What to Expect

What does this actually look like for my church?

Honest answers to the questions every careful pastor asks before saying yes. No surprises, no fine print.

How long does it take?

EMPOWER is not a six-week program or a one-weekend retreat. The whole journey, Step 1 through Step 5, typically unfolds over 12 to 18 months, depending on the church’s pace and the pastor’s calendar. Some churches move faster. Some need more time. Either is fine.

Rough phase timing:

  • Step 1: Preliminary — 4 to 6 weeks
  • Step 2: Power — 2 to 3 months
  • Step 3: Pastor — continues throughout the journey and beyond
  • Step 4: Purpose — 2 to 3 months
  • Step 5: Process — the long obedience; ongoing

The relationship with your encourager outlasts the formal program.

How often will we meet?

  • 1:1 pastor coaching: typically every two weeks, usually by Zoom, occasionally in person.
  • In-person visits with your encourager: at least once per quarter, often more.
  • Whole-church studies and team gatherings: scheduled in cooperation with you and your existing church calendar.

These rhythms are starting points, not rules. Pastors and encouragers work out a cadence that fits both calendars, and it often shifts across seasons of ministry.

What does it cost?

Nothing. EMPOWER is fully funded through a grant from the Lilly Foundation, administered through Samford University and the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions. There is no cost to the participating church, the pastor, or the congregation. We do not collect fees, ask for donations, or charge for materials.

If books or workbooks are needed and a church can’t afford them, we will do what we can to help fund those too.

Who is my encourager?

Each pastor is matched with a Church Revitalization Coach (we use the word “encourager” because that’s what we are) based on geography. Each encourager covers one of the ALSBOM districts. They are typically AMS leaders, retired pastors, or coaches with significant ministry experience and a heart for rural church health.

See: Meet Your Encourager →

What is the church being asked to commit to?

  • The pastor commits to the 1:1 coaching relationship and to leading the whole-church study.
  • A small team of trusted leaders (usually 4 to 8 people) commits to walking through the process with the pastor.
  • The congregation is invited into the prayer initiatives and whole-church study at the appropriate times.

We don’t ask the church to vote on EMPOWER. We don’t ask for a public announcement up front. The early steps happen quietly with the pastor and core leaders.

What happens if my church isn’t a fit?

That’s fine. The Preliminary phase exists exactly so both sides can find out. There is no obligation to continue, and no awkward exit if you decide EMPOWER isn’t the right fit for your church’s season.

Still have questions?

A confidential conversation is the easiest way to find out.

Start a Conversation