Giving to the church for the first time is an emotional experience before it’s a financial one. While finances do play a role in the decision, people give with their hearts. But, only 19% of those that give once are likely to donate a second time. There are a lot of reasons for this, and a primary one has to do with how you engage with first-time givers.
Church attendance and giving often go hand in hand. When one increases so does the other, and vice versa. Just like the end of the year is known for an uptick in gifts and guests, the summertime is notorious for a decrease in attendance and giving.
Churches play a vital role in helping with natural disaster relief. But, it can be complicated. On the one hand, communities look to churches for leadership and ways to get involved. On the other hand, relief agencies have specialized resources and certified staff and volunteers in place to handle these types of situations. With so many people organizing recovery efforts, it becomes a challenge to know the most effective ways to impact your community.
The United States Congress officially enacted the National Day of Prayer in 1952 (although days of prayer have been established and observed by presidents, Congress, and Americans since 1775). It falls on the first Thursday in May, and every year, the president signs a proclamation encouraging Americans to turn to God in prayer. People of many religions and Christians from different denominations come together on this day and pray in houses of worship, in front of courthouses, in their homes, and other locations around the community.
Church growth strategies often focus on the adults in the community. Strategies, like boosting social media efforts, improving the message of sermons, and sending personal invitations, are all directed towards adults. Even opening up your facility for programs like after-school care or Mother’s Day Out are designed to inspire parents to get involved.
Planning for your Easter service is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. With more than 50% of Americans attending church on Easter Sunday, chances are you’re preparing for the most visitors your church will see all year. There are sermons to write, passion plays to direct, egg hunts to plan, and the list goes on. But, where is reaching the unchurched located on your to-do list this year? Here we explore how to reach the unchurched this Easter (and why you should).
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