Background and Rationale
Fixing the System of Church Failure
This is a 14 minute discussion of the need and process of parish self-evaluation. Similar in content to the above slides on "Optimize Parish Health..." but presented in a discussion format.
Also provided is a Briefing Document: The Effective Parish Assessment Program
Rationale, background information and resources for this assessment originate primarily from four sources:
Below are two two-parts to a podcast hosted by Ancient Faith Media on Effective Parish Assessment and Strategic Planning. Click on the image to be taken to the audio description and player.
Bill Marianis presents the Effective Parish Assessment (EPA) as a data-driven "wake-up call" to address the systemic decline facing Orthodox Christian churches in America. By utilizing empirical research and validated tools, the program moves beyond subjective opinions to diagnose "pandemics" such as plummeting youth retention and low liturgical engagement. The source introduces a structural solution centered on six pillars of health, specifically detailing the first three: Vision and Planning, Leadership and Teams, and Stewardship and Generosity. Ultimately, the text serves as an invitation for parishes to undergo a rigorous preliminary improvement plan to ensure they can provide a "good account" of their ministry before the judgment seat of Christ.
Every church does some things well and struggles with others. Join Bill Marianes, Fr. Ted Barbas, Dr. Don Khouri, Panos Coufos and Alex Cooley to discuss the process and results from the first-ever parish strategic planning retreat. Every church does some things well and struggles with others. In Part 2, Join Bill Marianes for a recommended step-by-step parish strategic planning process.
Included here are summaries of the various parts of the Strategic Planning model.
"Faithful intention is not the same as faithful execution. Chapter 7 of the Church Roadmap book addresses one of the most common gaps in church life: the absence of clear, shared, and disciplined planning rooted in a compelling WHY, Core Values, Mission, and Vision for a brighter future. Strategic planning, as presented here, incorporates proven best practices for churches and is not a mere “corporate” exercise or bureaucratic burden."
The complete chapter for Vision and Strategic Planning can be read on Bill Marianes' website (click the adjacent photo) or can be downloaded here.