Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Management

Advisor

Mike G. Lavelle

Abstract

Church membership is declining, and the number of Americans identifying as having no religious affiliation is increasing. Church members can provide for a community’s spiritual and financial needs and promote the growth of evangelical believers and biblical stewardship. However, some pastors, ministerial staff, and ministry leaders lack effective leadership strategies to sustain membership. Grounded in transformational leadership theory, the purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore leadership strategies Southern Baptist church leaders from three churches in Pennsylvania use to sustain membership. Participants were three church leaders who sustained church membership for 3 years or longer. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and church documents and analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes emerged: (a) understanding the vision, pastoral training; (b) being relational, maintaining youth membership, technology; (c) understanding and providing for the needs of the community; and (d) following up with members and nonmembers. A key recommendation is for church leaders to involve church members in projects to help members become active and engaged in the church’s vision. The implications for positive social change include the potential to enhance education and civic and social involvement in individuals, families, and communities.

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