The 2030 Problem: Church Renewal Steps For Graying Congregations

By the year 2030, all Baby Boomers will be 65 or older, and for the first time in U.S. history, older adults will outnumber children. This profound demographic shift is known as the “2030 Problem,” and it will stress national healthcare, retirement, and labor systems.

• This demographic trend will also affect churches in numerous ways. Many older members will require new forms of care, community, and connection. As congregations grow grayer, it may be challenging to reach out to young families. And as members pass away, the church’s budget may shrink significantly.
• These new realities will be particularly challenging for those who work in the field of church renewal. Below are some guiding principles to help us honor older members, love all generations, and continue innovating toward a mission-driven future.

Seven Principles to Guide Our Work

Principle 1. Staff For Future Needs

• It is wise to look at least 3-5 years ahead and hire toward the needs you anticipate. Our church recently hired a retired minister who serves part-time on our staff in congregational care. His work focuses especially on those who are age 70 and above. He finds the work fulfilling, our people are served well, and other staff are able to spend the time needed to move the mission forward!

Principle 2. Enlist Older Members In the Mission

• Older members should not be sidelined. In fact, you may be surprised how many long to serve in important roles. Because of their life experiences and flexible schedules, some may make fantastic mentors. Others may be eager to serve in hospitality ministries to combat the loneliness that can come with aging.

Principle 3. Discuss Estate Planning

• As people age, they begin to think about the legacy they will leave. Many would include their church in their plans, but they are simply never asked. Various groups offer seminars and services if you would prefer taking a more “hands-off” approach.

Principle 4. Celebrate the Mission and Vision  

• A vibrant church that is growing and thriving brings energy to everyone — including older members. A couple in their 90s recently moved from California to Michigan, and they said they picked our church because there were so many children! They — and others —understand that reaching outsiders and young people with the gospel is the mission — not coasting and maintaining the status quo.

Principle 5. Create Intergenerational Opportunities

• Many churches tend to create siloed programs for people at various stages of life. While those ministries are useful, it is such a blessing to bring people of different ages together. Strive to make sure everyone has not only someone of a similar age to connect with, but also someone younger and older.

Principle 6. Get creative with your invitations

• The reality is that if a family with young children shows up and realizes there are no other young children (and also probably no robust ministries for young children), they will leave. How do you combat that? I knew one pastor who successfully launched children’s ministries by inviting everyone with kids to show up on the same Sunday to visit his church!

Principle 7. Consider Merging or Completing

• As they age, some churches may find that they are not financially sustainable. Others may be unable to complete a turnaround toward effective outreach again. At this point, the wise thing may be to complete your journey and to provide the resources for new life to emerge through another church. This decision may be difficult to make, but it is often the best stewardship. We offer an assessment, coaching, and assistance through our Renewal Legacy Project for churches at this juncture.

The 2030 Problem is real, and it is coming quickly. However, it does not have to be a crisis if we begin preparing now with creativity, courage, and Christ-centered love.