New Year’s Resolutions for Churches
On a recent trip, several Atlantic Conference leaders – John Pletcher, Craig Sider, Doug Sider, and Nate Yoder – used the driving time for creative thinking about New Year's resolutions for congregations. As you set direction for the new year, you may want to consider one or more for your congregation (others may provide a laugh)!
- Have a leadership prayer and vision retreat.
- Pray as much for your community as you do for the needs of church members.
- Identify and mentor emerging leaders in your church.
- Wait at the mailbox daily to see if the next issue of the BIC magazine has arrived.
- Talk with community leaders to discover local needs or ministry opportunities. Then surprise your community with an act of generosity—something free!
- Mobilize a team for short-term overseas missions, a local project, or partnering with a church plant.
- Take a bold step of faith—remember that failure is not fatal!
- Nominate your pastor for General Secretary.
- Encourage church members to regularly invite un-churched friends into their homes.
- Evaluate your Christian Education program by asking, “Is what we are doing helping people to love better?”
- Make your baptismal celebration a true celebration—throw a party.