| August 2025 Dear Friends: Over the past few years, pastors and church leaders have asked me repeatedly if there were any tools “out there” that can help a congregation with its health assessment. Through much diligence and work, I am happy to announce that Rev. Dr. Ed Rogers from Renew Transformational Strategies will be coming to the Great Rivers Region, November 13 through 14 to lead pastors and church leaders through a mini conference on this very subject. A special invitation to those congregations engaged in the Church Revitalization Initiative. This will be an asset to your toolbox! We will be gathering at the region office in Springfield. Mark your calendar now! What is Renew Transformational Strategies? Ed Rogers is the CEO of this company. Ed is the former pastor of South Parkersburg Baptist Church, an extraordinarily strong and vital ABC congregation. Ed went to Alderson Broadus College and Palmer Seminary for his MDIV and DMIN. Ed’s expertise is congregational health assessment. Ed currently serves interim pastorates now and he also acts as a consultant for congregations/region staff on assessing health, vision, and refocus. Associate Executive Minister, Rob Kirbach and I attended a conference with Ed at the beginning of June and were amazed. We both found that his expertise could have a vital impact on our congregations. What will be covered? Understanding the Church as a Spiritual System -Applying systems thinking to church leadership and culture -Helping churches influence their culture through safety, trust, and shared purpose. Equipping Churches with Essential Awareness -Recognizing signs of health and life cycle realities -Addressing leadership, conflict, and communication challenges with clarity Navigating Emotional and Organizational Dynamics -Preparing churches for the emotional and relationship challenges of refocusing -Cultivating hope while naming difficulties Assessing and Interpreting Current Reality -Using adaptive leadership tools to assess church health and readiness -Utilizing surveys, interviews, and community data -Helping churches interpret what they learn and identify next steps Strategic Planning for Refocus -Clarifying mission, vision, and strategy for significant impact -Leading the church in vision discernment and congregational engagement Thank you for your participation! You will be excited and impressed! Blessings, Rev. Patty King Bilyeu Regional Executive Minister |
–
