First Responders Initiative In-House Church Conflict Prevention and Management From This Point Forward in the Life of Your Church, Make the First Responses to Conflict the Right Responses!

The following article (posted online, July 2009) was published in the August 2009 issue of Church Solutions Magazine under the title, "Managing the Greatest Risk of All." Dr. Newberger argues the need for a safe and effective peacemaking process in every congregation. His "First Responders Initiative" (described below in the boxed article) is such a process. It helps a church become "conflict-competent" which, in turn, allows that church to build a more secure and stable future. (In just a few seconds the box will be filled-in).

Features and Benefits of the First Responders Initiative The Initiative fortifies bonds of love by resolving problems and reconciling relationships. It is a low maintenance program. Can be established by training as few as one or two people and typically no more than six. Though they know how the process works, for the most part, leaders are not involved. Conflict's burden, in significant measure, is removed from their shoulders. The process builds loyalty to the church. Members know that they can resolve their concerns and issues in a safe manner that has been pre-approved by church leaders. The Initiative will help sustain church growth. Research shows that “serious conflict is the number one predictor of congregational decline” and that “the strongest correlate of growth... was the presence or absence of conflict.” Ongoing telephone support and guidance for the program director is provided free of charge for six months! From This Point Forward in the Life of Your Church, Make the First Responses to Conflict the Right Responses!