Steve, our church seems to be at a stable population of about 200
(3 or 4 years ago it was a couple dozen).
Every year, the church has a phone-a-thon, during which all listed phone numbers of residences in the area are called. The callers introduce themselves and ask if the person answering the phone has a church they are attending. If yes, they are thanked for their time. If no, they are invited to be put on our mailing list for a short while so they can read what our church has to offer and be notified of the Easter service. About 1 in every 10 wants to be on the mailing list. About 1 in every 100 comes to church, and the church has been growing that way, every year.
It seems to be a slow-grower and sometimes I wonder if it isn't because it is in a more affluent part of town. The poor are blessed in spirit, as Jesus said, and as you have noticed, for example, in your fishing experiences in Mexico.
I'll write a little more, via email, since I just got one started to you, to accompany forwarding latest msg re mixup of Bread of Life and the other church.
John |
