King Solomon said, “There is nothing new under the sun” and coaching definitely falls into this category. Coaching is a simple process that leans upon biblical principles to reap profound results. It is a conversation that allows an individual a place to stop, listen and  consider what the next movement might be toward a positive difference in their life. A coach guards the time and asks questions to facilitate this forward movement.

Coaching is about transformation and transformation is at the heart of the Christian experience. Most transformation begins with a simple but well-crafted question that rings true, deep within the heart, and that brings about new action and lasting change.

CHaT Merges with the COM Strategy Team

The Congregational Health and Transformation (CHaT) task force has merged with the Committee on Ministry's (COM) Strategy Committee.

This merger was for two reasons:

1 - Though their approaches were different, CHaT and the COM Strategy had the same basic mission: To make the congregations of Albany Presbytery stronger and healtheir. Often CHaT and the Strategy team were working with the same congregation but didn't know it. By combining forces, the groups guarantee better coordination and communication of services. All the members of CHaT have brought all their skills and knowledgge to the COM Strategy Team, so all the services - such as Natural Church Development, Digital Media, Mission Studies - are still available.

2 - It always seemed to CHaT that if Albany Presbytery was truly serious about congregational transformation, then the task should be front and center and not lie in a task force with no authority. By merging with the COM Strategy Team, the task of congregational transformation moves closer to the heart of the presbytery functioning. We hope this move opens church doors to our ministry.

Please call Chris Garrison at 793-8541 or Tim Coombs at 273-4991 to learn more.

Members of COM and Contract Staff Tim Coombs have received training in Health Congregations. Health Congregations is a family systems approach to understanding the dynamics of our churches. With this training, a Health Congregations Coach can help your congregation:

• Gain a renewed sense of purpose and mission
• Cultivate strong leadership capacities to challenge the congregation
• Learn how to develop healthy patterns of living together in community
• Learn to focus on strengths, resources, and options for the future
• Boost confidence in responding to challenges and opportunities
• Learn how to lead calmly and with thoughtfulness
• Reflect theologically about relationships
• Move the congregation toward healthy functioning

If you are interested in the HCP leadership process, contact Tim Coombs.

COM Strategy Team Trained by the Auburn Coaching Insitute

The members of the New COM Strategy Team have received training by the Auburn Coaching Insitute for Sustaining Pastoral Excellence. The training was conducted by Dr. Laurie Ferguson who is a nationally recognized coach and trainer. The Strategy Team is now prepared to coach your congregation as it seeks to become healthier and stronger.