What makes a congregation come alive? I’ve asked some friends across the nation and have gleaned their thoughts on this matter. Here’s a top 10 list for alive churches.
10. Alive churches adjust their sails. They know change is the only way growth happens. Change is a gift from God.
9. Alive churches ask a lot of questions. Questions are invitations for the Spirit of God to enter the equation.
8. Alive churches collaborate and work together within the membership and with other faith communities and charities.
7. Alive churches replace fear with courage and a willingness to act.
6. Alive churches seek to do things better and in new ways.
5. Alive churches act believing that God is still speaking and advocates exploring new possibilities to keep faith and ministry vibrant.
4. Alive churches are willing to take risks. Rather than ask, “Why?” they say, “Why not?”
3. Alive churches understand sabbath rest. Pastors are allowed time to recharge; lay leaders are rotated in and out of positions; ministries are allowed to end.
2. Alive churches have a strong sense of mission—they know the community and the community’s needs.
1. Alive churches take the time to get to know each other. They honor the variety of gifts and talents that each person brings to the table.
So, how are we doing with this list? What are the areas where you can help us improve?
Namaste. Shalom, Paul