CPAC Works and Here's Why

We just wrapped up Day 2 of our Church Planter's Assessment Center hosted by NewThing at CCC's Romeoville Campus.  I believe this is my fifth assessment, and once again I am amazed by how the process works.  It is a combination of simulation exercises, self-assessments, personality profiles, peer-evaluation, presentations, and more that leave those being assessed exhausted, stretched, but grateful for the opportunity to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  There are a lot of things that go into making this successful, but here are a few reasons it works:

1. Self Evaluation - How often do we set aside extended periods of time for reflection and evaluation?  Through the required prep work and the two-and-a-half days of interaction, CPAC provides the unique opportunity for an in-depth reflective self-evaluation.

2. Peer Evaluation - While much of CPAC is "simulation" over the course of the 3 days it does give your peers a rather honest look at your strengths and weaknesses while working in a relatively high pressure team environment.  Let's face it, it's seldom that we take the time to do in-depth peer evaluations.  CPAC provides the setting and format to make this work.

3. Written Report - All the information that is gleaned through the pre-work and during the 3 days is compiled and delivered to the person being assessed and the sponsoring church, individual, or organization.  This report provides a lasting record of learnings and insights that can be referenced again and again to continue to help in the development of the individual being assessed.

4. Faculty - Tom Jones, Brent Foulke, and Paige Matthews have assessed literally hundreds of candidates over the past ten years.  All three of them have been in the trenches in ministry and church-plants and continue to be students of church-planting.  Not only that, they have huge hearts for God and expanding His kingdom.  They truly want what is best for the kingdom and the people being assessed.

5. Sponsors - Most every person assessed through CPAC has a sponsoring church or organization.  These sponsors are responsible for providing follow-up based on the recommendations that emerge from the assessment center.  Sponsors have a huge stake in the process, they are recommending this person to be assessed and often provide the financial investment in order to make it happen.  It's in their best interest to see that the follow-up is complete.

So yea, I'm a big fan of assessment.  If you are considering anything close to church-planting, go through assessment.

Comments

[Tommy Bowman]

Jon, thanks so much for your input and encouragement. deep down, i really feel that you are the best looking man in church-planting, but I had to give the nod to Tom Jones on that one for the presentation. thanks again!!