Joe Thorn: What Small Churches Can Do (Pt 1)

I have a lot of experience in and with small churches through my own pastoral ministry as well as denominational cooperation. I have seen small churches that are healthy and some that are toxic. I have seen some die, and some grow dramatically in number. There are all kinds, and I would never assume all churches considered "small" by their own leadership or by outsiders are the same. But I do want to encourage some of Christ's smaller churches who are struggling.

Before I begin with the first post in this series, allow me to clarify what I mean by "small."

I understand that the largest percentage of churches in America are under 100 in attendance. While a church of 100 is "normative" in comparison to other congregations, it should be noted that most Christians are found in larger churches. This means that churches of 100 or so people are not "normative" when compared to the majority of other Christians' experience. I share this only to explain what I mean by "small" churches. A church of 120 feels small to most Christians, and in my assessment is still relatively small by virtue of the number of attenders, members, and leaders it has. Therefore "small" here is not meant to be a derogatory term, but a descriptor. Small churches can be dynamic and healthy. I am comfortable putting my church in the category of Christ's "smaller churches." So for now, lets forget about the actual number. What I am writing this week is for the smaller churches that are in trouble. I write this as an insider, and as a lover of smaller congregations. Keep reading

Also see
What Small Churches Can Do (Pt 2)