How Church Leaders Can Combat Cultural Attrition

by Matt McCraw Church Answers Consultant and Coach

My last article explored the reality of cultural attrition in the church. It is a genuine problem, and real problems call for intentional solutions. So, how do we prevent cultural attrition in our churches? Here are eleven ways to fight cultural attrition in your church.

Many established churches concentrate too much on history. In fact, some church members focus so heavily on “the way things used to be” that it borders on idolatry. However, history can also serve a healthy and helpful purpose.

Wise church leaders will leverage the power of history to strengthen a healthy church culture. Celebrate moments when the church worked together. Highlight seasons of generosity. Remind your congregation of its strong history of outreach and evangelism. While some parts of your church’s past may be challenging, do not discard it entirely. Celebrate what is good, faithful, and healthy from your history.

2. Commit to improvement.

Your church culture can become unhealthy gradually; it can simply develop over time. However, if your culture is going to improve, it must be intentional. You need to commit to making progress. God has not called you to be a complacent leader. He has called you to continuous growth. Likewise, He has called you to lead others toward growth. To combat cultural attrition, you must commit to a purposeful pursuit of greater health as a church.

God’s people have always been shaped by stories of what God has done. The same should be true in your church. Share stories of how God is working through your congregation, and intentionally link those stories to your church culture.

Share testimonies from new members who joined because the church was welcoming and loving. Highlight how a local school was blessed…