Have you heard of the game Geoguessr? In it, you’re dropped somewhere on a digital map and asked to figure out where you are by paying attention to the clues around you.
Church life can feel like that too. Before we can move forward, we first need to understand where we are right now.
At CBOQ, our heart is to help every church listen to God and discern their next steps. But that begins with an honest look at the present.
Like the game, we need to look for clues to know where we are before we can move forward.”
In the 1990s, CBOQ had over 440 churches. Today, we are a family of 294.
Most of our churches are small. Some that were once large and thriving now struggle to sustain buildings that feel too big. Many leaders worry about the absence of younger generations, or the difficulty of finding pastors. Others are vibrant and growing, but still need support for healthy systems.
Wherever your church finds itself, the first step is knowing your season.
Honest looking helps us move to helpful living.”
– Rev. Leanne Friesen
Every church moves through different phases over time.
Using George Bullard’s Church Life Cycle framework, we look at four key areas:
These rise and fall over time, shaping the season your church is in.
God’s calling and direction for the church.
The strength of community and belonging.
The ministries and activities that carry out mission.
The systems and structures that keep the church sustainable.
[ High VRPM: full of energy and growth ]
Hayden and Samantha sensed God calling them to plant a church in their neighbourhood. Starting with a dozen people, they built strong vision and relationships. Soon programs emerged — Sunday services, a midweek gathering, and a community meal. With governance and policies in place, New Plant became a small, thriving church.
[ Legacy congregation: Faithful but facing decline ]
Established nearly 90 years ago, First Church has a beautiful building and faithful members, but only a dozen people remain. Many programs are gone. Vision and relationships feel weaker. What remains is structure and history. First Church is discerning how best to live out its legacy.
Like Geoguessr, the goal isn’t to “win” or reach the next level. The gift comes from seeing clearly where you are — and responding faithfully to God’s call in this moment.
© 2025 Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec