This is a collection of three tools to get your congregation talking about their current reality and the direction that they should aim for in the future. The three tools may be used separately as 40 minute team building exercises for your church board. They also are appropriate for planning retreats. If the tools are presented in a workshop or retreat setting, they should be followed up on three occasions during the church's regular board meetings.

   These resources are available without charge, I only ask that you email me with an evaluation of the material and your congregation's experience. 


I. The first tool, Hospice-Hospital-Hospitality, was developed by Ed Kail (Iowa UMC Conference church consultant).  This tool talks about the culture or behavioral mid-point of a congregation. It introduces three ‘H’ words as categories of congregational behavior. Each ‘H’ has its own problems and opportunities. Changing one’s culture requires intentional leadership.  HHH Powerpoint        HHH Slide notes

II. The second tool, The Spiral Rule, helps people to understand the mechanics of church vitality and growth. The Spiral Rule effects every church, small to large. Keeping this rule in mind aids church leaders as they plan.  Spiral Powerpoint    Spiral Slide notes

III. The third tool, The Phase Tool, talks about change in the church. It introduces three categories or ‘phases’ to help people talk about their experience of congregational change. It is the most in depth of the tools, and deserves extra attention and follow up.
    Phase Tool Powerpoint       Phase Slide notes

  The Church Transition Workbook is a good follow up to the Phase tool.

   Reality Check 101 follow up Resource Guide 

Each tool consists of a Powerpoint and presenter's slide notes. The presenter should familiarize themselves with the material so that what they say compliments the text of each slide. Encourage open discussion during the breakout times. Be careful not to influence the decision the group arrives at in each tool. Permit people to arrive at “in-between” answers, provided they are specific about what things indicate those realities. For example they might say, “We are mostly still in transition, but I see us deepening in the area of...”

The following handout is to be used with small groups and those without access to Powerpoint projection: Amish Powerpoint