They clearly see that the older members outnumber the younger members three to one. We want to grow. Despite what a typical small church tells you, they like being small. Let us make the small church a place where growth is measured not in numbers of members but in the depth and height achieved by members in their Christian walk. In some places growth is appropriate.
New members are important to the vitality and strength of a church.
Small churches are finding that it is possible to incorporate new members while maintaining the integrity of the small church, and effective leaders are important in this process. The beautiful country church has shared a pastor with other churches throughout its 200-year history. They have struggled faithfully on the waves of change, and on June 18, they welcomed Marina Gopadze, newly graduated from Union-PSCE, as their very own. My heart is directed to small church ministry and the plight of some small churches. The Lord is raising up some of these churches.