Book Description

Reginald Stackhouse, an Anglican Minister and former Principal at Wycliffe College at the University of Toronto, wrote this book detailing stories of Canadian Churches which have grown in the last decade. These include Presbyterian churches as well as Lutheran, Anglican, Roman Catholic and United; both urban and rural, old and new, large and small.

Based on his research, Dr. Stackhouse concludes that the five factors that contribute to church growth and recovery are:

• Prioritization for Growth: They are intentional about growing and keep growth at the top of their agenda.
• Responsiveness to people's needs: They address the questions that people are asking. Their ministries are relevant to the needs of the people.
• Quality: They pay attention to detail and do everything - worship, music, preaching, building care, pastoral care and Christian education to the best of their abilities.
• Creativity: They are imaginative, creative and innovative when rising to challenges with fresh thinking.
• Personal Touch: They know the names of individuals in the church and are friendly, welcoming and inclusive to new and old members alike.