HELPING PEOPLE MOVE ON
As a Pastor I’ve learned that if you want to see people continue to serve the Lord faithfully you may need to help them transition to a new church. Listen, I know what you’re thinking. Sheep swapping is not discipleship. I agreed with you, however, it doesn’t change the fact that some people will leave the church. It’s inevitable. I mean some people you are called to serve will be with you for just a season and that’s ok. Yet making the decision to move on can be difficult for some. Here are a few suggestions on how to help people transition to new places of worship.
FOLLOW UP - Sometimes people who were once committed begin to attend less and less however that’s not always a sign that they are ready to move on. Before jumping to conclusions try meeting with them to see if everything is ok. Employment changes, children activities and health issues can keep members from consistently gathering together with the saints. Meeting with them can help you determine their intentions. It’s better to know than to assume.
PRAY - Once you know for sure the member is wanting to move on, begin lifting them up in prayer. Making a transition can be difficult. They are not just leaving a building but rather people they’ve come to consider as family. Ask the Lord to give them peace about the decision. Ask God to help them find a new church that will embrace them, teach them and use them in ministry.
HELP - There are a ton of churches however some are not as sound as others. You can be a tremendous help by recommending churches that would be safe to attend. Suggest churches that are close to their neighborhood and that have similar doctrinal beliefs. This will help make the transition easier for them. Just be sure to let them know the door is always open.
One last piece of advice, RELAX! Listen helping someone through a transitional season is not the end of the world. I mean people will always come and go from the building. Just don’t let it cause you to lose sight of the big picture which is not growing an audience but adding people to the Kingdom.













