An Overview of FGK
Congregations, elders, and preachers call upon us when they find themselves facing various kinds of problems that lead to conflicts within the church. They are learning about us through other churches, preachers, websites, and articles in The Restoration Herald.
FGK personnel go into a church upon their invitation and approval. We conduct church-wide interviews of all willing members. We then present our recommendations to the church, which decides whether to accept or reject our help. When they accept, they enter into a contract with us regarding the implementation of the recommendations, and agreeing to pay our expenses. At the present time we do not charge a fee. At any time, either party may withdraw from the contract by notifying the other party of the decision to do so. At the conclusion of our work with them, we ask the congregation to take up a love offering for our ministry.
Working with a church usually takes about six months. Upon their acceptance of our recommendations, we put together a Steering Committee from men of the church and selected by the church, and a Mentoring Team composed of preachers and/or elders within the general vicinity (50 miles) of the church. These two groups meet monthly. During our visits with the congregation we provide instruction and training for the congregation and for the leadership. We have weekly contact with the Steering Committee. When needed, we work with the congregation to help them find an interim minister.
When all recommendations have been completed or arranged, we step away but remain available to help further if called upon.
All FGK personnel are acutely aware of, and in total agreement with, the local autonomy of each congregation.
We do not "take over the church," but are merely there as brothers who are willing to help. A written explanation of our understanding of autonomy is available upon request.
