Retention & Attrition

I couldn't help but to continue to consider Walsh' words yesterday regarding the church. Like many organizations and businesses, churches struggle as well, with retaining people with in the church. Retention and attrition, for that matter.

A church can be so focused on outreach, that they spend little to no time on building and maturing the faith of those who have been apart of the church for any significant length of time.

A church can be so focused on a particular age group, demographic or need within the community, that others will question why they continue (not just that, church is about 'what's in it for me', but if one feels disconnected or they feel they don't belong after numerous attempts to get "plugged-in") to attend where they feel left out.

A church can be so focused on a topic or an emphasis of ministry, that while it may be great that that is what they are known for and do well, if they don't develop or grow other areas of ministry for people to be involved, then they too, may not stay around.

The church is full of great people, great opportunities and great ideas. And while a church may not be able to accomplish all that it hopes, dreams and sets out to do, if a church can't find a consistent rythem of sustained development and growth, in terms of both physical numbers and spiritual maturity, then everything they set out to do in ministry will be some sort of uphill battle.

Finances, participation, efficiency and effectiveness... all of it will be a struggle, sooner or later.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, that God would strength the body of Christ, in their current state. May those who are a part be encouraged, to develop their faith, to contribute to the ministry, to deepen their relationship. Pray that conflict and problems would not be so disruptive as to cause splits, and departure; but that people would work through differences and come out of situations and circustance stronger than when they began. May the faith of many remain steadfast and firm to that which they profess; unwavering and uncomprising. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous in honor of their faithfulness to the work of God and the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

Rythem and balance.
Strong foundations and great development.
The building UP of the body of Christ
To impact the world, both locally and globally.
For the glory of God.

- PNC