Future Christian

Why do so many church renewal efforts fall short?

In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. talks with Kris Vos and Larry Doornbos of the Center for Church Renewal about what they've learned from working with more than 120 congregations across North America. Rather than offering quick fixes or flashy programs, they make the case that genuine renewal begins with listening, discipleship, and a renewed commitment to the church's mission.

The conversation explores the common challenges facing churches today—from declining attendance and outdated governance structures to unhealthy congregational cultures and the temptation to prioritize institutional survival over the gospel. Kris and Larry explain why renewal is measured in years, not months, and why churches must focus on making disciples rather than simply attracting attenders.

They also discuss practical leadership questions: how to create a culture of grace and permission, why church structures should serve mission instead of hindering it, how congregations can better connect with their communities, and what leaders can learn from Native American and Latino churches about relationships and storytelling. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize that renewal is possible—but only through patient, intentional leadership rooted in the gospel.

Together they explore:

• Why churches often misdiagnose their real problems
• The "Big Three" challenges facing most congregations
• Why outreach often fails to build lasting relationships
• How church governance can either enable or hinder mission
• Why renewal takes far longer than most churches expect
• When churches should pursue renewal—and when it may be time to "complete and bless"
• Lessons from Native American and Latino congregations

Kris Vos is the campus pastor of a church restart in Lake Worth, FL that is part of Sunlight Community Church campuses of South Florida. He is also the Director of the Center for Church Renewal. Previously, he spent 20 years leading a church plant, Crossroads Community Church, in Schererville, IN. On his journey of church planting, he spent time learning from and training other church planters. Currently, in the work of renewal he has come alongside other renewal leaders. His greatest passion is building relationships with people who don’t know Christ. He was discipled for 2 years in college and continues to invest himself in discipling others. He is married to Debra and together they have four children and four grandchildren.

Larry Doornbos loves and is committed to the local church. He is an experienced pastor, church planter, and leader. He began his ministry in Rehoboth, New Mexico. During his time Rehoboth CRC took fresh steps in ministry and mission. In 1993, Larry, along with a core group of seven families, began EverGreen Ministries in Hudsonville, Michigan. EverGreen is an outward-facing church that serves its community and the world. Larry served as Director of Vibrant Congregations, helping congregations discover their God-given, hope-filled future. Presently he is president of Imagine Church and director of the New Horizons Project. In his free time Larry loves hanging out with his wife Linda (professor at Oakland University), exploring cities and viewing British TV. He also works out, but he does not enjoy that at all. Linda and Larry have two children: Gayle, a professor at Dordt University, and Chris, a special-needs young man who inspires many.

 

Mentioned Resources:

🌐 Website: ChurchRenew.org

📱 Socials: @centerforchurchrenewal

🎧 Episodes Referenced: Jarrod Longbohns

🎧 Episodes Referenced: Andrew Root

 

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Supporting Sponsors:

Martha's New Book! Anne Boleyn: Reputation, Revolution, Religion, and the Queen Who Changed History - Available now!

Loren's New Book: The Church as Community Hub: Sharing Spaces to Help Neighborhoods Thrive - Available for pre-order!

Free Range Priest Helping clergy and congregations reimagine ministry in the digital age.

 

Future Christian Team:

Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer

Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host

Dennis Sanders – Producer

 

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