Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of church leadership, a recent survey sheds light on the top concerns facing leaders today. With the Christian Resources Exhibition approaching, a comprehensive survey of 147 church leaders reveals a strong desire for growth, engagement with youth, and improved discipleship.
Key Challenges for Church Leaders
The survey highlighted that 62% of church leaders view increasing attendance, enhancing discipleship, and connecting with younger generations as their main challenges. In addition, nearly half of the respondents (47%) identified community outreach and mission as key issues, while financial sustainability and fundraising were concerns for 42%. Leadership development and burnout were cited by 41%, and 39% pointed to the maintenance of church buildings as a significant hurdle.
Support and Training Needs
Reflecting these challenges, the leaders expressed a strong need for practical support in several areas. Over half (53%) sought assistance with church growth and evangelism, while 43% wanted help with community engagement and social action. Support for youth, children, and family programs, as well as leadership and wellbeing, were important for 37% of respondents. Building projects and grants were a priority for 27%.
The survey aims to tailor the upcoming October conference to the immediate needs of church leaders, with 77% seeking actionable insights and 38% looking forward to networking opportunities.
Upcoming Church Leaders Conference
The Christian Resources Exhibition will feature a two-day Church Leaders Conference, moderated by Andy Flannagan, the executive director of Christians in Politics. Flannagan emphasized the complexity of challenges church leaders face today, stating, “Church leaders are navigating incredibly complex cultural, pastoral and organisational challenges.”
He added, “I’m really looking forward to hosting the Church Leaders Conference at CRE and helping create space for honest conversation, practical insight and encouragement. This is about listening well to church leaders and shaping a programme that genuinely supports them in the realities of ministry today.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
