2. Change Agitator
Being a Change Agitator means convincing others that it is time to shift from one position to another. Change Agitators protest against stagnancy or mediocrity in their organisations and worshipping communities. For example, they speak out against any form of injustice or are horrified by spiritual apathy. While other agitators seek out excellence in gifts and ministries. They hunger to see the kingdom of God extended to every soul and lives transformed. They feel uncomfortable when these things are not being done. You don’t have to have a formal title to be a change agitator but you must be ready to build a case for change if you want to carry people with you. Your task is to mobilise others into recognising change is needed and wanting it as much as you do.
Stop, Start, Continue Exercise
Activity – The case for change
150 minutes
(See Resources section to download the templates for tips on Building a Case for Change & Creating a Compelling Vision)
1. Create a sense of urgency
Write down answers to the following (you can also do this activity in a team)
- Why do we need to change? What’s the rationale behind the change?
- What are the benefits if we do?
- What are the consequences if we don’t?
- What resources do we need?
- How soon do we need to change? Giving a timeline helps to manage people’s expectations and allay any initial fears
In many Christian organisations and communities, if the change is a major one, your first audience for this ‘sense of urgency’ presentation will be to your PCC, Trustees, or the first group of people who hold the power to ‘green light’ your project.
2. Build a compelling vision together
Give some sense of the vision. Determine what the overarching vision for the change is, such as:
- Creating a more comfortable worship experience (e.g. softer seating)
- Becoming a mission-focused church
- Attracting young families and youth and cater for their needs
Mobilise other change agitators
Start sharing your case for change and the initial vision with others. Look for those who have a similar passion for your change project and are ready to join you in discerning God’s direction. These change ambassadors will also help you verify what the Spirit is saying. Your change agitators are the ones who will eventually champion the vision and encourage others to get on board.
Get the vision right
Bring key people together (e.g. leadership team, impacted audience) for a Vision Day where everyone who is impacted by the change can start to imagine what the future looks like. They may have plenty to say. Be prepared. (See Tension Creator session for some ideas)
Outcomes from the above activities
- It triggers collaboration and shared discernment
- You begin to build buy-in from those who are impacted by the change as they understand the need for doing something new
- By sharing the vision more widely and allowing others to participate, you are starting to develop a culture that embraces new things
Activity: Identifying your Change Agitators
60 minutes
- Like to create something new
- Relational, team players and work well with others
- See the glass as half-full
- Show others how to adapt to new situations
- Are influential
Is there anyone in your worshipping community or organisation who have any of the above abilities or skills? These change ambassadors will not only support the change project but help you get it done.
You can download the Change Agitator video here
Video: Making Vision Stick - Part 1: Introduction (Rev Andy Stanley)
Video: Making Vision Stick - Part 2: State It Simply (Rev Andy Stanley)
Stop, Start, Continue Exercise (see lesson)
SOAR Template (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations,Results)
Book: Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness, Richard H Thaler and Cass R Sunstein
Book: Lead: 50 Models for Success in Work & Life, John Greenway, Andy Coombe, Andy Blacknell
Video: How to create a sense of urgency