A Letter to Church Members

At some point, every pastor or church leader has wondered how to rekindle fervor in the hearts of members who have “fallen away” or stopped attending. Many churches periodically send out letters to those who are on “vacation” from church, reminding them they are missed, or more bluntly, asking them if they still wish to be members. Many call them “Missing Members.” Some churches may have figured out how to communicate this with sensitivity and care, however the question that begs to be answered is, “what is our goal?” Why are we reaching out to these people? Is it simply to clean up the church books? Or, is to truly connect with those who are no longer with us.

If they are really missing, we don’t know where they are, so how can we even send them a letter? What about those who are missing “spiritually?” What if you had a letter you could send to all of your members to remind them of their church’s purpose and mission, and to inspire them to be actively involved? Consider the letter below as one that could be sent to all of your members (both active and inactive).

Letter for “Missing” Members

Date ______________

Dear ______________

I hope you are well. This is a note to let you know that we value you in the midst of our struggle to build community. In a world that’s falling apart at the seams, there are very few places people can go to be encouraged! Since 9/11 our nation has embarked on a journey that seems to be taking us away from civility, compassion and grace. Each day social media lights up with heartbreaking exchanges between people who are frustrated, angry and afraid! The divisions among political opponents is so strong that some are ready to take up arms to defend their thoughts. Working together, especially with those who have different ideas, seems to have fallen on hard times. Such dialogue has become awkward and dismissive.

One songwriter’s lyrics cry out:

Somebody show me the people who care, and who live by the Golden Rule.
They shine like the stars in a world that is bare, and broken through and through.
They are willing to die for tomorrow and give up their freedom as well,
To love and live like the Father, and be under His magical spell.
And be under His glorious spell.

We are attempting to build such a community—one that is based on Matthew 7:12, where everyone is treated with kindness, and where truth and is valued and cherished! Yet, we are an imperfect bunch who sometimes get it wrong and come across as arrogant know-it-alls. This is why we need God’s forgiveness and to be gracious with each other.

Building a Community

In the face of today’s madness, we are hopeful, because we want to do God’s bidding—to spread the hope of a better world throughout our community. We want this passage to describe us:

“Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.

“When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

“Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, ‘I will take revenge; I will pay them back,’ says the Lord. Instead, ‘If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.’ Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good” (Romans 12:9-21, NLT).

Will You Join Us?

Please note, this is not a solicitation for funds or for any other hidden agenda. We are simply saying that at a time when the world is faced with unprecedented change and uncertainty, we choose to be a community of hope!

—-In His joy, (lay member or pastor’s name)

(Post this at the bottom of the page, or put it on a separate page. Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope for them to return)

If you resonate with this and want to help us create such a community, we welcome your participation and feedback!

__ Yes, count me in!

__ No, I don’t need this

__I have another community elsewhere.

My name is: ___________________________________________________________

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