1. TRIENNIAL VISITS Presbytery of Santa Fe 2015

2. WHY HAVE TRIENNIAL VISITS? Excellent opportunity to build relationships between congregation and PCUSA Each congregation is doing something valuable for its members and pleasing to God. An opportunity to make it an occasion for Pastoral affirmation and appreciation. When trust has been established, any issues or concerns can be addressed. Information flows both ways.

3. Triennial Visit Purposes: Affirm and support good ministry Connect the Session with resources of Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly Ask questions and share information Raise the vision of church leaders Encourage the church leaders Deal with any problems that might exist

4. PLANNING THE VISIT

5. CONFIDENTIALITY This has been discussed here before - but it is essential that the visiting team understand to whom the reports will go and how referrals will be handled. The Session and Teaching Elder(s)must know what happens if serious problems are uncovered.

6. PROVIDING EXPECTATIONS TO CHURCHES: Celebrate the ministry of the congregation Sharing faith Information going both ways Deal with special concerns Invitation to participate in life and ministry of Presbytery Inspiration and encouragement Interpretation of mission of PCUSA Gathering information for presbytery planning Invitation to strategic planning for their ministry Strengthening the Pastoral relationship

7. HOW ARE WE TRAINED? Training in groups such as this presentation, reading and study of the Handbook, and conversations with those experienced with Triennial Visits.

8. USEFUL SKILLS: Listening carefully Understanding appreciative inquiry Knowing resources of the Presbytery Basic consultation skills Ministry assessment Conflict management Small church dynamics Corporate church dynamics Life cycles of Pastoral relationships and congregational life Recognizing conflict both open and hidden Experiences on previous visits

9. PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER Letters to churches requesting dates for visit Selection of the date and the Team Notify church of date and team and send questionnaires Appoint a Convener and person to take notes Study statistical reports and information from church Set a time to meet with Pastor(s) alone (Lunch, Dinner) Pray for Congregation, Pastor(s) and visitation team Make the visit an uplifting experience

10. COMPLETING THE VISIT Prepare the Report for COM Follow-up any referrals Follow-up letter to the Session (approved by COM) Prepare reports and letter promptly