As momentum continues to build among leaders and congregations for transformational change what was expected is coming to pass: there is more to do than one person can handle. This is both a big problem and wonderful opportunity, and the OCT office has prepared.

Thirty-five coaches have been through five days of training. They will soon be certified and able to interpret to congregational leaders what transformation is about and how the Natural Church Development (NCD) process can assist churches, leading congregations through the steps of the NCD process.

When beginning the yearlong NCD process churches are assigned a coach after consultation with their district superintendent and pastor.

Two documents on the Florida Conference Web site can help churches with the process of transformation. They are “Process of Congregational Transformation” and “The Congregational Transformation Workbook.” Both are worth study and use.

The “Process” explains the steps and timeline of transformation from the beginning through one complete 12- to 15-month cycle, repeated as long as the church finds it beneficial. The “Workbook” explains the Congregational Transformation Survey (CTS), which identifies a category for each congregation and provides suggestions for strengthening ministries in weak areas.

The “Workbook” is valuable to both churches that are involved in the NCD process and those that are not. It provides a comprehensive listing of suggestions to help churches fulfill the Great Commission. Implementing these suggestions should be done for the right reason: fulfilling the Great Commission. Helping a congregation score better the next time it takes the CTS is not sufficient reason.

One final caution: NCD does not come with a guarantee. It works better for some than others, and may not be helpful at all for some. Its value depends, in part, on a congregation’s commitment to the Great Commission and the clarity of purpose that unites that congregation in its ministry.