Hot Takes with Rev. Mike Denton

Photo Courtesy of Rev. Mike Denton

Rev. Mike Denton is the Designated Pastor for United Church of Christ, Pittsfield. Worship is at 10am on Sunday mornings, and you are always welcome! He has served on the committees and boards of the United Church of Christ in a variety of roles. He has also been part of national, regional, and community organizations with missions ranging from social service, interfaith relationships, educational support, and social justice.

1. Can you talk a little bit about the value of community organizations, either religious or secular, and the negative impact that declining memberships and activity have had on society?

Those that suggest voting is the most important responsibility or right in a democracy get it wrong. Voting is the bare minimum act you can take to make change. The real and lasting impact comes from community involvement. Community organizations, whether religious or secular, provide a multitude of benefits to both individuals and society as a whole. These organizations often serve as hubs for volunteering, philanthropy, and civic engagement, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the wider community. They offer and share with others a sense of belonging, purpose, and social support, which are crucial for mental and emotional well-being.  The social bonds they encourage reduce conflict by establishing a relational grounding for problem-solving.

The decline in memberships and activity in these organizations has several negative impacts on society. If it feels like our country is broken, it's partially because some of these organizations have broken. The loss of our organizational fabric has led to increased social isolation, decreased civic participation, and a decline in social capital. This erosion of social fabric can have far-reaching consequences, including increased crime rates, reduced economic opportunity, and a general sense of distrust and disconnection within communities. A recent study showed that, with the closure of an average church, the community loses approximately $250,000 worth of community services, which it now has to figure out how to pay for. Similar studies have suggested a similar impact from membership-based organizations closing their doors.

2. Do you have any ideas on how we might be able to reverse the trend that has led to the decline in civic, community, and religious engagement?

These organizations were so prevalent at one point that we took them for granted. The exclusive approach of some of them as well as the conflict that naturally popped up made them less appealing, too.  Reversing the trend of declining engagement will require a multi-faceted approach. Here are a few ideas:

• Promote inclusivity, diversity, and clarity: Organizations must actively welcome people from all backgrounds and create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. At the same time, they must be clear about their mission so people can clearly see if their values and goals align. There is a difference between those who are excluded based on their identity and those who self-exclude based on their values or goals.

• Focus on meaningful experiences: Offer programs and activities that address real-world issues and provide opportunities for personal growth, community impact, and connection.

• Embrace technology: Utilize digital tools to connect with members, facilitate communication, and expand outreach efforts. Many organizations, particularly churches, were so focused on word-of-mouth invitations that they didn’t use other means. Moderate and liberal churches have to improve their invitations. There’s so much fear of resembling more exclusive churches with a brow-beating approach to joining that they hesitate to welcome anyone.

• Foster intergenerational connections: Create opportunities for people of different ages to interact and learn from one another. We’ve undervalued wisdom as outdated and sentimental and exploited or patronized the energy of our youth.

• Emphasize the value of community: Highlight the benefits of belonging to a community and the positive impact it can have on individuals and society.

3. Life during the pandemic forced many of us to shift to a more digital way of connecting with one another. Are there benefits to these virtual connections, or do they further erode a sense of connection and belonging?

While virtual connections may not fully replace the richness of in-person interactions, they do offer certain benefits. They can help maintain relationships across geographical distances, provide a sense of connection for those who are homebound or isolated, and offer greater flexibility and accessibility for individuals with busy schedules. For some folks in smaller communities, this has also been an important way to find folks whose way of thinking or demographic is closer to theirs.

However, it's important to acknowledge that virtual connections can also have drawbacks. There can be a lack the depth and intimacy of face-to-face interactions, and excessive reliance on digital communication can contribute to feelings of loneliness and disconnection. The key is to strike a balance between virtual and in-person interactions, using technology and real-world connections to enhance each other.

4. While feelings of loneliness have reached epidemic proportions and many of us live near churches, clubs, and all sorts of public third spaces, what do you think could act as a catalyst to start getting folks to reach out and get connected?

Hot Plate already does this well!

• Targeted outreach programs: Organizations can actively reach out to individuals in the community who may be feeling isolated or lonely.

• Community events and activities: Hosting events that appeal to a wide range of interests can create opportunities for people to meet and connect.

• Public awareness campaigns: Raising awareness about the importance of social connection and the resources available can encourage people to seek out opportunities for engagement.

• Peer support networks: Creating spaces where people can share their experiences and connect with others who understand their struggles can be incredibly powerful.

• Reduced stigma around seeking help: Encouraging open conversations about mental health and loneliness can empower individuals to reach out for support.

• Naming the power that gathering creates: Too often, we forget the strength we have together when working around a common cause.

5. For someone who wants to become more involved in their community, what tips do you have for them to get started?

Identify your interests and values: What causes or activities are you passionate about? What is important to you?

Explore local organizations: Research community groups, clubs, or volunteer opportunities that align with your interests.

Start small: Begin with one or two activities that you can commit to and gradually increase your involvement over time.

Be open to new experiences: Step outside your comfort zone and try something new.

Connect with others: Make an effort to meet new people and build relationships within your community.

Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or community leader for guidance.

Set aside a consumer mindset: It's fine to think about what you might get from participating, but much more important to recognize what you might offer. Organizations are based not on what you pay but all of what you offer.