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All Church Survey -‐ 2015

Faith Covenant Church – All Church Survey Results

Congregational Report 5/28/2015 Thank you to everyone who participated in the All Church Survey! The church Council and I have taken the time to review your responses and to do an initial analysis by grouping responses into similar categories. These categories are intended to give us a better understanding of the broader issues identified within the survey results. Within each section of the report, the categories that received the most responses are listed first, essentially creating a prioritized list of responses for each survey question. There are two versions of the survey results included in this report. The first version (pp. 2-‐3) is a “Summary Analysis” that only includes the grouped categories and the number of responses attributed to each category. The “Summary Analysis” is intended to give us a simple, “at-‐a-‐glance” view of the survey results. The second version (pp. 4-‐30) is a “Detailed Analysis” that includes the specific responses that were given for each question. We have edited the detailed responses in an attempt to keep the answers brief and clear. In the editing process, we have worked hard to faithfully represent the clear intent of each answer given. Please review this report and let us know if you have any questions about the process or the results. The next step will be to take these results into our Focus Group discussions. Focus Groups are currently being scheduled and there will be opportunities for everyone to participate. In these discussions, we will be seeking to understand what these results mean for us as a church. We will work for greater understanding about each identified category and we will be exploring the question of what these results tell us about who we are and where we are going. Thank you, again, for your patience and your participation. The results of this survey, and the subsequent conversations that will follow, are a great step forward in helping us to gain PERSPECTIVE on our church. As we have said, healthy PERSPECTIVE is what will allow us to find greater FOCUS and, ultimately, lead to healthy and missional ACTION. We are excited about achieving this first step and enthusiastically anticipate the conversations ahead. -‐ Pastor Kurt & the Church Council

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Summary Analysis Grouped “categories” only, with the number of responses attributed to each category. • 311 EMAIL INVITATIONS / 149 RESONDANTS • 171 UNRESPONDED • + 9 PAPER SURVEYS SUBMITTED

DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION:

1. What is your gender? 144 ANSWERED; 5 SKIPPED • Male 27.78% • Female 72.22%

2. What is your age? 143 ANSWERED; 6 SKIPPED • 14 to 18 0% • 19 to 24 .7% • 25 to 34 4.9% • 35 to 44 11.19% • 45 to 54 19.58% • 55 to 64 29.37% • 65 to 74 21.68% • 75+ 12.59%

3. How long have you attended Faith Covenant Church? 142 ANSWERED; 7 SKIPPED • Less than 1 year 11.27% • 1 to 2 years 5.63% • 3 to 5 years 16.20% • 5 to 10 years 14.79% • More than 10 years 52.11%

CHURCH OVERVIEW:

4. In your opinion, what are the core strengths of Faith Covenant Church? 113 ANSWERED; 45 SKIPPED

• BIBLICALLY BASED (51) • FRIENDLY & WELCOMING FAMILY (33) • GOD FOCUSED – CHRIST CENTERED (28) • GENEROUS MISSION & OUTREACH, LOCAL & GLOBAL (22)

• COMPASSIONATE & CARING (19) • SOLID CORE OF DEDICATED PEOPLE (20) • COMMITTED TO BIBLE STUDY, CLASSES, & TEACHING (16)

• STAFF LEADERSHIP (16) • YOUTH MINISTRY (11) • CHILDREN’S MINISTRY (10)

• STRONG COUNCIL LEADERSHIP (10) • COMMITMENT TO PERSONAL DISCIPLESHIP (9) • MULTI-‐GENERATIONAL (9) • FINANCIAL STABILITY & RESPONSIBILITY (8) • WILLING SERVANTS (7) • WORSHIP SERVICES (6) • CHURCH FACILITIES (5) • EVANGELICAL COVENANT DENOMINATION (3) • PRAYER (2) • SIZE OF THE CHURCH (2)

5. What would you say are the biggest issues needing to be addressed at Faith Covenant Church? 98 ANSWERED; 51 SKIPPED • VISION & MISSION (18) • WORSHIP (16) • GREATER SENSE OF COMMUNITY (15) • STAFFING (14) • SUNDAY SCHOOL/EDUCATION/TRAINING (14) • CHURCH OUTREACH & GROWTH (10) • YOUTH & CHILDREN (8) • SECOND SERVICE WORSHIP (8) • COMMUNICATION (7) • DON’T SEE ANY BIG ISSUES (5) • MISSIONS (5) • DISCIPLESHIP (5) • ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE (4) • FACILITIES (4) • STEWARDSHIP & FINANCES (4)

6. What do you see as the biggest opportunities for ministry in the area around Faith Covenant Church – in our local city or region? 96 ANSWERED; 53 SKIPPED • HOMELESS, POOR & COMMUNITY NEEDS (36) • LOCAL SCHOOL INVOLVEMENT (24) • LOCAL COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS & CHURCH PROMOTION (20)

• CHURCH GROWTH & EVANGELISM (14) • CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES (11) • RECOVERY & SUPPORT MINISTRIES (10) • DISCIPLESHIP & CARE (8) • SENIORS MINISTRY (8) • PARTNERING WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS (5) • ETHNIC & IMMIGRANT MINISTRY (3) • SMALL GROUPS (3) • VISION & MISSION (1) • MISSIONS (1)

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7. What would you say are the top priorities that Faith Covenant Church should focus on as we seek to participate in God's mission in the world? 94 ANSWERED; 55 SKIPPED • LOCAL & GLOBAL MISSIONS, EVANGELISM (52) • DISCIPLESHIP WITHIN THE CHURCH (30) • VISION & MISSION (16) • PRAYER (7) • SUPPORT MINISTRIES (3) • CHURCH GROWTH & EVANGELISM (3) • WILLINGNESS TO CHANGE (2)

PERSONAL INVOLVEMENT: 8. In which of the current types of ministry at Faith Covenant Church do you actively participate? 109 ANSWERED; 40 SKIPPED

• Attend Worship Services – 98.17%

• Attend Adult Sunday School Classes – 37.61%

• Serve on at least one Ministry Team – 50.46%

• Participate in a mid-‐week group or Bible Study – 55.96%

• Participate in a mid-‐week social or athletic activity – 5.50%

9. Do you feel your life experience, skills, and spiritual gifts are being used at Faith Covenant Church? 106 ANSWERED; 43 SKIPPED

• Absolutely – 22.64% • Most of the Time – 31.13% • Some of the Time – 33.96% • Not at all – 12.26%

10. Is there something you are passionate about that the church is not already doing and that you’d be willing to help make happen? If so, what is it? 38 ANSWERED; 111 SKIPPED • SMALL GROUPS / SUPPORT GROUPS (7) • OUTREACH & EVANGELISM (7) • MISSION TRIPS (3) • HOSPITALITY (3) • TEACHING / TRAINING (4) • SYSTEMS (3) • SUPPORT & ENCOURAGEMENT (3) • OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES (CAMPING/OUTINGS) (1)

11. What is your preferred way to receive communication about church events, schedules, and updates? 111 ANSWERED; 38 SKIPPED

• Email (such as Lifeline) – 92.79%

• Bulletin (on Sunday mornings) – 67.57%

• Mail (in my mailbox) – 11.71%

• Website (that I can see anytime I have questions) – 41.44%

• Facebook (or other social media) – 13.51%

• None of the above – 0.00%

12. Please offer any additional thoughts or comments you feel would be helpful in our conversation: 42 ANSWERED; 107 SKIPPED • THANK YOU! • WORSHIP • VISION & MISSION • STAFFING • PRAYER

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Detailed Analysis Grouped “categories” including the detailed responses attributed to each category.

• 311 EMAIL INVITATIONS

• 149 RESONDANTS

• 171 UNRESPONDED

• + 9 PAPER SURVEYS SUBMITTED

DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION:

1. What is your gender? 144 ANSWERED; 5 SKIPPED • Male 27.78%

• Female 72.22% 2. What is your age? 143 ANSWERED; 6 SKIPPED • 14 to 18 0%

• 19 to 24 .7%

• 25 to 34 4.9%

• 35 to 44 11.19%

• 45 to 54 19.58%

• 55 to 64 29.37%

• 65 to 74 21.68%

• 75+ 12.59%

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3. How long have you attended Faith Covenant Church? 142 ANSWERED; 7 SKIPPED • Less than 1 year 11.27%

• 1 to 2 years 5.63%

• 3 to 5 years 16.20%

• 5 to 10 years 14.79%

• More than 10 years 52.11%

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CHURCH OVERVIEW:

4. In your opinion, what are the core strengths of Faith Covenant Church? 113 ANSWERED; 45 SKIPPED BIBLICALLY BASED (51)

1. Biblically Based Classes 2. Bible based 3. Bible based 4. Preaching scripture honestly 5. Bible based teaching 6. Teaching from scriptures 7. Bible based church 8. Preaching the Bible for today’s world 9. Keep God’s Word in and out of service 10. Bible Based 11. God and the Word is the main focus 12. Bible based teaching 13. Believing & teaching that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God 14. Committed to teaching & preaching the Word of God 15. Bible led sermons 16. Following the teachings of the Bible 17. Bible based 18. Scripture based 19. We follow the Bible 20. Sermons based on the Bible 21. Congregational agreement on abiding by the inspired Word of God 22. Biblical foundation 23. Bible believing 24. Biblically based 25. Preaching the Word from the Bible 26. Solid Bible teaching 27. Teaching the teachings of Christ and the whole Bible 28. Preaching the Word of God 29. Sunday messages out of the Bible 30. Preaching from the Bible 31. Bible based in all we do 32. Teaching from the scriptures 33. Bible based with message on Sunday based on Scripture 34. Bible based 35. Study the Bible 36. Strong biblical foundation in sermons, classes, and activities 37. Biblical teaching 38. Belief in the Bible as the true Word of God 39. Our faith in the Bible 40. We are committed to be a biblically based church 41. Following God’s Word 42. Teaching from the Bible 43. Bible based

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44. Believes the inerrancy of the Bible 45. Preaching the Gospels 46. A conservative, biblical view on how we serve Jesus 47. Using a Bible verse for each message 48. Core beliefs 49. Bible based 50. Biblically based 51. Our unity to the Word of God, standing firm on His Word

FRIENDLY & WELCOMING FAMILY (33)

1. Welcoming 2. Friendly 3. Togetherness 4. Fellowship 5. Welcoming 6. Friendly 7. All are welcome 8. Friendly 9. Upbeat 10. Like a family 11. Church has a welcoming nature 12. Feels like family 13. Genuinely welcoming people 14. Feels like family 15. Friendly environment 16. General friendliness 17. Family 18. Friendly 19. Friendliness of the people 20. Tolerance for others 21. Non-‐judgmental attitude of most people 22. Fellowship 23. Strong family relationship 24. Community 25. People were very welcoming when I first visited 26. Community 27. Family 28. Welcoming 29. Relationships 30. Welcoming 31. Welcoming and comfortable atmosphere 32. Community 33. Community

GOD FOCUSED – CHRIST CENTERED (28)

1. Christ centered 2. God centered congregation 3. Focus on Jesus’ presence and power 4. A heart for God 5. Faith of the congregation

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6. Faith in Jesus Christ as Lord & Savior 7. We listen to God and try to follow His leading (e.g. Leaving our denomination was a long, well-‐prayed-‐out

journey) 8. Commitment to faith 9. Continually striving to figure out God’s plan for us and then doing His plan 10. Christ focused 11. Faith in God 12. Love of Jesus 13. Christ centered 14. Wishes to serve our God 15. Strong in the faith of Jesus Christ and his teachings 16. Strong core belief statement 17. Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ 18. A firm foundation centered on Jesus Christ 19. God led 20. Belief in Jesus Christ 21. Trying to hear God’s voice 22. Our faith in God 23. Love of God 24. Faith 25. Seeking relationship with God 26. Believers who really love the Lord as demonstrated by their kindness toward others 27. Follow the Holy Spirit 28. Members dedicated to serving the Lord Jesus Christ

GENEROUS IN MISSION & OUTREACH – LOCAL & GLOBAL (22)

1. Opportunities to use our gifts and reach the community 2. Neighborhood focus 3. Opportunities to bring about change 4. Focused on strengthening the community around us through outreach (VBS, DIVE, Helping Hands, Daffodil

Elementary, and being involved in the community) 5. Connection to our local community 6. Community centered 7. We have as very generous congregation that cares about the community and the world, and gives freely

to help. 8. Involved in the local community 9. Support to the community 10. Love for each other and our community based on the love of God for us 11. Outreach to community 12. Outreach 13. Outreach to share Christ with our world

14. Mission focus 15. The mission work 16. Missional programs 17. Supporting missions 18. Mission – local and global 19. Reach out in missions – locally and globally 20. Mission outreach 21. A mission-‐minded desire to serve others 22. Mission

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COMPASSIONATE & CARING (19)

1. Caring 2. Show of Love 3. Meeting people’s needs 4. Caring & Loving 5. Support given to members 6. We love our people 7. Committed to each other 8. Compassionate people 9. Supportive congregation 10. Loving, caring 11. Loves one another 12. Hospitality 13. By far the most loving and kind, Christ-‐like I have experienced. 14. A loving environment 15. Loving 16. People love each other 17. Compassion 18. Believers who really love the Lord as demonstrated by their kindness toward others 19. Love for each other and our community based on the love of God for us

SOLID CORE OF DEDICATED PEOPLE (20)

1. Core of dedicated people 2. People who want to do what is right 3. The people 4. A solid foundation to build upon 5. A core group of strong believers 6. Dedicated and resilient people 7. People willing to change but are long on tradition, as well 8. The people 9. The people 10. Lay leadership – spirit led for the most part 11. We are dedicated to the success of our church 12. Members who have remained through all the changes and committed to make the church grow and

thrive 13. Members 14. Faithful members 15. People 16. Perseverance 17. The congregation 18. Previously being a community with little to no controversy (prior to all the changes in the last 2-‐3 years –

not sure of the status now?) 19. The people 20. Our unity as a congregation

COMMITTED TO BIBLE STUDY, CLASSES, & TEACHING (16)

1. Small Groups 2. Study groups 3. Classes and spiritual support and growth opportunities offered for many ages [except college age which, I

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think, larger churches than FCC can provide better] 4. Adult classes 5. Critical Thinking 6. Biblically literate people with a lot of gifted teachers 7. Bible studies with rich fellowship and commitment to pursue Christ 8. Strong Men’s ministry and study groups 9. Biblically Based Classes 10. Bible Teaching 11. Biblical education 12. Bible Study 13. Bible Teaching 14. Committed to knowing the Bible 15. Bible based teaching 16. Dedication to studying the Word of God

STAFF LEADERSHIP (16)

1. The Staff 2. Staff Leadership – The Pastor & Staff 3. Blessed pastors 4. Excellent staff 5. Outstanding staff 6. Blessed with exceptional leadership from our pastors 7. Talented staff 8. Great staff 9. Great support staff 10. Terrific staff 11. We have a good staff committed to the success of our church 12. We have a great new lead pastor 13. Church secretary who keeps things running smoothly 14. Staff 15. Pastor is a gifted speaker, thinker, and visionary 16. Continuity & Longevity of staff

YOUTH MINISTRY (11)

1. Youth Ministry led with enthusiasm 2. Our High school youth director 3. High School Youth Program 4. Youth Program 5. Youth Ministry 6. Great youth program with terrific leaders 7. Youth ministry 8. Excellent youth program 9. Strong youth programs 10. Youth ministries 11. How involved the youth is

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY (10)

1. Children’s Ministry led with enthusiasm 2. Kids ministry

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3. Children are important 4. Children’s ministry 5. Children’s programs have been great 6. Children’s ministry 7. Children’s ministry 8. Children’s ministry 9. Children’s ministry 10. Children’s ministry

STRONG COUNCIL LEADERSHIP (10)

1. Council Leadership 2. A dedicated Council who work together to hear from God in order to serve & guide the congregation in

doing His will. 3. Church leaders listen to God 4. Strong members on Council 5. Teamwork and leadership to keep us all close to Christ 6. A strong leadership team 7. Leadership 8. Leaders committed to the growth of the people 9. Creative ideas are always welcome 10. The leadership – always looking to help, change, and improve

COMMITMENT TO PERSONAL DISCIPLESHIP (9)

1. A commitment to personal discipleship 2. Drawing others into a relationship with Jesus 3. Strong faith in the value of God’s church and what it represents 4. Continue to develop and equip people to serve God in their gifts and calling 5. A church committed to making Jesus known and strengthening others’ relationship and walk with Him. 6. Many Opportunities to grow, learn, and serve 7. Follow and practice the 2 great commandments 8. Having people follow and believe in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit 9. Discipled believers actively serving in varied ministries

MULTI-‐GENERATIONAL (9)

1. Diversity of ages 2. Inter-‐generational 3. Family oriented 4. Members reflect broad age range 5. Inter-‐generational 6. Valuing people of all ages 7. Involving all ages 8. Inter-‐generational 9. All ages

FINANCIAL STABILITY & RESPONSIBILITY (8)

1. Financial stability, great money management 2. Finances 3. Financially stable

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4. Debt free and balanced budget 5. Strong financial resources with strong givers 6. We are a giving church, when serious needs arise 7. Generous 8. Fiscally prudent

WILLING SERVANTS (7)

1. Willing servants 2. Willing volunteers 3. Willing volunteers 4. Service 5. Service 6. Service 7. Believers actively serving

WORSHIP SERVICES (6)

1. Worship 2. Services are a nice balance of songs of praise and a sermon 3. Different kinds of music each week 4. Worship 5. Worship 6. Good music

CHURCH FACILITIES (5)

1. Nice church facilities 2. Facilities 3. Great buildings and facilities thanks to the sacrifice of so many over the years 4. Facilities 5. Location in the community

EVANGELICAL COVENANT DENOMINATION (3)

1. Alignment with Evangelical Covenant – it’s values and support 2. Belonging to the Evangelical Covenant 3. Fairly Smooth transition from Presbyterian to Covenant

PRAYER (2)

1. Prayer 2. Prayer support in every group I work with

SIZE OF THE CHURCH (2)

1. Small Church 2. Smaller church where people still know each other, easier to build relationships here

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GENERAL THOUGHTS

1. Communication 1. Our Rich History 1. No politics from the pulpit or the people

5. What would you say are the biggest issues needing to be addressed at Faith Covenant Church? 98 ANSWERED; 51 SKIPPED VISION & MISSION (18)

1. Fragmented purpose, diluted focus. Leftover culture of top-‐down leadership. 2. A clear and actionable mission and vision statement could be a way to clarify Faith Covenant’s message. 3. Establishment of the church vision, mission and strategy. 4. Being healthy/missional. 5. Don’t change for change sake. Know what you are trying to accomplish. 6. Keep focus on Christ, not on programs. 7. Church family doesn’t know how to deal with change. 8. Achieving a church-‐wide vision. 9. Leadership. 10. Develop a common vision for forward motion. 11. Lovingly approach change and decide which changes are really important. 12. A long range plan for providing pastoral care. 13. Vision is still unclear. 14. Transition with the church. 15. Clear vision. 16. Find and follow God’s plan. Continue to clarify roles. 17. Continue to persevere in not letting the culture change core beliefs. 18. Seek a balance between seeking new members and our current longer term members.

WORSHIP (16)

1. Want more study of books of the Bible, less topical. 2. I want to know the stories, joy and struggles of those in the pew next to me. 3. More of word and scriptures to be shared. 4. Basic structure for Sunday services. Ushering/greeting – what to do if serious situation occurs. 5. Take a strong stand on challenging issues from the pulpit. 6. Would like to see youth directly involved in worship more. 7. We need a strong worship leader. 8. Try to satisfy to the older members in worship style while drawing new people through a more update

worship style. 9. More preaching on specific books of the Bible. 10. Having a welcoming feel in worship. 11. Worship Team lagging. 12. I am not a worship music person, but prefer listening to the message. However the music needs to

improve. 13. Better worship music with specific direction. 14. Music

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15. At healing service, didn’t seem folks expected the miraculous. 16. Opportunities for deeper healing/prayer services.

GREATER SENSE OF COMMUNITY (15)

1. Connecting the people of 1st and 2nd services. Consider more prayer with training. 2. Following up with the needs of members. 3. Reaching others outside our regular attenders. 4. More involvement by all in serving the church and others. 5. A senior group to meet for a meal and speaker once per month at church. 6. Ministering to members and community. 7. Seeking to meet the needs and wants of all ages. 8. Cliques. 9. Community. 10. More involvement from the congregation. 11. Opportunities for families to connect and support one another. 12. More opportunities to connect with others. 13. Need more members to participate. 14. We do not do a very good job of serving young adults. 15. Helping everyone in our own church.

STAFFING (14)

1. Concerns about staff not being fully qualified and/or overworked. 2. Need an associate pastor. 3. With Pastor Bill leaving, concerned about current staff being overloaded. 4. Staffing for future quality care of all ages and for the community. 5. The need for an associate pastor. 6. Concerns over staff performance. 7. We need to replace Pastor Bill’s role with another pastor. 8. Lead pastor needs to identify himself as such, being too cautious. 9. An assistant pastor to share the load. 10. Miss having a devoted music director. 11. Need a replacement for Pastor Donna when she leaves. 12. What to do about discipleship training with Pastor Bill gone. 13. After Pastor Donna leaves, there will be an unfilled area of pastoral care. 14. Greg should move to full time worship leadership.

SUNDAY SCHOOL/EDUCATION/TRAINING (14)

1. Establish a FCC University. 2. Why do all Sunday school and Bible studies stop in the summer? 3. Need to offer good adult Sunday school classes. 4. Fearlessly address cultural issues. 5. Adult Sunday school a little dry. Would like more interaction. 6. More resources for specific needs such as divorce and marriage counseling. 7. Leadership/programs for women’s ministry. 8. Not well attended. 9. Education. 10. More weekly “moms” meetings. 11. Group therapy such as anxiety, bereavement.

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12. More outreach in the community to join in programs. 13. More “meaty” classes. 14. Attendance and qualified teachers.

CHURCH OUTREACH & GROWTH (10)

1. Membership growth. 2. It would be nice to have more ways for new people to be assimilated. 3. Sharing faith with the unsaved. 4. Seek to reach outside the church more. 5. Outreach. 6. Bringing people in and bringing people back. 7. Outreach. 8. Bringing new people to church. 9. Outreach to younger folks to keep growing. 10. We need younger people in church.

YOUTH & CHILDREN (8)

1. Mentoring and bringing in younger people to the church. 2. Teaching kids/youth to defend the faith. 3. Youth outreach community involvement. 4. Youth ministry needs more direction. 5. Youth programs. 6. Keeping youth involved after high school. 7. Something for the college/high school graduates to do so they don’t lose interest in the church. 8. Programs seem to repeating themselves. Need new things.

SECOND SERVICE WORSHIP (8)

1. Don’t take away the traditional service for the older generation. 2. We need to keep the traditional service traditional. 3. Keep the traditional service traditional and the contemporary service contemporary. Share some

elements like drama sometimes. 4. Leaving more traditional worship style congregants in the dust and uncomfortable. 5. Traditional music for traditional church service. 6. Children during second service. 7. The older population in our church needs to have a service which meets their needs. 8. Traditional service has ceased to be a traditional service.

COMMUNICATION (7)

1. I think that smoothing out communication between staff, volunteers both internally and with the community.

2. Not necessarily a big issue, but sometimes we don’t communicate well within the church. 3. Improved communications. 4. Communication. 5. Few people making changes without communication and regard to those affected. 6. Communication between leadership and laity. 7. Communications between staff, council and members.

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DON’T SEE ANY BIG ISSUES (5)

1. I don’t think we have any big issues. 2. I am not sure. 3. Not sure. 4. Can’t think of anything. 5. Don’t see any big issues.

MISSIONS (5)

1. Mission trips for families. 2. Missions. We should be going out. 3. Increasing mission spending increasing outreach. 4. More church supported mission trips. 5. Outreach to the poor

DISCIPLESHIP (5)

1. Developing members who serve rather than simply accept service. 2. Get more people involved in ministry. 3. faith in action 4. Discipleship and teaching needs to be integrated into church practice. 5. Apathy.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE (4)

1. Council needs to be reorganized into smaller leadership teams. 2. Council seems too large. 3. Consider Council members not chairing committees unless within their gift mix. 4. Too many committees.

FACILITIES (4)

1. Out of date buildings need both interior and exterior upgrading. 2. North parking lot needs more light. 3. Continue to improve Sanctuary to include sound. 4. To make listening in the Sanctuary a priority for those hard of hearing.

STEWARDSHIP & FINANCES (4)

1. Budgeting problems. 2. Helping people to realize the blessings in tithing. 3. Transparency in finances. 4. How we spend our money.

GENERAL THOUGHTS

1. A little bit of everything. 1. I am new to the church.

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6. What do you see as the biggest opportunities for ministry in the area around Faith Covenant Church – in our local city or region? 96 ANSWERED; 53 SKIPPED HOMELESS, POOR & COMMUNITY NEEDS (36)

1. Assist the homeless and needy. 2. Helping the homeless and under-‐privileged. 3. Empower and encourage congregation to share resources with those in need. 4. Equip volunteers to provide resource ministry to needy. 5. Homeless in Sumner. 6. Helping families in need. 7. Helping the needy in Sumner. 8. Student homelessness. 9. Homeless people. 10. Homeless. 11. I think we are very attentive to the local needs. 12. Consider assisting with “Freezing Nights.” 13. Serve the poor. 14. DIVE has potential to help focus on outreach. 15. Service to the needy. 16. Like church’s involvement both locally and beyond. 17. Would like more support of homeless in the area. 18. Homeless assistance. 19. Reaching out to homeless. 20. Our work with the homeless and those in poverty. 21. Continue involvement with the Food Bank. 22. Food Bank. 23. Partner with community groups in providing services to those in need. 24. Become involved with the Food Bank. 25. Become involved in the Sumner Family Center. 26. Help with the needs in the community. 27. Expanding outreach beyond DIVE. 28. The Big Give. 29. We should focus on local, then beyond. 30. Preaching to Word in the community through service projects. 31. Show God’s love through action. 32. Pick one or two activities as the focus for the year such as the Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity. 33. Food and Clothing Banks. 34. Be involved in the Big Give. 35. Lotsa Helping Hands. 36. Start close to home, then branch out.

LOCAL SCHOOL INVOLVEMENT (24)

1. Involvement with Daffodil Valley Elementary and other Sumner schools. 2. Local schools with desire to attract younger people. 3. Continue to minister at Daffodil. 4. Love how we are connected to Daffodil. 5. Daffodil ministry as outreach.

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6. Encourage more to be involved at Daffodil. 7. Provide mentoring. 8. Daffodil. 9. Children at Daffodil. 10. Ministry with local children. 11. Student mentoring at Daffodil. 12. Disadvantaged children at Daffodil. 13. School age and low income demographics. 14. Continue outreach Bill started. 15. We help at Daffodil, but can do more. 16. Consider scholarships. 17. Increase impact in and around the schools. 18. Become involved with the schools. 19. Love connection with Daffodil. 20. After school care/tutoring at church. 21. Adopting schools to support. 22. Daffodil Neighbors in Action. 23. Our work with the schools. 24. Community relationship connection to the schools.

LOCAL COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS & CHURCH PROMOTION (20)

1. Get involved with downtown organizations and events. 2. Network with City of Sumner. 3. Continued community activities. 4. Community events. 5. Getting involved in the community. 6. Continue to be involved in family friendly community like in December. 7. Increase involvement in local community. 8. Get into the community. 9. Expand involvement beyond Santa Day parade and the Taco booth. 10. Be involved/present in different activities in the Sumner area. 11. Getting involved in the community. 12. Place Faith Covenant Church’s name on the bus. 13. Have the lead pastor get into the community. 14. Keep name in public at parades and other local going-‐ons. 15. People know where the Catholic Church is located, but not FCC. 16. Letting people know about us while sharing Christ. 17. Be present at community activities such as a bike race with a FCC banner supporting those participating. 18. Consider community prayer relay with other churches. 19. Find ways for people to learn more about us and what we do. 20. Advertising what the church has to offer.

CHURCH GROWTH & EVANGELISM (14)

1. Reach out with personal invitations. 2. Consider outdoor worship in the summer for outreach. 3. Individuals to build relationships with those around them. 4. Church attendance. 5. Share God’s love with young families. 6. Continued outreach to the lost.

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7. Uniting people who are not part of the family. 8. Encourage folks to see their neighborhoods and workplaces as ministry areas. 9. Reaching out to our community. 10. Bring more to faith in order to provide greater impact to the surrounding community. 11. Greater outreach in inviting people to visit. 12. Share God’s love. 13. More outreach ministries. 14. Share Christ in all activities and interactions.

CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES (11)

1. Vacation Bible School is a great outreach tool. 2. Continue children ministries. 3. Organize programs to attract the younger generation. 4. Provide children and youth programs as well as parenting and adult programs. 5. Share how youth are involved within the community. 6. More community involvement for teens. 7. Continue outreach to youth and parents. 8. Bring in more young people. 9. Continue to promote our strong youth program. 10. Vacation Bible School. 11. Vacation Bible School.

RECOVERY & SUPPORT MINISTRIES (10)

1. With those involved with sex trafficking. 2. Support for grandparents raising grandchildren. 3. Provide a safe place for those seeking recovery. 4. Prison ministries. 5. Single families. 6. MOPS. 7. Be more involved in ministering to families. 8. Financial counseling. 9. Healthier lifestyles. 10. Parenting classes possible in partnership with ECAP or local schools.

DISCIPLESHIP & CARE (8)

1. Solid Biblical teaching, authentic caring and truthful relationships. 2. Active service by all church members. 3. Offer a place where Christ is preached, Word honored and interested people welcomed. 4. Becoming a center for personal growth. 5. Need someone to lead women’s and college age ministries. 6. Stephen Ministry. 7. Take care of our own as well as world mission. 8. Mentoring programs for women and men for folks without and outside the church.

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SENIORS MINISTRY (8) (STAFFORD SUITES/CEDAR RIDGE SENIOR CENTERS)

1. Appreciate the ministry to widows. 2. Share God’s love with seniors. 3. Continue these ministries. 4. Continue outreach Bill started. 5. Service to seniors. 6. Love our new program to support and connect with seniors. 7. Continue to promote our senior outreach. 8. Eldercare.

PARTNERING WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS (5)

1. Collaborate with other faith communities. 2. Partner with other churches for events like concerts. 3. Support groups that promote positive life styles while communicating our Biblical foundation. 4. Sumner Family Center. 5. YMCA.

ETHNIC & IMMIGRANT MINISTRY (3)

1. Provide ministry to immigrants in the area. 2. Hispanic families in the area. 3. Minister to refugees.

SMALL GROUPS (3)

1. Expand small group ministry with a discipleship focus. 2. Small groups with invitations to neighbors. 3. Encourage small groups.

VISION & MISSION (1)

1. Need to focus on clear vision for church before really addressing community needs. MISSIONS (1)

1. Missions. GENERAL THOUGHTS

1. I have not lived here long enough to respond. 2. No suggestions. 3. Unsure. 4. No idea, but like to participate.

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7. What would you say are the top priorities that Faith Covenant Church should focus on as we seek to participate in God's mission in the world? 94 ANSWERED; 55 SKIPPED LOCAL & GLOBAL MISSIONS, EVANGELISM (52)

1. We serve well in both the local and world mission field. 2. Mission trips. 3. Being hospitable to our community and others around the world. 4. Fund a particular project for a community, as done with the stoves in Central America. 5. Engage culture. 6. Outreach to the community. 7. Hospitality and small groups to enhance community and mission. 8. Both adults and students go into the mission field. 9. Mission night showing a mission series film from another country. 10. Support ministries that promote the Gospel whether Covenant or not. 11. Get our mission of faith out to the people of Sumner. 12. Get more people to take on service roles in the church and community. 13. Live out the Great Commission. 14. Mission to Congo where Rafiki has a children’s home. 15. Mission trips. 16. Greater outreach to grow and spread God’s Word. 17. Communicate mission opportunities with our church such as the trip to Central America. 18. Partner with other organizations to deal with concerns in our world. 19. Inform the congregation of our support of missions and ways they can participate. 20. Valuing all people in missions. 21. Minister to the wellbeing of the community. 22. Encourage mission team to be more open to new ideas. 23. Supporting Covenant missions around the world and keeping people informed. 24. Local children – VBS, youth missions. 25. Community service. 26. Continue our mission programs. 27. Care for the needy abroad. 28. Faith based partnerships like Covenant and World Vision in Congo. 29. Covenant based organizations. 30. Continue to draw people to worship services, Sunday School, small groups and other events so they can

grow in faith. 31. Advertise programs offered in the church. 32. To help those who need help. 33. Covenant Congo Mission. 34. Jake and Elle in Columbia. 35. Reach out financially to show God’s love. 36. Going outside the church walls. 37. Spreading the Good News. 38. Balance between local, national and international. 39. Start at home first. 40. Follow the Bible, particularly the NT, in our ministry/mission. 41. Helping our local community. 42. Reaching out to nearby community first, then to the world.

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43. Save souls. 44. Continue to support those we currently support. 45. Work within our community first. 46. Focus on one or two large projects rather than a number of smaller projects. 47. Start local then expand. 48. Pick one global mission. Concentrate on local missions. 49. Local missions rather than foreign. 50. Expend the funds available for missions rather than building reserves. 51. Need to have a balance between local and foreign missions. 52. Focus on home missions.

DISCIPLESHIP WITHIN THE CHURCH (30)

1. I want to see people develop their gifts and serve. 2. Growing towards God’s best for each of us. 3. Living out Biblical teachings. 4. Equipping the saints. 5. Encourage and foster close personal walks with Jesus. 6. Equip people to serve our Lord. 7. Seek to learn, adapt and emulate Christ’s teachings. 8. Equip people to go into the world and be the hands and feet of Jesus. 9. Discipleship is critical. 10. Continue to disciple believers encouraging them to use their gifts and passions in Kingdom ministries. 11. Strengthen our relationships especially getting to know our new pastor. 12. Provide greater PR regarding opportunities to serve. 13. Engage all ages in the work of the church. 14. Preach the Word. 15. Helping one another. 16. Demonstrate God’s love as a social change agent. 17. To know Christ and to make Him known. 18. Assist those in need – housing, seniors with home projects, meals. 19. Start a new ministry. 20. Biblical leadership. 21. Practically loving people. 22. Becoming a strong Christ-‐like family in order to share by example. 23. Teaching the value of love and respect. 24. Be grounded in God’s Word. 25. Take care of our own members in need. 26. Biblical knowledge. 27. Preach the Word. Communicate the Gospel. 28. Our community and people here first. 29. Focus of the Bible. Keep that the main focus. 30. Make sure people know what the Bible says.

VISION & MISSION (16)

1. Clear purpose. 2. Vision and strategy of the church. 3. Be open to God’s leading. 4. Unity of all attendees. 5. Healthy leadership.

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6. Pray and seek God’s calling for church. 7. Follow God’s way. 8. Maintain our core values. 9. Knowing who we are and what we are about. 10. Discern what God want us to do. 11. Continue to ask people for their input. 12. Listen and communicate. 13. We need more than one pastor. Bill’s roles need to be replaced with an associate pastor. 14. Pray and listen. God will tell us what he wants done if we ask and listen. 15. Develop a common understanding of mission and vision. 16. Prayer – individual and corporate – to seek God’s will.

PRAYER (7)

1. Learning to be effective prayer warriors. 2. Prayer for God’s guidance in how we can serve and seek the Holy Spirit’s equipping. 3. Develop a team to pray and discern God’s will for our mission ministry. 4. Pray for our nation and God’s protection. 5. Prayer. 6. Prayer, prayer prayer. 7. Prayer and return to holiness.

SUPPORT MINISTRIES (3)

1. Good strong Men’s ministry. 2. A marriage ministry. 3. Continue our strong children’s program.

CHURCH GROWTH & EVANGELISM (3)

1. Be a welcoming home for those searching. 2. Increase attendance. 3. Invite new and previous members to church.

WILLINGNESS TO CHANGE (2)

1. Acceptance of change – the way we’ve always done it does not make it the best way. 2. To be open minded and ready for change as God leads us while retaining core values.

GENERAL THOUGHTS

1. Become more involved within our denomination. 1. Encourage tithing. 1. Islamic terrorists. 1. I think we do a good job presently. 1. No suggestions. 2. I don’t know what to say about this. 3. Unsure.

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PERSONAL INVOLVEMENT:

8. In which of the current types of ministry at Faith Covenant Church do you actively participate? 109 ANSWERED; 40 SKIPPED

• Attend Worship Services – 98.17%

• Attend Adult Sunday School Classes – 37.61%

• Serve on at least one Ministry Team (e.g. Children,

• Youth, Missions, Deacons, Worship, Men, Women, etc.) – 50.46%

• Participate in a mid-‐week group or Bible Study – 55.96%

• Participate in a mid-‐week social or athletic activity – 5.50%

9. Do you feel your life experience, skills, and spiritual gifts are being used at Faith Covenant Church? 106 ANSWERED; 43 SKIPPED

• Absolutely – 22.64%

• Most of the Time – 31.13%

• Some of the Time – 33.96%

• Not at all – 12.26% Comments: Future involvement:

1. I’ve been taking classes on spiritual development and would like to share with the congregation. 2. Would like additional leadership development opportunities to use and grow gifts and skills. 3. I look forward to becoming more involved. 4. I am fairly new and will be more involved in the future.

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5. I have been unable to worship for a while. I hope to become active again. 6. I need to step up and let the church know of my abilities to help. 7. Have only just become an involved servant again. 8. There are so many opportunities for involvement.

Reasons for not being involved:

1. Health issues. 2. There is not a place for many to express their gifts. 3. We are raising grandchildren. 4. Health issues and caring for older parents. 5. I am seeking God’s direction for areas of service. 6. I need to get more involved, but life is crazy right now. 7. I have served in many roles over the years, but now have medical problems. 8. I travel quite a bit. 9. Not yet, but hope to be involved soon. 10. I haven’t gotten involved yet. 11. Caring for my son. 12. I am gone a lot. 13. I am a new attender. 14. I am choosing not to be involved at this point. 15. Only because I hold back. 16. This is my option to be less involved. 17. I am currently ill and unable to participate.

Other:

1. I like open vulnerable sharing. I have not found that opportunity at Faith Covenant Church. 2. We stopped coming in January. Now attend Sunrise Baptist because we like hymns. 3. Life experience, not really. Skills, no. Spiritual gifts, only by observation. 4. I am involved in women’s prison ministry.

10. Is there something you are passionate about that the church is not already doing and that you’d be willing to help make happen? If so, what is it?

38 ANSWERED; 111 SKIPPED SMALL GROUPS / SUPPORT GROUPS (7)

1. Intergenerational, co-‐ed small groups. 2. Men’s ministry, bridging the youth and young adults. 3. Small group for 30 to 40 somethings. 4. Daniel plan. 5. Compassionate group for prayer, Bible study and encouragement. 6. Weekly coffee meeting. Invite new people. 7. Health and wellness ministry.

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OUTREACH & EVANGELISM (7)

1. Actual outreach – going to apartments once a week to play with kids and feed people. 2. Evangelism with the neighborhood. 3. I like to be involved with community work. 4. I would love to grow food which could be part of the ministry. 5. Prison ministry. 6. Refugee resettlement. 7. I am passionate about loving foster families and YoungLife. Neither are an active part of this church’s

ministries. MISSION TRIPS (3)

1. Mission trips. 2. Continue to encourage adult and young adult mission teams. 3. Mission trips.

HOSPITALITY (3)

1. I would like to help with hospitality. 2. Hospitality Team. Necessary support for other teams. 3. I have loved to make the church more welcoming.

TEACHING / TRAINING (4)

1. Parenting classes. 2. Family/parenting ministry or classes on Sunday mornings. 3. I am willing to help with pastoral care and teach others as well. 4. My strength is in serving, teaching and leading.

SYSTEMS (3)

1. Volunteering. 2. Develop an effective staff evaluation system. 3. Making sure the projects in place get done.

SUPPORT & ENCOURAGEMENT (3)

1. Encourage women with cards and notes. 2. Give encouragement and support to others. 3. I work in low income senior homes performing church services and visitations.

OTHER

1. Outdoor activities like camping and family camps/outings.

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11. What is your preferred way to receive communication about church events, schedules, and updates?

111 ANSWERED; 38 SKIPPED

• Email (such as Lifeline) – 92.79%

• Bulletin (on Sunday mornings) – 67.57%

• Mail (in my mailbox) – 11.71%

• Website (that I can see anytime I have questions) – 41.44%

• Facebook (or other social media) – 13.51%

• None of the above – 0.00%

Comments: CHURCH BULLETIN

1. Would like the bulletin to include order of worship and announcements of upcoming events. 2. I really miss the bulletins. Would like the Scripture for the next Sunday as well. 3. I would like to see more information about small group studies in the bulletin. 4. The bulletin is important and should contain the order of worship. 5. Thank you for adding the scripture in the bulletin. 6. The old bulletin seems easier to produce and less expensive. 7. Great work on creating an excellent bulletin.

EMAIL

1. Email, but no more than once per week and only two screens tall. 2. I do like to get the email prayer list. 3. I like the email prayer lists. 4. Email is most effective for me. 5. I can’t lose electronic communications.

WEBSITE

1. Could better utilize the website. 2. Keeping the website updated. 3. Special events and changes in service times are either not on the website or difficult to find.

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LIFELINE NEWSLETTER

1. It would be good to see updates from Council and teams to see more of what is being accomplished. 2. I am not sure how to sign up for Lifeline. 3. Some people still need a hardcopy of the Lifeline.

MAIL

1. Old school mail is really nice for cards and thank you’s. 2. I have email, but prefer to receive things via snail mail if possible. 3. For many elderly, the computer is not a friendly thing to use. 4. Use technology, but like to have mail to look at and underline.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Announcements after church in addition to email and Sunday bulletins. 2. Announcements on Sunday morning are also helpful.

OTHER IDEAS & SUGGESTIONS

• Next door Downtown Sumner a location connection for our community.

• Thanks for letting a senior and “novice” at Faith Covenant Church speak freely.

• Updates and changes to classes need to be better communicated. Also, better planning around scheduling

events and Sunday school would be helpful to avoid cancelations.

• I would like to get something that shares what is happening in Sunday school classes and other activities.

Also would provide an opportunity to pray for the events.

• Texting, especially for quick response items.

• Posters, flyers and bulletin boards around church are helpful.

• More transparency in planning center to see all services and participants.

12. Please offer any additional thoughts or comments you feel would be helpful in our conversation: 42 ANSWERED; 107 SKIPPED THANK YOU

1. Thank you for your leadership. 2. Each staff member is doing an admirable job. Thank you. 3. The church is going fantastic. God is great. 4. Thank you for asking. 5. Thank you for this opportunity to our comments and thoughts. 6. Keep up the good work God has lead us to do.

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7. Keep up the good work. Everyone works very hard and it shows. 8. Thank you for giving me and the whole congregation a chance to shares views on various issues. 9. Thank you for the provision of all the staff. 10. Just to say how much I appreciate FCC. 11. I am excited with Pastor Kurt’s focus on what really matters – our relationship with Christ. 12. I am excited to be part of the growth and being involved in future plans. 13. I am really pleased with what I have seen as the direction the church is going. 14. Just appreciative of our church and the commitment of leadership and staff. 15. I appreciate what the leadership in the congregation have been doing and carefully considering moving

forward in Christ. 16. Thank you for the opportunity to share these thoughts.

WORSHIP

1. I love our worship services. 2. Would like to see and hear about what our youth are doing in ministry. 3. Would like the old hymns sung more. 4. Don’t like loud guitar in second service. 5. No loud guitars in second service. 6. I am moved by our sermons and feel called to action. 7. The worship team is greatly appreciated.

VISION & MISSION

1. When visioning consider how the initiatives will be supported and evaluated. 2. As we seek His will together we will be unified. 3. Continue in prayer and teaching the Word as we seek specific direction. 4. Don’t be afraid to try innovative things.

STAFFING

1. We need an assistant pastor. Recommend Daniel Newell. 2. With Bill’s retirement, Pastor Kurt could use assistance. Recommend Daniel Newell.

PRAYER

1. Monthly prayer meeting focusing on community and beyond. 2. I pray that Kurt will be encouraged at FCC and empowered with God’s blessing in leading others.

OTHER COMMENTS

• There is a lack of respect and understanding of seniors noted in attitudes and music.

• Reader board has become boring.

• Spreading the Good News.

• Don’t allow political issues to dominate the conversation.

• What are we doing for the younger generation?

• Need a more concrete plan for helping new people feel connected to the church.

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• How does the church connect with folks who have been missing from church for a number of weeks?

• Greet folks you don’t recognize at church.

• Survey is a good start.

• There will be a mix of comments in this survey – some positive and some negative. May God grant you

wisdom and grace as you discern the future.

• Would like to see more substantive content in our middle school Sunday school.

• Does everyone who attends have an email address. Are you getting responses from those who don’t?

• Discern the best way to communicate seeking assistance with projects and ministries.

• Persevere in faithfulness.

Documents

All!Church!Survey!-!2015 …storage.cloversites.com/sumnerpresbyterianchurch... · 2015. 5. 28. · 8. All!Church!Survey!-!2015 6. FaithinJesusChristasLord&Savior! 7. We!listen!to!God!and!try!to!follow!His!leading!(e.g.!Leaving!our!denomination!was!a!long