The Center is the result of three grants
from a New York foundation. Over the past
three years, 23 churches have taken part in a study that
involved issues of growth, membership, governance, stewardship,
and vision. Churches ranged in size from 325 to 1350 members.
The study has revealed that churches face significant obstacles, including:
- Membership being on a plateau
- A pervasive attitude of scarcity, even in affluent areas
- Redundant and overlapping committee structures
- A permission-withholding rather than permission-granting culture
- Attempts to please everyone, and not offend anyone
- Low or ambiguous expectations of membership
The foundation has extended funding so these issues can be
confronted head-on.
The premise of this project is that to achieve systemic change, consultations
must be done on-site, and tailor-made to suit a church's unique circumstances.
The Continuing Study
We are seeking 5-7 congregations as participants
in this ongoing study. One result of this project is that we hope some
congregations will develop into regional teaching churches.
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