Amazing Grace Church & School was a thriving, friendly place. It was truly grace filled.
I remember the first time I visited. I arrived and there wasn’t a single open seat in the sanctuary. When I turned to leave, a voice behind me said, “Come on back! Here’s a seat.” A gentleman gave up his seat and stood for the entire service so I’d be comfortable. Then they asked every guest to stand, and the choir greeted us with a welcome song. I returned home that day feeling so light and free.
Fast forwarding a couple years, the church I now called home was quickly dwindling. We went from three services to two, and eventually down to one. The food pantry and several ministries had closed. And the private school that once served over 100 students withered to a preschool serving 23 children with a staff of eight. The school was absolutely essential to the community but had become a financial burden to the church.
People were downcast and longing for the glory days once again.
But the leadership wasn’t completely downhearted.
After several conversations, we concentrated on rebuilding the school.
Within just eight short weeks, enrollment was up to 99 children with a wait list. Within six months, we added an infant/toddler unit, an afterschool program, and were redesigning the school curriculum to add music, foreign language, and several other additions that were removed when the elementary school closed. Far from a burden, revenue had more than tripled as a result of the influx. And the program was now flourishing. At least six new full-time jobs were created for church members and community residents.
This is what can happen for your organization if you have hope! But it takes more than hope, it takes the right strategy for your congregation or organization. If you have been struggling to gain momentum with your outreach programs or to get members engaged, schedule a clarity call with me and let’s get you on the road to impacting the community you serve.
0 Comments