Have You Taken Your “Pulse” Lately?

In last month’s article, I shared a tool that I have used for many years to assist me in leading congregations. It is called the “pulse” health assessment. When we listen to our body’s vital signs, we can determine the adjustments necessary to become healthier.

Every year, I get a “physical” from my primary care physician. That physical includes vital readings and lab work. During my appointment the doctor reveals what the lab results are. I then have a choice to listen to what the doctor prescribes and progress to health or keep doing what I have been doing and watch the results of future lab work decline even more.

Look at the “pulse” images included in this article. This sample radar/spider graph reveals some areas of concern presented by the church body’s responses. It is necessary that a sampling of 25% or more congregants participate in the survey so that we can see real results.

This particular sampling shows some stronger areas – worship, fellowship, discipleship, context, and stewardship, as well as those that are in crucial need of attention and coaching.

For instance, this “Mobilization” sampling speaks of preparing and mobilizing your congregation utilizing their giftedness and skillsets.
 
When coaching this congregation’s leadership team, we share ways to determine giftedness and pathways to engage within and outside of the church building. The leadership team then implements those tools they are comfortable with.

When a congregation receives its “pulse” results, it chooses to accept or ignore the recommendations given. The goal is to become a healthier congregation. It is recommended that a congregation takes its “pulse” once per year for three years and then every three years.

I would love to help your congregation take its pulse. This is a free assessment with invaluable results.

Interested? Contact me at mjones@scbo.org and simply ask about the pulse assessment. Imagine what it would look like to be healthier a year from now.