EBA customizes the consultation process for the context and goals of the client. The on-site portion of the consultation is typically 3 days for churches with 150 - 450 in worship; 4 days for churches with 450 - 700 in worship; and 5 days for churches over 700 in worship (with additional days corresponding to larger size churches). Churches under 150 in worship can cluster the congregations together, so long as they are with an hour driving distance of one another and are willing to join together for training seminars.

The research prior to the on-site portion of the consultation usually takes 6 – 8 weeks. Churches in the USA should obtain demographic information from Missioninsite (We do that for you for a small additional fee). Churches outside the USA should compile demographic information from denominational, government, or other sources.

(Church planting, staffing, and multiple site consultations are often done in a day).

On-site consultations are usually extended over weekends and include:

Interviews:

Interviews with senior pastor, staff, board, and ministry team leaders; groups, mission partners, selected newcomers and church veterans, and others. These interviews reality test insights and fill in gaps of knowledge from the research. Interviews are scheduled during the day to fit the schedules of volunteers and staff. Ideally, earlier interviews are related to program development and worship; later interviews are related to administration, property, and finance.

Training Seminars:

Seminars address specific topics that are revealed through the research, and which are particularly relevant to positive change and growth. The consultant informs the church in advance concerning the topic and the leaders who should attend the seminar. Seminars are usually held in the evenings.

Worship Evaluation:

 The consultant observes all Sunday worship services (but does not necessarily preach). This is followed by a meeting with all worship and hospitality leaders to critique and debrief the Sunday morning experience.

Final Summation and Recommendations:

Sunday evening involves a presentation to the leaders and/or members summarizing insights into congregational life and mission, and outlining key strategic recommendations for the future. An extensive written report will be sent to the congregation following the dialogue of Sunday evening.

We intentionally schedule opportunities for the private prayer and reflection of the consultant during the schedule.

A planning team should develop the exact agenda in conversation with the consultant, and coordinate the on-site consultation. They will also be responsible for completing and collating the research prior to the on-site portion of the consultation.