Congregational Growth Ministry Team minutes

Last meeting: Dec. 2, 2008

Attendees:

Gary Akgulian

Bob Heil

Dale Hershfield

Shannon Howard

Lance Schmidt

Jen Wageman

Staff:

Pastor Dismer

Jan Sommerfeld

Excused:

Rich Flamang

Collin Goldschmidt

Items that may require Council action: None

Items that may require budget/finance coordination: None

Important items of information:

Digital picture frames: The team discussed the pros and cons of purchasing a digital picture frame for the Gathering Areas to display photos reflecting life at FELC. The general consensus was that a computer purchased in conjunction with the Connection Center would be more practical and serve the same purpose.

FELC Connection Center update: This concept is being developed with an estimated roll-out within six months. A computer will be integrated into the unit when it can be funded.

Tracking membership growth: The team discussed methods to measure the church’s growth and track these trends semi-annually over the next four years in order to meet the goal of a 5 percent annual increase in members and program participation set by the Council in its 2012 strategic vision. Suggestions include tallying the number of:

1. New members registered in New Member Sessions

2. Simply Giving participants

3. Sunday School students

4. Confirmation students

5. Transfers/deaths

6. Inactive members

7. Worship attendance

8. Adult education classes attendance

9. Members who complete Time & Talent forms

10. Members who serve at FELC – or in the community – but don’t complete a formal Time & Talent form

Ministry team recruitment: Team members were encouraged to invite folks who may be interested in joining the Growth Ministry Team to our Jan. 13 meeting in the Fellowship Hall at the Downtown Site.

Submitted by:

Jan Sommerfeld