The Power of Why

This past weekend I worshiped at an Episcopal church in Savannah, Georgia. It became apparent this small congregation had experienced a split in the past year, and were in a process of re-evaluating their purpose. During announcements at the end of the service, a working group reported on their plan for reconciliation: small groups of remaining parishioners would visit every person who had left, with an emphasis on listening.

Virtually every person in the pews signed up to participate.

It was evidence of the power of “Why.” This congregation that had been adrift chose what was a powerful Why for them: to pursue reconciliation with former members. This purpose for existence clearly mattered to the people in the pews that Sunday morning.

I don’t know whether this “Why” is the best one for that congregation, or whether they will succeed. However, I was glad they had a compelling purpose. Simon Sinek gives a potent TED talk on the power of “Why”, and has a book on the subject as well. The premise is this: “Why” comes first, and effective leaders have a clear and compelling Why.

Often times in churches we are seeking the “How” long before we’re clear on the “Why.” Actually, a “Why” generally exists; it just may not be spoken or acknowledged. The “Why” might be to get enough people pledging to pay the bills, or to keep the church operating in just the way that makes us comfortable.

Because we don’t always recognize our “Why” – or want to recognize it – we often chase “How” instead. We ask, “How do we get young families to attend?” (when we’re really wondering who will pay the bills and do the work now that we’re getting tired). Or we wonder, “How can we get people to pledge more?” (when we’re really just wanting to meet the budget). When starting with “Why”, we are more likely to say, “Our neighborhood is full of young families; what can we do to support them?” Or we say, “We want to help people have a more faithful relationship with all of the things God has placed in their lives. How can we do that?”

We can choose to align ourselves to the “Why” that God intends for our congregations. Each community will have slightly different expressions of their roles in God’s kingdom, based on the needs and circumstances of their neighborhoods. With true alignment will come passion and vitality. The work may still be hard, but it will be the kind of hard work that brings peace that passes understanding.

What is your congregation’s “Why”? Is it openly stated and well-understood? Is it focused on maintaining your comfort, or on making an impact on others? If you’re struggling, it might be time to start with “Why”.

Greg