tbc Building for Hope

Wise Words for Churches in Transition

We are in a moment of big transition at Tabernacle, one that invites deep discernment about who we are, where God is calling us, and how we navigate the challenges and opportunities in this chapter of ministry together.

We’re grateful for the wisdom of our friend Mark Tidsworth, founder of Pinnacle Leadership Associates, who has spent decades walking with congregations through similar seasons of redevelopment and renewal.

In his recent reflection, Five Initiators of Congregational Redevelopment, Mark names five dynamics that often surface when a church is on the threshold of transformation. His words are honest, hopeful, and deeply resonant for communities like ours. You can find the original post and more resources from Mark and his team at Pinnacle Leadership Associates.

Five Initiators of Congregational Redevelopment

Nov 11, 2025

by Rev. Mark E. Tidsworth, Founder and Team Leader of Pinnacle Leadership Associates

“If you want to build a ship, don’t summon people to buy wood, prepare tools, distribute jobs, and organize the work, rather teach people the yearning for the wide, boundless ocean.” — Antoine de Saint-Exupery, quoted by Alan Hirsch in The Forgotten Ways: Reactivating The Missional Church, 2006.

I was talking with a minister whose daughter is a teacher in one of the schools taken over by the state due to its poor performance. A problem-solver, specialist principal was sent in to reform this school. This principal stayed a few years and then moved on. As we coach clergy and consult with congregations, we are finding many who are in similar circumstances to this school and its specialist principal. Unexpectedly, most pastors find themselves in redevelopment ministry contexts. 

When redevelopment of a congregation is needed, how do we lead? Given the parable of the Sower and the Seed, we are not responsible for the growth of God’s kingdom. Instead, we are responsible for cultivating the soil and sowing the seed — still a substantial task. What nutrients are needed in the soil? What weather patterns and conditions are needed for the seed to grow? When renewal and redevelopment of a congregation happens, what are the ingredients in the mix? 

Crisis. I wish this were not so. It appears that some level of crisis is a necessary ingredient in the soil for renewal to happen. Typical forms of crisis include conflict, after which mass exodus occurs, threatening the critical mass of the congregation. Finances can drop enough to threaten the employment of staff persons. Sometimes, even theological differences can drive congregational demise (though this is more rare than one might expect). These, and others, lead to congregational crises with fear and pain involved. As we work with congregations in many places, we observe that some level of crisis is needed to wake them to their need for renewal and redevelopment. Threats to survival, along with substantial fear, have a way of waking us to reality.

Acceptance. The first response organizations make when a crisis occurs and they are ready to get back on track is to try harder with what has worked before… improve the quality, work harder at what we do, strengthen our programs and people. These are well-intentioned efforts, and are effective, when your model is viable. When adaptive change is needed (when the model itself is no longer viable), then these efforts inevitably produce increased frustration. Perhaps this is a valley congregations must travel. Eventually they must realize that it’s the model itself, and become willing to accept that church-like-the-1950s will not happen again.

“Until three-quarters of your formal and informal leadership cadre is ‘honestly convinced that business-as-usual is totally unacceptable,’ your organization’s concerted effort to change is not ready to be launched.” — John Kotter, “Leading Change: Why Transformation Efforts Fail,” Harvard Business Review (March-April, 1995)

Compelling and Captivating Story. Fortunately we have one — the gospel of Jesus Christ. Congregations who engage in redevelopment must first rediscover their story. Do they have something to share? Do they have something the world needs? Is this story out of which they live captivating and compelling? If not, then the redevelopment work will be too difficult. If so, they have discovered the source of life. If so, they want to share this good news and engage in activities that bring wholeness to the world. They want to join God on mission in the world out of their gratitude for God’s presence in their lives. They want to build ships because they yearn for the wide, boundless ocean.

Commitment to Renewal and Redevelopment. Some congregations decide to close. When they can do this with dignity, they can bless their journey. Others though, redevelop. This is the “boot camp” season of congregational life. This is the time when people roll up their sleeves and make a go of it. To do this, commitment has to be high. Like John Kotter says in the previous quote, the pastor, church staff, and congregational leaders have to actively commit to renewing and redeveloping the congregation. There will be spiritual and emotional highs… and lows. So the commitment has to be there to sustain them through boot camp.

Urgency. It’s interesting to observe what drives urgency for the churches who redevelop. Often the driving factors don’t appear very “spiritual.” The congregation may be driven by the awareness they are dropping below a critical mass to sustain their facilities, staff, and programs (institutional fears). If this is where they are, and it motivates them to do ministry, then at least it’s a way to begin moving. When they do make progress, often they discover more sustaining and life giving motivation. In order to do the necessary renewal and redevelopment work, they have to be compelled by their sense of urgency to accomplish the mission.

Finding yourself in a renewal or redevelopment ministry? You are in good company these days. Fortunately, we are in luck. God specializes in renewal, through Christ.

tbc Community Ministry, Worship & Fellowship

CBF Ministries Council Grant empowers Tabernacle Baptist Church to overcome language barriers

The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship recently featured our church and the simple question we have been working to answer. How do we make sure neighbors who speak different languages feel fully seen and included at the Saturday breakfast and pantry, and in our wider life together

Thanks to a CBF Ministries Council grant, we are building better bridges. From everyday communication to moments of worship and care, we are discovering new ways to belong to one another.

Read the full story from CBF to see how this work is taking shape and how you can be part of it.

Beyond Words: CBF Ministries Council Grant empowers Tabernacle Baptist Church to overcome language barriers

October 28, 2025

By Kristen Thomason 

Saturdays are special at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Richmond, Va. There, over 40 volunteers prepare breakfast for those in the community who’ve come to shop at the church’s food pantry and clothing closet. As more residents who did not speak English began visiting Tabernacle on Saturdays, volunteers struggled to create the intentional relationships central to the Community Ministry program.  

“Language should never be a barrier to belonging,” said April Kennedy, Tabernacle’s Minister of Abundant Community. Convinced nothing should impede the church’s ability to build relationship with their neighbors, Kennedy reached out to the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship for help.  

When Tabernacle Baptist revamped its food pantry six years ago, they shifted to a choice-based system to better honor the dignity of their guests. The communal breakfast beforehand is an opportunity for members of the community to gather, connect and build relationships. “Around breakfast tables, they check in on each other’s families, share items carefully chosen for a friend, offer rides and even pick up food for those who cannot make it,” said Kennedy. “There is no ‘us’ and ‘them’ on Saturday mornings—only neighbors, each contributing to the shared life of our pantry.”  

The church has taken steps to make its Community Ministry program more accessible by creating forms in Spanish for the 28 percent of guests who come from Spanish speaking households. Volunteers have also made the effort to learn greetings in several additional languages. However, this is not enough to cultivate an environment where guests feel welcomed and included. “Language is more than words. It is connection, dignity and the ability to fully participate in a shared community.” With only a few bilingual volunteers and mobile phone translation apps proving inadequate, the burden of communication was unfairly falling on those most seeking resources and connection.  

To better facilitate communication and foster relationships on Saturday mornings, Tabernacle Baptist applied for a grant from the CBF Ministries Council to buy translation devices. With the $1,605.79 grant they received, the church will be able to purchase several devices and position them at key places on Saturday mornings. One device will be placed at the check in area to ensure guests have accurate information. Another will be available to volunteers in the food pantry to help them answer questions about dietary requirements and food preferences. Kennedy also plans to have a translation device in the communal breakfast area to encourage conversation. “I would also love to eventually invite neighbors into using the translation devices with each other.” 

The devices will eventually help shift conversations from mere transactional exchanges to something more meaningful. “Language inclusion fosters deeper relationships. When people are understood in their own language, they are more likely to share their stories, express their needs and offer their own gifts to the community.” Kennedy is hopeful that through these relationships, the food pantry will grow from a service provided by the church into a community of mutual care.  

Kennedy also wants to encourage other churches facing similar challenges not to give up, and to do whatever is necessary to remove barriers like language differences, even if those early attempts are awkward. “Don’t be afraid to fumble a bit— there’s a sweetness to the grace that is offered by neighbors as they both come, without all the skills needed, and work together to understand each other.”  

tbc Building for Hope

BUILDING FOR HOPE UPDATE

We are so grateful to those of you who have completed the ISpy Activity!  We learned of so many things that most of us walk by everyday without noticing.  We hope you enjoyed doing it.  We’re going to continue to make that opportunity available, and new input would be greatly appreciated.  We have also met with many folks in our community and experts in their fields as we explore what could be next in the life of the church. 

Members of the team also participated in an off-site exploration with other churches where we learned what other tools have been used and helpful in their own exploration.  We’ve been encouraged to think bigger.  The Building Hope Team is going to be meeting biweekly through the end of the year. Stay tuned for a congregation-wide meeting after worship where we’ll report what we’re learning, share some thoughts, and gather feedback.

tbc Staff, Worship & Fellowship

Celebrating a Call: April Kennedy’s Ordination Service on Sept. 13

The Deacon Board is delighted to share that the Ordination Council has unanimously affirmed April Kennedy’s calling to vocational ministry. This decision came after a life-giving conversation on August 13 with a gathering of Tabernacle members, local clergy, and trusted voices from the wider Tabernacle community.  The depth and honesty of April’s sharing:  her story of faith, her call to ministry, and her openness to life-long learning, created sacred space for discernment and affirmation. 

Now we invite the entire Church to gather in worship and gratitude. April’s Ordination Service will be held on Saturday, September 13 at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary and in the Virtual Acre. A reception will follow. All are welcome!

We give thanks for the Spirit’s movement in our midst, for April’s ministry, and for the hope and possibility that lie ahead for Tabernacle and the Church Universal. This is a day for celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to the work God is doing among us.

tbc Worship & Fellowship

Will You Help Lead Us?

As we step into a new season of worship, we’re inviting you to help shape what comes next.

We’re navigating a meaningful time of transition in our worship life, and now more than ever, we’re leaning on the gifts of our whole church family. Whether you’ve helped lead worship before or you’re open to trying something new, we’d love for you to consider stepping in.

Scripture readers, prayer leaders, singers, instrumentalists, testimony-givers—there’s room for all kinds of voices. If you’re willing to give it a try, we promise to support, guide, and walk alongside you every step of the way.

It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence, growth, and faithfulness.

Let’s do this together.

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tbc Church Business, Reports and Documents

Emergency Operations Plan

The Buildings and Grounds Committee is pleased to introduce our new Church Emergency Operations Plan, which was developed to help our church respond effectively and calmly in the event of an emergency. This plan outlines procedures for various situations, including medical incidents, severe weather, fire, and other potential risks.

We encourage all members, volunteers, and staff to review the plan and become familiar with the key steps. The Committee will be hosting training sessions in the fall for staff, leader, and members of the congregation to better prepare ourselves for emergencies. 

If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions regarding the Emergency Operations Plan, please talk with Kyle Kennedy or email him at Kyle@kyleandapril.com.

Click Here for a copy of the Plan.

tbc Life of the Community, Staff, Worship & Fellowship

Judy Fiske Retirement Transition – Congregational Q&A

A Word of Gratitude and Grace

This is a sacred season in the life of our church—one filled with gratitude, memory, and the faithful work of transition. While we have walked with others through retirement before, we have never experienced a transition quite like this—Judy Fiske retiring after 45 years of continuous ministry within the life of Tabernacle. That reality calls for deep care, deliberate attention, and shared grace.

First and foremost, we are grateful for Judy—for her decades of faithful, life-giving ministry, and for the humility and strength with which she is walking this transition. We also extend our deep gratitude to Judy’s family, who have walked alongside her and made sacrifices so that she could serve, lead, and thrive in ministry here for so many years.

We are also deeply thankful for the staff, the Personnel Committee, the Deacons, the many individuals who serve within the music ministry, and the countless others who have helped guide this process in quiet, faithful ways. And we are grateful for you—the congregation—for your flexibility, support, and commitment to this community.

Let’s continue to move forward in trust—trust in God, trust in one another, and trust in the unfolding future that awaits us. This is a moment to listen well, to show up generously, and to extend the same grace we’ve received. Together, we make the road by walking—and we do so as a people shaped by love, memory, and hope.

When Will Judy Retire from Staff?

Judy’s final day as a staff member will be Sunday, June 15. That morning, we will gather for worship as usual, followed by a church-wide celebration and reception in recognition of her 45 years of ministry.

We are indebted to Terry and Nathan, along with others, for their leadership in planning this celebration on behalf of the congregation.

After June 15, Judy’s staff email and Basecamp account will be deactivated as part of a healthy and respectful staff transition. We encourage you to remain in touch by using her personal email or phone number.

Why Is Judy Stepping Away This Summer, and What Will Her Reentry into Church Life Look Like?

With Judy’s staff role concluding on June 15, we have committed together to a 90-day period of intentional space (June 15–September 15). During this time, Judy will step back from participating in worship, attending church events, and engaging in the structured rhythms of church life.

This decision wasn’t made lightly. It reflects a shared desire—for Judy, for staff and church leaders, and for the congregation—to move through this transition with intention and grace. After 45 years of faithful, life-giving, and deeply rooted ministry, Judy’s role has become inseparable from the day-to-day fabric of Tabernacle. This pause is a necessary invitation to everyone involved—to acknowledge what has been, and to begin making room for what’s next.

Rather than trying to hold onto familiar patterns, we’re choosing to create space. This gives Judy a chance to breathe, reflect, and rest. It also allows the staff and church leaders to settle into new rhythms, and the congregation to begin embracing this significant shift in identity and practice.

Importantly, stepping back from church life does not mean stepping back from friendship and community. Judy has been part of this congregation for decades, and many of her closest relationships are with people in this church. It’s entirely natural—and welcomed—that she may continue connecting personally with friends over the summer. She is also looking forward to some well-earned freedom and rest—worshiping with her husband, Eric, at First English Lutheran Church, spending time worshipping with other friends throughout Richmond, and simply having the ability to choose how to spend a Sunday morning—something she hasn’t had in all of her adult life.

While Judy will not be participating in worship or formal church life over the summer, she will have access to the building and the organ for private practice. This access supports her ongoing musicianship and respects the deep connection she holds with the instrument. These moments will be personal and not connected to any public or staff responsibilities. They are also in keeping with the spirit of the 90-day period of intentional space.

In September, Judy will reenter church life first as a fellow worshiper—taking her place in the pews and worshiping alongside others. From there, she and church leaders will thoughtfully discern what further involvement might look like, including musical leadership or service in new ways.

There may also be rare and meaningful moments during the summer—such as baptisms or ordinations—where Judy’s presence may feel appropriate and welcomed. Any such invitations will be approached with great care and in full alignment with the spirit of this transition.

Key points:

  • Judy will not participate in worship, events, or structured service roles during the summer (June 15–Sept 15).
  • The 90-day period is a deliberate pause that honors both the depth of her ministry and the need for healthy transition.
  • This pause does not exclude personal connection—Judy may continue informal time with friends in the congregation.
  • She looks forward to worshiping with Eric at First English Lutheran, connecting and worshipping with friends around Richmond, and simply having the freedom to choose how to spend a Sunday.
  • In the fall, Judy will return first as a fellow worshiper; additional involvement will emerge through shared discernment.

What Does the Title ‘Organist Emerita’ Mean, and Will Judy Play the Organ Again?

The Deacons have unanimously affirmed the decision to honor Judy with the title Organist Emerita, a permanent and honorary designation offered in deep gratitude for her 45 years of faithful, creative, and spiritually grounded leadership. The title reflects the congregation’s enduring appreciation for the role Judy has played in shaping the worship life of Tabernacle Baptist Church.

This is not a staff position and does not carry expectations related to responsibilities, compensation, or weekly participation. Rather, it is a visible and lasting tribute to Judy’s legacy and continued presence within the church community.

The Deacons will formally present this honor on behalf of the congregation during the worship service or luncheon on June 15. Judy’s name and honorary title will also appear in places where staff names are typically listed—such as the church bulletin, website, and other communications—as an ongoing public expression of appreciation.

Looking ahead, Judy and church leaders will enter into a mutual dialogue this fall about the possibility of her serving in a part-time or contractual organist role. That conversation will unfold with care and clarity, shaped by the needs of the congregation and Judy’s own sense of calling. It is important to note that Judy will first return in the fall simply as a fellow worshiper, reentering church life gently and without expectations.

Key points:

  • The Deacons have unanimously approved honoring Judy as Organist Emerita.
  • The title is permanent and honorary, not a continuation of staff responsibilities.
  • It will be formally presented during the worship service or luncheon on June 15.
  • Judy’s title will appear in the church bulletin, website, and other formal communications.
  • A mutual dialogue between Judy and church leaders will begin this fall regarding any future organist role.
  • Judy will first return to church life as a fellow worshiper, without formal responsibilities.

Who Will Plan Worship and Lead Music Following Judy’s Retirement?

Beginning June 16, Pastor Sterling Severns will take primary responsibility for worship planning, at the request of the Deacons. He will work in collaboration with a team of staff and congregants to shape meaningful, theologically grounded worship for the months ahead.

Judy will no longer be involved in worship planning after June 15. Her contributions in this area have shaped the spiritual life of Tabernacle in lasting ways. We are deeply grateful for her years of pastoral musicianship and faithful preparation.

The worship team recognizes that this next chapter is one of discernment and adaptability. While the organ will not be used every Sunday, it will continue to be a valued part of our worship life—used less frequently in the summer, and more regularly in the fall.

The church is also exploring the possibility of contracted musicians to support worship. These conversations are ongoing and are rooted in care for spiritual depth, relational health, and financial sustainability.

Key points:

  • Sterling Severns will lead worship planning, in collaboration with staff and congregants.
  • Judy will no longer plan worship after June 15.
  • Worship will continue to grow through creativity, prayer, and shared leadership.
  • Organ music will remain a part of our worship life—less frequent in summer, more regular in fall.
  • The use of contracted musicians will require thoughtful review.

What Is Judy Focused on During Her Final Month on Staff?

In this final month, Judy is focusing on the significant and necessary task of preparing her materials for transition. After decades of ministry, she has gathered a substantial collection of worship resources, books, music, and discipleship materials. These have long supported the life of the church.

  • A staging space in the former youth room is being used to sort these items. Organ music is being moved into a set of filing cabinets near the choir loft. Several spaces are being cleared so they can be cleaned and refreshed, including:
  • The choir loft
  • The front pews of the sanctuary
  • Judy’s office
  • The former music library, which the youth will begin using as their meeting space in June
  • In the choir room, Judy’s personal items will be moved to the staging room prior to departure, while materials that are already organized—such as those under the risers and on the bookshelves—will remain in place and be reviewed at a later time as part of the church’s broader facilities discernment process.
  • Other small storage areas throughout the building
  • Seeing familiar spaces cleared out offers an emotional and visual cue—reminding us that Judy’s transition is real and significant. This makes room for gentler expectations around her return and helps us all move forward with grace.
  • All clearing and organizing that needs to happen before Judy’s departure will take place between now and June 15. This includes removing materials from several key spaces and relocating items into the staging room. Once Judy retires from staff, she will not continue this work over the summer. The contents of the staging room and remaining materials in the choir room will be left as they are until after the 90-day period of intentional space, at which point Judy will resume sorting and decision-making in those areas—beginning after September 15.

Key points:

  • Judy is sorting worship, music, and discipleship materials in preparation for retirement.
  • A staging room is being used; organ music is moving to filing cabinets.
  • Several church spaces are being cleared to support this transition.
  • In the choir room, personal items will be addressed; other organized materials may remain.
  • The work of gathering and placing items in the staging room will be completed by June 15.
  • Judy will not work on this during the summer, but will resume after Sept. 15.
  • Volunteers are needed—with and under Judy’s guidance.

What Is Judy’s Role in Music Camp or Clue Camp This Year?

As part of her transition, Judy will not be attending Music and Worship Arts Camp at Eagle Eyrie or Clue Camp in New York City this summer.  She has offered some behind-the-scenes support for Music Camp, including supplies and encouragement.

We’re grateful for the many members of the congregation who are stepping into leadership and helping continue these important ministries.

Key points:

  • Judy is not attending Music Camp or Clue Camp this summer.
  • She has offered behind-the-scenes support for Music Camp.
  • We’re grateful to those leading and continuing these ministries.

How Can I Help During This Transition?

There are many ways you can support Judy, the staff, and the church during this important season. With a great deal to do in the next month, your help is both needed and deeply appreciated.

Here are a few meaningful ways to get involved:

  • Volunteer to help move and organize music, books, and personal items before June 15.
  • Let Nathan and Terry know if you’re available to help with the June 15 retirement celebration.
  • Offer encouragement to Judy and others walking closely with her during this transition.
  • Pray for wisdom, tenderness, and spiritual clarity for all involved.
  • Be present on June 15 as we celebrate and give thanks together.
  • Hold space for one another—this is a tender time, and your grace matters.