The team model for mission is one of six sample
models that may be modified according to your unit's needs and plans.
A team
approach to
organizational
structure is
fluid and
easily altered
as needs and
skills change.
While it is
still
necessary to
have leaders
designated to
convene the
group, gather
and
disseminate
information,
and act as
treasurer,
authority is
shared and
decisions are
generally made
by consensus. |
|
Leadership is developed based on the skills and gifts of individual women, and often accomplished through mentoring. Ministries to be done are based on the current interests of the group and the needs of the community.
Things to do consider when organizing as a team
What are the gifts and interests of the women? What ministries are suggested?
What ministries are you interested in doing this year? Who will help with them?
What activities are you interested in doing this year? Who will help with them?
In what ways can a seasoned leader help a newer leader learn to lead? Who could form partnerships for leadership?
Match gifts and interests with tasks to be done. Ask questions like, "Who is good at ..."
checking for mail and sharing the news with the group?
collecting the offering, sending it on for mission, and keeping records?
being in charge at meetings?
being in charge at events?
publicizing events and programs?
helping in lots of little ways?
seeing the forest (the larger picture)?
seeing the trees (the smaller picture)?
How does the team model differ from traditional hierarchical models of organization?
The focus is on accomplishing the ministries that are important to the group and their community.
All gifts have equal value and are given by the Spirit for the good of the community. (1 Corinthians 12)
All voices have equal weight or power. Power in ministry and decision-making is shared among all. Each one empowers others.
Information is shared with all at the same time.
Allowing all voices to have equal power may lead to change, which can be both frightening and exciting. Either way, facing change will lead to spiritual growth for the organization.
Commitments are short-term, for one year, or for a specific task, with clear and explicit descriptions of expectations.
More people take turns at leadership because they know they will be valued as team members, given a chance to be heard, and won't be "stuck" in the position beyond the agreed-upon time. |
