One Church, Four Generations: Understanding and Reaching All Ages in Your Church - Softcover

The challenge facing today's church is simultaneous and effective ministry to people of four widely divergent generations. More than at any time in history, pastors must plan programs that will appeal to a mosaic of groups and subgroups. This updated edition of Three Generations: Riding the Waves of Change in Your Church adds an entirely new section on Bridgers, the youngest generation and perhaps the most difficult one to reach for Christ. Characteristics, interests, and values of each group--Builders, Boomers, Busters, and Bridgers--are explored in relation to the historical events and social trends that have shaped them. McIntosh thoughtfully analyzes the factors that influence each generation's relationship to the church, and he gives helpful suggestions for types of ministry and worship styles to draw members of that group. Helpful tables offer summaries of information relating to each generation, including formative experiences, religious characteristics, and methods of ministry. Pastors, church leaders, seminary professors, and students will find One Church, Four Generations a valuable resource in mapping out strategies for relevant church programming in the twenty-first century.

Church leaders of the twenty-first century, perhaps more than at any time in history, must reach out to a variety of groups within the church. How can worship services be modified to attract young people without driving the older members away? Is it possible for a church to have an intergenerational ministry? How can churches keep the youngest members involved?

One Church, Four Generations gives thoughtful insight into the four generations found in churches today, exploring the qualities, values, and interests of each group in relation to the historical events and social trends that have shaped them. You'll find practical suggestions for types of ministry and worship styles that will draw each generation-from the oldest generation of Builders to the youngest crowd of Bridgers. Helpful tables offer summaries of generational characteristics, common needs and concerns, and ways to reach the unchurched.

"One Church, Four Generations is at once an encyclopedia, history, and cat scan of ourselves and those around us-all in an exciting, readable, practical form. What a great resource to understand your parents, kids, yourself, and, most of all, your church!" Dr. Kent Hunter, The Church Doctor, Corrunna, Indiana

"This is essential reading. The emerging generation is particularly challenging to comprehend and to effectively engage. McIntosh provides insightful clues for discipling them." Dr. Daniel Reeves, president, Reeves Strategic Consultation

"I can think of no better introduction to generational differences than Gary McIntosh's helpful primer!" Dr. Bob Whitesel, senior editor of strategies, Today's Leader magazine
This book is an updated and expanded version of Three Generations: Riding the Waves of Change in Your Church