It seems that the church is experiencing what is typical for many churches today-limited staff, limited resources and a lack of clear direction. There seems to be some chaos, confusion and frustration among the staff and members. Aside from the diminishing congregation, the vehicles repairs are necessary and church expenses must be paid. There is also concern regarding the diminishing nest egg being used to maintain present expenses. The bright spot is the possibility of establishing an additional source of income with a daycare center. The community demographics leave ample opportunity to grow a very diverse congregation of believers.
I would want
to know where the 46 members not in worship are. Has anyone from the church
contacted them or gone to see them. Are they ill or injured or have they been
offended by the church in any way. My priority is always people. I would also
want to know the extent of the needed repairs of the vehicle and the cost. I’d
need to see the churches accounting to determine where the budget gaps are and
how they can be filled. I would want a written proposal (proforma included)
from the young lady wishing to establish a daycare center.
Ask questions.
The more information I have the more thoughtful and creative I can be when
seeking solutions. For starters I would
plan to call email or visit those 46 missing members. I would perform a cost
benefit analysis to determine whether it worth repairing the van or seeking
another solutions. Look at the churches income and expenses to see where we can
cut costs or possibly increase revenue. After
I looked at those things I would wait until after the meeting with leadership
to address the other concerns. I would have Jose schedule a meeting with
Marjorie to discuss her idea, then with meet with Mary to inform her that no
immediate changes to worship are expected. Changing worship would be detrimental
as there are more pressing concerns. Finally, I would sit down with Ralph to assuage his
concern and ensure him that we will work diligently to keep the lights on.