Twelve Keys to an Effective Church

A thoroughly revised and updated edition of one of the most trusted and authoritative strategic resources for church leaders In this second edition of his groundbreaking book, Kennon Callahan identifies the twelve essential qualities of successful, growing churches and offers all congregations a way to unlock their potential for effective ministry. The Twelve Keys program balances practical planning with theological understanding to help churches function more effectively as they seek to grow and better serve their members. Shows church leaders how to claim and expand upon their church's strengths and become a mission growth congregation Explores each of the twelve keys in depth, from mission to visitation to worship to relationships to programs to details of facilities maintenance Based on a time-tested approach that has been used by hundreds of thousands of churches Now incorporates the planning guide (previously a separate publication) The book includes solid, practical guidelines and tools to help any church become a strong, healthy congregation.

A Prayer viii Part One: The Basic Qualities Grace 3 Strengths 12 Compassion 21 Excellent Sprinters 30 Act Swiftly 37 Part Two: The Twelve Keys 1. One Mission Outreach 53 2. Shepherding Visitation 69 3. Stirring, Helpful Worship 84 4. Significant Relational Groupings 105 5. Strong Leadership Team 123 6. Solid Decision Process 139 7. One Major Program 148 8. Open Accessibility 161 9. High Visibility 174 10. Land, Landscaping, and Parking 184 11. Adequate Space and Facilities 205 12. Generous Giving 223 Conclusion: Mission, Sacrament, Grace 239 Appendixes A Twelve Keys Celebration Retreat 249 Charts 253 Twelve Keys Action Plan 257 Acknowledgments 261 Special Acknowledgments 263 About the Author 267 Books by Kennon L. Callahan 269 Index 273