We cannot deny that the active participation of church members in the church ministry is a constant challenge for pastors and leaders.
Do you know how many or what percentage of your church could be active participants?
Do you have data on the different levels of participation in your church?
Do the church leaders consider “participation” one of their planning factors?
The 2014 Church Statistics of the Baptist Churches of New Zealand published reported that attendance in Baptist churches is declining, but “attendance”, whether it is declining or growing, is not an indicator of participation.
Your church might have a growing attendance, but if only a tiny percentage are actively involved, appreciating and participating in the church’s life, it’s just a matter of time, and the membership will dwindle.
In a multicultural church, the participation of everyone is crucial so that the church will not marginalise a person or a group. A true multicultural church captures and integrates the heart-worship of all ethnic groups.
It’s challenging to command active participation in a mono-ethnic majority group. It is more difficult pastoring a multi-ethnic congregation.
Yes, the church constantly confronts the issue of members’ participation.
There are two prevailing challenges on ministry participation that every pastor and leader faces.
- How can I motivate the members to participate actively?
- How can I grow and sustain the active participation of the church members?
The first two goals of the MAP Toolkit deals with the appreciation aspect.
Goal No. 3 focuses on participation.
Thus, the MAP Toolkit aims to develop the dynamics of the church from a pastor-centred (or leadership-centred) congregation to a participatory and empowered church community.
The participatory nature of the MAP Tools will change the atmosphere of the church.
The more participative the members become, the more empowered they will be.
An empowered church member is someone who knows how to implement the MAP toolkit.
Are you a pastor who is happy to empower your members?
If your answer is “Yes”, the MAP Toolkit is for you.
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