Reopening the Back Door : Answers to Questions about Ministering to Inactive Members by Kenneth C. Haugk (1992-09-01)

by Kenneth C. Haugk

Book Overview

This book shows congregations how to minister to inactive members, how to welcome them home, and how to prevent inactivity in the first place! This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0963409301
• ISBN13: 9780963409300
• Release Date: January 1992
• Publisher: Tebunah Ministries
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Biblethumpers: Read Before They Leave... and after.

A good book of tips and some techniques on how "Churchy folks" (my term) can prepare themselves to try to discuss with the people who don't show up to their church congregation anymore. The book also covers many common errors. Summary of tips: I can sum it up to say: Contact people to honestly care for their needs, and take time to listen, which is very different (and the book discuses this) than calling on the phone for three minutes just to say you called and check a block on the call sheet. The book mentions: Dont wait two years to ask why a person's not seen at church anymore, but call after two weeks... or sooner. This book discusses many of the mistakes that the 'members-of-the-church-committee-on-membership' can use to prepare themselves mentally on how NOT to insult a member or former member who is no longer attending your particular congregation... what to ask, how to invite to a neutral location, how frequently to follow-up, etc. it's not about 'salesmanship' but it is a book on how to learn how to be a better listener, and better caring person. Many tips in the book on getting into a better mindset of listening. It really is about finding out about the person's needs, weither they fit into your congregation, or if you need to understand some of the personalities and services of neighboring congregations or organizations that might serve the person better. It's not about you: but your brain and mindset and listening is very important. It's not even about your church or your congregation; but their response to the person is important also. The book helps one learn that to hear one person you have to do a good job at listening, and knowing what resources external to your church they may be calling for, although calling silently. it is about preparing yourself for the conversations.