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A Facilitator’s Perspective
Each parish that signs up to Church21 will be assigned a Facilitator, someone who will work with them over the two year process to offer advice and encouragement. Mrs. Mary Good facilitated first time round and answers a few questions about what’s involved.
What do you think is at the heart of facilitation?
I think the key to facilitation is a listening heart. Willing to set aside what ‘I’ think would work or is needed and really listen to the group and what they see as important.
What do you think makes someone a good facilitator?
Being willing to let go of ‘self’ and be there for the group and trying not to impose my own opinions on a group. I would, of course, venture an opinion occasionally but with the understanding that it is put out there to add to the discussion, not as an answer to it all. Also trying to encourage those present in the job they are already doing in their church. I would also be very conscious that I want to build up the Rector in the presence of his/her parishioners.
What would you be looking for from a parish if it’s to benefit from this process?
I feel they would need to have spent time thinking through some of the basic issues before I arrive. It’s vital that they have done the preparation course or had other thinking time and have a basic understanding of what the process is all about. My role is not to introduce the idea of Parish Development.
How did you personally benefit?
I thoroughly enjoyed travelling with the group, seeing them get excited about what could be done. I just enjoyed the entire experience.
Posted by John Ryan on 10 Dec 08
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