Planning for Change: Strategies for Implementing Change in your Ministry

In an ideal world, ministries could function the same throughout the ages. But the truth is, our societies and the way we live, work, and gather change. We’ve seen technology develop leaps and bounds over the years giving ministries more ways to reach people. We’ve seen a pandemic change the way that we worship, do our jobs, and get together. So, it’s safe to say that change is inevitable.

How Do You Know When Your Ministry Needs a Change?

It’s easy to know you need to make a change when an outside factor comes along to disrupt the status quo. But without those external pushes, how do you know when it’s time to make a change? An easy indicator is when you see your staff, congregation, students, campers, etc. start to check out, plateau, or even stop participating in your ministry altogether. These indicators can be the catalyst for you to move toward change.

Involve Your People

Knowing exactly what the change needs to be is the tricky part. Sometimes it will be obvious, but other times, you’ll have to do some discovery. When Station 19 is first working with a client, we start with surveys, questionnaires, and listening sessions to better understand their ministry’s needs. Taking the time to involve the people you serve can help you better understand what their needs are and give them an opportunity to be involved in the conversation and decisions for moving forward. Depending on the size of your group, this can be accomplished through polls, surveys, or individual conversations.

Provide Consistent Communication and Be Transparent

Throughout each step of your process toward change, it is important to communicate consistently with your people. Let them know what changes are coming and when. Be sure they have the opportunity to be involved in some of the decision-making, or take part in implementing the change themselves. And be as transparent as possible—people don’t want to feel like they're in the dark. Engage people in every step of the process, creating a sense of community and camaraderie around change.

Celebrate Together

Take time to celebrate your wins together! Change can be difficult for many people. When you take the time to celebrate with one another, it recognizes the good that the change is bringing to your ministry.

Keep Thinking About the Future

Let this moment of change propel you and your ministry team toward more future thinking. The more that you can plan for the future, the easier it will be for you to pivot when unexpected change comes your way.

Station 19 isn’t just in the business of great architecture. We are ministry specialists who can provide strategy and consultation for your ministry through Strategic Master Planning. Learn more about what we do and reach out when you’re ready to Create Space for Change!