Update on our Strategic Planning Process

On Wednesday March 22nd, 41 members of the congregation and community met for our first Strategic Planning Retreat. Charly Bauer and Elizabeth Pafford from Measurement Resources joined us to share the results of the survey and interview process that they conducted. This allowed us to more fully understand the nature of where we are currently as a congregation.

Overall the results were very positive. The results were formulated into a SWOT analysis. SWOT stands for strengths and weaknesses which are internally focused, and opportunities and threats which are external and beyond our control.

The quality of the worship services was right around 90%. The quality of pastors and staff was at 95%. Worship, small groups, and service opportunities were consistently noted as strengths.

Reaching more people within a younger demographic and a need for increased communication were regularly noted as areas where improvement is needed.

Over half of those who responded to the question noted that their top social concern is equality for all regardless of race, sex, or gender. Quite a few were not sure of what the actual needs of the neighborhood were.

The division within the UMC, the lingering impact of Covid, and the aging of the congregation were noted as threats.

Those in attendance were invited to share what they appreciate about HPCUMC, to reflect on the report, and to share what excites them most about moving forward.

Our next Strategic Planning retreat took place on April 16th. Eric Weinheimer, a consultant from Bank of America joined us to help us consider what is next for HPCUMC. He took us through a process of considering our values, our mission, and our North Star goal. We had a lot of good discussion and sharing of hopes for our church. We then selected a Steering Committee of 12 people who represented various groups and ages from the congregation. This group has met with Eric several times to refine the work we did in the retreat and to begin to set our Strategic Initiatives.

The Steering Committee will present their work to the Strategic Planning team at our next retreat on June 6. After that feedback is taken into consideration and added to the plan, it will be presented to the whole of the congregation for feedback. We anticipate that this will take place in mid-late summer. We will let you know as soon as the date is set.

If you have other questions, please check with Pastor Todd, Pastor Suzanne, or a member of the Servant Leadership Board.