Grandpa's Church
I don't really like the phrase "assimilation" when used in reference to congregations.
"Assimilation" means "making similar". I'm not interested in producing clones or zombies.
Our church is full of all kinds of people -- and we celebrate our differences.
Perhaps, that's just a small town thing -- but the church growth adage, "Focus on a Demographic Target" doesn't fit very well here in the northwoods.
As our city population is 2100 -- if you're breathing, you're a target!!
The slogan: "This isn't your Granfather's Church" doesn't fly in Hayward -- at least if you want to have a growing, thriving ministry.
A Better Slogan for Hayward: "A Church You AND Your Grandfather will Love!"
Or, "Bring Grandpa with you to Church!"
When we're jamming, Grandpa might want to bring his earplugs -- but he'll love it when we sing, "When the Roll is Called up Yonder."
"Assimilation" means "making similar". I'm not interested in producing clones or zombies.
Our church is full of all kinds of people -- and we celebrate our differences.
Perhaps, that's just a small town thing -- but the church growth adage, "Focus on a Demographic Target" doesn't fit very well here in the northwoods.
As our city population is 2100 -- if you're breathing, you're a target!!
The slogan: "This isn't your Granfather's Church" doesn't fly in Hayward -- at least if you want to have a growing, thriving ministry.
A Better Slogan for Hayward: "A Church You AND Your Grandfather will Love!"
Or, "Bring Grandpa with you to Church!"
When we're jamming, Grandpa might want to bring his earplugs -- but he'll love it when we sing, "When the Roll is Called up Yonder."
It's interesting that you should post this today. I just finished writing an article this afternoon about the importance of building a multi-generational church. There's room in our church for all ages. Perhaps it is a small town/city/rural thing. Thanks for the timely article.
ReplyDeleteI have noticed for some people, they kind of taken the ownership way of thinking about worship. Some of the older folks feel very strongly that God will only meet them because of the style worship they are in
ReplyDeletegood point Mark G.
ReplyDeleteThe generations need to learn from each other -- and to love each other.
doug,
ReplyDeleteyou're right -- and there are also younger folks who feel strongly that God only dwells in their favorite style of music
The Holy Spirit was at work in the book of Acts during Pentecost among people of various cultures. Heaven in the book of Revelation will be a place of great multitude of people from every tribe, nation and language. God transcends generations and culture. A church fully submitted to the Lord will celebrate unity in diversity. Those who believe otherwise will be greatly disappointed in heaven.
ReplyDelete