Churches aren’t just places for Sunday gatherings—they’re meant to be living, breathing hubs of hope and love in their communities. In 2025, the need for churches to step up and connect with their local areas is bigger than ever. It’s time to roll up our sleeves, being the hands and feet of Jesus where it matters most.
1. Understand Your Community’s Needs
Every neighbourhood has its own story. To serve effectively, churches need to tune in to what’s going on around them. Are families struggling with the cost of living? Are young people searching for a safe space? Or maybe the elderly in your area are feeling isolated? Start by listening—talk to local leaders, schools, or even your neighbours. The more you understand, the better you can help.
2. Build Bridges with Local Organisations
Why reinvent the wheel? There are already community groups, charities, and schools doing great work. Partnering with them can amplify your church’s impact. Whether it’s lending volunteers, providing space, or supporting their efforts, teaming up shows that churches are about collaboration, not competition.
3. Take Church Outside the Four Walls
Let’s face it—most people aren’t going to walk through your church doors on their own. So, take church to them! Run a BBQ at the local park, hand out care packs to those doing it tough, or set up a prayer tent at a community event. Being present in your local area shows people that you genuinely care.
4. Offer Practical Help
Evangelism sometimes means meeting someone’s immediate needs. Organise food hampers, offer free tutoring for kids, or run workshops for jobseekers. Simple, practical acts of kindness can open the door to deeper conversations about faith and hope.
5. Focus on Long-Term Connections
Community outreach isn’t a “one-and-done” kind of thing. Real change happens when relationships are built over time. Whether it’s mentoring young people, visiting nursing homes, or hosting regular community dinners, consistency is key. Let your church be a dependable presence that people know they can count on.
6. Trust God with the Rest
At the end of the day, it’s God who does the heart-changing work. Our job is to be faithful, available, and willing. Even if you don’t see immediate results, every small act of service plants a seed. Trust that God’s timing is perfect and that He’s working behind the scenes.
Let’s Get Moving in 2025
This year, let’s stop waiting for people to come to us and start going to them. By understanding, partnering, serving, and building relationships, churches can show what it truly means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. So, what’s your first step? The community’s waiting—let’s get out there and make a difference!
Share your stories of evangelism on our social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn), listen to The WIN WIN Evangelism Podcast, or email us at team@evangelisminaustralia.com. Praying that you can be the hands and feet of Jesus this year!
*Related Resources from Evangelism In Australia
Jon Owen: Good News Through Love and Fascination
How to Go & Heal Your Neighbourhood with Phil Smith
Why Biblical Justice and NOT Social Justice?
