Desmond Barrett, an experienced pastor and author of 'Helping Small Churches Win Guests,' shares his insights on revitalizing small church congregations. He discusses how to enhance the guest experience through facility improvements and effective communication. Barrett emphasizes that attracting young families isn't the sole solution—true growth stems from authentic relationships and intentional community engagement. Listeners will learn practical strategies for creating a welcoming atmosphere that fosters connections and encourages spiritual commitment.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Reimagine Church Facility for Guests
Assess your church facility from a guest's perspective, starting with simple improvements like cleaning the parking lot and maintaining the lawn.
Small visible changes create a welcoming impression and can prepare your church for future guests.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Have Hard Talks About Facility Care
Have honest conversations about needed facility repairs and maintenance despite resistance.
Prepare your church building thoughtfully to welcome guests as an act of ministry and love.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Celebrate Facility Improvements Openly
Share updates about facility improvements openly and celebrate each completed task during services.
Visible progress encourages guests and members, signaling the church is alive and growing.
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This book provides practical strategies and insights for small churches aiming to enhance their outreach efforts and effectively welcome and retain guests. Desmond Barrett emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment and fostering genuine connections with newcomers. The book covers various aspects, including reimagining church facilities, improving communication, and shifting from program-oriented to mission-focused approaches. It encourages church leaders to re-evaluate their existing practices and implement changes that resonate with today's society. It also provides actionable steps for building relationships and integrating guests into the church community, ultimately helping small churches thrive.
Karl Vaters interviews Desmond Barrett about how small churches can do a better job at reaching, welcoming, and keeping guests.
5 Options When a Church Property is Too Big for the Congregation, with Desmond Barrett
Karl Vaters talks with Desmond Barrett, the author of Helping Small Churches Win Guests: Preparing to Increase Attendance, about a subject that is a challenge for a growing number of congregations. What can you do when a church facility that was built to hold hundreds of people has just a handful or worshipers left?