Frequently Asked Questions

The process is the work, and the work is the process.
– Lelanda Lee, Board Member of the 32nd Avenue Jubilee Center

How long does this process take?

Being called to this work is not a quick fix. If you are committed to working through every aspect of Called to Transformation, you might need 6 months to 6 years, depending on how prepared your community and congregation are for this type of change and work. The important realization is that this process should not be rushed. Taking time to celebrate after every cycle of work will help everyone feel like they are making progress.

Does Asset Mapping work in rural communities?

Yes, Asset Mapping is very much rooted in a rural tradition and mindset. Rural communities are familiar with “asset thinking,” because in a rural community people have always had to “use what you’ve got, to get what you want.” Rural communities build things for themselves from what they have. That’s why there is such a strong rural tradition of thriftiness and innovation. To a great extent, asset thinking is already here. Read more in Luther Snow’s flyer, Stevenson Strategies for Sustainable Small Towns by Snow.

Are all communities called to engage this work?

Not every faith community will be called to this work. Rather than feeling like that is an issue, consider that every faith community must walk its own path and understand its context. How do you know if your congregation is ready? Faith communities that are more likely to succeed will have strong, empowering and stable leadership, openness to the process, and a sense of calling that this process is right for them – not just something they have been “told to do” or because they think it will bring in members and money.