Philip, an engineer and devoted husband in a family of five that recently moved to town, scheduled a visit with Ryan, the lead pastor of Central congregation. Philip is interested in learning more about this congregation.
After initial introductions, Philip happily shared that his family has been deeply involved in ministry causes through their previous congregation. Having moved over 400 miles to a new city, they are impatient to find a congregation where they can join in disciple-making and missional engagement. They are especially looking forward to doing this not just as individuals, but as a family.
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He asked Ryan, with genuine curiosity, whether this congregation is centripetal or centrifugal.
Ryan cleared his throat and responded with a warm smile, “I’ve never been asked that before. Honestly, I’m not quite sure how to define those terms within a congregation. I imagine an engineer might have a more precise answer. Please, share more with me.”
“Oh, I’m sorry,” Philip said with a warm smile. “That was engineer talk. In our previous congregation, many of our friends worked for a local engineering firm. Let me share a little more.”
A centripetal congregation, often known as a come-and-see or gathered congregation, draws people in with its inviting atmosphere. It warmly emphasizes bringing everyone together for worship services at the church, participating in internal programs and supporting community outreach efforts.
Also known as nickels-and-nose gatherings, these are where people come together to count the number of individuals gathered at the facilities each week.
People are mainly invited to come to the church facilities to connect with God because that’s where spiritual activities take place. Over time, this can help build a warm, close-knit community that feels like a supportive holy huddle.
A centrifugal congregation is all about going out and serving others. It’s like a lively refueling station where gathered believers are energized and equipped for scattered ministry.
These congregations inspire and support people as they carry out their ministry in workplaces, schools and neighborhoods. As they go about their daily lives, they actively serve others. From Monday to Saturday, they live out their faith in the community, acting as everyday missionaries in their own neighborhoods.
The nickels-and-nose factor in a centrifugal congregation is all about people living out God’s call in their lives wherever they scatter during the week. The congregation’s gathering times are wonderful opportunities to find spiritual and emotional support. To grow in an understanding of Christ and how He ministered along the roads, in towns and cities, and even in the Temple.
Personal ministry
Everyone is warmly encouraged to discover God’s calling for their life and personal ministry. Whether they’re gathering for worship or heading out into the world to serve in ministry. It is a wonderful journey to find out where, when, what and how to live out that calling.
Ryan expressed genuine enthusiasm, “I have only been here about 15 months, but that is exactly the focus and missional experience and journey I am building a leadership core to launch. I need a few more families to join us in embracing this vision. It has already captivated a wonderful group of families. I truly hope you can see it as a place full of opportunity.”
Philip responded with genuine interest, saying, “I really appreciate the idea of being part of a dedicated movement to help more people go and serve. I’d love to discuss it further. I’ll share this with my wife and three teenagers. I’m thrilled about the adventures it might inspire.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — George Bullard spent five decades in Baptist congregational and denominational ministry. His ministry roles included three churches, three associations, three state conventions and one national entity. He began as a columnist for TAB Media Group’s publication The Baptist Paper in 2022. Bullard now serves as a strategic thinking mentor for Christian leaders through his ForthTelling Innovation ministry. TAB Media Group published his new book “Soaring with Faith: The Difference Maker for Congregations” — available on Amazon.
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