CONFIDENTIAL CASE STUDY - NAMES HAVE BEEN CHANGED
1. Background:
In its simplest form, this case is about whether or not our church should buy a new piano. However, there are several important background details, with each item making the problem increasingly complicated.
I have been serving as the lead pastor for Stratford First United Methodist Church for 3 months. Stratford is a town of about 18,000 people in Southern Oregon. It is the home of Southern Oregon University, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and it is about 30 min from the California border. These three factors make Stratford a unique community. The Shakespeare Festival runs from March to November and it is the hub of the community. Businesses, schools, and families all reflect …show more content…
However, for the last 20 years, she has been our main pianist, a paid staff position, and she is deeply loved by this church community.
Recently, Michelle asked that we begin the process of returning the sanctuary piano back to her. She asked that we make the change by this coming spring. This of course triggers another conversation about a replacement piano. Michelle has suggested that we utilize her relationship with a world renowned pianist, who would gladly do several free concerts. Additionally, Michelle knows an event promoter who believes that when promoted to the right people, these concerts can raise the amount of money needed to buy another world class grand piano ($25,000).
Michelle believes that in order to continue this church’s rich musical heritage, it is necessary that we purchase a piano of exceptional quality. Additionally, the Space Use committee is concerned that if we do not purchase a high quality piano we will lose the revenue from groups that rent our space and expect to rehearse or perform with a quality …show more content…
4. Evaluation:
I believe that my involvement thus far has been appropriate. As the conversation grew, and more people sought to get involved, I would insist that the conversation stays between only the necessary individuals. I’ve communicated to the staff that some decision must be made, since Michelle has asked for the piano back, but we must not make a quick and careless decision. However, in attempting to keep this issue close to the staff, rather than out in the public forum, I sense that some people believe I am asserting too much power, and am making decisions on my own that should instead be made by individual committees.
5. Theological Reflection:
A. Christian Formation: I believe that God is calling us to be more like pilgrims within this community. Our surroundings are constantly changing, and this church has survived by not reseting on it’s laurels, but by always rethinking and transforming why and how it does
1. Background:
In its simplest form, this case is about whether or not our church should buy a new piano. However, there are several important background details, with each item making the problem increasingly complicated.
I have been serving as the lead pastor for Stratford First United Methodist Church for 3 months. Stratford is a town of about 18,000 people in Southern Oregon. It is the home of Southern Oregon University, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and it is about 30 min from the California border. These three factors make Stratford a unique community. The Shakespeare Festival runs from March to November and it is the hub of the community. Businesses, schools, and families all reflect …show more content…
However, for the last 20 years, she has been our main pianist, a paid staff position, and she is deeply loved by this church community.
Recently, Michelle asked that we begin the process of returning the sanctuary piano back to her. She asked that we make the change by this coming spring. This of course triggers another conversation about a replacement piano. Michelle has suggested that we utilize her relationship with a world renowned pianist, who would gladly do several free concerts. Additionally, Michelle knows an event promoter who believes that when promoted to the right people, these concerts can raise the amount of money needed to buy another world class grand piano ($25,000).
Michelle believes that in order to continue this church’s rich musical heritage, it is necessary that we purchase a piano of exceptional quality. Additionally, the Space Use committee is concerned that if we do not purchase a high quality piano we will lose the revenue from groups that rent our space and expect to rehearse or perform with a quality …show more content…
4. Evaluation:
I believe that my involvement thus far has been appropriate. As the conversation grew, and more people sought to get involved, I would insist that the conversation stays between only the necessary individuals. I’ve communicated to the staff that some decision must be made, since Michelle has asked for the piano back, but we must not make a quick and careless decision. However, in attempting to keep this issue close to the staff, rather than out in the public forum, I sense that some people believe I am asserting too much power, and am making decisions on my own that should instead be made by individual committees.
5. Theological Reflection:
A. Christian Formation: I believe that God is calling us to be more like pilgrims within this community. Our surroundings are constantly changing, and this church has survived by not reseting on it’s laurels, but by always rethinking and transforming why and how it does