Customize Church

Newly released data from a major survey finds that most U.S. adults range far from knowing or caring about the distinctive teachings of their professed faith.
They believe overwhelmingly (92%) in God and 58% say they pray at least once a day. But when it comes to specific religions — the teachings of the Southern Baptist Convention, the Roman Catholic Church or scores of other denominations — they're all over the map, finds the latest data from the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life. - New York Times article

History has demonstrated that the church, in terms of programmatic themes and formats, tends to be influenced by the consumerist preferences of popular culture. The recent Pew Forum survey supports that observation.

With this survey and others finding that the traditional attendance patterns of church participants are changing, pastors and lay leaders should carefully consider the data. These surveys uncover an increase in the popularity of non-traditional church formats as well as the inclusion of some individualistic approaches to worship. Many worshippers are combining traditional and non-traditional formats to express their religious convictions.

My assessment is that the survey results are indicative of a more recent consumer movement that values co-creation and customization of products and services. Personalized products, custom furnishings, tailored wardrobes are increasingly popular and reflect an individualized approach to consuming. Congregational leadership should consider the trend as a warranted approach.

Past consumer trends have not always served the church well and in many cases have detracted from ministry impact, however, co-creation and customization have components that show promise for ministry efforts. The American church has become impersonal using an approach that aggregates large audiences into congregational settings. Individuals report experiencing a feeling of isolation of disconnection in today’s church that is design around the group experience.

Consider appointing several work groups at your church to explore the customization of church. By addressing individuals and their specific spiritual needs, churches can add another layer to their ministry approach. Review how attendees interact with the large settings, classes and web portals to create a more personal connection. Test ways in which “spiritual students” design their own study curriculum including the appointment of a personal mentor and a schedule of classes they choose to attend.

Creative approaches that allow the attendee to create a spiritual routine and agenda that fits their personal needs will likely be a welcomed addition to your ministry array in this increasingly customized consumer culture.

Courtesy of Trend Ping