Strategic Planning - Jacksonville Baptist Association

Why does a church even need to plan?

Some may feel that planning is a human tool that bypasses the Holy Spirit. But we believe it can be a vital tool of the Holy Spirit. The easiest course for a church to follow is no course. Experience shows that planning is a common denominator of healthy, growing churches. Lyle Schaller says, there is a natural tendency for any organization (including the church) to become directionless. Effective churches ask , What do we believe God desires our church to accomplish, and how best can we do that?

What is Values-based Planning?

Values-Based Planning is a new and different way of church strategizing (planning). What's different about VBP and traditional planning models? Traditional planning methods involve huge efforts in detailed research, extensive data gathering and analysis and voluminous plans that often end up in a notebook on a shelf gathering dust. VBP does take into consideration available statistical information, but it looks at where the congregational members really are in their passions and desires, and then builds on those core values. Those goals which a church projects to do because they express its core values, are accompanied by the strength of will and determination to see completed.

What role does the Jacksonville Baptist Association play?

Our ministerial staff members have been trained in VBP. They would serve as consultants (at no charge) to the local church.

Who would lead the process in the local church?

It is to be largely pastor-led with coaching by a trained VBP consultant (A JBA staff member).

How long does the VBP process take?

The process is designed to be completed in 3 - 6 months, but the scheduling is flexible.

What can our church expect from VBP?