From our pastor:
Recently, I came across an article by Rev. Joe McKeever entitled, “10 Reasons Why Small Churches tend to stay small.” I found the whole article enlightening and I want to share some of the article. If you like to read the rest please let me know.
McKeever begins by discussing his history and the churches he has pastured and then continues with this insight. “By using the word “grow,” I do not mean in numbers for numbers’ sake. I do not subscribe to the fallacy that bigness is good and small churches are failures. What I mean by “grow” is reaching people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. For example, if you are located in a town that is losing population and your church manages to stay the same size, you're probably “growing” (i.e., reaching new people for the Lord). In addition, any church—large or small—that does not place a high value on evangelism and outreach to the unchurched can’t expect to grow…period. But countless articles and books have been written on that subject. Now, after working for years among hundreds of small congregations, I speak here to the subtle growth barriers that tend to go unnoticed or unaddressed.” He goes on to list the 10 reasons and expounds on each of them. Since I do not have that much space, I want to list his reasons and then briefly discuss them as I see Third Lutheran Church.
1. Wanting to stay small.
McKeever states, “We like our church just the way it is now." While this attitude usually goes unspoken—it might not even be recognized by its carriers—it's widespread in many churches.” I suspect that for many of our members and long-term visitors/friends that is the case.
2. A quick turnover of pastors.
While I feel we have had a turnover, it is not terribly out of line with many parishes.
3. Domination by a few strong members.
Given our renewal throughout the past 6-10 years I don’t see that this is a major situation at TLC. Churches often try to get to a place where decisions are more of a team effort rather than a top down model which already exists at TLC.
4. Not trusting the leaders.
Again, I don’t think this is a major concern here at TLC.
5. Inferiority complex.
One of my fears is that this is a concern for folks here at TLC. For decades (and some would argue during the whole existence of Third Lutheran Church) that we have been overly concerned and stressed about not having enough money. Sometimes, I believe that we don’t trust our faith and the presence of the Holy Spirit to provide the resources for us to make lofty goals. My wish is that we as God’s gathered people will make a conscious decision to put more stock in our faith and reach for higher goals.
6. No plan.
I truly believe that we are beginning to come to terms with the need for a plan to reach out to our community with the light of Christ. The desire is there in many of your hearts to begin a plan…let’s make that happen.
7. Bad health.
McKeever writes, “So, what is a healthy church? Romans 12 is God's blueprint for a healthy church: Verses 1-2 call for each individual to make a personal commitment to Christ ("present your bodies as a living sacrifice"); verses 3-8 call for each one to find his/her place of service where they can use their spiritual gifts; and verse 9 through the end of the chapter describes the relationships within a healthy, loving fellowship of believers. Show me a congregation where members are wholeheartedly committed to Jesus Christ, each is using (or learning to use) their God-given spiritual gifts in the Lord's service, and their fellowship is sweet and active—and I'll show you a healthy church.”
8. Lousy fellowship.
This could not be further from the truth here at Third. We are known for our hospitality and our fellowship is a hallmark of our community.
9. A state of neglect permeates the church.
This is an area that has recently and is currently being addressed by our building and property committees in concert with the church council. For those of us who have been for many decades are beginning to look at our physical plant with fresh eyes. For those who are newer among us, I encourage you to let me or any of our committee chairs/council members know when you see a need around our property.
10. No prayer.
I believe that we do have an active prayer life here at TLC, but it could always be stronger. Perhaps, we have folks in this community who would like to help us grow in our prayer discipline.
Again, I offer this article as a launching point for further discussion on where we are as a community of faith and where we want to be. I encourage your prayerfully considering these insights and seeing how they apply to your role in this community.
See you in church, Steven
What’s Going on at UCHM?
United Crescent Hill Ministries, UCHM, met for their monthly board meeting. The meeting opened with a prayer, Giving and Receiving. Dave Bush, UCHM Development chair, is available to present information about UCHM at any church meeting or event. The Frankfort Ave. Business Association and Tina Ward-Pugh’s office are doing a good job getting information out into the community and beyond about what UCHM is and what they do for the community. Plans for the Home Tour are in the works and sponsors and volunteers are needed. Crescent Hill Community Council will have a Yard Sale Sat., April 24, 8:00am-1:00pm on the grounds of the Peterson- Dumesnil House, 301 S. Peterson Ave. A 12’x12’ space may be rented for $20.00. The Metro, LG&E Match Program is going well with the deadline being May. Thanks to everyone who donated to this program. Our Youth Program director, Anita Roper, was honored at a Kentuckiana Works Board meeting for an outstanding and efficient job with the UCHM Summer Youth Program. The Senior Program delivers 32 meals daily to shut-ins through Meals on Wheels; provides lunch and activities at the Center; and organizes trips for many seniors. Our own Joyce Head has enjoyed many of these trips. Julia Inman, from Tina Ward-Pugh’s office, discussed the “Green Triangle Project” within our District Nine. The project addresses interest in sustainability and green initiatives within our area. Julia lead the discussion on what we would like to see in our neighborhood. All the information will now be taken to Tina’s office. Surveys have also been collected from folks who live, work, or play in this district. All the information will be crafted into a vision statement and the plans will proceed from this. The Frankfort Ave. Business Association, Clifton Community Council, Crescent Hill Community Council, Tina’s office, and UCHM continue to work together to make our neighborhood the best in Louisville. All that UCHM does is only possible through the support they receive from neighborhood churches and people like you. They appreciate your support.
Betty Frazier and Patty Featherstone, UCHM board members from TLC
