How can I create an environment that is both worth attending and spiritually engaging? 

Why should I get out of my pajamas today and physically show up? Our goal is to create a space that is inviting and safe, both physically and emotionally. Aim to create an atmosphere of openness and respect, where everyone is welcomed and encouraged to participate. Incorporate activities that are meaningful and spiritual, as well as encourage active listening and dialogue. Additionally, provide an opportunity for reflection, allowing individuals to process and reflect on wherever they find themselves on their own spiritual journey. Finally, make sure to give people time to connect with each other, fostering strong community bonds. 

How can I best equip and empower my volunteers to minister to people beyond our church walls? 

What are the necessary resources, training, vision and support needed to minister to people Monday through Saturday? Maybe you need to offer workshops, seminars, and other forms of professional development, as well as providing materials such as books, supplies, and other materials that are pertinent to actually speaking the good news. Additionally, it is important to celebrate when your team shows up in the lives of those they are ministering to. Finally, be sure to provide volunteers with ample time for rest and reflection, as well as a sense of camaraderie by connecting them with others who are also involved in the ministry.

Where are families actually partner with us in our ministry? 

How can I equip parents to be better spiritual partners in discipling their children? Have you ever evaluated what is actually working? Do YOU participate in the very things you are offering to the families in your church? Today looks very different than 10 years ago and yet many churches still have the same model from 10 years ago. Have a conversation with the families in your church to see what’s working and consider killing off the sacred cows that no longer produce results.

Where have I successfully equipped and empowered our people to live out their faith in the world? 

Remember when the world shut down and almost over night the average volunteer in your church no longer had a role? What can you do today to help your team understand their calling beyond just a weekend service? What could you do today so that if your church ever had to shut the doors for a couple of weeks, ministry actually thrives?

How can I help people develop a lifelong love of reading and studying the Bible?

In a world where everything is available with just a few taps on the phone, how are you doing at developing a love for God’s Word? If you took a look at your personal screen time, are you setting the example in personal Bible study? Apps like the YouVersion Bible App have resources for every age and stage to help readers fall in love with the Bible. Make sure those in your care know how to grow and feed themselves. 

What methods of communication are currently effectively?

Currently, the most effective methods of communication are those that are digital, such as email, text messages, and social media. These methods allow for quick and easy communication across long distances, as well as up-to-date information sharing. Additionally, video has become an increasingly popular form of communication and most of us have everything we need just hanging out in our pocket. Don’t fall into the same rut year after year hoping for the same results because the world has changed.

How can I create engaging digital experiences that appeal to people in the digital age? 

Being a church leader today requires an understanding of the latest technology and trends, as well as a clear vision for how the experience will benefit the user. It’s important to create experiences that are fun and user-friendly, allowing people to easily navigate the digital experience. Additionally, incorporating interactive elements such as videos, on screen games, and polls can help to engage users in a more meaningful way. Finally, creating an experience that is visually appealing, with personalized content and branding, will help ensure that people are drawn to and remain engaged in the digital experience. What does your ministry need to improve today for a better digital experience? Actually sit on your couch at home and watch your live stream to gain some immediate understanding. 

What methods can I use to foster a sense of community and belonging among the people in my ministry?

When you look at your lobby do you see friends talking with one another as visitors walk by with a simple hello? How do I create an environment where people are not only friendly with one another but welcoming to outsiders? As with most areas of life, balance is needed. Yes be friendly with your church community but don’t get so caught up in your familiar faces that you miss out on everyone else looking for someone to actually connect with. Each week, a goal should be to both pray with someone you know as well as having a real conversation with someone you just met.

What strategies can I use to equip people to make wise decisions in the digital age?

Who would have thought 20 years ago that part of the role of a pastor was educating the church on the potential risks of digital platforms and encouraging them to practice safe digital citizenship. Maybe something you can focus on is providing resources, such as articles, videos, or classes, that explain the importance of privacy settings, the potential for cyberbullying, and the consequences of oversharing. Additionally, church leaders can encourage their members to seek out trustworthy sources of information, to be mindful of the impact of their online activities, and to always think twice before posting online. Finally, you need to lead by example by setting standards for digital behavior and modeling good digital habits. If you would be embarrassed to share your screen time, then my guess is you need to personally make a change. 

What are some new and innovative ways we can reach out to our community?

As church leaders, it is our responsibility to reach out to our community in fresh ways. To do this, we must think outside the box and come up with innovative ways to spread the word. Some ideas may include creating online social media campaigns or maybe launching a new YouTube channel to bring families together. Maybe collaborating with local businesses and organizations to form partnerships that are mutually beneficial. By utilizing new and creative methods, we can reach more people and expand our church’s reach.

Invest in the resources and training needed to make your church a place that is both worth attending and spiritually engaging. Equip and empower your team to minister to the community in new and innovative ways. Your call is too big to simply try the same old thing, so determine your next step before simply moving onto the next thing!