I’m often asked, “How do we make our church diverse?” The answer to that question can be somewhat lengthy depending on where you are in the process. But, I love simple processes so I like to tell leaders and Pastors you need to do…
Three things…First.
See It
Those that come in your church, small group or meeting must “See” diversity. You have to start somewhere, so I suggest an “all out” plan to accomplish this. That means you as the leader and those involved go all out:
Praying – Praying in your cities, neighborhoods and personal times. You need to see this as a battle to change the status quo. An assault on a strong hold of the enemy to keep the Bride of Christ divided.
Playing– Go “all out” and look for opportunities to learn and engage those from different cultures. Be very intentional about developing relationships. Caution: Never as a means to an end, then you are just using people! No! I’m talking about a genuine heart of love and a passion to see your city won by your church “reflecting” it’s city ethnically.
Stage It
The stage, the platform, the one leading the group or taking some role in the leadership is vital. This is where legitimacy and authenticity is birthed. You will never be seen as a church or organization that is serious about beging a true multi-ethnic, or ethnically reflective church without having diversity in the “spotlight.” Do this…
Quietly– Don’t make a big deal about this, it must eb and flow naturally. Diversity in those making announcements, praying, singing or any activity from the stage
Quickly– If you have no diversity on the stage, and there is some diversity in the congregation, make a change, make a space so those who represent another culture can be on stage, do it quickly! If not, you may lose those you have gained.
Staff It
This is the final “First” thing. Your church come into it’s legitimacy stage if diversity is seen in the staffing process. This is one takes time.  You don’t staff just for diversity, you staff well with diversity! This comes after a season of unity, vision casting and understanding. But this last of the “first” steps will make or break you! Do it…
Carefully- If this is done to quickly or done just to make it through this “process” it may do long lasting damage! You must staff diversity, but it’s done prayerfully and carefully. Make a wrong move here and you can undo years of progress.
Completely– This can’t be accomplished just throwing someone in a position. These positions must have real voices and authority. They must have voices at the table of decision making and vison. Then and only then will it be viewed as genuine and be celebrated.
Much needed post Artie. We have a very heavy Hispanic population here and while we have a couple who attend (one very actively), we are woefully short of any outreach. This is a good “fodder” post for me to use this Saturday at a Men’s “Breakfast and Convo” (ironically the meal prepared by our Hispanic women). Can you taste those tamales, Mexican eggs and blueberry pancakes? 🙂
Anonymous
O yeah! Hope you enjoyed your much needed time off!
Great post on diversity. I think in many respects the church is lacking in diversity behind the world. On the flip side, I’ve seen more diversity in the past few years. The staff that I’m a part of is very diverse. It must be intentional in the leadership before the church will get it.
Awesome direction!
Thanks really appreciate that!
Much needed post Artie. We have a very heavy Hispanic population here and while we have a couple who attend (one very actively), we are woefully short of any outreach. This is a good “fodder” post for me to use this Saturday at a Men’s “Breakfast and Convo” (ironically the meal prepared by our Hispanic women). Can you taste those tamales, Mexican eggs and blueberry pancakes? 🙂
O yeah! Hope you enjoyed your much needed time off!
Great post on diversity. I think in many respects the church is lacking in diversity behind the world. On the flip side, I’ve seen more diversity in the past few years. The staff that I’m a part of is very diverse. It must be intentional in the leadership before the church will get it.
So True Eric, thanks bro.
I love it!
Thanks Chris. Appreciate it bro.
This is very helpful. Thank you.