Most need the active support of senior clergy and others in the congregation. We encourage congregations to build teams to integrate the assets into their congregation. Many congregations appear to struggle with systematic planning. Congregational leaders want simple, short, practical tools to help them apply and use the assets. A decision to form a network must come from congregational leaders who would be the core of that network and whose congregations will support network involvement.
Networks build slowly.
It likely takes at least two years for a network to become established, and it likely takes decades before it is fully functioning. Networks are built one person at a time. They are built through personal relationships that draw people to spend time with one another. Offering training, ongoing networking meetings, and other events provides a structure through which relationships form and commitments to the network can be solidified. Forming a network is much more effective if a local organization plays a convening and coordination role.