C & E Effect

Well Easter is gone and we are heading towards another vacation season.  With the gas prices continuing to rise, many people are looking at stay-cations this year.  Yet the summer slump in churches will be in full effect. 

Yet the impact of the C & E Effect was felt everywhere this past Sunday.  On Easter most churches set record attendances for the day.  Our church experienced 7700 in attendance with many decisions for the Lord.  A new campus was opened with 1208 at its first services.

Then the C & E Effect took over which resulted in a 45% drop in attendance for this past Sunday.  Why?  The Christmas (C) and Easter (E) attenders seem to not be looking for a relationship with the creator of the Universe, but to "punch their card" for a service.  Some people come to please a family member or just because they feel guilty and think the one service will make them feel better.

I am thrilled that they came to praise the Lord and hear the Word but so many missed the best part of having a relationship with the Lord.  One message misses the need for a daily relationship with the Lord.  Yes we are all hypocrites in the eyes of the C & E people because they look at the people in the church and not at the reason for celebrating Easter or having that one on one relationship.

If you are a C & E Effect person don't be mad, try this.  Go again on a non high energy weekend.  Talk to at least five people.  Find out what the church believes and does for others.    If you are not comfortable with a given church, "kick the tires" on another church until you find one that reaches out to others rather than is just content with where they are today.

I'd love to see some of the 45% this next weekend!  Just so they can feel welcome to have a great relationship with the Creator.