In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt interviews Dr. Stanley Granberg, founder of Heritage 21, an organization dedicated to helping declining churches make critical decisions about their future. Dr. Granberg shares his extensive experience in church planting, missions, and organizational leadership, offering valuable insights into the challenges facing aging congregations.

As churches across America continue to close at an alarming rate, having proper legal guidance is crucial for a good ending. Erika Cole, the renowned Church Attorney, joins the podcast to walk through the important steps churches need to take when facing a closure or merger. From collecting vital documents to understanding decision-making processes, asset distribution, and finding the right legal counsel - Erika covers it all with competence, character and compassion. This is an invaluable episode for any church leader contemplating the future of their congregation.

In this episode, Matt is joined by Rev. Diane Kenaston, co-founder of The Good Friday Collaborative. They discuss how churches can approach the difficult process of closing, merging, or consolidating ministries faithfully and pastorally. Diane shares her own experience leading a church through a merger and the valuable lessons learned. She also unpacks the five stages of church closures outlined by The Good Friday Collaborative as a framework for congregations.

In this episode, Matt interviews John Muzyka, a church real estate expert, about how churches can navigate the end of their life cycle well. John provides wise counsel on assessing property needs, making tough decisions with church committees, finding the right realtor, and determining if the building still serves the church's mission.

In this episode, Claire Bamberg shares wisdom learned from helping many congregations find a path forward. We learn about her process to guide churches in letting go of the past and embracing a new beginning. She is the founder of Potentials Customized Coaching and Consulting.