How To Break Growth Barriers, originally published by Carl George in 1993, is an interesting and helpful read for any leader of a growing church.
George contends that congregations commonly hit three plateaus as they grow. The plateaus are defined by average weekend worship attendance. They are: the 200 barrier, the 400 barrier, and the 800 barrier. He further contends that, at the 40o barrier,
"One of the most important issues to negotiate is the changing role of the church governing board. Planning and administration must become a staff function, not a board responsibility." (p. 145)
"Why? At this point the church has become so big that it is no longer practical for part-time workers to manage the church's coordination tasks. Too many details arise that cannot wait until the board convenes each month. No matter how efficient the board tries to be, it can regularly bottleneck the staff's efforts to build growth momentum." (p. 149)
Does that sound familiar to you? Is it possible that your governance structure is impeding the growth of your church?
George contends that congregations commonly hit three plateaus as they grow. The plateaus are defined by average weekend worship attendance. They are: the 200 barrier, the 400 barrier, and the 800 barrier. He further contends that, at the 40o barrier,
"One of the most important issues to negotiate is the changing role of the church governing board. Planning and administration must become a staff function, not a board responsibility." (p. 145)
"Why? At this point the church has become so big that it is no longer practical for part-time workers to manage the church's coordination tasks. Too many details arise that cannot wait until the board convenes each month. No matter how efficient the board tries to be, it can regularly bottleneck the staff's efforts to build growth momentum." (p. 149)
Does that sound familiar to you? Is it possible that your governance structure is impeding the growth of your church?
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