From the General Presbyter

Have you ever sat in a meeting where people are taking an extremely long time to decide on something you do not feel is all that important? That’s when the head shaking and eye rolling and watch checking begins. Then the comments eek out: “Come on people!” or “This is ridiculous!” Even worse, have you ever tried to move the discussion along, just to discover people have more to say on the subject?

Importance is in the “eye” of the beholder. This is one reason the church is where it is today; there is a disconnect between what’s important to attendees and what’s important “out there.” I have come to realize that as long as that gap exists, church membership will continue to decline or shift.

There is another reason. Church data specialist Ryan Burge points out (as quoted by the Lewis Center of Church Leadership), ”Mainline churches are dominated by baby boomers, and there simply aren’t enough adults in the generations after to replace them. Meanwhile, in The United Methodist Church, The Episcopal Church, and the Presbyterian Church (USA), there are 10 retirees for every young adult in the pew.” There are really two issues, values and numbers.

In my opinion, it is more important for a congregation to identify what is important in their context, and share it, even if it means membership will not increase. Folks on the outside are looking for authentic connections, a place of belonging. They are less likely to attend a church that says “welcome,” but where the old guard will not share leadership. Think about it. You would not join an organization that doesn’t match your values or beliefs.

I believe there is a church for everyone who wants to be part of the body of Christ even in a shrinking national population. A church that has integrity, that is clear about its mission and that makes every effort to live out the Gospel is a place somebody wants to be. Take time to do a formal or informal mission study. Who are you in 2026? What’s your spiritual gift? How do you make that known? No guarantees, but when you schedule time on your meeting docket for what’s important, everyone will happily participate!

– Jackie