A new initiative has emerged from our Pastoral Search findings reported from NL Moore. In their gathering of data from our online survey and focus groups, four areas of immediate concern have been identified. They believe we need to address these prior to the arrival of a new Senior Pastor. These areas include conflict within our church, an unclear organizational structure, a depleted staff with an unclear working dynamic, and a low trust in the governing structure of Session. We believe with initiative we can address these areas of concern and increase communication, unity, and our overall church health.

As a result of these findings, Session approved the Pastoral Search Committee’s recommendation for the engagement of Rick Clapp and his company, Beyond Survival, which is in the business of solving church problems. Rick will be on site May 18-21 for his initial interviews and assessment. This is not another survey; this is an action process. While here, Rick will develop an action plan, and identify a key leader from staff and session to be the plan champion for implementation. Over the next six months he will coach and monitor progress on deliverables working through these plan champions. I will be involved as the monitor and communication link between this effort, Rick Clapp, and the congregation.

NL Moore and the search committee will continue to focus on finding and engaging our new Senior Pastor. Purposefully, these are two tracks, one on search and one on actionable solutions. The result of this two-pronged effort will be a realignment of New Hope to both receive and retain our new Senior Pastor in an environment and governance structure matched to our long terms goals. Please join us in covering these initiatives with prayer as we seek to fulfill our churches mission to glorify God and make disciples by living out the gospel together.

Prayerfully,
Ashley Kelley