Collegedale Church of Seventh-Day Adventists

Transcription

1 Collegedale Church of Seventh-Day Adventists Young Adult Dropout and Assimilation Study Prepared by Rainer Research Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

2 Rainer Research 2009 This report and research has been exclusively prepared for the use and dissemination of Collegedale Church of Seventh-Day Adventists. Collegedale Church of Seventh-Day Adventists must grant any use or reproduction of this material. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

3 Table of Contents Prefatory Comments 4 Executive Summary 5 Introduction 9 Methodology 11 Research Findings 16 Demographic and Psychographic Analysis 16 Major Demographic Findings 17 Major Psychographic Findings 18 Dropout Rate of Young Adults 19 Survey Results 20 Concluding Remarks 34 About Rainer Research 35 Rainer Research Bios 36 Young Adult Interviews 37 Exhaustive Demographic and Psychographic Report Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

4 Prefatory Comments On behalf of all the researchers at Rainer Research, we would like to express our appreciation to Collegedale Church. We are thankful for the opportunity to conduct research on your behalf, and we have enjoyed working closely with you. The purpose of this research is driven by the desire for Kingdom growth. In all aspects of our lives, we should be looking outward for ways to reach better our neighbors for the sake of Christ. It is our prayer that this research will aid Collegedale Church in reaching and keeping young adults and students. Nothing would excite us more than for our research to contribute directly to someone coming to know Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. This research has been a joy and a positive challenge to conduct. Thank you once again for this opportunity. Sam S. Rainer III President Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

5 Executive Summary As you will find in the research, our team was tasked to identify the dropout rate of young adults at Collegedale Church, as well as to understand key issues about young adults and students concerning the reasons they drop out or stay within the church. This summary represents our key observations and recommendations from the survey of 89 young adults at Collegedale Church. KEY OBSERVATIONS: The observations below are derived directly from our interviews with young adults and the collection of raw data. They represent the perceptions of young adults, and some of them may not reflect the reality of the church or the heart of church leadership. These findings, however, are significant in that they give a clear picture of what young adults believe about Collegedale Church. 1. Many young adults believe that Collegedale Church is essential to them. A majority of respondents identified the church as important to their spiritual development. Many noted that the church encouraged them to share and multiply their faith. A significant number of young adults also stated that they understood the purpose of Collegedale Church. Though the tone of our phone conversations with interviewees does not convey well to a transcription, we heard numerous positive comments and attitudes about the church. In fact, many expressed deep love and appreciation for the church. 2. Many young adults do not believe that Collegedale Church is essential to them. While the church has helped to disciple and mature many young adults, a significant number of students have dropped out of Collegedale Church. The average annual dropout rate is 84%. Unlike those that stayed, these dropouts were more likely to say the church did not help them develop spiritually and did not have high expectations of them. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

6 3. The lack of high expectations of students is an area that needs more improvement. One of the main driving factors of the dropout problem at Collegedale Church is the lack of high expectations of students (as perceived by the students). Only half of all respondents agreed that the church had high expectations of them. Among the dropouts, approximately one-third agreed that the church expected much of them. 4. Sabbath School is the key program among students and young adults. One of the major differences between dropouts and active students at Collegedale Church is involvement in Sabbath School. It is the most popular program among all respondents. Among active young adults, 57% were involved in Sabbath School. Only 28% of dropouts were involved in Sabbath School. 5. Most students that leave Collegedale Church do not go to another church. Only 38% of dropouts from Collegedale Church go to another church. 6. Students and young adults at Collegedale Church desire to study God s Word in depth. Many of the young adults mentioned a desire to study God's Word in depth while they were a student, but dropouts generally did not believe Collegedale Church provided this type of environment. 7. The senior pastor and his sermons rank high among reasons young adults stay in the church. When asked an open-ended question, the reason most frequently stated as to why young adults stayed in the church is Pastor Nixon and/or his sermons. 8. Building a sense of community is critical to the assimilation of young adults. When asked an open-ended question, one of the main reasons that dropouts stated they left is that they did not connect with people in the church. The second highest reason young adults stay is the connection to people in the church. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

7 RECOMMENDATIONS: These recommendations are derived from analyzing the data of the survey, from personal pastoral experience, and from consulting experience. While the leadership of Collegedale Church is better equipped to take the data from this report and move forward, I offer these insights to be used at the church leadership s discretion. 1. Reinforce the purpose of Collegedale Church to students and young adults. Many young adults view Collegedale Church as essential to their lives. A significant minority does not view Collegedale Church as essential. A substantial portion of those who do not believe the church is essential drop out. Reinforcing the purpose of the church from the pulpit, Sabbath School, and other venues will align young adults around a common vision of the church. 2. Raise the bar of expectations among students and young adults. Only half of all young adults believe that the church expected much of them. Only one-third of dropouts believed the church had high expectations. In general, the younger generation has a desire to be part of something bigger what they can achieve as individuals. By raising the bar of expectations (or communicating better the current high expectations), students will view the church as a way of being part of the biggest mission of all God s mission. 3. Emphasize the importance of Sabbath School. One of the largest discrepancies between dropouts and those who remained active was attendance in Sabbath School. In general, those who attended Sabbath School were more likely to stay in the church. Those who did not attend Sabbath School were more likely to drop out. This emphasis Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

8 should come naturally, since Sabbath School is already the program most frequently attended by students. 4. Emphasize the importance of community. Many dropouts noted that they did not connect with the people of the church. Many of those who stayed noted how they felt connected. Collegedale Church is a relatively large church. A sense of community will likely not occur through corporate worship services. This sense of community is best emphasized in small groups, preferably through the Sabbath School program. 5. Create a way to follow-up intentionally with dropouts. Most dropouts that leave Collegedale Church do not attend another church. And our research reveals that as many as one-third of dropouts return because of the invitation of a close friend or family member. Using current active young adults to invite others in a similar life stage back to church may be one of the more successful ways in reclaiming those who have left. 6. Emphasize biblical depth. Students are craving deep biblical truths; Collegedale Church is not an exception. In fact, we heard in our interviews that many enjoyed the fact that the sermons were not biblically light. The church should continue to emphasize biblical depth. 7. The pastor should continue to connect with students and young adults through the sermons. One of the main factors in keeping young adults is the connection they feel to the sermons of the senior pastor. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

9 Introduction In late 2008 Collegedale Church contacted Rainer Research to perform an assessment of young adults that have left the church and those that have stayed in the church. The driving factors for the research included the following: Perform a qualitative survey of 60 students and young adults ages at Collegedale Church Understand the dropout rate at Collegedale Church Analyze reasons why students are leaving Collegedale Church Analyze reasons why students are staying at Collegedale Church In November 2008 Rainer Research submitted a proposal to Collegedale Church detailing an approach to research the above factors. This proposal was accepted shortly thereafter, and an agreement was reached for the research to be completed by early April The research contained in this assessment is qualitative in nature. Ample information has been received for specific conclusions about young adults connected to Collegedale Church. A variety of assigned researchers helped to complete the project. The primary and lead consultant is Sam S. Rainer III, president of Rainer Research. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

10 Sam provided the bulk of the assessment. He was responsible for management of the research team, statistical and demographic analysis, survey design, compilation of data, and closure. Wes Tappmeyer, an analyst with Summit Energy, the world s largest buyer of power and natural gas, also provided statistical insight into the final report. He is a Master of Divinity candidate at Southern Seminary. This final product delivered to Collegedale Church includes a complete analysis in the form of a written report, raw data, and a Percept Group study analyzing the demographics and psychographics of the surrounding community. This data is the sole property of Collegedale Church to be used as they deem appropriate. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

11 Methodology The point of this research, as noted earlier, is to gain insight from young adults who have stayed in or dropped out of Collegedale Church. We define dropouts as those who were active at Collegedale Church during high school or junior high, but who no longer attend at least once a month as young adults. Young adults still active at Collegedale Church attend at least once a month. Most young adults interviewed were between 18 and 25. A total of 89 young adults were interviewed, 29 more than required in the contract. Forty were identified as dropouts, and 49 were identified as remaining active in the church. Phone interviews were utilized for all 89 young adults. This approach enabled us to hear firsthand the perspective of dropouts and those who have remained active. Conversing with the interviewees over the phone also enabled our interviewers to gain a higher response rate on the open-ended questions. Additionally, this approach provided our researchers with high quality answers. Individuals Surveyed Breaking Down the 89 Respondents Of those who were successfully interviewed, a good cross-section of the church was obtained. Both gender and age breakdowns are represented in the data. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

12 Gender. In the survey, no significant gender bias is evident. Fifty males and 39 females responded to the survey questions. Gender % of total respondents Male Female 56% 44% Age. In the survey, no significant age bias is evident. Those under 17 were intentionally screened out. Age % of total respondents % 27% 25% 9% 11% 21% Similar breakdowns are also evident in the categories of both dropouts and those who have stayed at Collegedale church. Gender. Active Respondents Dropout Respondents Male Female Male Female 57% 43% 55% 45% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

13 Age. Active Respondents % 18% 27% 6% 16% 20% Dropout Respondents % 38% 23% 13% 5% 23% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

14 Survey Questions Our research associates utilized a transcript survey form in order to retain consistency in data collection. This survey instrument was designed to collect general information about the respondents, including age, gender, and high school attended. It was also used to obtain family information from the respondents, such as whether they had experienced a divorce in the home or whether their parents attended church with them as a child. The survey was also a way to determine whether the respondent was a dropout or still active in the church. Most importantly, the survey was designed to collect information about the respondents experiences and perceptions about Collegedale Church. A Likert Scale was utilized to measure these perceptions. This type of scale is used to measure agreement or disagreement with a particular statement. In our survey, a 5-point scale represented the perceptions of the respondents. They could answer strong agreement, agreement, neither, disagreement, or strong disagreement. The Likert Scale questions were placed in four categories: simplify, deepen, expect, and multiply. These four categories are derived from a three-part national survey of over 1,000 young adults and published in the book, Essential Church, co-authored by Sam S. Rainer III. We will explain these categories in more detail later in this report. Lastly, two open-ended questions closed the survey. Those who dropped out of Collegedale Church were asked why they stopped attending. Those who remain active at Collegedale Church were asked why they continue attending. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

15 Below is the actual survey form that our research associates utilized to collect the data. Hello,, this is, calling on behalf of Collegedale Church. We would like to ask you about your perspective. We hope to gain insight into how to minister to people better. Is this a good time? We would like to ask a few questions. It should take about 10 minutes. Please know that your answers will be kept 100% confidential. [General/Demographic Questions] What is your age? [if not known] What is your gender? [if not known] Where did you attend high school? Please answer yes or no to the following questions. Do your parents currently attend a Seventh-Day Adventist church? Did they attend with you more than once a month when you were growing up? Are you currently attending Collegedale Church at least once a month? If not, are you going to church? Have you experienced a divorce in the home? The following questions apply to your experiences with Collegedale Church during either your junior high or senior high years. Please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. If you don t agree or disagree, then just say neither. [Likert Scale Questions] The church encouraged me to share my faith [Multiply] I desired to study God s Word in depth at Collegedale Church [Deepen] I understood the purpose of Collegedale Church [Simplify] The church had high expectations of me [Expect] The church helped me find a place to serve [Expect] The programs of Collegedale church helped me develop spiritually [Simplify and Deepen] Follow-up: In what church programs did you participate? [Pathfinders, Sabbath School, CAYA Community, CAYA Sports] [Open-ended questions] Why do you continue to attend Collegedale Church [if attending at least once a month]? Why have you stopped attending Collegedale Church [if attending less than once a month]? Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

16 Research Findings Our team was tasked to find reasons why dropouts left and others stayed within Collegedale Church. In order to accomplish this assignment, our team researched the community demographics and psychographics, interviewed 89 young adults connected to Collegedale Church, and synthesized all the data for a cohesive picture of these young adults perspectives about Collegedale Church. Demographic and Psychographic Analysis Perceptions and values are not created in a vacuum. The context of the community surrounding the church plays an important role in shaping the perceptions of young adults. Of the total list of 610 young adults given to Rainer Research by Collegedale Church, 484 (or 80%) of students come from zip codes (208), (59), (111), (44), (50), (13). Therefore, we concentrated our community research in these zip codes. Zip code is a post office box address, so no data could be drawn from it. However, most young adults with this post office box zip code likely reside within the researched area. An exhaustive analysis of the community is provided at the end of this report. The community analysis includes both demographic and psychographic data. The demographic data refers to certain characteristics of the community as a whole. Psychographic data refers to attitudes, opinions, interests, and lifestyles of the community. Both are described in detail in the attached analysis. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

17 Major Demographic Findings The attached report contains a large amount of insight into the demographics surrounding Collegedale Church, but we wish to highlight some of the more pertinent findings here. 1. Currently, 106,940 people live in the zip codes surrounding the church. Between 2009 and 2014, the projected population increase is 5.6%, or an additional 6,000 people. Approximately 11,300 young adults (18-24) currently live in the defined area around the church. An additional 13,900 young adults (25-34) live around the church in the zip codes that were researched. If Collegedale Church were to reach just 1% of both of these young adult populations, it would amount to approximately 250 people. 2. The predominant lifestyle group in the area around the church can be defined as Middle American Families. This segment represents classic Middle America, and it includes people from the socioeconomic backgrounds of educated working families, suburban families, large young families, and established country families. For Collegedale to continue reaching these families, a strong emphasis on children and students within the church is required. Our survey results described in the next section demonstrate that young adults who stayed had the perception that the church emphasized ministry to them. Those that did not perceive this emphasis were more likely to drop out. 3. People from the area around the church are much more likely than the national average to be strongly involved with their faith. While many within the church community will not Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

18 have a church background, this area does have a higher number of people on average that are receptive to matters of faith. As a result, people within this community are much more likely than the national average to consider finding a good home church important to their personal and spiritual development. Major Psychographic Findings The attached report also includes a great deal of psychographic data. We have highlighted the more significant findings here. 1. The people in the study area prefer church programs that emphasize spiritual development to a much greater degree than the national average. Our survey results specific to Collegedale Church corroborate this general preference in the community. We found a significant amount of young adults at Collegedale Church that desired to dig deeper spiritually, as well as multiply their faith. 2. The means by which people in this community prefer to develop spiritually is through Bible discussion groups and prayer groups. Our survey of Collegedale Church young adults also revealed a desire for these types of groups. In fact, one of the major driving factors in retaining young adults is their involvement in Sabbath School. 3. People in the community generally prefer a more traditional style of worship as compared with the national average. This psychographic refers to all ages collectively. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

19 Dropout Rate of Young Adults Before we unveil the specific survey results, it is important to understand the big picture, or macro perspective, of the young adult dropout issue at Collegedale Church. As uncovered in our national research project of over 1,000 young adults, 70% of students will leave the church between the ages of 18 and 22. The dropout rate at Collegedale Church is 84%, which is slightly worse than the national average. The calculation by which we determined the dropout rate at Collegedale Church includes an average of the previous seven years. This calculation is based on membership and includes the new students that enter the church each year, as well as those that leave. The details of this rate are demonstrated in the below chart. In 2003, the negative number represents a flow of more students in the church than out of the church. A number over 100% indicates net declines in total membership (losing more than come into the church), which occurred in the previous two years. Membership (12-18 year-olds) Dropout Rate % % % % % % % Average Annual Dropout Rate 84% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

20 As indicated in the chart above, the dropout rate has escalated over the course of seven years, reaching a point of net declines in membership in 2007 and While the church does draw new students each year, more are leaving through the back door. Overall, the student group has not grown numerically since 2001, flat lining during the time period. In 2001, student membership was 613. In 2008, student membership had declined 6 to 607. In other words, for every new student that comes in the front door, one leaves through the back door. The dropout rate close to 100% is evidence of this phenomenon. Survey Results The bulk of our analysis is derived from the young adult survey. As mentioned previously, 89 young adults were interviewed. Forty were determined to have dropped out of the church. Forty-nine stayed in the church. The below results and commentary are presented according to each question. The influence of Collegedale Academy and other schools. The vast majority of respondents attended Collegedale Academy. No other high school had a significant representation. It does not appear that the dropout rate is driven by attendance at Collegedale Academy (CA) or any other high school. The dropout rates for those attending Collegedale Academy and those who do not are approximately the same. In other words, students who attend Collegedale Academy are no more or less likely to dropout of Collegedale Church. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

21 Total Respondents Attend CA Other HS 73% 27% Active Respondents Dropout Respondents Attend CA Other HS Attend CA Other HS 69% 31% 78% 23% Parental influence. The vast majority of respondents have parents who are currently attending a Seventh-Day Adventist church. There is a slightly higher rate of dropouts for those who have parents not attending a Seventh-Day Adventist church. The split category refers to respondents who indicated that one parent attended a Seventh-Day Adventist church and another who did not. Do your parents currently attend a Seventh-Day Adventist church? Total Respondents Y N Split 83% 7% 10% Active Respondents Y N Split 84% 4% 12% Dropout Respondents Y N Split 83% 10% 8% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

22 The vast majority of respondents had parents who attended church (most at a Seventh-Day Adventist church) with them at least once a month. Slightly more dropouts reported that their parents did not attend with them. Our national research indicates that there is a correlation between parents attending church with students and those students remaining in church. In other words, the more parents attend with their children, the more likely they will stay in the church. This relationship appears to be the case with Collegedale Church as well. Did they attend with you more than once a month when you were growing up? Total Respondents Y N Split 93% 6% 1% Active Respondents Y N Split 98% 0% 2% Dropout Respondents Y N Split 88% 13% 0% Dropout return rate. In our national study, we discovered that as many as one-third of dropouts return to church. The Collegedale Church dropouts have a similar dynamic. In fact, 38% of those that leave do attend another church at least once a month. The vast majority of Collegedale Church dropouts, however, do not attend any church. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

23 If you are no longer attending Collegedale Church, are you going to church? Dropout Respondents Yes No 38% 63% According to our previous research, the most common factor in those that return to church is encouragement from a friend or family member. Approximately one-half of those that return state that the driving factor was the invitation of a close friend or family member. Collegedale Church could see many return simply by following up with them and inviting them back. Divorce. There is no statistical significance between active respondents and dropout respondents concerning a divorce in the home. It does not appear that experiencing a divorce in the home makes a person more or less likely to drop out of Collegedale Church. This factor may be due to the fact that families at Collegedale Church are much less likely to experience a divorce than the national average. Have you experienced a divorce in the home? Total Respondents Yes No 18% 82% Active Respondents Dropout Respondents Yes No Yes No 18% 82% 18% 83% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

24 Simplify. Deepen. Expect. Multiply. The next four sections of this report will focus on the components of an Essential Church. These four components are derived from the large, national study mentioned previously. They are published in the book, Essential Church, co-authored by Sam S. Rainer III. Through this massive research project, our team was able to determine that these four components are essential to young adult assimilation in the church. In each section below, these components will be described and tied directly to Collegedale Church. The survey of Collegedale Church young adults was designed intentionally to determine whether these four components are reasons for young adults staying or leaving the church. We found them to be highly relevant to students who stayed and left Collegedale Church. Simplify: the right structure. Helping people grow more spiritually mature is not a new concern for churches. It has been the goal all along. Developing a process of discipleship within your church structure, however, is a strategic issue that is a difficult task. Many church dropouts desire to grow spiritually despite being disconnected from the body, but proper growth must come from a connection to the local church. The problem is that many churches do not have in place a clear process of spiritual growth. In order for churches to communicate best high expectations and biblical depth, a simple structure must be in place to guide and direct people towards these goals. Biblical depth is more important than the discipleship structure of the church. But churches that do not have a structure in place cannot move people towards an understanding of this depth. A culture of high expectations is more important than the structure of a church. Without Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

25 this structure, however, a church has difficulty communicating these expectations. A multiplying church is more important than the structure. But without structure, people do not know how to multiply. The right structure is not the most important facet of a church, but most churches cannot carry out their most important purposes because they do not have the right structure. We asked a simple question of young adults to determine if they have a general idea of the purpose of Collegedale Church. Understanding the purpose of the church is the first step in having the right structure. The vast majority of respondents (83%) agree or strongly agree that they understood the purpose of Collegedale Church. A significant minority of dropouts (31%), however, strongly disagree, disagree or were ambivalent about knowing the purpose of Collegedale Church. I understood the purpose of Collegedale Church Total Respondents SA A N D SD 21% 62% 6% 10% 1% Active Respondents SA A N D SD 29% 65% 2% 4% 0% Dropout Respondents SA A N D SD 13% 58% 10% 18% 3% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

26 Students that understood the purpose of Collegedale Church were more likely to stay in the church. And a significant portion of students that did not understand the purpose of Collegedale Church dropped out. Deepen: the right content. In my consultations and communications with churches across the nation, I hear the argument quite often. Many leaders think a church cannot be cool and deep at the same time. Or some argue, just because the teaching is deep, it loses its relevance, that young adults are turned off by such teaching and preaching. Through our research, we have found the opposite to be true. Young adults are more likely to drop out if the teaching is watered down. While the church will always have a selection of people that come without any intentions of growing spiritually, we have found that churches with a culture of biblical depth are more likely to keep young adults and attract others. We asked two questions about biblical depth during our interview with young adults connected to Collegedale Church. A large majority of total respondents (83%) agreed or strongly agreed that Collegedale Church provided an opportunity for biblical depth. A significant minority of dropouts (33%) either disagreed or were ambivalent about biblical depth. An overwhelming number of active respondents believed that the church provided an atmosphere encouraging deep Bible study. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

27 I desired to study God s Word in depth at Collegedale Church Total Respondents SA A N D SD 17% 66% 8% 9% 0% Active Respondents SA A N D SD 29% 67% 4% 0% 0% Dropout Respondents SA A N D SD 3% 65% 13% 20% 0% As mentioned in the psychographic findings section, the people in the study area prefer church programs that emphasize spiritual development to a much greater degree than the national average. This dynamic is also present within the Collegedale Church congregation. Almost 8 out of 10 (77%) agree or strongly agree that the programs of Collegedale Church helped them develop spiritually. A significant minority of dropouts (41%) either strongly disagreed, disagreed, or were ambivalent about the programs developing them spiritually. The programs of Collegedale church helped me develop spiritually Total Respondents SA A N D SD 21% 56% 9% 12% 1% Active Respondents SA A N D SD 31% 61% 6% 2% 0% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

28 Dropout Respondents SA A N D SD 10% 50% 13% 25% 3% While programs are not the cure-all for a church, it is clear that those who stayed in Collegedale Church were involved in more programs. Active young adults were involved in an average of 1.78 programs per student, while dropouts were involved in less than one program per student, on average. One of the more enlightening parts of the survey involved asking respondents which programs of the church they attended while in junior high school or senior high school. The below charts demonstrate the rankings of each program for total respondents, dropouts, and active respondents. Total Responses Percentage Sabbath School 39 44% CAYA Community 29 33% Pathfinders 16 18% CAYA Sports 10 11% Sunrise 7 8% Small Group/Bible Study 6 7% Vespers 6 7% Mission Trip 5 6% Music Program 3 3% VBS 3 3% Junior Deacon 2 2% Total 126 Program per student 1.42 Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

29 Active Responses Percentage Sabbath School 28 57% CAYA Community 19 39% CAYA Sports 9 18% Pathfinders 8 16% Sunrise 7 14% Small Group/Bible Study 5 10% Mission Trip 4 8% VBS 3 6% Vespers 2 4% Music Program 1 2% Junior Deacon 1 2% Total 87 Program per student 1.78 Dropout Responses Percentage Sabbath School 11 28% CAYA Community 10 25% Pathfinders 8 20% Vespers 4 10% Music Program 2 5% CAYA Sports 1 3% Small Group/Bible Study 1 3% Mission Trip 1 3% Junior Deacon 1 3% Sunrise 0 0% VBS 0 0% Total 39 Program per student 0.98 Our national research has consistently revealed the importance of a small group that builds a sense of community (like Sabbath School). In fact, over 80% of people are likely to remain in the church after five years if they attend worship and some form of a small group. Conversely, less than 20% will assimilate into the church after five years if they attend worship only. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

30 One of the major differences between dropouts and active students at Collegedale Church is involvement in Sabbath School. It is the most popular program among all respondents. Among active young adults, 57% were involved in Sabbath School. And only 28% of dropouts were involved in Sabbath School. One of the best ways that Collegedale Church can improve the dropout rate is through intentionally encouraging students to be a part of Sabbath School. Expect: the right attitude. Creating a culture of high expectations is, in many ways, an intangible process. There s many ways to do it. But our national research reveals churches that have an environment of high expectations attract young adults who are on board with the purpose and mission of the church. Additionally, these churches are more likely to retain young adults who know upfront that much is expected. One of the clearest results in the survey involved the lack of a perception that Collegedale Church had high expectations of the students. Only about half of total respondents strongly agreed or agreed that Collegedale Church had high expectations of them. A majority (65%) of dropouts strongly disagreed, disagreed or were ambivalent about the church having high expectations of them. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

31 The church had high expectations of me Total Respondents SA A N D SD 10% 42% 16% 29% 3% Active Respondents SA A N D SD 16% 49% 12% 20% 2% Dropout Respondents SA A N D SD 3% 33% 20% 40% 5% Additionally, a little over half of the dropouts responded that they disagreed or were ambivalent about the church helping to find them a place to serve. The church helped me find a place to serve Total Respondents SA A N D SD 17% 49% 9% 25% 0% Active Respondents SA A N D SD 18% 61% 6% 12% 0% Dropout Respondents SA A N D SD 15% 33% 13% 40% 0% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

32 Multiply: the right action. Essential churches are multiplying churches because they constantly seek to look and reach beyond themselves. They thus multiply with the presence of new Christians and with the return of the dechurched. Many are multiplying churches because they start new churches, new campuses, and new ministries. It is that outward focus that attracts and retains young adults. They want to be a part of something that is making a difference by the sharing and multiplying of their faith. This desire for multiplication is present within those that stayed at Collegedale Church. Over 8 out of 10 (83%) of overall respondents agree or strongly agree that the church encourages them to share their faith. But a significant number of dropouts (35%) either disagree or were ambivalent about multiplication. The church encouraged me to share my faith Total Respondents SA A N D SD 20% 63% 4% 12% 0% Active Respondents SA A N D SD 24% 73% 0% 2% 0% Dropout Respondents SA A N D SD 15% 50% 10% 25% 0% Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

33 From their perspective: why they left and why they stayed. Our research team ended the survey with an open-ended question. We asked those who dropped out why they decided to leave. We asked those who stayed why they continued attending Collegedale Church. Every response was unique, and we transcribed each of them in the individual survey responses at the end of this report. After reading and analyzing each response, we uncovered themes that tied the responses together. We categorized these responses and then ranked them according to their frequency. The rankings below represent the top reasons that young adults stated why they left or why they stayed. The top three reasons why dropouts stated they left 1. Did not connect with the people 10 responses 25% 2. Moved away 7 responses 18% 3. Attending another church 3 responses 8% The top four reasons why young adults continue to attend Collegedale Church 1. Sermons/Pastor Nixon 18 responses 37% 2. Connection to people in the church 10 responses 20% 3. Grew up in the church 9 responses 18% 4. Location 4 responses 8% The senior pastor and his sermons are one of the main reasons young adults stay in the church. One of the main reasons that dropouts stated they left is that they did not connect with people in the church. The second reason they stay is the connection to people in the church. This evidence corroborates the importance of Sabbath School. If these students and young adults can connect to people in a similar life stage in these groups, dropout and assimilation rates will improve. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

34 Concluding Remarks Every great pastor and church leader wants nothing more than to grow God s Kingdom and see many within their community come to Christ. It is our prayer that this report will play a small yet vital part of helping your leadership team with such a challenge. Indeed, the Great Commission is a challenge in a myriad of ways. One way of overcoming hurdles, however, is to be better informed of the community and those connected with your church. We hope that this report will provide answers that will better equip Collegedale Church in reaching the community for Christ. To God be all the glory forever. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

35 About Rainer Research Providing answers for better church health Rainer Research was founded in 1989 by Dr. Thom Rainer, now the President and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources. For the last 20 years, we have provided research and consulting to a variety of churches, denominations, businesses, and other groups. Our mission is to provide answers for better church health. We work with local congregations, businesses, publishers, denominations, and other organizations to help move the church forward. We aim to help churches and other groups see their own story, to understand past trends, and how they may affect their future health. We provide a variety of services including custom research, complete survey work, comprehensive church consultations, expert testimony, and leadership development coaching. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

36 Rainer Research Bios ABOUT SAM S. RAINER III Sam S. Rainer III serves as president of Rainer Research, a firm dedicated to providing answers for better church health. He also serves as campus pastor at Sarasota Baptist Church, a multi-site church on the suncoast of Florida. Sam is the co-author of the recently released book, Essential Church. He is a contributing editor at Outreach Magazine, as well as an editorial advisor for a Christianity Today publication, and he has written articles for several publications. He is a frequent conference speaker on church health issues. Sam has worked in a procurement consulting role for Fortune 1000 companies in which he managed a $400 million portfolio of power and natural gas commodities. Sam holds a BS in Finance and Marketing from the University of South Carolina and an MA in Missiology from Southern Seminary. He is a PhD candidate in Leadership Studies at Dallas Baptist University. Sam enjoys hanging out with friends and family in the Florida sunshine. You can connect with Sam at twitter.com/samrainer, or at his blog, samrainer.wordpress.com. ABOUT WES TAPPMEYER Wes serves as a senior research analyst at Rainer Research. He has an extensive background in statistical analysis, and he manages a multi-million dollar portfolio at the world s largest commodity consulting firm. Wes is a Master of Divinity candidate at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

37 Young Adult Interviews Rainer Research Cattle Egret Place Lakewood Ranch, FL T

38 Collegedale Church #1 Transcript and Interview Questions Hello,, this is, calling on behalf of Collegedale Church. We would like to ask you about your perspective. We hope to gain insight into how to minister to people better. ls this a good time? We would like to ask a few questions. lt should take about 10 minutes. Please know that your answers will be kept 100% confidential. [General/Demographic Questions]. What is your age? [if not known] 21. What is your gender? lif not known] M. Where did you attend high school? Miami FL Please answer yes or no to the following questions'. Do your parents currently attend a Seventh-Day Adventist church? Y and N. Did they attend with you more than once a month when you were growing up? Y. Are you currently attending Collegedale Church at least once a month? Y. lf not, are you going to church?. Have you experienced a divorce in the home? Y high or senior high years. Please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree with t e following statements. lf you don't agree or disagree, then just say neither. - College experience [Likert Scale Questions]. The church encouraged me to share my faith [Multiply] SA I desired to study God's Word in depth at Collegedale Church [Deepen] SA. I understood the purpose of Collegedale Church [Simplify] SA The church had high expectations of me [Expect] D. The church helped me find a place to serve [Expect] D. The programs of Collegedale church helped me develop spiritually [Simplify and Deepen] D. Follow-up: ln what church programs díd you participate? [Pathfinders, Sabbath School, CAYA CommunitY, CAYA SPortsl [Open-ended questions]. Why do you continue to attend Collegedale Church [if attending at least once a month]? Because Nixon is amazing, I love when he breaks the bread on Sabbath morning

39 Collegedale Church #2 Transcript and Interview Questions Hello,, this is, calling on behalf of Collegedale Church. We would like to ask you about your perspective. We hope to gain insight into how to minister to people better. ls this a good time? We would like to ask a few questions. lt should take about 10 minutes. Please know that your answers will be kept 100% confidential. [General/Demographic Questions]. What is your age? [if not known] 18. What is your gender? [if not known] M. Where did you attend high school? CA currently Please answer yes or no to the following questions.. Do your parents currently attend a Seventh-Day Adventist church? Y. Did they attend with you more than once a month when you were growing up? Y. Are you currently attending Collegedale Church at least once a month? Y. lf not, are you going to church?. Have you experienced a divorce in the home? N high or senior high years. Please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. lf you don't agree or disagree, then just say neither. ILikert Scale Questions]. The church encouraged me to share my faith lmultiply] A I desired to study God's Word in depth at Collegedale Church [Deepen] A. I understood the purpose of Collegedale Church lsimplify] A The church had high expectations of me [Expect] A The church helped me find a place to serve [Expect] SA. The programs of Collegedale church helped me develop spiritually [Simplify and Deepen] A. Follow-up: ln what church programs did you participate? [Pathfinders, Sabbath School, CAYA Community, CAYA Sportsl Sunrise, CAYA Sports [Open-ended questions]. Why do you continue to attend Collegedale Church [if attending at least once a month]? Because I enjoy it, it has a good environment, the people.

40 Collegedale Church #3 Transcript and lnterview Questions Hello, _, this is, calling on behalf of Collegedale Church. We would like to ask you about your perspective. We hope to gain insight into how to minister to people better. ls this a good time? We would like to ask a few questions. Please know that your answers will be kept 100% confidential. [General/Demographic Questions]. What is your age? [if not known] 19. What is your gender? [if not known] F. Where did you attend high school? Homeschooled Please answer yes or no to the following questions. Do your parents currently attend a Seventh-Day Adventist church? Y Did they attend with you more than once a month when you were growing up? Y Are you currently attending Collegedale Church at least once a month? Y lf not, are you going to church?. Have you experienced a divorce in the home? N high or senior high years. Please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. lf you don't agree or disagree, then just say neither. ILikert Scale Questions] - College years The church encouraged me to share my faith lmultiply] A I desired to study God's Word in depth at Collegedale Church [Deepen] A I understood the purpose of Collegedale Church lsimplify] A The church had high expectations of me [Expect] A The church helped me find a place to serve [Expect] A - just havent' advantage. The programs of Collegedale church helped me develop spiritually [Simplify and Deepen] A. Follow-up: In what church programs did you participate? [Pathfinders, Sabbath School, CAYA Community, CAYA Sportsl Renewal (college) [Open-ended questions]. Why do you continue to attend Collegedale Church [if attending at least once a month]? I appreciate the sermons and how welcoming it is

41 Collegedale Church #4 Transcript and lnterview Questions Hello, this is, calling on behalf of Collegedale Church. We would like to ask you about your perspective. We hope to gain insight into how to minister to people better. ls this a good time? -, We would like to ask a few questions. lt should take about 10 minutes. Please know that your answers will be kept 100% confidential. [General/Demographic Questions]. What is your age? [if not known] 23. What is your gender? [if not known] M. Where did you attend high school? CA Please answer yes or no to the following questions. Do your parents currently attend a Seventh-Day Adventist church? Y Did they attend with you more than once a month when you were growing up? Y. Are you currently attending Collegedale Church at least once a month? Y. lf not, are you going to church?. Have you experienced a divorce in the home? N high or senior high years. Please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. lf you don't agree or disagree, then just say neither. [Likert Scale Questions]. The church encouraged me to share my faith [Multiply] A. I desired to study God's Word in depth at Collegedale Church [Deepen] A. I understood the purpose of Collegedale Church [Simplify] A. The church had high expectations of me [Expect] A. The church helped me find a place to serve [Expect] A. The programs of Collegedale church helped me develop spiritually [Simplify and Deepen] A. Follow-up: ln what church programs did you participate? [Pathfinders, Sabbath School, CAYA Community, CAYA Sportsl mission trip to Costa Rica, "deeper guys"? Bible study, he preached a sermon in one of the services [Open-ended questions]. Why do you continue to attend Collegedale Church [if attending at least once a month]? Grew up in the church, liked the Sabbath school, youth programs were fun but did not learn much about the Bible, Continental Breakfast once a wk we do a study that correlates w/ thê sermon increases the absorbance of the word,