From time to time, I am asked to do some work on behalf of other congregations in the Baltimore-Washington Conference. Recently, I was asked to be part of a study team to examine the current health and ministry of the United Methodist Church elsewhere in Frederick County. The group looked at the church’s financial health, attendance and participation trends, current programs and facilities, and the demographics in the surrounding area.
I found the process to be quite helpful. The team comprised a mixture of laypersons and clergy, persons within and outside the congregation. The study group found ways the congregation can thrive and do valuable work in the community, but it would require a change in perspective and current practices. The church would likely benefit from including new people in leadership roles rather than just rotating leadership roles among a handful of core people with a service history. And the study group found that it would be helpful to offer activities and events that might have a wider appeal to people in the community that do not have a church background. A social activity might attract more people than a Bible Study or an additional worship service. This calls for innovation and creativity, trial and error, and conversation with folks who don’t typically come to the church.
Of course, this got me thinking about Calvary United Methodist Church. It’s great that we have volunteer opportunities that bring people together, such as the Blood Drives, the Sleep in Heavenly Peace bed build and deliveries, the Blessings in a Backpack stuffing days, and Rise Against Hunger meal packaging. We also have a concert series that brings people into the church building to enjoy wonderful music from talented artists. We have the Holiday Bazaar, the Yard Sale, the Christmas Tour, and other events that draw big crowds throughout the year. I hope we can continue to be innovative and creative in reaching out to our neighbors. Jesus would approve.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Steve