Donate to Charity for Every Connection Card Turned In

For every connection card turned in by a first-time visitor at the end of a service, offer to donate a predetermined amount of money to a local charity. Consider adopting a charity for a season as a church, choosing a new charity each month, or giving your congregation a handful of charities to vote on. This emphasis on outreach will show newcomers immediately that your church is outward-focused and concerned with and involved in its community. It will also encourage immediate interaction with newcomers and a better way to gauge first-time attandance.

James P. Long
James P. Longhttp://JamesPLong.com

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?

When Familiar Becomes Careless

God wants to be in a relationship with his people that’s not marked by fear but love. Not apprehension, but an appreciation of his great grace and compassion.

Grover Park Baptist Church: A Thread of Hope

At auction, the quilts go for hundreds or even thousands of dollars that directly help women and children in need, providing funds for baby and maternity items at the pregnancy resource center.

There’s No Contradiction Between God’s Empowerment and Our Efforts to Battle Sin

The Christian life is not a choice between loving and trusting Jesus, and making an effort to avoid temptation and sin. It is not either/or—it is both/and.