This is one example of the differences that deeply impact local churches, because ministers and their constituency possess varying priorities. Even the continuing education provided clergy widens the perceptual valley between parishioners. When the minister proposes such a mission, resistance rises. If the mission of enlarging is not objected to, the suggested methodology is argued and is likely defeated in a church board vote. The results are unfortunate for the church, her decision-makers and her leader.
Unity is weakened and suspicion grows.
The church with the potential to reach out may become consumed with internal issues. Meanwhile the majority of churches in America continue to decline, due in part to their failure to agree upon ministry purposes and their inability to adopt effective methods of evangelism. Some of the hurdles to effective evangelism are systemic to the present pastor-people relationship, while other barriers may be overcome by new approaches to educating and equipping both ministers and local church leaders. Some observers have noted that both the clergy and the laity are able to learn and apply their learning better than ever. That does not seem to be true, however, judging from the statistical evidence.