Growing a church isn’t about finding a magic bullet or the latest trendy program. It’s about focusing on what truly matters. After decades of working with churches across the nation, I’ve found that sustainable church growth boils down to four core processes: Invite, Connect, Disciple, and Send. Bill Easum and I wrote about these in our book Effective Staffing for Vital Churches. I’ll be leading a MasterClass on this on Thursday, July 25, 2024 and thought I’d give you a taste of what it’s all about. (Get more information and register here.)
Invite: Getting People Through the Door
1. Worship
Worship is still the front door of the church. Visitors are more likely to attend a worship service than any other event. Make sure your worship service is inspiring, relevant, and invite-worthy. It’s not just about good music and a solid sermon; it’s about creating an experience that makes people want to come back.
2. Non-Worship Events
Events like fish fries, bazaars, and car shows are great for inviting people into your church’s presence. However, if you charge for these events, they become mere transactions. Instead, focus on creating events that build relationships. Free events where people can connect with your members work best.
3. Networking
As the pastor, you’re the public face of the congregation. Spend significant time networking in the community. Attend Chamber of Commerce events, local high school games, and other community gatherings. Encourage your members to do the same. Networking isn’t just about meeting people; it’s about building relationships that can lead to meaningful connections.
4. Marketing
Mass marketing (TV, radio, newspapers) can be expensive with low returns. Instead, focus on word-of-mouth and savvy online marketing. Your website and social media accounts are powerful tools. Make sure they’re updated and engaging. Encourage your congregation to share church events on their personal social media pages.
Connect: Turning Visitors into Returning Guests
1. Cultural Relevance
Make sure everything your church does is relevant to the people you’re trying to reach. If you’re aiming for young families, ensure your ministries and programs speak to their needs and lifestyles. Relevance is key to making visitors feel at home.
2. Hospitality
First impressions matter. Ensure visitors can easily find parking, restrooms, and seats. Clean facilities, friendly greeters, and clear signage make a big difference. Avoid overwhelming visitors with insider language or practices they might not understand.
3. Follow-Up
Timely follow-up is crucial. Many visitors won’t return without it. Develop a follow-up system that includes doorstep visits (bring a small gift!), handwritten notes, emails, phone calls, and texts. Show visitors that you care about their experience and want them to come back.
4. The Adoption Agency
Visitors aren’t just looking for friendly faces; they’re looking for friends. Pair new visitors with a member who can help them navigate their spiritual journey and build a meaningful relationship. This personal connection can make all the difference in whether a visitor returns.
Disciple: Making Faithful Followers of Jesus
1. Classes
Offer short-term, topical classes that impart specific knowledge. Classes on prayer, scripture reading, and church membership are great starting points. These classes educate participants and help them grow in their faith.
2. Small Groups
Small groups are essential for deeper connection and discipleship. These groups go beyond traditional Sunday school, focusing on shared life experiences and mutual support. They help members navigate their Christian walk in a non-Christian world.
3. Mentoring
Mentorship is a powerful tool for disciple-making. Pair new believers with seasoned Christians who can guide them through their spiritual journey. This one-on-one relationship fosters growth and accountability.
4. Accountability
Accountability helps members integrate spiritual habits into their daily lives. Develop systems that encourage members to ask tough questions about their faith practices and share their experiences. This builds a supportive community focused on spiritual growth.
Send: Equipping Disciples to Make More Disciples
Once you’ve discipled your members, it’s time to send them back into the world as neighborhood missionaries. Encourage them to share their faith and make more disciples. This is how your church will grow and sustain its growth over time.
Growing a church isn’t about quick fixes; it’s about building a strong foundation through these core processes. Focus your energy on these strategies, and you’ll see your church shift from decline to growth.
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