How to Increase Attendance at a Small Church

According to Albert Einstein, the definition of insanity is "doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." This can directly apply to many situations, including attendance at your small church. If you are not satisfied with the number of attendees at your church, you can't remain stagnant and expect to draw the masses. Instead, you may have to think strategically in order to increase attendance at your small church.

Encourage your current members to be attend more consistently by explaining the importance of a strong core church body. When current church attendees become more regular, your Sunday services will instantly be more crowded.

Tell your current members to invite friends and family. It is essential that church members live out the mission of Christ and attract new visitors. These new visitors can become regular attenders and increase overall attendance on Sundays.

Know your audience. Adapt the mission of your church to meet the needs of your surrounding community. For example, if your church is located in an urban community, it is essential that your church is willing to serve and be advocates for the community. This will attract locals from the community.

Adapt your worship style based on your key demographic. For example, if your church is in a community of young adults, you may want to opt for a more contemporary worship style. Alternatively, if your church is in an older, more traditional community, a traditional worship style may be appropriate.

Hold special Sunday services once a month. Choose the same Sunday each month to hold a special, out-of-the-ordinary worship service. You can use seasonal events, like a Father's Day service, as themes for your special Sundays.

Provide food after service. Not only does food attract people, it also builds community and relationships. Church goers are more likely to regularly attend your small Church if they feel connected to the people of the church. Create a hospitality committee to coordinate refreshments for after the service.

Talk to your congregation. Ask them what it is they want or need from a Sunday service. You don't want to cater towards every individual's wants or needs, but gaining the perspectives of church members can be valuable in making informed changes.