TN59 Don't you dare change anything!

First published on this website in April 2011 and last updated in January 2023

Synopsis

When proposing a change in church (whether in buildings, routines or attitudes), we are all familiar with the OMDB brigade (Over My Dead Body). But some people oppose change for very good reasons, usually connected with their personality, background or present circumstances. The successful change-manager needs to be able to understand where people are coming from and then help them through what may well be a painful process.

The reasons given for opposing change in the examples described include:

• present stressful circumstances
• not understanding the reason for change
• no control over the decisions
• emotional involvement in the present state
• lack of trust in the leader

and five others.

So here are ten case studies. Put yourself in the shoes of Alf, Beryl, Callum, Debbie, Ewan, Fran, George, Helen, Iris and Jack and you will realise that their opposition is quite understandable. These notes are ideal for group use as there are questions to work through on each of the ten characters.

Comments received include: "Great examples. Worth thinking through and creating a checklist for your own church as to what needs to be included when managing change."

These notes were updated in January 2023 with minor amendments to text and layout.