Dream the demographics

Economic forecastsers carefully watch the demographic trends of society, aided by such tools as the US Census, business and commerce projections, and a variety of Internet websites. Anticipating new "growth points," Wal-Mart, Lowe's and McDonalds crop up, along with many other retailers and service providers. Those responsible for developing new churches, too, try to recognize where communities are developing rapidly in the effort to meet spiritual needs of new residents. Based on an analysis of the projected populations for these newly emerging communities, congregations seek to design ministries and programs that will make a positive difference in people's lives. Where a sizeable number of younger families is expected, for instance, a church may consider such weekday programs as day care, pre-school, Parents Day Out, after-school tutoring and so on. On the other end of the spectrum, if the church is addressing the spiritual needs of a growing retiree community, an entirely different approach will be called for. Organized hands-on volunteerism, weekday discipleship studies, mentoring programs utilizing the expertise and experience of those who have been in the business world for a lifetime might be some ways to serve retirees (and help them serve in meaningful ways).

We are all at least somewhat sensitive to demographic issues. In order to be more effective as faith-sharing disciples, we should strive to know as much as we can about the communities where we live and the people who are our neighbors. Churches can access demographic information pretty economically. Percept Group, Inc, for instance, specializes in providing demographic information for churches. A serious sutdy of our community allows us, then, to discern the particuilar kinds of ministries God is calling us to engage in to share the Good News of Christ where we are.