Here at Convergence, we have spent a great deal of time studying what business and thought leaders say about defining and measuring innovation. While their perspectives varied depending on field and focus, these three commonalities were clear: great ideas, excellent execution, real impact.

The work you do in your communities will have a real impact when it can show progress on a real need related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). These goals provide a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet. Because they are an urgent call for action by all countries, developed and developing, they recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests. The SDG areas are listed below, and more details on these goals can be found here.

1. No Poverty
2. Zero Hunger
3. Good Health and Well-being
4. Quality Education
5. Gender Equality
6. Clean Water and Sanitation
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
10. Reducing Inequality
11. Sustainable Cities and Communities
12. Responsible Consumption and Production
13. Climate Action
14. Life Below Water
15. Life On Land
16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
17. Partnerships for the Goals

Convergence brings the skills to lead you in innovative and longstanding commitments to the church and to ministry. This decade will bring an opportunity to write new plot lines with creative narrative within your congregation. We have to recognize that the way we've always done something, while foundationally it might sound necessary, is no longer the best way to accomplish it. Our traditional narratives and age-old outline of church life no longer suffice. New stories and visions are necessary.