| Transforming Congregations Why Bother?
By Rev. Kendall M. Taylor,
Executive Director Office of Congregational Transformation
 What’s
all the fuss about ‘transformation’ anyway? You know, it’s
important to revisit the basic assumptions we live by from time to
time. That is true especially when we are beginning a new venture like
‘transformation.’ What is the most basic truth that underpins the
existence of the Church? I add my answer to the many others that have
been written.
Our gracious Creator loves us, warts and all!
Most importantly he loves me...he loves you. God knows us each one by
name and has literally died (crucifixion) to get that message across.
God’s love is that personal. We are the recipients of a gift that
could never be earned, and that endows us with great worth and
significance. No matter what the circumstances, no matter how badly I
fail, no matter what anyone else says about me, God says I am (you
are) worth dying for! Think on that. This reality stirs in me the most
profound sense of gratitude and responding love for God. How about
you? In the pit of your stomach what do you feel (not think) when
considering the sacrifice God made for you and the continuing
friendship God cultivates with you? Take a minute and reflect.
Ultimately, it is this action of God that
motivates and stirs passion in individuals like you and me. When
several of us gather as the Church (a congregation) the motivation and
passion is enhanced and reinforced, becoming an awesome channel of God’s
power. We are so in touch with what God has done and continues to do
to affirm, forgive, heal, restore and give purpose to life that we
want everyone to know. The passion, God’s and ours, is that no one
should have to live without this life-giving relationship. This is
what shapes the life of the Church.
When we consider the possibility of ‘transformation’
for our congregations let’s keep in touch with our Source. Then we
will always be connected to and directed by our Strength!
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