1. Vestry Discernment in the Search Process
Discernment Tips
Vestry Discernment in the Search Process

2. What is Discernment?
“Discernment is a prayerful, informed, and intentional attempt to sort through voices and to get in touch with God’s Spirit at work… It is a mode of prayer that involves opening our entire selves to the working of the Holy Spirit. In group deliberations, discernment involves coming together with open hearts and open minds to seek God’s wisdom.” (From Grounded in God)

3. Foundation for Discernment
Identify the focus for discernment – frame the qualities of leadership for your future and qualities for “personality fit” with the congregation.
Identify a grounding principle for discernment: i.e. listening for God’s choice
Shed egos, agendas, assumptions, preconceived notions, prejudice, etc.

4. Foundation for Discernment
Root your discernment in Scripture
Become still and present in God’s presence
Let prayerful silence pervade
Listen, journal to the Holy Spirit
Share experiences of signs of God’s voice and presence – how God typically speaks

5. Discernment Discussion
Share information, impressions, ideas, strengths and weaknesses, possibilities, etc
Explore practical considerations
Provide for silence and reflective responses
Look for convergence and signs of God’s call
Await consensus
Rest in the decision

6. Signs of God’s Call Peace Joy
Temporary disorientation followed by calm
Comforting & tranquilizing tears
Sudden sense of clarity
Persistence
Convergence