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Hardcore Traditional
I once had a pastor of a traditional church ask me how they could change their style to reach young people. His congregation was somewhat effective at connecting with senior citizens- but not young adults.
My advice: “Reach more seniors.” He tilted his head with a perplexed look on his face.
I continued, “Don’t start wearing blue jeans, getting lights, and playing loud music when it doesn’t suit you (the pastor) or the congregation. Be who you are- just more intentionally. Be the church that missionally reaches out to senior citizens. Go hardcore-traditional. Have the best pastoral care. Go to all of the nursing homes. Host the craft bazaars and bake sales. Visit the hospital daily. Teach classes on being a better grandparent. Challenge the retirement mindset. Go all out!.”
I ended our conversation saying, “If I were you I’d keep wearing the suit, singing the hymns, lighting the candles, and most importantly, preaching the Bible.”
He thought that was strange advice coming from me. After all, I favor jeans, good, loud music, cool lights, and most importantly, preaching the Bible. But that’s just me- it wasn’t him or his church.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of churches trying to repackage themselves to be more “contemporary” at the expense of what they already do very well. It’s not always about the young folks, there’s a lot of Old Folks who need Jesus (and a church) too.
That church didn’t take my advice and they’re still trying to find their identity. Their solution was to have a traditional service and a “contemporary” service. The traditional service draws many more people than the “contemporary” service- leaving the church scratching their heads. I hope they wake up and see the incredible opportunity they have.
The moral of this story: Don’t be a poser pastor or a poser church. Be who you are and be biblically faithful.
Sidenotes:
- Personally, I think it’s cool when multiple generations are in one church. It adds a lot of richness and flavor. But usually, a church’s overall appeal is to a particular group over another.
- I use the term “contemporary” loosely because churches who market that word do. Most churches that claim to be “contemporary” are usually stuck in 1987 singing “Shine, Jesus Shine.”
- Where’s the seasoned pastor who wants to plant a church that goes after the unchurched senior citizens?
- I’m really not sure why he, or any church leader, would ask for my advice. I have way more questions than answers.
3 Responses to “Hardcore Traditional”
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Those were some great answers!!
awesome post.
and i have never thought of things like that – for an ultra-traditional church… why not focus on reaching the senior citizens? great insight.
and very true about contemporary (in many cases) = 1987 – shine, Jesus, shine. sooo true.
Great Advice…and so on Point…Jason