Reflections on  the book Advanced Strategic Planning by Aubrey Malphurs...it's a book that provides a new model for church and ministry leaders.  Certainly some food for thought.

Culture Audit

Though the congregation may not be aware of it, every church has a unique culture.  Congregational culture is defined as the way we do things around here.  It consists of such things as traditions, heroes, expectations, norms, stories, rituals, symbols, rewards, values, and so on.  A congregation's culture ties its people together and gives meaning and purpose to it life.  It provides a sense of identity and stability and sets boundaries.  Leaders gain a sense of the congregational culture when they listen well.  They must listen to the talk going on in the church's hallways, parking lots, and rest rooms to gain valuable insight into the culture.  Answer the following questions that will help you to articulate your culture:

+    Identify some of our church's traditions, both good and bad.

+    Who are our church's heroes?  (evangelists, teachers, pastors)

+    What are our people's expectations?  (conversions, good Bible teaching, kids' programs, parking)

+    What are the norms and standards?  (do's and don'ts)

+    What stories do people tell?  What are our myths and memories?

+    What are the church's rituals?  (retreats, vacation Bible school testimonies)

+    What are our symbols?  (baptisms, communion, pictures, tapestries)

+    What does the church reward?

+    Do we support or resist change?

One common people obstacle is the way the church thinks.  What is thinkable and open for discussion and what is not?  Others are the way you solve problems, learn from your mistakes, and what you condone and do not condone.  Some leaders condone poor work performance or an abusive employee.  The result is terrible morale.  Consider the following questions:

+    What is not thinkable or even discussable around here?

+    Do we face and deal with our problems?  What problems do we avoid?

+    Do we learn from our mistakes?  Why or why not?

+    What kinds of behavior do we condone that hurt people?

+    Do we have good or bad morale?

+    Do we have any traditions that are blocking effective ministry?

+    What are other people obstacles that we face?