Finding hope in new possibilities

By Mary Jean Belrose, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President

Church is more than a building—it is a place of deep connection, shared history, and sacred moments. But when numbers dwindle and energy fades, it can feel like something precious is slipping away. The natural instinct is to long for “the way things used to be.” Yet clinging to the past can prevent us from stepping into the future with faith.

The good news? Decline is not the end of the story. With courage, openness, and a willingness to embrace change, new possibilities can emerge—if we are paying attention.

Honouring the Past Without Being Bound by It
It’s important to recognize and celebrate the legacy of a congregation—the lives changed, the ministries served, and the faith nurtured within the community. But nostalgia can sometimes blind us to an important truth: God is always calling us forward.

Honouring the past means learning from it—carrying forward what still gives life while releasing what no longer serves the mission.

Instead of asking, “How can we get back to the way things were?” a more helpful question is, “What is God inviting us to become?”

Facing Fear with Faith
Declining attendance, financial struggles, and an uncertain future can feel overwhelming. Change is risky, and it is often easier to stay in familiar patterns—even when they no longer work—than to venture into the unknown. But scripture reminds us:

"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43:19)

Fear can keep us stuck. Faith calls us forward. What if, instead of seeing decline as failure, we saw it as an invitation to renewal?

Exploring New Ways of Being Church
The world has changed, and the church must adapt. This does not mean abandoning core beliefs—it means finding new ways to live them out. Consider these possibilities:

• Small but Mighty Ministry – A small group of committed disciples can have a profound impact. What if, instead of focusing on numbers, we focused on meaningful engagement in mission?

• Partnerships & Shared Spaces – Other churches, community groups, or nonprofits may welcome collaboration. Sharing space, combining ministries, or working together can create fresh energy.

• Digital & Hybrid Ministries – Many seek spiritual connection outside traditional Sunday services. Could online gatherings, small groups, or outreach efforts extend your reach?

• Missional Focus – Congregations grow when they serve. What local needs could your church address? Could you shift from “How do we bring people in?” to “How do we go out and serve?”

A Call to Courageous Faith
A struggling church is not a lost cause—it is a congregation at a crossroads. Moving forward requires courage, creativity, and deep trust in God’s guidance.

We must practice spiritual freedom—letting go of preconceived ideas in order to allow God to lead. Jesus’ ministry was never about buildings or numbers; it was about people, transformation, and the breaking in of God’s kingdom.

You are not alone, and you are not without options. God is still moving, still calling, still creating something new. The question is:
Will you step forward in faith?