Local Congregations

It's really troubling that it seems that small, local congregations are becoming more difficult to sustain. The economies of scale of large congregations produce a more fiscally manageable and consistent operational base, especially in larger cities and metropolitan areas.

Over the next few years, transportation will likely become more difficult and certainly more expensive, and this may bring a return to the local congregation. We probably need to spend some time keeping those smaller congregations vital, so they will be there when they are really needed.

The other important emphasis (listen to this UMC) is to keep all the pulpits - large and small - full of the Bible, the Holy Spirit, and the full message of Jesus. The responsibility for this rests with denominations, pastors, lay leadership, and every Christian, everywhere. The only way our plans can fail is if we fail to plan.