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Congregational Wellness
Appreciative Inquiry – It Does the Heart Good!
Over the past several years, there has been a shift in how organizations, including churches, approach challenges. Instead of focusing solely on what is wrong—identifying struggles, limitations, or areas of decline—many are turning toward what is right. What does it look like for a congregation to thrive, to be spiritually healthy, and to be a place of renewal and mission?
One of the leading frameworks in this shift is Appreciative Inquiry (AI), a strengths-based approach to organizational change. Research shows that AI can have profound effects not only on the collective well-being of an organization but also on the physical and emotional health of individuals. When churches embrace positive change approaches, they foster uplifting emotional experiences that reduce stress and enhance overall engagement.
Another key benefit of strengths-based practices is that they spark meaningful conversations within the congregation. The language we use shapes how we see the world and respond to challenges. If a church community views a situation through the lens of opportunity rather than crisis, the emotional response and collective energy will be vastly different. Consider the impact of asking, “How is God already at work in our congregation?” versus “What problems are holding us back?” The former question invites exploration, gratitude, and inspiration, while the latter can feel discouraging and limiting.
If our internal and external dialogue within the church focuses on appreciation—on God’s blessings, faithfulness, and opportunities for growth—it has the capacity to transform our well-being, both individually and collectively. Participating in the Discovery Phase of Appreciative Inquiry—identifying and celebrating the best of one’s congregation—leads to positive changes in mindset, morale, and even physical health. Negative emotions decrease, and people become more energized and engaged. It does the heart good!
A study conducted at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Washington, DC examined how employees engaged in different organizational change processes. Some reflected on their work through an appreciative lens, recalling times when things were at their best, while others focused on problems and challenges. The results? Those who engaged in appreciative reflection experienced a decrease in stress and negative emotions, as well as a lower heart rate. Conversely, those focused on problem-based reflection showed no significant change. The study suggests that individuals and organizations benefit from an appreciative focus, becoming less anxious, more resilient, and more hopeful about the future.
For congregations, this underscores the importance of fostering a culture of appreciation, gratitude, and visioning for the future. Appreciative Inquiry aligns with biblical principles. Paul writes in Philippians 4:8:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, a leading scholar in positive psychology, describes how positive emotions expand our thinking and help us build resilience and relational strength. Her research highlights how people who cultivate gratitude, kindness, and hope experience:
- Greater openness to new possibilities;
- A stronger ability to find win-win solutions;
- Increased resilience in the face of challenges.
David Cooperrider, one of the founders of Appreciative Inquiry, explains why problem-focused approaches often hinder organizational health. He notes that:
- A focus on problems can deplete energy and morale;
- The proposed solutions can sometimes create new problems;
- When we focus only on weaknesses, we may miss the strengths and opportunities already present.
For congregations, this means shifting from a problem-solving mindset to one of discovery and appreciation. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with our church?” we might ask, “What is God already doing among us, and how can we build on it?” This shift in focus can renew passion for ministry, strengthen relationships, and create an atmosphere of hope and possibility.
Even in challenging seasons, we can choose to see God’s faithfulness at work. As Habakkuk 3:17-18 reminds us:
“Though the fig tree does not blossom, and no fruit is on the vines; though the produce of the olive fails, and the fields yield no food; though the flock is cut off from the fold and there is no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will exult in the God of my salvation.”
Appreciative Inquiry is not about ignoring difficulties, but rather about recognizing and amplifying the good that God is already doing. It is a call to move forward in faith, focusing on what is life-giving, strengthening, and true. By shifting our mindset, language, and conversations, our congregations can cultivate renewed joy, purpose, and vitality.
Indeed, Appreciative Inquiry—it does the heart good!
Chris Wethman
Operational Assistant for Wellness & Coaching