2020 Transition Task Force
“‘The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring..’” --Isaiah 58:11
Over the past five months, your Transition Task Force (TTF) has been engaged in a comprehensive study process in preparation for calling a new Senior Pastor. We are pleased to announce that the work has been completed. A preliminary transition report has been submitted to the Bethany Church Council for their review. That report contains several recommendations based on feedback from the Congregational Assessment Tool (CAT) and conversations with staff and church Leadership. This report is a collection of ideas, visions and recommendations from the people of Bethany. Once Council has had the opportunity to review the report, it will be made available for the congregation to review and provide comment. Once approved, this report will be given to the Bethany Call Committee to assist them in their work of calling a Senior Pastor for Bethany.
The Task Force studied three broad areas; Mission & Vision, Self Study and Staffing & Leadership. Recommendations from each area, along with supporting documentation, is provided in the report. As a result of these efforts, each team has developed preliminary recommendations to the council regarding the future structure, mission/vision, staffing, committee formation and pastoral leadership at Bethany.
- The current mission statement was affirmed, along with supporting vision statements.
- There was overwhelming support for reaching out to new families and developing outreach efforts/programs at Bethany.
- Movement toward Becoming an Inclusive Church was also supported in the CAT survey and recommended by the transition committee, along with the welcome statement.
- A slightly revised staffing structure was recommended along with the formation of supporting infrastructure policy and procedure to guide the staff.
- Overall improved communication between the congregation, staff and committees was emphasized along with recommended stronger linkages between committees and Council.
- Additionally, it is recommended that Bethany begin the process of development of a robust Lay Leadership program to assist our Pastors and Staff to address the Mission, Vision and program goals of Bethany.
- It was also recommended that a congregational assessment be completed in 2025 to measure progress and continue future planning.
- Finally, pastoral leadership recommendations were submitted to the council for their prayerful consideration, which include the recommendation to call a Senior Pastor, along with key considerations for that important position.
This document represents the TTF’s preliminary report and recommendations to the council and congregation regarding the work summarized above. Included in this comprehensive report is detailed survey information, team recommendations, conclusions and rationale.
The Transition Task Force is thankful for the leadership provided by Pastor Peter. We are grateful to the Bethany congregation for their confidence in TTF process and their support throughout this process. Thank you for your support and continued prayers.