The purpose of Longing to Belong/Conflict Transformation is to help congregations break up the
hard, stale ground which results from past disagreements and conflict that have impeded the
church from moving forward in ministry. This is accomplished by teaching the congregation how
to work through their differences and hurts while strengthening their relationships with Jesus
Christ and one another through employing new behaviors and skills that empower them to let go
of past hurts and to grab hold of God’s promising future.
Plowpoint’s Longing to Belong/Conflict Transformation process is specifically designed to equip and
empower churches to navigate safely through periods of transition and conflict so they can move
forward into future ministry together.
Plowpoint Church Transformation Team members utilize the following model to facilitate the
congregation in reclaiming God’s promising future for their church:
- Core biblical teaching utilizing the study Longing to Belong.
- Development of a relational covenant.
- Facilitated storytelling (through the practice of Christian Conferencing).
- Identification of key issues for moving forward.
- Closing celebration of healing/closure such as fellowship meal and/or communion.
- Personal coaching sessions with pastoral leadership.
- Summary Report with recommendations for next steps.
- Follow-up with church leadership regarding next steps for moving forward.
Approximate length: six to eight weeks including a six hour Longing to Belong workshop.
