2006
Robert A. Davenport
What Do You Do After You’ve Dug the Well, Built the Rectory and the Bishop Needs a Land Rover?
This paper is an attempt to show that two parishes from very different cultures within the Anglican Communion can be strengthened, individually and together, through a shared planning process. Profiles and analysis of two parishes, one in Southern Malawi, another in Northern Virginia, are developed as a strategic planning process is put into motion for results to be interpreted. It was found that standard approaches to parish ministry in one culture may not be so workable in another. The process was deemed less appropriate than a more flexible inquiry that would serve both communities. If relationships like this are to flourish and the fruits of the Spirit are to be manifest, then patience, grace, and cheerful persistence are necessary. It is hoped this work will strengthen the ministries of both parishes and will be helpful to other parishes with similar circumstances and hopes.