The New How is HOT off the press from O’Reilly, written by Nilofer Merchant, an Episcopalian and fellow member at St. Jude’s Episcopal Church. Months ago she told me it was due out at the beginning of the year and I was blessed today to get a copy during the coffee hour.
This book is amazing! I strongly recommend you buy a copy and begin reading it together with your vestry, board, staff or friends.
While written for business, we know well that the church as an organization depends upon collaboration and divine inspiration. Along with the book by Patrick Keifert, We Are Here Now, Community written by Peter Block and The World Cafe I perceive that The New How may help many churches identify where they are today, the passions and gifts of engaged members and the unique needs in our context of ministry.
Maximizing the power of OrgSync and Social Media
While implementing OrgSync in your church or organization, do not neglect the use of the discussion forum and polling tools. These are designed to help you open up dialog and learning. Too often we try to manage biblical knowledge and the life of the church from the top down. Many argue that you can’t lead people beyond where you yourself have gone. We would argue that this maxim is most useful when applied to philosophies of ministry not the knowledge of God. OR is there anyone who has complete understanding of God? Did not Jesus say not to look down on the children (Mt. 18:10)? We are called to be disciples, learners, student of Jesus. He is the head of the church, the author of our salvation and the Lord of creation.
The root of collaboration is in the value of persons. This value matures when we respect and appreciate the virtues, strengths, experiences and wisdom of others. As your church devotes itself to prayer -listening to the Holy Spirit- and engages in the use of OrgSync’s discussion boards and polling we hope that you will find new energy, unleash creativity and cultivate stronger bonds of love among you.
If you would like to get in touch with Nilofer to engage her in working with your church, organization or Diocese, I’d be happy to introduce you to her. Simply send me a message, email or call.
