European Institute of Christian Studies

Congregational Development is the development of congregations of all sizes, locations, and conditions into more faithful, healthy, and effective communities of faith that are:

• Focused on and faithful to their unique reason for being—their primary task—as congregations. Congregations are local expressions of the Body of Christ.
• Connected to and expressive of their unique ecclesial tradition, ethos, and character.
• Self-renewing and responsive to the challenges and opportunities before them.
• Sustainable or working toward greater sustainability in terms of a fit between the elements of their organizational life: vision for ministry, leadership, culture, size, property, finances, etc.
• Fostering a culture of transparency, courage, flexibility, collaboration, and forgiveness in which the congregation and its leaders have a greater sense of choice.

The Rev. Dan Morrow has been a trainer at the College for over 10 years and has received positive input in the Convocation for this work.  There are currently 2 certified trainers in addition, and four who are working to complete the training.