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People sitting in chairs at a worship service beneath an interstate bridge
 
Bishop Robert Schnase tells the story of a Texas congregation sharing ministry with its homeless neighbors in relational and empowering ways. This powerful example of risk-taking mission began with the simple desire to learn about people's circumstances and ask, "What do you need?"

Close up of a hand placing coins in an offering plate
 
Lovett H. Weems, Jr., explains that while only a few members of your church may be currently experiencing hard times, most of the others live with the reality that they could face hard times some day. And they will feel better about giving to a church that acknowledges that reality.

The Right Question
Leaders do not need answers. Leaders must have the right questions. 

Churches often have an image of what new members might look like. Chances are that churches similar to yours are seeking those same people. Try using this question to spark new ideas.

Who are the people in our community that all churches are overlooking?

Congregational Giving Profile Video Tool Kit

To answer this vital question you need to track giving accurately according to your church's unique pattern of giving -- not simply the budget divided by 12 months. Our Congregational Giving Profile Video Tool Kit helps you track finances based on the way people in your church actually give, establishing a more meaningful system of monitoring and reporting progress on your budget. 

50 Ways to Take Church to the Community

Churches can no longer open their doors and expect that people will come in. Effective congregations go into the world to encounter those in need of the gospel. 50 Ways to Take Church to the Community provides tips on reaching beyond the walls of your church with worship, community events, ministries, and service.


Leading Ideas is made possible by contributions to the Lewis Center for Church Leadership from readers like you. Thank you.

Head shot of John Wesley statue

This new Lewis Center online course examines the historic significance and contemporary relevance of class leaders, a role essential to the success of early Methodism and an effective means of nurturing discipleship. The first 50 enrollees may take advantage of a scholarship for free tuition .

Quotable Leadership

This is not the first time that the United States has had to incorporate new peoples into society. Almost always, doing so had made the country richer, more vibrant, and more economically successful.

William H. Frey
Simply Christian Adult Education Study
 
This ten-session video-based congregational study featuring biblical scholar N.T. Wright addresses questions of the reasonableness of the Christian faith in the modern world. Simply Christian is an excellent course for both established believers and seekers and is ideal for your congregation's small groups, adult Bible studies, and Sunday School classes.


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