Hal Donaldson and his brothers, Dave and Steve, started Convoy of Hope 20 years ago. Their first community outreach took place in Watts, California, in 1995.

“That day, thousands of honored guests gathered to receive groceries and to hear local musicians perform on a makeshift stage,” Hal said. “Tears came to my eyes that day as I watched hurting families descend on a neighborhood park — just so they could have something to eat. I stood at the entrance and welcomed guests … and listened to their stories. I was struck by the reality that these families were not homeless or unemployed. Instead they worked full-time jobs and ensured their children attended school.”

That day their eyes were opened to the plight of working poor families, he said. These are families who typically don’t have access to many social services, struggle each week to put food on the table and clothing on their children. They rarely have enough gas to get to work or soap to do the laundry. 

For 20 years now, Convoy of Hope has served these families by providing groceries, medical and dental screenings, job fairs, haircuts, shoes, clothing and more. Convoy of Hope is a faith-based organization out of Springfield, Missouri, that has provided relief for over 65 million people. Founder/CEO Hal Donaldson shares his thoughts on the future of the Church below:

What changes in society and culture do you believe will most affect the future of the church? 

Hal Donaldson: In the coming decades, many will increasingly question the value of a local congregation. To maintain credibility among nonbelievers in their community, churchgoers will have to defend their allegiance to a “religious institution” by pointing to the tangible ways in which their congregation is making the community a better place to live.

How will the Church of 2040 differ from the Church of today?  What changes will affect us the most?  

Many congregants are less inclined to be led or discipled, and more inclined to gravitate to churches where sermons are less challenging. Churches that are truly into discipleship and lay-mobilization will thrive and have a significant impact on their community and the world. Those that choose to take a path of “least resistance “ will find their congregations very transient and less effective for the kingdom.  

What are some things about today’s church that must change?   

We must be reminded that legalism is not a substitute for righteousness. And, in our authentic quest for righteousness, we must recognize that we are all sinners in need of a Savior. Our goal should be to emulate Jesus by being people of love, grace and mercy without compromising what we know to be true and just.  

Churches that are truly into discipleship and lay-mobilization will thrive and have a significant impact on their community and the world.

What are some things about today’s church that must never change?  

As followers of Jesus, we look for opportunities to befriend people who are lonely and in search of hope. Isolating ourselves from people in need is not an option. The church must pursue humility and a spirit of warmth to those living in sin, without condoning their sin.

How will strategic partnerships in ministry change the ways we “do” ministry in 2040?  

First, we have to believe we have a lot in common with brothers and sisters in Christ, regardless of their denominational tag. Churches that desire to impact their community and the world will look for ways to partner with other churches and faith-based charities to fulfill their mission to care for the poor, the suffering and the hurting.

Is there “a new kind of Pentecostal” emerging among Millennials today?  How would you describe their “newness?”  

We are seeing a wave of Pentecostals who speak in tongues but also feed. The Holy Spirit is empowering them to meet physical and spiritual needs in the name of Jesus. The gifts and fruit of the Spirit are active and evident as believers represent Jesus among the poor and suffering.

What are some things Jesus promised would be part of the Church’s future?  

Jesus promised He will build His church (Matthew 16:18), and that the Church will be one flock with one Shepherd (John 10:16).

Pictured: A guest of honor admires her new free haircut at the 1,000th Community Outreach in Las Vegas, Nevada. Picture courtesy Convoy of Hope.

This article originally appeared in Vital and has been used with permission.