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Basic Components and Process Flow

Self-Assessment Procedure. Congregational leaders use a LIFE Readiness Assessment tool to ascertain congregational readiness for participation in the LIFE process.

 

Congregational Covenant of Participation. Congregations enter into a congregational covenant to participate in the process, with approval of the appropriate decision-making body of the congregation. A covenant has proved to be an essential ingredient in helping congregations keep their commitment as they work toward completion of the process.

 

Process Leadership. Congregational leaders select two congregational co-coordinators to guide the church through the LIFE process. These co-coordinators serve as ex officio members of the church board (preferably with vote). The pastor is a key facilitator and "up-front" leader for the process. The pastor also assists the co-coordinators in fulfilling their responsibilities. The congregation selects a local advisor/encourager/mentor to help them keep on track and to assist with leadership of the annual growth workshop. This might be a person from a church in the area which has completed LIFE or Passing On the Promise and is familiar with the process. Finally, the congregation appoints a self-study task force to complete a community and congregational profile.

The LIFE process is built around four study/action modules. Module themes are: Discovering a Vision, Welcoming New People, Sharing Our Faith, and Expanding Christian Community. Designed to last three to four months, these modules include three common elements: 1) a theme emphasis event to introduce the module emphasis and to build interest; 2) a 13-week adult study curriculum designed for use in adult Sunday school classes and/or special study groups (may also be used in older youth classes); and 3) a congregational outreach activity to put the learning into action.

During the fall of the first year, a task force uses a self-study tool provided with the first study/action module. The self-study helps the congregation discover new opportunities for creative and caring outreach as unique strengths and needs in their congregation and community are identified. After completing the profile, the task force completes an analysis of the findings. Then an outside consultant reviews the findings and makes suggestions. The findings are used in later congregation-wide planning for outreach.

At the conclusion of each year of the LIFE process, the congregation conducts a church wide growth workshop. This workshop provides an opportunity to incorporate the learning from the previous study/action curriculum units and the self-study research in devising specific ministry and outreach plans for the coming year.

Where possible, topical seminars are held in areas where several congregations are involved simultaneously in the LIFE process. Topics chosen are broadly applicable to outreach and growth themes. Churches and individuals not involved in the LIFE process are always welcome to attend and are warmly invited to do so. A time for mutual encouragement and support for LIFE churches may be scheduled as part of the seminar.

This special event serves as a bridge from the conclusion of the LIFE process to a congregational evangelism lifestyle that will continue into the future.