Church culture: 'But we've always done it that way'

Jules Loveland  |  Features  |  safeguarding briefing
Date posted:  7 Oct 2024
Share Add       
Church culture: 'But we've always done it that way'

Source: 2.bp.blogspot.com

In every church, there is an often unseen influence that can bring life and progress to a congregation or leave it stagnated. This influence is church culture.

Frequently overlooked and under-appreciated, culture is always present. It shapes the way we think, behave, and interact with one another. Understanding the significance of our church culture is essential, for effective evangelism, growth and pastoral care.

Church culture is a shared set of values, beliefs, and behaviours that characterise our congregation. Unlike a shared theology, culture is an unwritten code that influences how we connect, make decisions, and perceive our roles within the church community. Culture encompasses everything – from worship styles and dress codes to leadership approaches and communication styles. It’s the ‘personality’ of our church, and like any personality, it has a profound impact on every aspect of life within our congregation. It also significantly impacts the experience of anyone visiting or joining us.

Share
< Previous article| Features| Next article >
Read more articles on:   church  /  safeguarding
Read more articles by Jules Loveland >>
Features
Dispelling the myths  around safeguarding

Dispelling the myths around safeguarding

Safeguarding is foundational to protecting and supporting people in your church or organisation, especially those who are vulnerable. Despite the …

Features
Supporting survivors of  abuse in churches

Supporting survivors of abuse in churches

Content warning: This article contains information about responding to reports of abuse which some readers may find triggering. Survivors of …

Subscribe

Enjoy our monthly paper and full online access

Find out more

Need to advertise?

We can help you reach Christians across the country.

Find out more