TL;DR
Church attendance is declining, with many members now attending just once a month. This shift challenges churches to maintain connection and engagement. OnlineGiving.org offers tools like mobile apps, chatbots, custom forms, text marketing, and event triggers to help churches engage members wherever they are. These solutions go beyond donation processing, fostering deeper connections, improving communication, and encouraging regular attendance.
Church attendance patterns are shifting dramatically, with the fastest-growing group now consisting of individuals who attend just once a month. This trend, reflecting a broader decline in overall attendance, poses a significant challenge for churches striving to stay connected and engaged with their members. Even among those previously considered 'active,' attendance has dwindled to only once or twice a month—a reality church leaders cannot afford to ignore.
One of the leading church growth strategists, Thom Rainer, had this to say about this new trend:
“One of the most disturbing trends we are seeing is the decreasing frequency of attendance. Two decades ago, a frequent church attendee was considered a person who attended church services or activities once or twice a week. Prior to the pandemic, the twice-a-month church attendee was considered active by most church members and leaders. But one of the trends emerging from the pandemic is the increasing number of once-a-month attendees.” 1.
He summarized the concern by saying, “We were lamenting the twice-a-monthers in 2019. We are challenged by the once-a-monthers now. At this point, churches are doing little to address this problem.”
As a church leader, you’ve likely felt the weight of these changes. Perhaps you’ve seen faces that once filled your pews fade into the background, or you’ve noticed members who seem eager to stay connected yet struggle to prioritize regular attendance. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about people. Every missed Sunday represents someone you care about, someone whose spiritual growth matters deeply to you.
So, how can churches address this challenge? How can you stay connected and engaged with “active” members who only attend once or twice a month? One answer is to work to keep engaging with members no matter where they are.
At OnlineGiving.org, we understand this concern deeply. As an engagement platform specializing in digital giving, we are committed to helping churches strengthen connections with their members and guests. Engagement is key—the more engaged a person is with your church, the more likely they are to remain active and contribute to the mission. That’s why our platform isn’t just a tool; it’s a solution designed to empower your church to stay engaged with its members and effectively communicate its message, wherever they are.
Powerful Tools for Today’s Churches
Here’s how OnlineGiving.org can help bridge the gap with those irregular attendees:
1. Mobile App
Our user-friendly apps put your church’s message in the pockets of your members, making it easier for them to stay connected and engaged. With features like push notifications for important updates, event calendars, and easy access to sermons, the app ensures your members never feel out of touch, no matter how often they attend in person.
Learn more about our mobile app.
2. Chatbots
Immediate connection matters, especially for guests or less frequent attendees. Our Church Chatbots enable quick, personalized, text-message responses to members, fostering a sense of care and responsiveness.
Discover the power of church chatbots.
3. Custom Form Builder
Simplify tasks like collecting connection cards, event sign-ups, and special donation collections with our intuitive Custom Form Builder, seamlessly integrated with your Church Management System. This tool saves you time while increasing engagement and productivity.
Learn more about custom forms.
4. Text Marketing
Keep members informed and inspired with text messages that share devotionals, reading plans, or event reminders. Regular communication can help keep your church top of mind, even when members aren’t physically present.
5. Event Triggers
Automate key touchpoints in your engagement journey. For instance, when a guest fills out a connection card, you can trigger a personalized welcome email introducing them to your church and encouraging further involvement.
Engaging members beyond Sunday services doesn’t just fill the seats—it deepens relationships, fosters community, and supports spiritual growth.
Moving Forward
Is your current online giving platform equipping your church to engage and inspire your congregation, or is it focused solely on processing donations? Engagement is the key to fostering deeper connections, encouraging regular attendance, and supporting your mission.
Let us help your church thrive in this changing landscape. Schedule a free demonstration of our strategy today by contacting us at (615) 206-4000 or support@onlinegiving.org. Together, we can inspire your members to stay connected—no matter how often they walk through your doors.
Are you seeing more 'once-a-month' churchgoers? You're not alone! Discover how to keep your congregation connected with tools like mobile apps, chatbots, and more. Let’s bridge the communication gap!https://t.co/R7S9FotRi6 pic.twitter.com/l9oebOe43N
— Online Giving (@onlinegivingorg) January 28, 2025
1. https://churchanswers.com/blog/the-once-a-month-churchgoers-are-becoming-more-common/