Synopses & Reviews
A proven program for church renewal that has brought new vitality to thousands of congregations.
Why do some churches thrive and play vital roles in their communities while others struggle to retain members and stay financially sound? How can churches today build on their strengths as they move forward to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century?
In this groundbreaking study, Kennon Callahan identifies the twelve essential characteristics of successful, growing churches and offers all congregations a way to unlock their potential for effective ministry. These twelve keys to an effective church include
** a concrete, well-defined mission
** dynamic worship
** small groups that build community
** a few strong, well-selected programs and activities
** solid financial resources
Callahan examines each of the twelve keys in depth. And he provides solid, practical guidelines and tools to help any church assess itself in each key area, correct deficiencies, build on existing strengths, and track its overall progress. The Twelve Keys program balances practical planning with theological understanding to help churches function more effectively as they seek to grow and better serve their members.
Twelve Keys to an Effective Church is regarded as the most useful and comprehensive long-range planning resource available. Since it was first published in 1983, hundreds of thousands of churches have used this program to strengthen and grow their congregations. Drawing on nearly forty years of consulting experience with churches of all sizes and denominations--mainline and evangelical--Callahan has provided a tested and proven approach to church renewal that will bring new vitality to congregations of the twenty-first century.
"A valuable contribution to the task of congregational long-range planning." --The Christian Century
Review
"The church has had to wait too long for this indispensable material. Dr. Callahan's careful attention to detail and practical church programming is balanced by a depth of theological understanding and an earnest desire to help the church move from maintenance to mission. This book will give direction to the church for many years to come." --George Morris, Institute for World Evangelism
"[An] excellent book for churches that are contemplating renewal.... [Callahan] understands the need for objective, measurable, and workable methods." --The Presbyterian Survey
"Callahan has produced a book...which should, for many years, be an effective guide for local congregations.... The book is realistic and does not place upon a congregation impossible demands, but holds to realistic hopes.... This book is useful for pastors and employed staff. It can be used by the various organizations within the church.... Each organization would do well to read [it]." --Perkins Journal
"This very readable book offers a step-by-step, how-to approach to its subject.... Clear, concise,...[it] must certainly be judged a valuable contribution to the task of congregational long-range planning." --The Christian Century
Synopsis
Tested with thousands of users, this in-depth study guide discusses new and useful ways to interpret and work through Twelve Keys to an Effective Church. It also discusses the key principles outlined in Twelve Keys and their biblical connections.
TIMING: Purchase one book for each member of your planning group
Synopsis
TIMING: Purchase one book for each member of your planning group
About the Author
KENNON L. CALLAHAN, -- researcher, professor, and pastor -- is one of today's most sought-after church consultants. He has worked with thousands of congregations around the world and has helped tens of thousands of church leaders and pastors through his dynamic workshops and seminars. Author of many books, he is best known for his groundbreaking study Twelve Keys to an Effective Church, which has formed the basis for the Mission Growth Movement, a widely acclaimed program for church renewal. Callahan has earned the B.A., M.Div., S.T.M., and Ph.D. degrees. His doctorate is in Systematic Theology. He has served both rural and urban congregations in Ohio, Texas, and Georgia and taught for many years at Emory University. Ken and his wife of over forty years, Julie, have two children, Ken and Mike, and three grandchildren, Blake, Mason, and Brice. They enjoy the outdoors, hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
Table of Contents
Introduction, Part I: Planning and Hope.
Introduction, Part II: Mission and Success.
1. Specific, Concrete Missional Objectives.
2. Pastoral and Lay Visitation.
3. Corporate, Dynamic Worship.
4. Significant Relational Groups.
5. Strong Leadership Resources.
6. Streamlined Structure and Solid, Participatory Decision Making.
7. Several Competent Programs and Activities.
8. Open Accessibility.
9. High Visibility.
10. Adequate Parking, Land, and Landscaping.
11. Adequate Space and Facilities.
12. Solid Financial Resources.
Conclusions: Principles and Priorities in Strategic Long-Range Planning.