report for richmond hill united church
TRANSCRIPT
Report for Richmond Hill United Church
ISSUED : May 2014
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 0
IMNA
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4
Report Outline
• Introduction • Purpose of IMNA • Methodology • Profile of Survey Respondents
• Executive Summary • Detailed Results
• Identity - What defines your church today? • Mission - What is your faith community’s vision for mission and ministry? • Needs Analysis - What do you need to fulfil your mission and ministry?
• Next Steps for Faith Communities • To come
1
Introduction
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 2
IMNA Purpose of IMNA
• IMNA is an online research tool to help you develop effective and sustainable ministry
• It will help you assess your current gifts and identity, and discover a clear and vital vision for future mission and ministry
• It can be used to complete a JNAC and dovetails with the Effective Leadership criteria used in some Conferences
• IMNA is intended to give everyone in your faith community a say about the identity, mission and needs of your church
• It will help you plan for this future with hope and joy
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 3
IMNA Methodology
• Online survey, questionnaire available under separate cover
• Conducted among the people of your congregation - Richmond Hill United Church
• Sample of 113 respondents
• Results are always expressed in percentages (unless otherwise
noted) • Results pertain to your church, except in those instances
where, for comparison purposes, results are clearly marked as referring to the UCC’s national Identity Survey (conducted among 7448 United Church people in 2011)
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 4
IMNA 2014 Profile of Survey Respondents
IMNA D2
Identity 2011 (National) IMNA - Your Church
63
35
0
2
Female
Male
Transgender
Other
Gender *
Identity Q52
* Slight change in question wording from 2011 Identity Survey to current IMNA survey
69
30
0.1
Female
Male
Transgender
Gender
11
89
Yes No
Parent of child(ren) age 12 and under
15
84
Yes No
Parent of child(ren) age 13 -19
IMNA D5a, b
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 5
IMNA Profile of Survey Respondents, Continued
IMNA D3, D4
Identity 2011 (National) IMNA - Your Church
3 7 4
14
22 28
20
13-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60-69 70+
Age
Median Age: 54
Identity Q1, 56
* Slight change in question wording from 2011 Identity Survey to current IMNA survey
2 2 4 9
19
27
36
11-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60-69 70+
Age
Median Age: 65
Average (mean) time in congregation:
Your church: 20 years Identity 2011: 23 years
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 6
Executive Summary
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 7
Executive Summary
•Identity •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith
•Mission •Priorities for an Ideal Church
•Needs Analysis •Overall Needs in Your Church Today •Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 8
IMNA - IDENTITY
Executive Summary: Identity
IMNA Q5
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 9
Top Five - The Meaning of Church: “Strongly Agree” That Church Inspires and Motivates You
59
58
52
47
44
Attending worship services
An understanding that faith comes in many forms
Supporting financially the work of your local church
Listening to music or making music
Living according to the teachings of Jesus
Summary of Top Five Fundamentals of Faith: “Very Important“ to Your Faith...
IMNA Q16
72
70
65
43
40
Your church provides opportunities to expand and deepen your spirituality
Your church makes you feel that you are part of a community
Your church makes you want to be loving and compassionate
Your church makes you want to share your gifts with others
Your church makes you want to put energy into working for peace and justice in the world
IMNA - MISSION Executive Summary: Mission
IMNA Q22
IMNA Your Church
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important) MEAN TOP BOX “10”
That is inviting and welcoming to everyone 9.4 76
That accompanies people through the most difficult times of their life 9.2 66
That reaches out to those in the local community who need help 8.9 50
In which the people of the congregation demonstrate their faith by showing respect for diversity in all its forms
8.8 58
That encourages questioning and debate 8.7 47
That offers the possibility of personal transformation, for example, turning one’s life around or changing the way one looks at the world
8.1 28
Where God’s presence is felt 8.0 41
ATTRIBUTE
A Welcoming Church
A Church That Accompanies People on Their Life Journey
A Church That Turns Faith Into Action
A Diverse and Intercultural Church
A Church That is Engaging and Dynamic
A Church that is Focused on Discipleship
A Church that Helps to Bring People Closer to
God
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 10
Top Priorities for an Ideal Church by Attribute
IMNA - NEEDS Executive Summary: Needs Analysis
IMNA Q23
81
70
64
61
60
Increase the number of children/youth in your congregation
Offer opportunities for children and youth to grow in their faith
Increase givings to the local operations of your church
Develop in the people of the congregation a mindset of real “hospitality”, which will help to make your church a truly welcoming …
Increase the number of adults in your congregation
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 11
Summary of Top Five Needs in Your Church Today : “High Priority”
86
82
81
77
74
An ability to create meaningful worship
An interest in welcoming new people
A gift for providing compassionate pastoral care
A gift for preaching
A gift for building community both inside and outside your church
IMNA Q24
Summary of Top Five Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel : “Strongly Agree”
Detailed Results
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 12
Identity
What Defines Your Church Today?
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 13
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community
•Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith •Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 14
IMNA - IDENTITY
Clarity of Purpose: How Would You Describe Your Church Today?
IMNA Q3
50
43
6
Your church has a mission You are in the process of determining/re-visiting your mission
Having a mission is not a priority for your church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 15
IMNA - IDENTITY
Clarity of Purpose: Understanding and Articulating Your Mission
IMNA Q4a, b
42
51
5 2
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
58
40
0 2
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4
Do you agree/disagree that you could describe your church’s mission? (Among those who believe their church has a mission)
Do you agree/disagree that lay leaders understand your church’s mission? (Among those who believe their church has a mission)
16
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose
•Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith •Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 17
IMNA - IDENTITY
IMNA Q1a, b, 2 Identity Q12a, b
95
76
69
94
73
Not asked
To your local Church
To The United Church of Canada denomination
Belong to group(s) outside of Church
IMNA - Your Church
Identity 2011
Feel Sense of Belonging: To Local Church, The Denomination... And Other Groups Outside Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 18
* Slight change in question wording from 2011 Identity Survey to current IMNA survey
IMNA - IDENTITY
IMNA Q7, 8 Identity Q14, 16
41
50
44
65
Are very involved in the activities of your congregation
Feel very connected to your church and congregation
IMNA - Your Church
Identity 2011
Sense of Belonging: Involvement and Connection
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 19
* Slight change in question wording from 2011 Identity Survey to current IMNA survey
IMNA - IDENTITY Sense of Belonging: Likelihood of Worshipping With Your Current Congregation Over the Next Few Years
IMNA Q17
78
12 4
0 4 2
Very likely Somewhat likely Not very likely Not at all likely Expect to move away
Do not worship regularly
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 20
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging
•The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith •Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 21
IMNA - IDENTITY
The Meaning of Church: You Know Why You, Personally, Go to Church
IMNA Q5b
71
24
4 2
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 22
IMNA - IDENTITY
The Meaning of Church: Does it Inspire and Motivate?
IMNA Q5c, d, j, k, l, m
72
70
65
43
40
27
22
22
31
48
46
57
Your church provides opportunities to expand and deepen your spirituality
Your church makes you feel that you are part of a community
Your church makes you want to be loving and compassionate
Your church makes you want to share your gifts with others
Your church makes you want to put energy into working for peace and justice in the world
Your church makes you want to respond to the call to “heal the world”
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 23
IMNA - IDENTITY The Meaning of Church: How Significant a Role Does Church Play With Respect to ...?
59
58
58
54
45
44
42
37
36
27
25
20
16
15
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
4
0
28
20
2
28
3
Your values
Your personal faith
Your sense of belonging
Your sense of community
Your sense of who you are
Your living of life
Your views on social issues
Your family life
How you relate to others
Your raising of your children
Your marriage/relationship
Your choice of friends
Your work
Your political views
Very significant
Not applicable
IMNA Q15
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 24
IMNA - IDENTITY The Meaning of Church: How Significant a Role Does Church Play With Respect to ....?
59
58
58
54
45
44
42
37
36
27
25
20
16
15
63
64
51
32
40
32
33
20
17
13
Your values
Your personal faith
Your sense of belonging*
Your sense of community*
Your sense of who you are*
Your living of life
Your views on social issues
Your family life*
How you relate to others
Your raising of your children
Your marriage/relationship
Your choice of friends
Your work
Your political views
“Very significant”
IMNA - Your Church
Identity 2011
IMNA Q15 Identity Q20
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4
*Not asked on Identity Survey
25
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church
•Fundamentals of Faith •Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 26
Summary of Fundamentals of Faith: “Very Important“ to Your Faith...
59
58
52
47
44
38
37
36
35
31
27
27
25
23
22
Attending worship services
An understanding that faith comes in many forms
Supporting financially the work of your local church
Listening to music or making music
Living according to the teachings of Jesus
Spending time in natural surroundings
Volunteering time to church causes
Encountering or experiencing the divine in your own life
Addressing needs of community beyond church walls
Participating in small faith and spirituality groups
Supporting financially the work of M&S
Working to promote social justice
Working to protect the environment
Engaging in personal spiritual practice
Knowing a lot about the Bible
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q16
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 27
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How important is. .. . Attending Worship*?
59
32
8
1
66
29
4 1
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
IMNA- Your Church Identity 2011
IMNA Q16a Identity Q21a
* Slight change in question wording from 2011 Identity Survey to current IMNA survey
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 28
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How Important is .... Discipleship?
44 47
7
2
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Living according to the teachings of Jesus
IMNA Q16h
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 29
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How Important is ... Stewardship?
37
52
27
52
39 43
11 6
27
0 3 4
Volunteering time to church causes Supporting financially work of local church Supporting financially the work of M&S*
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
IMNA Q16b, c, d
* Slight change in question wording from 2011 Identity Survey to current IMNA survey
Identity 2011 (National)
Identity Q21b, c, d
IMNA - Your Church
45
62
29
43 33
51
9 4
17
2 1 3
Volunteering time to church causes Supporting financially work of local church Supporting financially the work of wider church*
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 30
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How Important is ... Outreach?
IMNA Q16 e, k, n
35
56
8 1
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Addressing needs of community beyond church walls
27
53
20 1
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Working to promote social justice
25
50
22 3
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Working to protect the environment
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 31
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How Important is ... Personal Experience ?
IMNA Q16i, l, m
36 31 24
9
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Encountering or experiencing the divine in your own life
38 39
22
1
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Spending time in natural surroundings
47 36
14 3
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Listening to, or making, music
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 32
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How Important is ... Knowledge and Understanding?
IMNA Q16g, j
22
41 28
9
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
Knowing a lot about the Bible
58
37
4 1
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
An understanding that faith comes in many forms, some non-traditional
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 33
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How Important is .... Participation in Small Groups That Explore Faith and Spirituality?
IMNA Q16o
31
27
31
12
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 34
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: How Important is .... Engaging In Personal Spiritual Practice?
IMNA Q16f
23
31
38
8
Very important Somewhat important Not very important Not at all important
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 35
IMNA - IDENTITY
Fundamentals of Faith: Evangelism
Yes, 74%
No, 26%
IMNA – Your Church
Yes, 67%
No, 33%
Identity 2011
Identity Q18t IMNA Q13a
Have you talked about your faith with someone who does not go to church?
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 36
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith
•Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 37
IMNA - IDENTITY Values and Attitudes: The Importance of Belonging, Behaving and Believing
44 44
10 2
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
Your church emphasizes belonging: Feeling bound to each other by a sense of kinship
38 51
9 2
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
Your church emphasizes behaving: Acting in line with Jesus’ teachings
27 35
25 14
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
Your church emphasizes believing: Understanding/accepting beliefs about God and Jesus
IMNA Q9a,b,c T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 38
IMNA - IDENTITY Values and Attitudes: The Importance of Diversity
89
11
0 1
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
Your faith community values diversity in all its forms, e.g., race, socio-economic identity, sexual orientation, gender identity
IMNA Q5p
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 39
IMNA - IDENTITY Values and Attitudes: The Importance of Questioning and Debate
52
41
6
1
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
A culture of questioning and debate appears to be present in your church
IMNA Q5o
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 40
IMNA - IDENTITY Values and Attitudes: The Importance of Experimentation and Change
27
61
10
3
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
Experimentation and change are considered to be good things in your church
IMNA Q5n
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 41
Values and Attitudes: The Importance of Connecting with the Denomination
IMNA Q20b
38
48
6 4
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
Connection to the denomination of The United Church of Canada is important to the work of your faith community
IMNA - IDENTITY
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 42
IMNA - IDENTITY Values and Attitudes: Views on Spirituality and Faith
27 38
18 15
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
55
34
10 2
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
30
47
14 4
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disgree
Although many people think of spirituality as contemplative and prayerful, it can also be very loud and activist
IMNA Q20g, h, i
Spirituality is about a search for meaning that may not
have anything at all to do with God
Faith is not about believing a set of statements; it is really a matter of the heart
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 43
Values and Attitudes: Views on Ecumenism
IMNA Q20a
74
21
2 3
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
There are many paths to God - Christianity is one path among many
IMNA - IDENTITY
60
28
4 5
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
There are many paths to God - Christianity is one path among many
Identity Q34a
Identity 2011 (National)
IMNA - Your Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 44
IMNA - IDENTITY Values and Attitudes: Views on the Traditions of Christianity
24
44
21
6
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
The language and symbols of Christianity may be barriers that prevent many from hearing the message of the Gospel
IMNA Q20k
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 45
Values and Attitudes: Views On Atheists Belonging to the Church
IMNA Q20c
IMNA - IDENTITY
36 33
23
7
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
There is nothing wrong with atheists belonging and contributing to United church communities
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 46
IMNA Q20f
IMNA - IDENTITY Values and Attitudes: Views on the Future of Christianity
Identity 2011 (National)
Identity Q34b
IMNA - Your Church
6
29 27 32
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
It is time for organized and institutional versions of Christianity to fade away and something new to emerge
5
20 23
43
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
It is time for organized and institutional versions of Christianity to fade away and something new to emerge
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 47
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith •Discipleship/Stewardship/Service •Values and Attitudes
•Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 48
IMNA - IDENTITY Beliefs: The Divinity of Jesus
58
27
5
9
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
It doesn’t really matter whether Jesus was or was not divine; what matters is the basic content of his message
IMNA Q20d
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 49
IMNA - IDENTITY Beliefs: The Meaning of the Resurrection
45
40
4 4
Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree
The resurrection of Christ is primarily about the reality of God’s love and how lives can be transformed for the better through love
IMNA Q20e
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 50
Beliefs: The Importance of Jesus Being Named in Worship
IMNA Q19
IMNA - IDENTITY
MEAN TOP BOX “10”
6.9 22%
MEAN TOP BOX “10”
8.5 53%
Identity Q31
Identity 2011 (National) IMNA - Your Church
6
2 5
9 8 8 6
21
12
22
Not at all important Very important
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
IMNA - Your Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 51
Beliefs: The importance of the Trinity As A Way For the Denomination to Express its Understanding of God
IMNA - IDENTITY
IMNA Q18
MEAN TOP BOX “10”
7.9 41%
18
10
7 9
5 4
8
15
6
18
Not at all important Very important
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
IMNA - Your Church
Identity Q30
Identity 2011 (National) IMNA - Your Church
MEAN TOP BOX “10”
5.6 18%
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 52
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith •Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 53
IMNA - IDENTITY
Stewardship Practices: Making Financial Gifts
IMNA Q14 a, b, c
88
69 68
4
13 18
4
12
5
Operations of your local church Mission and Service (M&S) Your church’s outreach/mission projects
Yes Not this year, but in the past No, never
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 54
IMNA - IDENTITY
Stewardship Practices: Sharing Time and Talent
In the past two years, have you… Yes
Volunteered your time through committee membership, doing odd jobs, helping at a fellowship event, leading youth group
84
Contributed to your congregation’s worship through choir, reading scripture, decorating the sanctuary
71
Attended your church’s annual meeting 67
Volunteered your time to help with your church’s outreach activities in the community
51
Participated in, or led, small groups focused on worship or prayer, faith formation, peer support, etc.
36
Joined an activist group (unrelated to your church) that works to bring justice into the world, for example, environmental protection, improved literacy among incarcerated people, a decline in child poverty rates, etc.
20
Participated in some kind of non-traditional form of church 7
IMNA Q13c,d,e,f,g,h,i
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 55
IMNA - IDENTITY
Stewardship Practices: Sharing Time and Talent, Cont’d
IMNA – Your Church: Yes
Written to an elected government official such as your Member of Parliament (MP) about a church-sponsored issue
20
IMNA Q13b
Identity 2011 (National): Yes
Written to an elected government official such as your Member of Parliament (MP) about a church-sponsored issue
12
Identity Q18v
In the past two years, have you…
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 56
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith •Discipleship/Stewardship/Service •Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices
•Leadership in Your Church •Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 57
IMNA - IDENTITY
Leadership: Perceptions of The Effectiveness of Your Leaders
IMNA Q4b*, Q5e, g, h, i
45
55
58
66
74
46
40
40
28
20
Your church is good at helping people make good use of their gifts to contribute to the work of the church
Your Minister(s) motivate your congregation to set and achieve goals
Lay leaders understand your church's mission*
Both the minister(s) and lay leaders demonstrate a sense of responsibility for nurturing spiritual growth
Lay leaders in your congregation express their faith in a variety of different ways
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4
*Among those who believe their church has a mission
58
IMNA - IDENTITY Leadership: Perceptions of How Your Church Treats Lay Leaders
IMNA Q5f, 10a, b, c, d
60
58
27
21
12
36
32
53
58
55
Lay leaders in your church are well supported by your minister(s)
Lay leaders in your congregation feel empowered to make decisions
Your church is good at recruiting people to serve as lay leaders
Your church is good at equipping lay leaders with training and resources to carry out their roles
Your church is good at making sure that lay leaders don’t “burn out”
Strongly agree Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 59
IMNA - IDENTITY Leadership: Do Leaders Grasp their Roles?
19 32
11
39
Yes, formal role Yes, informal role Both formal and informal No
Do you consider yourself a leader in your congregation?
IMNA Q11, Q12
88
12
Yes No
Do you have a good grasp on your role / how to carry It out? (Among those who consider themselves leaders)
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 60
IDENTITY
•Characteristics of Your Faith Community •Clarity of Purpose •Sense of Belonging •The Meaning of Church •Fundamentals of Faith •Discipleship/Stewardship/Service •Values and Attitudes •Beliefs
•Stewardship Practices •Leadership in Your Church
•Characteristics of Worship
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 61
IMNA - IDENTITY
Worship: Does it Usually Inspire and Stimulate?
IMNA Q6a, b, n, o, t
66
58
56
46
37
27
36
35
39
49
Worship includes thought-provoking preaching
Worship is generally inspiring
Worship is intellectually stimulating
Stretches you to think of faith in non-traditional ways
Continually challenges your world view or perspective on life
Strongly agree Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 62
IMNA - IDENTITY
Worship: Does it Typically Promote Mission and Ministry?
IMNA Q6j, k, l, m
72
58
52
30
26
37
41
54
Worship expresses compassion for others
Worship offers hope
Worship builds community
Worship motivates people to want to heal the world
Strongly agree Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 63
IMNA - IDENTITY
Worship: Is it Reflective and Prayerful?
IMNA Q6d,e,c, p
57
42
39
29
33
45
47
49
Your services include prayers that are meaningful
Your services allow time for peaceful reflection
Your services help people feel close to God
Encourages you to get into a meditative state of mind
Strongly agree Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 64
IMNA - IDENTITY
Worship: Is it Engaging and Relevant?
IMNA Q6q, r, s, u, v
72
45
42
30
26
25
47
45
45
39
Contains references to current events happening in the world
Engages your heart
Worshippers feel like participants in worship, not observers
Includes non-traditional components
Includes unexpected elements
Strongly agree Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 65
IMNA - IDENTITY
Worship: How Do You Describe the Music in Your Church?
IMNA Q6f, g, h, i,
69
59
50
40
23
28
32
42
Your music creates a sense of God’s presence
Your music is accessible to all, including children
Your worship includes music that engages youth
Your worship includes music that is up-to-date
Strongly agree Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 66
Mission
What Is Your Faith
Community’s Vision for Mission and Ministry?
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 67
MISSION • Attributes of an Ideal Church
• A Welcoming Church
•A Church That Accompanies People on Their Life Journey •A Church that turns Faith into Action •A Church That is Engaging and Dynamic •A Church that is Focused on Discipleship •A Church that Helps to Bring People Closer to God •A Diverse and Intercultural Church
• Summary of Priorities for an Ideal Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 68
IMNA - MISSION Attributes of an Ideal Church: One to Which You Would Like to Belong
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important)
IMNA Your Church
Identity 2011
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
A Welcoming
Church
That is inviting and welcoming to all 9.4 76 9.3 71 That values the presence and contribution of people of all ages, from children and youth to seniors
9.2 68 9.2 65
That supports same sex couples in marriage 8.1 43 NA NA
Where worship feels comfortable and familiar 8 32 8.2 37
That performs same sex marriages 7.8 43 6.6 28
That uses inclusive language, for example, changing the words of old hymns to include both men and women, not just men
7.2 31 6.3 21
IMNA Q22h,v,z,aa,bb,jj Identity Q22h,v,z,bb,jj
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 69
IMNA - MISSION Attributes of an Ideal Church: One to Which You Would Like to Belong
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important)
IMNA Your Church
Identity 2011
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
A Church That Accompanies People on Their Life journey
That accompanies people through the most difficult times of life
9.2 66 9.1 60
That approaches life’s deepest issues with a respect for personal freedom and choice
8.8 46 8.7 47
That places an emphasis on helping people with the day-to-day issues in their lives
8.5 37 8.5 39
That helps people grow spiritually 8.5 38 8.9 55
That offers you a place to build deep personal relationships
8.1 32 7.8 29
IMNA Q22d, e, m, s, x Identity Q22d, e, m, s, x
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 70
IMNA - MISSION Attributes of an Ideal Church: One to Which You Would Like to Belong
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important)
IMNA Your Church
Identity 2011
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
A Church That Turns Faith Into Action
That reaches out to those in the local community who need help
8.9 50 8.9 50
In which members demonstrate their faith by showing respect for all people regardless of their sexual orientation
8.9 65 8.8 57
That is more concerned with the here and now than the hereafter*
8.6 53 NA NA
In which people are encouraged to translate their personal faith into action in their daily lives
8.5 44 8.5 42
That offers opportunities to get involved in church activities outside of worship
8.4 35 8.1 33
In which people demonstrate their faith by showing respect for the earth and the environment
8.3 36 8.5 43
That works with impoverished or poor people to find ways to improve their situation
8.3 32 8.4 39
Whose members work for justice in the world 8.2 29 8.4 40
That has a culture of encouraging regular financial donations to support the work of the church locally, nationally and around the world
8.2 35 7.7 26
IMNA Q22g, i, k, o, p, r, u, cc, nn Identity Q22g, i, k, o, p, r, u, cc
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 71
*Not asked in Identity Survey
IMNA - MISSION Attributes of an Ideal Church: One to Which You Would Like to Belong
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important) IMNA
Your Church Identity 2011
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
A Church That is
Engaging and
Dynamic
That encourages questioning and debate 8.7 47 8.4 40
Where people are continually in the process of discovering new ways of looking at and understanding their faith
8.5 45 8.3 38
That offers opportunities to help make decisions about the direction of the church
8.5 42 8.4 36
That offers its members worship and study opportunities that engage both the emotions and the intellect
8.5 46 8.3 37
That is open to changing the way it does things 8.4 41 8.3 38
That uses many different styles of music 7.5 23 7.9 32
IMNA Q22a, c, l, t, dd, hh Identity Q22a, c, l, t, dd, hh
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 72
IMNA - MISSION Attributes of an Ideal Church: One to Which You Would Like to Belong
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very
important) IMNA
Your Church Identity 2011
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
A Church That Is Focused on Discipleship
That offers the possibility of personal transformation, for example, turning one’s life around or changing the way one looks at the world
8.1 28 7.9 32
That helps people to live according to the teachings of Jesus*
7.9 30 NA NA
That invites members to grow in their relationship with Jesus
7 19 8.2 40
Where members are encouraged to follow Jesus as disciples
6.8 16 7.9 36
Where the Bible is the primary focus of preaching
6.4 15 7.3 24
IMNA Q22b, f, j, n, oo IdentityQ22b, f, j, n
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 73
*Not asked in Identity Survey
IMNA - MISSION Attributes of an Ideal Church: One to Which You Would Like to Belong
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very
important)
IMNA Your Church
Identity 2011
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
A Church That Helps to Bring People Closer to God
Where God’s presence is felt 8.0 41 9.0 61
That encourages its members to pray 7.3 24 8.2 40
That encourages and provides ways for people to engage in spiritual practices such as meditation
7.1 12 NA NA
IMNA Q22q, y, mm Identity Q22q, y
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 74
*Not asked in Identity Survey
IMNA - MISSION Attributes of an Ideal Church: One to Which You Would Like to Belong
Importance (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important)
IMNA Your Church
Identity 2011
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
MEAN
TOP BOX
“10”
A Diverse and Intercultural Church
In which the people of the congregation demonstrate their faith by showing respect for diversity in all its forms*
8.8 58 NA NA
That seeks opportunities to recognize and celebrate diverse identities**
8 26 6.6 15
That actively tries to build relationships among people of differing faith traditions and cultures
7.9 22 8 33
That tries to be understandable and accessible to people whose first language is not the primary language of worship in the congregation
7.5 25 7.5 25
That uses expansive language for God, for example, in which God is referred to, not just as Father, but also as Mother, Creator, Holy One, etc
7.3 35 6.6 23
That at times uses prayers or readings from other non-Christian faiths in worship
6.8 11 6.3 13
That encourages newcomers to Canada to maintain connections with faith communities in their home country
6.3 17 6.5 16
IMNA Q22w, ee, ff, gg, ii, kk, ll IdentityQ22w, ee, ff, gg, ii, kk, ** Slight change in question wording from 2011 Identity Survey to current IMNA survey
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 75
*Not asked in Identity Survey
MISSION • Attributes of an Ideal Church
• A Welcoming Church
•A Church That Accompanies People on Their Life Journey •A Church that turns Faith into Action •A Church That is Engaging and Dynamic •A Church that is Focused on Discipleship •A Church that Helps to Bring People Closer to God •A Diverse and Intercultural Church
•Summary of Priorities for an Ideal Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 76
IMNA - MISSION Summary of Priorities for an Ideal Church
IMNA Q22
ATTRIBUTE
A Church That Turns Faith Into Action
A Welcoming Church
A Church That Accompanies People on Their Life Journey
A Church That is Engaging and Dynamic
A Church that Helps to Bring People Closer to
God
A Church that is Focused on Discipleship
A Diverse and Intercultural Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 77
IMNA Q22
Importance IMNA (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important) Your Church
MEAN TOP BOX “10”
That is inviting and welcoming to everyone 9.4 76 That values the presence and contribution of people of all ages, from children and youth to
seniors 9.2 68
That accompanies people through the most difficult times of their life 9.2 66
That reaches out to those in the local community who need help 8.9 50
In which members demonstrate their faith by showing respect for all people regardless of their sexual orientation
8.9 65
In which the people of the congregation demonstrate their faith by showing respect for diversity in all its forms
8.8 58
That approaches life’s deepest issues with a respect for personal freedom and choice 8.8 46
That encourages questioning and debate 8.7 47
That is more concerned with the here and now than the hereafter 8.6 53
Where people are encouraged to translate their personal faith into action in their daily lives 8.5 44
That places an emphasis on helping people with the day-to-day issues in their lives 8.5 37
Where people are continually in the process of discovering new ways of looking at and understanding their faith
8.5 45
That helps people grow spiritually 8.5 38
That offers opportunities to help make decisions about the direction of the church 8.5 42
That offers its members worship and study opportunities that engage both the emotions and the intellect
8.5 46
That offers opportunities to get involved in church activities outside of worship 8.4 35
That is open to changing the way it does things 8.4 41
Where people demonstrate their faith by showing respect for the earth and the environment 8.3 36
That works with impoverished or poor people to find ways to improve their situation 8.3 32
Whose members work for justice in the world 8.2 29
That has a culture of encouraging regular financial donations to support the work of the church locally, nationally and around the world
8.2 35
That offers you a place to build deep personal relationships 8.1 32
IMNA - MISSION
IMNA Q22
Summary of Priorities for an Ideal Church, Continued
ATTRIBUTE
A Church That Turns Faith Into Action
A Welcoming Church
A Church That Accompanies People on Their Life Journey
A Church That is Engaging and Dynamic
A Church that Helps to Bring People Closer to
God
A Church that is Focused on Discipleship
A Diverse and Intercultural Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 78
Importance IMNA (on a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is very important) Your Church
MEAN TOP BOX “10”
Supports same sex couples in marriage 8.1 43
That offers the possibility of personal transformation, for example, turning one’s life around or changing the way one looks at the world
8.1 28
Where the worship services feel comfortable and familiar 8 32
Where God’s presence is felt 8 41
That seeks opportunities to recognize and celebrate diverse identities 8 26
That actively tries to build relationships among people of differing faith traditions and cultures
7.9 22
That helps people to live according to the teachings of Jesus 7.9 30
That performs same sex marriages 7.8 43
That tries to be understandable and accessible to people whose first language is not the primary language of worship in the congregation
7.5 25
That uses many different styles of music 7.5 23
That uses expansive language for God, for example, in which God is referred to, not just as Father, but also as Mother, Creator, Holy One, etc
7.3 35
That encourages its members to pray 7.3 24
That uses inclusive language, for example, changing the words of old hymns to include both men and women, not just men
7.2 31
That encourages and provides ways for people to engage in spiritual practices such as meditation
7.1 12
That invites members to grow in their relationship with Jesus 7 19
That at times uses prayers or readings from other non-Christian faiths in worship 6.8 11
Where members are encouraged to follow Jesus as disciples 6.8 16
Where the Bible is the primary focus of preaching 6.4 15
That encourages newcomers to Canada to maintain connections with faith communities in their home country
6.3 17
Needs Analysis
What Do You Need To Fulfil Your Mission and Ministry?
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 79
NEEDS ANALYSIS
•Overall Needs in Your Church Today •What is Needed to Create Meaningful Worship? •What is Needed to Promote Engagement with Mission and Ministry? •Ministry Personnel Needs
•Desirable attributes in ministry personnel •Your faith community’s openness to diversity
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 80
NEEDS ANALYSIS
•Overall Needs in Your Church Today •What is Needed to Create Meaningful Worship? •What is Needed to Promote Engagement with Mission and Ministry? •Ministry Personnel Needs
•Desirable attributes in ministry personnel •Your faith community’s openness to diversity
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 81
IMNA - NEEDS Summary of Overall Needs in Your Church Today – “High Priority”
IMNA Q23
81
70
64
61
60
43
37
35
10
Increase the number of children/youth in your congregation
Offer opportunities for children and youth to grow in their faith
Increase givings to the local operations of your church
Develop in the people of the congregation a mindset of real “hospitality”, which will help to make your church a truly welcoming
place for all
Increase the number of adults in your congregation
Offer opportunities for the people of your congregation to grow and deepen their faith
Increase participation and engagement of people in the worship life of your congregation
Increase participation and engagement of people in the ministries of your congregation
Increase givings to the Mission and Service (M&S) of The United Church of Canada
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 82
IMNA - NEEDS Overall Needs: Growth in Givings
IMNA Q23g, h
64
10
29
45
5
43
Increase givings to local operations
Increase givings to Mission and Service
High Priority Medium Priority Low Priority
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 83
IMNA - NEEDS Overall Needs: Growth in Numbers
81
60
16
34
2
5
Increase the number of children/youth in your congregation
Increase the number of adults in your congregation
High Priority Medium Priority Low Priority
IMNA Q23e, f T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 84
IMNA - NEEDS Overall Needs: Growth in Faith and Hospitality
70
61
43
26
31
50
4
8
8
Offer opportunities for children and youth to grow in their faith
Develop in the people of the congregation a mindset of real “hospitality”, to help make your church a truly welcoming place for all
Offer opportunities for the people of your congregation to grow and deepen their faith
High Priority Medium Priority Low Priority
IMNA Q23a, d, i
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 85
Overall Needs: Growth in Participation and Engagement
37
35
50
52
13
12
Increase participation and engagement of people in the worship life of your
congregation
Increase participation and engagement of people in the ministries of your
congregation
High Priority Medium Priority Low Priority
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q23b,c
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 86
NEEDS ANALYSIS
•Overall Needs in Your Church Today
•What is Needed For Meaningful Worship? •What is Needed to Promote Engagement with Mission and Ministry? •Ministry Personnel Needs
•Desirable attributes in ministry personnel •Your faith community’s openness to diversity
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 87
Summary of Priorities for Meaningful Worship (Needed on a Weekly Basis)
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21
92
92
83
80
74
67
58
57
56
55
43
41
41
24
12
Anthems sung by a choir
Preaching
The offering is treated as an act of worship
Children’s time/story
Congregational hymn singing
Clergy wearing robes when they are leading worship
Lay participation in worship
Use of contemporary translations of the Bible
Prayers offered by lay people
Silence/meditation in worship
Well-known prayers recited by heart
Story-telling (not just for children)
Rituals or gestures such as candle lighting
Use of technology to project hymns/prayer words
Use of multi/social-media techniques
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 88
Summary of Priorities for Meaningful Worship (Needed on a Weekly Basis), Continued
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21
12
9
8
8
7
6
6
5
4
4
4
4
3
3
2
1
0
0
Intergenerational services
Worship services other than Sunday morning
Interactive sermons
Experimentation in worship
Child-oriented family worship other than Sunday
Electronic or online worship across Canada
Communion
Pub night with discussion around faith and meaning
Youth-led services
Healing services
Jazz or rock/pop music services
Outreach activities instead of worship
Public sharing of faith journeys
Blessing of the animals
Meditative worship such as Taize
Fellowship activities instead of worship
Creative dance movement
Baptism
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 89
Meaningful Worship: Traditional Components IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21b, c, e, g, h, dd
92
92
83
74
67
43
6
4
7
5
4
37
2
3
7
20
4
12
0
1
3
1
18
8
Anthems sung by a choir
Preaching
The offering is treated as an act of worship
Congregational hymn singing
Clergy wearing robes when they are leading worship
Well-known prayers recited by heart
Every week
Monthly
Once or twice a year
Almost never/Never
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 90
Meaningful Worship: The Sacraments IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21i, j
6
0
59
27
32
71
3
1
Communion
Baptism
Every week
Monthly
Once or twice a year
Almost never/Never
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 91
Meaningful Worship: Congregational Involvement
58
56
41
3
34
33
23
17
6
5
32
59
2
6
4
20
Lay participation in worship
Prayers offered by lay people
Rituals or gestures such as candle lighting
Public sharing of faith journeys
Every week Monthly Once or twice a year Almost never/Never
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21d, f, k, aa
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 92
Meaningful Worship: Intergenerational/Children/Youth Services
80
12
7
4
17
44
38
25
1
41
35
69
3
1
13
2
Children's time / story
Intergenerational services
Child-oriented family worship other than Sunday
Youth-led services
Every week Monthly Once or twice a year Almost never/Never
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21a, o, r, w
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 93
Meaningful Worship: Use of Technology
IMNA Q21v, x, z,
24
12
6
25
31
18
15
32
38
33
24
35
Use of technology to project words of hymns, prayers etc.
Use of multi/social-media techniques including Youtube
Electronic or online worship across Canada
Every week Monthly Once or twice a year Almost never/Never
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 94
Meaningful Worship: Engagement Strategies
57
55
41
8
0
27
21
43
28
13
12
19
12
48
59
5
6
4
15
28
Use of contemporary translations of the Bible
Silence / meditation in worship
Story-telling (not just for children)
Interactive sermons
Use of creative dance movement
Every week Monthly Once or twice a year Almost never/Never
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21l, p, s, u, y
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 95
Meaningful Worship: Special Services
4
4
3
2
57
20
4
25
26
50
35
53
10
28
53
20
Healing services
Jazz or rock/pop music services
Blessing of the animals
Meditative worship such as Taize
Every week Monthly Once or twice a year Almost never/Never
IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21m, n, q, t
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 96
Meaningful Worship: Alternative Models IMNA - NEEDS
IMNA Q21bb,cc, ee, ff, gg
9
8
5
4
1
35
28
30
12
12
36
48
42
57
48
18
16
22
26
39
Worship services other than Sunday a.m.
Experimentation in worship, even if sometimes awkward
Offer alternatives to Sunday worship such as a Thursday evening pub night where
people discuss faith and meaning
Replace Sunday worship with outreach that takes people out into the world
beyond the church walls
Replace Sunday worship with a fellowship activity to build and enhance relationships
in your faith community
Every week
Monthly
Once or twice a year
Almost never/Never
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 97
NEEDS ANALYSIS
•Overall Needs in Your Church Today •What is Needed to Create Meaningful Worship?
•What is Needed to Promote Engagement with Mission and Ministry? •Ministry Personnel Needs
•Desirable attributes in ministry personnel •Your faith community’s openness to diversity
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 98
What is Needed to Maintain or Increase Engagement in Your Congregation’s Mission and Ministry?
IMNA Q28
65
55
48
45
42
39
35
14
Being encouraged to grow in your faith
Hearing inspiring stories about how lives are changed
Deepening your relationship with God
Expanding your understanding of the Bible
Talking about your faith with others
Being inspired to engage in God’s mission
Receiving pastoral care
None of the above
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 99
NEEDS ANALYSIS
•Overall Needs in Your Church Today •What is Needed to Create Meaningful Worship? •What is Needed to Promote Engagement with Mission and Ministry?
•Ministry Personnel Needs
•Desirable attributes in ministry personnel •Your faith community’s openness to diversity
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 100
IMNA Q24
86
82
81
77
74
74
69
68
65
64
59
57
54
52
An ability to create meaningful worship
An interest in welcoming new people
A gift for providing compassionate pastoral care
A gift for preaching
A gift for building community both inside and outside your church
An ability to work with teenagers and young adults
A willingness to share decision-making with lay people
A willingness to speak honestly and plainly about Bible interpretations
Leadership skills to help your congregation achieve goals
An ability to delegate jobs and responsibiities to others
An ability to work with children under age 13
An interest in celebrating diversity in your faith community
An ability to lead small groups, e.g., Bible study, peer support groups
An openness to meaningful change in decision-making processes
IMNA - NEEDS Summary of Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel (“Strongly agree” )
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 101
IMNA Q24
51
51
50
50
48
47
45
44
44
43
42
37
37
37
An ability to resolve conflict among people in the congregation
An interest in seeking out new ways to be a vital Christian community
An ability to help people of all ages be good stewards
A willingness to take risks to find new ways of being church
An interest in offering non-traditional interpretations of belief/faith
A skill for helping your people respond to God's call, even if very different
A gift for spirituality characterized by self-awareness, mindfulness
A dedication to pursuing justice and outreach
A gift for self-care such as being intentional about taking time off
An ability to guide the congregation in a formal planning process
A commitment to promoting a culture of stewardship
A willingness to encourage people to give in support of the local church
A skill for helping your congregation discern its ministry and mission
An openness to experimentation in worship
IMNA - NEEDS Summary of Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel (“Strongly agree”), Cont’d
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 102
IMNA Q24
35
34
32
31
29
28
21
19
18
17
16
16
16
14
A commitment to spreading the good news of the Gospel
A commitment to discipleship, i.e., following Jesus
An openness to carrying on the congregation's traditions
An interest in developing ministry partnerships outside your church
An ability to oversee significant change in identity such as amalgamation
An interest in solitude and personal prayer
An interest in particpating in the work of the wider church
An ability to manage church property issues
An interest in helping your people connect with the denomination
A willingness to encourage people to give to M&S
An interest in helping your people connect with other denominations/religions
An ability to help manage local finances
An aptitude for overall management of the church
An interest in helping your people connect with other United churches
IMNA - NEEDS Summary of Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel (“Strongly agree”), Cont’d
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 103
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Worship
IMNA Q24b, dd, ii, kk, mm, nn
IMNA - NEEDS
86
77
68
48
37
32
12
21
28
42
45
55
An ability to create meaningful worship
A gift for preaching
A willingness to speak honestly and plainly about Bible interpretations
An interest in offering non-traditional interpretations of belief/faith
An openness to experimentation in worship
An openness to carrying on the congregation’s traditions
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 104
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Discipleship
IMNA Q24 c, d, m, v, u, w, gg, oo
82
74
59
54
51
50
35
34
16
25
37
38
43
41
39
41
An interest in welcoming new people
An ability to work with teenagers and young adults
An ability to work with children under age 13
An ability to lead small groups, e.g., Bible study, peer support groups
An interest in seeking out new ways to be a vital Christian community
A willingness to take risks to find new ways of being church
A commitment to spreading the good news of the Gospel
A commitment to discipleship, i.e., following Jesus
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 105
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Stewardship
IMNA Q24i, r, s, t, y, z, gg
51
50
47
42
37
37
17
43
47
43
53
47
57
47
An interest in seeking out new ways to be a vital Christian community
An ability to help people of all ages be good stewards
A skill for helping the congregation respond to God's call
A commitment to promoting a culture of stewardship
A willingness to encourage people to give to the local church
A skill for helping the congregation discern their mission and ministry
A willingness to encourage people to give to M&S
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 106
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Justice and Outreach
IMNA Q24f, g y, z, oo, pp
74
57
50
47
44
37
24
37
41
43
48
57
A gift for building community both within and outside your church
An interest in celebrating diversity in your faith community
A willingness to take risks to find new ways of being church
A skill for helping your people respond to God's call, even if it means doing something very different
A dedication to pursuing justice and outreach
A skill for helping your congregation discern its ministry and mssion
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 107
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Pastoral and Spiritual Care
IMNA Q24e, o, q
81
16
14
19
58
43
A gift for providing compassionate pastoral care
An interest in helping your people connect with other denominations/religions
An interest in helping your people connect with other United Church congregations
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 108
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Personal Spirituality and Self-Care
IMNA Q24j, k, l, ee
64
45
44
28
33
51
46
42
An ability to delegate jobs and responsibilities to others
A gift for spirituality characterized by self-awareness, mindfulness
A gift for self-care such as being intentional about taking time off
An interest in solitude and personal prayer
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 109
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Ministry Partnerships
IMNA Q24h, o, p, q, cc
31
21
18
16
14
50
57
48
58
43
An interest in developing ministry partnerships outside your church
An interest in participating in the work of the wider church
An interest in helping people connect with the denomination
An interest in helping people connect with other denominations/religions
An interest in helping people connect with other United churches
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 110
Desirable Attributes in Ministry Personnel: Leadership
IMNA Q24a, x, aa, bb, ff, hh, jj, ll
69
65
52
43
29
19
16
16
29
32
37
47
37
37
48
47
A willingness to share decision-making with lay people
Leadership skills to help your congregation achieve its goals
An openness to meaningful change in decision-making processes
An ability to guide the congregation in a formal planning process
An ability to oversee a significant change such as amalgamation
An ability to manage church property issues
An ability to help manage local finances
An aptitude for overall management of the church
Strongly agree
Somewhat agree
IMNA - NEEDS
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 111
NEEDS ANALYSIS
•Overall Needs in Your Church Today •What is Needed to Create Meaningful Worship? •What is Needed to Promote Engagement with Mission and Ministry?
•Ministry Personnel Needs
•Desirable attributes in ministry personnel
•Your faith community’s openness to diversity
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 112
86 77
27 42
13 16
49 35
Visible minority Gay / Lesbian / Bisexual
First language not primary language of
congregation
Transgender
How comfortable are you?
Very Comfortable Somewhat comfortable
97 97 97
60 61
4 3 2
32 32
Male Female One male, one female
Two males Two females
How comfortable are you?
Very Comfortable Somewhat comfortable
Your Faith Community’s Openness to Diversity in Ministers
IMNA Q25, 26, 27
72
50 35 27 21 27
43 32
Visible minority Gay / Lesbian / Bisexual
First language not primary language of congregation
Transgender
How comfortable are you?
Very Comfortable Somewhat comfortable
95 90 91 75 71
4 7 6 18 19
Male Female One male, one female
Two males Two females
How comfortable are you?
Very Comfortable Somewhat comfortable
IMNA - NEEDS
Identity Q23,24,25
Identity 2011 (National) IMNA - Your Church
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s - 2 0 1 4 113
Next Steps for Faith
Communities
To come
T h e U n i t e d C h u r c h o f C a n a d a J a n e A r m s t r o n g R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e s 114