Dear Friends, Happy 2025!2025
As we begin this new year, Plymouth Presbyterian Church is facing challenges such as declining membership, an aging congregation, and a shifting culture. Yet, together, we can meet these challenges by embracing innovation, flexibility, and thoughtful planning grounded in Scripture, ensuring we remain a vital part of the St. Helens community. After all, challenges are just opportunities wearing a slightly grumpy disguise.
Innovative Approaches: We can leverage technology and creativity to foster connection and growth. Hybrid worship models—combining in-person and online services—are essential for engaging our diverse audiences. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us, “not to give up meeting together,” and technology enables this, especially for those unable to attend physically. Virtual small groups and tools like sermon archives and digital giving apps can strengthen our sense of community. (Who knew the Apostle Paul might have approved of Wi-Fi?)
Interactive tools such as live polls, Q&A sessions, and gamified Bible lessons for children make learning and worship dynamic. Partnering with local organizations for service projects or hosting events like concerts and art exhibitions can expand our reach. Just as Paul engaged the culture in Athens (Acts 17:22-23), we can meet people where they are to share God’s love—even if it’s at a coffee shop or pub armed with a latte or near beer.
Flexibility: Adapting to the needs of our multigenerational congregation is essential. This includes offering modern worship services for younger members and traditional ones for older members. Paul’s example of becoming “all things to all people” (1 Corinthians 9:22) encourages us to be flexible in worship and ministry. And let’s face it, finding a hymn that pleases both Grandma and the teens might just be our modern-day miracle.
Flexible ministry structures, such as lay-led teams, can lighten the burden on Pastor while empowering all of us to serve one another. This reflects the call in 1 Peter 4:10 to use our gifts for the community’s good. Addressing social and cultural issues with empathy and biblical wisdom ensures we remain a relevant voice, as Colossians 4:6 advises, “always be full of grace, seasoned with salt”—and maybe just a pinch of humor.
Thoughtful Planning: Planning for the future begins with prayer and listening to our congregation’s needs. Proverbs 16:3 reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will be established.” Regular surveys can help us adapt strategies and allocate resources wisely. Training volunteers in technology and budgeting for new initiatives ensures sustainability—and keeps us from the dreaded “technological oops!”
Partnering with schools, nonprofits, and businesses amplifies our mission. Offering shared spaces for community events embodies Jesus’ command to love our neighbors (Mark 12:31). Mentoring younger members for ministry roles aligns with Paul’s guidance to Timothy (2 Timothy 2:2). Let’s prepare them now so they’re ready—even if they’re currently distracted by their phones.
A Bright Future Together: By embracing innovation, flexibility, and thoughtful planning, we can face 2025’s challenges with confidence. Together, we will ensure Plymouth Presbyterian Church continues to shine as a beacon of hope in St. Helens. As Jesus calls us to be the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), let us move forward in faith, trusting in divine grace and guidance—and maybe having a little fun along the way.
May God bless you and the year ahead!
Pastor Peter Blank
Plymouth Presbyterian Church