31 August 2015

On the Challenges Facing Aging Congregations

"Lannie Collins, a beefy man whose red face matches his thinning red hair, took a break from pulling weeds in the August heat outside the Quechee Community Church, a particularly attractive example of the archetypal white-steepled New England church.

"'The biggest problem is,' Collins said, 'because of the location, people have the impression that there’s nothing wrong with the church.'

"Collins has a point. For those who drive by on a Sunday and see the sun-drenched historic building with cars in the parking lot, hear its bells tolling dutifully in its classic steeple and take note of its location on prime real estate along Quechee Main Street, they probably would have a hard time imagining there's anything wrong.

"The reality is quite different, said Collins. . . ."

Focusing on the challenges facing Quechee Community Church in Quechee, VT, a recent Valley News article reported on the challenges facing a number of church communities that have primarily older members.

To access the complete Valley News report, please visit:

Valley News: Churches Fall on Hard Times: Aging Congregation in Quechee Struggles to Remain Viable (30 AUG 15)

Background information:

Quechee Community Church

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