The Evolution of Mission Possible: What’s New and Why Mission Possible 4 Matters Now

When Paragraph 247.2 was added to the UMC Book of Discipline in 2016, churches were given new flexibility to modify their leadership structures—but without a clear roadmap for how to do so. Recognizing that gap, Kay Kotan published the first edition of Mission Possible: A Simple Structure for Missional Effectiveness in 2017 to guide churches through implementing simplified, accountable structures (SAS).

Since then, through years of coaching, consulting, and learning alongside churches nationwide, Kotan—along with publisher Market Square Books and co-author Blake Bradford—has continued to refine and expand this practical and vital resource. Each edition has built upon real-world experience, resulting in Mission Possible 2 (2019) and Mission Possible 3 (2021), followed by Mission Possible for the Small Church in 2023.

Now, with even deeper field insights, broader adoption of SAS, and increasing demand for next-level implementation guidance, the time has come for Mission Possible 4: Simplifying Church Leadership.

Here’s what makes this newest edition a true game-changer for church leaders:

• Expansion from three to four phases: Seeing the gaps in implementation and practice, the adoption and practice of SAS now includes not only discerning, equipping, and implementing, but now also includes designing.

• A new format: Moving from a workbook to a comprehensive resource reference, making it easier for leaders to find what they need, when they need it.

• Online resource access: Church leaders can now access materials digitally, ensuring real-time updates and ongoing improvement.

• Unified guide for all church sizes: One resource that addresses unique approaches for churches of different sizes while providing a shared framework for discernment, equipping, and implementation.

• Shorter, focused chapters: Easier navigation of key topics and challenges that church leaders commonly face.

• Advanced implementation support: Detailed guidance for churches already using the SAS model and seeking to move beyond the basics and into even greater missional alignment.

• Community connection: The launch of new SAS communities for shared learning, support, and collaboration among church leaders nationwide.

Mission Possible 4: Simplifying Church Leadership isn’t just an update—it’s an evolution. It represents the culmination of years of practice, innovation, and partnership with churches striving for health, vitality, and Kingdom impact. For churches ready to take their leadership culture to the next level, Mission Possible 4: Simplifying Church Leadership offers the latest tools, insights, and community to make it happen.