But behind the overall figures, we're concerned that the number of children in our church has fallen substantially. So we're reflecting carefully and praying in order to understand more clearly the reasons for the change and also to seek God's leading in response.
The attendances at our all-age worship service last Sunday, and on the corresponding Sunday in 2003, illustrate the point really well. The proportion of adults is shown on these charts in red, children in blue.
The District Church Council (DCC) has been considering these issues and has committed to two one-hour prayer meetings, to which the whole church is invited. These are on 4 November, from 7.30 to 8.30pm in the Barnabas Centre, and on 22 November, from 6.30 to 7.30pm in the Church.
You can also read the full analysis that the DCC is exploring.
1 comments:
Hi Simon
I like the attached article - very balanced.
For what it is worth, the hand full of times we joined St Paul's, when Hilary was there, I noticed the small number of children but also the welcoming nature. It still felt a 'young' (and by that, I mean young at heart, vibrant) church, despite the few children present.
I suspect you are facing up to a 'problem' that many churches have. Your reports refers to some of the challenges, and I would think there is a careful balancing act between ministering in church and ministering to those who don't or can't attend a 10.00am Sunday service.
There are a large number of successful and popular clubs and activities for children and young people running in and around Oadby. And maybe there is scope for outreach here? I know of some church families who rarely attend Sunday service because, for them, to keep the Sabbath, means actually being with family. At least one family has moved church so they can, as a family, go to a Saturday evening service. They see this as an opportunity to maintain weekly worship and communion whilst keeping a whole day free for family.
Perhaps it is worth considering where the Dads are on Sunday morning? And why they are there? If they are at home, is it the only time they have to 'do nothing'?
If, however, the situation is that families with young people are not moving to the area, that is, in fact, a bigger problem than just for the church. Your report details the issues the church will face if that is the case but you could replace church with community. Schools will face problems if attendance falls (your report points to one schools response – to fill spaces with people from outside the community), parks will cease to be maintained and families with young children will not move the area if there are not other children for them to play with and become friends. If that progresses, then the whole community will age. Who will look after that ageing community? Now, that feels like a real issue for the church to work on.
I will pray for your prayer meetings - for discernment of God's will on this important matter.
God Bless
Jonathan
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