Help! Our team is shrinking

There are many reasons why teams shrink. Less people available to volunteer; church is shrinking overall; purpose hasn't been kept in focus and current team has lost their passion.

There will always be people in your neighbourhood who need to hear the Good News. There will always be need for community. There will always be people who need help, whether it be with their confidence, skills, or general life support. There will always be people who need Jesus to be revealed to them.

Widen the vision

Churches don't always find it natural to work together. A question often asked is, "But what happens if someone comes to faith. Which church will they go to?" This question indicates that there's a small mindset. "Our church is the one hosting this group; therefore, our church should ‘get’ the growth.” Instead, we need to think kingdom. If someone comes to faith, they'll go wherever they like – might be your church because its small and friendly. It might be another because they're funky and loud. It might be the church connected with a friend they have because there's relationship.

Be real about the accountability

Many groups connected with mainly Ministries have worked with a multi-church team. Each person coming aboard is made aware that one church has relationship with mainly Ministries and as such, if a major decision had to be made, they would make it. How many times has that happened? FEW. So few, it's not an issue of concern. Where people are given a voice, knowing they will be heard and considered, but that the decision might not go in their favour, they're comfortable to join, participate, pray, and contribute.

Take action

Call up local churches. Tell them about this missional need in your community (not in your church!). Make sure they know your purpose – to reveal Jesus. Talk to people you know who attend other churches.

If your Minister or anyone else in the church leadership attends meetings with other churches, ask them to talk about the need for combined mission and ministry volunteer support.

Pray

Ask Holy Spirit to go ahead of you, your church leadership, and your current team in these endeavours.