DUMC Forward
Discovery Phase Results
An Update on Our Strategic Planning Process
From Leamon Brice, Lay Leader & DUMC Forward Chair
Our world has changed significantly over the past five years, and Davidson UMC is evolving to meet these new realities. To ensure our church continues to grow and thrive, we embarked on a strategic planning process.
The Discovery Phase is now complete. Through a church-wide survey and 16 focus groups, we heard from our congregation about the strengths of our church and the areas where we can grow.
DUMC Forward: Vision & Strategy Update
Watch this video from Lay Leader Leamon Brice as he shares key insights from the Discovery Phase and outlines the next steps in our strategic planning journey.
Watch the DUMC Forward Presentation
Key Findings from the Discovery Phase
• A strong desire for church membership growth and increased age diversity.
• Recognition that DUMC is a welcoming place, but also a need to be even more intentional in our hospitality.
• A desire for more fellowship and small group opportunities to deepen connections.
• Strengthening of our Sunday School and Youth programs to nurture future generations.
The findings from this phase were presented to the Administrative Council on March 9, 2025.
Next Steps: The Discernment Phase
We are now moving into the Discernment Phase of our strategic planning process. A diverse group—including members of the Administrative Council, clergy, and congregation—will gather for a day-long retreat with Nathan Kirkpatrick from Saison Consulting.
With guidance from the Holy Spirit and your collective input, we will:
• Identify 3-5 internal priorities and 2-4 external priorities.
• Draft a vision for the future of DUMC.
• Present this vision to the Administrative Council for consensus before moving into strategy development.
How You Can Get Involved
• Pray for this process and for the leaders discerning our path forward.
• Stay engaged by following updates and participating in future discussions.
Together, we will shape the future of DUMC and continue to be a church that reflects God’s love and purpose in the world.
For any questions, please contact Leamon Brice, Lay Leader at layleader@davidsonumc.org.