Transformation
Together as a community, we have been undergoing a process of transformation as we consider the direction of our Ministry and Mission. The process began in July 2023, and is ongoing. On this page, you’ll find a summary of the current work being done as well as contact information and links to past updates and recordings. A description of the full process can be found here - link to page
SUMMARY
Tranformation has moved through Discovery and Ideation phases, and is currently Protyping. Action Teams have formed to develop 5 priority projects:
LEAD Training Program - 3 year training program to equip current and future leaders with interpersonal, ministerial and leadership skills. A cohort-based program that includes in-person retreats, online learning and discussion, and participation in church events and ministries. The program will include existing material and new, with a target to commence around Easter 2025.
Coaching & Mentoring Program- A structured and intentional mentoring program designed to provide guidance, support, and resources that enable participants to enhance their leadership capabilities and deepen their faith. The program operates through scheduled one-on-one meetings (phone/in-person). These regular interactions are supplemented by workshops or gatherings for mentors to develop their mentoring skills. Mentor recruitment and training will take place in late 2024.
Networked Members Ministry Model - This project seeks to develop a new way of connecting members, and coordinate ministries, in a National networked model. The model does not rely on congregations to be at the centre of ministry, but instead looks at new ways of connecting members to pastoral care, education and learning, leadership development, service in ministry, and daily discipleship, beginning with a Victorian pilot program in late 2024.
Digital Communications Strategy - This project will consider the holistic digital needs of the organisation. The Action Team will undertake analysis and planning to prioritise the development of infrastructure, content, tools and resources that will support the mission of the church in Australia. Including pathways for seekers to connect with the church, strengthen connection between members, connecting priesthood with members in need, support ongoing education and content engagement, aid in collaboration of groups and teams.
Music & Spirituality Camp - This camp is an opportunity for musicians and aspiring musicians to be immersed in music and engaged in skill development, composition, expanding repertoire, new songs and arrangements, as well as an opportunity to record and share music with the broader community. A pilot camp is being explored in Victoria for 2025.
One critical shift was recognised that underpins all 5 projects and the process of transformation as a whole. The shift from congregations being at the centre of a disciple's life (delivering a multitude of ministries, including education and leadership opportunities), to a new model where discipleship is the centre of a community's life (with disciples engaging in opportunities from around the Mission Centre). 70% of church members in Australia are now not affiliated with a congregation. Instead, they live out their faith, discipleship, ministry and leadership outside the congregational structure. Increasingly, these members are seeking opportunities to learn and serve in non-congregational settings. We do not yet understand what this shift will mean for our church ecology as we adapt to the needs, lifestyles, and dispersed locations of members today but we will continue to discern and explore the possibilities.
CONTACT
Ministry & Mission Steering Committee
Annie Falcke, Jenny Robinson, Kristie Woodward, Peter Lonsdale, Robert Thompson
transformingministryandmission@gmail.com
To view the full transformation process - click here
To view all our transformation recordings and resources- click here