Unmissable Church

by Richard Sweatman, Antony Barraclough

Modern life is a constant struggle between competing priorities, and for Christians especially so on Sundays. How can we juggle all the demands on our time and still make church a priority? Why is there sometimes such a disconnect between the Bible’s captivating vision for church and our experience of it? In Unmissable Church, Antony Barraclough and Richard Sweatman combine meticulous research, practical advice and pastoral warmth. They explore the reasons why it’s sometimes difficult to make it to church and what we can do about it. The issues of broken relationships, conflicting priorities, health concerns and more are treated with empathy and encouragement. Whether you are a leader looking to understand what’s keeping people away from church, a regular attender who wants to encourage others to gather more often, or someone who finds weekly attendance a challenge, this book will bring you greater clarity and perspective.

218 pages, Paperback

Published May 1, 2023

Reviews

[Tim Goldsmith · Rating 4 out of 5]

With a mixture of insightful thoughts from the authors and personal stories from church members, this book takes a closer look at what church is, why you need church, and why your church needs you!
Born out of one of the author's PhD works, this book takes a closer look at church attendance, the reasons why people might be sketchy in their attendance and how to address it.
I particularly enjoyed the chapters on "relationships" (when broken relationships can act as an impediment) and "mental illness", both of which are big issues. It was also helpful to read answers to some big questions, like Can my small group be my church? and can I go to two or more churches.
This would be a great book to read for church staff, church members, or anyone who struggles to find the motivation to come to church.

[Sarah Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an excellent reminder about the importance of gathering with God’s people. It drew heavily on Scripture and gave good insight into church attendance rates and trends in Australia. This book addresses ideas like whether church has to be on a Sunday and whether a small group can be church. I’d recommend this book to anyone who would like to be encouraged in the significance of the church in God’s plans, and to gain practical insight into how God wants to use you to encourage and build up His people.

[Samuel Kassing · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an encouraging read. For professed Christians church attendance matters. This is a great primer to put in someone’s hand if they have genuine questions about why a showing up on Sunday matters.

This is not a guilt trip or shame inducing book. The authors are clear that grace is the way. This one might find its way into the hands of my university students.