Are we Constructing Church Buildings

or Building Congregations?

Philipose Vaidyar

When we ponder the act of building churches, do we unintentionally overlook the crucial endeavor of constructing congregations? This observation draws us to examine whether the essence of a church lies within its physical structure or its spiritual community. Delving into the depths of biblical scriptures and historical context, we unravel the significance, shedding light on their harmonious coexistence and divergent implications.

The dichotomy between constructing physical structures and nurturing spiritual congregations is a fundamental consideration in the realm of church development. But does the essence of church-building transcend mere bricks and mortar? Can we glean guidance from biblical verses that underscore the Church's resilience against adversity?

In Matthew 16:18, Jesus' declaration that He would build His church upon an unwavering foundation - impervious to the forces of darkness - illuminates the spiritual fundamentals of church growth. Moreover, the Great Commission to Disciples in Matthew 18:19-20 reveals the mandate to make disciples and teach them everything that He had taught.

Contemplating the role of church leadership, it becomes evident that erecting cathedrals, complete with crosses and altars, might not capture the heart of Jesus' mission. The Church's historical role in evangelization has often led to misplaced priorities, where structures overshadow the essence of faith.

Episcopal churches, in particular, have sometimes faltered in understanding church planting ministry. Despite opposition, the invisible growth of the Church endures in the shadows.

Blunders emerge when church leaders emphasize structural endeavors over cultivating faith communities. Fundraising for grand structures often occurs even in regions lacking the critical mass to support such constructions. Presbyters occasionally prioritize constructing new church buildings, while the needs of existing congregations remain unaddressed.

Examining church plaques that honor clergy and inaugurations, it becomes apparent that the labors of evangelists and missionaries often go unnoticed. This discrepancy between visible recognition and unseen efforts highlights the need for a shift in focus.

Here is one of the smallest stone plaques that we probably can see (proper names changed). It reads...

TO THE GLORY OF GOD

ST.XXXXX CHURCH -XXXXXXXXXX

NAME OF THE TOWN, NAME OF THE DISTRICT

OLD CHURCH BUILDING DEDICATED BY

BISHOP MOST REV. DR. NAME

IN THE PRESENCE OF

BISHOP RT.REV. NAME-XXXXXXXXXXX

0N MONTHXXX 19, 19XX

NEW CHURCH BUILDING DEDICATED ON

AUGUST 27, 2019

BISHOP REV. DR. NAME-XXXXXXXX

IN THE PRESENCE OF

BISHOP OF REV. DR. NAME-XXXXXXX

REV. NAME-XXXXXXX (VICAR)

If the church leadership emphasizes such external honors, the mission's significance dwindles, and its impact declines. Missionaries and evangelists, serving as frontline witnesses, shape a church's vitality. Recognizing and defining the roles of evangelists, missionaries, and presbyters is vital for a holistic understanding of ministry dynamics.

Historical success stories should guide churches in revising conventional strategies. Tailored approaches, adaptable to different cultural and linguistic contexts, hold the potential for fruitful missions.

The practices followed by congregations in Kerala cannot simply serve as a blueprint for initiating mission fields in other states or even within Kerala itself. Establishing a successful mission requires a clear vision and effective evangelism and church-planting strategies. Mere random appointments and transfers won't yield lasting results.

Changing times demand evolving strategies; historical practices might weaken in hostile environments, especially in mission fields. Structures of typical architecture and symbols placed can invite unnecessary attention that can be avoided.
Opening a new field necessitates at least two workers, not merely a single individual, and should ideally involve two families. However, independent missions and churches often thrive with single families that commit to long-term dwelling, witnessing, and congregational growth.
A presbyter or an evangelist appointed for a three-year term may struggle to yield significant results in a mission field unless partnered with a co-laborer who remains constant.
The selection, training, and appropriate placement of individuals are crucial. Pioneering missionaries should be carefully chosen, adequately trained for missions (which might not require a B.Th or M.Div), and equipped with essential resources for survival.
A mission field shouldn't be a place for punitive transfers or disciplining candidates.
If two persons or families fail to collaborate effectively in a mission field, transferring one of them to another field isn't a suitable solution other than helping a family cope with their struggles.
Routine presbyter transfers may be suitable for traditional churches but hinder growth in pioneering mission fields.
Church members, mission candidates, and church leadership mustn't assume that poorly performing graduates should be sent to mission fields and academically proficient individuals should be sent for higher studies to be placed in Bible colleges or seminaries.
Regardless of urban or rural settings, church missions must focus on personal engagement with the local community, going beyond virtual interactions, digital presentations, and social media posts.
Numerous congregations today thrive through the dedication of committed individuals and visionaries who do voluntary mentoring. They flourish within homes, often unseen, among close-knit circles of relatives and friends. These gatherings don't demand elaborate setups like flex banners, microphones, PA systems, or shouting speakers. Instead, they require the living stones of Christ's foundation, bound together by unity in spirit and genuine love for one another and the eternal Kingdom. Such a church can find its place in an upper room, a basement, or even beneath the surface.

A practical and experienced missionary-turned-presbyter, with first-hand experience in church administration, can truly comprehend the dynamics of pioneering mission fields. Such an individual should lead the mission department of a Church or the Church itself, potentially altering the future path of any Church and its missions by redeeming the time.

Conclusion:

In re-evaluating the contrast between constructing churches and nurturing congregations, we confront the essence of the Christian mission. It should transcend grand structures and architectural achievements, encompassing the transformation of lives and the cultivation of spiritual communities. As we navigate the intricate interplay between faith and infrastructure, we are called to embrace a holistic perspective that envisions the church as an embodiment of both the divine and the human, the spiritual and the physical, and the eternal and the temporal.

“As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ”. 1 Peter 2:4-5