Is church dying? There are predictions that in the next several years, churches in the United States will decline by around one quarter. Those who value church might ask the question “How can we reverse this trend?”

Consider a church in California that was on the brink of closing. They had a large building to maintain, and the membership had dwindled. But the four remaining members loved church and managed to keep going, as they felt it was important for a Church of Christ, Scientist, to have a presence in their community. The members continued with services and other church activities. But even more significantly, they committed to praying, because they realized that prayer was of primary importance in fulfilling their healing mission. 

The change wasn’t immediate. But about a year and a half later, the church got a call from someone who was looking for a Christian Science publication. The caller was delighted to hear that the church also offered Sunday and Wednesday services. She started attending and soon joined the church. Then, two others started coming. The increase in attendance and activity has given this church hope.