Faster Connections, Lasting Community: Effective Church Assimilation with Greg Curtis
Jan 2, 2025
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In this discussion, Greg Curtis, Director of First Steps at Eastside Christian Church and founder of Climbing the Assimilayas, shares his expertise on church assimilation. He highlights how newcomers often gauge a church's vibe online before attending, making a strong digital presence essential. Curtis emphasizes evolving engagement strategies in a post-COVID landscape, focusing on fostering community through volunteerism and inclusivity. With insightful tips on making church platforms welcoming, he explores how to adapt assimilation practices for lasting connections.
Churches must adapt their assimilation strategies by prioritizing online experiences as newcomers often vet congregations digitally before attending in person.
Volunteer opportunities are now the primary connection point for newcomers, creating a sense of belonging that enhances community engagement within the church.
Deep dives
Embracing Church Growth Opportunities
Churches experiencing growth should consider launching new locations to maintain momentum and outreach. The podcast emphasizes that now, more than ever, is the right time to embark on this journey, especially after a period of hesitation. New resources, such as the 'Launch a New Location in 150 Days or Less' toolkit, provide practical guidance for churches looking to expand. This toolkit includes a step-by-step plan and readiness assessment tools to help churches determine their preparedness for such an initiative.
The Importance of In-Person Gatherings
In-person church experiences remain irreplaceable despite the rise of digital platforms. Engaging and unique in-person gatherings are essential for fostering community and connection among congregants. The discussion highlights that personal interactions create a sense of belonging, which cannot be replicated online. Church leaders should focus on enhancing these experiences to draw in those who have pre-vetted their church online before attending physically.
The Shift in Visitor Engagement
Visitor engagement strategies must adapt to the evolving landscape of church attendance. The transition from a model focused on traditional assimilation pathways to an emphasis on online experiences is crucial. Guests often vet churches through their websites and virtual services before attending, making the online presence a vital aspect of their initial connection. Churches should ensure their online experiences are welcoming and informative to encourage visitors to participate physically.
Rethinking Volunteerism as a Path to Connection
Volunteer opportunities are becoming the primary connection point for newcomers, surpassing small group participation. People seek to feel needed and wanted, and volunteering provides that crucial sense of belonging. The podcast discusses how churches can effectively engage new guests by inviting them to volunteer rather than solely focusing on small groups. This shift fosters a community atmosphere where individuals can develop relationships while contributing meaningfully to the church.
Welcome back to the unSeminary podcast. To kick off the new year, we’re focusing on key “Unpredictions”—timeless topics that are consistent and crucial for church growth in 2025 and beyond. In this episode, we’re joined by Greg Curtis, the Director of First Steps and Content Development at Eastside Christian Church and founder of Climbing the […]
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