Lessons from a Church Merger

As I sat down with Reverend Dr. Katie Nix and Reverend Dr. Phil Blackwell, I felt a real sense of anticipation. Here were two pastors who’d just taken their churches through one of the most challenging – and, let’s face it, risky – transitions in church life: a merger. It wasn’t just a blending of two churches that happened to be close by; it was the merging of legacies, missions, and people’s deeply held connections to “how things have always been done.” And they did this during a pandemic, no less.

Katie and Phil’s story, though, isn’t a dry recount of logistics or attendance figures. Their journey is about faith, resilience, and the courage to ask big, sometimes uncomfortable questions. These are lessons we can all take to heart, whether we’re in leadership or simply navigating our own communities through change.

Respect the Past, but Don’t Be Bound by It

One of the most powerful insights from our conversation was how intentional they were about honoring both congregations’ legacies. Katie described how they used the term "legacy churches" to emphasize that each had its unique strengths and history, and neither was meant to "absorb" the other. The merger was about coming together as equals, not a takeover.

They even held a "passing of the torch" ceremony, starting the last service at one church and walking together to the new location for a shared service. This symbolic walk represented a powerful reminder: the past is important, but the focus now is on a new journey together. In a time when many churches are facing decline, this intentional honoring of history without getting trapped by it is a lesson for us all.

Rethink Success: It’s Not Just “Butts in Seats”

As Katie and Phil discussed how they measure success, I was struck by their perspective. They acknowledged the traditional indicators – attendance, budgets – but were quick to point out these alone don’t reflect a church’s health or vitality. Instead, they ask questions like, “Did people feel spiritually connected?” and “Are we making a difference in our community?”

One of the most exciting metrics for them is seeing a growing sense of unity and mission. This shows that true success is about creating a welcoming environment where people feel they belong and where the church’s impact extends beyond Sunday mornings. These questions help them foster a culture that’s purpose-driven and less focused on survival.

Ask “What If?” and Embrace New Possibilities

This might have been my favorite takeaway from our conversation. Katie and Phil both emphasize the power of asking, “What if?” instead of “How have we always done it?” For them, this merger was an opportunity to reimagine their mission. They encourage their congregation to use their space in creative ways – like opening it up to the community or collaborating with local groups.

As Phil said, “The gift of imagination is a gift from God.” This idea of constantly exploring new ways to serve the neighborhood and the congregation struck me as essential, especially now when the traditional model of church life is shifting.

Moving Forward with Faith and Imagination

Katie, Phil, and their congregations remind us that church is more than a building or attendance numbers. It’s about creating an environment where people find meaning, build connections, and pursue ministry in fresh, impactful ways. And the only way to truly move forward is with a willingness to ask, “What if?” and the courage to answer.

Their story challenges us to let go of our comfort zones, respect our pasts without being bound by them, and pursue ministry that makes a difference right now.

How Churches Can Help Pastors Move Forward

with Matt Davis of Pastoral Transitions

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Matt Davis from the Life After Ministry Podcast on The Last Service Podcast. If you’ve ever thought about what happens when a pastor steps away from ministry—whether by choice or due to circumstances beyond their control—you’ll want to hear Matt’s story and his passion for helping others navigate similar transitions. Our conversation wasn’t just insightful; it was a profound look at how pastors face leaving ministry and how churches can show compassion and respect for the pastor’s dignity during these challenging moments.

When Matt joined me, he was open and candid about his journey. He had stepped away from pastoral ministry five years ago, navigating the complexities of transitioning out of a role he had dedicated much of his life to. The departure was due to a moral failure, yet with over two decades of experience in church ministry, he found himself asking: Who am I now, outside of this calling? What does life look like without the church at its center?

As Matt shared, leaving the church can feel like isolation. Overnight, the community that surrounded him dissipated. He went from being “Pastor Matt” to simply “Matt.” And the loss wasn’t just social—it was spiritual, financial, and emotional. The reality of no longer having the steady support, the relationships, and even the financial security that comes with a pastoral position was daunting. The question he kept asking himself was: Why do churches sometimes struggle to offer the same level of compassion and support to pastors leaving ministry as they do when welcoming them into it?

The Church’s Role in Pastoral Transitions

A critical insight Matt shared was about how the church community can often handle a pastor’s entrance beautifully but fall short when it’s time for a pastor to exit. When a new pastor arrives, there’s a celebration, a welcome ceremony, and sometimes a grand commissioning. But when a pastor leaves, especially if under difficult circumstances, it can feel cold, even clinical. Matt compared it to an HR termination rather than the grace-filled, prayerful moment it could be.

He spoke about his work with Pastoral Transitions, the ministry he founded to walk with pastors going through these challenges. Their mission? To help pastors transition out with dignity and hope. It’s a process he calls “kingdom outplacement,” a way to ensure pastors aren’t left feeling abandoned but instead are given tools, guidance, and support for whatever lies ahead. Matt emphasized that a transition, done well, actually builds trust and unity in the church.

Why These Transitions Matter

Matt’s perspective on pastoral transitions isn’t just a call for compassion; it’s a call for the church to become more Christlike in every action. Whether a pastor is moving on to a new calling or leaving ministry altogether, the way a church community handles this season speaks volumes. Every church may face this moment someday, and knowing how to respond with love and respect can be transformative.

As I listened to Matt, I was struck by the power of these “good exits.” The concept of kingdom outplacement is new to many, but Matt’s approach is simple: send people out as we would want to be sent ourselves, with hope and dignity. Whether you’re a pastor, a leader, or simply someone who cares about the health of the church, I hope you’ll consider how your community approaches these transitions.

Matt’s journey shows that every ending can be an opportunity—a chance to do something deeply meaningful and rooted in love. After hearing his story, I realized just how much churches can do to make sure pastors don’t just leave the role but move forward in their faith, career, and personal growth. It’s not just about the pastor; it’s about the testimony we’re all called to live out.

Finding Hope in Church Closures

My Conversation with Rev. Lorrin Radzik

When I first sat down with Reverend Lorrin Radzik, I knew this conversation was going to be different. We had talked a few weeks prior, but this time, we dove even deeper into one of the toughest aspects of ministry—church closures. Lorrin is someone who has walked through the experience more than once, and her story isn’t just about saying goodbye to a dying church. It’s about finding hope and purpose in the midst of endings.

What struck me most about our conversation was how Lorrin approaches something that could easily feel like failure. Pastors are taught to build up our congregations, to nurture them, to help them grow. But what happens when the opposite is true? What happens when a church’s time comes to an end, and you're the one tasked with leading it through that final chapter? That’s a tough calling, and not one many would want to take on repeatedly.

But Lorrin doesn’t shy away from it. In fact, she’s found a way to see the beauty in those final days. We talked about the idea of a “good death” for churches—the concept that just because a church is closing, doesn’t mean it didn’t fulfill its mission. Sometimes, a church has done all it was meant to do, and it’s time to let go. That’s not failure; that’s completion.

Lorrin shared how one of the churches she served had this daycare ministry that, while well-intentioned and meaningful, wasn’t enough to sustain the church itself. The congregation loved the daycare, and it served the community well, but the church was still in decline. The hard reality was that the finances, the numbers, and the energy weren’t there to keep things going. As painful as it was, she had to lead them through the realization that no amount of duct tape or effort would change that.

What I appreciated most was how Lorrin reframed the situation for the people she served. She helped them see that their church’s legacy didn’t end with the closure. The lives they touched, the ministries they supported, and even the memories they created were part of a legacy that would continue in new and different ways. One thing that stood out was when she talked about members of that closed church still meeting to this day. They’ve formed a small community, still praying and supporting each other outside the walls of a traditional church building.

We also talked about the emotional toll these closures take. It’s not just about numbers and finances; it’s about people’s lives, their histories, and their deep connections to these sacred spaces. Lorrin shared a particularly raw moment when she walked into her office one Sunday morning to find her degrees smashed on the floor and her coffee sabotaged. Someone was angry—angry that their church was closing, angry at Lorrin for being the one to guide them through it. That kind of rage can make you question your calling, but Lorrin held onto her faith and continued loving those people, even when it was hard.

She talked about how resurrection is messy and often unrecognizable, referencing how even Jesus looked different post-resurrection. Lorrin encouraged her congregations to embrace the idea that while their church may close, the resurrection of their ministry could look different, unexpected, and maybe even better than they imagined.

This conversation with Lorrin left me thinking about the broader picture of ministry. Communities are changing, attendance is shrinking, and the old ways of doing things aren’t working anymore. But maybe that’s okay. Maybe it’s time for us to stop clinging to what was and start looking for where new life is springing up. It might not look like we expect. It might mean saying goodbye to beloved buildings and traditions. But if we trust in resurrection, we know that God is still at work—even in the endings.

If you’ve ever been part of a church that’s in decline, or if you’re a pastor facing tough decisions about your congregation’s future, I hope this episode and this conversation with Lorrin will give you some comfort. Endings are hard, but they aren’t the end of the story. Resurrection is coming—it just might look different than we expect.

Thanks for reading, and as always, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media. Let’s keep this conversation going.

The Challenge of Leading Through Church Closure

Lessons from Rev. Lorrin Radzik

I recently had the privilege of speaking with Rev. Lorrin Radzik, a United Methodist pastor with a story that resonated deeply with me. As the host of The Last Service Podcast, I’ve spoken with many leaders about the struggles of declining churches, but Lorrin’s experience of leading a church through its closure hit on something that many of us in ministry can relate to: the weight of hard decisions.

Lorrin’s journey wasn’t just about managing decline—it was about faithfully guiding a congregation through the reality that their ministry, as they knew it, was coming to an end. It wasn’t what she envisioned when she entered ministry, and it’s certainly not the kind of thing they focus on in seminary. But it’s a reality that more and more pastors are facing in our current religious landscape, especially in what some might call “dying churches.”

As Lorrin shared her experience, I was struck by her transparency and courage. Here was someone who walked into a situation where the church had been struggling for years. The finances were in the red, the congregation was dwindling, and yet they still resisted the possibility of merging or closing. As Lorrin pointed out, it wasn’t just about keeping the lights on—it was about addressing the deeper, emotional ties people had to the church, the memories of baptisms, weddings, and countless Sundays together.

One of the things that stood out most to me was how Lorrin navigated the difficult balance of honoring the church’s legacy while also confronting the hard truth: they couldn’t continue the way they were. It wasn’t a matter of failure; it was about being faithful to what God was calling them to do next. And in this case, that meant closure. The courage to face that truth and guide her congregation toward a decision they ultimately agreed was the most faithful step was inspiring.

Pastors often feel the pressure to keep things going, to grow the church, to meet expectations. But Lorrin’s story reminded me that sometimes our role is not to preserve the status quo, but to shepherd our people through transitions—even painful ones. Her story is a testament to the idea that church closure doesn’t have to be seen as a defeat. Instead, it can be an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for future ministry, as her congregation did by passing on their space and resources to another.

This conversation was a reminder that leadership, especially in the church, often calls us to make difficult choices. But it also calls us to be faithful in those moments, trusting that God’s work continues—even when it looks different from what we expected.

If you haven’t listened to the episode yet, I encourage you to do so. Lorrin’s experience will challenge and inspire anyone who’s wrestled with leading a church in challenging times.

Keywords: church closure, dying churches, Rev. Lorrin Radzik, church leadership, pastoral challenges, church decline, leaving a legacy, navigating church decline, church revitalization, faith and leadership.

Church Closing as a Blessing: Lessons from Dave Meserve

As the host of The Last Service Podcast, I've had the privilege of speaking with many incredible individuals who've navigated the challenging waters of church closures. But my recent conversation with Dave Meserve stands out as particularly insightful and inspiring.

Dave's journey from traditional ministry to becoming a "pastor at large" and transitional leader is fascinating. What struck me most was his ability to approach church closures not as failures, but as opportunities for growth, healing, and new beginnings.

One of Dave's most powerful insights was his emphasis on viewing church as a relationship. When we understand that people don't just attend church, but have a deep, personal connection with it, we can approach closures with the care and intentionality they deserve. It's not just about shutting doors; it's about helping people process the end of a significant relationship in their lives.

Dave shared two compelling stories of non-denominational church closures he facilitated. In both cases, he stressed the importance of building trust, maintaining transparent communication, and creating meaningful closing ceremonies. His mantra, "Don't leave before the benediction," resonated deeply with me. There's indeed a blessing in staying until the end, in finding closure and peace in the process of letting go.

I was particularly moved by Dave's description of the closing ceremonies he organized. By inviting back former pastors and key figures from the church's history, he created a space for honoring the past while also providing a clear endpoint. These rituals seem crucial in helping congregants process their grief and prepare for new spiritual journeys.

Perhaps most importantly, Dave emphasized that churches, like all living things, have natural lifespans. Beginnings, middles, and ends are all part of God's plan. This perspective can be incredibly freeing for church leaders and members grappling with the difficult decision to close.

As I reflect on our conversation, I'm struck by the grace and wisdom Dave brings to his work. His approach turns what could be a traumatic experience into an opportunity for growth, healing, and renewed faith. It's a powerful reminder that even in endings, we can find new beginnings.

For anyone facing a church closure or major transition, I highly recommend listening to this episode. Dave's insights offer a roadmap for approaching these challenging situations with compassion, intentionality, and hope.

The Reality of Dying Churches: Insights from Gail Cafferata

As a podcast host exploring the challenges facing modern churches, I recently had the privilege of interviewing Gail Cafferata, author of "The Last Pastor" and a retired Episcopal priest who closed a church. Our conversation shed light on the often-overlooked realities of dying churches and the toll they take on pastors.

Gail's unique perspective as both a researcher and a pastor who's been through church closure herself offered invaluable insights. She surveyed over 100 pastors who have closed churches, uncovering patterns and challenges that many face in silence.

One striking revelation was the emotional impact of leading a dying church. Gail found that 65% of pastors experienced high stress levels, and many struggled with feelings of guilt, shame, and failure. This emotional toll often extends to their careers, with some pastors facing difficulties finding new positions after closure.

Gail introduced me to the concept of "differentiation" - the ability for pastors to maintain healthy boundaries between themselves and their congregations. This skill becomes crucial when leading a dying church, allowing pastors to guide the process without becoming overwhelmed by the congregation's emotions.

Perhaps most importantly, Gail emphasized that a dying church doesn't have to be a failure. She spoke about what constitutes a "good death" for a congregation, including:

1. Celebrating the church's legacy and impact

2. Providing pastoral care for members and leaders

3. Finding ways for the church's mission to continue through its members in new contexts

As we face the reality of declining church attendance and more congregations facing closure, Gail's research and experiences offer a roadmap for navigating these challenging times with grace and hope.

For those interested in diving deeper into this topic, I highly recommend checking out Gail's book, "The Last Pastor," or listening to our full conversation on The Last Service podcast.

Have you experienced or witnessed a church closure? How did it impact you or your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Rethinking Church: Lessons from Urban Sky's Innovative Ministry Model

As the host of a podcast exploring the future of the church, I've had the privilege of speaking with many insightful leaders. Recently, I sat down with Mike Sares, director of Urban Skye, and our conversation left me with fresh perspectives on ministry in today's world.

Urban Skye: A New Approach to Ministry

Urban Skye isn't your typical church organization. Instead, it acts as an umbrella for what Mike calls "freelance pastors." These are individuals called to ministries that don't fit neatly within traditional church structures. From counseling missionaries to reaching out to touring musicians, Urban Sky supports a diverse array of faith entrepreneurs.

What struck me most was Urban Skye's emphasis on entering people's worlds rather than expecting them to enter the church's. Mike shared stories of hanging out in goth clubs and attending punk concerts - not typical pastor behavior, but crucial for building authentic relationships.

Lessons for Declining Churches

As someone who often speaks with leaders of struggling churches, I was particularly interested in what declining congregations could learn from Urban Skye's model. Mike's advice was simple but profound: start doing things differently.

He emphasized the need to spend time in the culture, befriending people who would never step inside a church building. It's about relationships first, not programs or services. This approach requires humility and a willingness to decrease so that new ministries can increase.

Embracing Failure and Experimentation

One of the most refreshing aspects of our conversation was Mike's attitude toward failure. In a church culture often fixated on success and growth, Urban Skye sees failure as essential. As Mike put it, "Failure is not an option; it's essential to whatever God is doing in your hearts as a church."

This willingness to experiment and potentially fail allows for innovation and growth in ways that playing it safe never could. It's a mindset I believe more churches need to adopt.

Final Thoughts

My conversation with Mike Sares left me energized and hopeful about the future of ministry. While traditional church structures may be declining in many places, innovative models like Urban Skye show that the spirit of Christ's mission is alive and well.

As we navigate the changing landscape of faith in the 21st century, leaders like Mike remind us of the importance of authenticity, relationships, and a willingness to color outside the lines. These principles, I believe, will be crucial for the church's future vitality.

What are your thoughts on innovative ministry models like Urban Sky? I'd love to hear your perspectives in the comments below.

The Jubilee Program: An Innovative Solution for Struggling Churches

In recent years, we've seen a troubling trend of church closures across America. It's estimated that over 4,000 churches will close this year alone. But what if there was a way to preserve these churches' legacies and assets while transitioning them to new ministries? That's exactly what the Jubilee Program, created by the Southern Baptist of Texas Foundation, aims to do.

I recently interviewed Bart McDonald from the Southern Baptist of Texas Foundation about this groundbreaking initiative. The Jubilee Program offers a lifeline to struggling churches, helping them make good endings and embrace new beginnings.

What is the Jubilee Program?

Named after the biblical concept of Jubilee found in Leviticus and Deuteronomy, this program allows dying churches to transfer their property to the foundation. The foundation then renovates the property and transfers it to new ministries or congregations.

As McDonald explains, "We don't want to hold a Jubilee property in our possession any longer than it takes to get it back into the hands of the local New Testament church."

How It Works

The process typically unfolds like this:

1. A struggling church reaches out to the foundation.

2. The foundation assesses the church's financial situation and the viability of the location as a preaching point.

3. If accepted into the program, the church transfers its assets to the foundation.

4. The foundation pays off any existing debt and renovates the property.

5. A new ministry or congregation is identified to take over the property or the existing congregation begins to revitalize.

6. The new or existing church buys back the property at an affordable rate, ensuring their financial stability.

Success Stories

McDonald shared several success stories, including Maplewood Baptist Church. This predominantly white congregation had dwindled to just 25 members in a diversifying neighborhood. Through the Jubilee Program, the property was transferred to a thriving Black church plant called Creekside, which is now better positioned to minister to the changing community.

More Than Just Real Estate

What sets the Jubilee Program apart is its pastoral approach. McDonald emphasizes the importance of encouraging struggling churches: "The first thing I do with that group is I want to tell them that God is not in any way disappointed with them, that they're not failing."

This compassionate perspective, combined with sound financial principles, makes the Jubilee Program a unique and effective solution for church revitalization.

Lessons for All Churches

While the Jubilee Program is currently only available in Texas, there are lessons here for churches everywhere:

1. Don't wait too long to ask for help. Many churches approach the foundation when their resources are already severely depleted.

2. Be open to new models of ministry. Sometimes the best way to preserve a church's legacy is by passing the baton to a new congregation better suited to reach the current community.

3. Remember that church buildings are tools for ministry, not ends in themselves. The goal is always to advance God's kingdom, even if that means significant changes.

Conclusion

The Jubilee Program offers a hopeful model for addressing the crisis of church closures. By combining financial expertise with a kingdom-minded perspective, it's helping to ensure that valuable ministry assets aren't lost. As McDonald puts it, "If God's people will get together and prayerfully seek the face of God, it's been my experience that God's people will almost always do the right thing."

For struggling churches, the message is clear: there is hope, and there are options. Don't be afraid to reach out for help. Your church's greatest days of ministry impact might still be ahead – even if they look different than you imagined.

Revitalizing the Modern Church: A Journey from Decline to Renewal

In today's rapidly changing cultural landscape, traditional churches face unprecedented challenges. Many are witnessing a gradual decline in attendance and engagement, particularly in secularized cities. This was the case for a historic church in Seattle, led by Verlon Fosner, who shared his experience on the Last Service Podcast.

From Thriving to Declining: Understanding the Shift

When Verlon and his team took over a century-old church in Seattle, they initially saw growth, with attendance records being broken and multiple services offered. However, around 2004-2005, they noticed a significant downturn, despite their best efforts. The church, once vibrant, began to experience a decline that left the leadership team searching for answers.

The Role of Secularization in Church Decline

Seattle, like many other cities in the Pacific Northwest, is highly secularized, with only about 5% of the population attending church regularly. This reality led Verlon to pursue further studies in the UK, where he learned about the effects of secularization on churches. The insights gained from his time in Oxford were invaluable, helping him understand the root cause of the decline: the church was designed for a population that no longer existed in large numbers.

Embracing a New Approach: The Dinner Church Model

Faced with the reality of their situation, Verlon and his team made a bold decision to rethink their approach to church. They realized that their traditional methods were not resonating with the secularized population of Seattle. This led to the birth of the Dinner Church model, a concept inspired by the early Christian church's practice of gathering around tables to share meals and discuss the teachings of Jesus.

The shift to the Dinner Church model was not easy. It required a significant change in mindset, moving away from the "church business" to focus on the "rescue business"—reaching out to those who are lost and disconnected from faith. This approach resonated deeply with the community, bringing in people who had previously been uninterested in traditional church services.

The Impact: A Revival of Community and Faith

The results of this transformation were remarkable. Within months, the Dinner Church saw an influx of attendees from the local neighborhood, many of whom had never set foot in a traditional church. This model proved to be more than just an innovative approach; it was a return to the roots of Christian fellowship and evangelism, focusing on building relationships and sharing the message of Jesus in a way that was accessible and relevant to the modern, secularized world.

Key Takeaways for Modern Churches

Verlon's story offers valuable lessons for churches grappling with similar challenges. The key to revitalizing a declining church lies in understanding the cultural context and being willing to adapt. By returning to the basics of Christian fellowship and focusing on genuine community engagement, churches can find new ways to connect with those who have drifted away from faith.

Keywords: church decline, secularization, Dinner Church, church revitalization, modern church challenges, community engagement, Christian fellowship.

The Vital Role of Small Churches in Today’s Faith Landscape: My Conversation with Karl Vaters

As I reflect on my conversation with Karl Vaters, I can't help but think about the countless small churches around the world, often overlooked yet vital to the Christian faith. In a time when megachurches seem to dominate the narrative, Karl's insights were a powerful reminder of the importance of small congregations, especially when many pastors are struggling with the fear of leading what they perceive as a dying church.

Rethinking Church Growth

One of the most impactful moments in our discussion was when Karl talked about the misconception surrounding church growth. Like many pastors in the 1980s, Karl was swept up in the church growth movement, emphasizing that bigger was always better. The idea was that if you followed the right strategies, your church would inevitably grow in size. But after years of ministry, Karl came to a sobering realization—growth isn’t guaranteed, even when you do everything "right."

This struck a chord with me. How often have we equated a thriving church with a growing congregation, only to feel like we're failing when our numbers don't match our expectations? Karl’s story reassured me that a small church doesn't equate to a dying church. Many small churches are healthier and more spiritually vibrant than their larger counterparts.

The Strength of Small Churches

Karl shared that 90% of churches worldwide have fewer than 200 members. This statistic was eye-opening but even more powerful was Karl's point that small churches play a critical role in regions where Christianity thrives. These congregations may not have the resources or visibility of larger churches, but they possess a unique strength in their close-knit communities. The relationships in these churches are often deeper, the pastoral care more personal, and the spiritual growth more intentional.

Shifting the Focus from Size to Health

Karl’s message challenged me to rethink how we define success in ministry. Historically, the church focused on pastoral care, biblical teaching, and building genuine community rather than on growing numbers. Somewhere along the line, we lost that focus, especially in the American context. Karl advocates for a return to these roots, urging pastors to prioritize the health of their congregations over their size.

This shift in perspective is not only liberating but also necessary. It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers game, but Karl reminds us that a small, healthy church can have just as much, if not more, impact than a large one. Small churches are often where real spiritual growth happens because of their intimate and supportive environments.

Resources for Small Churches

Karl is passionate about providing resources specifically designed for small churches. He pointed out that most church resources are geared towards larger congregations, which can leave small church pastors feeling even more isolated. Karl's work is filling that gap, offering practical tools and strategies catering to small churches' unique challenges.

Conclusion

My conversation with Karl Vaters was a much-needed reminder that small churches are not dying churches. In many cases, they are the lifeblood of the global Christian community. By shifting our focus from numbers to health, we can ensure that our ministries are spiritually fulfilling and impactful, no matter the size of our congregations.

If you’re feeling the pressure of leading a "dying church," I hope Karl’s insights encourage you as much as they did me. Small churches matter, and so does your work within them. Together, we can contribute to the broader growth of the Christian Church, one small but significant step at a time.

Wise Counsel for Good Church Endings - with Erika Cole, The Church Attorney

Closing or merging a church is a complex process with legal and spiritual considerations. In a recent episode of The Last Service Podcast, Erika Cole, the "Church Attorney", shared valuable insights on how churches can navigate these transitions with wisdom, preparation, and faithfulness.

Here are some key takeaways:

1. Cultivate Self-Awareness and Evaluation

Erika emphasized the importance of regular self-assessment to recognize decline early. Honest evaluation allows more time to explore revitalization efforts or prepare for a graceful ending. Review key metrics like attendance, financial health, and leadership succession plans.

2. Gather and Review Legal Documents

Every 2-3 years, churches should locate and review their vital legal documents, such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, deeds, and IRS determination letters. Having these documents organized is crucial for following proper closure or merger procedures.

3. Seek Experienced Legal Counsel

Engaging an attorney with specific nonprofit and church law experience is invaluable during mergers or closures. Look for competence in navigating complex legal processes, character and integrity, and genuine compassion for your church's situation.

4. Allow Ample Time for Transition

Erika recommends allocating at least two years for a church merger process, which involves aligning spiritual visions, evaluating assets, rebranding, and handling complex legal requirements.

5. Embrace Transition Intentionally and Inspirationally

A "good ending" for a church is intentional, insightful, and inspirational. It involves prayerful contemplation, wise counsel, peaceful dialogue, and a recognition that the church's spiritual mission was fulfilled, even if its visible form must change.

As painful as decline can be, Erika reminds churches that these transitions are an "opportunity to glorify God" by maintaining hope, inspiration, and faithfulness to the end. With proper preparation, discernment, and legal guidance, congregations can navigate mergers or closures in a way that honors their spiritual legacy.

Tags: #churchclosure #churchmerger #churchlaw

A Church’s Death and Resurrection - A Conversation with Rev. Diane Kenaston of Good Friday Collaborative

On the latest episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt McGee is joined by Rev. Diane Kenaston, co-founder of Good Friday Collaborative. Their organization supports churches facing the sacred but painful work of concluding their ministries through closure, merger, consolidation or relocation.

Having personally led a congregation through the merger process, Diane brings a pastor's heart to helping churches find hope in the midst of grief. She shared her story of shepherding a historic St. Louis congregation to complete its existing ministry and birth something new through a merger with another church.

"This was a congregation founded in 1910 as an all-white church in a segregated neighborhood," Diane explained. "Over the decades, they wrestled with what it meant to stay and integrate as the community changed drastically around them."

Faced with dwindling attendance, finances, and exhaustion, church leaders faithfully chose to complete their existing life cycle and merge. But first, Diane guided them through an intentional discernment process and series of "legacy services" to grieve, celebrate, and mark the ending well.  

"We wanted to say thank you, I love you, I'm sorry, and I forgive you," Diane said. "It's the same things individuals need to say before death - congregations need that too before their metaphorical death and resurrection into new life."

Navigating A Closure With Grace

While every congregation's journey is unique, Diane believes most churches go through similar stages when closure becomes apparent. Drawing on her experiences and those of other "last pastors", The Good Friday Collaborative outlines five key stages:

1. The Quiet Wondering stage when uncertainty and anxiety first arise about the church's viability, though often unvoiced.

2. Naming and Normalizing that the church may need to make dramatic changes without shame or stigma. 

3. Intentional Decision-Making to discern the best path forward through a discernment process grounded in prayer.

4. Planning for Final Ministry by tending to logistical and pastoral needs like staff transitions, building sales, archives, etc.  

5. Leading Final Ministry through closing services, celebrating legacy, grieving losses, and sending the church out to new ministry.  

"A good ending allows the congregation to experience God's forgiveness, say thank you, and know the love they share will continue even if this expression doesn't," Diane said. "It looks like resurrection and new beginnings growing from this metaphorical death."

While church closure is inevitably painful, Diane urges clergy and lay leaders to avoid suppressing or rushing the process out of avoidance. Embracing the emotions and marking the ending well can prevent spiritual trauma.  

"God does not give us a spirit of timidity around death," she said. "As Christians who believe in resurrection, we should approach these organizational deaths and new births with courage."

Pastoral Care For "Last Pastors"

Diane and her Good Friday collaborators are particularly passionate about supporting ministers who become "last pastors" to their closing congregations. Research shows these clergy tend to leave parish ministry entirely due to grief, burnout, or "pushout" from judicatory leaders.

"I had a denominational official tell me he refused to celebrate 'failure' and walked out when closing churches were recognized," Diane shared. "We want to change that narrative of church closure from failure to faithfulness."

The collaborative provides coaching, online courses, and other resources to strengthen last pastors' resilience and discernment during the draining work of congregational exodus. They aim to help these ministers grieve well and hear God's call to what's next.

"Churches are going to keep closing - that's inevitable," Diane said. "But resurrection is possible too if we engage this sacred work with wisdom and care for all involved."

For churches finding themselves in those first two stages of quiet wondering and naming, Diane encourages them to explore The Good Friday Collaborative's materials as soon as possible. The further ahead congregations can start preparing for their conclusion, the more options they'll have for ending well.

"It's our calling to help ministries complete in a pastoral way, honoring their legacies while unbinding them for the new things God will birth from this transition," she said. "There is always new life ahead, even amidst this death."

A Conversation with John Muzyka of Church Realty

The American church landscape is shifting rapidly. More churches are closing than opening, and an estimated 4,000 church properties will change hands this year alone. How can congregations navigate this transition well?

I recently interviewed John Muzyka, of Church Realty, to get his seasoned perspective. Church Realty specializes in helping churches buy, sell, and assess their property needs throughout their ministry life cycles.

The Church's Life Cycle

John explains that churches go through natural life cycles, not unlike the stages couples go through. A church plant starts small, like renting space or meeting in a home. As it grows, it may need a modest "starter" facility. Continuing growth may eventually require a larger "dream home" to accommodate expanding ministries.

"A church plant does not buy their dream home, just like a young couple does not buy their dream home right after they get married," John says. "Churches are ministry-minded. They're looking for a place to do ministry."

Signs a Transition is Needed

But what are the signs a church may need to prayerfully consider transitioning to a new facility or making the heart-wrenching decision to close? A few potential red flags:

• Inability to keep up with maintenance and deferred repairs are piling up

• Being severely underutilized for the size of the facility (e.g. 70 people meeting in a 900-seat auditorium)

• The current building is keeping the congregation from fulfilling its mission and vision

"If you're not utilizing [the building] for your intended purpose, you need to have a discussion," John advises. "You need to be a good steward of the facility you have."

The Role of an Objective Real Estate Professional

For many churches, the building represents decades of cherished memories and milestones. This makes it incredibly difficult for church members to make prudent, unbiased decisions about selling or relocating.

This is where an experienced, objective real estate professional can provide invaluable guidance. John and his team's mission is to serve as a supportive expert voice to help churches evaluate their facility needs and options without being swayed by emotional attachments.

"A lot of commercial brokers just don't get it. They want to go find somebody who can find them a buyer in 30 days. That's not how this works," John says. "Churches don't make fast decisions. If I list a church building, it's probably going to take 12-18 months to sell it."

He notes that the ideal church real estate professional is someone who:

• Has expertise serving churches specifically and understanding their decision-making processes

• Is willing to do thorough due diligence work over a lengthy period instead of just chasing quick deals

• Can empathize with the profound life transition a church goes through in this process

Handling Emotional Attachments

While John stresses that "the church is not the building - the church is the people," he recognizes churches want to steward their properties for kingdom purposes if possible.

"Some churches may say, 'We're not going to sell this building to a commercial user. We'd rather it be a church,'" he says. "Okay, then you're probably not going to go buy land and build. You need to adjust your vision and finances based on that decision."

Ideally, the church can work toward an outcome where the sale of their property provides the funds to relocate or launch a new work elsewhere. This allows their legacy to continue through a new congregation.

Examples of Churches Ending Well

John gave a powerful example of a church he worked with that ended extraordinarily well under the pastor's guidance. As the church prepared to sell its building, the pastor guided members to visit other local churches over several weeks to find their next church home.

"He helped those members find a church home," John marveled. "I had never seen that before."

Another church opted to sell its building to a Hispanic congregation, despite having other higher offers. The buyer church then "exploded" with growth after moving in, which allowed the closing congregation to pass the baton in beautiful way.

While not every ending can be so storybook, John says churches that are able to honestly assess their situation, receive outside counsel, make timely decisions, and sacrificially consider their moveout plan have the best chance of ending with grace and perpetuating their legacy.

Not Inevitable, But Normal

Of course, the healthiest outcome is for churches to proactively make changes to revitalize before closing becomes the only option. John notes that while church closures are not inevitable, they are sadly normal in a world of imperfect, human leadership.

"Churches die and close for lots of reasons - moral failure, financial mismanagement, committees losing their original mission over time," he says. "But I don't think it's inevitable if churches stay on mission, navigate change well, and have healthy leadership transitions."

The key is being willing to ask the tough questions, get trusted outside counsel, make necessary adjustments, and keep the church's mission as the guiding force. While the church is not a building, our buildings should serve as tools to advance that mission.

Letting Go to Let God Lead: The Story of Ballast Point Baptist’s Merger

When churches are faced with difficulties like declining attendance or pastoral turnover, thoughts of closing or merging often come up. For Ballast Point Baptist Church in Tampa, Florida, the vision for a greater Gospel impact through merger is what ultimately led them to join with another congregation, Davis Islands Baptist Church.

In the lastest episode of The Last Service Podcast, we heard from Tom Sander, who served for over 30 years at Ballast Point and the church formed through the merger, South Tampa Fellowship. Tom shared the remarkable story of how Ballast Point made the bold decision to merge despite not being in desperate circumstances.

A Clear Calling Amidst Challenges

When Tom joined as music director in 1994, Ballast Point had an attendance between 150-300. However, over the next few years, a string of pastoral departures - including legal troubles for one pastor - led to significant instability. Still, Tom sensed a calling to remain and revitalize the ministry.

"I felt there was so much more to do there. I knew it wasn't the end of the church," Tom says. With patience and steady leadership during the turnover, he cast a vision for how merging with a larger church could breathe new life into Ballast Point's location and reach the surrounding community more effectively.

The Merger Process Just a couple miles away, Davis Islands Baptist - an extension campus of a megachurch - was bursting at the seams with over 1,500 people attending multiple services each Sunday. When Tom learned this, he boldly initiated conversations about merging the two congregations.

While a few families at Ballast Point struggled to "give up their church," most of the congregation embraced the move after seeing Tom's heart and vision. The merger allowed Davis Islands to renovate and move into Ballast Point's larger building, while Ballast Point entered a revitalized ministry as part of the newly renamed South Tampa Fellowship.

A Legacy of Letting Go

Tom acknowledged the difficulty of a smaller church giving up its identity and autonomy in a merger. However, he advises churches to make decisions like this out of vision and calling rather than desperation. Seeing new life and families come in at South Tampa Fellowship helped Ballast Point's members let go of personal preferences.

The merger's impact became even more poignant for Tom when, around his retirement after 30 years of ministry, his grandson was baptized at the renovated Ballast Point campus. Tom's willingness to let go of what was familiar allowed for new beginnings and an enduring Gospel legacy.

"I'm just grateful for God's calling...and where He led me," Tom reflects. His story exemplifies how sometimes embracing an end can preserve and multiply ministry for generations to come.

Merging Churches: A Story of Humility and New Beginnings

Pastor Ernie Wagoner, planter and leader of Sojourn Church outside Atlanta, recently came on The Last Service Podcast to share an inspirational story of his young church merging with a 170-year old congregation, Paper Mill Road Baptist Church. 

The merger was born out of both churches facing pivotal and emotional transitions. Sojourn Church had been renting space from a small Lutheran church for Sunday services. But in 2018, the Lutheran church told Sojourn they would need to move out in early 2019. Ernie describes calling his fledgling congregation of 80-90 together in early 2019 to break the difficult news. “We have nothing on the table,” he told them. At almost the same time, Paper Mill Road Baptist Church found itself at a crossroads when their pastor of 17 years resigned. 

A Mutually Beneficial Kingdom Partnership

In God-ordained timing, a mutual friend connected Ernie with Paper Mill Road's leadership team. As they began exploring a potential merger, they found more and more missional alignment and relational chemistry. Paper Mill Road Baptist Church saw Sojourn, with its young, vibrant leadership and visionary spirit as a way to carry on gospel ministry on their property for decades to come. In turn, Sojourn Church joined their contemporary church plant with the rich 174-year legacy of Paper Mill Road, connecting their congregation to something much bigger than themselves.

Key Insights on Church Mergers

In my conversation with Ernie, several key insights on church mergers emerged:

1. Posture of Humility Critical: Ernie frequently mentioned the posture of humility from both congregations as crucial to a godly, kingdom-building merger taking place, rather than one simply trying to preserve their own institution. Paper Mill Road Baptist Church was remarkably self-aware of their declining capacity and need for fresh vision and leadership. Sojourn Church approached them not looking to take over, but to continue the beautiful ministry Paper Mill had maintained for nearly two centuries.  

2. Balance Organizational Leadership with Pastoral Care: Ernie described needing to lead firmly on issues of vision, governance, facilities and other organizational aspects critical to merging two entities. However, he also emphasized going slowly, listening intently to grieving hearts unsure of change, and honoring Paper Mill Road's stories and history. His ultimate goal was that they would feel fully embraced as part of Sojourn's family.

3. Merge to Something Bigger than Ourselves: A key takeaway was how the merger connected both churches more fully to Christ's global, eternal Church. For Sojourn's young congregation, they embraced the gift of being joined to a rich legacy much bigger than their own current story. For Paper Mill Road, entrusting their property and history to Sojourn's leadership represented a passing of the baton that gives them hope. More than maintaining buildings, their passion is to see the gospel continue advancing in their community.

A Conversation with Mark Elsdon on Church Property Transition

The decline of the American Christian church does not mean anything about God, says Mark Elsdon, editor of the book "Gone For Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition." While the number of churches in the U.S. will likely be far fewer in 20 years, and over 100,000 church properties may change hands in the next decade, this is not the end. 

"I think there's a lot of hope. I think there's a lot of potential for new expressions of what it means to be the church, for new ways for God to show up in our lives and in our communities," Elsdon said in a recent conversation on The Last Service Podcast.

Elsdon, an ordained Presbyterian minister and co-founder of the organization Rooted Good, brought together diverse voices for the book "Gone For Good" to examine the massive scale of church closures and property transitions coming in the near future. 

Yet this trend is catching many denominations by surprise. Elsdon said there's likely an element of denial at play, as well as decentralized national structures that leave middle governing bodies unequipped. Many react by simply putting up a for sale sign rather than thinking strategically about their property from a theological framework.

"...what I hope the book is doing is calling us to think a little bit more forwardly and a bit more intentionally about these decisions," Elsdon said.

The book also examines the "halo effect" of churches in communities. One study found the average church contributes $4 million of value to the local economy each year through hosting voting, AA groups, scout troops, food pantries, and more. Yet as churches decline, they often lose touch with their surrounding neighborhood. 

Elsdon pointed to one powerful example of a Louisville, Kentucky, church located in an under-resourced area. Though the church building itself was falling apart, the pastor was deeply involved in ministering to people's lives. They partnered with the city and others to redevelop an entire city block into an incubator for new businesses, retail space, and more, choosing to prioritize community development over fixing their own building first.

"Rather than prioritize fixing their own building, they first said, let's make a contribution to our neighborhood here," Elsdon said. 

In the midst of the pain and grief churches will face over closures in the years ahead, Elsdon finds hope in reimagining what it means to be the gathered community of Christ in a given place. "It is much more than simply getting together for worship to sing songs and hear a sermon on Sunday," he said. He believes listening to and understanding context is key for churches to faithfully steward the property they've been entrusted with in this season.

You can find Elsdon's book "Gone For Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transitions" wherever books are sold online. Learn more about his organization Rooted Good at rootedgood.org.

A Church’s Final Act of Faith

In the small town of Elberta, Alabama, First Baptist Church had been in decline for decades. Despite having a beautiful building that could hold 200 people, attendance had dwindled to around 23 active members. As Pastor Mike Woods came on board, he performed an assessment that showed the church was nearing the point of no return.

Meanwhile, Pastor Mike kept noticing banners around town for The Point Church, a vibrant Southern Baptist mission church launched from a mother church in Pensacola. Pastor Mike reached out and soon realized that while First Baptist was dying, The Point represented new life and an opportunity to preserve the gospel witness in Elberta.

After fellowship services together, the congregations began to bond as long-lost cousins, rather than strangers. In early 2020, right before COVID-19 hit, First Baptist held a vote and decided to fully give their building and assets to The Point Church. This not only enabled gospel ministry to continue on the property for decades to come, but gave The Point a permanent home after having set up and torn down equipment each week.

The transition meant First Baptist Church would soon cease to exist. Pastor Mike had to help grieving members understand that this sacrifice enabled the light of Christ to keep shining in their town. Just as Jesus died so others could live, First Baptist was dying so The Point Church could thrive.

This Christ-like act took courage and vision on the part of First Baptist's leaders and congregation. As up to 5,000 churches close each year in America, stories like this reveal creative ways to pass the baton to new generations, even when it means the final service for a beloved spiritual home.

Navigating Church Closings With Compassion and Inspiration

The closing of a beloved church can be deeply emotional for long-time congregants. Often accompanied by feelings of grief, failure, and letting loyal members down.

However, church closures are increasingly common. And with the right guidance, these endings can be reframed as opportunities - to honor fruitful legacies, empower the community, and courageously start new chapters.

I spoke with Claire Bamberg, an expert consultant in church transitions, about how leaders can shepherd their congregations through this sensitive process with care, wisdom and inspiration for the future.

Destigmatizing Church Closures

There is often stigma around a church closing shop. After decades of baptisms, weddings and holiday services, it can feel as if “we’re failing our ancestors,” Claire explains.

In reality, church closures are rarely about shortcomings of the current congregation. More often, they reflect wider cultural shifts. The needs of surrounding communities transform. Younger generations engage differently. And for many mainstream denominations, the golden era of the 1950s will likely never return.

Yet the shame persists. “Anytime you need help, you must have done something wrong,” Claire observes. Churches feel they should heroically soldier on independently.

However, she strives to reframe closures as “an act of faith” - an opportunity to distribute resources to partners doing essential community work.

The key is legacy. “What do you want your grandchildren to say you were part of? How will our resources matter in the world?” This future-focused perspective can powerfully shift the narrative.

Knowing When to Have the Talk

With no judgement yet curiosity, leaders can start paying attention to certain indicators, like:

• Becoming more insular. Discussions revolve around solving internal problems rather than outward mission.

• Prioritizing the wishes of longtime faithful members over community needs and outreach.

• Struggling to find volunteers for key roles over extended periods.

An outside consultant can be invaluable for an objective assessment. They help surface all options in a non-threatening way, not forcing specific outcomes. Timing is also critical - acting before options narrow, but not jumping in prematurely.

Shepherding the Flock

For pastors guiding a congregation through major transition, Claire stresses, “humility, patience, listening and did I mention patience?”

Rather than championing their own vision, leaders must studiosly hear people’s grieving and attachment to beloved elements like the building, liturgy, pews where generations sat. Allowing emotional processing space before addressing logistics opens more possibilities.

Clergy also can’t get ahead of the congregation, Claire warns. “You cannot know before they do where they are going...You’ll be ostracized and resented.” Collectively discerning the best path forward may be slower, but garners more buy-in and unity.

Creative Paths Forward

Rather than a binary - stay open or close shop - there are creative middle paths. Churches Claire consulted with pursued partnerships, joint/shared ministries, multiple campuses, fully online models, and community service focus areas matched to specialized needs.

Letting go of the physical building, while painful, often liberates resources to meet more needs. One declining church sold their property, invested to sustain online worship, and gained more reach in that digital space - with added funds flowing to global missions.

Honoring the Legacy

Much care goes into planning a final closing service, if that path is chosen. This meticulously crafted ceremony strives to:

• Thank generations of members for their sacrifice and service.

• Uplift and celebrate the accomplishments, memories and gifts congregants gave to the wider community.

• Inspire people to carry values, relationships and partnerships forward into new forms of collective faith in action.

• Reassure everyone this is not an ending - rather a bold step through a threshold into fresh expressions of living tradition.

The mood is poignant yet hopeful. Former clergy return to participate. And long-time members mingle with newer participants and families to reminisce. The church leaves a powerful legacy for scattered descendants to feed future ministries and healing initiatives across the broader community.

In closing, Claire reminds leaders facing wrenching decisions, “Never place a period where God has placed a comma. There are always new beginnings.”

Legacy Churches: Embracing New Beginnings in Church Closures

I interviewed Stephen Gray, author of "Legacy Churches," to discuss the often-difficult topic of church closures and transitions. Gray brings decades of experience in church planting and consulting to shed light on how congregations can approach endings with grace, dignity, and an eye toward future impact.

The State of Churches in America

Gray notes that church closures are increasing, with an estimated 5,000-5,500 churches closing annually in the U.S. post-COVID. While this may sound disheartening, Gray emphasizes that closure doesn't equate to failure:

"Closing the doors of a building is not failing God. Things have closed that have represented Christ for millennia... It just means that we need to understand, like Christ, there is limited time that we have to do the work that God has given us."

Rethinking "Sacred Spaces"

One stumbling block for many congregations is the idea of their building as a sacred space. Gray challenges this notion:

"What makes a space sacred is God's presence with these people. Where two or three are gathered, there I am in the midst of them. A sacred space is where two or three are gathered in the name of God."

He encourages churches to see their legacy not in bricks and mortar, but in the lives touched and the ongoing kingdom work that can be supported through responsible stewardship of resources.

Planning for a Good Ending

Gray outlines several key steps for churches considering closure:

1. Honest assessment of vitality and mission fulfillment

2. Exploration of alternatives (revitalization, merger, etc.)

3. Understanding legal and financial obligations

4. Casting a vision for legacy impact

5. Planning a meaningful final service

The Final Service: A Celebration of Legacy

Rather than a somber affair, Gray advocates for final services that are true celebrations. He shares an example:

"We stopped and asked people in the congregation to share something that was valuable or important to you about what happened or how this church impacted your life spiritually. So the entire evening was all about celebrating what God had done, not the fact that we're not going to be able to walk back in the doors again."

Looking to the Future

Gray's message is ultimately one of hope and continued mission. He challenges church leaders to ask:

"What is the greatest stewardship of the resources God has given us? Is it to fight to keep the doors open at any cost and waste those resources, or is it to use the resources that God has given us in a very profound way to start something new or to give to somebody that's doing something new?"

By embracing the idea of legacy – supporting new ministries, funding church plants, or blessing other congregations – closing churches can ensure their impact continues long after their final service.

Conclusion

While church closures are never easy, Stephen Gray's insights offer a path forward that honors the past while investing in the future of God's kingdom work. By reframing closure as an opportunity for legacy, congregations can find hope and purpose in their final chapter.

Keywords: church closure, legacy churches, Stephen Gray, church transitions, final church service, sacred spaces, church resources, kingdom impact