My line item response:

“You chose the right word “symbolically”.” Meant as a challenge rather than an accusation.

“When leadership isolates itself from the people it serves, does it accomplish Christ’s goal?”
Not to be defensive, but there are limitations to what one person can do in terms of relationships (about 100 and thus why many churches peak around that number).

“Is a “seeker-friendly” church the wave of the future in Evangelical circles; where church is “cool”, truth is “grey”, and the faithful are shepherded by leaders who look and act like the secular world around them.” I would concur if those same leaders are not following up on the “seekers” they attract with a full compliment of life application within the scriptures, even if that followup is via affordable subordinate staff, better yet a core of the congrgetation empowered to journey with those drawn to that “cool” church.

“When novices are promoted to “pastors” followers lack vision.” Vision is an individual revelation that then connects and compliments a greater cause. I would not be a part of an institution with which I could not sense that connect.

“What is our vision for reaching our community? Love out Loud

“Where are discipleship programs when families are falling apart, and society is comfortable with alternative lifestyles and entitlement programs.” If you are talking about WS1st, lost in part to a facility no longer functional for traditional disciplship programs and probably should have been modified or the congregation relocated by leadership some years ago. However, the 24:6 vision now being developed could provide an alternative that will not require immediate relocation, while still engaging church consituents even beyond our own congregation. (my opinion only).

“Does the big “C” church really offer any hope outside of social settings?” To me, the big “C” church is the Body of Christ and not necessarily restricted to a facility or programatic means, as reflected in the practices of the average campuses that occupy almost on every corner in America. You need to read my book, “Repo”!

We are not far apart in our thoughts but I would rather talk directly than to an anonymous response. Not to be offensive (it may have been a technological selection default). Feel free to communicate at Mastercounsel@triad.rr.com.