Sample Inventory Questions

Sample questions from various inventories that are part of the Cultural Audit are given below. The inventories are found on the CD in Word and WordPerfect formats so that the language of the questions can be adapted to each congregation’s situation before being used.

I. Inventory on Congregational Culture

Material Aspects

1. To what extent if any, does the U.S. motherhouse (or any other significant site) reflect the origin of the congregation? Do an imaginary walking tour of this house and write your observations.

- Architecture
- Interior décor, artwork, furniture
- Chapel, gathering places
- How is the house arranged?
- Where is the chapel?
- Where do people visit each other?
- Where do people find their own space?
- What does the space say about community life?
- How does the space instill the value of community?

Practices

7. Is there an unspoken code of behavior?

- Does reality conform to the written rule?
- What does this instill in community members?

8. Do the structures of governance reflect cultural influences?

- Role of superior/coordinator/facilitator/convener
- Chapters and assemblies
- Community councils and meetings
- Decision-making processes
- How do things actually get done?

II. Inventory of Elements of the Dominant U.S. Culture

This is an inventory to help you examine how much you and your community identify with the values of the dominant U.S. culture. This is done in a non-judgmental process that does not focus on possible positive or negative characteristics. Under each element, rate yourself and your community.

Use this scale of 1 to 5 to indicate to what extent each element describes you and your community:

1
Not at all

2
A little

3
Somewhat

4
Much

5
Completely

Cultural Element

3. Time Orientation

Time as a commodity:
Self   1    2    3    4    5
Community   1    2   3    4    5

Time as linear:
Self   1    2    3    4    5
Community   1    2   3    4    5

The future as a motivation in the present:
Self   1    2    3    4    5
Community   1    2   3    4    5

III. Inventory on Changing Attitudes and Behavior

1. What is the cultural location of the community and its members?

- Ethnic origin
- Socio-economic class
- Geographic area
- How does this fact in our history support our existing values and attitudes?