Stewardship expert Ken Sloane writes that consolidation, when led by prayer and purpose, is a faithful act of stewardship that revitalizes mission and ministry. By pruning what no longer bears fruit—whether buildings, programs, or structures—churches can refocus on what is vital. This strategic shift fosters unity, sustainability, and renewed energy for witness and community impact.
Stewardship is about wisely managing everything God has entrusted to us: people, property, finances, time, and energy. Jesus spoke often about pruning what is no longer fruitful—not to punish but to prepare for new growth. Consolidation, when entered prayerfully and strategically, can be a form of spiritual pruning. It clears space for what is vital, sustainable, and mission-driven.
Here are 10 examples of how consolidation can expand your church’s witness and vitality:
1. Shared worship spaces
Consolidate worship services into one primary location. This is especially helpful in multi-point charges or areas with several underused church buildings. It reduces overhead expenses—such as heating, electricity, and insurance—while bringing congregations together for a more vibrant worship experience. A fuller sanctuary brings renewed energy and helps guests feel they’re part of something vital.
2. Merging congregations
Instead of watching two small congregations struggle independently, a merger offers a chance for resurrection. When churches unite, they bring together their traditions, resources, and people into a single body with renewed purpose. Rather than seeing this as one church “closing,” imagine it as a new congregation being born—stronger, healthier, and ready to serve its community.
3. Ministry focus audit
Trying to do too much often means doing little well. Consolidation allows churches to assess which ministries are bearing fruit and which are draining time and energy. By narrowing the focus to just a few strategic ministries, churches can offer better leadership, clearer messaging, and deeper community impact.
4. Collaborative staffing models
Staffing costs can overwhelm small congregations. Sharing clergy staff, a youth director, a music minister, an administrator, or a custodian across two or more churches can increase professional quality while spreading out the cost. This model also encourages cooperation and breaks down silos between neighboring congregations.
5. Regional volunteer teams
Many churches struggle to fill committee roles. By building regional or shared teams for finance, trustees, worship planning, or outreach, congregations can tap into a wider talent pool. Volunteers are more likely to stay energized and committed when they’re serving in ways that match their gifts and are not overloaded.
6. Consolidated communication tools
Churches can combine efforts on newsletters, websites, and social media. This not only saves time and money but also projects a stronger, united voice to the wider community. Shared tools can help tell the collective story of ministry and mission more effectively.
7. Facility downsizing or repurposing
Buildings are sacred, but they’re also costly. Consolidation may involve closing or selling a building, leasing part of a facility, or moving into a smaller space. Freed-up funds can be redirected toward mission, while repurposed space might house nonprofits, daycares, or community services aligned with the church’s values.
8. Joint mission projects
Instead of each church hosting its own under-resourced pantry, clothing ministry, or tutoring program, consider joining forces. One robust, collaborative outreach ministry can have greater visibility, impact, and sustainability. It’s also a more powerful witness to unity and connectionalism.
9. Coordinated worship planning
Pastors and lay worship leaders can collaborate across churches to develop sermon series, music plans, and special services. This shared planning reduces duplication of effort and can lead to richer worship experiences, as teams benefit from each other’s insights and creativity.
10. Consolidated financial administration
Bookkeeping and financial reporting are essential but time-consuming. Consider recruiting a shared treasurer, using joint accounting software, or using judicatory-level support to streamline processes. Churches gain accuracy, save money, and release leaders to focus more on discipleship and mission.
Moving from scarcity to abundance
These aren’t just cost-cutting strategies—they are invitations to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance. They require courage, trust, and vision. But with God’s help, consolidation can bring new life to weary congregations. It can be a vitamin shot to your church’s mission.
A final word of hope
Consolidation is not about giving up—it’s about leaning in. Leaning into God’s call. Leaning into community. Leaning into the future. It’s about being faithful stewards of the mission we’ve been given. And sometimes, the most faithful thing we can do is let go of what no longer works so that something new can be born. Let’s not be afraid of change. Let’s see it as God’s invitation to be renewed, revived, and ready to transform the world.
This article is adapted from one that appeared originally in Equipping Disciple e-newsletter, April 2025, issued by Discipleship Ministries of the United Methodist Church. Used by permission.
Related Resources
- 6 Leadership Practices that Enhance Involvement and Collaboration by Katie Carson Phillips
- 7 Suggestions for Outsourcing Your Church’s Staffing Needs by Greg Rogers
- Using Your Building Assets by Rosario Picardo
- Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transitions featuring Mark Elsdon — Watch the Leading Ideas Talks podcast video | Listen to the podcast audio version | Read the in-depth interview
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