Pastors typically work between 40-50 hours a week. They spend a good chunk of that preparing a sermon to preach to their congregation. They spend another chunk of it connecting with and caring for their congregation.
They spend another chunk on administration that will primarily help their congregation. This is good work and must be done.
However, as the weeks go by, you realize that much of your work consists of working in the church for church people. This may lead you to ask, "What about the non-Christians in my community?"
Great question! I'm glad you asked.
I encourage pastors to allocate 5 hours a week to be in their community, connecting with non-believers and building bridges of connection to people who are not a part of the church. Here are some ways you can get out of your office and into your community.
Community coffee time. Get a few of your church people to have a regular coffee time at the local A&W and invite people to join them. You can then "stop by" and connect with their friends and those they invite. It may get so big that you'll have to start another one.
Alpha at the Library. Rent a room in your local library to host an Alpha for six weeks or some "coffee and conversation." You will probably need to get some of your church people to help you with this and invite others. The idea here is to have a point of connection to discuss faith and spiritual matters. One pastor started "The Doubters Club" in the local library, and many came to discuss matters of faith.
Prayer Walk. Spend 30 minutes a week prayer-walking your community. Pray and listen to what God is saying. Write down what he is saying and keep records of it. God will reveal His will through your walking.
Volunteer in a school. If you're adopting an elementary school, volunteer there. Spend 2 hours a week as a parent helper. Do whatever they ask. Get to know the staff and students in your school. Remember, you are building bridges of relationship here.
Coach A Sports Team. A great way to get to know families is to coach a sports team. If you coach your own kid's team, that's great, but this doesn't count. Coach or assistant coach another team as well. This will help you get outside your own circle of connections.
Meet with community and government agencies. Make regular appointments with your mayor or city councillors. Join your local community league. Join your chamber of commerce. Do whatever you can to connect with non-churchgoers.
It's not much, just 5 hours a week where you're intentional about being in your community and connecting with your community. Maybe you have some other ways you have done this. Let us know at coach@abnwt.com.
Jeremiah works as an Effectiveness Coach with the ABNWT District of the PAOC. He is a passionate and creative leader who believes that the church is the hope of the world. He uses collaboration, innovation, and inspiration to challenge churches and their leadership to engage in the only mission Jesus ever sent his church on: making disciples.