Small Churches Demonstrate Significant Community and Economic Impact

Emily Sajdak of Partners for Sacred Places highlighted the significant role small and rural congregations play in their communities during a recent gathering hosted by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s Office of Faithful Innovation. Sajdak, who leads the Rural Initiatives division, shared findings from a study that underscore the economic and social contributions of these churches.

More than 80% of individuals who use a sacred place are not members of the congregation, and 93% of U.S. congregations offer services to the broader community, such as food pantries and AA meetings. These statistics illustrate that older sacred spaces remain active and beneficial to the public, though they may face challenges due to their age and physical condition.

Partners for Sacred Places’ report, “The Economic Halo Effect of Historic Sacred Places,” reveals that congregations contribute significantly to community and economic life. The average congregation has an annual impact of $1.7 million, with nearly $700,000 from educational offerings and over $500,000 in direct spending.

Sajdak challenged common misconceptions about rural churches, noting that many are stable community anchors. A follow-up study in 2021 examined 87 congregations excelling in community care, showing that even small churches can have substantial economic impacts.

One example is Franklinton United Methodist Church in North Carolina, which had an active membership of 25 in 2021. Despite its small size, the church had an annual economic impact of $1.2 million on its community of 2,000 people. It operates an early childhood education program, hosts a youth group, and provides a Girl Scout troop at no cost.

Another North Carolina congregation, FaithBridge United, also demonstrated the value of small church ministry through its community engagement and service. These examples reflect the broader trend of congregations contributing to the public good through various forms of outreach and support.

The study’s findings offer a compelling case for the relevance and importance of small churches in rural areas. They serve as vital resources for their communities, providing essential services and fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

Source: Read the original report