Many religions have struggled to find out how to increase their followers. There are recent surveys that reveal that the majority of people do not attend a church. The increase in membership allows the church more revenue, and sometimes political and social power. Some religions have forced assimilation by intimidation and fear. Others have guaranteed salvation by the acceptance of their teachings. The history of religion sometimes reveals a dark side.

In the Heaven’s Truth Religion, there are two requirements that guarantee the increase in membership. The first requirement is that we pray. This is a special prayers asking God for the salvation of all mankind. We call this the Joyous Service. With the acceptance of our prayer, God brings people to our churches to initiate their salvation.

But the first requirement is not effective unless the second requirement takes effect. What is the second requirement? The second requirement is that we must have a mind free of greed, arrogance, and self-love. What purpose will our prayer serve if we cannot ourselves convey God’s truth when God brings people to us? In summary, it is not by our power and influence that brings new members to us, but it is God who brings them to us by determining the sincerity (purity of our minds) of our prayers. In the Book of Prophecy (Ofudesaki), it concludes with:

This talk, if the sign (Joyous Service) brings upon its effect (God’s blessing of bringing people to us), know that everything proceeds in this way. 17-74