Assimilation Study

 

David Durey, Director of the Intentional Discipleship Network, in cooperation with Mission Portland conducted a study with the purpose of identifying transferable principles drawn from several churches that had been successful in attracting and assimilating unchurched people.  The multi-case approach selected leading churches from among the fifty largest churches in the Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington metropolitan area and conducted on-site interviews.  

 

The major findings of this study were in three areas: personal relationships, intentionality, and small groups. Personal relationships were the most significant reason why unchurched people were attracted to and stayed in church.  These churches were intentional in reaching lost people, welcoming visitors, and providing spiritual formation.  Finally, small groups were the most effective means of helping new people form significant relationships and grow spiritually.

 

Attracting and Assimilating the Unchurched in the 21st Century

• Assimilation Study Summary (13 page overview of the research/findings)

• Helping Newcomers Connect, Grow, and Stay (an article published in Net Results magazine)

• Assimilating New People Into the Church (25 page review of literature)

• Assimilation Charts (presentation slides)  Full Version (50 slides)  Short Version  (18 slides)

 

• Attracting and Assimilating the Unchurched in the 21st Century - Complete Dissertation (150 page Doctoral Dissertation plus bibliography)

 

 

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