July 2019 Vestry Papers: Strategic Visioning
Dear Friends,
Strategic visioning can be transformational for a congregation. The process typically begins with an acknowledgment of where we are and setting a goal of where we want to be. What do we want to become? How can we accomplish it? What roadblocks might we expect to encounter and how do we tackle them? In this issue, we bring you answers to your strategic visioning questions and invite you to look at the process through a fresh lens.
What occurs at the intersection of the sacramental and the strategic? In Stretching our Strategic Imagination – Part 1, Lauren Grubaugh challenges the Church to think in radical new ways about transitioning from an institution to a movement.
Beginning a strategic visioning process? In Eight Visioning Mistakes to Avoid, Melissa Rau lists common roadblocks that can slow down or halt a congregation’s strategic visioning goals and offers advice on how to avoid them.
What role does financial strategy play in strategic visioning? In Through All Kinds of Weather, Anne Vickers shares the Episcopal Church’s unique five-step system of integrated support to transform us into mission-driven, financially-secure and sustainable congregations.
Are you feeling stuck with your traditional six-year strategic plan? In Real-Time Strategy, Louise Baietto and Leslie Pendleton explain the importance of real-time strategic thinking and how ECF’s Strategic Solutions program can help.
Do you use the Vestry Resource Guide? Strong lay and clergy leadership teams are at the heart of healthy, thriving Episcopal congregations. ECF's Vestry Resource Guide contains information and recommendations for congregations of all shapes and sizes to help vestry members and clergy work together to become an effective, transformational leadership team. Purchase copies for your vestry here.
To learn more about ECF and our programs, please visit our website.
Faithfully,
Charis Bhagianathan
Editor, ECF Vital Practices