Common questions

Our congregation is small; does our experience still matter?

Absolutely. One of the goals of this research is to ensure that congregations of all sizes are represented. Small congregations often have the most creative and relational discipleship practices.

We don't have a formal discipleship program. Should we still respond?

Yes. Many congregations practice discipleship without naming it. The survey is designed to surface what you're actually doing, not just what's on a program calendar.

What does Phase 2 participation involve?

Selected congregations would participate in a focus group and/or individual interviews with pastoral staff and lay leaders. Some congregations may be invited for a site visit during the researcher's 2027 sabbatical. All Phase 2 participation is voluntary.

Will my congregation be identified in the published research?

Not without your explicit permission. Survey responses are reported in aggregate. If your congregation is featured as a case study in Phase 2, that would be discussed and agreed upon before any publication.