to improve in a new way year after year. It is what happens in the time off between seasons that makes winners during the season. It is equally valid that what brought a church to its current level of ministry fruitfulness will not get it to the next level of growth and vitality. Leaders learn quickly that as a church grows and ages, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep it healthy and vibrant. Over time, people change, conflicts build, and programs peak in effectiveness. Long-term excellence