Despite the mega churches on TV, almost every research points to the fact that local churches in America are closing their doors at an alarming rate. With the many changes in our world today, coupled with the challenges faced by the local church, many do question the relevancy of the local church in a changing world. This book, Strategic planning: Management within the local church, is intended to be an encouragement and a resource to the Body of Christ on how to make the church more strategic in its approach in making the vision and mission relevant to the world. This book is a product of critical analysis and investigations. About 250 churches, ranging from 50 to 400 people, from thirteen States, were surveyed within a period of two years. Strategic Planning: Management within the local church seeks to answer the question about the relevancy of the church in a troubling world. The focus of the book is about propelling the church into having greater impact in the world through strategic leadership. When the leadership of the church is strategic, the church can have greater impact, restore its image, and reach a troubling world with the message of hope and grace through our Lord, Jesus Christ.