KAIROS Courses

April 26 - 30, 2010
CONGREGATIONAL BEST PRACTICES

In this course, participants will learn of congregational outreach strategies that are effective in a variety of ministry settings. Topics addressed will include:

• Lutheran Evangelism in an Increasingly Non-denominational and Secular Culture
  Participants will consider current cultural trends and how they complicate our outreach as mainline denominational congregations.  What types of congregations are thriving in the current mission context we face as pastors?  When does our ministry style compromise the substance of the Gospel message we proclaim?  When is it appropriate to launch a new, perhaps non-traditional ministry initiative?
  
• Making Outreach Your Congregation's Top Priority
  How can community service become an effective outreach strategy?  The "Emerging Church" movement has brought a greater awareness of the importance of churches addressing the social/economic needs of their local community.  How can your members be mobilized to use their gifts in this kind of ministry?
  
• Understanding How Congregational Size Impacts Your Ministry Challenges and Opportunities
  The emergence of mega churches has impacted congregations of all sizes.  What can mid-sized and larger congregations offer that a small congregation cannot?  What can a small congregation offer that a larger church cannot?
  
• Starting (and/or growing) Your Congregation-wide Small Groups Ministry (two sessions)
  Participants will explore the "nuts and bolts" of making small groups an integral part of congregational life.  The benefits are virtually unlimited!  Discover how small groups can change the very character of your congregation, deepening the faith commitment of your people.
  
• Worship as One of Your Primary Outreach Strategies
  This session will include a "music lab" where participants will sight-read some of the more popular and inspirational contemporary Christian songs.  Free copies of the music (with guitar chords and keyboard arrangement) will be distributed.  We will also discuss principles for song/hymn selection and presentation.
  
• Effective Financial Stewardship in a Tough Economy
  How can congregations encourage giving when the economy is this weak?    Pastor Brandt's congregation is now coming to the end of its second, consecutive three-year capital campaign.  What can we learn about on-going stewardship from the outside professionals who lead capital campaigns?
  
• Staffing for Mission and Outreach
  One of the most under-utilized staffing strategies is the hiring of part-time lay professionals.  Learn how this can dramatically strengthen your congregation's ministry without creating a budgetary crisis.
  
• Youth and Children's Ministries—For Congregations of Every Size
  A congregation's current and future vitality often depends on a healthy ministry for children and youth.  This sometimes means dedicating a disproportionate percentage of your congregation's resources to this ministry.  What are the keys to creating an effective youth and children's ministry; even when you serve a smaller congregation?
  
• Ministry to and for Younger Generations
  The median age of ELCA members is significantly older than the U.S. population.  What are some ways to connect with nesting stage families, single parents and younger adults in general?
  
• Strategic Planning for Your Congregation's Future
  A specific strategy will be offered for engaging your congregational leaders in future ministry planning.  Participants will also have an opportunity to complete a "Best-case Scenario" exercise, formulating some of the dreams you have for your congregation over the next five years.