Let me ask you a few questions first. What do you mean by growing? Bodies in the pews or increasing sense of God's presence in the church's life. There are many things that can put bodies in the pews but the real growth is found, not in that or even in the amount of service people do but in the growing reconciliation and love members have for one another. People not programs. Souls not numbers. Stats may not be the best thing to look at. I am familiar with some small churches who have some of the most godly leaders I've ever met. People know the Lord. I challenge you to first develop strong bonds (not just Sunday greetings) with others in your community of faith, open yourself to others and with time they will open to you. And I can almost guarantee you that you will begin to see what God has been doing in you community of faith. This will inspire you to invite others. As one disciple said, "come and see." Blessings to you and the church you speak of.
Swanie (Guest)
Posted: February 26, 2009
I believe that if your church is Christ centered and bible based and Jesus Christ is the only one that is lifted up God will be the one to move. God will draw people to your church... And maybe the pastors need equipping also . The people want to see their christian walk and the manifestation of the fruit of the Holy spirit in their lives...
moses sylvanus ita (Guest)
Posted: October 10, 2008
pls if i may ask who is to monitor this is't a pastor or other people in the church? what of you have a pastor that seing to know more than any other person, in this guest what can one do?
and if a group has not being given free hand to carry out the work the way it suppose be what can one do?
Charles Arn (Guest)
Posted: October 09, 2007
In evaluating "why" your church isn't growing look at three areas:
1. Your VISITOR VOLUME. Growing churches have 4% - 5% of their total weekend attendance as visitors (include first, second, and third-time visitors over a one-year average.)
2. Your VISITOR CONNECTION. You have 5 - 8 weeks after the first visit to see first-time visitors return. After that retention rates drop dramatically. Work at developing "connection points" between visitors and one or more people in your church (with whom they share something in common).
3. Your VISITOR RETENTION. Growing churches average 20% of all first-time visitors actively involved a year later. This happens best through involvement in a group, and/or having a meaningful role or task.
Churches need a specific PLAN to be sure each of these three areas are covered. Like a 3-legged stool, without one, the others are useless.
Hope this helps a little...
Charles Arn, President
CHURCH GROWTH, INC.
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