Dear Church Family,

As part of the leadership transition process, we have set aside July 7, 9, 14, and 16, 6:30–8 p.m. for member listening sessions.

We will gather at the church to hear your thoughts and vision for Alive's future. Please use the questions below as conversation starters to guide your input.

If you are unable to attend in person, we encourage you to share your thoughts by emailing the Leadership Team.

1. Looking Ahead: The Future of Alive Ministries

  • What strengths of Alive Ministries do we most want to preserve during this transition? 

  • Where do you see the greatest opportunities for growth over the next 5–10 years? 

  • What ministry priorities should the next pastor embrace? 

2. Desired Characteristics in a New Pastor

Leadership & Vision

  • What leadership qualities are most important in our next pastor? 

  • Should the next pastor be more visionary, relational, administrative, teaching-focused, or community-focused? 

  • What leadership gaps should we intentionally address? 

Spiritual & Teaching Style

  • What strengths in preaching or teaching are most important for our congregation? 

  • What theological or ministry values should remain central? 

Relational Style

  • What type of pastoral presence would best serve our church family? 

  • What expectations should we realistically have for availability and involvement? 

3. Lessons Learned from Pastor Terry’s Ministry

  • What aspects of Pastor Terry’s leadership have been especially effective? 

  • What traditions, values, or practices should continue? 

  • Are there areas where fresh approaches could help the church grow? 

4. Transition Concerns & Fears

  • What concerns you most about the transition period? 

  • What communication would help reduce uncertainty? 

  • What ministry disruptions are you worried about? 

5. Search Process Input

  • What qualities are “must haves” in the next pastor? 

  • What would be concerning or problematic in a pastoral candidate? 

  • What questions should we be asking pastoral candidates? 

6. One Final Open Question (Very Important)

  • What question have we not asked that you think we need to hear?