Appreciative Inquiry Events Synopsis

Narrative for Church History Appreciative Inquiry Events

5/18/2026

Below is a general synopsis of congregant feedback from Appreciative Inquiry events held in April and May.

Describe a time when the congregation operated or performed really well. Why? There were several reoccurring themes for this question.

  1. Most people felt that the decade before COVID, roughly the time the Rev Angela Herrera was hired as the second minister, and Susan Peck was hired as the Music Director—the church experienced its best years under the Rev Christine Robinson. The church membership grew at a rapid rate, funds could be raised for renovations and building projects, children’s RE was strong, and people were engaged in all manner of activity at the church. Having multiple ministers (including interns) was important to people, as was its reputation as a teaching congregation. Quality sermons—across the board—also factored prominently in people’s memory.
  2. COVID put the brakes on continued growth. Indeed, the church experienced a significant decline post COVID, in almost every area.  Although people did believe that the church leadership did the best job that they could to virtually “keep the doors open.”
  3. The music program under Susan Peck was also voiced by many as a highlight unto itself. She brough a variety and depth to the music program that had not previously existed, and she drew many congregants into the many programs she started.  Many people reiterated her motto of “connection, not perfection” when speaking of their own involvement.
  4. Opportunities for connection were also a highlight for many people—including Family Promise, After School Tutoring—both long-standing programs in the congregation. The variety of opportunities to connect helped people develop that deeper sense of community they were seeking in a church community.
  5. The 75th Anniversary Celebration was cited on several occasions as illuminating that our congregation has been resilient over the years.
  6. When the topic arose—and it did not as a primary topic—most people felt that the sexual misconduct with Rev Bob was dealt with well and with transparency by the Board. That said, there was a significant break in ministerial trust from this incident.

What do you value most about this congregation?  Here are some of the recuring themes:

  1. People feel a sense of fellowship and community with other of compatible belief.
  2. Our church provides a positive message for adults and children.
  3. Our sermons are thoughtful and varied.
  4. There is a sense of welcome here.
  5. Our volunteers are enthusiastic.
  6. There is spiritual diversity. Our mural symbolizes our pluralistic faith.
  7. We value diversity, equity and inclusion.
  8. We have strong LGBTQ connections.
  9. We have many activities and social groups where people can connect on a deeper level.
  10. “We meet people where they are.”
  11. “The church is what we make it.”

What activities or ingredients are important here?

  1. Acceptance
  2. A good message from the pulpit.
  3. Doing good in the community/outreach (like the Food Pantry and Family Promise)

The following were observations people wanted to make to ensure we do better in the future:

  1. Build a stronger social justice council/umbrella where leadership is cohesive and supported.
  2. Build more interfaith connections with other more liberal faith groups in ABQ

What are our best features? 

  1. Our sanctuary is an open and mindful space. As are our grounds. Visuals matter.
  2. Opportunities for fellowship and connection/a variety of choices and voices.
  3. Inclusivity
  4. Music Program
  5. The church helps provide relevance to our daily lives.
  6. The church receives spiritual energy from all of us.
  7. “We belong here, too!” – POC. But, there’s room for improvement!

How has the congregation made a difference in your life?

The church provides a place where people feel less alone, and provides a moral compass and mindfulness for living, especially through inspirational sermons. It is a safe place to explore spirituality—or not! Provides a sense of community and being part of something bigger. It helps me develop as a person by examining a variety of different beliefs. Provides options for families and makes children feel special and cared for. The Beloved Community.