Cambridge Street United Church 61 Cambridge St. N., Lindsay, ON K9V 4C9 Office (705) , Fax (705)

Transcription

1 Joint Needs Assessment Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church 61 Cambridge St. N., Lindsay, ON K9V 4C9 Office (705) , Fax (705) "A caring, loving family Mission Statement of Cambridge St. United Church We, as members of Cambridge Street United Church, seek to follow Jesus Christ through word, music, and social action; thereby nurturing our personal faith and supporting the faith journey of others. We promise to be stewards of our living earth, to share with those in need, and to be welcoming to all. Compiled by the Joint Needs Assessment Committee March 2017

2 Cambridge Street United Church 61 Cambridge St. N. Lindsay, ON K9V 4C9 Tel: (705) Fax: (705) A Caring Loving Family Joint Needs Assessment Committee Table of Contents JNAC Committee... 1 Our Church Family... 2 Community Profile... 3 Pastoral Charge Profile... 5 Board Structure & Committees... 7 Resources Profile... 8 Operating Statement... 9 Trust Fund Activity Position Profile Skills Profile Terms Profile Recommendations of the JNAC Committee Appendix - Survey and Summary Results

3 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 1 JNAC Committee In January 2017, a Joint Needs Assessment Committee was appointed by the Congregation of Cambridge Street United Church, to review, consult and make recommendations on our Ministry Personnel needs due to the departure of Rev. Paul Reed. The membership of the Committee is as follows: Alex McLeod - Chairperson Angela Ursel - Secretary Brenda De Koker Margaret Hughes Joanne Johnson Ashley Lucas Keith Olan Colleen Rafton Christine Willock Rev. Karen Croxall - Presbytery Representative In accordance with the guidelines of The United Church of Canada, the committee gathered information, held meetings and consulted within the CSUC, to draft a Joint Needs Assessment Report. As part of our preparation for our Joint Needs Assessment Report to the congregation and Presbytery, we circulated, in February 2017, a survey to our members and adherents. The information in this report is based on:. Data collected from the Congregational Survey. Information in the Vision Day Report. Input from members of several committees within the church. Various publicly available documents eg. Annual Reports, Brochures

4 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 2 Christmas Cantata 2016 Describing Our Church Family We are an inclusive church family of approximately 400 households and 500 members. The average church attendance in 2016 was 148. Most parishioners live in town. There are approximately 50 shut-in members, including those living in area nursing homes. Enrolment in our Sunday School is approximately 40 children, with an average attendance of 10. We have an active Youth Group of 20 enthusiastic, talented young people, who meet once a month. There are two UCW units, made up of about 50 women, plus many associate members. They are well supported by the congregation when taking on projects like the Rummage Sale and making beef pies. The Outreach Committee is involved in Habitat for Humanity and volunteers at King Albert School in the Lunch Program and assists in reading with the students. We are blessed to have a wonderful Director of Music, Erwin Stroobach, who uplifts spirits through the Cherub Choir, Voices of Victory, Cambridge Street Singers, the Handbell Choir and the Worship Band. There are many opportunities for activities that include a wide age range of helpers, thus promoting co-operation and get to know you atmosphere. Some events are the Roast Beef dinner, Ham dinner, Annual Picnic, Joys of Christmas, Talents and Treasures Auction, Seed Money Campaign, and the Live Christmas Pageant that leaves standing room only. Cambridge Street United is a forward looking and ecofriendly congregation. Solar panels were installed on the roof of the church, and this generates extra income. We welcomed and sponsored a six member Syrian family that has done well resettling in our community.

5 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 3 Community Profile Ross Memorial Hospital Cambridge Street United Church is located in the heart of Lindsay, ON, the largest community in the City of Kawartha Lakes (CKL). The population of CKL is 75,000 (Lindsay 20,000). Members of our congregation live throughout the CKL but most reside in Lindsay. Located approximately 125 km northeast of Toronto, and 40 km west of Peterborough, Lindsay is accessible from all directions via major highways. The Scugog River, part of the Trent-Severn waterway, flows through the town and provides water access to many nearby rivers and lakes in the Kawarthas. Lindsay is the economic and administrative centre of the area. The town benefits from a municipal airport, professional services, educational, recreational, health and social services. Beyond Lindsay, most of the large geographic CKL area is rural. The largest urban centres outside of Lindsay are Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls and Omemee, with several other smaller villages dotted throughout the region. Small business is the predominant economic driver. Largest work sectors by employee are retail, health care and social services, education and accommodation/food services. The average household income is slightly below the provincial average. Industry is virtually non-existent and manufacturing is very limited. Due to its proximity to both the GTA and cottage country (the Kawarthas, Haliburton and Muskoka), Lindsay is an attractive destination for retirees. The CKL's senior population (age 60 and up) is 50 per cent higher than the provincial average (approximately 20 per cent of the population). The geographic location in Central East Ontario, combined with a lower cost of living than the GTA, make the community an attractive destination for seniors. The extension of Highway 407 to connect with Highway 115/35 by 2020 is expected to support increased movement of people and goods from the eastern GTA, and to help facilitate employment and population growth in the CKL. Ross Memorial Hospital, a full service accredited health service provider, is one of the town's largest employers and has recently undergone a major expansion. Some other large employers are the Trillium Lakelands District School Board, Sir Sandford Fleming College (Frost Campus), and the Central East Correctional Centre. A significant number of local residents are employed outside of town and commute to Oshawa and the GTA area.

6 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 4 Agriculture remains a major economic driver predominantly beef and dairy cattle, as well as grains and oil seeds, and a growing number of dairy goat farms. An annual event is the Lindsay Central Exhibition, which plays host to some of the biggest agricultural shows in the province. Other economic drivers are arts, culture and heritage, some manufacturing, and a vibrant downtown that provides all business and public services and amenities. Within the town of Lindsay and surrounding area, there are 17 junior elementary schools, 3 senior elementary schools and 3 secondary schools, offering all the mainstream programs from junior kindergarten to the Grade 12 graduation program. One elementary school is dedicated to French Immersion stream students, offering a complete program from Senior Kindergarten through Grade 8. There are also a number of Roman Catholic and private schools in the area. Lindsay has a wide array of retirement and senior living options, from condominiums and apartments, to retirement and assisted living and long-term care facilities. Living choices in town include apartments and older, century homes in the core area, and a growing number of modern neighbourhoods on the town's outskirts. Construction of hundreds of new homes is expected in the next decade. Developers have targeted the community as a destination for people moving out of the GTA when considering places to live in retirement. Our area offers many outdoor recreational opportunities. There is a wide array of trail systems for hiking and biking, including the Trans Canada Trail. Downhill skiing and snowboarding are offered at two nearby ski resorts, and cross country ski trails are maintained throughout the area. Lakes and rivers provide recreational water activities in the summer. Full municipal services include public transit in Lindsay. A modern recreational centre has twin ice pads, a fitness centre and a public pool for recreation, exercise and swimming lessons for all ages. The Academy Theatre of Performing Arts also located in our town is the oldest facility of its kind in Ontario. Cultural offerings are provided through a local art gallery, museum, historic theatre for live entertainment, and library. There is a wide array of non-profit organizations that offer volunteer opportunities. Two provincial parks are located within the CKL, along with several conservation areas and nature centres. A popular farmers market operates each Saturday in Lindsay from spring to late fall.

7 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 5 Cambridge St. United Church Sanctuary Pastoral Charge Profile: Other Places of Worship in the Community Bethel Evangelical Missionary Calvary Pentecostal Church Cambridge Street Baptist Christian Reform Church Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Fairview Baptist Church Faith Christian Fellowship Liberty Baptist Church Lindsay Gospel Hall Lindsay Seventh-Day Adventist Church Masjid Lindsay Mosque New Apostolic Church Peoples Full Gospel Church Queen Street United Church Salvation Army St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church St. Mary's Catholic Church St. Paul's Anglican Church What is our Relationship with other Churches/Denominations? There is a good relationship between Cambridge Street and other Churches in our community including: World Day of Prayer; World Religion Day. What is our Unique Ministry in this Community? CSUC has many inviting meeting rooms including a Gymnasium. These areas are utilized by the many groups within our Church family for various functions as well as the community at large. Some of the functions include: Annual Teas and Bazaars, Annual Rummage Sales, Ham Dinner, Roast Beef Dinner, Prayer Shawl Knitting Circle, Vacation Bible Study, Walter Auld Luncheon Series, Lindsay Scouts, Beavers and Cubs, Girl Guides, Youth Groups, Social Groups, Seekers, Bible Study, Resource Library. CSUC supports the lunch program at King Albert School, PFLAG, A Place Called Home, Habitat for Humanity and The Food Source.

8 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 6 Christmas is a special time at CSUC with our Living Christmas, complete with live animals, beautiful costumes and a real baby. We also have a Candlelight service with communion later the same evening. Volunteers surround the church with candles which extend down the streets. A truly spiritual sight on Christmas Eve. Choral music is an integral part of our worship - a means of expressing the faith and experiencing the gift of the Spirit. There are almost 100 members actively involved in the Ministry of Music at CSUC. Through our Director of Music, we offer an extensive choral program for all ages. The Cherub Choir, The Voices of Victory Choir, The Cambridge Street Singers, Cambridge Street Bell Choir and the worship band. CSUC also has a Casavant Organ that was dedicated in 1913 and has three manuals, 34 speaking stops and 2249 pipes. We are also very fortunate to have a Congregational Designated Ministry Lay Person, Nancy Payne. Her role encompasses many pieces but the primary responsibility is visiting those who are no longer able to come to church. She also undertakes other responsibilities including: Conducting worship services at nursing homes once every four weeks and leading worship services at Cambridge Street a few times a year Presiding over funerals, memorial services and interments when the minister has requested such Attending meetings of the Visitation Committee and helping with its annual workshop for visitors and others, and the annual appreciation coffee hour Organizing occasional events such as the crokinole afternoon, potluck meals, the fall leaf tour, etc. to encourage mixing of social groups and different ages Co-ordinating a small group that meets about every three weeks to write cards of sympathy, friendship, celebration, thanks, etc. on behalf of the church Making phone calls and visits to hospital, in consultation with the minister, when a need for contact from the church is established. Providing some pastoral care during youth group activities so they too feel treated with respect and love and connected to the church as a whole Once Upon a Parable

9 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 7 CAMBRIDGE STREET UNITED CHURCH 2017 STANDING COMMITTES CHAIR VICE-CHAIR PAST CHAIR RECORDING SECRETARY CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE Faith Development Committee Sub-committee of C.E. Committee CONGREGATION COMMITTEE Pastoral Visitation Committee Sub-committee of Congregation Committee FINANCE COMMITTEE OUTREACH COMMITTEE PROPERTY COMMITTEE STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE WORSHIP COMMITTEE Music Committee Sub-committee of Worship Committee MINISTRY & PERSONNEL COMMITTEE PRESIDENT - UCW PRESBYTERY REPRESENTATIVES BOARD OF TRUSTEES

10 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 8 Resources Profile Operating Budget: The most recent operating statements, from the congregation's 2016 annual report, are attached for information. These provide a detailed breakdown of income and expenses by category. The total budget for the congregation is approximately $310,000. Property: Cambridge Street United Church is a magnificent house of worship, with the current building dating back to 1871, though the congregation has roots dating to The Heritage Campaign conducted in 2000 generated pledges totaling more than $200,000 and allowed for extensive renovation of the sanctuary, upgrades to the heating system, electrical upgrades and many other improvements to the physical plant. The congregation normally shows generous ongoing commitment to the upkeep of its place of worship. The Church provides approximately 635 seats between main floor and balcony, and currently averages 148 Sunday attendance, except for special occasions. An aspired increase in weekly attendance is considered a significant Congregational goal. Trusts: Cambridge Street United Church has been the grateful recipient of many trusts and estates throughout its history. A summary of Trust activity is attached for information. Volunteer Support: Our congregation is very active and supportive. A total of 84 people serve on the various committees and subcommittees; including Elders, members at large and youth Elders.

11 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 9 Operating Budget Cambridge Street 2017 January - December 2017 Actual 2016 Budget 2016 Budget 2017 Income 4010 Local Givings 246, , , Loose Givings 6,918 7,000 7, Fundraising Revenue 18,980 13,000 15, Rentals of Space Income 5,966 6,000 6, Solar Panel Revenue 11,156 11,000 11, Shopping Card Revenue 1,200 1,000 1, Wedding and Funeral Revenue Capital Donations Memorial Donations 5, UCW Home Committment 6,000 6,000 6, Observer Subscription 840 1,000 1, UCW Special Gift 6, Heritage Fund - Donations 2, Total Income 311, , ,000 Expenses 5010 Payroll Expenses 246, , , Office Supplies & Postage 5,708 8,040 7, Telephone 1,536 1,070 1, Internet 1, , Newsletter & Printing , Observer 1,016 1,000 1, Music Expenses 7,906 6,600 8, Bank Charges 1, , Miscellaneous Charges Professional Services Expense 7,118 2,500 3, Presbytery Dues 7,629 7,600 7, Utilities 17,937 25,520 21, Repairs and Maintenance 25,035 39,040 32, Repairs and Maintenance- Heritage Funded 2, Insurance Expense 10,554 10,700 10, Elevator & Chairlift Expense 1,827 3,135 3, Solar Panel Trust Reimbursement 3,600 3,600 3, Wedding and Funeral Expenses Nursery Expenses , Congregation Committee Outreach Committee Expenses 4,000 4,000 4, Stewardship Committee Expenses Worship Committee 4,592 4,000 4,000 Total Expenses 351, , ,917 Net Operating Income (Deficit) -39,605-60,700-53, Trust Income Accessibility & Repair Fund 0 43, , Trust Income Other 12,975 13, Capital Expenses -12,975-56, , Trust Income Jamieson 738 1,500 1, Benevolent Fund Expense ,500-1, Trust Income Stinson Trust 5,046 3,200 6, Flower Sponsor Donations 1, Flowers & Shrubs -4,446-4,100-4, Stinson Memorial Lecture Expense -1, , Trust Income Ruth White Trust 2,500 2,500 2, CE Committee Expenses -2,500-2,500-2, Trust Income Blackwell Ministry Candidates

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13 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 11 Position Profile Easter Sunday 2016 The Minister is responsible for serving the ministerial needs of Cambridge Street United Church, in accordance with the Order of Ministry within the United Church of Canada. This position reports directly to the Official Board of Cambridge Street United Church and will have overall pastoral responsibility for a congregation of over 600 members and adherents. It is expected that the Minister will lead Sunday Worship on a weekly basis, which includes spending the necessary time to prepare and deliver a pertinent and meaningful message (sermon) to the congregation. Teaching and guidance of Confirmation Classes, Bible Study groups and other church programs will also be included in the Minister s job description. The conducting of Baptisms, Weddings, Funerals, Memorial Services, etc. as well as any counseling will be performed as necessary. A Congregational Designated Ministry Lay Person is currently employed by the Church on a part time basis, and a Visitation Committee currently makes calls on congregation members on a quarterly basis. The Minister will, however, spend time as necessary visiting members in hospital (current and long-term facilities), and home visitation to members. It is important that the Minister foster and maintain a positive spiritual relationship with all members of the congregation, plus adherents. In the event that an Associate Minister is employed, the Minister will oversee, and coordinate the duties of this associate. The Minister will provide leadership and a positive working relationship with all staff members and regular co-ordination with the music director, for this important part of our Church. It is expected that the Minister will be an active member of the Kawartha Highlands Presbytery, and a member (at their discretion) of the Lindsay Ministerial Association. Attendance at Official Board and Worship Committee meetings is necessary to provide guidance and participate in these important gatherings. Attendance at other Committee meetings is at the discretion of the Minister, unless requested by the Committee Chair.

14 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 12 Minister Skills Profile Academic and Experience: Full time ordained Minister Category D to F Balances Own Spiritual Development with That of Congregation Strong Leader Who Relates To All Age Groups Personal Management Skills: Honesty, integrity, personal ethics Positive attitude toward growth and change Energy and initiative to get the job done Excellent time management and conflict resolution skills Accountability to actions taken Respect for diversity and room for differing theological opinions Open-minded, compassionate Able to mend fences and build bridges Well-rounded skills in preaching, visiting, administration Concerned with social action, outreach, community-minded Teamwork Skills: Understand and carry forth the vision of the Church Challenge our faith community and help us to reach our dreams Able to work well with all team, staff, volunteers, Church family Model excellent communication and make decisions with team Offer staff meetings, opportunities for learning Belief in the priesthood of all believers Approach your role with enthusiasm!

15 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 13 Terms Profile Our congregation, through its Official Board and Ministry and Personnel Committee, works with their Joint Search Committee to tailor an appropriate compensation package. There is a significant degree of flexibility and negotiation with respect to the major components of a remuneration package for the candidate with necessary "fit "for Cambridge Street United Church. With our Position Profile and Skills Profile as above, some of the basic terms and salary components we would propose are as follows: I. Full time employment. II. III. IV. Full time secretarial assistance for 12 months of the year. Base salary above United Church of Canada minimum scale. Annual vacations to be negotiated as reasonably required as part of compensation package. V. Mandated study leaves with book and study allowance to be negotiated. VI. VII. VIII. All required pension, group insurance, telephone contributions as detailed in United Church of Canada Employment Policy. Travel expense reimbursement, and Moving expenses as agreed upon.

16 JNAC Report 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Page 14 Recommendations of the JNAC Committee A Minister who is inclusive and who is willing to help the congregation grow. The Minister provides encouragement to new members and fosters the relationships with existing members. A personable disposition is also desired. A Minister who recognizes that the Music and Outreach programs are pillars of Cambridge Street United Church and is focused not only on supporting these programs but expanding them. A Minister who is able to deliver an intellectual and inspiring sermon that is easy to understand and that relates to everyday life. A Minister that places significant emphasis on spiritual development and who helps the congregational members nurture their faith and relationship with God A Minister who encourages congregational members including youth members to participate in the many groups/committees that Cambridge Street United Church offers. There may be the opportunity for a Youth Minister and this position should be welcomed. A Minister who recognizes that Cambridge Street United Church is a special community that should be not only consulted, but directly involved in the planning and implementation of Church programs and events. We are a team and should be led by a team player. A Minister who is willing to become a resident of the City of Kawartha Lakes and who can assist in establishing connectivity with other local organizations and institutions.

17 JNAC SURVEY AND SUMMARY RESULTS 2017 Cambridge Street United Church Lindsay, ON Survey Poster

18 YOUR CHURCH PARTICIPATION 157 surveys completed, 506 members 31% Data for Summary % based on the 157 completed surveys 1. How long have you been a member of Cambridge Street United Church? 9 One year or less years years years or more years 48 % of surveys completed by members 20 or more years 2. What is your age? 4 Under to to to to and over 27% persons were between 55 to 69 years old 52% persons were over 70 years old 3. On average, how many times have you attended church worship during the past year? 5 None 12 About once a month 7 About once or twice a year 64 About two or three times a month 10 Once or twice every three months 58 Four times a month or more 40% about two or three times a month 37% four times a month or more 4. In how many church organizations, committees, and groups do you hold membership)? 31 None 33 Two 15 Four or more 35 One 33 Three 80 % of memberships are involved in at least one group 5. Has your involvement in the congregation increased, decreased, or remained about the same in the last few years? 40 Increased 83 Remained the same 32 Decreased 25% increased 53% remained the same 20% decreased 6. If your participation has INCREASED, which of the following are reasons for that? (check all that apply): 18 More time available 2 Better health 22 Accepted office or other new responsibility in the church 8 Stronger faith 12 More positive attitude toward the church 6 Because of children 30% Increased due to time, accepted roles and a more positive attitude 7. If your participation has DECREASED, which of the following are reasons for that? (check all that apply): 11 Less time available 21 Health problems 7 Given up office or other new responsibility in the church 3 Decreased faith 12 Less positive attitude toward the church 4 Because of children 20% cited less time and health problems reason for decreased participation 10% cited less positive attitude toward church and decreased faith as reason or decreased participation

19 TASKS OF THE CHURCH Listed below are a number of tasks that a local church is likely to perform. Please respond to each item by indicating whether you feel your congregation needs to give it more emphasis; whether you are very or generally satisfied with your congregation's current performance of the task; or whether you feel the task currently receives too much emphasis. 1 Offering worship that provides a meaningful experience of God and the Christian tradition 2 Providing worship that expresses the Gospel in contemporary language and Needs More Emphasis Very Satisfied Generally Satisfied Receives Too Much Emphasis forms 3 Providing Christian education for children and youth Providing Christian education programs for adults Helping members deepen their personal, spiritual relationship with God Engaging in acts of charity and service to persons in need Encouraging members to act on the relationship of the Christian faith to social, political, and economic issues Providing a caring ministry for the sick, shutins and the bereaved Providing pastoral counselling to help members deal with personal problems Providing fellowship opportunities for members Helping members understand their use of money, time and talents as expressions of Christian stewardship Supporting the global mission of the church/denomination Participating in activities and programs with other local religious groups Expressing our denominational heritage/ tradition Totals Overall, which ONE task does your congregation do best? # 6 (62% Very Satisfied) For the sake of your own personal involvement in this congregation, which ONE task would you most like to see strengthened? # 13 (47% Generally Satisfied) Based on 157 completed surveys concerning Tasks of the church 15% Needs More Emphasis 43% Very Satisfied 45% Generally Satisfied 2% Receives Too Much Emphasis Small margin of error due to incorrectly completed surveys

20 WORSHIP For you, personally, how important are each of the following in the mix of qualities that make a good worship service? Needs More Emphasis Very Satisfied Generally Satisfied Receives Too Much Emphasis 1 Providing time for members to greet one another Providing worship that is emotionally moving Providing worship that is intellectually challenging Attention given to sacraments Lay person participation in leading worship Use of inclusive, non-sexist language Use of creeds or statements of faith Silent prayer/meditation Having parts of the worship especially for children Use of new or unfamiliar hymns Incorporate prayer in which the entire congregation participates Providing worship at times other than Sunday morning Use of contemporary worship styles, music and language Consistent length of worship service Totals Based on 157 completed surveys concerning Worship 10% Needs More Emphasis 41% Very Satisfied 42% Generally Satisfied 3% Receives Too Much Emphasis

21 For you, personally, how important are each of the following in the mix of qualities that make for a good sermon? Essential Important Not very important Distracting 1 Sets forth a clear faith position as a guide for making decisions and living a faithful life Based on a clear, unambiguous religious authority Touches directly on my everyday life Contains scholarly or literary illustrations Is biblically based and illustrated Makes me reflect on issues and events that go beyond my personal life and local community Is challenging and thought-provoking Obviously flows from the depth of the preacher's own personal faith and spiritual convictions Is comforting and reassuring Is carefully composed and skillfully delivered Is spiritually moving and inspirational Sets forth various sides of an issue without advocating one position as the only Christian position Totals Based on 157 completed surveys concerning qualities of a good sermon 30% Essential 51% Important 13% Not very important 1% Distracting

22 EVANGELISM / SHARING THE FAITH In thinking about what ORIGINALLY attracted you to this congregation, select from the list below those reasons that best match your reasons for coming. You may select more than one. 69 The Minister 8 Adult education program 75 My friends/family are here 41 Child and youth program 55 The church's reputation 84 The music program 48 The social outreach 52 The worship style 6 The self-help groups 52 The denominational ties 36 Inclusive 21 Other. Building hope for change Time of worship Invitation Couples group In thinking about what KEEPS you as part of this congregation, select from the list below those reasons that best match your reasons for coming. You may select more than one. 84 The Minister 15 Adult education program 105 My friends/family are here 30 Child and youth program 54 The church's reputation 120 The music program 67 The social outreach 96 The worship style 13 The self-help groups 52 The denominational ties 63 Inclusive 12 Other.VOV Comfortable, social responsibility Fellowship, dedication of members Take away Congregation stay because of friends/family 67% and our music program 76%

23 TASKS OF THE MINISTER In your judgement, how high or low a priority would you like each of the following to be for the minister of this church? It is worth remembering that not every task can be highest priority, and that in reality, only 3 or 4 probably can be. You may want to read the entire list, then go back and make your priority rankings. Very high priority High priority Moderate priority Low priority 1 Providing administrative leadership for the congregation's ministry Actively and visibly supporting the church's stewardship program Directly involving the congregation in the planning and leadership of church programs and events Planning and leading a program of new member recruitment Participating in local community activities, issues and problems Bringing attention to social justice issues Planning and leading worship sensitive to the needs of the congregation Emphasizing the spiritual development of members Visiting the sick, shut-in and bereaved Visiting members at their homes Pastoral counseling of members having personal, family and/or work related problems Developing and supporting religious education programs for children and youth Developing and leading adult education programs Supporting the world mission of the church Participating in denominational activities beyond the local church, that is, at the regional or national level Preparing and preaching inspiring sermons Totals Based on 157 completed surveys concerning Tasks for the minister congregation seems more divided 20% Very high priority 37% High priority 34% Moderate priority 8% Low priority