Overview

Why do so many people stay away from church, and what can believers do about it? Millions of people have distanced themselves from church or walked away from faith altogether. In Bridges, Not Barriers, Derrick Kitayiga explores the underlying reasons and offers a hopeful, practical way forward. Drawing on personal experience, Scripture, current research, and honest conversations, Kitayiga examines how churches-often with the best intentions-can unintentionally create obstacles that leave people feeling unseen, unwelcome, or misunderstood. Rather than assigning blame, he invites readers into a thoughtful process of self-examination and renewal. The book is organized into three sections: Understanding the Barriers, The Wounds That Drive People Away, and Building Bridges That Last. Each section combines insight with practical application, guiding readers to recognize hidden barriers, respond with empathy, and foster genuine connection rooted in Christ's love. Bridges, Not Barriers includes reflective questions and actionable guidance designed to help individuals and churches rebuild trust, extend authentic hospitality, and refocus on welcoming people to Jesus, not merely into a building. This book will appeal to believers seeking to understand why friends or family resist church, church leaders concerned about disengagement, and thoughtful readers who remain curious about Jesus despite past hurt. Compassionate, honest, and constructive, it offers a timely invitation to stop guarding the gates and start building bridges that lead to lasting faith and belonging.

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Author Information

Derrick Kitayiga is an emerging cybersecurity expert currently pursuing a bachelor of science in cybersecurity at California State University, San Marcos. As a California Department of Public Health information technology associate, he helps protect and enhance critical systems and contributes to efforts that serve and safeguard communities across California.A natural storyteller, Derrick weaves together experiences, lessons, and reflections from both technology and the human journey, offering a perspective shaped by observation, empathy, and lived experience. Guided by his Christian faith, he approaches life and work with integrity and a deep concern for how people feel welcomed, valued, and connected. His own experiences within faith communities give him a unique understanding of what draws people in and what unintentionally pushes them away.Whether writing about belonging, welcome, or the barriers that keep people from church, Derrick speaks with compassion and clarity, inviting leaders and members alike to see their communities through fresh eyes. He also plays soccer to cultivate discipline, resilience, and teamwork-qualities he consistently demonstrates.Committed to pursuing the ""good side"" of cybersecurity and the good of the church, Derrick brings a thoughtful, faith-centered lens to the challenges of connection and retention, helping churches create environments where people can grow and remain rooted.

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