The “Why” of Good Shepherd . . . and why it matters

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At the Annual Meeting, I presented, on behalf of the Transition/Visioning Team, a pie chart that represented “A Vision of Good Shepherd.” The chart is a product of the months of listening, talking, praying, and imagining what Good Shepherd might “be” in the years to come. And, of course, what it “might be” is heavily dependent on what it has been.  We believe the chart reflects all of that, both looking back and looking ahead. [The chart is based on the “Golden Circle”, developed by Simon Sinek (a video explaining that can be found here). Sinek argues that it is critical for an organization to understand why it exists, and to see everything else it does in relation to that “Why”.]

As the Transition/Visioning Team went about its work, it became evident that this model could be very helpful in mapping Good Shepherd’s way forward. We recognized that establishing relationships was at the core of so much that the church does. And, as I pointed out, we do that in different ways, depending upon the “Who” it is with whom we wish to relate. So, the chart became a very visual representation of what Good Shepherd does (and has done) well. It also suggested that there were areas where the church’s efforts had been less robust.

I invite you to take a good look at the chart (it can be downloaded here). It is not meant to be a “static representation”, but, rather, one that changes over time. Indeed, between the time it was developed and the Annual Meeting, there were several things that were added—some because we simply forgot, and others (like the Living Nativity) that hadn’t been developed. The chart invites you into the life of the church. You may see mentions of current programs and wonder “What’s “Hungry Flock?” You may see gaps (as in bottom third of the chart), and say, “I think I’d be interested in being involved in “Invite/Welcome/Connect” (IWC)! Or, “I have a passion for social justice, and I’d like to engage with like-minded folks at church.”

If you have any questions or concerns, or simply want to know more, let me know!  Why? Because we’re Good Shepherd!