We keep praying for an end to the coronavirus pandemic, but even when case numbers drop and it's safer to return to in-person gatherings, you might notice that not everyone is coming back to church.
Your Western USA regional team has been hearing that a lot lately—but please don't feel discouraged! While people might be leaving the church, they aren’t necessarily giving up on their faith. They may just be searching for different expressions of church or new rhythms of ministry where they can grow. It’s a challenge the church is facing, but it’s also an opportunity to share the gospel and disciple people in new ways.
That's why I'm excited about the work of Sonlight Community Church and The House for All Saints and Sinners in Lynden, Washington.
“Sonlight has its own unique strengths and capacities to reach the broader community … but we are aware of the fact that there are segments of this population that are probably not going to walk into the doors of Sonlight,” said Pastor Mike Slofstra.
That's why they planted The House (there's a link to the story below).
But I hear you. It can discouraging to watch church attendance and membership drop, but please don't be overwhelmed or afraid. We believe God is doing a new thing, and you and your church members have an opportunity to join God at work.
Please find a few resources in this newsletter, and my team and I are always excited to sit down with you and your church and discuss how the Holy Spirit might be leading you to be Christ's witnesses in your community and around the world.
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