Findings in more detail, Part 2

Sunday's post listed our CAT Findings #1 - 3 (out of 20 total) and we'll continue the series today with Findings #4 - 6.

From BridgeDesign for Sylvania UCC, FINDINGS:

Finding #4

On the whole, Sylvania UCC is theologically progressive. However, it is important to also recognize that there is a relatively high level of theological diversity among members of the congregation. Approximately one in six respondents (16%) clearly agrees that the Bible is the literal Word of God without error of any kind. About a third (56%) clearly disagrees with the same statement. The unusual capacity of a church to live with this level of diversity is almost always a reflection of a pastor who has helped negotiate these differences.

Finding #5

Sylvania UCC is very flexible in its approach to change. This flexibility appears to be moderate in the area of worship, but high or very high regarding efforts to address the needs of those in the community and those within the church, and the willingness to deviate from an established way of doing things. Overall, Sylvania UCC appears to be more adaptable than 83% of the churches in the database.

Finding #6

The combination of a more progressive theological perspective combined with a flexible approach to change reflects an organizational culture that is typically well-educated, articulate, analytic, curious and open. Persons in this culture tend to approach problems from a systems perspective and the need to develop safeguards for those with minority status or who lack the power to protect themselves. They also tend to be permission-based, inviting members to take initiative in a variety of areas with relatively modest support from or accountability to the formal structure of the church. The shadow side of this organizational culture is that it may perceive the development of a specific collective vision as closing down dialogue and, therefore, fail to capitalize on opportunities that require a coordinated, system-wide response. While rationally robust, this organizational culture may tend to intellectualize issues and may struggle to deal with the emotional and relational side of life in a direct and healthy manner.


So, good stuff to mull over! Consider the above Findings, along with the others, and engage fellow church members in conversation. Remember our forum on Sunday, January 22, 2 to 4 pm, where we will further discuss the survey results.

-- Bonnie