Warren Bird, Research Director for Leadership Network and co-author of 24 books on various aspects of church health and innovation, blogged about the feedback he received from a recent focus group of pastors who shared their “great ideas for great churches,” which include:
- Gifts for first-time newcomers
- Partnering with the local YMCA
- Shaping the Culture of the City
- Intentionally Multi-Ethnic Churches
- Citywide Youth Group
- Planting Churches to Reach People Like You
So What?
Typically, churches understand their role as ministry to and with those in their congregation and those in their larger community – especially those in close geographic proximity (the growth of online/internet campus is a notable exception). While each parish should contextualize its approach, an understanding of what other congregations have found helpful can serve as an exceptional resource.
- Does your congregation already do anything on Bird’s list? If so, what does this ministry look like and how has it contributed to the life of your church?
- What resources does your denomination or network of churches provide that shares the stories of what others are doing that is making a real difference? Has your congregation directly benefited from or leveraged the basic principles of a successful ministry or program started in another parish?