Change! understanding the nature of change in an unpredictable world: an explorative study of the missiological, sociological and theological implications of organizational change, using Prestbury Methodist Church (PMC) as a case study.
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Date
2015
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Abstract
Much attention has been given to change initiatives on planned organizational change.
John Kotter, who is the foremost scholar on change theory, has developed a model of
sequential change steps and this was selected as the study’s theoretical framework. The
purpose of this study is to contribute to change theory. The nature of change was
explored offering insight into the generational and sociological gaps in society and the
barriers to change that are experienced. The theological reflection in chapter three
revealed a familiar story in which change is a theme that weaves through scripture. A
key interpretive theological element was the mission of God (Missio Dei) from which is
derived the missional nature of the people of God.
The foundation of this study is a case study of a local church in the midst of change. The
study sought to consider whether Kotter’s model could be applied to a church setting. In
pursuit of this, the research is located specifically within a church setting. The central
question of this approach was to begin an investigation into what the role, place and
nature of change is within a local church. The main source of data came by way of
literature, interviews and questionnaires.
The research drew conclusions which highlighted the important field of change theory.
The conclusion of the study reflects a church unable to anchor change within its
organizational culture, remaining largely separate from the community and resistant to
change. Grave questions regarding, identity, the need for change and the unwillingness
to do so were raised. It also raised questions as to the appropriate skills sets of a
successful leader in the midst of change.
Description
M. Th. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 2015.
Keywords
Church renewal--South Africa--KwaZulu-Natal--Doctrines., Methodist Church--South Africa--KwaZulu-Natal--Doctrines., Church and social problems., Theses--Theology.