Why Starting An Affirming Church Can Help Your Community
If you are starting a brand new Christian church in your area, your goals will likely include building your congregation and giving back to your general area. If you have decided to open an affirming church, there are a number of ways that you can reach out to your community and even bring in people as future church members. Here are some ways that affirming churches make a difference.
Everyone feels free to come as they are
There are some people who have questions about Christianity, the bible, and religion in general but do not have a safe space where they feel they can come and ask these questions. Affirming churches encourage asking questions and growing in knowledge. Make it known that your church encourages questioning and welcomes opinions from people of any path. Affirming churches assure that people don't feel the need to act as if they believe, but to truly get gain an understanding, then commit to the lifestyle of a believer.
You will attract those who have had to leave other churches
LGBT persons especially are sometimes encouraged to change their ways or leave other churches. By opening your doors to those who have felt that Christianity would not accept them, you may soon find a congregation full of families and friends eager to help grow your church. Being an affirming church also means that you can attract leaders who are interested in preaching to and worshiping with people that may not be welcome in other congregations.
Younger people will be more interested
Tradition is something that can be lost on generations. Even if some youth choose to believe as their parents do, they may want to worship in a different manner and with a different congregation. Attracting youth to the church means that you get to help mentor and grow the next generation spiritually. Outreach programs for youth can also attract those who have never experienced a religious setting, but are curious about the life and understanding of believers. Reaching out to the youth is a sure fire way to continue your church growing in the next generations to come.
Outside social involvement is expected
If you want to roll up your sleeves and get your hands out there on the political, social, or legal front, this is an expectation in many affirming churches, rather than discouraged. By being able to go to protests, set up legal defense aid, and openly advocate for different forms of social justice, you can make a positive change in your community at large and reach a number of lives.