Assisting Churches in Need

RON HAMILTON, CCCC CONFERENCE MINISTER

The ministry staff of our Conference met recently to prayerfully consider ways we can assist churches who are struggling and uncertain about their future. Working together with John Kimball, Director of Church Development, Rob O’Neal, Director of Church Multiplication, and Peter Wood, Director of Conference Care, we developed a process to help churches facing challenges.

It is commonly believed that 80% of churches in America are in a plateau or are declining in their membership, worship attendance, and effectiveness in ministry. We are aware that as much as 20% of our churches are in a position where they are not confident that they will be in existence beyond a period of two years. Contributing factors are population and demographic change in the neighborhood, church conflict, dysfunctional leadership, and a general spiritual malaise.  However, we believe that there is hope for a turnaround in most of these situations if church leaders will seek the Lord and accept the counsel of others.

The tool that was developed in our meeting is centered on the theme “Turning Point.” We believe that the work of each of our Ministry Priorities can make a significant contribution to assist our churches. The desire to “make disciples” drives these Priorities and we desire to see our churches rediscover this Christ-given mission. We will assist our churches to assess their situation, to refocus their ministry and mission, and to develop new pathways for “making disciples.” I am greatly encouraged by the development of this process and excited to begin to offer this to our churches.