[featured_image]In his book Shaped by God’s Heart, Milfred Manetrea talks about the need to become a new kind of church. He believes that churches must rediscover their reason to exist:
God’s Mission
To move your church to align with God’s Mission, he points out the importance of understanding your community. “Your church should not be an island in the community. Before you begin to reach out, begin with a good idea of who your neighbors are.” He suggests the following three questions to ask…
Study Your Community: 3 Questions
1. Who Lives Here?
The easiest way to find out who lives in your community is to look at demographic profiles indicating population and change trends.
2. What Does Your Community Need?
Conduct a community needs assessment with service providers in school, health care, human services, police departments, and other social agencies.
3. Do You Know Your Neighbors?
Unfortunately, in many churches the members cannot actually name those who live around them.
Today’s Missional Challenge
Determine the kinds of people who live around you, discover and meet their needs, and make some friends! That’s a good place to start!
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