Pastors feel a lot of pressure to be involved in outreach. There is often a double motivation: theologically to introduce people to Jesus and practically so their congregation in particular will grow.
How do you do this?
For many people, the key is programs. Put on as many events as you can and hopefully some of the connections will stick. I am all for programs. I think it is important to get people into the building to begin to demystify what the church is.
While I am definitely supportive of programs, my style leans more toward community involvement. I want to get out and develop relationships with people in the community.
This is rather surprising as I am an introvert. But actually, I much prefer the one-on-one conversation in the community than the excitement of a huge crowd.
Community involvement can look different depending on the opportunities. It may be joining a local club or organization. It may just be showing up at community events. I have even done this by writing letters to the editor of local papers on pressing issues.
This is not an either/or situation. It is not either programs or community involvement. Developing relationships within the community will likely increase involvement in programs.
I think the biggest difficulty for pastors with community involvement is that it doesn’t feel like “real ministry.” If the pastor is not sharing the gospel of giving a devotion, does it really count? Is just being present in the community an excuse for laziness?
Community involvement is a long-term posture. Relationships are organic and need to be treated as such. Don’t reject relationships just because they show no interest in attending your church.
In what ways do you get involved in your community?
