Our ministry at LUTHERWOMAN is to disciple women who are busy. The younger generation of women (basically under 50) are busier than ever. They find it difficult to carve out time to attend bible studies an events at church.
Instead of continuing to fight this battle and try to wedge them into the ministry structure of the past, let’s meet them where they are and hope to bridge the gap.
These women need community. Community draws us in. As women spend less time at church, the proximity needed for community is lessoned. They get disconnected and only make it to Sunday morning and see that as a big win!
So let’s foster community and disciple them in ways they have time for and are receptive to.
LUTHERWOMAN does this through digital means. We are building a network of LCMS women to lead online.
But how can a CHURCH use an online approach to disciple and build community?
We offer two ideas for use in the local church that we hope will foster both discipleship and community within your own church.
Start a private Facebook Group for the women in your church.
A private Facebook Group is a way to reach women on their phones and computers. Facebook Groups are places where every member can post questions. A Church Facebook Group for women isn’t always about spiritual things, in fact, building community will just mean sharing “life”. Posts in the group can be every day life questions and discussions. Like asking “I need a new dentist, give me recommendations.”, or “My kid is struggling in math, does anyone know a tutor?”.
They can be a way to keep up with life events. Women can support each other with meal trains when there is sickness or need. And it can be a place to discuss church events in more detail, like, “where do I sign up for ___ event?” or “what do I need to bring for the retreat”.
On the spiritual side, the group can have a weekly prayer request thread. And, this group is now a place where the Group Admin (church staff or women’s leader) can SHARE ARTICLES of faith and interest. LUTHERWOMAN has over 60 articles to share. Our articles focus on real stories of God working in our lives. You can also use our list of LCMS women online to follow all of those women and share their articles.
Start a weekly Zoom Bible Study
This is the next level of involvement for a busy woman. They may feel like it is too much to drive to the church and maybe have to find childcare, but they might be open to a zoom study.
We suggest you do this as SESSIONS. Post about the study and give it an end date. For example, “This is going to be a six week study on (insert topic or book of the Bible)”. An end date gives them the ability to “try” a study without feeling committed to months, a year or even an unending group.
The other thing it provides is a way for women to connect and possibly spin off into their own ongoing group. Sometimes a group really hits it off and they don’t want to quit! That’s great! Let them keep going as a group and form another “Sessions” group to announce for other women.
BE CREATIVE!
We don’t want to overwhelm you with new things, but please think creatively about reaching women where they are, in the life they lead, and helping them learn, grow and connect to your church body in new ways!
