I am writing to give context to some of the changes that are happening regarding staff. There are details related to human resources that will not be shared. However, I can offer some context regarding the processes and the trends going forward.

In response to several factors, we are “right-sizing” our staff and organization for a smaller church. Plymouth Church has fewer members and we are now at the place where a faithful, realistic response to years of a downward trajectory in financial giving must happen. In addition, we have not had consistent human resource (HR) management for the past several years, which has led to over-staffing in some areas and under-staffing in others.

In an effort to address these HR challenges, conversations regarding adjustment of hours, review of job descriptions, and other personnel matters are happening across staff. For years now, I have advocated that we maintain current positions, as well as for salary increases for many staff who were being paid less than standards in other nonprofit and faith organizations. Additionally, I have promoted cost of living increases over the years for staff and clergy, and recently brought on a human resources firm to assist with the evolving organizational landscape. Thus, our current need to “right-size” our staffing is challenging on multiple levels, including the very real sense of loss I personally have as we face the reality that the staffing models of old are simply not sustainable for Plymouth at this point on our journey.

As the head of staff, I honor the challenge of doing the necessary work required by our current circumstances, the loss and leaving of members in covenant, as well as the impending recession. My heart’s desire is for us to do ministry together in ways that heed the spirit’s call and that faithfully steward our resources.

There will be more conversations.

While this is by no means meant to fully respond to the grief and surprise regarding Dr. Wanda Griffith’s resignation, I will close this message with gratitude for her gracious spirit in the face of change and transition. I pray that as we move forward together, we can find such grace among us. -Rev. Dr. Kelle Brown