Here is a simple activity to improve the process for connecting newcomers into the life of your church. Simply spend the first 10 minutes writing your answers to the three questions, and then spend the next 10 to 15 minutes discussing them with the team.

First, list at least three key strengths of your church. For example, you may write, "Our church provides ...

Topics:	Assimilation, Community, Growth, Hospitality, New members, Newcomers, Visitors & guests
Filters:	Church staff, Discipleship, Elder, Greeter, Hospitality, Outreach, Pastor, Usher
Purpose:	Ministry
References:	Matthew 25:31-46, 1 Peter 4:9-10
Date Added:	July 31, 2007

"This church hardly ever prays together," complained Joan, a 40-something church leader. "The only times for congregational prayer are during the services and 30 seconds before our committee meetings." An older man named Bill also chimed in, "Whatever happened to our midweek prayer service? The pastor dropped it five years ago, but that should be the lifeblood of our church."

As the conversation ...

Topics:	Intercessory prayer, Prayer, Pursuit of God, Renewal, Revivals, Spiritual formation, Spiritual passion
Filters:	Discipleship, Elder, Pastor, Pastoral care, Prayer, Shepherd, Spiritual director
Purpose:	Discipleship
References:	Acts 1:14, 1 Peter 4:7-11
Date Added:	July 31, 2007

In this interview, veteran church consultant Kennon Callahan, author of Twelve Keys to an Effective Church, discusses how a church can begin assessing its needs and laying a track for future growth.

How can a church move ahead?

Kennon Callahan: The wise coach never sends in plays the players cannot run. Churches need to match their objectives with their team. The art of helping a church move ahead ...

Topics:	Goals, Master plan, Mission statement, Objectives, Planning, Strategy, Vision
Filters:	Church board, Church staff, Elder, Pastor, Pastoral care
Purpose:	Discipleship
References:	1 Peter 4:10
Date Added:	July 31, 2007