In an earlier post we looked at Nine Common Characteristics of Failing Churches. Now let’s look at some corresponding characteristics of Churches that are thriving.

1. Congregational vision

Strong congregations have a clear vision and ownership of their congregational goals. Leaders have communicated goals across the congregation and enlisted active member support.

2. Preachers engage listeners

Today’s learners are unaccustomed to learning through listening alone. The latest generation has been trained from their earliest years in nursery school with interactive learning. Today’s preachers must adapt and find ways to engage listeners in their message both during worship and throughout the week.

3. Worship that looks to fill the needs of all

Congregations must honor some traditions but also be open to embracing the worship needs of new people. The goal should be meaningful worship for each worshiper and that leaves a wide door open for seekers, the newly faithful and  long-time members.

4. Fostering of spiritual gifts

A belief in the discipleship of all believers and the fostering of individual gifts. People need to feel that they contribute to the mission of a congregation more than just its monetary support.

5. Emphasis on small group ministries

A person’s faith grows by being nurtured by close friends and relationships which are not likely to happen in large groups. Successful churches create environments for this type of congregational cultivation.

6. Involvement in the community

We are raising a generation that has been taught service-learning in schools. They expect to see their churches similarly engaged. Churches are in a prime position to help them channel these habits as they leave the academic world. It is also part of any church’s mission!

7. Servant/leadership is modeled throughout the congregation

8. Sharing both blame and credit

Congregations must be willing to try new ideas. Not all of them will be effective. Successful churches learn and grow from their ministries’ successes and failures without getting caught up in the blame game. They foster a habit of constantly reassessing and making changes to programs and plans as needed.