Remember all those predictions about flying cars and robot pets in the 21st century? Turns out, the future’s a lot like the past, just older. Well… we are to come to think of it! Is that why anxiety, depression, and loneliness are so prevalent? After a global financial crisis, environmental woes, and constant worries about pandemics, it’s no wonder we’re stressed!
Which makes the ongoing decline in Church attendance… understandable. We’re still recovering from the social distancing of COVID. Perhaps COVID is not to blame. Perhaps traditional services just don’t hold the same appeal for an aging and shrinking congregation. Political dissention is fracturing the largest denominations, and individual churches are breaking away. The sense of community that once drew people to church is fading away. Is there still time to reignite that spart, those “Glimmers” of joy and happiness that once graced churches?
Instead of focusing on big, infrequent events, churches could cultivate joy through smaller and more frequent gatherings. Imagine replacing negativity with “glimmers” of happiness – those little things that lift our spirits… a child’s laughter, a puppy’s playful nudge, the scent of blooming flowers – these seemingly insignificant moments can brighten our day. Enough glimmers just might create a joyful future.
Adding some new activities might work. The most depressing time of year for many, is the Winter. Winter’s dark days can bring on the blues. Yet, your church can be a beacon of light that calls back missing congregants. Here are some ideas to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and foster connection:
Coffee & Tea Socials: Most Americans enjoy a warm beverage. Host tastings with exotic options like Vietnamese coffee or Darjeeling tea. This creates a casual atmosphere for conversation and connection.
Lighten Up: Light therapy mimics sunlight and combats Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD). Vitamin D also improves mood. The human body produces its own vitamin D when exposed to the sun, but the dark months of winter can cause a vitamin deficiency and depression. Light + vitamins might help the mildly depressed, and may inspire severely depressed individuals to seek medical help.
Functional Fungi: Consider incorporating culinary and medicinal mushrooms into the mix. Mushrooms have medically proven abilities to improve health. Mushroom coffee or tea blends can combat depression, anxiety, and even improve memory.
Sounds Soothing: Calming music and nature sounds uplift spirits. Conversely, individuals who experience hearing loss have reduced brain stimulation. Medical studies show a correlation between hearing loss and early onset Alzheimer’s (and other forms of senility).
Aromatic Approach: Essential oils, such as lemon, have medically proven mood-boosting properties. Other oils have anti-bacterial properties, or provide other health benefits. Carefully crafted aroma therapy sessions can create a relaxing and uplifting atmosphere.
Virtual Getaways: Take members on virtual tours of breathtaking locations using high-resolution videos. This can be a good start on its own for making members of your church happy. It can also inspire real-world outings and spark conversations.
Breathing for Bliss: The military uses “Box Breathing” to manage anxiety. This simple technique can be taught to anyone in just minutes. It can be tremendously useful for individuals who are susceptible to anxiety attacks or a sudden onset of depression.
MAKE IT GLIMMER: Imagine a large screen displaying a vibrant forest scene with nature sounds filling the air. Then the room fills with the aroma of pine and earth, calming and energizing. Guests sip mushroom tea or unique coffees, occasionally stopping to practice Box Breathing exercises. This immersive experience not only combats winter blues, but it provides a “glimmer” of the coming spring and summer.
By incorporating these ideas, your church can become a haven for those struggling with winter blues, fostering a supportive community and encouraging future outdoor adventures together. Remember, winter may be long, but with a little creativity, your church can be a beacon of hope and keep spirits high!