Moving worship from 11a to 9a....change in attendance?

[JenniferLassiter]

Here's the nutshell: we bought new property, we sold our church, we're not ready to build yet, we will have a temporary facility by January 2, an opportunity has presented itself to share a facility with another church. God is awesome.

Currently we have SS at 9:45 and Church at 11. We may need to switch that. Church at 9:30 or 10, SS afterwards. We have made attempts to add a 2nd early service, but it has never worked. Just doesn't fit our congregations needs. Which is why I'm nervous for this potential switch.

From your experience, has anyone ever been with a church who's worship service times have switched? What was your experience? Was there a large drop in attendance in either the worship service or SS?

Any thoughts are appreciated. Thanks!

[Mike on Bass]

It will likely change-

In my experience, early services are hard for young families to get to- as a father of 4, it's a challenge to get everyone up, fed, clean, and dressed. Not impossible, but a challenge.

Then there is a certain group of people that think getting up before 10AM Sunday is blasphemy in itself.

The SS after church might work better for some people. The main thing is, kids will be hungry, etc.

HOWEVER...

Your congregation should realize this is part of growth. God is moving, and people need to realize He moves in His timing- not our convenience. A mature congregation would work with your leadership and adapt for a TEMPORARY adjustment to service times to in order to support the ministry for this move.

I can't help but think of the parable of the wise and foolish brides waiting for the bridegroom.

[JenniferLassiter]

Oh that is excellent Mike. Excellent biblical example that had not occurred to me. I'm so caught up in the logistics I suppose. Sometimes we get so into the details we miss the forest for the trees.

Thanks for your perspective.

[RStrait]

Hi Jennifer
I have been with a couple of churches that have made those types of changes. Before we implemented or even decided to go forward with the changes, it was discussed at two consecutive Sunday services. We also passed out a very short survey requesting feedback. In both cases, the congregation was for the switch. As with anything, we did pray about as well.

Best regards,
Rich

[JenniferLassiter]

Thanks Mr. Strait! (Any kin to George??? Had to ask...)

I was pleasantly surprised that the congregation as a whole, when told this was a possibility, was overwhelmingly positive in trusting the direction God has for our church. It goes to show me AGAIN that all the things I worry about, I should hand over to God, bc he knows the plan.

Hopefully they will show their support in regular attendance too!