CBF believes that Thriving Congregations exhibit these Five Traits in significant ways:
Rooted Relationships
Rooted Relationships form the foundation. These communities are deeply connected: to Christ, to one another, and to their neighbors. Trust, vulnerability, and spiritual attentiveness shape their shared life. Matt 22:37-39
Compelling Clarity
Compelling Clarity gives direction. Thriving congregations know who they are, what they are called to do, and why it matters. This clarity fuels alignment, focus, and meaningful engagement in their context. Luke 4:18-19
Dynamic Collaboration
Dynamic Collaboration expands impact. Rather than operating in isolation, these congregations cultivate partnerships, within the church and beyond, to participate in God’s work more fully and creatively. Eph 4:15-16
Holy Tenacity
Holy Tenacity sustains them. In the face of challenge or decline, they persist, not through sheer willpower, but through a deep, growing faith that anchors them in God’s ongoing work. Phil 3:13-14
Faithful Agility
Faithful Agility enables adaptation. Grounded in their identity, they remain open to change, innovation, and new possibilities, trusting in the resurrecting power of God to bring life out of uncertainty. Rom 12:2
Thriving Congregations Assessment
Thriving Congregations Assessment
Offering churches metrics and language to measure and describe what thriving and effectiveness look like.
Resources
Thriving Congregations produces material resources that anyone can access to help their congregation. Here are some of our currently available resources