One of the breakout sessions that I attended at The Sticks Conference last week was Dwight Mason's "Transitioning a Small-Town Church". I thought I'd record those notes here so that I have them if I ever need to refer back to them.
I was very impressed with Dwight and the leadership skills I gleaned from my short time listening to him. As I've attempted to transition FFC over the past 7 years I'm glad to see that I was already accomplishing several of these points but realize I need to intentionally work on so many more of these areas...
1. Cultivate a strong vision
2. Deliberately build morale (encourage people)
3. Consistently, sincerely affirm the congregation
4. Build a good name in the community
5. Concentrate on the strength of your community
6. Highlight ministries regularly and make heroes of the minsters leading them
7. Plan your people investment well (equip people)
8. Emphasize excellence within your capabilities
9. Plan "big days" within the church calendar (build momentum)
10. Get organized
11. Let leaders lead
12. Making disciples is our primary responsibility
13. Focus outward
14. Be willing to lose a little to win big (choose your battles wisely)
15. Continually look forward
Other takeaways:
Don't set goals that are dependent on others, set goals for yourself; set dreams dependent on others.
As a pastor be sure to walk slowly through the crowd; it shows that you care.
Address the straw men.
Prioritize people.
Establish prayer as a foundation.
Admit to wrong decisions quickly.
It seems like you are doing all of these things. Good job!
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