Leaders spend time in retreat at St. Methodios Center for teambuilding and strategic focus

Somerville, MA – The Dormition of the Virgin Mary parish in Somerville continues to build upon its commitment to renewal and growth through the Thriving Congregations Initiative (TCI). As one of the first four pilot congregations to embark on strategic planning, Dormition has spent the past year refining its vision and setting clear goals to strengthen its ministries.
Last weekend, the parish took the next step by hosting a retreat at the St. Methodios Retreat Center, where new and returning Parish Council and ministry leaders were introduced to the elements of the strategic plan and prepared to move into its execution phase. The retreat focused on:
A comprehensive review of the Strategic Plan, ensuring all leaders are aligned on its priorities and objectives.
Team-building exercises based on The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, fostering stronger collaboration.
Goal-setting for 2025, identifying immediate next steps for implementation.
Representing TCI, Fr. Theodore Barbas and Alex Cooley were blessed to join briefly via Zoom to share in the parish’s joy and offer their thanks and encouragement as Dormition moves forward with its plan.

Dormition’s progress highlights the transformative impact of strategic planning in parish life. As more communities consider this path, the Thriving Congregations Initiative continues to offer resources, coaching, and structured support to help parishes thrive.

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