April
Costs and Benefits
Recently I was asked by a member of First Lutheran Church not directly connected to Loaves & Fishes if I could communicate more about L&F to alleviate some members fears that L&F will hasten the closing of the doors of First Lutheran Church. I understand fears as we all have them,but I ask people that only see the costs of a Ministry to think about and examine the benefits of an “outward” (community) Ministry.
Most of us know that mainstream Churches are in decline and have been for many years. Many books have been written by Church Scholars and Historians about why mainstream Churches are in decline. I have read a few of these books including one recommended by Dan Feaster, who facilitated listening sessions at our Church, called “Canoeing the Mountains” that I recommend to all that are concerned and wondering how Churches can survive and thrive in these uncertain times for Churches. Another book I can recommend is a Book called “Holy Currencies” that weas a Church will be talking about much more going forward.
Research has shown that Churches that fear and focus on running out of money are the most likely to close their doors. It may seem counterintuitive but the more focus on money leads to more shrinking of the Church expenses the more likely that Church is to close. While they have many things to offer its members it offers little or nothing to the community outside their doors so do not grow and slowly die out. This model of Church is known as the “Country Club” model of Church.
Research has shown that Churches that not only survive but thrive have Ministries that are outward looking. These Churches engage their community, serve a need or needs in the community and are viewed as relevant to the community. What are the benefits of the L&F Ministry to First Lutheran and to the community? First Lutheran is receiving much attention from the community because of L&F. While First Lutheran has been a part of the community for a long time it’s surprising the number of calls Linda and I get asking where First Lutheran is located by people that live in Beaver Dam, either to get a meal or to find out how they can volunteer.
How do we offer something to our community that sets us apart? L&F is part of the answer. We are becoming known as a Church that is serving our community. I can’t put a price tag on that but if I am a community member looking for a Church to attend this could be a reason to be a part of First Lutheran (and we do have people that were not associated with First coming to First because of L&F). L&F offers members of our Church a way to live out their faith as well as members of other Churches and people who are not interested in being a formal member of a Church but want to help others.
I invite you to talk to a core volunteer either from First Lutheran, another Church, or community member why L&F is important to them. You will hear a variety of reasons, the overarchingthemes will be serving others and being part of the L&F community that has a culture of love, respect, and joy. Talk to the volunteer groups from the community that are coming in and helping serve what L&F means to them. Our volunteer groups are signing up for multiple dates because they want to be a part of this community ministry.
I have heard from several First members that say how proud they are to be a part of a Church that shows by their actions that they believe in following Jesus example. Many of these individuals are unable to volunteer with L&F for a variety of reasons but offer their moral support and often their financial support.
I haven’t mentioned the benefit to community members that need or want a hot meal. I invite anyone to come and talk to the individuals in their cars about L&F and what it means to them. Serving a meal gives us an opportunity to connect with our guests and to let them know that they matter and are loved. Much of what I write cannot be put into dollars and cents. I believe that the L&F Ministry is one of the reasons First Lutheran will not only survive but thrive for years to come.