For a study guide, see page 26.
In Oakland, Calif., Resurrection Lutheran’s members, many from East Africa, learned that “just doing something outside the church” is an effective way to invite neighbors inside. Vincent Masabala (left), Marie Sana, Erick Byorwango, Jane Moshi and Godfrey Malloda do just that by planting. (See page 25.)
Next steps: Gather resources
on positive relations among people. It uses proven methods for moving from thought to action. This approach to congregational vitality has a spiri- tual core that includes the example of Jesus, the lives of other biblical lead- ers and the stories of Scripture. Wis- dom and principles of generic com- munity organizing complement it. Why does it work so well, reliably moving congregations toward sturdi- ness, stability or growth? A simple answer: It’s not a program. CBO is a practical approach or way of thinking about how groups— propelled by a purpose—can get things done. Yes, there are skills to be learned and precepts to follow, but at its heart CBO offers a different way of doing church—one that’s possible for any congregation. What characterizes CBO and why
does it work anywhere? This method of organizing can add integrity and accountability into a congregation’s culture, guiding leaders toward effective meetings and using contin- uous evaluation to guide next steps. This approach to congregational life rests solidly on relationships formed in natural conversations. At a practical level, CBO helps churches deal with money realisti- cally and honestly. It analyzes and uses personal and corporate power toward achievable outcomes and cuts massive, overwhelming problems down to matters that can be managed. Members develop skills such as invit- ing, insisting, planning, researching, listening and team-building. CBO starts with the passions and assets already present, depending
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1. Begin with prayer, especially for congregational leaders. Commit to forsaking dead-ends, futility and unwise directions. Pay attention to where God is leading. 2. The Power Analysis is an easy- to-use device that helps people understand the depth of power rela- tionships already present in a con- gregation—an important step in dis- covering people’s capacities to make a difference (contact Susan Engh, ELCA director for synodical partners in mission and congregation-based organizing, at 800-638-3522, ext. 2731, or
susan.engh@elca.org). 3. Hope at Work: First Steps in Congregation-Based Community Organizing: Follow Elena, Robert, Pastor Kathy and others at Hope Church as they provide nutritional food in their community. The comic book format includes a small-group guide (
www.elca.org/comicbook). 4. Doing Justice: Congregations and Community Organizing by Dennis A. Jacobsen (Fortress Press, 2001): A thorough description of the personal and practical dimensions of congregation-based organizing, written in an approachable style by an experienced practitioner. 5. The ELCA congregation-based organizing website (
www.elca.org/ organizing): A focus on the prin- ciples, methods and positive stories related to the power and energy of community organizing. It empha- sizes the growth and development of leaders in a variety of arenas.
November 2013 21
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