This is the fourth of five chapters in a 25 part blog series titled: The Five Elements of a Fully Implemented Connections Strategy, published over a five week period. Everything I have posted here is the result of my own personal experiences, from serving on church staffs, volunteering as a lay leader, and being brought in as a paid consultant. It is my hope that these posts will help you and your church get better at connecting with guests, not simply to increase your attendance and membership, but ultimately to grow the body of Christ. Implementing a Connections strategy (or “Assimilation” strategy) is a long term process, and one that relies on a culture of continual improvement. This chapter has five entries, which will all be linked below the post as they are published.
4.4 Topical Electives. “Come on, are you for real? Like we REALLY need you to tell us what a ‘Topical Series’ is? Be serious…”
Every church already has some kind of topical series being offered. I want you to think about your “WHY” and how you connect guests to Jesus. You know your culture and your context better than I do. Who are the people in your neighborhood? What do they need? What are they searching for? This isn’t about growing your attendance numbers. It is about connecting guests to Jesus, and to your people.
So, when we think of connecting with new faces, consider some topics that are relevant to the actual people you’re trying to reach.
Again, you’re not picking a topic to simply “attract” people. You’re looking for ways to reach out and provide exactly what they need. Some Examples?
- 6 weeks about how to be a good parent
- 4 weeks special closed group for couples struggling with infertility
- A dynamic 10 week series on Jesus from the book of Colossians (see above graphic)
- A “Financial Peace” series signup.
- Something I didn’t think of that you may already be doing
The goal isn’t even getting people into groups; it is about serving them, and inviting them to follow Jesus with you.
- What are the issues people are facing day in and day out in your community?
- Is there a way your church can help lead people to Jesus through offering answers amid to real life struggles and successes?
- Do any of your topical groups tie into others ways your church serves others?
- How will these groups directly mirror the mission and vision of your church?
NEXT: 4.5 Serving In The Church
Main Series Page: The Five Elements of a Fully Implemented Connections Strategy