Congregational boards have the important work of oversight and discernment about the mission of the local community of faith.  How equipped are you for this discernment role?   

Most congregations rely on rational decision making to guide their leadership choices. Liminal seasons invite us to shift out of rational decision-making mode and into a more discerning mindset. Discernment is an attentiveness to God that, over time, develops into a shared sense of God’s intention for us and our community now. This year long program will equip you and your board for deepened group discernment practices.

PARTICIPANTS IN THIS PROGRAM WILL:  

• Enter a three-way conversation engaging God, the soul of the leader, and the soul of the institution.  

• Challenge the default position of most congregations to resort immediately to group decision making.  

• Deepen their skills as group discernment facilitators.  

• Learn how to structure a group discernment process and where to locate discernment activity in the life of a congregation.  

• Develop a toolbox of practices for opening to God and listening to one another.  

With Susan Beaumont

Susan has worked with hundreds of congregations and denominational bodies across the United States and in Canada.  She is known for her ground-breaking work in the leadership dynamics of large congregations. 

Before establishing her own practice, Susan worked for nine years as a Senior Consultant with the Alban Institute. Susan has also served on the faculty of two business schools, teaching graduate level courses in leadership, management and organizational behavior.   Susan brings her experience as a trained Spiritual Director to this organizational level learning and work.

And Allison Rennie

Allison is a gifted educator, animateur, and team mate, deeply passionate about nurturing leadership and spirituality of people all ages. Allison has been engaged in raising and shaping leaders for over 30 years. With experience at all levels of the United Church, Allison is currently Director of LeaderShift for the Pacific Mountain and Chinook Winds Regional Councils.