How many people do you know that “used to go” to church but just don’t anymore? How many people do you know who once faithfully attended a church but quit for some reason? According to research conducted by the Southern Baptist Publication Ministry, Life-Way, the top two life-situations that prompt adults to stop attending church include being “too busy” (19%) and “burden with family/home responsibilities” (17%). The next most common category of reasons involve disenchantment with pastor / church; this accounts for 37% of the formerly churched. But there is hope! The same research shows that many of these people would be willing to try church again, if someone simply invited them Back to Church.
“41% of the formerly churched said they would return to the local church if a friend or acquaintance invited them” (Thom Rainer / Sam Rainer Outreach Magazine, Jan. 2007).
Persons who previously attended church regularly are willing to come Back to Church for a variety of reasons. Some may want to re-connect with fellow believers, re-connect with God, or just to return to what was once an important part of their lives. Some people know it will bring them closer to God. Others may sense a void in their lives. Some people may miss the friendships that helped them through tough times. And others may want to return because they want to fill the emotional or spiritual gaps they’ve felt since leaving the Church the first time. Whatever the reason, some people just need a little encouragement! The Apostle Paul wrote, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25).
On Sunday, September 13, 2009, I encourage all of our members to invite previously churched family and friends Back to Church. As individuals and families return to school and work routines after summer, invite them Back to Church as part of the National Back to Church campaign. There are lots of exciting things happening at Central Baptist, and I want people to experience the love of God and love one another. And, as one researcher wrote, “a simple, yet powerful invitation is all it may take to prompt a homecoming.”
See you in Church,
Pastor Ivan
