FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is RenewalWorks?
RenewalWorks is a catalyst for refocusing parishes (and the individuals in them) on spiritual vitality. It has been tailored to the Episcopal tradition, adapting 10 years of research that has uncovered key characteristics of flourishing congregations. It will inspire your congregation and leadership to rediscover who Jesus is, and what it means to follow him. Through a guided methodology of self-reflection, sharing and workshop discussion, RenewalWorks challenges parishes to refocus on spiritual growth and to identify ways that God is calling them to grow.
How much does it cost?
RW costs $500.00 per parish. Included in that fee is the following:
- The Spiritual Life Inventory and final report results.
- A guided timeline for the 12-14 week process.
- Three copies of Footsteps, which explains the importance of spiritual growth and the methodology behind RW. Discounted copies are also available for your congregation.
- Guided workbooks (digital downloads) for the parish workshop team and facilitator.
- Sample parish communication which can help explain the RenewalWorks initiative and Spiritual Life Inventory to your congregation.
- Online videos and weekly conference calls to help you prepare for the four workshops. Sharing of best practice materials from Episcopal parishes that have completed this process and discovered what works best for them.
- Support from the RenewalWorks team.
Several congregations have received financial assistance through their diocese, grants and other sources to help them participate when needed.
Can a group of churches in the same diocese or region participate together?
Often, parishes within a diocese participate in the process together. In this case, the churches complete the SLI at the same time and share best practices, preparation, training, etc. RW staff is available to assist in this effort. Please contact us directly if you are interested in sharing this idea with your diocese.
What is the Spiritual Life Inventory (SLI)?
An anonymous, confidential, online inventory (or survey) that explores an individual’s spiritual life. When the responses are viewed as a group, the results provide a snapshot of the spiritual vitality of the congregation. The SLI take about 30 minutes to complete and is available to the congregation over 3 weeks and 4 Sundays. Parishioners often report that simply taking the SLI is an important re-awakening in evaluating their own spiritual needs and desires.
Who can take the Spiritual Life Inventory?
Customarily, the SLI is geared to all parishioners over the age of 18, though some congregations have extended that to younger members, e.g., all those who have been confirmed.
Who participates in the workshop team?
The workshop team represents a cross section of the parish and consists of 9-24 individuals who will commit to participating fully in the process. It should resemble a clergy search committee.
Who should the facilitator of the workshop team be?
The workshop team should be facilitated by a member of the congregation (rather than clergy). It also helps to have an administrative person appointed to help with logistics.
Can someone from RenewalWorks facilitate our workshops?
While the process is designed to be facilitated by a member of the congregation, onsite workshop facilitation by a RenewalWorks representative may be available for an additional cost. Please contact us if that is something you are interested in.
What is the role of clergy in the RenewalWorks process?
Clergy support and participation in the RW process is very important, however the workshops are designed to be lay-led. Clergy should attend workshops to listen and participate in a limited manner. The results from the Spiritual Life Inventory will be delivered to the rector, or senior clergy to review and pass onto the facilitator and other leaders. Preaching about the importance of spiritual growth and discipleship is especially important during this time.
Is my congregation too small for RenewalWorks?
Congregations of all sizes have successfully participated in RenewalWorks. For smaller congregations, it will be important that as many parishioners as possible take the SLI so that the data will be statistically accurate. Some small congregations have opened the workshop process to the whole congregation to maximize the impact of the process. Another option for smaller churches is to use My Way of Love, powered by RenewalWorks for Small Groups. Please contact us to learn more and discuss if RenewalWorks is right for your congregation.
How can parishioners who do not have computer access take the Spiritual Life Inventory?
A printable version of the SLI is available for distribution to parishioners who need it. Someone will need to be trained and designated to do the data entry for inventories taken this way. Many congregations have had success setting up computer stations onsite at the church for parishioners to take the survey with volunteers available to assist those who are less computer literate.
My congregation is in the midst of a rector search, would RW help us with that process?
Several churches have used RenewalWorks in preparation for their rector search and have found it helpful in identifying particular strengths and qualities they should seek out in a new Rector. RenewalWorks is most successful with the full support of clergy in the implementation of the initiatives the Workshop team develops, so it will be important to share the results with the incoming clergy and ask for their support.
How is RenewalWorks related to Forward Movement?
RenewalWorks is a ministry of Forward Movement to help congregations reach deeper levels of spiritual vitality. Inspiring disciples and empowering evangelists around the globe every day, Forward Movement has been producing excellent, innovative resources to encourage spiritual growth in individuals and congregations since 1935. RenewalWorks serves Forward Movement’s mission to inspire disciples and equip evangelists in Episcopal congregations.
I have more questions—who can I talk to?
Please send any questions you might have to info@renewalworks.org.
The RenewalWorks staff, led by Loren Dixon, Director (ldixon@renewalworks.org) is available and interested in discussing RW with you.