We’ve just come through Easter, a time when many churches in America experience near record attendance. The coronavirus changed all of that this year, of course.
Congregations are being wonderfully innovative, and many are streaming their services on their websites or through social media channels. Some are even reporting that their online metrics suggest they’re reaching more with the Gospel than ever before.
It’s just like the Christian church to thrive in crisis!
But not every church is thriving and reaching more people. Many small churches – which actually make up the majority of congregations in America – are struggling.
With no people in the pews, there’s no offering plate to pass, and giving has dropped significantly. But the pastor still needs to feed his family. The church still needs to pay the utility bill.
So, where are the funds going to come from if the people who usually drop their offering in the plate don’t adjust their method of giving – or have no job from which to donate?
My friend and former NFL tight end Benjamin Watson recently joined me to discuss this very really challenge.
Benjamin has been with us before here on Focus on the Family, when we talked about his great book, The New Dad Playbook. You probably know Benjamin Watson from his 16 years in the NFL, where he played for several teams, including the New England Patriots. He retired this spring.
You’ll also remember that Benjamin joined us in Times Square last year for our special event, Alive from New York, where he delivered an inspired defense of pre-born life – and challenged dads to step up and do their part.
Today, Benjamin is helping get the word out for a cause that’s called Churches Helping Churches, a coalition that provides financial support to help sustain smaller churches through this season of decreased donations.
I hope you enjoy our conversation:
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