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Discerning Church Governance

This course trains churches in communal discernment, guiding them through a structured, four-module program where participants explore the foundations of discernment, learn about church governance, and practice group discernment of their church governance. Through video lessons, facilitated group sessions, and monthly one-on-one spiritual direction, participants will gain tools to apply discernment within their church context.
About

Introduction

Discerning Governance Structure – Overview

Module 1: Fundamentals of Discernment

1.0 Welcome & Overview (20-30 min)
1.1 Conditions of Wise Discernment (30-60 min)
1.2 The Three Occasions for Wise Discernment (30-60 min)
1.3 Consolation & How We Respond (30-60 min)
1.4 Desolation & How We Respond (30-60 min)
1.5 Transitioning to Module 2 (5 min)

Module 2: Understanding Church Governance 

2.1 The Role of Good Structure (20-30 min)
2.2 Models of Church Governance: Traditional Board (15-20 min)
2.3 Models of Church Governance: Elder Models (15-20 min)
2.4 Amendment Option (10 min)

Module 3: The Process of Group Discernment 

3.0 Welcome and Overview (10-15 min)
3.1 Beginning Clear Together (20-30 min)
3.2 Beginning Aligned Together (30-60 min)
3.3 Listening Together (30-60 min)
3.4 Moving Forward Together (30-60 min)

Module 4: Guided Discernment Together

4.0 Welcome and Overview (30-45 min)

Jared Boyd, Instructor

Br. Brian Hohmeier, Instructor

Participants are expected to complete video lessons, participate in leadership team meetings with a discernment guide about once a month, and engage in monthly one-on-one sessions with a spiritual director. Between leadership team meetings, participants should set aside time for prayer, reflection, and discernment practices as prompted in each module. A consistent commitment to the rhythm of learning, practicing, and reflecting will enrich each participant’s experience and support the group’s overall discernment journey.
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