Church Renewal

 Church Planters tend to think church planting is the only way to go. Those in established churches tend to be more concerned about church renewal. Is there a middle ground between the two? 

We may wish we could magically create a mission-shaped congregation with one event, one sermon, or one service-project. However, like our new year’s resolutions, becoming a mission-shaped congregation takes many small steps, all headed in the right direction.

Evangelism serves the building of the Church, and the building of the Church provides the foundation for witnessing to the Kingdom of God in all of life, and such witness fulfills our created purpose as image-bearers of God in His world.

Self-identified North American church goers attend church, on average, just once per month. Providence CRC recognized this challenge and is choosing a proactive approach to keep people connected even when they not present on Sunday mornings.

Most churches experiencing church-wide renewal also experience renewal among their deacons. They move away from financial management, administration and governance and toward stewardship, mercy and the pursuit of justice.

If all agree that prayer is important and powerful, why doesn’t prayer hold a more prominent place in most council meetings?

The mission God invites us to is one of urgency. Creating that sense of urgency in the congregations we serve is more effective and deeply-rooted when we realize where that call comes from.

I think we have failed to recognize the power that we have to form the Christian identity of the young people sitting in our pews. Won’t you consider giving young people a voice at the table?

In 2010, Pastor Brian from Immanuel Reformed Church asked his congregation if anyone wanted $10. Many hands went up. Then he said, “If you take this $10, then you need to use it to help someone who has a need.”

Using his own “off the map” skills honed in a local church and denominational context, Bolsinger helps church leaders find paths to follow. He tells of both his successes and failures in finding these paths.

Go Local is a congregational journey to discover and join where God is at work in our neighborhoods. If you'd like to experience Go Local (without any long term commitment) we invite you to join us at one of these events!