- The Power of Infrastructure and Intentionality
Growth does not happen by accident; it requires intentional investment in people and systems. Hiring a secretary, upgrading technology, and improving communication are not just administrative tasks—they are acts of hospitality and stewardship. When we build strong infrastructure, we create space for ministry to flourish and for people to encounter Christ in meaningful ways. [27:17]

- Unity and Shared Vision are Essential
A successful redevelopment plan cannot be the work of one person; it must reflect the collective wisdom and commitment of the whole church. This process invites every member to contribute, to dream, and to take ownership of our future together. Unity is not just a strategy—it is a spiritual discipline that positions us to receive God’s blessing. [33:53]

- Faithful Risk and the Cost of Inaction
There are always reasons to hesitate, but the greatest risk is doing nothing. If we invest our resources wisely, we give our church a chance to grow and serve for years to come. If we hold back out of fear or indecision, decline is guaranteed. Faithful risk is not reckless; it is the courage to act in hope, trusting that God honors our steps of faith. [48:43]

YOU CAN CLICK ON ANY OF THE BELOW TIME STAMPS TO GO DIRECTLY TO THE VIDEO CHAPTER! ALSO, YOU CAN CLICK THE ABOVE TAB THAT SAYS 'CHATBOT' AND ASK IT QUESTIONS ABOUT WHAT WE COVERED.

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:46] - Opening Remarks and Context
[02:14] - Why a Redevelopment Plan?
[03:05] - Financial Reality and Blessings
[09:07] - Parsonage Sale and Use of Funds
[10:55] - Preparing the Parsonage for Sale
[12:08] - Estimating Potential Proceeds
[14:01] - Timeline and Urgency
[16:11] - Plan Approval Process
[18:49] - Capital Expenses and Restrictions
[21:05] - Program-Based Funding
[24:48] - Redevelopment Plan Drafting
[27:17] - Administrative Support and Technology
[33:53] - Leadership, Vision, and Pastoral Role
[37:42] - Outreach, Discipleship, and Small Groups
[40:09] - Church Center and Group Management
[42:10] - Training, Evaluation, and Web Tools
[44:38] - Social Media, Outreach, and Follow-Up
[48:43] - The Cost of Inaction
[50:21] - Building Infrastructure for Growth
[54:49] - Leveraging Skills and Delegation
[58:31] - Three-Year Plan Overview
[59:42] - Matching Funds and Compensation
[01:04:21] - Pastoral Compensation and Insurance
[01:08:18] - Retirement and Conference Policies
[01:10:51] - Budgeting and Ministry Investments
[01:16:52] - Christian Education and Ministry Needs
[01:20:28] - Closing and Next Steps
[01:23:44] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Facing Reality with Hope and Unity

---
BELOW IS A PERSONAL STUDY GUIDE. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO USE IT DURING THE SUMMER IN PREPARATION FOR OUR FALL LAUNCH.

Bible Reading

1. Ephesians 4:1-6 (ESV)
> I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

2. Matthew 25:14-30 (ESV) – The Parable of the Talents
> (Read as a group or summarize: Jesus tells a story about servants entrusted with resources, and the expectation that they will use them wisely for their master’s purposes.)

---

Observation Questions

1. According to Ephesians 4:1-6, what attitudes and actions are necessary to maintain unity in the church?
2. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), what does the master expect from his servants regarding the resources he gives them?
3. What are some of the specific challenges and blessings our church is facing right now, as described in the sermon? [[03:05]]
4. What are some of the key steps the church is considering to move forward, based on the redevelopment plan? [[14:01]]

---

Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Paul emphasizes humility, gentleness, and patience as essential for unity in Ephesians 4? How might these qualities help us as we make big decisions together?
2. In the Parable of the Talents, what is the difference between the servants who invested their resources and the one who did nothing? How does this relate to the risk of “doing nothing” mentioned in the sermon? [[48:43]]
3. The sermon described the sale of the parsonage as a “spiritual opportunity” and not just a financial decision. What does it mean to see a financial decision as a spiritual one? [[09:07]]
4. The pastor said, “Unity is not just a strategy—it is a spiritual discipline that positions us to receive God’s blessing.” What does it look like for a church to practice unity as a spiritual discipline? [[33:53]]

---

 Application Questions

1. The sermon challenged us to face our reality with hope and honesty. Is there an area of church life (or your own life) where you tend to avoid facing hard truths? What would it look like to face it honestly and with hope? [[03:05]]
2. The redevelopment plan requires everyone’s involvement and input. What is one way you could personally contribute to the vision or planning process? Is there a skill, idea, or resource you could offer? [[33:53]]
3. The pastor talked about the importance of building infrastructure—like hiring a secretary, improving technology, and better follow-up. Have you ever experienced a time when good systems made a church more welcoming or effective? What practical steps could we take to improve our hospitality and follow-up? [[27:17]]
4. The sermon warned that “if we do nothing, decline is certain.” What fears or hesitations might keep us from taking faithful risks as a church? How can we encourage each other to step out in faith? [[48:43]]
5. The plan includes investing in outreach and Christian education. Who is someone in your life (family, friend, neighbor) who might benefit from our church’s outreach or discipleship? How could you invite or include them? [[37:42]]
6. The pastor emphasized that this plan should reflect the collective vision, not just one person’s ideas. How can we listen well to each other and make sure all voices are heard as we move forward? [[33:53]]
7. Looking at the Parable of the Talents, what is one “talent” (resource, gift, or opportunity) God has given you that you want to use more intentionally for the church’s mission in this season? [Matthew 25:14-30]

---

Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Pray for unity, wisdom, and courage as a church. Ask God to help each person see their role in the church’s future and to use the resources He has given for His glory and the good of the community.

Devotional

I'VE ALSO INCLUDED SOME DEVOTIONALS. THEY NEED NOT BE DONE SEQUENTIALLY, BUT THEY ARE HERE FOR YOU IF YOU WOULD LIKE SOME SCRIPTURAL DIRECTION IN SUPPORT OF THE COMING CHURCH YEAR.

Day 1: Stewardship and Wise Planning for the Future
God calls us to be wise stewards of the resources entrusted to us, planning carefully and acting with diligence to ensure the health and mission of the church. The congregation is facing a season where thoughtful financial planning and strategic use of assets are essential, not only to maintain operations but to invest in growth and outreach. This is a time to come together, assess the blessings and challenges, and make decisions that honor God and serve the community. Wise stewardship is not just about numbers, but about aligning resources with God’s purposes and trusting Him to guide each step. [03:05]

Proverbs 21:5 (ESV)
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

Reflection: What is one area of your life—financial, relational, or spiritual—where you need to pause and seek God’s wisdom before making a decision this week?


Day 2: Acting with Urgency and Unity
When God provides an opportunity, it is important to act with both urgency and unity, recognizing that delays can hinder the work He wants to do through us. The church is presented with a unique window to implement a redevelopment plan, and moving forward together, without unnecessary delay, increases the likelihood of a fruitful outcome. This is not about rushing, but about being proactive and intentional, so that the blessings God provides are not squandered by indecision or lack of preparation. Acting in unity ensures that everyone is on the same page, working toward a common goal for the good of the church and the advancement of God’s kingdom. [14:01]

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (ESV)
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Reflection: Who is someone in your church or community you can intentionally partner with this week to move a shared goal forward?


Day 3: Building Infrastructure for Growth and Hospitality
A thriving church requires intentional investment in infrastructure—both people and tools—to ensure that every visitor is welcomed, followed up with, and integrated into the life of the church. Administrative support, effective communication systems, and dedicated volunteers are not luxuries but necessities for a growing, healthy congregation. When the church is prepared to receive and care for new people, it reflects Christ’s love and creates an environment where all can belong and serve. Investing in these systems is an act of faith that God will bring growth as the church prepares the ground. [50:21]

Romans 12:13 (ESV)
Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take this week to make your church or home more welcoming to newcomers?


Day 4: Faithful Investment in Ministry and Mission
Choosing to invest in ministry and mission, rather than simply maintaining the status quo, is an act of faith that God can use our resources to bring transformation and new life. The temptation to hold back or do nothing guarantees decline, but stepping out to fund outreach, discipleship, and Christian education opens the door for God to work in powerful ways. It is not about spending for its own sake, but about sowing into the future God desires for the church and the community. Faithful investment is a declaration that we trust God to multiply what we offer for His glory. [01:08:18]

2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (ESV)
The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.

Reflection: What is one area of ministry or mission you feel God prompting you to support—through your time, talent, or treasure—this month?


Day 5: Hopeful Cooperation and Trust in God’s Provision
Even in seasons of uncertainty, God invites His people to move forward with hope, trusting that He will provide as they work together in faith. The future of the church is not guaranteed by human effort alone, but by God’s faithfulness as the congregation cooperates, plans, and acts in unity. Hope is not wishful thinking, but a confident expectation that God is at work, and that He delights to bless those who seek Him together. As the church steps out in faith, it can do so with the assurance that God’s provision and presence will meet every need. [01:21:08]

Philippians 1:6 (ESV)
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

Reflection: Where do you need to replace anxiety with hope and trust that God will provide as you and your church move forward together?

Quotes

LOOKING FOR SOME SOUNDBITES? LOOK NOR FURTHER!

So that's the problem. Now, the ray of light was the fact that we could have access to this money. But the stipulations is that we have to develop this plan, and then we give it to the DS. We don't have to rush. We could take a month, two weeks, three months, whatever, okay? But, in other words, the DS isn't rushing us. The bishop isn't rushing us. The only rush is the fact that we need to get on this program as soon as possible, because the longer we wait, the longer we're waiting to turn things around, and the longer we wait to turn things around, the lower the likelihood that we get it turned around. [00:13:53] (44 seconds)  #strategicfundallocation Edit Clip

So the answer to that is this. Twofold. One is you can target those to churches in the area. So it's advertising for your church, number one. Will everybody who watches it come? No. Secondly, there will be a link. So it's like when they click that, it will go to the church center page, and it has a link on it that says, plan a visit. Or it can go to the church website that also has a link on it that says, plan a visit. [00:45:01] (36 seconds)  #digitalinvitationstrategy Edit Clip

So in other words, whenever they click on it, they can continue to watch it and not click plan a visit. But they might watch the whole thing and say, I think I want to go. I think I want to see this. If they click plan a visit, now it goes to what we talked about earlier. Now that information goes to the secretary. The secretary says, oh, I've got five plan of visits this week. All right. Who's going to greet these people? [00:45:53] (25 seconds)  #timelyredevelopmenturgency Edit Clip

Our role is to raise up the next generation to be able to do the things that we're doing now. But there's nobody to raise, see, there's nobody to, well, we need to multiply him by 20, that's all we need to do. [00:49:57] (19 seconds)  #multiplyingthenextgeneration Edit Clip

If we do a plan a visit and a person comes and nobody greets them They're not going to come back if we do a plan a visit and a person comes and has a good time and nobody follows up with them They're not going to come back. So the thing is we have to have the infrastructure in place For us to do what we can do and what can we do? We can make phone calls. We can write emails. We can do that. [00:50:47] (27 seconds)  #welcomefollowupculture Edit Clip

When you don't have the administrative infrastructure in place, that's when everyone starts putting fingers at each other. That's why if we have that in place, we won't have that problem anymore. And that and that ultimately falls on me, but that's why I'm doing this now is we don't have the problem going forward. [00:51:46] (16 seconds)  #buildingstronginfrastructure Edit Clip

So what I'm saying is this, is the $5 ,000 is part of the redevelopment plan because the redevelopment plan, at least for the first year, requires my presence. And I cannot, I can't be able to stay here at $33 ,000 a year because it's below poverty level. Am I, am I making sense? Does that mean I don't, I don't like you guys? you. It doesn't mean that. I'm just saying, okay. I'm just saying it's a number, it's just a numbers thing. It's reality. [01:06:55] (29 seconds)  #visiontostrategy Edit Clip

I am hopeful and i'm hopeful in a lot of ways um i think that that you're a good church and um i bragged i brag about you guys all the time so i wanted to say that again but um um i'm i'm i feel very fortunate that they allow me to serve you. [01:22:38] (22 seconds) Edit Clip