James P. Long

James P. Long was formerly the editor of Outreach magazine and the author of a number of books, including Why Is God Silent When We Need Him the Most?

Offer an Online Portal to Make Options for Growth Easy to Recognize

Hosanna Lutheran Church attributes GROWlink online program to the church’s retention.

The Outreach 100 Fastest-Growing and Largest Churches in America

View the Outreach 100 lists online for the first time ever and see what's trending in the largest and fastest-growing churches today.

Emphasize Relationship Building

Cornerstone Christian Fellowship offers “small churches” to create intimate connections within a large church.

Offer Small Groups Trimesterly, With Start and End Dates

Next Level Church offers trimesterly small groups to account for the community’s snowbird culture.

Let Newcomers Know They Can Belong Before They Believe

Flatirons Community Church appeals to its non-religious community by disarming them when they begin to explore Christ.

Match Guests With Five New Friends and a Starter Ministry Within Three Months

Substance Church uses Empowerment Track assimilation process to get new attendees involved.

Idea Starter: Use the Right Form of Advertising to Reach Your Community

Consider what methods of advertising will work most effectively to reach and speak to your target demographic

Idea Starter: Leave a Light On

Make your church the light people see at night