In almost every consultation I conduct through my company, the Rainer Group, and in almost every church I research, the issue of assimilation arises. "If we could just keep the people who join our church, our attendance would be twice as high," church leaders often lament. Is there a "secret" to retention? Is there some type of process that can close the back door?

While there is neither a secret nor ...

Topics:	Assimilation, Community, Expansion, Growth, Membership, New members, Newcomers, Regular attenders, Service, Small groups, Spiritual gifts, Visitors & guests
Filters:	Church staff, Discipleship, Elder, Evangelism, Outreach, Pastor, Small groups, Volunteer coordinator
Purpose:	Discipleship
References:	Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, Ephesians 4, Hebrews 10:24
Date Added:	July 11, 2007

"I need advice," Dave began our conversation. Dave is like many pastors who call Metanoia Ministries for counsel about how to handle conflict in their church.

Dave told me about Tom, a founding member and retired businessman in his church. "He acts like he is the boss and I am his employee," Dave explained, "constantly telling me what I did or said wrong."

"Well, how do you respond?" I asked.

"I'd like ...

Topics:	Anger, Community, Conflict, Conflict resolution, Confrontation, Controversy, Difficult people, Division, Factions, Forgiveness, Leadership, Peace, Reconciliation, Unity
Filters:	Church board, Church staff, Counseling, Discipleship, Elder, Pastor, Pastoral care, Small groups
Purpose:	Discipleship
References:	Matthew 18:15-18, John 13:25, Romans 12:18, Romans 14:19, 1 Corinthians 14:33, 2 Corinthians 13:11, Ephesians 4:1-3, 1 Thessalonians 5:13
Date Added:	July 11, 2007