Skip to main content

5 ways the church could reach ALL students

Luke Smith | January 17, 2017

5 ways the church could reach ALL students
Reading time: 1 minute
Share:

As I travel to each university location I am always amazed at the huge numbers of students who are not part of a church. It is usually about 99% of the student population who are disconnected from church, with 1% in regular attendance.

Most churches spend the majority of their time, resources and energy thinking about how to look after the 1% rather than reaching the 99%. I believe this needs to change. If we are happy with how things are, then let's just carry on with the same old models and practices. But if we want to see the statistics move, then we need to be willing to think and act differently.

Here are five things we could do or improve in order to reach a wider percentage of students:

1. Plant Churches near newer universities

2. Welcome all students

3. Work with the Students’ Union

4. Mentor students

5. Be ready for mess

I hope this encourages you and the church. My intention is not to criticise or deconstruct but to offer practical suggestions that may lead to growth. I also want to recognise that my list of 5 is by no means exhaustive and I want to encourage lots more creativity in this area. 

Categories: Churches
Share:
Luke Smith

Luke Smith

National Team Leader (England & Wales)


Since being a student in the late 90s, Luke has worked with university students in the local church to call them be missionaries to their own generation. He leads the Fusion team in England and Wales to keep them sharp in their mission. He believes in good storytelling, God adventures, and not taking ourselves too seriously. He lives in York with his wife, Hannah, and their two lads.

Connect with Fusion