FCC has averaged 180-205 in worship for the past 10 years. Though I must say that 2011 was our best year and we are now over the 205 mark. But if it is to maintain and continue to grow then we have to overcome the “200″ barrier which is very common in churches. In fact, according to Bill Easum in Go Big, it is the hardest barrier to overcome. Here are a few more quotes from this section of the book (p. 67-71).
Knowing everybody is not the definition of a healthy church. In fact, it may be the definition of an unhealthy church.
To break this barrier the pastor has to begin working with groups and focusing on helping the church continue to reach out. This means that the pastor must spend more time outside the church with the unchurched than inside the church with the members. The pastor taking care of the membership is the primary reason small churches don’t grow. Instead of taking care of the members, the pastor should be growing the members to the point that they realize the mission of the church is to introduce people to Jesus Christ.
What do you think? Does this make sense?
Bridgeport is in the same situation. However, many people are asking, “Why SHOULD we get bigger?” (Did you address that question in a previous post I may have missed?)
I have not addressed it in a previous post. At FCC, I have addressed that head on several times from the pulpit and don’t hear that sentiment (outloud) anymore. I will recap “Why?” in the next couple days as a post.
Have you read The Myth of the 200 Barrier, by Kevin Martin? It’s a good little book, and makes some helpful points, especially in the way sociological barriers are involved.
I have not read that Dave. Thanks for telling me about it. I’ll have to pick it up.