Vaughn Park Church is a diverse congregation of Christ’s disciples serving greater Montgomery, Alabama, through loving service, heartfelt worship, Biblical teaching and relevant evangelism. 2 Table of Contents

Vision and Mission...... 5

History ...... 6

Congregational Assessment...... 12

Community Assessment ...... 16

Kingdom Assessment...... 33

Search Committee...... 39

3 Living for Him, Speaking about Him, Serving in His name

4 Vision

Showing God’s love to all the world by living for Him, speaking about Him, and serving in His name.

Mission

Living for Him We will live sacrificially . We will be fervent in our pursuit of holiness . We will worship him passionately .

Speaking about Him We will speak about God to unbelievers by proclaiming the gospel . We will speak about God to believers by studying the Scriptures together . We will speak about God as we encourage and advise each other .

Serving in His Name We will use our spiritual gifts to build up the body in love . We will offer our resources to build up the church and serve our community . We will offer our time and our labor to build up the church and our community .

The Vaughn Park church will be led by the Spirit, all to the glory of God.

5 A History of Montgomery and Vaughn Park Church The history of Montgomery William Lowndes Yancey, an probate office granted at least embodies complexity, diversity, Alabama state legislator and U .S . 164 licenses to slave traders and innovation . Parts of that Congressional representative, operating in the city from 1848 past are tied to some of the most led the charge for Alabama’s to 1860 . Nearly 45% of the city’s somber episodes in American secession from the Union, population was made up of history -Slavery, Reconstruction, following Abraham Lincoln’s slaves . Montgomery became and the Jim Crow era . However, election in 1860 . On January 11, one of the most important it is also the birthplace of the 1861 the Ordinance of Secession and conspicuous slave trading Civil Rights movement, home passed and Alabama seceded . communities in the United to one of the first electric street One month later representatives cars, and the Wright Brothers’ from Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Flight School . Montgomery is Mississippi, and South Carolina full of history that is just waiting met in Montgomery to form the to be explored, understood, and Confederate States of America . appreciated . Montgomery was named its first In 1819, two towns located capital . on the Alabama River, New Cotton drove the economy Philadelphia and East Alabama in the Confederate states . With Town, merged to form the the introduction of the cotton city of Montgomery . This new gin, prime location, and a community was named for robust transportation system, States . This abhorrent part of the General Richard Montgomery, a Montgomery dominated this past should never be omitted . patriot who died in the American industry . The city’s population Almost a century after the end of Revolutionary War . After many and revenue flourished the Confederacy, Montgomery decades of growth and change, expeditiously . As the cotton would be the cradle of another Montgomery became the fifth trade grew, so did Montgomery’s significant period in U .S . History . and final state capital in 1846 . slave trade . The Montgomery In December 1955, the

6 birth story was quite unique . Typically churches that merge occur from a split, division, or conflict within a congregation . Some happen because of a decrease in membership or a decline in spiritual motivation and commitment . Vaughn Park was special because it didn’t fit either category . Frankly put, two thriving churches decided to come together to better serve God and the city of Montgomery . In 1983 talks began between Lakewood, Druid Hills, and Carriage Hill Churches of Christ . After careful consideration, Montgomery Bus Boycott began times in history, the city was the the elders felt that there was a following the arrest of Claudette epicenter for riveting innovation . better compatibility between Colvin, and later Rosa Parks, In 1886, Montgomery unveiled Lakewood and Druid Hills . The who both refused to give up a city-wide electric car system . leaders in the two congregations their seats to white passengers . It was nicknamed the Lightning began conversations in the Fred D . Gray, a Montgomery Route and was one of the first summer of 1984 . By that time native, prominent Civil Rights of its kind to operate in the both churches had outgrown attorney, and Church of Christ country . This technology was their facilities . After exploring preacher, defended Colvin and the blueprint for depopulating several different sites in the city, Parks, who were charged with residential city centers and the elders found the perfect disorderly conduct . These events gave rise to the development of spot: a beautiful cow pasture dramatically altered the course modern-day suburbs across the of history, not only in this city United States . In 1910, brothers but throughout the country . The Wilbur and Orville chose an boycott ended the following old cotton plantation on the December when the United outskirts of Montgomery to be States Supreme Court declared the home of the Wright Brothers that segregated buses were Flying School . Soon after it unconstitutional . These events closed, the location served as were crucial to the Civil Rights an aircraft building and repair movement and paved the road to depot during World War I . This desegregation in the country . Dr . installation became Maxwell Air Martin Luther King, Jr . returned Force Base . The Air University was to Montgomery in 1965 to lead established on these grounds in the Selma to Montgomery 1946 and still educates military March, protesting unfair voting officers from around the world . standards for blacks and the Jim The Vaughn Park Church Crow laws . The march brought of Christ, like the city of national attention and led to the Montgomery, began with two Voting Rights Act of 1965 . groups coming together to build Amidst these two diametrical a better community . Our church’s

7 left those meetings with one mindset, and we spoke as one unit ”. George Mitchell, Clyde Barganier, Sam Cooper, Charles Draper, Mike Greene, Robert Woods, Randall Bailey, Bill Dodson, Doyle Springer, Jody Pigg, Gordon Ward, Roxy Wishum, Allen Lassiter, Terry Brown, Ronnie Rolph, Mike Rogers, and Herman Hedgspeth are all previous elders who adopted the same sense of oneness . Currently Dale Entrekin, centrally located between the “It was quite the experience . David Savage, Ben Young, Ken two churches, on the corner of There had to be a lot of expressed Copeland, Doug McCarty, Mark Vaughn and Perry Hill Roads . love and understanding going Trevathan, Steve Nelson, Steve Unfortunately, this plot was on ”. In the same article Pace said, Bullington, and Mitch Henry not for sale at any price . The “I think the fact that we got along have followed their predecessors’ family who owned it had been so well helped the members footsteps in leading our church in approached by many others but get along ”. The ministers that unity . refused to sell . Clyde Barganier, followed Mathis and Pace are Before the two churches a former elder said, “ It took a lot Mark Smith (1995-1999), Carlus physically joined, leadership of negotiating and praying to Gupton (1999-2001), and Brad used an unprecedented get the family to sell us the land . Sullivan (2002-2019) . None of method to assess whether the We had to agree to make sure them had the unique experience congregations would work that the church’s design would of a shared pulpit . However, they together . They swapped Bible be aesthetically pleasing to the all exhibited the same disposition class teachers . Each congregation area, and we would not under of harmony to the congregants . sent their teachers to the other any circumstance bring in any The first elders to serve church to conduct classes . The brightly lit signage around the Vaughn Park were Emory exchange was wildly successful . property ”. Design plans for the (Mac) McKinney, Wiley Cutts, The first joint worship service on new construction were drawn up Charles Elliott, Jack Quinn, R .C . December 16, 1984 was held at and shared with the owners for Bates, Wilburn Bullington, Sam the Davis Theater in downtown review . They were pleased and a Cannerday, and Tom Estes . Sadly, Montgomery . Over 700 people letter of intent to purchase was Mac McKinney passed away attended . Before the new signed on March 10, 1985 . before the merger was complete . construction was completed, Unity and cooperation were The elders became one the key ingredients to making cohesive group because of the the merger successful . These many meetings they had in elements were especially evident planning the new congregation . in the pulpit . Don Mathis and Charles Elliot, a former elder said, Martel Pace, both preaching “Putting two groups of elders ministers from each church, together wasn’t always easy . shared the pulpit duties during We had differences of opinion the first years . Mathis said in a sometimes, but we always found Montgomery Advertiser article, common ground . We always

8 provided educational workshops, family programs, youth sports, and charity events . The church is not the building, it is the people . Brad Sullivan, a former minister said, “Vaughn Park is the most loving, giving church I’ve ever been a part of ”. In 2005, we were the first church in Montgomery to open its doors to Hurricane Katrina evacuees and the last to close . Recently Vaughn Park provided relief to displaced communities from Panama City, FL after Hurricane Michael . We have a variety of ways for members to connect, worship, Druid Hills church was leased to make a statement . I believe we and serve . Our ministries include Southern Technical College . This have been true to our purpose . classes for adults, college, youth, led to the two churches having We have held to the Restoration and children . Some of our joint services at Lakewood for Plea, we have let scripture be the ministries are tailored to specific a time . During the transition final authority, and we have held needs . These include marriage, 800 members filled the pews up love as the ultimate Christian men, ladies, and AIM (Adults in designed for 500 . According to virtue . It would appear that God Motion) classes . Our church offers an article from the Montgomery is honoring our efforts ”. Indeed, childcare to the community Advertiser, Mrs . Norma Williams God was and is . through our Mother’s Day Out said, “It was really close for a Vaughn Park is a church program . Vaughn Park funds while, but the Lord worked with a servant’s heart . When the missions that stretch from across everything out for the best ”. Family Life Center was added in the street to across the world . The new facility was 1999, the church became even Currently we are involved in completed in the summer of more involved in the community . Inner City, Mount Dora Children’s 1987 . The first service in the We have been fortunate enough Home, Rainbow Omega, World new building took place on to have hosted many blood Bible School, Baja Missions, HIM May 17, 1987 . Attendance was drives, served as a polling station, (Hope Inspired Ministries), and tremendous that Sunday . 784 participated in Bible classes, 1018 in morning worship, and 858 at the evening service . The numbers continued to grow over the next couple of months . By September of the same year the balcony of the church was opened, pews were added, and the parking lot had to be enlarged to keep up with the growth . In a 1997 church newsletter, Mark Smith, a former pulpit minister wrote, “Vaughn Park was intended to

9 As Montgomery changes, we are learning Vaughn Park’s eldership and leaders have responded to both to adapt with it. This adaptation, however, national and state mandates doesn’t mean we are conforming. Vaughn to protect us and those around us . Their decision to suspend Park is evolving, yet we are committed to services at the church was the path that God has set before us. carefully, thoughtfully, and prayerfully considered first . Agape for Children, an adoption Currently we have attendance On Facebook, Elder Steve and foster care organization . of approximately 600 during Bullington, said, “Perfect love Vaughn Park, from its inception, morning worship and steady casteth out all fear ”. 1 John 4:18 has been the hands and feet of numbers during Bible classes . (KJV) . Jesus . As Montgomery changes, These are fearful times, but Montgomery has changed we are learning to adapt with we can be confident that our over the decades . This evolution it . This adaptation, however, shepherds are doing their job- is evidenced: culturally, racially, doesn’t mean we are conforming . leading the sheep . Under their ethnically, socioeconomically, Vaughn Park is evolving, yet we guidance, staff, ministers, and and even its geographical are committed to the path that key members are providing borders . With these community God has set before us . online worship services and Bible fluctuations, Vaughn Park too has As this document was being classes to members and guests . seen its fair share of change . prepared, another historical Involvement minister, Denise Since the city is a part of the event was taking place and our Nelson said, “This virus outbreak tri-county region, many of its church was again evolving to reminds us that even when we residents have begun to migrate meet the challenge . On March take refuge in our homes, this to out-lying areas . Even though 11, 2020, the World Health world is not our home ”. there has been some decline in Organization (WHO) declared What an awesome guarantee membership over the years, likely COVID-19 a global pandemic . to look forward to . We can turn due in part to this migration This virus has touched this crisis into a Christ centered and other factors, we are still every continent . Hundreds of message to each other and the one of the largest, most diverse thousands have become infected community around us . Churches of Christ in the region . and thousands have died .

10 1990 Response COVID-19 2020 Online Church Martel Pace, pulpit minister Relief Michael 2018 1987 1995 Hurricane Mark Smith, pulpit minster parking lot enlarged. parking Construction completed; completed; Construction first service at Vaughn Park; Vaughn first serviceat Pace/Mathis, pulpit ministers; pulpit ministers; Pace/Mathis, Retired 2017 1986 1999 Mortgage Carlus Gupton; Gupton; Carlus pulpit minister churches combine combine churches Construction begins; Construction services Lakewood. at Family Life Center built; Center Life Family evacuees 1985 2001 2005 friend awards. name selected for new church. for Hurricane Katrina First area shelter for shelter area First Property purchased; Property purchased; Church earns national earns national Church safety and community 1984 2002 2004 pulpit minster Brad Sullivan, Sullivan, Brad merge; first joint first joint merge; Hills and Lakewood Hills and Lakewood Upward Basketball; Basketball; Upward Let’s Pretend Hospital Pretend Let’s Talks of merger; Druid of merger; Talks service at Davis Theater service Davis at Down Syndrome Meetings; Down Syndrome Hosts Vaughn Park Park Vaughn YMCA Events Events YMCA Vaughn Park Church Timeline Church Park Vaughn 1983 possible merger Carriage Hills about Carriage Discussion between Druid Hills, Lakewood, Lakewood, Druid Hills, 2003

11

Surrounding Communities Our most approximate cities are referred to as the “River Region” • Montgomery • Prattville • Millbrook • Wetumpka

Historical Significance Montgomery is nationally known for its many historic/ cultural landmarks and events such as the Alabama State Capitol, National Memorial for Peace and Justice, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, First White House Confederacy, Montgomery Bus Boycott, Hank Community Assessment Williams Memorial, Alabama War Memorial, and Alabama Introduction Demographics Shakespeare Theatre . The It has been our pleasure Montgomery is a city located city attracted the first electric to research and conduct the in the state of Alabama . In streetcar system and Wright assessment for the city of addition to being the county Brothers (Orville & Wilbur) first Montgomery and its neighboring seat for Montgomery County, it is school for powered flight . Today, towns . Our purpose has been to also the state capital . It is among Montgomery is the home of both expand our knowledge outside Alabama’s most populated Maxwell and Gunter Air Force the walls of the church and cities, along with Birmingham, beyond ourselves in pursuit of Huntsville and Mobile . the needs of our community . The last census taken in 2010 Through this analysis we have recorded a population of 205,764 exposed several needs and for the city . This number has since opportunities that exist in our dropped to 198,218 according community . Vaughn Park Church to recent estimates . The city has has always been committed to won multiple awards throughout serving others and will be eager its history, including being to establish stronger roots in named an All-America City, being areas in need . In conclusion, listed as one of the top cities we are certain about God’s for job growth, and named the intentions on establishing our “happiest city in Alabama ”. church in this city, at this time, Dexter Avenue and with a potential of growth King Memorial and prosperity in the future . Baptist Church

16 Bases . Economic Stronghold

In 2004, Montgomery landed one of the biggest economic development projects when Hyundai Motors Manufacturing Alabama built its $1 .4 billion automotive plant . The Montgomery location became the first assembly Montgomery is the home of both Maxwell and Gunter Air Force Bases. and manufacturing plant in the United States . It employs called the Montgomery Biscuits, Stadium, which is owned by the over 3,000 team members and Class AA affiliate of the Tampa City of Montgomery . The stadium currently produces the next Bay Devil Rays . The Biscuits were consists of several styles of generation Sonata sedan and the 2006 and 2007 Southern seating: executive box, super box, Santa Fe sport utility vehicle . League Champions . The team lawn and suite level . Montgomery acquired a plays in a newly renovated 7,000- minor league baseball team seat facility known as Riverwalk Culture & Attractions

Montgomery is known for its renaissance of historic downtown and redevelopment of the riverfront . Montgomery is a city rich in history, yet clearly focused on the future . We are more than just the capital of Alabama-we are the epitome of economic prosperity . We enjoy being the showplace for southern hospitality, beautiful weather, and high-tech jobs . Riverwalk Stadium, home of the Montgomery Biscuits Montgomery has one of

17 Alabama Shakespeare Festival at Blount Cultural Park the biggest arts scenes of any The Temptations, and guitarist the home of the now-defunct mid-sized city in America . The Tommy Shaw of Styx . Montgomery Bears indoor Wynton M . Blount Cultural Park Author and artist Zelda Sayre football team . in east Montgomery is home to was born in Montgomery . In Montgomery is also the site the Montgomery Museum of 1918, she met F . Scott Fitzgerald, of sporting events hosted by the Fine Arts . The Society of Arts and then a young soldier stationed area’s colleges and universities . Crafts operates a co-op gallery at an Army post nearby . The Several professional athletes for local artists . house where they lived when hail from Montgomery, including Numerous musical first married is today operated as Pro Football Hall of Famer Bart performers have roots in the F . Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Starr and two-time Olympic gold Montgomery: Toni Tennille of the Museum . medalist in track and field Alonzo duo The Captain and Tennille, The Yokohama Tire LPGA Babers . jazz singer and pianist Nat Classic women’s golf event is The city was host to the King Cole, country singer Hank held at the Robert Trent Jones 2015 World Firefighter Combat Williams, blues singer Big Mama Golf Trail at Capitol Hill in nearby Challenge . It aired on ESPN in Thornton, Melvin Franklin of Prattville . Garrett Coliseum was October of that year .

Hank Williams Statue National Memorial for Peace and Justice

18 Population Residents between the ages Population in 2017: 199,518 (98% urban, 2% rural) of 25 and 44 make up the largest Population change since 2000: -1.0% age group in the city, comprising about 27 .3% of the population . Nearly one-quarter of residents are under age 18, while 11 .8% are at least 65 years old . The overall median age is 35 .3 years, 33 .4 years for males, and 36 .8 years for females . For every 100 females there are 88 5. males .

Education in Montgomery For population 25 years and over in Montgomery: High school or higher: 85 .7% Bachelor’s degree or higher: 32 .0% Graduate or professional degree:12 7%. .

19 Income, EArnings, Wages, Home Value & Cost of Living

Estimated median household income in 2017 was $42,419, up from $35,627 in 2000 .

• Public administration (12.0%) • Professional, scientific, technical services (5.0%) Estimated per capita income • Health care (10.5%) • Transportation equipment (4.7%) in 2017 was $24,612, up from • Educational services (9.6%) • Administrative & support & waste management $19,385 in 2000 . • Accommodation & food services (9.4%) services (4.7%) Estimated median house or condo value in 2017 was $119,500, up from $84,600 in 2000 .

Median gross rent in 2017 was $827 .

March 2019 cost of living index in Montgomery was 84 .7, which is less than average . U .S . average is 100 .

20 Government Montgomery functions as a mayor-council system of government . The Council is represented by nine members, elected to serve four-year terms . The city prides itself on providing quality services to residents and businesses .

Montgomery City Officials serving Vaughn Park Church Mayor - Steven Reed District 5 Councilman - Cornelius Calhoun Police Chief - Ernest N. Finley Jr.

Governing Alabama State Capitol Influencers which allows the Police to have they desire higher quality school As a part of our work, surveillance in the community districts . our committee established through cooperating citizens Despite the issues that interviews with contacts from while utilizing their personal and/ plague Montgomery, John the Police Department and City or neighborhood security . This and Ronda are keenly aware Council . These resources are is part of an innovation that has of the strong bond that unites John Bowman, newly retired proved invaluable in improving many of us in the community, Police Chief of Staff, and Ronda efficiency in solving crimes in our especially in times of tragedy, Walker, Montgomery County city . Not only is this a reflection loss, or suffering . Both of them Commissioner . It was our on the community relationship were quick to point out the need greatest priority to unearth the MPD longs to build, but also and opportunity that will come the perspectives of these well- their commitment to using all from our enduring the COVID-19 informed public figures . Both of resources to expel crime . pandemic . Our citizens no doubt these leaders have served the While John acknowledges will come to the aid and relief city in highly esteemed ways and the benefits of technology, of many, as they already have have expertise in diagnosing he and Ronda understand the begun efforts to do . some of our city’s most pressing dangers . Ronda says social media matters . can also bring about challenges Our Neighborhood John expressed our city’s in the form of “trolling” and Mark 16:15 shares a safety is the highest importance fostering misinformation . These command given to us by Christ to the Police Department . false accusations can lead to “Go into all the world and preach Their success of reducing crime a decline in our city’s interests the gospel to all creation ”. This recently may be attributed to the and reputation . One area of is a mission we at Vaughn Park time spent improving relations in slight decline Montgomery is take as a high priority . As a part the community and upgrading experiencing is in our growth . of that commission, we have an access and use of technology . Ronda attributes it to some of the obligation to start with the our While working with the Police citizen’s interest in neighboring nearest “world,” particularly in our Department, John was connected counties . Her supposition is that neighborhood and schools . with the Star Watch program,

21 As a member of this neighborhood, our church has much to offer in terms of engagement . Joe mentioned several events the association orchestrates including national night out, clean up Saturday, and meet and greet . Our thriving children’s and youth ministry would also be a means of connecting to the children so close to our location . The presence of the church at these events can be a great avenue to the community .

Our Schools Vaughn Road Park The committee was able to acquire information from Joe Holly is the President of to improve the participation in two educators associated the Neighborhood Association the association . His priorities also with the Montgomery Public in Green Acres, a neighborhood lie in providing for the children School System, Wiley Cutts and that surrounds Vaughn Park in his neighborhood . One of his Lisa Furlong . Wiley is a retired Church . The association meets main concerns is seeking refuge Assistant Superintendent and at our church for their monthly for the youth during after-school principal for the Montgomery meetings and events . Joe has hours to aid working parents . Public School system, while been very grateful to have our Overall, Joe is constantly looking Lisa is currently working as congregation as a partner . He for the opportunity to provide a special education teacher has been watching over the the best leadership possible for in Montgomery . Their years neighborhood and coordinating his community . committing to our children and efforts with the police department, members from the Board of Education, and the City Council to ensure the stability of the neighborhood . Joe has initiated protecting his neighbors by implementing security cameras at the entrances of the neighborhood . He has also reached out to city officials about establishing an internet connection to become a member of Star Watch, a brilliant resource in the defense against crime . While Joe is most pleased with the strength and closeness of the neighborhood, he also would like

22 education come with a wealth opportunities to upgrade and opportunities to get involved as of knowledge about the present renovate facilities to create more a congregation . The schools offer state of our schools . stimulating environments and options for tutoring, mentoring, The Montgomery Public sustain fiscal operations . prayer, and financial support . School system has dedicated One important strength Volunteering in these capacities its time to fulfilling several in our system is well-trained can help influence many goals . Among them is preparing teachers with adequate resources students’ lives and act as a means students to be ready for their funded by Title I through the to assist the educators who are education after graduation, and government . Without such desperate for support . requiring educators to be well- resources, it will be impossible prepared, resource-supported, to overcome our system’s Community and effective in the classroom . biggest challenge, redirecting Outreach The administration also desires slow progress possibly due to Charity and humanitarian encouragement for their undisciplined students, poor efforts are expected in our students as they work to ensure conditions in the schools and general society . As members of children have a support system poor performing administration . the Lord’s church, He calls us to that promotes high performance Without quick action to support live out our faith through acts and engaging parents and the our schools in correcting these of kindness and to evolve our community . failings, more student loss may empathy into action . A large In an effort to ensure this be inevitable . part of our assessment included goal is met, they are committed While the dangers seeking answers to the question, to establishing multiple forms surrounding the progress of “what can we do to help?” The of communication to internal our school system seem grave, Committee set out to interview and external stakeholders of possible solutions rest in an the following organizations our public school system . Other increase of virtual learning and to uncover the needs and goals include managing financial raising school funding through opportunities that allow Vaughn resources responsibly as to create property taxes . There are also Park to provide our services .

23 Young’s Mentoring Program Inc.

6004 E . Shirley Lane, Suite B Montgomery, AL 36117 Clarissa Young, Founder

The Young’s Mentoring Clarissa feels that she can’t mission is to smile as we serve, help the child without helping motivate, love and inspire today’s the parent . She has established youth and their families . Clarissa classes in nutrition, parenting, Young, a Vaughn Park Church of and job skills to help everyone Christ member, started Young’s in the family . She also works Mentoring in 2011 as she felt with Montgomery’s homeless called by God to reach out to population . She has been able to those in need in the city of hire a case manager and assistant Montgomery . to help meet the needs of her This program’s goal is to clients . decrease suffering by offering H O. .P .E . Project (Help One clients the tools they need to Person Everyday) guides cope (self-esteem builders, everything Clarissa does . coping mechanisms, tutoring, Clarissa funds her mission personal hygiene, job etiquette, with donations and currently and people skills) . This program with a grant from ADECA . Her works to stimulate intellectual dream is to move to a larger curiosity and fill the needs of the facility where she can have an impoverished and marginalized after-school program and be in Montgomery . closer to the families she works Clarissa doesn’t believe in with . coincidences and knows that How Vaughn Park can help anyone in need that approaches Young’s Mentoring Program: her is someone God wishes her to help . The greatest challenges she • Donations to help purchase a sees in Montgomery are poverty van for transporting children and hunger . She opened our eyes and parents with many stories of citizens who • Donations to rent a larger have little to eat and housing facility that is without utilities, stoves, • Food and supply donations heaters, etc . • Assistance with parenting Clarissa has given hope and classes love to many in our city . She • Tutoring children often uses her own money to buy groceries and supplies needed by Donations can be made at those she serves . She works with YoungsMentoringProgram .org . children by advocating in the school system and tutoring .

24 Montgomery Area Food Bank

521 Trade Center St . Montgomery, AL 36108 Teressa Vigneault Millwood, Fund/Food Drives Events & Volunteer Coordinator

Montgomery Area Food Bank bank, Teressa looks for the future is a non-profit organization that revitalization of the city to do just services 35 counties in the Mont- that . gomery area . Their main priority is providing food to those who How Vaughn Park can help are destitute . the Montgomery Area Food Bank: Among their work is the emphasis on senior citizen hun- • Volunteer via food drives or ger and overall education about food donations healthy food choices . This orga- - Volunteers need to be nization finds comfort in the way 8-14 people the community rallies to support • Volunteer for Mobile Pantry their causes through volunteer- - Volunteers to submit ing and donations . In recent application and receive times, there has been a decline in training the services needed possibly due • Monetary donations $1 = 6 .5 to the active participation . lbs . of food Teressa offered wonderful insight to the operation of the food bank . She explained that one of the most interesting changes taking place in our community is the education of a healthy diet . This is a lesson that can impact multiple generations . Accordingly, Teressa believes families can also be benefited by teaching the rule of common courtesy and distributing love to the poorest in our community, like those she sees at the food bank . Teressa believes the church has been an important partner with this organization and can be used in many other areas as well . There are other opportu- nities that could have positive Vaughn Park Church drive-thru food pantry during COVID-19, above, and affects on the work of the food snack delivery to virus testing center, top.

25 Hope Inspired Ministries

145 Coliseum Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36109 Executive Director John Bowman

When asked to explain veterans, etc . Their goal is to the purpose of Hope Inspired enroll at least 20 individuals ages Ministries, Executive Director 18 and up into their program . John Bowman stated it is a Through this organization nonprofit organization that John has seen specific “teaches people how to fish” . community trends . He often This 6-week program helps its experiences the fragile nature of John believes one thing members to be self-sufficient by his students . They could be one citizens in our community teaching soft skills like managing choice away from back sliding would be surprised to know is finances, performing mock and wrecking their progress . how talented and driven these interviews, providing internships, John also mentioned the liability students are . He believes we all while maintaining a positive COVID-19 brings . Financial fallout underestimate their potential atmosphere and reinforcing from the slowing economy and work ethic because of their Christian values . The primary goal could alter program participants’ circumstances . It is in fact these is for the members to break down current stability . judgments that can keep us as all barriers to their success from In the future, John expects a congregation and community securing a Driver’s License to more church involvement in the from providing needed services ridding them of substance abuse . community . He expressed seeing to these individuals . Hope Inspired Ministries targets a steady migration of churches How Vaughn Park can help the chronically unemployed, low moving outside of their doors Hope Inspired Ministries: skilled/ educated, individuals and being more hands on with recently out of jail, homeless, the community that needs them . • Financial support • Prayer warriors • Mentoring • Lunch providers • Volunteers for morning devotionals • Volunteers as guest speakers

26 122 Clay St . Montgomery, AL 36104 Stephanie Brooks, Program Director

Mary Ellen’s Hearth offers and a bathroom shared with one able daycare . Many of the moth- hope to women and children by other family . Having their own ers don’t make enough to afford providing transitional housing safe shelter is something many daycare . Mary Ellen’s Hearth and life skills training . They offer of the families haven’t had in assists the moms in finding the healing through Christian love many years . Feeling safe is the best fit for their children so they and support . Stephanie Brooks first step to overcoming poverty, can work without worrying about asserts, the goal of Mary Ellen’s abuse, and neglect . The mothers their safety . When asked what her Hearth is for the families we serve are responsible for purchasing dream would be for her program, to leave us within two years with food for their families and use the Stephanie responded that her their dignity and self-respect kitchen to cook and care for their desire is to include a daycare in restored…prepared for a life of children . They receive assistance the program and to expand to independence . finding a job and life skills . They serve more families . They current- Stephanie explained how have mandatory classes in bud- ly have an empty section of the Mary Ellen’s Hearth gives shelter geting, finance, nutrition, com- building that she hopes to use for (currently a maximum of 10 fam- munity participation, and other expansion one day . ilies) and respect to the mothers essential skills . They receive funding and and children they serve . She gave Stephanie said one of the guidance from the United Meth- a tour of the facility which has main hindrances for these fami- odist Church, while the Church individual rooms for each family lies in achieving independence is of the Highlands also donates including beds, closets, storage the lack of accessible and afford- cleaning supplies each month . How Vaughn Park can help Mary Ellen’s Hearth:

• Donations to help build a pri- vacy fence around the play- ground . The moms and chil- dren do not always feel safe on the playground because of the location of the facility . • Cleaning and paper product donations • Assistance with parenting and teen classes • Tutoring children • Bible study leaders

Donations can be made at maryellenshearth .org .

27 900 Maxwell Blvd . Montgomery, AL 36104 Corps Officer Lt . Tonya Farrington

Lt . Tonya Farrington and her puter lab, and thrift store to help when it comes to Mental Illness husband Bryan have been in the population they serve . All in the homeless population . They Montgomery for 2 years and run the goods secured are donated are not equipped to manage the Salvation Army facility . It is or purchased through financial these cases, yet a good number classified as an emergency and donations . The organization of the people they serve have transitional shelter . Tonya report- partners with several churches, these issues . This is an area they ed on the organization, opera- military groups, and other orga- look to find answers for in the tions, and revealed the facilities . nizations to meet the needs of coming years . They can provide shelter for up the community . How Vaughn Park can help to 76 people per day . Emergency In 2019 the organization the Salvation Army: shelters provide rooms for up to did fall short in raising funds as From its inception, The Sal- 14 days and transitional options they received some negative vation Army has relied heavily provide stays for longer periods . press related to negotiations on volunteers to support its The shelter opens at 4pm and over their land for the new water programs . Often referred to as closes at 8:30 am daily . There are park . However, they did come to “the army behind the Army,” vol- separate dorms for men, women, an agreement with the city and unteers play a crucial role in the and family units . They provide will be in the new facility by late Salvation Army’s ability to pro- breakfast for the residents (over- 2021 . vide quality social services for the night stays) and dinner for the Despite the depth of capabil- entire community . Vaughn Park public (open to anyone) daily . ities in their facilities, the orga- can partner with the Salvation There is also a food pantry, com- nization does feel ill prepared Army in many ways .

• Sorting clothing • Stocking the food pantry shelves • Organizing donations- they get donations daily • Helping with meals • Tutoring in the computer lab • Helping with the angel tree • Preparing hygiene kits • Serving meals via the mobile relief van (if they are called to an area i .e . corona virus)

Donations can be made at www .give .salvationarmyalm org.

28 In 2019 Montgomery was awarded a Smart City grant . The Montgomery committee announced they were creating a Smart City Living Lab consisting of a nine- block corridor in downtown Montgomery featuring fiber- optic infrastructure, expansion of the city’s Open Data Portal, free public Wi-Fi, new lighting and smart parking solutions . Montgomery has earned two Smart 50 Awards from Smart Cities Connect . Montgomery will see our largest development in 2021 with the opening of a Multimillion- dollar whitewater park and National Memorial for Peace and Justice outdoor center in Downtown The Future of on the 2040 plan . Montgomery’s Montgomery . This $50 million, Montgomery downtown is home to the 25-acre park will feature rafting Montgomery Biscuits and and kayaking along a man-made In 2018 the City of amphitheater . whitewater course that twists Montgomery began to develop With the opening of the through restaurants, shops, an its first comprehensive plan in National Memorial for Peace and outdoor concert venue, a hotel more than 50 years . Envision Justice in 2019, Montgomery and conference center . The 2040 is a community-driven has brought many to the city for wider 120-acre site will feature process to create a vision the first time . This Memorial has a climbing tower, zip lines, and new plan for the city of helped us, and the nation, begin mountain bikes, rope courses and Montgomery . to heal from our past as we work more . Montgomery long known for to build a future for all citizens . its treasure of historical moments has begun to grow from that foundation to a vibrant capital city . Downtown Montgomery has seen the largest revitalization . During the last four years, downtown Montgomery has seen $169 million in construction . New lofts and apartments fill the area with full-time residents along with a large increase in hotels and restaurants . Growth in visitors is expected to continue for years to come with new attractions being added based Planned Whitewater Park and Outdoor Center

29 Closing Remarks guidance and assistance to our Fund/Food Drive-Events At the conclusion of our church and offer opportunities & Volunteer Coordinator, research and interviews, we have to volunteer to the community Montgomery Area Food Bank discovered various opportunities in various ways . The most • Stephanie Brooks, Program for us to lead our community . effective being prayer, but also Director, Mary Ellen’s Hearth The organizations, governing following recommendations • Lt . Tonya Farrington, Corps partners, and citizens of the from Alabama Department of Officer Salvation Army city of Montgomery have been Public Heath and the Center for wonderful partners for the work Disease Control to protect our Data Resources we have been called to do . The health and safety, live streaming City-Data .com love and dedication we have our worship and bible classes, Envisionmontgomery2040 .org witnessed from the members of organizing a collection for snack our community who have been donation to the healthcare Community Listings exposed to the most vulnerable workers, promoting comfort calls and desperate among us has to our members, orchestrating Hospitals been especially inspiring to our hand sewn mask donations, • Baptist Medical Center East, committee . It is our desire that and plenty of other efforts of 400 Taylor Road our church will capitalize on support and encouragement, • Baptist Medical Center South, the areas of opportunity that while maintaining our current 2105 East South Boulevard have been presented, so that commitments . We would like to • Jackson Hospital, 1725 Pine the influence of the church and thank our God for protecting us Street the name of the Lord will be and giving us peace in a time of • VA Central Alabama, 215 synonymous with the city of panic and providing us with such Perry Hill Road Montgomery . awesome leadership . God Bless Furthermore, we are in us all as we pass through the Airport troubling times as our city, ferocity of this storm . • Montgomery Regional nation and world are struggling (Dannelly Field) Airport to maintain normalcy during Appendix (MGM) . Montgomery the COVID-19 pandemic . In the Regional Airport flies over coming months and possibly Interview Resources 400,000 travelers annually years, there will be much work • John Bowman, Executive and provides $1 .32 billion for the church to do . There will be Director, Hope Inspired in economic impact for the church members who have been Ministries and retired region . affected physically, emotionally Montgomery Police Chief of • Maxwell Air Force Base (AFB) and spiritually . Consequently, Staff for Military, the 42nd Air Base non-members will be doubting • Ronda Walker, Montgomery Wing, has a considerable the existence of a God who County Commissioner impact on the region and would allow such death and • Joe Holly, Green Acres the community with more despair . Through it all, God will be Neighborhood Association than 12,500 personnel . praised and glorified especially President About 51% of Montgomery if His body of believers will seek • Wiley Cutts, retired Assistant Regional Airport’s operations out every opportunity to give Superintendent and Principal are related to the Military/ hope during a time of disaster • Lisa Furlong, Montgomery National Guard . and fear . Public School Special Our elders, ministers, and Education Teacher Colleges & Universities administration have responded • Clarissa Young, Founder of • Alabama State University, 915 in the most appropriate way . Young’s Mentoring S . Jackson Street . Full-time They have taken care to provide • Teressa Vigneault Millwood, enrollment: 5,457 .

30 • Auburn University at 2,826 . • Ridgecrest Montgomery, 7440 East Drive . • Southern Union State • South Central Montgomery Full-time enrollment: 4,092 . Community College, Wadley, • South Montgomery City • Faulkner University, 5345 AL (about 68 miles) Full-time • Southeast Montgomery Atlanta Hwy . Full-time enrollment: 4,120 . • Southlawn enrollment: 2,887 . • Columbus Technical College, • Southwest Montgomery • H . Council Trenholm State Columbus, GA (about 77 • Sturbridge Technical College, 1225 miles) . Full-time enrollment: • Vaughn Meadows Air Base Blvd . Full-time 3,241 . • West Montgomery enrollment: 1,275 . • Enterprise State Community • Woodmere • Huntingdon College, 1500 College, Enterprise, AL • Wynlakes East Fairview Avenue . Full- (about 79 miles) . Full-time time enrollment: 1,078 . enrollment: 2,101 . Montgomery Public Schools • Fortis College-Montgomery, • Baldwin Arts and Academics 3736 Atlanta Hwy . Full-time Neighborhoods Magnet, 334-269-3870 enrollment: 728 . • AUM (Auburn University • Bear Exploration Center for • South University- Montgomery Mathematics, Science and Montgomery, 5355 Vaughn • Arrowhead Technology, 334-284-8014 Road . Full-time enrollment: • Bonnie Crest Country Club • Bellingrath Middle, 626 . • Capitol Heights 334-269-3623 • Amridge University, 1200 • Chisolm • Blount Elementary, Taylor Road . Full-time • Cloverdale 334-244-0078 enrollment: 519 . • County Downs • Booker T . Washington Magnet • Fortis College-Montgomery, • Dalraida High, (334) 269-3617 3470 Eastdale Circle . Full-time • Dannelly Field (MGM) • Brewbaker Intermediate, enrollment: 209 . • Deer Creek 334-284-8006 • Prince Institute-Southeast, • Downtown Montgomery • Brewbaker Middle School, 7735 Atlanta Hwy . Full-time • Eastdale Mall 334-284-8008 enrollment: 133 . • Faulkner University • Brewbaker Primary, • Troy University Montgomery, • Forest Hills 334-284-8005 231 Montgomery St . • Garden District • Brewbaker Technology Enrollment: 3,023 . • Green Acres Magnet High School, • Gunter Air Force Base 334-284-7100 Nearby Colleges/Universities • Halcyon Park • Capitol Heights Middle with over 2,000 Students • Highland Gardens School, 334-260-1000 • Tuskegee University, • Hillwood • Carr Middle School, Tuskegee, AL (about 34 • Lagoon Park 334-244-4005 miles) . Full-time enrollment: • Lake Forest • Carver Elementary and Arts 2,810 . • Magnolia Golf Club Magnet, 334-269-3625 • Troy University, Troy AL • Maxwell Air Force Base • Carver High, 334-269-3636 (about 44 miles) . Full-time • Maxwell Heights • Catoma Elementary, enrollment: 16,148 . • Montgomery Country Club 334-288-5799 • Auburn University, Auburn, • Morningview • Children’s Center, AL (about 49 miles) . Full-time • Normandale 334-262-4850 enrollment: 22,741 . • North Central Montgomery • Chisholm Elementary • University of Montevallo, • North Montgomery 334-269-3643 Montevallo, AL (about 62 • Northeast Montgomery • Crump Elementary, miles) . Full-time enrollment: • Old Alabama Town 334-284-8020

31 • Dalraida Elementary, • Montgomery Preparatory • Eastwood Christian School 334-260-1007 Academy for Career (K4-12) • Dannelly Elementary, Technologies (MPACT), • Edgewood Academy (K-12) 334-269-3657 334-241-5307 • Evangel Christian Academy • Davis Elementary, • Morningview Elementary, (K4-12) 334-269-3662 334-260-1028 • Holt Street Christian Academy • Dozier Elementary, • Morris Elementary, (K-4) 334-260-1012 334-223-6920 • Holy Cross Episcopal School • Dunbar-Ramer School, • Nixon Elementary, (K4-6) 334-562-3250 334-269-3012 • Hooper Academy (K5 -12) • Fitzpatrick Elementary, • Park Crossing, • Lighthouse Christian 334-284-8044 334-260-8121 Academy (K2-9th) • Flowers Elementary School, • Pintlala Elementary, • Little Flock Ministries (K-11) 334-260-1015 334-288-9523 • Lowndes Academy (K-12) • Floyd Middle School for • Robert E . Lee High, • Macon East Academy (K3-12) Mathematics, Science and 334-269-3742 • Montessori Academy Technology, 334-284-7130 • Southlawn Elementary, (12mo - Kindergarten) • Forest Avenue Academic 334-284-8028 • Montessori at Hampstead Magnet, 334-269-3673 • Southlawn Middle, (18 mo-6 yrs) • Garrett Elementary, 334-284-8086 • The Montgomery Academy 334-260-1090 • Vaughn Road Elementary, (K-12) • Goodwyn Middle School, 334-260-1031 • Montgomery Adventist 334-260-1021 • Wares Ferry Road Elementary, School (2- 8) • Halcyon Elementary, 334-260-1036 • Montgomery Catholic 334-271-9000 • Wilson Elementary, Preparatory School (K4-12) • Highland Avenue Elementary, 334-272-8819 • Montgomery Christian School 334-269-3690 (K5-5) • Highland Gardens Montgomery Private Schools • New Hope Academy Elementary, 334-269-3685 • Adullam House Christian • New Life Christian Academy • Jefferson Davis High School, Academy (K3-12) (K3-12) 334-269-3714 • Alabama Christian Academy • Prattville Christian Academy • Johnson Elementary, (K3-12) (K3-12) 334-284-8016 • Autauga Academy (K3-12) • Resurrection Catholic (K4-8) • Lanier High, 334-269 .3726 • Bethany Christian Academy • Saint James School “STJ” • Loveless Academic Magnet (K5-8) (K3-12) Program High (LAMP), • Canterbury Technical • Success Unlimited Academy 334-269-3839 Academy (9-12) (K4-12) • MacMillan International • Chapman Christian Academy • Talent Education& Art Academy for Humanities, (K4-12) Christian Academy (Tea) (K-9) Communications and • Churchill Academy (K-12) • The Rock School (K-12) Technology, 334-284-7137 • Cornerstone Classical • Trinity Presbyterian School • Martin Luther King Christian Academy (K4-12) (K-12) Elementary, 334-284-8080 • East Memorial Christian • Valiant Cross Academy • McIntyre Comprehensive Academy (K4-12) and • Victory Christian Academy Academy, 334-233-7885 Preschool/Daycare (K4-12) • McKee Middle, 334-284-7528 (6wks-4yrs) • McKee Pre-K, 334-233-6801

32 Kingdom Assessment Listening to God through various church families in Montgomery, Alabama

As we read in Proverbs how we might better reach the Landmark 1:5, “let the wise listen and community, encourage, and Church Of Christ add to their learning and let build up those who become We met with Buddy Bell who the discerning get guidance” Christians and follow Jesus . We has been the Senior Minister at (NIV), the Kingdom Assessment pray that Vaughn Park will grow Landmark for 23 years . When subcommittee has endeavored because of this work and that this asked, “How is God working to listen to a variety of churches assessment will accurately reflect most powerfully through your in our area . Through listening, God’s work in our tri-county area . church to conduct His kingdom’s we feel that Vaughn Park will We are so anxious to meet our business?” Buddy replied, “Our become better attuned to God’s new minister—the one God is strength and focus is to help movement in our community preparing for us—and most of all people who are hurting . No and it will open our eyes to we want to show God’s glory to matter what issues people have, bold, new opportunities to that new minister and to all who they don’t have to cover them up better serve as the hands and take the time to read and reflect when they come here ”. feet of Jesus . Understanding on these interviews . Addiction support has that our traditional way of doing things might need some updating, our subcommittee conducted interviews with Landmark Church of Christ, Church of the Highlands, Frazer United Methodist(and John Ed Mathison’s Leadership Ministries), Inner City Church of Christ, and our close neighbor, Heritage Baptist Church . This rich variety of churches has provided so much insight into Landmark Church of Christ

33 become a very large part of When asked if there was get the position filled . Go slow their service and outreach . They a time or event that he could and only hire someone whom partner with Halcyon Elementary identify as a defining moment you feel is right for you . The new School which is physically near in the life of the church, Buddy preacher should be the vision the church building . He pointed laughed and responded “When caster and he should set the tone out they once worked extensively they hired me ”. Up until that time, for the staff—and he should be with Inner City, but “now inner Landmark had been a very proud empowered to do so . You need city has come to our front door” . and conservative congregation . someone with the heart for racial Landmark participates in the “Be There were four elders at the diversity, who understands the a Bridge” program that works to time, and they hired him without Church of Christ in Montgomery, bridge the racial divide in our doing the type of search Vaughn and who really wants to be in city . Park is doing . The membership Montgomery, Alabama ”. They have “ABC” groups­— was not happy with their choice, Adult Bible Commitment—which and members were lost as a Heritage meet on Wednesday nights so result . Some serious charges Baptist Church that childcare is not an issue . were made toward Buddy that he Heritage was chosen for These are support groups was allowed to address with the inclusion in this report because for issues such as addiction, they are just across the street depression, domestic abuse, from Vaughn Park, and our and many others . They employ former minister Brad had Life Groups (small groups) that maintained a relationship with mostly meet on Sunday evenings . some of the staff there . Associate All members are expected to be Pastor Brian Smith was kind involved in either an ABC or Life enough to sit for the interview . group . He has been at Heritage for five Landmark offers a new years . member class called Landmark Heritage has about 1,600 101 that teaches “why this is not members on roll and regular like the Church of Christ you Sunday morning attendance grew up with and why this is not of about 400-500 . Their Bible a church to be afraid of ”. classes are grouped by age Landmark Church reinforces its The things they believe God which contributes to maintaining vision through messaging in both is leading them to accomplish relationships . They have a small prominent and subtle ways. in the next three years are 1) group program, but it is fairly Helping improve the city school early in its development . They system (this is one reason congregation . At one point, the feel like what they do best is they have “adopted” Halcyon elders actually announced to the present themselves as a friendly Elementary) 2) Reach the congregation that their job was congregation and greet both younger generation (their 10:45 NOT to please the membership members and visitors . They service is more contemporary but to please God . They already hold several big events for the and appeals to young adults 3) had a vision for the new direction community that bring in large Become stronger disciples 4) they wanted to implement and numbers for social times and Continual work on racial conflicts . Buddy seemed to fit that plan . food . He added that one challenge of When asked his main advice for They are not pleased with the being an attractional church is our hiring process, Buddy replied, diversity they have achieved at that you can become shallow if “I am impressed that you are not this time . The vision statement you aren’t very careful . rushing to hire someone just to for Heritage is “Leading people

34 The Inner City Church has been in existence for 24 years and moved into a building in Boylston about 18 months ago . The purchase and subsequent work were accomplished with much financial and labor help from local congregations . Before moving to this location, the congregation was almost exclusively African-American, but is now more mixed racially which reflects the community . Since moving, they have doubled in size from about 40 to about 80 members . When asked about racial issues affecting the church, Heritage Baptist seeks to increase community outreach by focusing on a they responded “it is more of a one-mile radius of the church building and members’ homes. poverty issue than a race issue,” a sentiment that we also heard into a life changing relationship have been involved in Christian echoed in the Community with Christ in Montgomery education and church building Assessment . The congregation and beyond ”. They are making in the Montgomery area for has unique challenges resulting plans to increase Outreach to well over 60 years . They have a from widespread poverty and the neighborhoods around deep, personal connection to the there is an ongoing need to the church by encouraging the history of congregations in the balance caring for pressing concept of “One Mile” —meaning Montgomery area and shared physical needs while also guiding focusing on a one-mile radius insights regarding the church and feeding them spiritually . of the building and the areas planting and relocations over the Many of the members are in around each member’s home . decades . survival mode and struggling Heritage’s advice for Vaughn Park during this time is to critique all programs/ministries and cut the ones that aren’t working well and expand the ones that are . They suggested it is not fair to the new minister to make these changes after he arrives because members will think it was his initiative .

Inner City Church Of Christ Jimmy and Sue Crabtree were gracious enough to share thoughts with us regarding the work at Inner City . Both of them Inner City Church of Christ

35 with addictions, custody issues, advised us to really get to know and just keeping the bills paid . the prospective minister, far When asked how God is beyond the interview and sample working through Inner City sermon . His admonition to be Church, they enthusiastically able to articulate our church’s responded “evangelizing”! A culture seemed to affirm the group walks the neighborhood process we are going through at weekly, looking for people to this moment . invite to Bible study; they have John Ed was very kind added 12 new members recently regarding the reputation of through this outreach . They Vaughn Park in the community use their facilities for a monthly and said we are a Church of Christ community/safety meeting as with “a very positive reputation, well as a monthly breakfast for In recent years, Frazer Church has known for good things ”. John the neighborhood . adopted a more modern brand. Ed shared his ongoing ministry When asked for advice through Mathison Leadership for Vaughn Park in this season, with . Under his leadership, Frazer Ministries and presented us with Sue said to keep the focus on grew from 400 to 9000 members . copies of his latest book . Though evangelism and reaching the lost . When asked what Frazer does retired from preaching, he is still Jim said what bothers him most best, John Ed answered that they working diligently to reach the about Montgomery Churches used the lay people to do the lost and encourage the saved . of Christ is the conflict and lack work, intentionally having a small of harmony . We should not be staff . “Every member is a minister” Church Of The criticizing each other . He said was their motto . They originally Highlands Inner City is sometimes criticized had 15-20 percent of the church The final church in this because they receive financial doing 80 percent of the work . By report was actually the first help from both conservative and the end of the initiative, Frazer we interviewed and probably progressive churches . As we have had 82 percent actively involved the most powerful one in the interviewed both “attractional” in a ministry work . John Ed said, Montgomery area . and “missional” churches, Inner “a lot of people just want to sit at Jon Owen, who many years City Church of Christ is clearly church . But you can’t do that at ago was not only a member but missional . Frazer . People would say about also worship leader at Vaughn While Vaughn Park is not us, ‘don’t go to Frazer unless you Park, kindly gave us well over an filling the same role, we certainly want to be put to work!” hour of his time to share about can learn and be reminded of The vision statement for Church of the Highlands (COTH) . important principles by Inner Frazer is 1) Win people 2) Disciple They have about 4,500 in regular City . 3) Serve . They put that statement weekly attendance and offer five everywhere—walls, mailings, services on Sunday and one on Frazer United weekly bulletins, etc . John Ed said Monday . COTH also has about Methodist Church membership is not as important 2,000 who are part of the “Dream While it may be unorthodox as metrics like attendance and Team” — volunteers who accept to interview John Ed Mathison engagement . The four prongs and adhere to an honor code and for information regarding Frazer of involvement at Frazer are 1) accountability standards . since he has retired, he was the Attendance 2) Serving 3) Giving When asked the secret head pastor for Frazer for 36 4) Prayer . of the amazing growth and years and at 82 is still sharp as a When asked for advice in excitement at COTH, Jon replied tack and a pleasure to spend time the hiring process, John Ed that the magic sauce is prayer .

36 half semester during the summer when leaders take a break . Accountability is important in the small groups and they are constantly trying to “raise the bar ”. They use the ESPN method - Encourage, Scripture, Prayer, and Next Step — to guide the small groups . There are currently 300 small groups in the Montgomery area, and that number is down due to a temporary problem of finding group leaders . Groups Church of the Highlands are encouraged to have around 10 members . The small groups They have a strong culture of is a lot of accountability and are not set up to be Bible prayer and two seasons of each encouragement for growth . study classes . They are “free year are especially devoted to Jon said, “Everything happens market”, meaning the groups daily prayer . COTH has 21 days in small groups ”. They actually do fun things; small groups of fasting and prayer at the have more people coming to are relationship based and not beginning of the year . Many small groups than they have who curriculum based . If someone members meet at the building attend the weekend services . comes to the leadership and says, at 6 a .m . on weekdays and 9 Small groups are done by “Let’s have a prison ministry,” a .m . on Saturdays for three semesters, although there is a then a small group is formed to weeks for prayer . These prayer set up the program . A budget times are very much what most is set by the church, and other of us once knew as “mid-week issues, like transportation, are prayer services,” only with more considered . But the work is done emphasis on prayer . Besides by a small group . the Dream Team and the focus When asked “what can on prayer, the third reason Vaughn Park learn?” Jon for their growth is Leadership mentioned that when he was Development . here 19 years ago, he worked When asked about the vision on a mission statement for the of the church, Jon reported that congregation . Before coming to it has 4 steps; 1) Know God and talk to us, he went on the website be saved 2) Gain freedom from and found the mission statement past mistakes 3) Discover their to still be almost the exact same purpose in the kingdom and 4) wording . We assured Jon that Make a difference . These four there is a group working on that . steps make up the growth track Jon emphasized that their main and after every service, members goal is to move people into small complete a survey card which groups where they can be more reports where they are on the For Church of the Highlands, the involved and held accountable growth track . Leaders evaluate vision statement also provides for their growth . the cards and help determine a roadmap for each members’ when a step is completed . There “growth track.”

37 Summary churches of a different tradition . to work together and even more Each of these interviews was Every interview touched on reluctance to allow a church enlightening and much more this, as well as a comment from family with a different name was shared than what is reported Dr . Mike Williams at Faulkner “under our tent ”. here . We appreciate the leaders University . Williams shared While it is obvious that God who gave us their time, thoughts, many great thoughts regarding does not intend for Vaughn and advice . We believe it is the opportunities for building Park to replicate any of these important for our next minister bridges to span racial divides churches, we believe there are to see the broader church culture in a community with a rich civil important messages for us and in Montgomery beyond our own rights history . One of his most we desire to hear God speaking family . powerful observations was through churches that are Several themes emerged in regarding a prayer breakfast held touching and changing lives . these interviews: the members on the Faulkner campus . Mayor We believe by assessing the actively doing ministry work, Strange had asked Faulkner strengths of these other area the small groups which are key to invite area ministers to pray churches, we can better examine to engaging individuals, the and seek ways to turn the tide ourselves at Vaughn Park and importance of racial diversity and on community violence . When discern areas that could use reconciliation, and the need for a this prayer breakfast was held, more attention . By honing our clear vision that the church family sadly not a single minister from existing strengths and giving rallies behind . an area Church of Christ was in more attention to areas that Additionally, we heard a attendance . While there may are lacking, we at Vaughn Park recurring theme of unnecessary be logistical or communication can become the best version of division over the years among problems that contributed, ourselves and do great things for the Churches of Christ as well as we have to acknowledge a God’s kingdom . a reluctance to work with other reluctance of Churches of Christ

Under the guidance of President Dr. Mike Williams, Faulkner University is leading efforts to build bridges in the community.

38 Minister Search Committee Mike Vinson, Chair John Tyson, Vice Chair LaVera Brown, Secretary

Subcommittees Community Assessment Kingdom Assessment Brittany Gardner – Chair Carrie Lynne Cook – Co-Chair Lisa Garrett Roxy Wishum – Co-Chair Lisa Bailey Judy Brown Karen Highland Lisa Garrett Roxy Wishum Brittany Gardner

Congregational Assessment PR/Communication Herman Hedgspeth – Co-Chair Jeff Helms – Chair Erin Bullington – Co-Chair Judy Brown Roxy Wishum Carrie Lynne Cook Baron Goins Patrick Gregory

History Prayer Karen Highland – Chair Baron Goins – Chair Herman Hedgspeth Erin Bullington Erin Bullington Herman Hedgspeth John Tyson John Tyson

Technology Patrick Gregory – Chair Lisa Bailey Jeff Helms

39 3800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 • (334) 272-2665 • VaughnPark.com