Retention strategy for new members in the Old Tafo Mile 3 District of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kumasi, Ghana

Abstract

The process of making disciples is not an easy task; it is a challenging and costly venture, both in terms of finance and human resources. Notwithstanding the challenges associated with making disciples, the Old Tafo Mile 3 District of the Seventh-day Adventist church sacrifices its scarce resources to bring new members into the church through various forms of evangelism. Nevertheless, that apparent success in witnessing is marred by a significant number of the newly baptized converts leaving the church. This study examined the factors influencing membership loss and retention in the Old Tafo Mile 3 District. The study utilised a descriptive survey design to collect quantitative data. A stratified random sampling technique was used to obtain 275 baptised members from the Old Tafo Mile 3 district. A questionnaire was the main data collection instrument used in the study. Means, standard deviation, frequency, percentages, independent sample t-test, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyse the questionnaire data. Results indicate that membership loss is primarily driven by lack of nurturing environments within the church community, unresolved conflicts, doctrinal disagreements, social and cultural constraints, discrimination and feelings of isolation, and external responsibilities. The study highlighted several factors that significantly enhance membership retention: engaging worship experiences, song administration, sound doctrinal teachings, warm fellowship, strong social connections within the church community, active participation in church activities, and pastoral and elder mentorship. Also, fostering warm relationships, programs that build warm relationships, and special bible study for the newly baptized church members were identified as the most effective strategies for retaining new members. Demographic insights revealed that age influences retention, whereas gender had no statistically significant effect on membership retention. The study recommends that by prioritising nurturing warm relationships, sound doctrinal teaching, caring leadership, and active engagement, churches can foster a more inclusive and supportive church environment, thereby ensuring that new members not only join but remain committed to their spiritual journeys and the church as a whole.