| Within a year of officially joining a congregation, 62% of new members are less active in the church than at the time they joined. Twenty-five percent simply stop coming within the first year of official membership. Evangelism and outreach are important, and growing churches have learned how to practice warm hospitality to new people. But new members don't continue involvement unless they are thoroughly assimilated.
The level of hospitality in many congregations just doesn't go deeply enough to connect with people at a level that will keep them coming and isn't wide enough to help newer members really feel that they are as much a part of the community of faith as longer-term members. In this ground-breaking book, you'll learn:
Why so many people get hurt or disillusioned by their church experiences and how to prevent that from happening.
The DNA of a radically inclusive church. How to remove race, income, sexual orientation, social status, pilitics, and disabilities as barries to full inclusion.
The changes churches must make if they want deep hospitality and full assimilation for both new and long-time members.
Effective strategies for reaching more children, youth, and young adults.
How vital worship, prayer, and study can bring a church alive, resulting in more members, a deeper commitment to peace, and a wider concern for mission.
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