Measuring Church Vitality as Opposed to Viability
We hear a lot about measuring church viability. How depressing! It prompts you to look for flaws to the point that even the evaluators are gasping for breath. When you are concentrating on viability you are always measuring yourself against others. It becomes self-defeating.
But what if you measured vitality instead? We visited a church denominational web site which used this word on very page. It was uplifting. They were measuring all the good things small congregations had going for them — enough to make anyone want to join. There was a definite sense that the denomination valued and cared about their small congregations.
Let’s start measuring the great things small churches have going for them. Great community and committed lay workers may lead the list. Hospitality and inclusiveness are other small church plusses. Small churches are in a unique position to try new things. Go for it! Celebrate who you are and quit trying to emulate bigger congregations.
Here’s a motivational list to help you build your confidence and ministry.
- Network! Find other people and organizations who share your values and passions. Some may be religious. Others may be secular. But they are all likely to have positive energy which is contagious. They can be healthy partners to small congregations.
- Don’t make decisions based on “but we can’t” rational. Look for what you “can” do. You may be stronger and more capable than you think. Try. Push the envelope. Weigh what is best for you and your ministry. Act boldly.
- Find ways to build your congregational confidence. Start small if necessary. If you are too small to support a choir, advertise that you are looking for a trio! If you can’t hold a big event, start with some smaller events. Celebrate each accomplishment.
Remember, God loves you the way you are! There is power in remembering that.