Signs of Hope

What are signs of hope in congregational life today? Eddie Hammett, president of Transforming Solutions, LLC, was asked this question in an interview in the March/April issue of Nurturing Faith Journal. Always looking for positive comments about the future, I found Hammett’s responses to be informative.

First, “the perseverance of the few leaders who are open to the Spirit’s leading, innovative thinking and risk-taking leadership strategies.” My only disagreement with Hammett is that I think there are more than a few congregational and denominational leaders who realize that the old approaches no longer work. Some have realized this too late, I am afraid, but others have caught the wind of the Spirit and are ready to engage in something new.

Second, Hammett cites Christian coaching that offers hope to “individuals, teams, churches, and denominations that face steep learning curves” and “overwhelming challenges” but seek something that is “more transformational and focused on life change.” Coaching engages individuals and groups on a deep level, helping them to discover the resources that are already within their grasp and learning how to utilize them for lasting change. I see this happening more frequently as other approaches have failed.

Third, “congregations open to the Spirit, and to new ways of thinking, collaboration and empowerment rather than a control-and-conquer mentality and vision.” Each person, church, and denominational entity has something unique to offer in Kingdom work. We are not in competition in God’s work but called to work alongside others in our particular area of giftedness. This perspective makes a significant difference in our ministry planning.

Hammett offers some great insights on traditions, trends, and changing times in this interview with John Pierce, editor of Nurturing Faith. I encourage you to read it.

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