The Christian church in North America is at a watershed. The world of Christendom is fading quickly, and the church struggles to find its place in an entirely new and unfamiliar culture. In this new world, the church's voice is no longer privileged; in fact, it has been relegated to the margins of everyday life.

To remain faithful, the church must adapt to this new situation, not merely by finding new forms through which to do the same old things, but by understanding itself and its mission in a new way.

This challenge is especially difficult for historic, long-established denominations and congregations. Starting over might seem the more reasonable approach, but I believe it is possible for and incumbent upon the church to faithfully re-form itself for ministry in this new world. Through research of best practices and approaches, I hope to find how other churches are making this transition, in hopes of helping my own do the same.

Critical to this process is a new understanding of leadership. My plans include significant opportunities to re-assess and change course in my own ministry, so that the work of the congregation can be mirrored by the work of its pastor.