I visit in lots of churches over the course of a year. Some are growing and lively, and others... not so much. What's the difference? I've often wondered about that. I don't think it has anything to do with age of the members or size of the congregation (and all the churches I visit have Christ at the center). There are many possible factors, my observations are not scientific and I don't want to over simplify, but here are some thoughts about what I see:
For one thing, I think it has to do with orientation - is the orientation internal or external; is the congregation caring for itself or is it caring for others? The congregations that focus out and care for others seem to be healthier. They don't wait for people to come to them, they go out and work among the people in their neighborhood; they know their neighbors and their neighbors' needs.
And is the focus on the past or on the present and future? When the focus is on the past, it is easy to think that the good days seem to be gone. It is important to live in the present and to have a strong hope for the future.
I spoke with one Pastor of a growing church, and one that is engaged in their community in many ways, and he said "we didn't invent any of these things we are doing... the opportunities came to us - and God provided all we needed in order to do them." I'm guessing every community has needs, and opportunities to meet those needs. Some see them and others don't. Perhaps it is as simple as: the ones who saw the opportunities were looking for them.
Wheat Ridge can be one of the ways that God provides what is needed, and can provide help when congregations want to focus out and get active in the present. Check out their grants and other resources. And check out how you can help us with our granting ministry.
