In a recent conversation with some GMC leadership, I asked about year-end reporting. The forms have yet to be generated, which is OK; the denomination is still young.  Still, we are Methodist, and we will end up keeping statistics. My point in asking was to say two things: first, let's not go crazy and track everything, but let's talk about tracking the most important things and reporting those things to provide accountability for keeping those things at the forefront. 

So, how do we decide what to track? My suggestion is to start with our desired outcomes and what things are easily tracked by a congregation that will indicate that a church and or pastor is doing those things.  What is most important? Let me list a few things that I would include, and you can email me your thoughts about what you would include (pastor@christchurchgastonia.org).  Let me note that I have no way to enact any of this for the Global Methodist Church directly. 

1.    Professions of Faith – (people who have never joined a church before confessing faith in Jesus Christ and joining the church regardless of whether they have been baptized before their confession or not.)

2.   Baptisms

a. Children

b. Adult

3.   Accountability Groups (Band meetings): small groups of 3-6 that meet expressly to shepherd one another using Wesley's questions for Bands.   I am organizing a Band for the GMC clergy of Gaston County.

a. What known sins have you committed since our last meeting?

b. What temptations have you met with?

c. How were you delivered?

d. What have you thought, said, or done, of which you doubt whether it be sin or not?

e. Have you nothing you desire to keep secret?

4.        Attendance in Worship

5.        Membership totals: people joining, leaving, and deaths.

There are other things to track and celebrate. A good rule is to count what you celebrate and celebrate what you count.  What do you want us as Christ's Church to count on and celebrate?  Affirm items above and add others such as Outreach/missions events/teams and what else. Be as specific as you can.  What of those should the denomination count as well? 

Peace,

Pastor Burt