Five-Year Planning Document 2011-15

Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak

Norton, Ohio

Spring - Summer 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Five-Year Planning Document 2011-15

Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak

Norton, Ohio

Spring-Summer 2011

1. Introduction 4

2. The Planning Process 4

3. Overview of Vision, Mission, & Purposes 5

4. Summary of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats 6

5. Summary of Current & Future Ministries 8

6. Summary of Culture & Leadership 9

7. Summary of Vision & Future Growth and Sustainability 10

8. Plans

1. Plans for People

A.1. Plan a Process for Interim Pastorate 12

A.2. Plan for Ministry Leadership Development 13

A.3. Provide for a Pastor Relations Committee (PRC) 14

A.4. Plan for Replacing Key Positions 15

A.5. Plan for Lay Leadership Development 16

2. Plans for Property

B.1. Plan to Address the Needs of the Rental Property and Grounds 17

B.2. Plan for Physical Plant Maintenance and Repairs 18

B.3. Plan for Physical Plant Improvements toward Accessibility & Compliance 19

3. Plans for Doing Ministry

C.1. Plan to Build on Theme and Asset of “Sacred Place for Healing” 20

C.2. Plan to Assess Ministry Teams toward Improvement 21

C.3. Plan for Transportation to Worship Services 22

C.4. Plan for Congregational Spiritual Formation 23

C.5. Plan to Increase Visibility & Outreach with Groups using GLO Facilties 24

4. Plans for Communicating Ministry

D.1. Plan to Prepare and Store Ministries‘ Information 25

D.2. Plan to Communicate Ministries Effectively 26

D.3. Plan to Enhance Website Features 27

5. Plans for Growth

E.1. Plan to Expand Themes in Promotional Materials 28

E.2. Plan to Promote ONA Status while Remaining Family-Friendly 29

E.3. Plan for Ongoing Financial Needs 30

9. Summary 31

10. Appendices

1. Announcement of Planning Process 33

2. Dialog Agenda 1 34

3. Dialog Agenda 2 36

4. Dialog Agenda 3 38

5. Dialog Agenda 4 39

6. GLO Ministry Summary 41

7. GLO Cultural Markers 44

8. GLO Ministry Team Chairs and Contact Information 45

9. Notes for Website Enhancement Committee 46

10. Constitution of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak, Ohio 48

11. History of Pastoral Leadership at Grace UCC 60

Introduction

Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak (GLO) was originally founded by a congregation of German farmers in 1845 who were members of the German Reformed Church, which eventually became a part of the United Church of Christ in 1956, along with the German Evangelical Church, the Congregational Church, and several independent Christian churches.

This church worshipped between the years of 1834 and 1845 with Lutherans in a single, two-story location situated near the northeast corner of the intersection of Cleveland-Massillon and Akron-Wadsworth Roads, know as Bates’ (or Bates) Corners. The hamlet of Loyal Oak was one of several that over time were merged into what is now Norton, Ohio. The two congregations separated to form their own churches in 1845. More about this early history can be read in In Remembrance of Me, prepared for the 165^th anniversary of the congregation and the 125^th anniversary of the building (2010), called Founders’ Day.

The main building was built by the congregants in 1865, and the original cornerstone commemorating September 12, 1865 still in place. The sanctuary is simple, plastered and painted in off-white hues, and typical of the interiors of rural Reformed churches of the period. The architecture would best be described as American carpenter Gothic, with an asymmetrical floor plan, front porch and belfry and steeple; the main church building is wood-frame construction and the white clapboard exterior is common among structures of the period in the Connecticut Western Reserve. The original bell is still in use today. The church is situated a few hundred feet south from the stagecoach stop at Loyal Oak on the former Akron-Wooster Pike, also know as Akron-Wadsworth Road.

The church has been served by 20 pastors in its 166 year history; these names are listed in the Addenda of this document.

Though having fewer than 200 active members, the church is active in its community and serves many members and non-members in many ways through its many ministries. As discussed in later sections, ministry and prayer are cornerstones to this congregation’s profile. The church has experience growth in recent years, attracting younger members who seek service through ministry. The church declared an ONA (Open and Affirming) Status over 25 years ago. Dozens of persons are served in the building weekly with scout troops and numerous twelve-step programs, as well as other outreach events.

The church leadership is administered through the efforts of the Church Consistory, and there is a Constitution which guides the ministries and purposes of the church and provides direction and process to the Consistory.

The Planning Process

The planning process was one which came out of a discussion with Consistory members that sought to make improvements toward strengthening ministry and toward preparing for the future. The planning process was sponsored and supported by the Consistory, and lead by the Planning Steering Committee made up of persons of all walks of life and varied history with the church. The Committee met monthly throughout the seven months of planning, and conducted four congregational Dialogs to which all members were invited. Attendance at the Dialogs ranged from 12 to 26, based on the topic. The four Dialogs were formed around the following themes: (1) Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats; (2) Current & Future Ministries; (3) Culture & Leadership; and, (4) Vision and Future Growth & Sustainability.

Members of the Planning Steering Committee and activities in the church are listed below:

• David Evans: Newer member; Choir; Brass Ensemble; Property Ministry

• Patti Himelrigh: Newer member; Co-Editor of Plan

• Don Kaser: Music Director; Brass Ensemble; Accompanist

• Jack Leatherman: Newer member; Web Master; Evangelism Ministry

• Bob Murgatroyd: Long-term member; former Consistory member; Communion/ Worship Arts Ministry

• Lori Oliver: Newer member; Evangelism Ministry

• Von Over: Consistory member; Property Ministry Chair

• Lynn Reynolds: Consistory President; Evangelism Ministry; Administrative Ministry; Care & Comfort Ministry Chair; 12-Step Group Liaison

• Mary Ann Schumacher: Long-term member; Church Office Administrative Assistant; Spiritual Formation Ministry/ Nursery Coordinator; Office Volunteer

• John Seever: Long-term member; Consistory member

• Rick Thome: Evangelism Ministry Chair; Librarian; Plan Co-Editor; Dialog Facilitator

• Janet VonGunten: Long-term UCC member/ Transferee; Consistory member

• Daniel Young: Pastor; Choir; member of multiple ministries; Consistory member

Announcement for the Planning Process and Agendas for Congregation’s Dialogs are found in the Appendices of this document as Appendixes A-E.

Overview of Vision, Mission, & Purposes

From the Church Constitution, the Vision, Mission and Purposes of the Church are the following:

• Vision – To embody the ministry, message, and hope of Jesus Christ

• Mission – To empower people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ

• Purposes – To emulate the ministry, message, and hope of Jesus Christ

Threaded through these is the overarching intention of being, and of valuing our being, a place of sacred healing for all who seek the Grace of God in Jesus Christ. This language was added to the Constitution in 2010 by Consistory vote. The Constitution is included in the document as Appendix J.

The three action statements all have verbs beginning with the letter e, so a suggestion was to make E³ a branding logo in some manner for Grace United Church, just as the comma is the logo for the God is Still Speaking awareness campaign. In one of the congregational dialogs, the attendees affirmed that the vision, mission, and purpose statements are sound and appropriate, providing directon to the church’s ministries.

Summary of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats

Strengths

Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak consists of passionate members who enthusiastically devote their time and talents in support of the mission and vision of the church. The friendliness of the individuals demonstrates a sense of belonging that is outwardly visible in their welcome embrace of strangers and fellow members.

The diversity of the church is expressed in an open and affirming manner and is evident within a mixture of age, sexual orientation, and family structure. This diversity carries through to individuals by respecting and appreciating one another’s beliefs in theological, cultural and social aspects.

Volunteerism within the community and the many active ministries that are supported continue to grow beyond the bounds that would typically be encountered from a church of our size. The historical significance of the church is well know within the surrounding community, and the membership encourages other organizations (such as Family Promise housing for the temporarily homeless, 12-Step Groups, Girl Scouts, and several others) to utilize our building to serve the greater good. These and other efforts are supported and encouraged by our dedicated Consistory, whose collaborative work speaks to the church’s mission and purposes.

The church is fortunate to have strong leadership based in ministry from the Pastor, who acts as a role model in guiding the congregation on the path of Jesus Christ. The church has a strong foundation of support in all aspects of ministry, and manages on a “faith-based” budget which results in accomplishing even more each year than our financial plan.

Weaknesses

All property requires ongoing maintenance and upgrades to function in a modern environment. This is especially true when dealing with a 125 year old historical church, and attached 60 year old educational wing and fellowship hall. The time, physical effort and monetary support continue to challenge the membership and financial reserves. Along with these structures, a rental property next to the church is in need of upgrades to justify the expected potential rental income.

There is a concern over the lack of youth within our membership to carry on the ministries and direction that our congregation has taken. Attendance of youth varies with seasons, and when one set of children move away from the church, another replaces them, but the levels are fairly constant, if low. More new members have joined recently than in the past, and these bring new ideas and new energy; many come to find themselves in some sort of service to others.

Tradition is valued at this church which sometimes can make us less likely to move away from one thing that we have always done, or may explain why some individuals are hesitant to try something new, when familiarity supplies a layer of certainty if not comfort.

Since the size of the congregation is relatively small, there is a tendency for a small group of individuals to support several projects on a regular basis instead of the workload being spread throughout the congregation. Although the supporting members do not complain, some might feel they are stretched too thin, and a mechanism to encourage additional help needs to be found. This unbalance is also evident in some key positions (e.g. choir director, treasurer, and pianist) and can pose a risk if the individual serving that position decides not to function in this role any longer.

Lastly, it is likely that our Pastor will be retiring during the planning cycle. The membership will need to find a replacement, and there is concern that how we fund the position would not be attractive to the type of person needed for this position, although recent efforts have been put into place to move the compensation package closer to the denomination’s standard. Appendix K provides a historical perspective on pastoral leadership at the church.

Opportunities

We are very fortunate that our church building is an attractive historical structure on a main thoroughfare. The well-kept building and property, coupled with the volume of automotive traffic, helps to draw visitors in for services, as well as for special events (e.g. community dinners, rummage sales, etc.).

Our regularly scheduled community events (e.g. Family Promise, Girl Scouts, 12-Step programs, youth groups, and local election precincts, etc.) draw the public to our location. We also have a great many missions and events at other locations than our church in which our members participate, and our name and enthusiasm is carried into the community at large.

Statistically the majority of new members learns about our church through our church’s web site, or is familiar with the church because of community meetings which use our building nearly every day of the week. Appendix I offers some notes for enhancing the website in the future.

Our church is known internally as a sacred place of healing in which all persons are always welcome to share God’s love, and we desire to let the world know this, as well.

Threats

The budget for operating our church intentionally climbs each year as operating expenses, many of which are out of our control, increase. There is a concern that with our limited income based (given our membership size) that we could someday not meet our payment obligations without growth in members and growth in giving. Similarly financial reserves should be bolstered to cover an emergency repair of the roof, plumbing problem, or even a change in local laws which might require our church to tie into the public water source at our expense.

Some members are concerned that our church having an open and affirming policy and being served by a gay minister might discourage potential new members from becoming interested in joining.

Summary of Current & Future Ministries 

The discussion of current and future ministries was guided by a review of our Vision, Mission and Purpose statements as outlined in our Constitution. This provided the framework for the entire dialog.

The Vision, Mission, Purpose, as well as a revised Constitution, were written around 2006. In 2010, after consideration of building use and current ministry, it was decided by Congregants and Consistory to add into the Constitution that we are and are becoming a Sacred Place of Healing. This aspect to our vision and purposes has been translated into a number of new initiatives and projects, and provides a touchstone for project planning.

The discussion clarified that our church is ministry-based whereas other churches (and our church in the past) shared the characteristics of being more socially-oriented, internally-focused, and family-oriented. While these continue to have value to us, doing the ministry of the church is foundational to our being a church. We are a church where mission is lived out. Our focus is on being the presence of Christ in our community, and wherever members go to do ministry.

How ministries are created was discussed. Ministry teams are defined in the Constitution and are the primary resource for providing support and managing other ministries. Not only are new ministries created by existing Ministry Teams, but also by individual congregants. Very little limits the creation of a new ministry, unless there is a financial need to support it, then this is put before the Consistory and voted upon.

One suggestion from the dialog is that there needs to be some type of mechanism for input / evaluation of ministry, and that perhaps even needs to be a visual ‘family tree’ of ministry opportunities, so members might easily contact and/or a join group doing ministry. Also suggested was to list new ministries in the Sunday bulletin, providing a contact person‘s name. Current Minsitry Team Chairs can be found in Appendix H.

Overall there was general agreement that the current Vision, Mission and Purpose serve us well, and that E³ (Embody, Empower, and Emulate) each respectively from the Vision, Mission and Purpose statements of the Constitution, should be visible/ available in several places inside the church.

There is a general consensus regarding some difficulty in keeping track of all that goes on at our church. It was suggested that the church calendar be mailed/displayed/emailed quarterly. How we keep the church informed of all the different ministries was considered and suggestions, found below, were offered to improve how we communicate ministry.

A discussion was held about the wide variety of ministries we do, and put into a table within categories (see Appendix F). Ministry was defined as serving each other, serving the community, and building relationship, whether inside or outside the church. Simply stated, Ministry, for us, is being and carrying the presence of Christ.

Future ministries were discussed with some of the possibilities being researching lay ministry certification (building disciples,) planning more small group studies (building relationship and spirituality,) participating in pastoral visitation classes at Akron General Hospital (building care and comfort, providing pastoral support,) and conducting or organizing House Church opportunities(building relationship, spirituality.)

Among the many ideas which emerged from this dialog were the following in part:

• Design posters or banners with “E³: Embody Christ, Emulate Christ, Empower Discipleship” message

• Promote printed material with succinct value statements from the Constitution.

• Write up a process of how ministries are born and distribute to congregation

• Create a poster of the GLO “Ministries Tree”

• Construct a wall-mounted wooden note card holder with 12 separate slots, each holding note cards for each ministry and volunteer opportunities, ministry description and ‘jobs’ available. Call it “GLO Ministries Menu”

• Create a name tag system for Sunday worship

• Conduct a monthly ‘Ministry Moment’ during the service to explain a ministry and volunteer opportunities available with that ministry

• Produce Quarterly GLO Event Calendar

• Develop a Transportation Pool or a grant for a van as a new ministry.

• Establish a semi-annual gathering of Ministry Team and Event Coordinators to review calendar and to discuss new volunteer possibilities, identifying potential new leaders and new volunteer participation by more recent attendees.

• Provide for more involvement in building our Ministry Action Plan annually

It was clear from this dialog that this church is heavily invested in doing and communicating ministry as a primary reason for being and flourishing.

Summary of Culture & Leadership

The third congregational dialog in the planning process focused on the culture and future leadership of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak (GLO). A review of GLO culture provided a jumping-off point, by defining what comprises our culture, with its visible artifacts, values and beliefs, and its deep essence and underlying assumptions (see Appendix G.)

Artifacts of the church's culture were identified as the tangible items which have been created by or are being used by the church. These items include but are not limited to the Constitution, the altar and sanctuary elements, our historical records, the newsletter, our church directory, and artwork throughout the church, including the paintings in the fellowship hall.

The values and beliefs embraced by the congregation enumerated include the following: a non-prescriptive theology which encourages diversity in thought, a high value on the diversity of people, a culture of caring for one another and the feeling of the church as "family", and a firm support for the idea of open and affirming language and behavior. These values are reflected in the church Constitution under the section titled "Distinctive Value Statements". Although we do adhere to the principles of the UCC, we value the autonomy which the United Church of Christ allows in our manner of worship, as standard as it might be.

Another value held by GLO is the idea of our being a "sacred place of healing." This cultural identifier has blossomed recently as the church has become a host for numerous recovery groups and redemptive ministries.

The next portion of the dialog was devoted to the assessment of church leadership roles and the cultivation of leaders of the future. The congregation was asked the question: "Who are the leaders of the church?" The lengthy list included the pastor, music director, members of consistory, treasurer, teachers and outreach coordinators to name a few. One noted that each congregant is called to be a leader in some way.

When asked about how the functioning of our ministry teams could be improved it was suggested that potential new members should be personally invited and that the ministry teams should hold regular meetings. The essential starting point for identifying and developing leaders is invitation to do so.

Lastly, the need to consider the search for our Pastor's successor was brought forward. Some of the discussion focused on the attributes our new pastor should possess. Those attributes included: that the candidate be either UCC educated or otherwise endorsed, be comfortable with and supporting of our "progressive" views and ministries, and that the candidate need not be gay or lesbian. Much discussion was held regarding our desire to seek the Eastern Ohio Association’s help in identifying a one-year interim pastor trained in leading churches through transitions such as this after the current one leaves, and readying us for a search process.

Additionally, it was announced that the music director will also be stepping down within the span of the five year plan, and perhaps others who the congregation would consider crucial in leadership roles. This further underscored the need to include in planning an approach to leadership development for the church as a part of its plans for the future.

Summary of Vision & Future Growth and Sustainability

To begin the dialog, the primary question posed was whether or not we have evidence to show growth now and for planning in the future. Pastor Daniel Young presented informal data he gathered regarding growth patterns at GLO for the years 2001-2011. The data is inclusive of yearly membership, deaths, giving households, average attendance (including children), and new members. Pastor’s perception, borne out in review of specifics, is that many new members are coming from our website and/or are participants in weekly meetings such as AA & Al-Anon. The church has moved away from the same kind of statistical data collection that it might have been doing in the past, and this was seen as an opportunity to improve upon in the planning process. We do want to and need to continue with the record keeping of membership.

A discussion included the need to put a software applications assistant in place to systematize the collection and eventual evaluation of data. The recent identification of a volunteer with these office support skills is a good start in addressing a plan for bolstering future data collection formally. In a similar way, Minutes for ministry team meetings need to be stored electronically, now that the technology is readily available with the purchase of an additional laptop.

Pastor reported for the years 2002-2011 membership was essentially, on average, about the same when using actual members, with only slight fluctuation. In 2010 and 2011 membership showed some growth. As mentioned before, new members came to GLO via one of three ways: website; word of mouth; and, 12-Step Groups (organizations meeting at GLO weekly).

The website updates have been kept current and have been helpful to encourage new attendees. Word of mouth speaks for itself, that friends and acquaintances of congregants, or persons in the area passing by, learn more about the church through attendance, and including the Agape Bag distribution and the other outreach missions in which we are currently involved. Members of 12-Step groups feel very comfortable and welcome. It was noted that this is unusual for folks in 12-Step to feel as comfortable as they do in a church they attend for weekly meetings. Participants in 12-Step programs that meet at GLO find no judgment, and this is a big asset for being attractive to new people. This was noted to be an example of an informal ministry outreach at GLO. It was also stated that new members are “seekers or searchers,” people that are looking for ways to serve, and seeking the Spirit and to do ministry. Thus, a key is to continue to provide Ministry and Mission opportunities.

The membership information also included average attendance and giving households. It was suggested that new members are not aware as they might be of the importance of giving to the church in support of the church. Pastor mentioned that new member education on stewardship could be strengthened.

Another topic is that new members with children often don’t always attend church regularly, due to other obligations such as sports, dance competitions, etc. We are very fortunate to have a Sunday school team which assures personalized contact with the parents, and designs lessons at an appropriate level for learning values.

Additional ideas for future growth also included exploring ways to address the needs of the differently able not only with physical disabilities, but also mental or emotional disabilities; exploring ways to reach out to families in the community with Easter egg hunt, back-pack giveaway with school supplies, or a Parent/ Daughter Tea for the Girl Scouts using our building and their families.

In summary, the ideas from all four dialogs provided rich input for future planning. From these we must act on them in a structured way within the framework of the plan, periodically review the results, and engage in refining and interweaving new approaches for our future.

VIIIA. Plans for People

A.1.Planning Need: Plan a Process for Interim Pastorate

Plan for a process which will guide the congregation to acquire an interim pastor for a one year transition period, during which he/she will lead the congregation during the pastoral search process.

Description: Our current pastor will likely be retiring sometime during the planning cycle, necessitating a structured plan and process.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Notify Eastern Ohio Association upon notice of retirement TBD Consistory

Await advisement from EOA on process and procedures TBD Consistory

Review and accept interim pastor TBD Committee of Consistory

Conduct formal search in the latter half of the year of interim pastorate TBD Same

Indicators of Success:

Consistory Committee’s completion of Interim Pastor interview process

Consistory recommending Interim Pastor to Congregation for approval

An effective interim pastorate year before a formal search and call process

A.2. Planning Need: Plan for Ministry Leadership Development

Plan for leadership development opportunities so members can better match their interests/gifts/skills to the appropriate Ministry Team(s) or other working group or activity in the church.

Description:

The church continues to need equipped leaders in the church who are matched by their gifts and interests to available existing and emerging ministry opportunities in the church. Expand members of property team; consider new ways to assign responsibilities

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Expand property Ministry Team June 2011 Property Team DONE

Revisit assigning responsibilities June 2011 Property Team DONE

Develop written Ministry Function Descriptions, based on Constitution description, outlining specific purposes, functions, tasks of that particular ministry

December 2011 Pastor, Ministry Leaders

Create online and print versions of Ministry Function Descriptions

January 2012 Team Leaders, Church WP/DB Clerk

Distribute ministry function descriptions

January 2012 Team Leaders, Church WP/DB Clerk

Promote Ministry Team opportunities through multiple channels:

1. Website January 2012 Webmaster

2. Weekly Bulletin January 2012 WP/DB Clerk

3. GraceNews January 2012 GraceNews Publisher

4. Monthly Ministry Moments during the Offering

March 2012 Team Leaders/Pastor

5. GLO Ministry ‘Tree’ in Narthex/Lobby, illustrating the ministry opportunities

March 2012 GLO Volunteer(s)

6. Wall-mounted Note Card Holder with separate slots for ‘job available’ cards for each ministry…Called “GLO Ministries Menu”

March 2012 GLO Volunteer(s)

Outline training needs for each Ministry Team

April 2012 Team Leaders

Implement training April 2012 Team Leaders

Evaluate congregation’s attitudes and perceptions on annual survey

Adjust approach after evaluation as needed

Indicators of Success:

Congregation responds favorably to a survey of understanding

Ministry Team Minutes reflect recruitment and training processes are on-going

Project such as Ministry Tree, Ministry Moments and others are launched successfully

A.3. Planning Need: Provide for a Pastor Relations Committee (PRC)

Create a Pastor Relations Committee to support the pastor now, and provide continuity during interim pastorate and search and call processes.

Description:

Although Consistory may form any necessary working group, a PRC is not addressed in our Constitution. PRC should have 3-5 members and to act as a sounding board, and provide insight regarding congregation dynamics, maintained in private and confidentially. We believe Pastors should be free to select those on the PRC. PRC members may be changed /re-appointed by Interim Pastor to best serve his or her needs.

Actions to address the need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Form a PRC for the current pastor July 2011 Pastor & Consistory President DONE

Write a PRC description for the Constitution January 2012 Pastor & Consistory President

Amend the Constitution with PRC January 2012 Consistory

Appoint PRC members per Constitution February 2012 Pastor

Provide for process with interim pastorate TBD Pastor

Provide for process for called pastorate TBD Pastor

Indicators of Success:

PRC formation and function is outlined in the Constitution.

An appointed PRC is in place to serve an Interim Pastor.

An appointed PRC is in place to serve the New Pastor.

A.4. Planning Need: Plan for Replacing Key Positions

Create a plan to address replacing a key staff/volunteer position is vacated in the church in a timely manner.

Description:

When key staff/volunteers (other than Pastor) leave or quit their positions (e.g., pianist, music director, treasurer) the continued functioning of the church is challenging, as finding a volunteer to replace them can be time-consuming and difficult. Too often, positions such as these are assumed to go on for very long periods of time, which is impractical and unlikely in today’s mobile society.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Establish a Human Resources Ministry Team December 2011 Consistory

Develop a plan of action to address a vacancy April 2012 HR Ministry Team

Develop or assure a Position Description for all key positions June 2012 HR Ministry team

Indicators of Success, where appropriate:

GLO Human Resources Ministry Team is created

GLO Human Resources Ministry Team has developed position descriptions in place

GLO Human Resources Ministry Team has developed a plan to address vacancies of key positions

A.5. Planning Need: Plan for Lay Leadership Development

Create a plan to develop lay leaders for the church

Description:

The church has identified the need to have an integrated approach to developing lay leadership for future needs. Woven through this should be strengthening the understanding of discipleship, stewardship, relationship building, church vitality assessment, and leadership experience and skills

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Create a Leadership Development Plan December 2011 Consistory

• Create descriptions and list of activities aligned with Constitution Descriptions

• Coordinate Plan with Ministry Team development initiatives

Create a Leadership Development Committee with HR Ministry Team

March 2012 Consistory

Consider various training opportunities April 2012 Committee

Conduct Training Oct. 2012 Committee

Explore church vitality resources in UCC Jan. 2012 Consistory

Implement at least 2 vitality initiatives October 2012 Consistory/ Committee

Indicators of Success, where appropriate:

Implementing and evaluating a plan for effectiveness in January 2013

VIII.B. Plans for Property

B.1. Planning Need: Plan to Address the Needs of the Rental Property and Grounds

Description: The rental property, mentioned in the discussion of Weaknesses, is in need of repairs and updating, but the rental income does not offset the expense of doing so. The structure is not energy efficient and does not meet code. Additionally, since it is a rental property, the church does not benefit either from the use of the grounds nor the tax-exempt status. The use of the property as a rental property does not align with a ministry-based church, though the long-term renter might be viewed as benefiting from a form of ministry.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

• Establish a committee under Property Committee to research pertinent laws, codes, etc. December 2011 Consistory

• Provide a summary of findings to Consistory March 2012 Committee

• Create a plan for action Spring 2012 Special Property

• Consistory vote on plan April 2012 Consistory

• Implement plan April 2012 Committee

Indicators of Success, where appropriate:

Use or Re-Use of property is resumed.

B.2. Planning Need: Plan for Physical Plant Maintenance and Repairs

Description: Physical plant maintenance has been inconsistent in the past as identified in Weaknesses and Threats. Going forward, the Church needs a deliberate, ongoing planning process to discern, anticipate and implement needed changes and updates to the church buildings.

A core of dedicated congregants have kept the property functional and functioning in the past, as identified in Strengths

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Expand Property Team Summer 2011 Consistory DONE

Create a three-year plan aligned with a capital campaign Fall 2011 Property Team

Seek approval of plan by Consistory Fall 2011 Property Team

Assure plan is addressed in annual budgets December 2011 Consistory

Consider needs and develop capital expenditures list Fall: annually Property Team

Set Capital priorities from Property Team’s recommendations Fall: annually Consistory

Integrate Capital costs into planning process Fall: annually Property Team/Consistory

Price highest priority projects, implement the work As needed Property Team

Indicators of Success, where appropriate:

Buildings are in appropriate operating efficiency and are safe and accessible. 

Buildings’ use is substantially focused on the needs of the congregation and on the church’s missions.

An ongoing capital campaign provides resources to support the three-year plan.

B.3. Planning Need: Plan for Physical Plant Improvements toward Accessibility and Compliance

Description: The church needs to create a plan to research ways to improve accessibility for those with disabilities, including a sound system for the hearing-impaired, as a part of the capital-supported plan to address physical plant needs.

Activities to address the need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Establish an Advisory Committee for Property Team’s work on Physical Plant Repairs and Maintenance Fall 2011 Property Team/ Consistory

Integrate ideas into Plan for Physical Plant Repairs and Maintenance

Winter 2012 Committee

Indicators of Success:

Improvements related to accessibility and compliance are in evidence in annual physical plant planning.

VIII.C. Plans for Doing Ministry

C.1. Planning Need: Plan to Build on Theme and Asset of “Sacred Place for Healing”

The church desires to more firmly establish GLO’s identity as a sacred place of healing through written materials, promotional material, and outreach efforts in the community and to the congregation.

Description:

GLO’s identity of being a place of sacred healing is essential and needs to be more visible and used as the basis of promotion and planning over time.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Rename Care and Comfort Ministry Team to Healing and Wholeness Ministry Team

November 2011 Care & Comfort Team

Develop promotional plan, in conjunction with Evangelism Team January 2012 Healing & Wholeness and Evangelism Teams

Maintain a close working relationship with the 12-Step Recovery groups who meet in at GLO, ensuring their continued welcome and meet their facility needs Ongoing

Consider increasing the number and types of meetings as scheduling and space permit

As opportunities present themselves

Design and offer Worship Services of Healing and Wholeness at least twice a year

2009 and forward Healing & Wholeness Team/ Pastor

Continue weekly Prayer Services/ Bible Study during the non-summer months

2010 and forward Healing & Wholeness Team/ Pastor

Support the efforts of a volunteer Parish Nurse to provide material and events to further congregation’s healing and wholeness 2009 and forward Healing & Wholeness Team/ Parish Nurse

Continue sending prayers of healing and wholeness by email for those in need

2009 and forward Healing & Wholeness Team

Indicators of Success, where appropriate:

A functioning Healing and Wholeness Ministry Team

An established identity of GLO as a sacred place of healing within our church and in the wider community.

A continuing supportive relationship with all 12-Step Program groups who use GLO space.

The continued experience of 12-Step Program members visiting and experiencing the grace found at GLO.

Evidence by the congregation that GLO believes in the power of prayer and practices that belief.

A vibrant Parish Nurse/ Health Ministry.

C.2. Planning Need: Plan to Assess Ministry Teams toward Improvement

The church needs to develop a process to evaluate ministries and special events, to determine the relevance and effectiveness of each, and to determine continuation, alteration or termination.

Description:

Ministries and Special Events of GLO may or may not be fulfilling their original purpose, may have outlived their usefulness, or may need revision to meet the needs of people in this place and in this time. They all need to be directly related to mission and ministry of some kind, doing the things Christ calls us to do as a mission-focused church. Some church-wide ministries/events may need to go to Consistory for final determination of their future or the need or desire to revise its activities and purposes, but usually, it is the Ministry Team that determines future of their ministries. Special Event Coordinator position needs filled to lead the annual planning meeting for the church calendar; calendar should be reviewed every six-months.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Develop survey/review process to obtain perspective of leadership and/or congregation as to whether or not a ministry/event should continue as is, be changed, or terminated

April 2012 Consistory

Provide feedback to Chair of Ministry Teams June 2012 Consistory

Ministry Team evaluates results toward continuation, alteration, or termination. Summer 2012 Teams

Fill Special Event Coordinator position needs filled to lead the annual planning meeting for the church calendar Fall 2012 Consistory/ Pastor

Conduct a half-year review of calendar December & June, annually Special Event Coordinator/

Team Chairs

Indicators of Success

Relevant and effective ministries and special events

C.3. Planning Need: Plan for Transportation to Worship Services

The church needs to develop a plan for transporting those unable to drive to church services and events.

Description: The church needs to research and implement options for transporting, such as bus/van, or volunteers.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Determine if this is new ministry or part of existing one August 2011 Consistory

Establish a committee to research the need and how to implement October 2011 Consistory

Contact UCC for ideas or guidelines Nov. 2011 Committee

Research new vehicle/what about insurance/expenses Spring 2012 Committee/ Consistory

Evaluate costs of purchase vs. volunteers May 2012 Committee/Ministry

Implement recommendations Fall 2012 Consistory

Utilize volunteers for transporting/liabilities Ongoing Ministry Team

Advertise changes via web, Facebook etc. Spring 2013 Evangelism

Indicators of Success:

Attendance of those not able to drive grows.

C.4. Planning Need: Plan for Congregational Spiritual Formation

The church desires to create a plan to address the congregation's ongoing spiritual formation needs effectively.

Description:

The congregation's spiritual formation needs are in need of regular evaluation, with new approaches and new needs identified within the vision of GLO as a sacred place of wholeness and healing, and toward the goal of "nourishing everyone." By providing a mechanism for a regular review, the delivery of support, services, and processes will keep current with the changing needs of a changing congregation. Included in, but not limited to, this topic would be the following:

• How we welcome visitors

• Use of name tags or similar system

• Conducting Healing Services

• Supporting Adult Bible Study & Home Book Discussions

• Considering Home Visitation Options

• Providing input to Worship Arts Ministry

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties): 

Create a Task Force under the Spiritual Formation Ministry February 2012 Spiritual Formation Ministry

Design and send a survey of needs April 2012 Spiritual Formation Ministry

Evaluate feedback and create 2-3 new initiatives each year July 2012 Spiritual Formation Ministry

Design initiatives and implement July 2012 Spiritual Formation Ministry

Survey congregation for initiatives' success Fall 2012 & annually Spiritual Formation Ministry

Indicators of Success: 

Survey response rate increases over time

Survey results increase over time

C.5. Planning Need: Plan to Increase Visibility and Outreach with Groups Using GLO Facilities

Increase GLO's visibility within the community, strengthen outreach and current links, targeting the above mentioned populations.

Description:     Our church is utilized as a gathering place by community groups: Scouts,12-Step programs, Family Promise/IHN, for Precinct elections . Our congregation has several differently-abled/disabled attendees and our congregation includes families with children.  It has been identified that despite the church's usage from the above mentioned groups, there is no formal bridging/outreach to these groups, or to differently abled/disabled persons, or to families with children in the community.  Identified in the dialog on Opportunities.
 
 Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):
 Research community needs/ interests   Fall 2011             Evangelism Ministry/ 12-Step Liaison

Based on data, consider activities January 2012 Evangelism Ministry/ 12-Step Liaison

Determine interests/needs of identified groups using GLO space    Winter 2011 Evangelism Ministry
Plan activities of interest for:

• External Community

• Internal GLO "groups"

Take plans for activities to Consistory      Winter 2012 Evangelism Ministry

Implement  plans/activities               May 2012           Evangelism Ministry /Special Events

Provide follow- up after the activities TBD Evangelism Ministry /Special Events

 Indicators of Success: 

Visitors to GLO "groups" or to GLO sponsored activities from the community will begin to attend GLO events and worship regularly.

VIII.D. Plans for Communicating Ministry

D.1. Planning Need: Plan to Prepare and Store Ministries ‘ Information

The church desires to archive records electronically as soon as church office is equipped to allow for this. In doing so, the ministry teams will have the capability of keeping the congregation better informed about events and will have a history that can be referenced to inform future planning, future practices, and enhance general communication and administrative efficiency.

Description: Although already addressed to some degree in the Constitution, it would be beneficial to the congregation and church as whole to create visual ways to promote current ministries and keep all informed of their activities.

Actions to address the need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Assure Minutes are prepared for Ministries Summer 2011 Ministry Team Chairs

Submit Minutes to Word Processing/Database Ass’t regularly Summer 2011 Ministry Team Chairs

Archive Minutes and other information electronically Summer 2011 Office Assistants

Assure Ministry activities are in newsletters and on Web Summer 2011 Ministry Team Chairs

Assure Ministry announcements include details of requirements Summer 2011 Ministry Team Chairs

Indicators of Success:

Ministry Team Minutes are regularly submitted for electronic archiving

Ministry Team Minutes are able to be readily disseminated and used because they are stored electronically

Ministry Team activities are more visible to the congregation

D.2. Planning Need: Plan to Communicate Ministries Effectively

The church desires to create a plan to communicate about the many ministries at GLO more effectively to the degree that congregants can assist others in joining in ministry.

Description: The church needs to find ways to communicate ministry activities and opportunities for joining in ministry both in print/ Web, but also visually. This will underscore the goals and purpose of the church as a ministry-based faith community.

Actions to address the need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Create a list of ministry leaders and contact information Summer 2011 President

Print List for use by church & congregation October 2011 President

Update list information as needed Quarterly 2012 Ministry Chairs

Design a Ministry Tree /visual representation of Ministry Teams Fall 2011 President

Locate and mount Ministry Tree January 2012 President

Create description cards for ministry opportunities to accompany Tree Summer 2011 President

Indicators of Success:

Congregation understands purposes of Ministry teams, whether involved or not

Congregation knows who Ministry Team leader(s) are

Congregation can direct others to a Ministry Team based on this knowledge

D.3. Planning Need: Plan to Enhance Website Features

The church uses an adequate, free website page, but because this is an important tool for attracting new attendees and members, we should consider an upgrade in technology and features.

Description: Our current website design program is easy to use and it is free, but it has limited flexibility and does not include many up-to-date web page capabilities. The church desires to have a plan for selecting and purchasing a new website design program, and then lay out and design a new website with enhanced features.

Activities to address the Planning Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Identify a committee to advise on website project December 2011 Evangelism/ Consistory

Evaluate the current website March 2012 Webmaster/ Committee

Assure website needs are in budget November 2011 Evangelism Chair/ Consistory

Research website alternatives May 2012 Committee

Test/ pilot website application July 2012 Committee

Recommend new website application July 2012 Committee

Design the new website seeking input from others July 2012 Committee

Launch the use of the new website Fall 2012 Webmaster/ Committee

Indicators of Success:

Have a new website in place by 2013

VIII.E. Planning For Growth

E.1. Planning Need: Plan to Expand Themes in Promotional Materials

The church desires to create promotional materials proclaiming our distinctive value, purpose, and vision statements: Embodying Christ, Emulating Christ, and Empowering Disciples.

Description:

The value, purpose and vision statements in the GLO constitution are not sufficiently obvious or publicized to the congregation, to those visiting us, or to the general public. These core statements can become a part of the GLO “brand” for promotion and recognition.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Design Poster/ banners using the E³ message February 2012 Evangelism Team

Have posters/ banner prepared March 2012 Evangelism Team

Display poster/ banners April 2012 Evangelism Team

Assure wide use of E³ message in bulletins, newsletters, etc. April 2012 Evangelism Team

Indicators of Success:

The congregation, visitors and the general public are aware of GLO’s value, purpose, and vision statements.

E.2. Planning Need: Plan to Promote ONA Status as an Asset while Remaining Family-Friendly

The church recognizes the strength of being a recognized ONA, but believes this might not be well-understood outside of UCC. The church desires to create a plan to promote our ONA status appropriately and effectively.

Description: ONA is not just about being a gay-welcoming church; it is about welcoming all people: the disabled, the unchurched, the homeless, the disenfranchised, persons with mental disabilities- all people. A consistent theme in our dialogs is that a Strength for the church is our ONA status; concurrently a Threat may be that we are a welcoming church lead by an openly gay pastor. We want to explore how to promote our ONA status while remaining family-friendly to the community at large. We seek to determine the many ways Open and Affirming is interpreted. We believe we can develop empowering stories and promotional material to fit these interpretations, and incorporate these illustrations into our church’s media efforts. Additionally, we want to consider special programming around the findings, and investigate more fully how we can to fold our ONA status into the church growth plans.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Establish a Committee to research issues April 2012 Consistory

Explore UCC resources for serving those different April 2012 Committee

Define scope and reach of ONA July 2012 Committee

Determine/recommend areas for ONA mission and outreach Fall 2012 Committee

Committee recommends program options to Consistory November 2012 Committee

Indicators of Success:

Increased comfort in church members regarding the broad spectrum of the meaning of ONA

Better understanding of meaning of ONA in and out of the church

Included considerations for the differently-abled to feel welcome to this ONA church

Positive feedback within the community that supports GLO’s unusual grace and supportiveness

E.3. Planning Need: Plan for Ongoing Financial Needs

The church needs a plan for ongoing financial needs to assure future growth and sustainability.

Perception: The church has been moderately successful in faith budgeting in the past, and would like to move this forward in the future, as identified in Strengths. There is a concern of financial insecurity because the depth of monies in reserve is limited. This is reflected in the Weaknesses. The church needs not only an annual Stewardship Campaign, but also an ongoing capital improvement campaign, to support other plans in this planning cycle.

Activities to Address the Need (Timeline & Responsible Parties):

Determine an annual time of year for Stewardship Activities August 2011 Consistory

Seek leadership for Stewardship Activities Aug 2011 Consistory DONE

Set goals for Stewardship August 2011 Consistory

Research alternatives to weekly plate collection with UCC December 2011 Consistory

Consider EFT and debiting options for pledging Winter 2012 Consistory

Investigate and recommend capital campaign needs and solutions Winter 2012 Consistory

Implement Stewardship Activities September, annually Chair

Implement Capital Campaign January 2012 Consistory

Indicators of Success:

Annual Stewardship goals are met

Plans dependent on capital investments are moving forward

Summary

The congregation of Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak, within the frame work of the church’s Constitution, and with the approval of the Church Consistory, sets forth these goals for planning for the future of the church for the next five years.

While not comprehensive, the plan seeks to set priorities on the most pressing needs at the time, based on the congregation’s perspective, and recognizes that the plan may need to be modified over time, based on a regular annual review of the planning goals and accomplishments, relative to uncontrollable change.

With God’s grace and guidance, we will move the plan’s activities forward into the future, adhering to our values, mission and purpose, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, and embraced in the love of Jesus Christ.

Appendixes

Appendix A

Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak

Norton, Ohio

Five-Year Planning Process

January-June 2011

December 12, 2010 Propose idea of a planning process to Consistory, and receive approval

December-January Announce the approval to the congregation and set dates for church-wide dialogs; invite congregants to become committee members and participants in dialogs

January 9, 2011 Conduct Information Meeting after worship on the Planning Process; announce schedule of events for dialogs and committee meetings

Congregational Dialogs, in Sanctuary, at 6:30 PM, for about one and one half hours; all Thursdays

February 10 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats: SWOT Analysis, with Focus on Assets: Property, People, Resources, Community

March 3 Focus on Mission and Future Ministries

March 31 Focus on Culture and Future Leadership

April 21 Focus on Vision and Future Growth and Sustainability

Committee Meetings, in Consistory Room, at 10 AM, all Saturdays

February 5 Organizing the Committee, with Roles

March 5 Evaluating Comments on SWOT Analysis, Mission & Ministries; consider writing assignments

April 2 Evaluating Comments on Culture & Leadership; begin writing sections of the plan

May 7 Evaluating Comments on Vision, Growth, & Sustainability; continue writing sections of the plan

June 4 Complete writing the plan

June 12 Present final Draft of Plan to Consistory for amendment if needed; vote to approve

Appendix B

GRACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST OF LOYAL OAK, OHIO

AGENDA

Congregational Dialog 1: February 10, 2011

Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats: SWOT Analysis - with focus on Assets: People, Property, Resources, Community

1. Welcome and Prayer

2. Review the Role of Facilitator

3. Review of Guidelines for Dialogs – 10 minutes

4. Review of GLO Vision, Mission and Purpose (from our website) – 10 minutes

Our Vision Statement The vision of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to embody the ministry, message and hope of Jesus Christ

Our Mission Statement The mission of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to empower people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ Threaded through all of this is our overarching intention of being, and our valuing being, a sacred place of healing for all who seek the Grace of God in Jesus Christ.

Our Purpose Statement The Purpose of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to emulate the ministry, message and hope of Jesus Christ

5. Review of Key Elements of SWOT

6. Task 1: List as many Strengths as you can think of to share with the larger group.

1. Take brief notes so that whomever is your “reporter” can have the notes to share with the larger group

2. 10 minutes

3. Questions to Consider: What are we good at? What makes us distinctive among area churches? What do we have which are assets? What have we accomplished that we didn’t know we could do? On what do we rely when confronted with adversity or problems? What structures or processes do we have in place which are serving us well? Are we “living our mission?”

4. Debrief in large group; collect responses and determine major/ minor, etc.

5. 3-5 minutes

7. Task 2: List as many internal Weaknesses as you can think of to share with the larger group.

1. Take brief notes so that whomever is your “reporter” can have the notes to share with the larger group

2. 10 minutes

3. Questions to Consider: What are we not very good at? What had we hoped to accomplish, but were unable to do so? What has not worked in the past to assist us in dealing with adversity or problems? What structures or processes do we have in place which appear to not be working so well, which we can improve? Are we “living our mission?”

4. Debrief in large group; collect responses and determine major/ minor, etc.

5. 3-5 minutes

8. Task 3: List as many external Opportunities as you can think of to share with the larger group.

1. Take brief notes so that whomever is your “reporter” can have the notes to share with the larger group

2. 10 minutes

3. Questions to Consider: What does our community think we do well? How do we know? What advantages to we have relative to other area churches? What do we have that we can leverage toward a point of distinction in the future? Are we “living our mission?”

4. Debrief in large group; collect responses and determine major/ minor, etc.

5. 3-5 minutes

9. Task 4: List as many external Threats as you can think of to share with the larger group.

1. Take brief notes so that whomever is your “reporter” can have the notes to share with the larger group

2. 10 minutes

3. Questions to Consider: What does our community think we do not do well? How do we know? What are some obstacles or disadvantages that could limit our vision and growth, or limit our realizing our mission?

4. Debrief in large group; collect responses and determine major/ minor, etc.

5. 3-5 minutes

10. Wrap-Up for Evening – 10 minutes

11. Adjournment

Appendix C

GRACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST OF LOYAL OAK, OHIO

AGENDA

Congregational Dialog 2: March 3, 2011

Focus on Mission and Future Ministries

12. Welcome and Prayer

13. Review the Role of Facilitator and Guidelines for Dialogs – 10 minutes

14. Review of GLO Vision, Mission and Purpose (from our website) – 10 minutes

Our Vision Statement The vision of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to embody the ministry, message and hope of Jesus Christ

Our Mission Statement The mission of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to empower people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ Threaded through all of this is our overarching intention of being, and our valuing being, a sacred place of healing for all who seek the Grace of God in Jesus Christ.

Our Purpose Statement The Purpose of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to emulate the ministry, message and hope of Jesus Christ

15. Discuss and Evaluate Current Vision, Mission, and Purposes

1. When were these written and what was the status of the church when they were written? How might this influenced how the VM&P were written?

2. When was the last time the mission was revised? What were the important elements included in the revision?

3. Is our current mission appropriate? Is the vision statement appropriate? Is our purpose statement appropriate? If not, what would make these stronger? Are these cohesive in relating to one another in a logical and consistent way? If not, how might these be improved?

4. Is the mission statement sufficiently explicit on ministry?

5. Is it sufficiently broad? Is it so broad that it doesn’t tell us anything?

6. Has the mission worked for us as it exists to date?

7. Has it worked for us despite it being less cohesive with the vision and purposes?

8. Come to a consensus in your small group on if we should invest time in reworking any of these elements 12 minutes

9. Report by group, 3 minutes each 12 minutes

16. Review Existing Ministries using the attachment

17. Consider New or Emergent Ministries 12 minutes

1. Name a recorder to take notes

2. List the possible new ministries of interest in your group

3. Report on these by group toward a master list of new ministries to consider, 3 minutes each 12 minutes

18. Wrap-Up for Evening – 5 minutes

19. Adjournment

Appendix D

GRACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST OF LOYAL OAK, OHIO

AGENDA

Congregational Dialog 3: March 31, 2011

Focus on Culture and Future Leadership

20. Welcome and Prayer

21. Review the Role of Facilitator and Guidelines for Dialogs – 5 minutes

22. Review of GLO Culture – 30 minutes total

1. Organizational Culture is often defined as the following (R.L. Daft. The Leadership Experience. Mason, OH: Cengage Learning, 2008; p. 422.): The set of key values, assumptions, understandings, and norms that is shared by members of an organization and taught to new members as correct.

2. How it “looks” and “feels” to an outsider is a manifestation of the organizational culture

3. Three levels of culture: Visible Artifacts, such as symbols, dress, rituals/ ceremonies; Values & Beliefs, discernable, but not because one can necessarily see them; and Deep Essence and underlying Assumptions, that most are not consciously aware of without being challenged to think about and articulate.

4. There are elements of our culture alluded to in the comments on the SWOT analysis; highlight those you believe speak to church culture and be prepared to explain why you believe these are a part of the culture. Identify if they are Visible Artifacts, Values & Beliefs, or Deep Essence and Assumptions.

5. Discuss other items of Deep Essence and Assumptions that may not be on the list, but which should be included in the set of descriptors. Use the Cultural Markers Table as a point of reference. Complete the list of Deep Essence & Assumptions. 20 minutes

23. Discuss and Evaluate Current and Future Leadership

10. When we think of church leadership, we usually think first and often only of the pastorate. List as many leaders in the church as you can think of. - 3 minutes

11. Identify which of these are essentials, based on who we are and what we do. -5 minutes

12. What do we look for in leaders? How do we know when we have a leader; what are the descriptors or attributes that we look for? -5 minutes

13. Discuss how we identify leaders. Discuss how we prepare leaders. Discuss how we acculturate (bring into our culture) leaders. Can we be more organized in leadership development? What would that look like? -10 minutes

14. What would some required attributes be for a new pastor for GLO, based on our culture?

24. Wrap-Up for Evening – 5 minutes

25. Adjournment

Resource: http://faithandleadership.com/principles_practice

Appendix E

GRACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST OF LOYAL OAK, OHIO

AGENDA

Congregational Dialog 4: April 14, 2011

Focus on Vision and Future Growth & Sustainability

26. Welcome and Prayer

27. Review the Role of Facilitator and Guidelines for Dialogs – as might be needed

28. Review of GLO Vision :

The vision of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to embody the ministry, message, and hope of Jesus Christ. Threaded through this is our overarching intention of being, and our valuing being, a sacred place of healing for all who seek the Grace of God in Jesus Christ.

29. Review Assembled Data – 20 minutes

15. Note of Caution: We are inclined to state impressions as fact, but a review of the data helps keep statements regarding our growth and our new members evidence-based and thereby reliable.

16. Have we grown in recent years, remained about the same, or declined in numbers?

17. Where have new members come from? Do we know? If we don’t know, would a survey be useful to verify our thoughts?

18. Is giving per member or household up, down or about the same? Why do we believe this is true? Are there other things we have in place which can be investigated toward knowing, understanding and using this information?

19. How does this information speak to the support or not our impression of faith-based budgeting? Does this information lead us in other directions in terms of planning for finances? Why or Why not?

30. Review of Existing Resources – 15 minutes

1. What systems, processes, or activities do we have or that we have put into place which helps support new members finding us, worshipping with us and joining us formally?

2. What of these works well, and what does not? How do we know? (We should consider these things as assets which will appreciate over time, if we invest in their effectiveness and build on their successes.)

3. Does the data tell us that if we were to do nothing different, might we likely expect to continue to grow, decline or remain the same?

4. What systems, processes, or activities help indirectly with “growing” the congregation? Is it important to us to increase the membership, or not?

31. Ideas for Future Growth – 30 minutes

1. How can we use our Strengths to attract new members?

2. What are some things we might investigate or try toward sustaining growth among the growth groups in recent years?

3. What are some things we might do toward reaching out to new groups in our community?

4. Are alternative services, times, emphases, or messages something we might want to explore? Why or Why not?

5. Other Ideas and Comments

32. Wrap-Up for Evening – 5 minutes

33. Adjournment

Appendix F

GLO Ministries (not necessarily a comprehensive list), in Related Groupings

For GLO, at GLO	For GLO, Outside of GLO	For Others, at GLO	For Others, Outside of GLO	Responsible Party
		Family Promise/ IHN	Family Promise Board Service	Individuals
12-Step Programs		12-Step Programs		Individuals
Care & Comfort Prayers and Visits	Shut-In Visitation; Support at times of crisis and/or illness			Ministry Team/Pastor
			Miller Ave Mission Church Luncheons	Individuals
			Miller Avenue Mission Church Donations	Individuals
			Miller Avenue Mission Church Board Service	Individuals
			Open M Luncheons	Individuals
			Angel Tree Gifts & Food Baskets	Individuals
			Christmas Pajama Collection	Individuals
			Miller Avenue Mission Church Mittens/Socks	Individuals
Helping Hands Fund		Lunch Bag Distribution at Columbia Woods	BACM Food Pantry	Individuals/ Ministry Team
		Agape Bag Initiative	BACM Love Bags/ Feb.	Individuals/ Ministry Team
			Thanksgiving Food Baskets	Individuals
			Walk a Mile in My Shoes: Family Promise Fund Raiser	Individuals
		Girl Scouts		Individuals
			Denomination Five-for-Five Support	Congregation
			Christmas Gift to Retired UCC Pastors	Congregation
Sacraments		Sacraments		Pastor
Earth Day Recycling Projects	Recycling Projects	Earth Day Recycling Projects	Recycling Projects	Ministry Team/Indivs
Spiritual Journey/ Adult Bible Study		Adult Visitors		Ministry Team
Spiritual Journey/ Children & Youth		Children & Youth Visitors	Children’s Holiday Gifts to Miller Ave	Ministry Team
Spiritual Journey – Library Resources	Book Loans	Book Loans	Book Loans	Ministry Team
Ministry Team: Property		Ministry Team: Property		Ministry Team
Ministry Team: Administrative & Treasury; Consistory; Constitution; Stewardship	Consistory; Constitution; Stewardship	Stewardship	Stewardship	Ministry Team/ Pastor
Ministry Team: Evangelism; Coffees	Webpage	Webpage Greeters Coffees	Webpage Outreach Press Releases	Ministry Team
Ministry Team: Worship Arts		Ministry Team: Worship Arts		Ministry Team/ Pastor
Ministry Team: Music		Ministry Team: Music		Ministry Team
Ministry Team: Special Events	Building Use Schedule	Building Use Schedule	Building Use Schedule	Ministry Team/ Individuals
		Voting Poll for Board of Elections		Individuals
Ministry Team: Social Justice		Ministry Team: Social Justice		Ministry Team
Area Peace Group Meetings & Dinners		Area Peace Group Meetings & Dinners		Individuals
Rummage Sale		Rummage Sale		Individuals
			Sharing America’s Resources Abroad Fund: Health Svcs	Individuals
Transportation				Individuals
Special Prayer Initiatives				Individuals; Ministry Team
	Mystery Dinners & other Fellowship			Individuals
	Summer Bike Trips			Individuals
	Home Church		Home Church	Individuals
Ministry Action Planning				Ministry Team
	Our Family & Community Lives outside of the Church			Congregation

Appendix G

CULTURAL MARKERS

Rituals	Artifacts	Values	Heroes?	Symbols
How we prepare new members	Constitution	Non-prescriptive theology; diversity in thought	Those who have overcome addiction?	UCC Logo
How we install Consistory	Altar/ Sanctuary/ Baptismal Font	Diversity in people	Those who manage ministries?	Our church exterior/ steeple
How we baptize	Historical Records	ONA Status	Those who start new ministries?	Still Speaking Comma
How we ordain new clergy	Grace News Newsletter	Belief in the value of our multiple ministries	“Great Cloud of Witnesses?”	Alte Deutschebibel
How we welcome visitors	Web Site	Caring for one another; seeing the congregation as our church “family”	Jesus Christ	Painted walls & blocks in hallway of education wing
Our community dinners	Church Directory			Motto: “Once you enter here, you are family.”
Our hosting Family Promise	Paintings in Fellowship Hall
Our coming together for most projects
How we share Easter season with Trinity Lutheran
How we celebrate Christmas
How we celebrate Lenten Season; how we impose ashes
How we pray, how often, and for whom
How we take Communion

Appendix H

Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak

Ministry Team Leaders and Contact Information

Pastor, The Reverend Daniel Young 330-706-3680

Property – Von Over 330-607-8621

Evangelism – Rick Thome 330-668-0022

12-Step Liaison - Lynn Reynolds 330-753-5315

Worship Arts – Kim Gravis 330-666-2072

Spiritual Formation – Joyce Halter 330-882-9669

Library - Rick Thome 330-668-0022

Social Justice – John Beatty 330-867-7812

Green Team – Rhonda McGuire 330-745-3145

Healing & Wholeness – Lynn Reynolds 330-753-5315

Parish Nurse - Nancy Kirby 330-882-0736

Local Missions – Tookie Mullen 330-336-3236 / Nancy Kirby 330-882-0736

Appendix I

NOTES TO GUIDE WEBSITE ENHANCEMENT PROJECT

(Year One)

Establish an ad hoc committee to review our current website and decide what enhanced features we want on a new website. This committee should include representatives from multiple areas of the Church. We need to have full input of the Church's needs and ideas in order to design a new website that will support the Church now and in the future.

Some items the committee may want to consider:

• Who uses the website and why. (Statistics)

• Review what we like and dislike about the current website.

• Does the website reflect the UCC Church and our Vision, Mission, and Purpose.

• How far do we want to go with making ONA visible on the website?

• Will the Website Plan be in harmony and coordinate with the Church's overall five year plan?

• Establish a Website budget.

• Start exploring and reviewing website design programs that fit within our budget.

• Make a selection and then purchase the new website design program.

• Define the requirements and responsibilities for a Website Manager and term of service, may also want to consider a backup Website Manager or other support persons.

(Year 2)

Layout and design the new website and publish it.

• Some items to consider when designing a new website:

• Make sure the website has a very user friendly interface.

• Maintain a standard and consistent layout.

• Select the overall theme Example: Uniformity with UCC's, colors, fonts, logos etc.

• Marketing: What overall image do we want to project to our church members and the community.

• Make sure we provide useful and timely information.

• Maintain documentation of website details for backup, training, support and education for future website managers and other support persons.

• Make the ease of maintenance and updating of the website a top priority, (Keep it simple)

• Explore the possibility of giving access for maintaining and updating the website to multiple users, divided by logical categories such as by Teams and also the Church Office/Pastor.

• Who should be involved besides the website manager in the detail work of creating the new website and getting it published? (This detail work can be a lot for one person to do)

• Plan and coordinate the switch over from the old website to the new website.

(Years 3 thru 5)

Establish new goals and objectives after competing years 1 and 2, this will also include input from the new Pastor.

Appendix J

CONSTITUTION OF THE GRACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST OF LOYAL OAK

(An Ohio Non-Profit Corporation)

PREAMBLE

We, the members of Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak, in the City of Norton, Ohio in order to promote the ministries of the denomination and our local church, do hereby adopt this Constitution together with the Constitution and By-Laws of the General Synod of the United Church of Christ, as amended from time to time, to be our fundamental law and declare the same to have authority over all matters coming within the jurisdiction of our congregation.

ARTICLE ONE Statements

1. Our Vision Statement: The vision of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to embody the ministry, message, and hope of Jesus Christ, offering a sacred place for healing through a wide range of ministries for our members and the local community.

2. Our Mission Statement: The mission of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to empower people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

3. Our Purpose Statement: The purpose of Grace UCC of Loyal Oak is to emulate the ministry, message, and hope of Jesus Christ by:

1. Evangelism (Communicating God’s Grace): Through word and deed, we will proclaim the Gospel of God’s radical grace and abounding love in Christ and will invite all people to a lively and meaningful personal and corporate faith experience.

2. Worship Arts (Celebrating God’s Presence): Through corporate worship and personal devotion, we will express love, gratitude, and adoration to God for all creation, for the work of Christ, the presence of the Spirit and the gift of grace.

3. Spiritual Formation (Becoming God’s People): Through exercising personal and corporate spiritual disciplines, we ill intentionally seek to develop toward full Christian maturity, becoming fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

4. Social Justice (Demonstrating God’s Love): Through discovering and celebrating our God-given gifts and offering them in unselfish service, we will be servants of Jesus Christ in the world, extending the compassion, justice, peace, and presence of Christ in all our relationships, in our communities and throughout the world.

5. Local Missions (Sharing God’s Love): Through direct involvement of GLO volunteers in ministries at the local level that provide assistance to the poor, marginalized, disabled, homeless and others who Christ calls us to serve.

6. Wider Church (Extending Globally God’s Grace and Love): Through financial gifts supporting a wide variety of national and global ministries, especially our United Church of Christ wider church and global ministries so that the love and grace of Christ is spread across the world.

7. Congregational Events (Strengthening God’s Local Church): Through gathering together as a congregation in fellowship and special events for the local community, including events that raise financial resources, enhancing our faith community in spirit, unity, and visibility in the local community. 20% of funds raised at public events will be designated to local benevolence.

8. Property (Maintaining God’s House): Through capital and operational financial gifts and short and long term planning, maintaining our church building efficiently and effectively, upgrading the mechanics, structures and cosmetic aesthetics that make relevant and quality ministries possible.

4. Our Statement of Faith: Grace UCC of Loyal Oak embraces the following statement of faith, revised in 1981 (in the form of a Doxology), and affirmed by the 14^th General Synod of the United Church of Christ:

We believe in you, O God, Eternal Spirit, God of our Savior Jesus Christ

and our God, and to your deeds we testify:

You call the worlds into being, create persons in your own image,

and set before each one the ways of life and death.

You seek in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.

You judge people and nations by your righteous will declared

through prophets and apostles.

In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Savior,

you have come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin

and death and reconciling the world to yourself.

You bestow upon us your Holy Spirit, creating and renewing the church of

Jesus Christ, binding in covenant faithful people of all ages,

tongues, and races.

You call us into your church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship,

to be your servants in the service of others, and to proclaim the

Gospel to all the world and to resist the power of evil, to share

in Christ’s baptism and eat at his table, to join him in his

passion and victory.

You promise to all who trust you forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace,

Courage in the struggle for justice and peace, your presence

In trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in your realm which has no end.

Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto you. Amen.

5. Our Distinctive Value Statements:

Grace UCC of Loyal Oak emphasizes the following distinctive values in all of its life and work:

Inclusivity: We believe that loving relationships must permeate every aspect of the church’s life together. All people are welcomed and recognized as God’s good creation, and as a community consistent with the way of Christ, differences and diversity are celebrated and affirmed. Because we believe all people are free to pursue a relationship with God in this Congregation, we do not exclude or hinder people’s participation in the full life of the church based on, but not limited to gender, race, age, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, marital circumstance, ethnic origin, theological perspective, or physical/mental challenges.

Responsible Freedom: We believe that where there is union with the Spirit there is complete and abiding liberty, extended to:

The Individual: We believe that the individual, led by God’s Spirit within the community of faith, is both free and responsible to read and interpret the Scriptures in order to honestly seek God’s best for their lives. People of faith are free and responsible to dissent from majority opinion when conscience dictates, recognizing the individual’s ultimate accountability to God and realizing that to dissent is at times both appropriate and necessary. This freedom is extended to both clergy and laity alike without fear of retribution.

The Church: We believe the church is both free and responsible, under the authority of Jesus Christ to shape its own life and mission, call its own leadership, and act in accordance with the collective decisions of its members, guided by the working of the Spirit in the light of the Scriptures. The Church should be ecumenical in its spirit, always seeking to participate with, and to heal the division in, the larger body of Christ. All members of the church are called to minister to others and to each other and to participate as equals in the common life and worship of the church.

Biblical Interpretation: We believe individuals and the churches are free to study the Scriptures, relying on the illumination of the Spirit, the historical understanding by the Church and on the best methods of modern biblical study, with a reverence for the biblical witness and a respect for open inquiry and responsible scholarship. We believe there is yet more light and truth to break forth from God’s Holy Word, recognizing that the Bible, though written in specific historical times and places, still speaks to us in our present condition and that the study of scriptures should not be limited by past interpretations but is to be pursued with expectancy for new insights and help for living today.

Religious Practice: We believe in a free Church in a free state and the opposition of any effort either by Church or state to use the other for its own purpose. If the Church is to be truly free, religious freedom must be extended to all religious people as well as to the irreligious. “Unchurched” and “de-churched” people matter to God and the church must seek to develop relationships with all people and welcome all people into its midst with sincere hearts and without coercion or manipulation. The Church must be culturally relevant in its methods while remaining thoroughly Christian in its message, making every effort in its language, its witness and its practices to communicate effectively and relevantly the hope and power of the Gospel.

Intentional Spiritual Formation: We believe Christians need to take seriously the call to follow Christ and intentionally seek to grow in God’s grace and knowledge, guided by the Spirit. Exercising the classic disciplines of spiritual formation, such as, but not limited to, prayer, study, service, and worship, is essential for spiritual growth. Regular and active worship and participation in study and fellowship events work as catalysts for transformation in individual lives and in the life of the church.

Redemptive Ministry: We believe in our role of servant leadership, following the model of Jesus Christ, and our call as God’s people to work and pray diligently for justice, peace, and understanding and to consider justice and peace in all our church decisions and in all aspects of our lives. We believe in creating a sustainable environment that balances full and equal human development with the protection of the eco-system and in the faithful stewardship of all of God’s creation: human, natural and spiritual. We believe that every believer is a minister gifted by God for the building up of the Church, the expansion of the realm of God and an instrument in God’s process of reconciliation, with impact locally and globally.

Celebrative Worship: We believe the people of the church celebrate their relationship with God and each other through worship experiences that are liberating, encouraging and uplifting and that worship is the heart of the congregation’s life together. Through our worship we offer our praise and honor to God and are better equipped to offer our very lives. Worship is a catalyst for transformation in the life of individuals and in the life of the church.

Authentic Community: We believe that people within our community of faith are free to be honest without fear of judgment and condemnation from fellow believers, because where open and authentic sharing is met by grace, we can have hope and love and the desire of God’s people to be a part of the process of healing, transformation, and renewal. We also believe that Christ’s followers are called to manifest authenticity in their personal lives and to yearn for continuous growth. As followers of Christ, we radiate God’s Spirit through loving fellowship and seek to maintain unity and harmony of the Spirit that binds all believers in love.

ARTICLE TWO Affiliations

1. Grace UCC of Loyal Oak shall maintain and sustain a covenantal relationship with the United Church of Christ, as well as its regional and local expressions, that being the Ohio Conference and the Eastern Ohio Association.

2. The church shall be free to affiliate with interfaith or ecumenical groups upon approval by the Consistory.

ARTICLE THREE Membership

1. The Purpose of Membership

Grace UCC of Loyal Oak recognizes Membership as its means of identifying those in its midst who are committed to follow God, as revealed and made known in Jesus Christ, in personal piety and in service to the world. It also recognizes Membership as a way to identify those who are committed to being in relationship with each other to do the work of the Church and to identify those who are given a voice and a vote in its decision making process.

2. Qualification for Membership

Any person may become a Member by:

1. Completing the Membership Information Class offered periodically during each year to those desiring to become new members and those existing members who want contemporary information about the church and its denomination.

2. A desire to enter into Membership by:

   1. A Profession of Faith. This is when a person expresses his or her faith in God and a desire to live for God as embodied in the ministry, message and hope of Jesus Christ. Professions of faith will be followed by a service of celebration and initiate into the Christian faith, which could include baptism. Children desiring to make a profession of faith are encouraged to do so at an appropriate age and time, determined in conjunction with the child’s parents/guardians and the pastor, through the process of Confirmation..

   2. A Transfer of Membership. This is when a person who is already a professing Christian and is a member of another church decides to transfer his or her membership to this Church by letter.

   3. A Statement of Faith. This is when a person comes to the Church as a professing Christian, but for whatever reason cannot transfer his or her membership to the Church.

3. A commitment to be an active participant in the life of the church.

C. Forfeiture of Membership

The following conditions will result in the removal of a member’s name from the official membership list:

1. A member may request and be granted a letter of transfer to another church.

2. A member may terminate his Membership by written request.

3. Members will move from “Active” to “Inactive” when they have one year with no attendance or participation in any way in the life of the church. After three consecutive years of “Inactive” status, they will be contacted, if location known, to determine if they plan on any future participation in the life of the church. If not, they will be encouraged to withdraw their membership or go to the status of “Name Only Member”, and will not be counted in Membership statistics to the denomination.

ARTICLE FOUR Pastor

1. Purpose and Responsibility: The Church recognizes that God calls certain of its members to serve the Congregation as pastors. The designation of pastor indicates that a person has expressed a call to ministry and has evidenced a unique ability to serve the Church through visionary leadership. A pastor, in consideration of her or his special gifts, is authorized by the Church to lead and empower it in the fulfillment of its four major missional purposes: evangelism, spiritual formation, worship, and social action. It is the responsibility of the pastor to 1) preach and teach the Scripture/Gospel, 2) celebrate baptisms, communion and other various rites of the church and, 3) equip and employ its members in active service as the Body of Christ. The pastor will provide pastoral care to the congregation, including enabling Members to provide care to one another, especially during periods of serious illness and grief and other times of distress. The pastor shall be a member of the Consistory and an advisor to all church Ministry Teams and other organizations within the church. No other minister shall perform any ceremony or service within the church without the consent of the pastor; nor shall speakers be invited either during the pastor’s absence or for special occasions without the pastor’s consent.

2. Appointment of Pastor: When the pastor’s position becomes vacant, it is the responsibility and prerogative of the Consistory, through a Search Committee appointed by the Consistory President, with the approval of Consistory, and in consultation with the Association Minister of the Eastern Ohio Association of the UCC, to recruit, discern, and recommend to the Congregation a candidate to whom a call (through a written Call Agreement) as pastor may be issued. A minimum of 75% affirmative votes of those present at the Congregational Meeting is required to issue the call to the recommended candidate; at which time the Call Agreement is signed by the Consistory President and the pastor.

3. Termination of Pastor’s Call Agreement: The pastor’s Call Agreement can be terminated by a 75% vote of the Congregation with a minimum 90-day severance package; or by a 90 day (minimum) written notice to the Congregation by the pastor, unless the 90 day minimum requirement is reduced or excluded by a majority vote of the Consistory.

4. Ordained Ministerial Standing: The Church recognizes that ordained ministerial standing is conferred out of a covenantal relationship between the local church, the Eastern Ohio Association of the Ohio Conference of the United Church of Christ, and the ordained minister. This standing is understood to be one way that the Church seeks to live out its partnership in the Gospel with the wider church. It is further understood that the pastor must maintain ordained ministerial standing in the Eastern Ohio Association.

5. Inclusivity: The appointment of pastor and other church employees should be done in such a way as to intentionally reflect the vision and values of the church.

6. Pay Package: The Consistory shall have the responsibility of establishing the pay package of the pastor and all other church staff (self-employed or church employees), and shall to strive to meet minimum standards as suggested by the Eastern Ohio Association.

ARTICLE FIVE Structure and Organization for Decision-Making and Mission

1. Christ: The Church recognizes God as its sole authority, as revealed and made known in Jesus Christ.

2. The Congregation: The government of this Church is vested in its members, who exercise the right of control in all its affairs and who seek to discern the will and way of the Spirit in its life together and in its mission to the world.

3. The Consistory

   1. Purpose and Authority: The Consistory, accountable to the Congregation, is elected and empowered by the Congregation to act on their behalf in all matters of Church business and shall meet at least bi-monthly to manage the administrative affairs of the Church, including but not limited to the:

      1. Preparation of the Church’s budget and management of the finances. The Consistory may authorize any unbudgeted expense as long as it does not exceed $2,500. The Consistory may not borrow money without the approval of the Congregation.

      2. Use and maintenance of its facilities

      3. Employment of all staff (self-employed or church employees) other than pastor

      4. Election of delegates and alternates to attend and represent the Congregation at stated meetings of the Eastern Ohio Association and the Ohio Conference.

      5. Acting as legal representatives or trustees of the Church and will take such actions and execute any documents necessary to accomplish the purpose of any action authorized by the Congregation.

   2. Officers: At the first Consistory meeting of each year, Consistory members shall elect its officers to serve for one year.

      1. President: shall coordinate the work of the Consistory and see to it that all meetings of the Consistory and the Congregation are regularly called and shall preside over such meetings. The President shall serve for one year, and is eligible for re-election to that office for the duration of the member’s term on Consistory. Paid staff may not be elected President.

      2. Vice-President: shall preside at all meetings where the President is absent. The Vice-President shall serve for one year, and is eligible for re-election to that office for the duration of the member’s term on Consistory.

      3. Treasurer: The Treasurer shall be elected by the Congregation. The Treasurer shall have charge of all monies of the Congregation and make all payments according to the Church’s adopted budget and/or by order of the Congregation or Consistory. The Treasurer shall be responsible forwarding all necessary records to an Accountant on even numbered years for a financial review. The Treasurer shall be responsible for keeping a record of individual contributions and shall issue annual statements of contributions. The Treasurer shall serve for two years, and may serve consecutive terms.

      4. Church Clerk: The Church Clerk shall keep a record of all minutes and transactions of the meetings of the Congregation and of the Consistory. The Clerk shall also maintain an accurate and current Membership Record and Constitution for the Church. The Clerk shall serve for one year, and is eligible for election to that office for the duration of the member’s term on Consistory.

3. Membership. The Consistory shall consist of the following Members:

   1. The Treasurer, elected by the Congregation, two year terms, and may serve consecutive terms.

   2. The Pastor, called by the Congregation as the Consistory search process is outlined in Article Four.

   3. At-Large Members: Six Class-of-Even-Year and Six Class-of-Odd-Year Consistory members, so that six members of the Consistory are elected each year, and each Class serves two years. Each year a Nominating Committee of at least three Consistory members who are not eligible for re-election, will be appointed by the President, and with input from the pastor, will develop a recommended Class slate of six candidates for Consistory each year. Each Consistory member is eligible for two consecutive two-year terms., and may not be elected again until being off Consistory for at least one year.

   4. Chairs of Ministry Teams referenced in this Constitution, if not an already elected Consistory Member.

4. Consistory Working Groups. The Consistory may form such Working Groups (committees) as are needed to serve the church.

5. Uncompleted Terms. Except for pastor and Treasurer, positions that are vacated by Consistory members who are not able to complete their term will either remain vacant until the next Congregational meeting where the new annual slate is presented, or will be filled by appointment of the President, with Consistory approval, to fill out the vacant term until the next election. It is the President’s discretion whether or not to fill a vacant Consistory position.

6. Removal. Consistory members who do not attend Consistory meetings regularly, will be subject for review by Consistory for removal.

4. Ministry Teams. The Church’s work is carried out by Ministry Teams. The chairs of the Ministry Teams are appointed by the President, in consultation with the pastor, and affirmed by the Consistory. The chair need not be a member of Consistory, but every Ministry Team must have at least two Consistory members. All Consistory members must serve on at least one Ministry Team, and all Congregational members are invited and encouraged to serve on a Ministry Team. A minimum of five persons shall serve on a Ministry Team. The pastor advises all Ministry Teams, but is not required to attend all Ministry Team meetings. The Ministry Teams are accountable to the Consistory, and ultimately, to the Church. The Ministry Teams (and connected ministries) include:

   1. Evangelism Ministry Team

   2. Worship Arts Ministry Team

   3. Spiritual Formation Ministry Team

   4. Social Justice Ministry Team

i. GLO Green Team (Environmental Issues)

5. Administrative Ministry Team (Consistory can function as AMT)

6. Properties Ministry Team

7. Care and Comfort Ministry Team

8. Local Missions Ministry Team (Consistory can function as LMMT, with each mission having its own chair)

   1. Hearts and Hands Mission Fund has its own chair and team to distribute contributions to this mission fund. Move under new Local Missions Ministry Team

   2. Local Mission Direct Involvement, e.g. Interfaith Hospitality Network, Open M, Miller Ave. UCC Mission Church

9. Wider Church Ministry Team (Consistory can function as WCMT)

10. Congregational Events Ministry Team (Annual December Events Calendar Planning Meeting of all event coordinators/Participants)

ARTICLE SIX Meetings of the Church Membership

1. Church Year: the church year shall be January 1 through December 31.

2. Annual Meeting: In December of each year, the Church shall conduct its Annual Meeting. At the Annual Meeting, the following business will be conducted:

   1. Elect members to the Consistory

   2. Adopt coming year’s budget

   3. Hear reports from its pastors and Ministry Teams

   4. Consider any new business deemed appropriate and necessary by its membership or Consistory.

3. Special Meetings

A special meeting of the Congregation may be called at any time during the year by 1) the pastor, 2) the Consistory or, 3) upon written request of twenty-five (25) members of church to the Consistory. When such a request is received, the President of Consistory will respond to that request within two weeks from the request, and all members shall be notified as to the place, date, time and purpose no less than two weeks prior to any special meeting. Notification of Members shall be by 1) First Class letter, or 2) Announcement in Church newsletter, and 3) Written or oral announcement to the congregation at the worship service for two consecutive weekends. Only the business as has been written in the request for the called meeting may be transacted at that special meeting.

4. Quorum

A quorum shall consist of those Members present and voting.

ARTICLE SEVEN Property

1. Legal Powers

The Congregation in its corporate name may sue and be sued, hold, and purchase and receive title by gift, grant or other conveyance of title to any property, real or personal; with power to mortgage, sell or convey the same according to the laws of the State of Ohio.

2. Dissolution

Upon dissolution of the church, its assets and all property and interests of which shall be possessed, including any devise, bequest, gift or grant contained in any will or other instrument, in trust or otherwise, made before or after such dissolution, shall be transferred to the Eastern Ohio Association of the benevolent institutions or causes of the United Church of Christ as voted by the Congregation at the time of dissolution.

ARTICLE EIGHT Records and Reports

A. Church

The Church shall maintain the following records and reports:
1. A record of its membership, Active, Inactive, and Name Only

2. Accurate and correct books of all financial records and transactions;

3. Minutes of the proceedings of its members and of the Consistory;

4. Contribution statements of all of its members.

5. A current and accurate copy of its Constitution.

These records shall be the property of the Church. In the event of dissolution of the Church, its records shall become the property of the Eastern Ohio Association.

B. Wider Church

The Church shall make such reports to the Ohio Conference, the Eastern Ohio Association, and the United Church of Christ as may be required and asked for to fulfill and maintain its covenant relationship with the wider Church.

ARTICLE NINE Amendments to the Constitution

Amendments to this constitution may be proposed in any regularly called meeting of the Congregation or upon written proposal of twenty-five (25) Members of the Congregation to the Consistory, or by the consistory itself, and when so proposed, the Consistory shall consider the proposal. The Consistory shall report on their consideration of the proposed amendments and make recommendations no later than the Church’s next Annual Meeting. Amendments to the Constitution will take effect upon 75% affirmative vote of the Church. Only the Consistory may propose and recommend amendments to the Constitution for approval by the congregation, and can do so at anytime, in keeping with Article Six: C.

ARTICLE TEN Discernment and Consensus as Means of Decision Making

In making decisions as a Church, the Congregation seeks to discern the Spirit among us and pursue unity through consensus whenever possible. To do this, the following process should be employed by the Church in every aspect of its life together when confronted with a question or a decision to be made:

1. Hearing: This is a time of serious and respectful listening to all opinions and perspectives, both pro and con.

2. Discussion and Dialog: This is a time of seeking clarity and understanding for positions held and to discuss and dialog about the merits and consequences of such positions.

3. Discernment: This is a time of making sense, discerning the Spirit, and seeking consensus out of all the options and positions that have been presented and articulated.

4. Decision: This is a time of deciding a course of action or a response in a faithful attempt to discern the Spirit’s direction/guidance and to establish consensus. It is understood that a 75% vote will establish consensus, if necessary.

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I, the undersigned, certify that I am the presently elected and acting Church Clerk for Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak, an Ohio Non-Profit Corporation, and that the above Amended Constitution, is the Constitution of the Corporation as adopted at the Congregational meeting, on April 11, 2010.

Amended Constitution Executed at Norton, Ohio this 11^th day of April in the year 2010.

___________________________

Church Clerk, Grace United Church of Christ of Loyal Oak

Appendix K

GRACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

honors those pastors who have lead us over the decades

1845-1847 Rev. John Ruhl

1847-1862 Rev. J. W. Hamm

1862-1868 Rev. C. H. Reiter

1868-1883 Rev. L. B. Leiter

1884-1887 Rev. E. H. Otting

1887-1890 Rev. J. A. Danner

1890-1899 Rev. Jacob Ihle

1901-1910 Rev. E. E. Narragon

1910-1911 Rev. E. R. Willard

1912-1919 Rev. W. E. Foltz

1920-1926 Rev. Frank Wetzel

1926-1931 Rev. Ira W. Frantz

1931-1941 Rev. R. S. Beaver

1941-1942 Rev. Philip E. Stover

1944-1950 Rev. A. C. Peeler

1950-1954 Rev. H. C. Foster

1954 Rev. O. W. Hauman

1954-1991 Rev. Robert J. Baldauf

1992-2001 Rev. Donald Engle

2001-present Rev. Daniel E. Young

In addition, others have provided leadership at different intervals on a supply basis, including Rev. F. S. Zaugg, Rev. A. C. Renoll, Rev. W. S. Adams, Professor Thomas Orr, and Rev. C. A. Lang.