Our measurement is based upon our four Core Values, the expression of which is not unique. We borrowed the words connect, grow, serve, and share. We define them as: connecting with God through genuine worship; growing to be more like Christ; serving others in Jesus’ name; and sharing the good news. We emphasize that these values be carried out in community.
Because it is so difficult to assess the health of a congregation of any size, we use the Core Values to measure individual departments and then also make it possible for individuals to assess themselves. This follows a set process:
- Each staff member makes a presentation to the entire staff on how their area of ministry is addressing each Core Value.
- They line up their activities and initiatives against that grid for evaluation.
- Together we agree on what the strengths and opportunities are for that ministry area.
- Once all the staff has presented, we look for overall patterns. For instance, we felt that we were information-heavy as a church, focused too much on instruction. As a result, additional practical ministry projects and acts of service were incorporated into several of our programs.
The Core Values are also taught in a series each year. We hold them up as an indicator of what a follower of Christ looks like. During the series, we introduce a self-assessment tool for the congregation in the form of a survey. It begins with these words:
This is for your personal use. The purpose is to help you identify areas of improvement in your spiritual life. Use the following scale to respond to each statement:
Definitely Not – 1 Probably Not – 2 Maybe – 3 Probably – 4 Definitely – 5
The survey poses 36 questions, nine for each Core Value. The questions include:
- I am aware of a number of practices that help me deepen my relationship with God
- I have a group of Christians with whom I can be completely open and transparent
- I am able to focus on God during times of worship
- I am aware of opportunities to serve God using my gifts and passions
- I am able to share my own story with others in a way that helps them see Jesus
- I have real friendships with 2 or 3 people who aren’t yet Christians
Each section is totaled, and participants are encouraged to thank God for areas where they are strong, and to develop the areas of opportunity. We provide suggestions for improving their spiritual health in each category.
