You’ve had success with your outreach efforts, and your church is growing. But how do you continue to thrive and retain your members? When your church grows, it’s important to foster your community and the connections so your church stays true to its mission. It’s a challenge churches of every size face.
Here are some ways to foster your community.
1) Leadership Connections
Church leaders are the face of your church. They guide us with their preaching and participation within the church. These interactions are one way to make members feel connected. Whether working side by side at a church event or having one-on-one conversations, it’s necessary for our leaders to interact and bond with members.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
2) Connection among members
Nurturing connections among members is another way to develop community. Friendships are a bond that will keep members returning to your church. And friendships that develop while growing in one’s faith deepen the relationship. So, encouraging participation in small groups and volunteering opportunities helps nurture your church community.
I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. 1 Corinthians 1:10
3) Celebrating and Hardship
Communities draw together in times of celebration and hardship. Think of a particular natural disaster and how it brought a town or country closer together. Celebrations can have the same impact on your community. In either case, you may not have a one-on-one relationship with everyone, but a common cause or celebration unites us. Start celebrating and cultivating unity within your church.
Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, and live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11
4) Church Vision
Church leaders strive to fulfill God’s mission. Creating a clear vision to do God’s work can unify your members and reconcile conflicts. Having a common goal and being part of something bigger makes it possible for your community to believe they can achieve it. Ensure your congregation knows, understands, and supports your vision so there is no misunderstanding that you’re striving for the same goal.
Each local body of believers should keep this vision front and center as they carve out their own way of reaching the community. Matthew 28:19-20
5) Embrace Families
Encourage families to participate in your church. If everyone in the family is involved, it’s hard for any individual family member not to participate. Our kids keep us honest. No matter how long your day has been, they will have us run them to youth group, Sunday school, special events, etc., to see their friends. There isn’t an easy way for you not to go and join in.
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! Psalm 133:1
Connecting with and aligning your church is essential in forming a healthy church community.
Taking steps to foster community is something everyone in your church needs to be involved with. If you need help strengthening your church community, ACST can help with products, services, and expertise.
For information on how to Engage Every Generation for stronger relationships in your community, download now.
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