Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. Prepare to sail! The preparation for strategic planning : Preparing the navigator: a prelaunch checklist ; Preparing the crew: readiness for the process ; Preparing the boat: developing the strategy
2. Set the course! The process of strategic planning : Developing a biblical mission: what we are supposed to be doing ; Developing a compelling vision: the kind of church we envision ; Discovering the core values: why we do what we do ; Introducing the ministry strategy: how we accomplish the mission and vision ; Reaching the church's community: strategy activity 1 ; Making mature disciples: strategy activity 2 ; Building a ministry team: strategy activity 3 ; Assessing the ministry setting: strategy activity 4 ; Raising and managing finances: strategy activity 5
3. Pursue the course! The practice of strategic planning : Launching the boat: implementing the strategy ; Evaluating the course: how we are doing
Appendixes : Readiness for change inventory ; Leader-manager audit ; Covenant of commitment ; Strategic development worksheet ; Implementation barriers audit ; Vision statements ; Vision style audit ; Values statements ; Core values audits ; Community survey ; Character assessments ; Ministry description ; Setting: creating a welcoming environment ; Sample evaluations