Gathering Information

An initial step in our search for a new rector is developing a parish profile that outlines who we are as a parish and where we want to go in the future. The profile committee is using two primary methods for getting a sense of the concerns and aspirations of the congregation: the Congregation Assessment Tool (CAT) survey (from Holy Cow Consulting) and listening sessions, where parishioners can discuss their concerns and their hopes for St. John’s.

 

CAT Survey

The CAT survey was available for parishioners to complete from April 24 through May 15, 2023. 207 parishioners filled out the survey of 100 questions. The target for participation was 180, representing approximately 25% of the members of the parish, so the response was even better than anticipated! Thank you to all who took the time to answer the survey.

 A summary of the survey results will be emailed to parishioners by June 16th. If you would like a summary of the survey results and do not receive one in your email, please contact Ed Kase (ejkase23@gmail.com) or Sarah Kiefhaber (sarahhkiefhaber@gmail.com).

 

 

Listening Sessions

The profile committee scheduled six listening sessions where parishioners gave the committee broader and deeper information about their participation at St. John’s. The committee used a set of questions (listed below) to stimulate discussion, but conversation was not limited to those topics. Parishioners who were unable to attend any of the scheduled sessions are invited to communicate with a member of the committee (by email, phone or in person) to make their opinions known

Listening Session Questions

  • What brought you to St. John’s and what keeps you here?

  • How does St. John’s strengthen your faith and nurture your soul? What could be done to improve this?

  • What would help you to grow spiritually?

  • Thinking of other rectors (or clergy), what are the traits you appreciate from those you’ve had a good experience with? What hasn’t worked well?

  • How could St. John’s do a good job integrating between the age groups?

  • What actions should we take to make children and youth feel engaged in the life of our church?

  • How could we foster deeper relationships among parishioners?

  • What is your vision for St. John’s in the future?