The purpose of the Leader’s Guide, Connecting, is to help congregants understand the results of their U. S. Congregational Life Survey. The Guide is “for congregational reflection.” Four learning sessions are provided for participants to take others’ perceptions seriously and playfully. The fun is in the differences noted in looking at this snapshot of your […]

The U.S. Congregational Life Survey offers three Leader Guides for use with the reports that participating congregations receive showing their congregation’s results. Connecting — A Leader’s Guide for Congregational Reflection Using the U.S. Congregational Life Survey will help you and your congregation make the most of your first 8-page report — the Connections Report. The […]

The research says congregations using the following strategies or approaches grow in numbers and ministry effectiveness: Strong churches welcome new people Increase the number of worship visitors. Increase the visibility of the congregation in the community (e.g., Web site, paid newspaper and telephone book ads, good outdoor signage, participation in community events). Encourage members to […]

The U.S. Congregational Life Survey provided a unique look at what works in the areas of evangelism and church growth. Responses from samples of fast-growing churches helped us debunk common myths. 1. Only congregations in growing areas are adding members Fact: Three strengths are positive predictors of growth — Caring for Children and Youth, Welcoming […]

Our research shows that new people in congregations across the U.S. (people who began attending during the previous five years) fall into four categories: 9% are first-timers with no church background. 23% are returnees who were not attending anywhere before coming to their new congregation. 31% are switchers who changed denominations or faith groups. 38% […]

Many people think that—because every American community has Catholics, Methodists, Baptists, etc.—every congregation operates in the same context. Not so! Dispersion: Of 149 major U.S. religious bodies, only 20 denominational groups (including Muslims and Jews) reported adherents in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Concentration: But many of these 20 groups’ adherents are […]

Congregations that expect local population growth to automatically increase their numerical membership often experience disappointment 35% of numerically declining congregations are located in growing-population areas. 24% of numerically plateaued congregations are located in growing-population areas. 38% of numerically growing congregations are located in growing-population areas. At least a dozen factors fuel the numerical growth of […]