I was deeply touched by the articles, “2012 brings new hope for Laurel congregation,” and “Dissolved church’s assets carry missions impact,” in the Jan. 5 issue.
Years ago, I served as a part-time staff member at two very small congregations. One eventually dissolved (although a Spanish-language church meets there); the other, last I heard, was still soldiering on.
Little churches have a rough row to hoe. Most urban and suburban people never give them a thought. Many big church leaders view them with disdain. One such pastor, when discussing church planting, said, in my hearing, “I’m not going to be responsible for starting another two-acre church.” (Although, later, under his leadership, we took on a failing “two-acre” mission and helped its members build it into a thriving rural congregation.)
It is the only kind of church life that millions of Americans understand. Furthermore, if my experience is typical, many or most dying churches leave a trail of human wreckage behind them.
Such churches need our thought, prayer and help. And if you are struggling in such a situation, remember such Scriptures as 1 Corinthians 15:58.
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