in All and filtered by Vision & Planning
By Ken Howard
Once there was a time when church buildings were considered indispensable fixtures for their surrounding community. Now, many of our buildings are empty most days of the week and people on the street pass by without a second glance. Ken Howard, in Leveraging your congregation’s physical assets, inspires us to reclaim the physical assets of our faith communities as essential hubs for a vibrant, local life.
By Haley Bankey
In this edition of Vestry Papers, you will find five stories from around the church about reimagining assets, be they physical structures or human resources, the land we steward or the culture in which we belong. As you read, imagine how you might walk alongside the Holy Spirit to embrace bold reimagination in your own community.
By Bonnie Perry and Anthony Estes
In this conversation, Bishop Bonnie Perry from the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan and the Rev. Anthony Estes, of the Detroit Church Partnership, encourage us instead to explore the powerful what-ifs of where we find ourselves here and now.
By Charis Bhagianathan
As individuals and communities, the best way we can tackle disasters is by being prepared. In this issue, hear from communities and individuals who share stories of preparation, care and hope.
By Jen Adams
CPR training is a life-skill and a gift that any of us could be called to offer at any time. In Staying Alive, Jen Adams shares how the members and staff of Grace Episcopal Church in Holland, Michigan prioritized this life-saving learning to be there for their community and each other.
By Frances “Boo” Kay
Schools in our communities require a specific and focused disaster preparedness and recovery plan to ensure the safety of all involved. In Disaster Preparedness Takes Planning, Frances “Boo” Kay shares the preparations that can be made before an event, and ways to plan for recovery as well.
By Sandra Montes
Tristemente, los desastres suceden a nuestro alrededor todo el tiempo. A veces tenemos que enfrentarlos, a veces nuestros amigos, amigas y seres queridos los enfrentan y otras veces leemos sobre los desastres que pasan en otras partes.
By Sandra Montes
What is our first response when something terrible happens? In When Disaster Strikes, Sandra Montes presents her response, grounded in her faith, and shares those of many others, also asking – what helps you in the face of disaster?
By Jay Sidebotham
Our gift to you this new year, is a wonderful illustration from Jay Sidebotham – The Church in 2050 – for you to ponder, laugh and hope.
By Ranjit K. Mathews
What is your most radical dream for our church? In Embodying Hope, Ranjit Mathews describes his vision for the church for the future – one that looks, feels and truly is a sacred, inclusive, welcoming home for all.
