Whether very large or small, congregational vitality is measured by a church’s pursuit of God’s mission and vision for it. Every congregation must provide meaningful worship, faith formation, missional outreach, fellowship and pastoral care in a safe church environment of healthy leadership and relationships. Vital congregations invite, welcome and connect new persons into their communities. They are governed by committed vestries and bishop’s committees with a deep desire to pursue excellence and faithfulness in their leadership. 

Healthy and vital congregations are willing to assess themselves. Please note the links to assessment tools and recommended resources to do this work. They also strive to understand their internal cultures, statistics and information about their surrounding communities. They know the need to articulate their mission, vision and values and strategically plan for their futures. The Diocese of Texas recommends coaches and consultants who can work with congregations to assure that this discernment is done well. 

Congregations have financial lives that must be tended. Stewardship education, annual, capital and other financial campaigns are essential activities in congregations. In addition the construction and maintenance of facilities plays a large role in a congregation’s ability to provide adequate space and inviting surroundings.

Every diocesan staff member understands that congregational vitality is at the heart of their mission and stands ready to assist according to their individual expertise. If you are a congregational leader and need help with your church’s development give us a call. Every effort will be made to connect you with the person that can assist you. You can contact the Rev. Joann Saylors. 

Take a moment to look at the resources noted as links for our congregations. Hopefully they will encourage and support the vitality of the churches in the Diocese of Texas.

PROFILE YOUR CONGREGATION & MISSION FIELD
Congregational Statistics are now available online at the link below. You can choose the year(s) you wish to review, the diocesan summary or individual churches, and toggle between the Membership and Financial Page in spreadsheet format and the Charts Page. To print charts on one page, right click and select print. If the whole page doesn't print, call Nina Gasper 713.353.2141 or 800.318.4452.

Click here for Congregational Statistics