A Volley from the Canon, Number 95 Growth and Decline 5

A VOLLEY FROM THE CANON, NUMBER 95

A SUMMARY OF CONCLUSIONS ABOUT THE DATA ON GROWING AND DECLINING CONGREGATIONS

Source: Kirk Hadaway, FACT 2010 Survey

THINGS THAT HELP FOSTER GROWTH (not in order of strength)

1. The presence of younger members in the congregation.
2. Diversity in the racial make-up of the congregation.
3. An Hispanic or Asian/Pacific membership
4. Newness of the church, or newness of the neighborhood
5. A clear sense of mission.
6. Spiritual vitality.
7. Joyful worship
8. A clear theological position, especially among the most “liberal” congregations.
9. Willingness to change to meet new challenges.
10. Ability to manage and reduce conflict.
11. Involvement of children in worship.
12. The congregation desiring growth.
13. Technical savvy, and using modern technologies
14. Both lay members and clergy actively recruit members.
15. Special programs and events.
16. Follow-up to visitors.
17. Attention to adult formation
18. Events for young adults.
19. Emphasis on personal prayer and parents talking to children about faith
20. Adequate clergy attention (multiple clergy, full-time clergy).
21. Clergy active in community life.
22. Members rotate leadership roles.
23. Clergy serving 3 to 10 years in the congregation (returns diminish after that).
24. Lower percentage of budget spent on buildings.
25. Not kneeling.