State of the Church 2002
Half of the Churches in America
- are growing
- have fewer than 100 participating adults (25% have less than 50)
- are located in a rural or small town setting
- Less than 10% of all churches in America have more than 1000 in attendance.
Keys to Growth
Growing churches report that they:
- welcome change
- have cultural affinity—finding “our kind of people”
- are organized to put their vision in action
- offer inspirational worship
- provide care for their members and are involved in their communities
- teach moral standards
- strengthen congregational vitality by using promotional programs
Source: http://fact.hartsem.edu/executive_summary.htm
Searching for Meaning
One-half of all Americans admit they are searching for the meaning and purpose in life, and the figure is no different among those that claim to be born-again.
Source: http://www.barna.org/cgi-bin/PagePressRelease.asp?PressReleaseID=68
Something to think about:
People who visit your church are searching for meaning and purpose. Will they find the answer? Are people already in your congregation searching for meaning?
