FAITHFULLY FORWARD FOCUS GROUPS

Broadmoor Executive Committee: Faithfully Forward Results and Strategic Directions

In response to the various challenges Broadmoor has faced—ranging from the impacts of COVID-19 to two fires and disaffiliation concerns—the Broadmoor Executive Committee was established in September 2023. Our aim was to chart a path forward, given that key committees like Trustees, Finance, Parish Staff Relations, and Church Council were not fully functional. After careful deliberation, we chose to maintain the current four-committee structure. Instead of restructuring, we focused on revitalizing our mission by developing a strategic plan that reflects the congregation’s collective input and renewed sense of purpose.

Faithfully Forward Initiative: A Community-Driven Process

The Faithfully Forward initiative engaged 88 Broadmoor congregants across seven focus groups in June and July 2023. During these sessions, participants explored five key ministry areas—Prayers, Presence, Gifts, Service, and Witness. The insights gathered from over 30 pages of feedback reveal Broadmoor’s strengths, as well as opportunities for growth, forming the foundation for our ongoing strategic planning process. Below, we present a consolidated overview of the themes and recommendations that emerged.

1. Prayer: The Spiritual Backbone of Our Community

Broadmoor members deeply value both collective and personal prayer, recognizing its role in fostering spiritual growth and unity during times of crisis. Participants recounted how healing prayer services, the churchwide prayer chain, and guided prayers led by Pastor Donnie, created a profound sense of connection, particularly during difficult periods such as the 2016 shootings and floods. This prayerful, resilient spirit is a testament to Broadmoor’s strength as a faith community.

• • Suggestions for Growth:
    Congregants expressed a desire for expanding prayer opportunities, such as introducing silent or meditative prayer moments during worship. There was also interest in creating more physical and digital spaces dedicated to prayer, including prayer walks, labyrinths, and online prayer groups. These additions would provide broader access and encourage deeper spiritual practices within the congregation.

2. Presence: Building a Welcoming and Inclusive Atmosphere

The discussions around presence highlighted Broadmoor’s ability to create a welcoming environment where members feel a strong sense of belonging. Many participants shared personal experiences of being warmly embraced through small group ministries, choir participation, and Red Stick Together meals. These programs, along with family-friendly events like Christmas Eve services, are seen as essential in strengthening community ties.

• • Areas for Development:
    Several congregants expressed the need for better integration across different worship styles, specifically bridging the gap between Traditional and Casual services. Suggestions included hosting joint worship services and creating shared fellowship events to foster unity and inclusiveness across the congregation.

3. Gifts: Cultivating a Culture of Generosity

Broadmoor’s commitment to generosity, both financial and non-financial, was a common thread throughout the feedback. Congregants praised initiatives such as the Beauty from the Ashes Campaign and the contributions supporting Southeast Ministries and Red Stick Together. These efforts were seen as critical to fulfilling Broadmoor’s mission and outreach.

• • Future Opportunities:
    Participants recommended further developing a culture of generosity through targeted stewardship education and increased transparency in financial matters. Specific suggestions included creating more visibility for giving initiatives and offering new ways to contribute, such as automated payments or special offerings during key church events.

4. Service: Engaging the Broader Community

Service has always been a cornerstone of Broadmoor’s identity. Participants shared how their involvement in projects like Walk to Emmaus, Habitat for Humanity, and local disaster relief efforts deepened their faith and reinforced their commitment to the community. Red Stick Together, in particular, was recognized for providing consistent support to those in need.

• • Expanding Participation:
    There is a strong desire to involve more members in planning and executing these service projects. Congregants suggested increasing opportunities for family and youth participation, such as through intergenerational mission trips and local community events. By doing so, we can inspire a new generation to embrace the spirit of service.

5. Witness: Sharing Our Faith Boldly and Authentically

The practice of witnessing through personal stories and public expressions of faith is seen as integral to Broadmoor’s mission. Participants emphasized the importance of shared testimonies and faith experiences in building a culture of witness within the church. Events like Beats & Bites and the Fall Festival were celebrated as successful outreach opportunities that brought the broader Baton Rouge community together.

• • Challenges and Opportunities:
    Congregants noted that Broadmoor’s witness could be further enhanced by expanding digital outreach and social media engagement. Additionally, training more members to confidently share their faith in personal and public settings would increase the impact of our witness beyond the church walls.

Strategic Directions and Next Steps

With the feedback and insights gathered from our community, the Executive Committee will now focus on developing a comprehensive strategic plan, set to be completed by March 2025. This plan will guide us in addressing the identified areas for growth, ensuring that Broadmoor continues to thrive as a beacon of faith, service, and community engagement.