Recently, Valley View Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee, embarked on a significant journey through the Church Consultation process facilitated by the Nashville Baptist Association (NBA). This process was designed to assess the church's health, legacy, and future potential by examining aspects like attendance, financial trends, and community demographics. Here's how this journey unfolded for Valley View Baptist Church, according to Mitchell Karnes, a church member, and Matt Wilson, the Interim Pastor.
Challenges Identified
Mitchell Karnes highlighted several challenges faced by Valley View Baptist Church, including recent tensions, a drop in attendance, and a perceived disconnect with the community. "We haven’t changed with our community. We need new connections with the people around us," he noted. Interim Pastor, Matt Wilson echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the church's failure to evolve alongside its neighborhood.
Impact of the Futuring Process
Engaging in the NBA's futuring process brought a new perspective to the church leadership. Karnes expressed that the process instilled "hope and a plan," while Wilson found it "eye-opening," providing a spiritual renewal and strategic direction for the church's leaders. This process unified the leadership in understanding the church's lifecycle and the necessary steps forward.
Key Insights and Learnings
The process was likened by Wilson to a medical diagnosis for the church, offering clarity on past and present states, and focusing on future possibilities. Karnes pointed out the value of an honest assessment, the potential for partnerships with other churches, and the NBA's guidance as crucial insights.
Leadership and Congregation Benefits
Both Karnes and Wilson noted significant benefits from the consultation. For Karnes, it brought "renewed excitement and hopeful anticipation," while Wilson learned extensively about the congregation and the broader implications of church strategies like replanting or revitalization. This educational aspect was pivotal in helping the congregation understand and accept future directions.
Future Hopes
The church now looks forward to a future marked by life, growth, and relevance, as Karnes put it. Wilson expressed hope for Valley View to continue as a "Gospel outpost" in East Nashville, actively engaging in outreach and renewal efforts.
Reflections on the NBA's Role
Karnes was "very pleased and impressed" with the NBA's approach, while Wilson appreciated the association's experienced guidance, which was both pastoral and straightforward. This support was instrumental in navigating the church's future.
Encouragement for Other Churches
Both leaders strongly recommended the futuring process to other churches. Karnes emphasized the communal aspect of church, suggesting that struggling churches should seek help from the broader body of Christ. Wilson added that the knowledge gained is empowering, allowing for more targeted prayer and Spirit-led decision-making.
The NBA can help your Church
The NBA’s church consultation process is a valuable tool for congregations seeking renewed health and vitality. By honoring a church’s history, assessing its present, and envisioning a Spirit-led future, the NBA helps churches like Valley View move forward with clarity and purpose. If your church is at a crossroads or ready to take the next step toward revitalization, consider reaching out to the Nashville Baptist Association.
Bob Bickford
Executive Director
bbickford@nashvillebaptists.com