Leading with Vitality Reflection 1

Movement vs Institution

We live in a time of movements. We live in a time when people gather around a cause or unite around an idea over social media. We live in a time when the informal, grassroots leader may have more power and legitimacy than the formal, elected leader. We live in a time when passion and adaptability are more highly valued than duty and dependability.

Not long ago, we lived in a time of institutions. Institutions value organization and structure. Institutions promote duty and obligation. Institutions develop policies and procedures to ensure that the institution endures into the future. The church of today was born in a time of institutions.

People today are drawn to movements, not institutions. Movements focus on people, mission, and action. Institutions focus on organization, policies, and programs. Both movements and institutions can be helpful approaches to life, but when was the last time you heard someone say:

“The thing I love most about this congregation is serving on a committee. I hope I get re-appointed when my term expires.”

Dr. Kennon Callahan suggests that movements think, plan, act and live in certain ways. As you look through the lists below think of yourself and your congregation. Which characteristics describe the way you think, plan, feel, dream, act, behave, and live?

Reflection by Pastor John Wertz, Jr.

Movement vs Institution characteristic list adapted from lectures by Dr. Kennon Callahan (Feb. 2008)

Questions for Reflection:

1. Think about a group you are involved in outside of the church. What drew you to that group and what keeps you connected to that group?
2. Which three to five words from the list above best describe your congregation?
3. What do those words teach you about your congregation?