I just got done reading a post over at the Center for Church Communication’s blog all about getting what you preach for. Go read it, then come back.

OK, good, you’re back now. What is your ministry preaching? What is its primary focus? Are you really preaching those things, or do you just think you are? Examine your ministry today. Look at what you think is your “big thing”. Maybe your ministry’s big thing is outreach. Or family ministry. Or loving kids. Then go and ask your volunteers and parents what they feel is being communicated. Do they feel that your “big thing” is flashy programs or cheesy 1950’s era picture books?

If your idea of your “big thing” lines up with what you’re actually communicating, great. If it doesn’t, look at where your downfalls are. Then go back, fix those things, then resurvey again in a few months. You may find out it’ll make life a whole lot easier.