Exploring the Impact of Leadership Style on Church Growth in MI

Abstract

Churches are experiencing a significant membership decline. Leadership style emerged as a possible prevailing reason for this decline. This qualitative descriptive case study explored the perceptions of church leaders regarding leadership styles (transformational, transactional, laissez-faire, and servant leadership) and how these styles impacted membership growth and decline at Century Baptist Church in Inkster, Michigan. Interviews with 10 church leaders, questionnaires, church documentation review, and analysis generated 4 significant themes. The establishment of these themes contributed to the development of a Leadership Engagement Training Program (LSEP). Pseudonyms were used to protect the identity of the church and senior pastor.