It’s time once again for our churches to complete the Annual Church Profile. I know some of you may dread receiving this in the mail (or getting my call when it’s overdue), but it truly matters to us. To make things easier this year, a letter with your login information has been sent to each church. Simply visit www.sbcworkspace.com and enter your ACP details. There are just 15 straightforward questions. While you’re there, please remember to update the Leadership Profile as well.
The Annual Church Profile is published by Lifeway Research and shows valuable information on trends across the nation in Southern Baptist Convention churches. As a whole, this survey gives us an idea of how our churches are doing, both nationally and in Montana. But, its accuracy relies on the participation of most, if not all, of our congregations. On an individual level, it reflects the ups and downs experienced by each church. And that is important to us.
I know most people don’t get as excited about numbers and statistical averages as I do, but each figure represents a story. I get to hear a lot of these stories as I am putting the results together. I love to hear that a small-town church has baptized 20 people through their prison ministry, witness a 4-year-old church plant has doubled in size, or see a church with an average Sunday attendance of 65 baptize 12 people during the year. There are so many exciting milestones that I get to celebrate with you.
I also hear the needs. There are churches in decline. There are pastors struggling with their health. There are church splits and closures. Knowing these stories gives all of the staff at the Montana Southern Baptist Convention a chance to pray for you and with you, and do whatever we can to help. That is what we are here for!
In 2023, although membership across the state saw a decline, the weekly attendance and baptisms significantly increased. I am looking forward to seeing what 2024 brought.
If you have any questions on the survey or would like a physical copy, please contact me at [email protected] or 406-252-7537.
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