Re-building a church

[Lelie]

Hi all!

Many UMC churches in my area have been on a steady membership decline for some time now. Sadly, my own church has suffered, but we are not willing to give up! Together, we are searching for new ways to reach out to our community, new ways to evangelize, and ways to change (and hopefully) update our worship services. I pray continuously for guidance from the Lord on this matter, and He led me right here. I would love to hear any suggestions that any of you may have for our church. I'm open to any suggestions that any of you may have, things that have worked (or really DIDN'T work) in your churches, or just your prayers are appreciated. :help: :prayer: :)

[Jadis40]

You mentioned one of the most important things - prayer. I am sure that the Lord will guide you to what you should do.

One thing that I could offer is: depending on what environment you're in, you could host a block party, maybe have some activities for the kids, etc.

Remember though, a church isn't a building, a church isn't about numbers. The church is the body of believers who share a common belief in our Lord Jesus Christ. I am sure that if you let your light shine before men, then people may be drawn to you by the working of the Holy Spirit.

[eRev]

I saw a church host two community parties a year. They didn't promote the church or services at all. They had music, some live some dj, and hot dogs, jumping castles and other carnival type booths all free, all for the community, no preaching. It was a huge success. The fact that they didn't promote themselves caused many people to attend services. Some people came because they heard what this church was doing for the community, others because they were curious. The event has grown and so has the congregation.

Activity breeds activity.

I heard a saying once that I like ... build the kingdom and God will build the church.

Your community is in our thoughts and prayers.

Peace in Xp

[Hediru]

One thing that we are doing Conference-wide in Western PA is to look at the demographics of the towns our churches are in. Most congregations only appeal to one age group, and are not meeting the needs of the changing community. For example, the church I currently work at recently learned that our community has a lot of unwed mothers. So we are starting parenting classes and other ministries geared to these mothers. We are also working closely with the local Pregnancy Crisis Center to promote abstinence from sex among young people and alternatives to abortion if pregnancy does occur. Please pray for this new ministry.

[cristianna]

I agree with all the suggestions given so far. Each generation in the church is just as important as the other. But I feel churches need to really begin their focuses on young families.

I would recommend brainstorming each step.

The first and hardest challenge: How will we get people through the door? Parent's Night Out! Block Party! Carnival! Family Movie Night-- come watch a recent release for free!

How will we get them to keep coming back? Host them semi-frequently. Advertise other activities in a brochure or flyer to be distributed as they are entering/exiting.

What will the turn-out be? At first, probably not so great. BUT... the PNO's have always been a HUGE hit from day one. As time progresses word spreads.

If interested who should they talk to? Have everyone in name tags and if they are a leader have their title with it.

The list goes on. If you're ready to jump start this, and soon... I'd recommend some type of sitter service promoting parents the opportunity to holiday shop without kids. Maybe have one or two Saturday's with three or so hours for them to drop off their children for a small donation at their discretion whether it's monetary, helping to fill the food pantry, donated winter clothing for community members, etc.

I'd focus on the holidays (if the congregation can really pull things together that quickly). We all know the number of visitors that come through starting about now all the way through Christmas. Maybe offer Lunch with Santa or New Year's Party.

[silentpoet]

How bad do you want it and how far are you willing to go? I suppose that is the big question when we want to make something happen.

The other question I would ask is what ministries are needed in your area? Stuff like Angel food ministries comes to mind. Also look at who is hurting in your community, what needs can your church meet. Not what you are capable of, but what needs must be met somehow. Don't focus on what you as a church are capable of. Focus on how you can step out beyond in faith.

Also depending on congregation and other issues you might look at how your services are conducted. How can you better serve people once you get them to come through the door. Speaking of which, focus on showing the love of God to everyone who does come through that door. Don't look at them as potential converts. Look at them as Jesus did, with love and hope. The welcoming attitude is why I am now a member of a Nazarene Church.