Leading Congregational Change: A Practical Guide for the Transformational Journey  (by Jim Herrington, Mike Bonem, and James H. Furr, Jossey-Bass, 2000) Resource Type: Book Main Audience: Pastors and lay leaders who want to seek deep and lasting transformation in their congregations Purchase Now Summary: This book (and workbook) are designed to help pastors and lay leaders guide the process of change in their congregations. It is grounded in the firm belief that congregations are called to live and share the Gospel in their communities. It offers a detailed look at the Congregational Transformation Model developed and used by the Union Baptist Association in Houston, Texas. This model is not denominationally specific. It is designed to describe the complex challenges, steps, and leadership requirements associated with deep, systematic change required for established congregations to truly be transformed. This model has three major components: spiritual and relational vitality; an eight-stage process for change; and four essential learning disciplines. These three major components are briefly described in chapter one and expanded upon in the following chapters. Spiritual and relational vitality are addressed in chapter two. The authors define spiritual and relational vitality as “the life-giving power that faithful people experience together as they passionately pursue God’s vision for their lives.” The authors discuss four elements of spiritual and relational vitality: encountering God’s holiness; experiencing God’s grace; embracing unity; and engaging community. Chapters 3-5 specifically address the eight-stage process for change: 1) making personal preparation; 2) creating urgency; 3) establishing the vision community; 4) discerning the vision and determining the vision path; 5) communicating the vision; 6) empowering change leaders; 7) implementing vision; and 8) reinforcing momentum through alignment. Chapters 6-10 describe the four disciplines of transformational leadership: 1) generating and sustaining creative tension; 2) harnessing the power of mental models; 3) enabling team learning; and 4) practicing systems thinking. The Leading Congregational Change Workbook complements the book by providing specific activities for pastors and leaders in the congregation. | 
