Invitational Ministry

Move Your Church from Membership to Discipleship

by Laurene Beth Bowers

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Pub Date Jan 31 2014 | Archive Date Dec 05 2014

Chalice Press

Christian | Religion & Spirituality

Description

Invitational Ministry takes the awkwardness and guesswork out of inviting others by equipping church members to talk about their faith in the form of a sincere invitation — creating disciples out of members. This isn't another book on evangelism — it's so much more.

Based on her experience leading several churches to real numerical growth, Laurene Beth Bowers presents practical strategies to help congregations turn around declining numbers and thrive once again. By creating change within the current membership and teaching them how to effectively reach out to others, Invitational Ministry moves beyond usual evangelism strategies. Pastors and church leaders are guided through a process of identifying whom to invite, what kinds of invitational events are likely to reach certain groups, and how to make your event successful.

Advance Praise

“Combining intelligence, wisdom and chutzpah Laurene Bowers’ newest book will challenge the church to re-claim a common sense approach to numerical growth.” -Thomas Webster, associate minister for pastoral leadership & discernment, Penn Central Conference (UCC)

“The churches of Penn Central Conference have been deeply and positively affected by what Laurene has to teach about ‘invitational hospitality.’ Her words ring true, especially as, in her previous ministries, she has helped one congregation after another grow numerically and faithfully.” -Marja L. Coons-Torn, conference minister, Penn Central Conference (UCC)

“Inviting someone to church can be scary—for you and the person you are asking. Laurene’s approach to invitational ministry takes the fear factor out of asking and creates opportunities for new people to experience our church in new and exciting ways.” -Jeffrey B. Lukens, Pastor, Lordship Community Church (UCC), Stratford, Connecticut

“We have found the concept of invitational ministry very exciting and helpful ... Our weight-loss support group, community talent show, the Fall and Easter Festivals, include those who are new to the church. These programs provide entry points into faith for those who may not know that they are searching for spiritual answers.” -Bruce Bouchard, pastor, Grace United Church of Christ, Hanover, Pennsylvania

“Through Dr. Bowers’s insight and leadership, we have grown and become revitalized in our faith. Utilizing her suggestions recently, our church put together a community wide invitational event that brought in over 400 people.” -Elizabeth Nocheck, pastor, Salem United Church of Christ, Columbia, Pennsylvania