Large churches are obviously different than small churches, but what are those specific differences as it relates to church revitalization? Today, we cover that and more.
Today’s Listener Question:
FROM CLIFF
I just took a pastorate at a larger church than I’ve ever pastored. I’ve led revitalization at a few smaller churches (mostly under 250) in the past and am now at a church in Central Florida running 450+. What differences in revitalization might I run into in a church this size as compared to my previous churches?
Episode Highlights:
- It may seem obvious, but not all churches are alike.
- Revitalization funding needs to be a local mission effort.
- Because small, declining churches can more closely see the end of their church, desperation often sets in earlier than in large churches.
- Bigger churches aren’t always healthier, sometimes they’re just bigger.
The nine differences in large and small church revitalizations are:
- The resources issue: good and bad
- The death spiral issue
- The desperation factor
- The mindset issue
- The pride factor
- The facility issue: good and bad
- Smaller churches more likely to be open to acquisition
- The percentage of churches in need of major revitalization is not statistically different at any size
- The final consideration: “It depends”
Resources mentioned in this episode include:
- ChurchReplanters.com
- ChurchAnswers.com
- Replanter Assessment
- Find more resources at the Revitalize & Replant page at ThomRainer.com
Submit Your Question:
Do you have a question about church revitalization or replanting for us to use on the podcast? Visit the podcast page to submit your question. If we use it on the show, you’ll get a copy of Autopsy of a Deceased Church and Reclaiming Glory.
