When you don’t feel connected at church…

A large church in Melbourne did a survey of people who had left their church to find out why they stopped coming. Most lamented that they didn’t feel connected or part of the community. There was a startling finding though...

Over 90% of those surveyed had never joined a Growth Group or ministry team. In other words they were not involved in any way besides turning up on Sundays. Being a large congregation they got lost in the crowd on Sundays and made no friends. Very soon they gave up and left.

Many times over the years people have said to me they don’t feel connected at church. I’ve noticed exactly the same thing. They had taken no steps to get involved. They didn’t attend a Growth Group or serve in a team. They wanted people to approach and befriend them, but didn’t approach others themselves. Often they weren’t very regular even for church services.

On Sunday Craig shared about our Growth Groups at DAC. It was great to hear the stories of new and old DAC members enjoying their groups, feeling connected and growing in the Lord. It is so good to experience church in the large group on Sunday and a small group during the week. 

Alex Williams (10am) shared with me about his group: "This year, we’ve both been encouraged by our fortnightly Growth Group, utilising the prepared Bible studies to dig deeper, including when we have done the Bible Studies together at home during an off week."

Lyndel Boardman (10am) shared: "I love Growth Groups to help me go deeper in the word & hear how others are impacted by the same Scripture, gain knowledge & wisdom from them." 

If you are keen to join a group please have a chat to Craig McCorkindale (craig@daptoanglican.org.au).

Grace and Peace,
Mark