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For the last two years, I’ve been praying over, thinking over, discussing and researching the answers to this poignant question:

Why are people leaving our churches (and not going anywhere else)?

Where are the friends who used to pass us in the halls & sit near us in the pew? After much research, I think I've figured out why people leave church. #leavechurch #church

I Think I’ve Figured Out Why People Leave Church

I’ve read several books, spent much time on the Lifeway and Barna websites and looked at several other sites of all denominations and flavors.

I’ve talked to hundreds of people both churched and unchurched.

I even spent an entire airplane flight (2 hours) talking to a Catholic nun about why she thought people had left and were leaving her particular parish.

Some of the research blames people leaving on some “fun” and “loaded” topics (that we love to argue about).

They cite things like:

  • Music style differences
  • Leadership style differences
  • Should we preach and teach topically or verse by verse
  • The size of our buildings, parking lots and classrooms
  • The carpet and the wall colors

Other research points to our differences in theology and beliefs as the reason that people leave our churches. They discuss things like:

  • Should we give an altar call?
  • Should we offer a sinner’s prayer?
  • Or, should we talk about things in church like homosexuality?
  • Should our families sit together, or should our worship times be organized by age group?
  • Or, should we have elders and deacons or just deacons?
  • Should women be allowed to be deacons and elders (and preachers)?
  • Is the King James Bible the only true version?

All of these things do matter, and we do need to have structure, balance and to know what we believe as a church.

Theology and convictions are very significant.

However, as important as all of these things are, they are not (in my opinion) the main reason that people are leaving our churches.

I Think I’ve Figured Out Why People Leave Church:

If I could boil all of my research, conversations, reading and digging for answers into one simple reason, it would be this:

People are leaving our churches (never to return to anyone’s church) because:

THEY DO NOT THINK THAT WE CARE ABOUT THEM!

It is that simple.

And, it is that challenging.

Those who have fallen away drifted away, walked away and run away from our fellowships have this one thing in common:

SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY,

THEY GOT HURT,

WOUNDED,

OFFENDED,

NEGLECTED OR

FELT REJECTED BY OUR CHURCH,

OUR PASTOR AND OUR PEOPLE.

Maybe it’s because we forgot about what Jesus said mattered most.

Do you remember how He responded to the church leaders of His day?

‘When the Pharisees heard how he had bested the Sadducees, they gathered their forces for an assault.

One of their religion scholars spoke for them, posing a question they hoped would show him up:

“Teacher, which command in God’s Law is the most important?”

Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list.

But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’

These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.”’

Matthew 22

Where are the friends who used to pass us in the halls & sit near us in the pew? After much research, I think I've figured out why people leave church. #leavechurch #church

Jesus made it very clear: Love God and love others as much as you love yourselves.

Those two things mattered greatly then, and they still matter in our lives today.

So, I’d like to propose a very simple formula for reconnecting with the people who have left or fallen away from your community of believers:

C.A.R.E.

Really care about those who have left, gone away or just fallen away.

You and I can care by:

C = Concern

We have to start by being genuinely concerned that these people have left our fellowship.

We have to actually take the time to unselfishly notice that they are not with us anymore.

Think about it…

Can you name 5 people who you used to see that you haven’t seen in a while?

1. __________________________

2. __________________________

3. __________________________

4. __________________________

5. __________________________

Missing church members want to know that we care and are concerned about their welfare!

A = Acknowledge you could have done more than you have done.

This step is hard, but to really start to care, we have to be honest with ourselves and with each other.

We should have, could have, would have called, but we didn’t.

But, we blew it.

We know we could have done more.

Think about it…

When was the last time that you thought of someone you should reach out to, but then you let the thought pass and you never followed through?

  • Yesterday?
  • Last week?
  • Last month?

For me, it was last week. I thought about reaching out to someone who has been out for a while, but I did nothing. The idea passed me by, and I let it.

How about you? Have you let some people leave without reaching out to them? Could you have done more than you did?

Missing church members want to hear us admit that we should have checked on them, should have called them, and should have reached out to them.

They want us to acknowledge that we didn’t follow through with them.

R = Reach out now. It’s never too late to try!

This is a great day to call, text, write, email or go see that person that God has put on your heart.

Maybe it’s a fellow choir member or a class member or someone you used to sit near in church.

Today would be a great day to check on them!

Think about it…

What have 1-2 people been in your heart that you will check on today?

Person one _______________________

Person two _______________________

Missing church members LOVE it when we reach out to them. 

E = Encourage others to reach out too!

Tell someone else that you are reaching out to missing church members.

Let others know that they can help to reclaim some old friends as well.

Think about it…

Who could you partner with on this outreach plan?

~ Do you have an accountability group you could share this with?

~ Do you have a prayer partner who would team up with you in this effort?

~ Could you share this with your Bible study group or Sunday school class?

Missing church members love it when many people are encouraged to reach out to them (it’s okay if more than one person shows concern)!

And so, all of this research brings me back to something simply profound that most of us learned as little children:

Love and care about other people as much as we love and care about ourselves.

Philippians 2:1-4 puts it this way:

“Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate?

Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others.

Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”

Where are the friends who used to pass us in the halls & sit near us in the pew? After much research, I think I've figured out why people leave church. #leavechurch #church

Maybe today our churches would be filled if we just loved others better, more sincerely and more genuinely.

Maybe the secret to reclaiming our lost members is simply to – CARE!

What do you think?

I’d love to hear from you today~

Some of my research came from these sources:

http://www.lifeway.com/lwc/files/lwcF_PDF_Why_Members_Leave.pdf

http://johnpavlovitz.com/2014/08/15/church-heres-why-people-are-leaving-you-part-1/

http://christianmediamagazine.com/worship-leadership/6-reasons-people-leaving-churches-america/

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/formerlyfundie/10-reasons-why-people-leave-church/

http://careynieuwhof.com/2014/04/5reasonsmillennials/

http://thomrainer.com/2013/01/21/the-main-reason-people-leave-a-church/



Want more Encouragement?

AN APOLOGY LETTER FOR HEALING YOUR CHURCH HURT TODAY

I INVITE YOU TO CHURCH (OR BACK TO CHURCH)

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT GOD IS CALLING ME TO DO?

 



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© Melanie Redd and Ministry of Hope, 2019. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner are strictly prohibited. Further, excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Melanie Redd and Ministry of Hope with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Where are all of those friends who used to pass us in the halls and sit near us in the pew? What is causing church attendance to dwindle? Here is one possible reason that people are leaving our churc

Where are the friends who used to pass us in the halls & sit near us in the pew? After much research, I think I've figured out why people leave church. #leavechurch #church

Where are the friends who used to pass us in the halls & sit near us in the pew? After much research, I think I've figured out why people leave church. #leavechurch #church


helloredds@gmail.com

Best-Selling Author | Speaker | Blogger| Podcaster | When the world is falling apart, we can ALWAYS trust in God’s goodness!

80 Comments

Mary Ann · 02/13/2023 at 9:52 AM

Thank you for this article. My husband and I have not been to a church service since the pandemic. I just left the church council yesterday after the annual meeting, as I was the secretary. I have also been the only Sunday school teacher, I used to help at our monthly community lunches, which would take an entire Friday out of my week, I went to bible study, my husband was a trustee. It was the church I have attended since I was a child. But, when the pandemic hit and the lock downs happened, I had more than one co-morbitiy so I isolated. This made church difficult, but I offered to keep up with the church council if they could zoom me into meetings. They did, but they all grumbled at the technology issues that would come with that. I did not attend bible study anymore, and found out later the they had started women’s bible study again, but not one person reached out about it or offered some way for me to participate. Then I broke my arm and was stuck at home for months. Not one person could be bothered to reach out to me. I am “friends” on social media with many people from church. But, not one person including the pastor could jump on messenger and even say hi. Then I finally did get a call. It was a call for me to bake something for a funeral that was happening. I realized at that moment that I was part of the church family and community as long as I was willing to give service but not expect it in return. And when I finally decided I was not going to be part of the church community again and expressed by feelings of isolation to my pastor, who married us and baptized both of my children I was told, that we all need to get past our egos and learn to reach out for help if we need it. So, even the blame and shame for feeling the desire to be cared about was put on me and not the church community. The entire council knew yesterday was my last day and they didn’t bother to thank me for my service to the church, but made a point to thank the person who is taking my place for stepping in. It will be a long time before I step into another church community. These people have known me since birth.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/13/2023 at 1:24 PM

    Hey Mary Ann,
    I’m so very sorry to hear this! I’m afraid this happens quite often.
    I know this must be very disheartening.
    As you are working through the pain, I am praying that God will lead you to a new church where you will find great joy, community, and encouragement.
    Yes! It’s hard sometimes to move forward. But, I’ve seen God do amazing things on the other side of our deepest hurts.
    Praying that He will especially comfort you today.
    Thanks for sharing your story.
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Paula P · 10/29/2022 at 11:04 AM

This poignant article came up in my Pinterest feed and I want to thank you for sharing your heart and your insights with regard to the state of the American church. What caught my attention was, I too, have sought out the answer to this same question. It breaks my heart to see churches closing, lack of attendance and people not on fire for the things of God and His Word, moreover Jesus. Let’s remember that we must go to God’s Word for the answers we seek and not necessarily what people are telling us to really see what the problem is…

1. The Bible is very clear in what the End Times will look like. Paul addresses this in 2 Timothy Chapter 3. The FIRST earmark of the terrible, last days is that people will be lovers of themselves. Narcissism is at an all-time high with people thinking and feeling that the world revolves around them, what they want, what they think and what people should do for them. This is original sin. This is exactly what Adam and Eve fell for in the Garden of Eden…they wanted to be like God, fallings for satan’s lies and tactics–nothing has changed. What we MUST care about is their eternal salvation, the only cure for narcissism is the blood of Jesus Christ.

2. With that said, if people are saying, “no one cares about me” or “I don’t fit in”, then, perhaps, they are coming to church for the wrong reasons. If we are to obey the greatest commandment, coming to church should be about God first and not self. If we love Him first, then yes, we will love others because as it says in 1 John 4:19…we love BECAUSE He first loved us.

3. Hebrews is very clear as to why we are to come to church. Hebrews 10:25 says…Let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–all the more as you see the Day approaching. This one verse of Scripture is power packed with the how and the why. We are to meet together (the body of believers in Jesus Christ), to ENCOURAGE one another and why? Because He is coming back soon. We are beat up, put down, fighting the world and satan’s schemes that we come to church bruised and beat up. We come to worship together corporately, to be encouraged by His Word, to thank Jesus for His shed blood, the most amazing gift God has given us and to encourage one another and build each other up as we wait for His return. Not tear each other down and point out the faults of each other. My Pastor shared with me a saying that I will never forget…”We kill our own”.

4. When people say, “no one cares about me”, they are also being very critical of others. Silently pointing fingers at people, including Pastors and leadership. Anyone in leadership knows that you cannot care about everyone, all the time, in the manner they wish to be cared about. This is simply impossible. Only God Almighty can do that. My heart breaks for Pastors who have to juggle their home life, children, their congregation, writing a sermon, making hospital visits, phone calls, e-mails, etc. Finger pointing (and we all do it because we all blame shift) is part of original sin (read what Adam and Eve said after God confronted them in their sin). No one and I mean no one can possibly care for everyone in the right way.

5. God has gifted the church with gifts, talents and abilities to serve Him and His church (1 Corinthians 12:28). A Holy Spirit, God led church will use these gifts and will work like a human body as Paul explains. “Some” are given one type of gift, talent or ability while others have other types. If everyone were to use the very gifts God has given them, instead of being so concerned about people caring about themselves, imagine what a glorious church, a well-oiled machine of God could do for His kingdom and exalt the Name of Jesus Christ if we did what God has equipped us to do.

6. Jesus was very explicit in that there are wheat and tares. Sitting among us as He explained in the parable of the wheat and the tares in Matthew 13, are unbelievers as well as believers each Sunday when we sit in the pews. It is hard to distinguish the two at times, with the exception of knowing a tree by its fruit. Sometimes you just know when someone is saved. This should encourage us that even Jesus told us that the field right before us, including on Sundays, will have unsaved people that yes, need to be reached. Why aren’t we simply starting with what God puts right in front of us and look for someone who is new, a first-time attender, talk with them, welcome them, etc., instead of going right for our friends and those we already have a connection with. As a ladies Sunday School teacher, I’m always looking for women and families who are not regular attenders to welcome them and say hello and hopefully glean why God has brought them to His house of prayer. Just a few months ago, a first time attender (woman) was sitting behind me that I struck up a conversation with her and asked her point blank what brought her to our church. She was impressed learning that our Pastor was not afraid to preach on Revelation and I asked her if she would be interested in joining our ladies Sunday School class. I even went so far as to bring her to our classroom so that next week, she would know where to go without hesitation. She’s been a regular attender to both our Sunday School class and church. She said she feels welcome and right at home. Why? Because of one conversation and taking one little step. We must remember that God brings people and if EVERYONE would just take a few moments and look around and make a point to welcome new people (the field), they would begin to see the love we are to have for one another within the church….John 13:35 identifies those who are followers of Christ…that we love one another. We must extend love to others yes and wouldn’t it be wonderful if EVERYONE in the church extended that love to others while they are right there, before us? If we aren’t doing it while in His house of prayer, of course we’re not going to do it the other six days a week. The Bible is filled with divide and conquer principles. Imagine a church with 50 people could quickly become a church of 100 people under the Word of God if everyone just welcomed, invited, talked to, etc. Everyone has the ability to do this.

7. I always feel uncomfortable with people who are finger pointers, fault finders, grumblers and complainers. First, it causes me to have to self-examine and yes, that’s a tough one, but that’s what Jesus told us to do…take the plank out of our own eye first (Matthew 7:5). It is important to ask ourselves, do I CARE about other people and their well being and why they are no longer attending the church, or am I so steeped in my own finger pointing, grumbling and complaining that I’m missing what God has set before me, caring only about myself and not others?

Lastly, I would like to share this…I know that the whole pandemic has changed so much about how we go about our lives, what to do, where we go, etc. It truly has caused us all to contemplate our priorities. God should be our priority. He is to be first, moreover His Son, Jesus Christ, Who sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, interceding on our behalf. His church is a blood bought church and perhaps what we have ALL lost sight of is that He is our first priority. Maybe we should simply go back to the first two of the 10 Commandments to find the answer that we all seek.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 10/31/2022 at 10:56 AM

    Hey Paula,

    It’s so good to hear from you! Thanks for taking the time to share your ideas and thoughts. You make so many good points.

    And, I do agree, things have changed a great deal since I first wrote the article.

    May we make Him our priority! Yes and Amen!

    Blessings to you,
    Melanie

James · 06/10/2022 at 4:19 PM

The reason I left church over 25yrs ago is because I got sick of fire and brimstone – and damnation and hell being preached all the time. This is the reason so many younger people refuse to attend church and I don’t blame them.
When I was serving in the Navy I got trapped inside an incinerator compartment. The flames, heat and smoke was unbearable.
Every time I hear or see the word hell, I almost go into a panic. This experience brings back all the experiences I had throughout my life about hell. I have been in counseling since the 80s because of this.
Enough about that
James

    helloredds@gmail.com · 06/11/2022 at 11:47 AM

    Hey James,
    Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts. So sorry for the challenging things you have lived through.
    Praying that you will continue to heal and experience great hope in your life.
    We appreciate you stopping by,
    Melanie

Christian · 05/29/2022 at 1:43 PM

I have believed in God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit my entire life. I married into a pastor’s family and I have to say I have a little different take on this whole issue but agree as well. I have watched the church change over the years. Most churches have become worldly.

First people no longer put God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit first in their churches. They do not focus on the KJV which is the closest translation to the original Hebrew of God’s word, right after the 1611 Bible which most find hard to understand because they don’t want to really study the Bible. They want a watered down make me feel good don’t step on my toes version of the Bible.

You are right we are to love God and love others. Here’s the problem with love others I have found over the years. Yes God is for sinners but we must remember that when we accept Christ we are to change from our old selves and put on a new self. Meaning if we are doing a certain sin we are to change. I have found that we now accept people and we allow them to continue in their sin as not wanting to offend a certain group such as gays in church, a continuing alcolholic/drug addict or a person who is married and divorced multiple times. God’s word is clear we have to change ask for forgiveness but then we are to honor His gift by being an example by changing. We are to lay aside our sins. Does it mean we are perfect at all times no and that’s when we stop and pray asking for forgiveness. But to go to church and continue in one’s sin is wrong. We are not to allow others to tear down what God has built and freely gives us. God never changes the rules. He died for all the world but He requires something from us. Obedience.

The second reason I see is that the church has become a social event or club. You must have the same financial background, education, house, drive the right car etc to be welcome at some churches. It has become as bad as the world in having social economic standards these days. You know the poor, middle and upper class. We have become divided.

We have allowed the world to enter our churches. I see children and teenagers (as well as their mothers) wearing trashy clothing to church. I see men lying and cheating on their wives and families. My family has always reached out to those who don’t change and point out God’s word to help them change.

The Church has become more interested in basketball and parties for kids and groups for this and that so much so that we don’t really spend time in God’s word to see what He says.

I have heard people say this sentence alot…I think God blah blah blah. Nope it is not what you think God thinks about any subject it is simple His thoughts are all in the Bible in black and white and most importantly RED from Jesus himself. The sermon on the mount is a great place for new christians to begin.

But let’s be clear on that day many will cry Lord Lord and He will say depart from me I never knew you. We have to change. Might I remind all who say I didn’t feel welcomed or cared for that there is a church somewhere that will make you feel welcomed but also remember that first and formost you are there to worship God not to be accepted or cared by others. What if we all truly prayed for our churches to change.

I implore you to pray, study, go and seek where God calls you to go and worship. Most importantly we are to worship, praise, love and honor God first. Maybe if we told the truth that’s in the Bible at church we could change the hearts of everyone. There is a hell and it is real.

Also the church has become a place of greed money rules many. As does politics. If we all talked as much about the love, grace and gift of Christ instead of our politics maybe our world really would change. We have to be the example of change. I have had people at church who didn’t like us I “covered them with kindness” and you know what the Bible says do good to them who hate you and in the end some instances took years they came around said I’m sorry and wow did the church change!

We are the church we can change the church. Don’t ever stop studing God’s word. God loves us and wants us to be obedient even if the others are not. Maybe if you don’t feel welcome at church this is an opportunity to invite others to attend and watch how it changes. Loving others can be hard we are all different and maybe sometimes it is us who have to change and God placed us there just for that very purpose to change that church!

Never stop loving and honoring God. Don’t give up your seat in Heaven. Hold on to Him and pray for others to change.

Great post and by the way if this seems rambling well maybe I’ve been sick lately so just forgive my poor skills today, thanks.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/31/2022 at 7:31 AM

    Thanks so much for taking the time to share your story and your thoughts.
    We keep loving and honoring God. Yes!
    We continue to focus on worshipping Him! This is so important!
    Praying that you will feel better and be encouraged today~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Paul · 03/18/2022 at 3:38 PM

All the suggestions as to why people leave are true which is similar to why people leave other secular organisations. This fact should tell us something, to be in Christ is to be separate from the world, in the Old Testament the Jews were the called out race to be separate, all the rest of mankind was the world.
In Christ that old law was done away and those in Christ are to be separate from the world and its engrossments, I would question whether the majority of Christendom understands this as they vote in elections and will fight its wars, both of these are agreeing with what the world does which is totally contrary to what Bible teaching in the NT requires.
Jesus said “those who are His brethren and sisters are those who do the will of God” a church in which the members address each other as brethren and sisters (that is of Jesus) is not a term to be held in a loose sense (like brethren in a political party or trade membership) Jesus brethren and sisters should have a relationship with each other like natural brethren and sisters who you know and trust in an interment and affectionate manner, and maybe more so.
When Jesus called His twelve disciples, for the most part they did not know each other and they had to learn to live and love each other, indeed this is a challenge. We all have our own nuances and may find other’s nuances a challenge, Jesus spoke of logs in our own eyes which we have to deal with before we attempt to find others a problem.
Before finding reasons to leave, we must find reasons to stay, its about what we can put into a church rather than what we can get out of it.
If we understand the marvellous light Jesus brought into the world in the way he addressed the righteous and the unrighteous with wisdom, together with the 100 odd commandments he left which are a way of life to “the Israel of God”, then we have “Christ in us the Hope of Glory” With this understanding and the wonder of it all, all the niggles which the article referred to fall into insignificance.

MISS A C PORTER · 11/12/2021 at 7:16 PM

Hi, I just want say, I left my church, of 48 years after I became seriously ill, and subsequently disabled. Unfortunately wheelchairs come with tyre tracks and scratched paintwork and yes, I most definitely felt rejected and despised, but, I just want to encourage you, after 2 years of being afraid to join a church in case I wasn’t wanted I joined another, different type of fellowship. And do you know the first day as a member I only got as far as the lobby, before a little old lady came up to me beaming saying’ now I can say you’re my sister. And, you are wanted’ I don’t see how she could have said that without the Lord prompting her. But He heals broken hearts. Just show Hiis love and thankyou. I hope this encourages you.Alison, Uk

    helloredds@gmail.com · 11/13/2021 at 9:06 AM

    Wonderful, Alison!
    I love hearing this!
    What a wonderful story of hope!
    This does encourage me!!
    Blessings to you,
    Melanie

Johan Botha · 05/12/2021 at 1:24 PM

I think the author hit the nail right on the head. Sure, there are those that leave for other reasons. I stoped going because I didn’t feel welcome at my church or any church (I’m not really holy and a bit outspoken) and when I stopped going, I just wasnt missed

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/13/2021 at 12:45 PM

    Hey Johan,
    I’m so sorry to hear that you don’t feel welcome. I’m afraid this happens quite often.
    I do hope you will find a community of believers who will welcome and encourage you.
    Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
    Hope you will drop by again!
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Summer · 06/18/2019 at 2:04 PM

I have to disagree with this. For my own personal reasons.
You are right on how people base their church experience on how they“feel”. This is true. Unfortunately.. People are so focused on how the pastor, pastors wife, church members etc are treating them and that is way off from what we should really be thinking..
Our primary goal is to be “filled” when we attend service. We are only to be looking for Gods word and teaching from the pastor/ teacher.
The reason people get hurt and discouraged is because they are living by their emotions and expecting others to lift them up spiritually, when that is impossible. That comes from God alone. Through bible doctrine. 1 John 1:9 says we are to name our sins and be filled with the spirit.
The Bible doesn’t speak of attending every service with the expectations of feeling comfortable or loved or welcome. Yes those things help but it should not be our reason for attending.
I find most churches today to be a huge distraction from the Word and gets everyone off track. That’s what leads to emotional thinking, hurt feelings and people just seeming to simply quit.
I was in search of for so long a place to hear and learn bible doctrine to apply to my life. All I have ever gotten in my 42 years of “church life” was estatics, legalism and a ton of guilt tripping. None of this is biblical.
We are here as believers to learn the Word and then from there, witness to unbelievers.
But we can only go so far, then that’s when the Holy Spirit works.
You can’t sit in a church three times a week and expect to get all you need spiritually if you are not being taught true and sound bible doctrine.
I hope to not sound harsh, it’s just that I too have been counted as a “backslider”, or “sinner” out of church because I choose to stay home and listen to my right pastor teacher on DVD, CD and books.
I’ve learned more this way than I have in my entire life. I hope to help someone with this who has possibly been mislead into thinking that all you do is show up, sit in church wait on people to welcome you, shake your hand, check on you.. it’s much more than that but also much simpler..

    helloredds@gmail.com · 06/18/2019 at 2:12 PM

    Hey Summer,
    Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.
    I always appreciate hearing from readers.
    And, I agree with you. We must come thirsty and open for more of God!
    Amen.
    Hope you have a blessed day~
    Melanie

Wendy Anderson · 05/27/2019 at 9:56 AM

I think what you have here is a good start. But I think more than just “reaching out” is needed. Let me illustrate.

I was rear-ended by someone going about 120 mph in 2005. I sustained a TBI that left me struggling with a number of issues, not least of which was panic-producing anxiety in any size crowd. So I stopped attending church. I’d been VERY involved: choir, handbells, children’s choir, children’s Sunday school, etc. And about a year after the accident, I quit everything. A few people reached out to say they missed me, but for the most part, it was silence. The ones who did reach out remain precious friends.

Three years ago, a young man who had been in my choir began posting “distress calls” on his social media page. His mother and I had been friends, and this was about a year after her death. He’d had to take a job that scheduled him for Sundays, so he stopped attending services. He also became sporadic with attendance at youth events, for the same reason. Suddenly, the church people who had “cared” so much about him when he was a regular attendee responded to his posts about the challenges he was facing with “we sure miss you at church.”

THIS is the problem. Church attendance is important. But those who cannot attend are marginalized. And when a problem becomes known, “we never see you at church anymore” seems to be the go-to answer.

How about, “I’m so sorry you lost your job. Can we buy you some groceries or pay this month’s rent for you”?
Or “Someone ‘borrowed’ your mower permanently? Let us come do your yard for you.”
Or, “You can’t find a new job? We know people who need help at their workplaces. We’ll let them know you may be calling and ask them to give you a chance.”
Or, “You can’t afford health insurance? Let us help you cover the premiums.”

THAT is Christ-like love. That is what we, as the church, are called to. And maybe, just maybe, if we start treating those in the flock who are down on their luck the same way we treat the lost souls whom we send our missionaries and our soup kitchens and our cleanup crews to … maybe, just maybe, we won’t lose them. And maybe they will find a way to reconnect with the assembly.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/27/2019 at 12:17 PM

    Great words, Wendy.
    And, I think you are so right. It goes beyond caring. We’ve lost our sense of community and being neighborly with each other.
    I’m not sure how we get it back. But, I pray that we will find a way to reach out to those in our own flock.
    Sure do appreciate your wise words today.
    And, I pray that God will meet every need that you have and even use some of His people to do it!
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Carol Parsons · 05/26/2019 at 7:07 PM

Wow, Melanie, this article fits right into the same idea as my book that is coming out this fall. Called Living the Great Commission. It is so cool how you are like the 3rd person in just the last week that I have run across with almost the same message. God is obviously telling us all the same thing. Praise God.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/27/2019 at 7:48 AM

    Awesome, Carol!
    This sounds like a great book!
    Don’t you love it when God’s people get on the same page!
    Amen.
    Keep writing!!

Brittany · 05/08/2019 at 7:12 PM

I left a church about three years ago and have been hesitant about being involved in a new one for a combination of the reasons above. I really do not think the church that I am attending now would reach out if we went missing for two reasons – 1. We are no super involved besides consistent attendance (i.e. we have not formed a lot of relationships for people to even know when to call to check)
2. Even if we were, I have not gotten that vibe. However, it is a vibe that I have to take responsibility to create. So glad you wrote about this today. – Brittany 🙂

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/10/2019 at 7:01 AM

    Hey Brittany,
    Thanks for stopping by to leave your feedback.
    It sounds like you’ve had some challenging church situations.
    I will pray with you that you will find a sweet community of believers – people who you can do life with, people who will care.
    It’s too hard to walk this life alone. We need others.
    Asking God to give you some amazing “others!”
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Christina · 05/08/2019 at 10:00 AM

I believe 90% of the people do so not because of theology issues, but because of how they fill while they are there. Do they feel welcome, do the feel appreciated? Do they know that no matter what stage of their walk they are in, that they are accepted for who they are? – Bottom line if they dont feel comfortable, they wont be back, however, make them feel like its “home” and they will bring friends next week….

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/10/2019 at 6:58 AM

    Hey Christina,
    I think you are right. If we don’t feel loved, accepted, and included – we won’t be back.
    It’s a challenge for today’s church. We have to be kinder and more friendly than ever.
    Thanks for your insights!
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Esther Adams · 04/02/2018 at 4:07 PM

Loved your blog, I found it via pin interest. I have been hurt in 3 different churches, I left each one and no one cares enough to come and talk to me. I have developed a deeper relationship with Jesus, He is my constant! There is a lot of hurt happening in churches, which is sad, but 1) we need to look to Jesus who will see us through, 2) we are fighting principalities and powers!
We are victorious in our Lord and Saviour, and we have a loving heavenly Father who bottles our tears. Sending love in Jesus to you all xx

    helloredds@gmail.com · 04/04/2018 at 8:41 AM

    Hey Esther,
    Thank you for taking the time to stop by and leave a comment today. I’m so grateful for your visit!
    And, I’m sorry for the hurt you have been through at churches. It does happen.
    However, you are so right – it’s all about Jesus! We look to Him and we battle on!
    Blessings to you today!
    Melanie

Gretchen Fleming · 02/25/2018 at 12:38 PM

Such a great piece Melanie! Thank you for your research and time you put into this. Your conclusion and suggestions are so helpful!! Really going to ponder this am doing work it into a lifestyle change

Wendy · 09/07/2017 at 1:31 AM

If the pastors and their wives spent more time with the Father, and seek His Face instead of trying to please the people’s and meet their needs in the natural instead of the spiritual they would be leading the flock of The Lord into a deeper relationship with their Heavenly Farther Who is the only one who can meet their needs. Stop worrying about those who leave and leave the worry in God’s hands. Just preach the Truth not what you think they want or need to hear. Leave that to The Holy Spirit Who will guide you if you shut out the carnal thinking. Jesus is the builder of His Church not you. Your job is to preach the Gospel as the Word has it. Not your version, and to train others who the Lord places in your path to do the work of Ministry. Do it Biblically and leave the rest in The Lord’s capable hands. I have left the buildings you call churches because I do not want my ears tickled or my flesh pampered. I wish to crucify my flesh and walk in the spirit and be a true disciple of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, not the god of someone else’s imagination. I wish to be Holy so that I may be able to see my Father and have Him say ” Well done.” , that I may cast my crown at my Lord’s feet.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 09/08/2017 at 11:29 AM

    Amen, Wendy!
    As a pastor’s wife, I so agree. We need to spend time much time with the Lord and focus on serving Him completely. I pray that many leaders will do this!
    Thanks for taking the time to visit and share your heart today.
    Blessings to you,
    Melanie

Joy · 03/03/2017 at 5:34 PM

In the near 24 years that my husband have been married, the past 5 months is about 4.5 longer than we have not been to church, mostly for the exact reasons you have listed. My perspectives differ from those of many, influenced by 35 years of nursing. Church members don’t have the answers for everyone, and they are quick to ostracize those brave enough to vocalize what they think. So, so sick of being excluded because I am not believed to be Christian.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 03/07/2017 at 5:09 PM

    Hey Joy,

    It’s so good to hear from you today. Thank you for stopping by to share your story.

    I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve had some tough experiences with churches and with other believers. We are really HARD on each other, aren’t we?

    My prayer is that you and your husband will enjoy some sweet fellowship with other believers – no matter where you get together.

    And, please stop by again. It’s great to connect with you~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Nancy Pineda · 02/14/2017 at 2:47 PM

I am one of the church members that left. My reason is God opens peoples eyes to see the truth. That’s all.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/14/2017 at 4:24 PM

    Hey Nancy,
    Thank you for taking the time to stop by the blog today.
    I really appreciate your visit and your comments.
    And, I pray that God will bless you and your family~
    Melanie

G Wiliams · 01/01/2017 at 2:12 PM

This article really piqed my interest. Other than basic survival, the need to feel a sense of belonging is a primary psychological/emotional need. From my own observations, I see too many cliques in the church. Examples: the teacher clique, the clique of parents with students in a certain school, the clique of folks that live in certain types of neighborhoods, and the list goes on. I see this somewhat less with the older members. For a new younger married couple or one trying to get back to church, being excluded is hurtful. Conversations revolve around the outside of the church activites of the clique. These people are often less than friendly outside the walls of the church . I even had a family member who was a deacon and had been in the family for years comment to me at a family function after hearing me talk to someone else, “I did not know you did not have any brothers or sisters.” The person had been in the family a decade. I am too old to be offended, but was surprised as it showed that people can live in their own small worlds and really not try to get to know others. It takes more than a smile, a hello, and glad you are here to truly make others, feel a sense of belonging.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 01/03/2017 at 10:46 AM

    Thank you for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment today. I appreciate your visit and your ideas.

    It sounds like you have been involved in a lot of church and family relationships that are challenging. And, I agree, we can be so stuck in our own circles and our cliques that we don’t reach out well to others.

    My prayer is that more of us will get out of the cliques and genuinely engage those around us.

    Please stop by again~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

lesa · 12/28/2016 at 3:12 PM

right in some ways for sure.
our church has been around over 125 yrs, we are a small congregation with about 200 on the books. there is every denomination in our town of about 2500..
the last two that contacted our pastor about why they were leaving one was doctrinal,
the gal said she believed in abortion on demand & gay marriage.
neither had been talked about in SS or church service to my knowledge.
the other lady said she was looking for a different type of church.
So as far as I am concerned , those are good reasons to leave. we certainly aren’t going to change on abortion & also have learned over the many years that we can’t be all to all people. perhaps she will go back to her Catholic roots.
in the bigger picture more & more Christian friends are leaving their mega churches for a smaller home church, where they feel apart of something.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 12/30/2016 at 1:56 PM

    Thanks for stopping by to leave a comment today, Lesa.
    I really appreciate you and your visit.
    And, you are right… sometimes people are going to leave over theological and moral differences that they may have with our churches.
    My prayer is that we continue to share the love of Christ with everyone – no matter if we agree or not.
    Hope you have a very Happy New Year, and I hope you will stop by again.
    Blessings to you,
    Melanie

Anne · 11/09/2016 at 2:07 AM

In my experience, people usually leave because of the judgmental nature of many churches, or just boredom – you hardly ever find anything intellectually interesting or new at all.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 11/09/2016 at 9:52 AM

    Hey Anne,
    Thanks for stopping by to leave a word today. I really appreciate you and your visit.
    It sounds like you haven’t had a very good experience with churches. I’m sorry to hear this. I know that this is true for a lot of people.
    However, I must respectfully disagree with you on this… to really know and fall in love with Jesus is the most intellectually stimulating, interesting, and amazing thing in my life. There is nothing sweeter, better, or more satisfying.
    I pray that you will come to know Him in this same way.
    Blessings,
    Melanie

John · 09/29/2016 at 1:49 PM

Amen. I loved your article. I am all for reaching out to others but some of our churches are so busy reaching out to every one in the community and around the world while forgetting to minister to those within their own church.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 09/29/2016 at 2:39 PM

    Hey John,
    Thanks so much for stopping by today to visit and leave a thoughtful word.
    I really appreciate you and your encouraging comments.
    Hope you have a blessed day~
    Melanie

Suzi · 06/12/2016 at 6:36 AM

As a mature woman of God, I left my home church after 14 years of sitting in the pews, asking for help in an abusive marriage, and before that and even during that time, offering to help in the areas of gifting…only to be shut down. IN the end I was tired…dejected and and felt like I no longer belonged. It has been over 5 years since I’ve been going anywhere, and that due to chronic illness which I received only one offer of help for. Only 2 days ago , I cried with a dear friend about the hurt I am now feeling re the lack of care my children and I received. I’ve had to work through this process with the Father and this one true friend. I’m pretty disgusted! I’m not sure if I should say something to the leadership about this or not. Bless you for the article. ..Suzi

    helloredds@gmail.com · 06/12/2016 at 3:26 PM

    Hey Suzi,
    Thank you for stopping by to leave a comment today. I really appreciate you and your visit.
    I’m so sorry to hear how hard it has been at your church. I do think you should talk to one of the leaders to let them know. Sometimes, they just don’t know. I don’t think the pastors or staff “intend” to hurt you, but sometimes they inadvertently do.
    I will pray that you will have the time and the chance to speak the truth in love to these leaders.
    Each time God brings you to mind in the coming days, I will pray for you.
    Thanks for letting me know~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Alison Walt · 03/29/2016 at 5:26 AM

I love this and I completely agree. This is the reason my daughter left church and won’t return. Many people equate church with the people and often it can happen inadvertently.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 03/30/2016 at 4:21 PM

    Thanks for stopping by to leave a comment today, Alison.
    I know a lot of kids have left because of this problem.
    One thing I do with friends and family who’ve been hurt in church is to pray that God will place into their lives some loving believers who will LOVE them back into church and into fellowship.
    I pray that God will do this for your daughter~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Gloria Doody · 01/09/2016 at 9:49 PM

One of the things we do in our chuch is the womens group is, I send greeting cards. “Thinking of you, Get well cards, Smpathy cards, Concrat, and Happy Birthday cards and Missing You” Signing them “your church family’ This seems to help and when people find out i’ts me sending the cards they are so thankful and express it, I always remind them i’t from all of us. Anyway Other ladies let me know who nees a card so we are all working togeather. It works. In our church Directory the Birthdays are listed so that is how I know when to send
birthday cards. This may help other churches.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 01/10/2016 at 2:22 PM

    Hey Gloria,

    Thanks for some wonderful suggestions! I love cards!! And, I think everyone really enjoys getting cards in the mail.

    And, can I ask a favor? I’m not able to send the article to Dan because the email address is coming back as “undeliverable.” Would you mind double checking his email and sending it to me?

    Thanks so much,
    Melanie

Embracing the Lovely · 12/28/2015 at 6:19 PM

There is so much truth to this! I don’t think we all will see eye to eye on EVERYTHING a church can offer but when we LOVE people and truly care for them…. that is what the love of Jesus is about. I’m reading 1 John and Christ’s love for us helps us to love others!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 12/30/2015 at 7:02 AM

    Thank you for stopping by to leave a good word today!

    And, I’m with you – what if we focused on genuinely loving others rather than focusing on our differences? What might take place in our churches?

    Love the book of 1 John. Think it has such great reminders of how we are to treat each other.

    You have blessed me with your comments today. I’m so glad you visited and took the time to share.
    I hope you have a wonderful day today~
    Melanie

Karen Roth (@ffpaws) · 09/11/2015 at 5:21 PM

For the past three years I have not even been able to attend our church due to high physical pain (I was just diagnosed yesterday with Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Spondylitis in my Spine and Osteoarthritis in my SI Joints and a Bone Tumor in my Left Hip) and to this day not a single person has even called, emailed, written, or even visited to check up on me. What makes this so bad is that five people even live in the same apartment complex as me.

Not long ago I visited someone who I thought was a friend from this church and was explaining how I was feeling like noone even cared about me and all I got in return was to, “Do not even go there”. I have not been back to this church even though my husband still attends the Men’s Group.

I want to go to another Church that has been very welcoming to me and kind to me. But my husband does not want to go to the one I want to go to so what should I do? I want to obey God and be submissive to my husband but I do not want to go to a church that does not even care about me.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 09/14/2015 at 11:26 AM

    Hey Karen,

    I am so sorry to hear about the pain you have been living with for the past 3 years. And, I am even more sorry that the folks in your church have not reached out to you.

    Your situation is challenging and made more difficult by the fact that your husband’s desire to stay.

    I’d love to be able to tell you to move on, but I can’t. As hard as it may be, I encourage you to stay under your husband’s protective authority. Express (kindly) that you would rather not go, but let him know that your will attend out of honor for him.

    Then, go back and try to find a new group, class, friends.

    Likely the church is big enough that you can plug in somewhere new. I will pray that God will bless your obedience and send you some new friends and a great new place to serve and get involved.

    You CAN do this!

    One other truth I’ve been taught and found to be true in my own life – “Give to others what you need.”

    When you go back, be friendly. Be kind. Be nice. You may find another sister that needs your kindness just as much as you need hers.

    Keep me posted on how things go~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Karen · 09/08/2015 at 2:01 PM

It’s EXACTLY why my husband and I left two different churches. It’s been months since we have gone to church. The straw that broke the camels back for me was when we were doing a sign up for a book class that would be held at homes. I bought the book, signed up. Matter of fact I think I was the third one to sign up for the one particular home because it was the nearest, which still was a half hour drive. Anyway no one informed us of the first meeting, not even in the bulletin when the first class was. I found out a week after. Approached the women of whose house it was at, she told me her house was full and did not have room for two more people to come. That was early June, it’s now early September. Haven’t been to any church. I don’t like not being at a church. I pray about it and I know scripture says we should be a part of a church, nota building but the body. I also know no one is perfect and we will not find a perfect church

    helloredds@gmail.com · 09/08/2015 at 3:08 PM

    Hey Karen,

    I’m really sorry that you were hurt at your church. Sometimes people are very careless and rude. I apologize for that woman who uninvited you from the Bible study at her home.

    I will pray that God will lead you to a loving group of Christians in your community – some folks who will love and accept you and be kind to you.

    There are still some really amazing people and churches out there; and, I pray you will find one again.

    Maybe you can ask the Lord to give you some encouragement towards a new group/church/gathering of believers…

    I’m praying you’ll be encouraged this week~
    Appreciate your visit and your story,
    Melanie

Becky · 09/04/2015 at 6:08 AM

I have thought about this as well. I think this is so true. But I also think we as believers don’t realize the privilege we have to honor Him as we fellowship together. We have to be committed to a life after God or we won’t survive or be able to live out our purpose. The church of Acts was such an example we have forgotten about. The church service is to be busy entertaining or trying to follow a program while we have people sitting amongst us with real needs. Funny we are quick to give to all kinds of organizations, but won’t pay a bill for an elderly person sitting in our congregation or the single mom trying to make it, the person trying to stay clean. Why because we think they should suffer the consequences of their choices. We feed thousands outside our walls how about the ones inside?

    helloredds@gmail.com · 09/04/2015 at 9:48 AM

    Hey Becky,

    Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a thoughtful comment today. I really appreciate you and your visit!

    And, it does seem that we miss the very people that need our help the most. I pray God will make us more aware and more sensitive to the real needs of those around us!

    Hope you have a blessed day~
    Melanie

Ifeoma Samuel · 08/24/2015 at 6:24 AM

I enjoyed reading this article Melanie.
The Church had stopped caring along time ago. If they aren’t after the figures increasing in terms of funds, then they are after setting up a super structure!
How sad!
Thank you for sharing I wish more people could read this series you have on this!
Blessings Melanie.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 08/24/2015 at 10:04 AM

    Hey Ifeoma,

    Thank you for your feedback on this article about the church. I pray that those who need to see this feature will see it.

    We are living in an interesting day in the church. I pray that God will revive the hearts of the leaders and the people, and get us back to doing the work of the gospel.

    Hope you have a blessed day~
    Melanie

Lisa Cornwell (@mummascribbles) · 07/06/2015 at 2:55 AM

It’s actually really interesting to read this. I don’t come from a religious family and am not religious myself. That said, the one thing I love about the idea of church is the community that it brings with it. I recently went to a church that was holding a family fun day and I loved talking to the people and to the minister, it felt like such a wonderful community. I felt like a bit of a fraud being there since I don’t believe but everyone was so welcoming, it didn’t seem to matter. I can imagine that it is not like this everywhere though and surely one of the most important parts is caring? I think in general, we all need to care about each other a little more, we have become a world of selfishness. Yes, lives are busy, we all have a million things going on, but really, there is enough time to show someone a little bit of care and appreciation. I think it gets you a long way in life. Thanks so much for linking up with #TwinklyTuesday

    helloredds@gmail.com · 07/06/2015 at 8:08 AM

    Hey Lisa,

    Thanks for stopping by to day and leaving such a thoughtful comment. I really appreciate you and your visit.

    And, I think it’s fascinating to hear about your experience at the community church in your area. So grateful that the people were kind and friendly. Many church members are!

    I do hope you will visit there for other events – even if you don’t believe. I pray you will see the kindness of God in the lives of those people.

    I’m enjoying linking up on Twinkly Tuesday. And, I look forward to connecting again~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Rebekah · 07/02/2015 at 7:48 PM

I think you’re right on here! I know in our case, this was exactly the reason we left – too much hurt and not enough concern. Thankfully we’ll be able to plug in again somewhere else, but this was definitely the reason for our leaving.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 07/03/2015 at 9:19 AM

    Hey Rebekah,

    Thanks for stopping by and having an encouraging word! I appreciate you and your visit.

    Glad you were able to find a new church to plug in to. Hope you are finding joy in this new place!

    Enjoy connecting with you~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Debbie Williamson · 06/26/2015 at 11:32 AM

This is so good. As a pastor’s wife, we often struggle with this dilemma — what to do about those who leave. And many leave hoping you’ll notice (not just anyone, but the Pastor and his wife) and when you don’t, they’re offended and mad. Tough stuff. But I love your CARE idea and I will be putting this to work the next time I think of someone who’s not around. Thank you!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 06/26/2015 at 12:00 PM

    Hey Debbie,

    I am a pastor’s wife too, and it is hard to be us! We try so hard and work so much. And, I’m watching pastors and wives get worn out trying to do it all themselves.

    Fortunately, I see lots of churches trying to go back to some “old fashioned” basics to help with this problem: neighborhood fellowship groups, dinner groups and such.

    Care is essential. But we can’t do it all as leadership.

    I’m working on some articles about how we can reach the unreached and the used to be reached. I’ve been doing a lot of research and talking to a lot of ministry folks about this.

    I would love to involve you in this process. Would you be willing to maybe be interviewed or maybe write a guest post about how we can reach the unreached and the used to be reached?? (Just a thought that came to me).

    Looking forward to connecting again in the future. You’ve blessed me by stopping by and leaving comments today~
    Melanie

      Debbie Williamson · 07/03/2015 at 11:09 AM

      Hi Melanie, I would love to connect again with you. I’m not sure what I can offer the articles you are writing, but I would love to talk with you more about it! You can connect with me privately from my blog and we can see where it all leads. Pastors wives have much to offer one another, so I’m glad my words blessed you. Happy Weekend!

        helloredds@gmail.com · 07/03/2015 at 11:14 AM

        Hey Debbie,

        Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment today! I appreciate you and your visit!

        And, I will send you an email to talk about what we do together in ministry! I agree that pastor’s wives can really encourage each other, and I’d love to hear your ideas.

        Hope you and your family enjoy a nice 4th~
        Blessings,
        Melanie

fairyofjesus · 05/01/2015 at 6:44 AM

Melanie, thank you for researching and sharing.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/01/2015 at 7:03 AM

    Hey Fairy,

    Thanks for stopping by and sharing a kind word. I always really appreciate it when people do.

    I hope you and your family are doing well~
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Amelia · 04/30/2015 at 7:48 PM

I agree with someone’s post earlier- We fall short so much about reaching to someone whether it is a call, visit or note. We always say we WILL–Thanks for all you do for God’s glory. You both are such a blessing. You mean so much to so many people.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 05/01/2015 at 9:16 AM

    Thank you, Amelia~

    Hope you and OC are doing well on this beautiful day!

    You are a blessing too!
    Melanie

Randy Redd · 04/30/2015 at 3:50 PM

Mel – Your posts are purposeful, practical, poignant, and powerful! This one is proof! A great follow-up to your previous questions and apology posts. It moves me to read it. I CARE and I pray that my life and actions will show it. A heart for Jesus is a heart for others! Thanks!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 04/30/2015 at 4:40 PM

    Thanks, Randy!

    You are always great to stop by and leave a kind word!

    You BLESS me much!

    Love you,
    Mel

Maria King · 04/30/2015 at 3:32 PM

I love this, Melanie, and based on what I’ve seen I think you’re right.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 04/30/2015 at 4:39 PM

    Thank you, Maria!

    I really appreciate you stopping by and leaving a word of encouragement today!

    You have blessed me~
    Melanie

Kim @ hunt and host · 04/30/2015 at 12:24 PM

You hit the nail on the head. I agree! I love the CARE steps you gave. We all need action steps to help address this very important issue. thank you for the time and research you poured into this. kim

    helloredds@gmail.com · 04/30/2015 at 4:38 PM

    Thank you, Kim!

    I really appreciate you stopping by today and leaving a kind word~

    And, I do love action steps. I think they just ooze out of my DNA!

    Hope you are doing well and having a great week. Very grateful to have a blogging friend like you~

    Blessings to you,
    Melanie

jennifercrawfordwalker · 04/30/2015 at 6:58 AM

Melanie, this is a GREAT post! I’m sending it along to James to use with our SS teachers! 🙂

    helloredds@gmail.com · 04/30/2015 at 9:16 AM

    Thanks, Jennifer!

    I would love for you to share this with James!

    Sure do love and appreciate you~

    Melanie

    Jenny · 03/09/2017 at 2:53 AM

    Friendship has to run deeper than cutting friendship with someone off because we dont like a sin in their lives, which is shallow. God always loves us. Real love is unconditional.

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