Leadership In Church Conflict: Transforming Congregations Through Adaptive Work

Abstract

<p>The purpose of this thesis is to help church leaders learn to respond effectively to conflict that arises during times of change. In order to transform a community of faith, change is needed. Transformation involves changing perceptions, behaviours, opinions, and even personal values. Transformation requires a renewed purpose for and commitment to reaching communities with the gospel. In order for this transformation to take place, however, Christian leaders need to be equipped with an approach to help people effectively work through conflict that accompanies change. This transformational process is what Ronald Heifetz calls adaptive work. It involves learning to diminish the gap between reality and the perception of reality that currently shapes a congregation's response to their current circumstances. This thesis will present church leaders with a team-based approach for responding to situations of conflict arising from change. My aim is to help inspire transformation using an adaptive work model.</p>