short explanation of the process. Draft a pilot ministry proposal. Consider creating a draft “reentry ministry proposal” that can act as the guiding document as you proceed with the wider congregation. Even with all the changes you’ll likely make to it during a time of discernment, planning, rollout, and implementation, this draft document can be the touchstone for people so that they know what’s being proposed. Consider using the “Four P’s” to frame your communication. This is a help- ful tool for leaders to guide their congregation during times of change. It com- municates most powerfully when used in the following order: Picture. Begin by painting a picture for people of what this will look and feel like five years from now. Inspire yourself and others. Purpose. Next, make your “why” abundantly clear so that you can keep going when things get difficult. Plan. Show people that you’ve done some hard thinking and have a well-con- ceived plan, even as you acknowledge all the things you don’t know yet. Place. Finally, be sure to let everyone know what role they could play in this new ministry opportunity. Start working with the whole congregation. Share your draft proposal. Be sure to leave plenty of time for others to absorb the biblical foundation and paradigm shift this ministry entails. Reframing our thinking and letting go of old thought patterns and instinctive reactions is usually a process, not an event. Allow space for a certain amount of pushback. If people aren’t wres- tling with this and asking tough questions, then they’re probably not being responsible adults. Again, consider using the Six Thinking Hats approach to elicit everyone’s thoughts and feelings. People will appreciate being respected and included in this process. Ask your people whether they’re willing to “try a ministry experiment” and assure them that you’re ready to dial things back if needed. There are almost always ways to start small, see how things develop, and then scale up.
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