Table of Contents
Introduction 7
Part 1 Prepare to Sail! The Preparation for Strategic Planning
1 Preparing the Navigator: A Prelaunch Checklist 23
2 Preparing the Crew: Readiness for the Process 54
3 Preparing the Boat: Developing the Strategy 91
Part 2 Set the Course! The Process of Strategic Planning
4 Developing a Biblical Mission: What We Are Supposed to Be Doing 105
5 Developing a Compelling Vision: The Kind of Church We Envision 128
6 Discovering Core Values: Why We Do What We Do 145
7 Introducing the Ministry Strategy: How We Accomplish the Mission and Vision 167
8 Reaching the Church's Community: Strategy Activity 1 175
9 Making Mature Disciples: Strategy Activity 2 195
10 Building a Ministry Team: Strategy Activity 3 209
11 Assessing the Ministry Setting: Strategy Activity 4 236
12 Raising and Managing Finances: Strategy Activity 5 255
Part 3 Pursue the Course! The Practice of Strategic Planning
13 Launching the Boat: Implementing the Strategy 285
14 Evaluating the Course: How We Are Doing 299
Appendixes
A Readiness for Change Inventory 313
B Leader-Manager Audit 316
C Covenant of Commitment 318
D Strategic Development Worksheet 319
E Implementation Barriers Audit 326
F Vision Statements 328
G Vision Style Audit 333
H Values Statements 334
I Core Values Audits 343
J Community Survey 345
K Character Assessments 347
L Ministry Description 351
M Setting: Creating a Welcoming Environment 352
N Sample Evaluations 354
Notes 361
Index 365
