The Last Service Podcast

Wise Counsel with Erika Cole, The Church Attorney

In this insightful episode, Matt talks with Erika Cole, known as the Church Attorney, about navigating the legal process of church closures and mergers. Erika provides a wealth of knowledge on checklist items, vital documents, legal steps, and wisdom for churches going through this transition.
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.
Keywords: church closing, church merger, nonprofit law, church attorney, church leadership, legal counsel for churches, ministry transition, ending well
Listen to this powerful discussion to gain Erika's expert guidance for churches approaching their final chapter. Her wisdom will help ensure an inspirational and God-honoring conclusion.
Key Takeaways
Cultivate a culture of self-assessment - this will help you recognize signs of decline and give you a healthy amount of time to weigh options and end well.
Find your critical legal documents and review them every two years - Use The Church Attorney's Checklist (see below)
Erika's love for the church shines throughout our conversation. Look for an attorney with Competence, Character, and Compassion—someone who has experience in non-profits and churches, not just businesses and contracts. 
Resources:
www.erikacole.com
Church Law Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/church-law/id1586340872
Masterclass: https://www.erikacole.com/thechurchattorney-masterclass
The Church Attorney's Guide to Church Mergers: https://www.erikacole.com/shop/p/the-church-attorneys-guide-to-church-mergers
Church Legal Document Checklist

Thank you, I love you, I'm sorry, I forgive you - with Good Friday Collaborative

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.
Key Topics:- The origins of The Good Friday Collaborative- Diane's personal story of leading a church through merger - Dealing with the stigma and shame around church closure- The 5 stages of church closures: Quiet Wondering, Naming & Normalizing, Intentional Decision Making, Planning for Final Ministry, Leading Final Ministry- Providing spiritual care for "last pastors" overseeing church closures- Overcoming exhaustion to achieve a good, faithful ending- Embracing death and new beginnings as part of the church's resurrection  
Key Quotes:"We need to approach discernment with open hands, listening for how God is guiding us." "A good ending is when the congregation has the chance to say thank you, I love you, I'm sorry, and I forgive you.""Dying is inevitable, so church closures are inevitable. But we believe in resurrection and new beginnings too."
This insightful episode is a must-listen for any church leader grappling with decline and facing difficult decisions about their congregation's future. Rev. Kenaston provides compassionate, theologically grounded wisdom for navigating church closures faithfully.
3 takeaways:
1. Many pastors at declining congregations are relatively young and in the first half of their careers.  Closing a church earlier in life could profoundly impact the pastor's career for decades.  Do what you can to provide spiritual aftercare for the pastor who has guided a congregation through merger or closure.  It will impact future generations of the church.
2. Good Friday Collaborative 5 Stages of Closure is an invaluable framework for the spiritual, emotional, and logistical path to ending well.  Read it and study it long before your church is in decline.
3. Rev. Kenaston's church was beautifully intentional about every aspect of their merger despite their exhaustion.  I'm sure it wasn't perfect, but they found joy during their grief.  They made decisions in keeping with where they believed God had called them until their final service.  And then they were made into something new.  This is the work of a good shepherd. 
 
Resources:
https://www.goodfridaycollaborative.com/
Church Closure in 5 Stages: https://www.goodfridaycollaborative.com/writing/church-closure-in-five-stages
Article: How to Avoid the Stained-Glass Cliff When Leading a Dying Church: https://faithandleadership.com/how-avoid-falling-the-stained-glass-cliff-when-leading-dying-church
The Last Pastor by Gail Cafferata: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Pastor-Gail-Cafferata/dp/0664264980

Bonus: The Potluck with Matt McGee and Michael Lomuscio

In this special "Potluck" episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt McGee is interviewed by his friend Michael Lucio about the origins of the podcast, the declining state of church attendance and membership, and what constitutes a good or bad church closing.
Key Topics:
Matt's background and what sparked his interest in researching closing churches
Statistics on dropping church membership and attendance rates in the United States
The possibility that more churches in America closed than opened in 2019 for the first time
The rise of the "nones" - those with no religious affiliation
Economic factors like deferred maintenance costs contributing to church closures
Examples of good vs. bad ways for a church to close down
Continuing the gospel mission vs. hoarding resources with no community impact
Resources:
Reorganized Religion by Bob Smietana
Fullstack Educator Podcast
Gone for Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition
Ryan Burge

Courageous Honesty - John Muzyka of Church Realty

In this episode, Matt interviews John Muzyca, 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.
3 takeaways for dying churches:
1. Think of your building as a tool for ministry.  Tools expire, and your building may not be the right tool for your congregation during this phase of ministry.  Keep in mind that getting people in the building doesn't necessarily mean your church is ministering to them if you don't actually have a relationship with the clients your tenant serves.
2. Consider how you can right-size your building to reduce maintenance costs and utilize a space that fits the size of your congregation.  
3. Closing may not be inevitable, but it is normal.  Churches are full of human beings who make mistakes, miss opportunities, and resist change.  The question is how we move forward.  Practice courageous honesty and ask yourselves how God is leading you to steward the resources you've been given.  Get help when you need it.
Resources:
John's Contact: info@churchrealty.com
www.churchrealty.com
Church Leaders, Are Your Decisions Missional or Emotional? - by John Muzyka
Southern Baptists of Texas Foundation - Jubilee Program Client Story: https://www.sbtexasfoundation.com/articles/imagechurch
 
Keywords: church closures, church mergers, church life cycle, church property, church real estate, selling church buildings, donating church buildings, church committees, pastoring a dying church

God Called Me Here - Ballast Point Baptist and South Tampa Fellowship

In this episode, host Matt interviews Tom Sander, a longtime music minister who helped facilitate the merger between Ballast Point Baptist Church and Davis Islands Baptist Church (an extension of Idlewild Baptist) in Tampa, Florida in the early 2000s. Tom shares the story of how Ballast Point, despite having a healthy congregation, decided a merger was needed for revitalization and greater community impact rather than waiting until desperation set in.
3 Takeaways for Dying Churches:
Let go.  Tom led Ballast Point through a merger even when it meant losing control and autonomy.  He helped others see that this was more important than their preferences. 
Steady, committed leadership may be better than having a pastor who is a dynamic speaker.  
Don't wait until your church is desperate for help. Make the best decisions for the future of your church while you have resources to offer.
Resources:
South Tampa Fellowship: https://stfchurch.com/
Idlewild Baptist Church: https://www.idlewild.org/
 

Bigger than a Brand - Paper Mill Road Baptist Church & Sojourn Church

Welcome back to another insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast! Matt sits down with Pastor Ernie Wagoner from Sojourn Church in Marietta, GA. Pastor Ernie shares the story of planting Sojourn Church and is incredibly vulnerable about their early struggles. We learn the story of their unique merger with Paper Mill Road Baptist Church, a true merger of two congregations - one struggling to find their future, the other in need of a new home.  Throughout the conversation, we hear the story that God wrote for these two churches, a story bigger than one pastor, bigger than one church, bigger than their brand, and bigger than our ideas of success.
3 Takeaways for Dying Churches:
Humility on the part of both congregations is crucial for making a merger work.
Balance leading the business aspects of merger with pastoral care.
Merging with an older church can help both congregations see the bigger picture of the eternal church.  Don't write off the decades of successful ministry in the declining church and pretend they don't matter.  Listen to their stories and honor them.
Resources:
Sojourn Church history - https://sojournonline.org/ourstory
Better Together: Making Church Mergers Work - https://www.amazon.com/Better-Together-Making-Church-Mergers/dp/1118131304

Gone for Good? - A Conversation with Mark Elsdon

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast! In this edition, your host Matt engages in a thought-provoking conversation with pastor and developer Mark Elsdon discussing his latest book, "Gone for Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition."
3 Takeaways for Dying Churches:
Before you list your property for sale - consider how the land your church owns could benefit your local community
The decline of churches in America is not a failure.  It's an opportunity to rethink the relationship between churches and communities.
When reaching the end of a church's life cycle, consider how final decisions about church property could advance the mission of the church. Don't simply consider the value when sold.
📚 About the Episode: Join us as Matt dives deep into the intricate details of the upcoming wave of church property transitions with Mark Elsdon. Discover the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as churches and their surrounding communities navigate the complex process of transitioning their properties. Mark shares his expertise, drawn from years of experience, shedding light on the theological and ethical issues that will impact communities for future generations.
🎙️ Key Topics Covered:
The economic impact of churches on their surrounding communities
Insights into the coming wave of transitions and what it means for churches and communities.
Opportunities to develop multi-use spaces in partnership with developers and municipalities.
Mark Elsdon's unique theological and moral perspective on the future of church property.
💡 Featured Guest: Mark Elsdon: Mark is cofounder of RootedGood, which supports catalytic and innovative church leaders working on property development, money and mission alignment, and social enterprise; executive director at Pres House and Pres House Apartments on the University of Wisconsin's Madison campus; principal at Threshold Sacred Development; and past president of the board of directors for Working Capital for Community Needs, an impact investing fund that provides microfinance funding to the working poor in Latin America. 
He is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church, USA, and lives in Madison, Wisconsin. 
📖 Mark's Book - "Gone for Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition": Explore the pages of Mark's latest book, where he delves into the intricacies of church property transitions. Discover practical advice, case studies, and actionable insights to navigate this crucial phase in your church's journey.
🔗 Connect with Mark Elsdon: For more information, visit Mark's website: melsdon.com. Stay updated on his latest insights, articles, and resources to empower your church community.
📌 Episode Resources:
Mark Elsdon's Book: "Gone for Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition"
Mark Elsdon's Website: melsdon.com
The Village at West Jefferson
🙏 Support the Show: If you find this episode informative, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with your network. Your support allows us to continue bringing you thought-provoking stories and conversations.
 
 

The Tie That Binds - Rehoboth Presbyterian Church

In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, listeners are taken on a poignant journey through the life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, as recounted by Rev. AJ Mealor. Having grown up in the close-knit community and later being ordained there, Rev. Mealor shares the deeply personal story of his lifelong connection with Rehoboth.
3 Takeaways for a Dying Church:
A church's legacy is created through the investment of time and resources in its children and youth. Healthy relationships between adults and youth can have an impact that outlasts the life cycle of the church.
Rehoboth Presbyterian's ending freed the remaining members to serve their new churches in more meaningful ways.
Closing a church requires us to let go of our attachments to things, spaces, traditions, etc. But we can, and should, recognize and grieve the loss.  That grief is a testament to the goodness of the church family.
The episode unfolds as Rev. Mealor vividly describes the pivotal moment in his life, five years after his ordination, when he led Communion for the final service at Rehoboth Presbyterian Church. The timing of this significant event, occurring exactly on the anniversary of his ordination, adds heaviness to the farewell.
Listeners gain insight into the church's history and the profound impact it had on Rev. Mealor's ministry. Through anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, he explores the enduring legacy of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, emphasizing the role it played in shaping his spiritual journey and pastoral calling.  As Rev. AJ Mealor shares his thoughts on the church's impact on his ministry, listeners are inspired to reflect on the broader significance of congregational relationships between the elderly and youth, and the indelible mark they leave on both individuals and communities.
In this moving episode, The Last Service Podcast captures the essence of saying goodbye to a cherished spiritual family, leaving listeners with a sense of gratitude for the memories created and the lasting influence of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church.
Resources and Links
Columbia Theological Seminary
The Emerging Church by Dan Kimball 
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Article on Rehoboth Closing
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Rehoboth Presbyterian Church's Final Service:
A Service of Witness to the Resurrection 
Celebrating the Life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church
June 1949-May 2016
May 15, 2016 3 pm
Gathering
Fellowship and Prayer
~~~Enjoy fellowship, being mindful of those who prepare privately.~~~
Prelude
Hymn Jesus Saves
Welcome Rev. Rachael Whaley Pate
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.  And also with you.
Preparing
† Call to Worship Rev. John Salley
We are gathered in one place
to call on the name of the Lord.
Come, Holy Spirit, come!
We are members of one body,
calling out in Jesus' name:
Come, Holy Spirit, come!
† Hymn The Church's One Foundation #321
Prayer of Confession Rev. Joel Tolbert
Holy God,
You see us as we are, and know our inmost thoughts.
We confess that we are unworthy of your loving care.
We forget that all life comes from you, 
and that to you all life returns.
We have not always sought or done your will.
We have not lived as your grateful children,
nor loved as Christ loved us.
We have not always been the church you called us to be.
Forgive us, God of grace.
Heal us and make us whole.
Help us to live in your light,
and walk in your ways,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Petition Lord, Have Mercy #551
~~~A time of quiet, personal confession ~~~
Assurance of Pardon
The Lord is with us!    The Lord is with us, indeed! 
Response Glory to God #582
† We Share the Peace of Christ
The peace of Christ be with you.  And also with you.
~~~You are invited to greet one another in the name of Christ. ~~~
†Sung Response       Halle, Halle, Hallelujah #591
 
Sharing
Prayer of Preparation Elder David Bowman
First Scripture Reading Genesis 26:17-22
Anthem The Greatest Commands Rehoboth Choir
Second Scripture Reading Revelation 22
Sermon                 Rev. Rachael Whaley Pate
Responding
† Hymn To God Be the Glory #634
Giving Our Tithes and Offerings                     Mrs. Joann Brown and Mr. Charles Jolley
Offertory Anthem God Is in Every Tomorrow Rehoboth Choir
† Sung Response      Doxology #609
Praise God from whom all blessings flow;  
Praise God all creatures high and low.   Alleluia!  Alleluia!
Praise God in Jesus fully known;  Creator, Word and Spirit one.
Alleluia!  Alleluia!  Alleluia!  Alleluia!  Alleluia!
† Prayer of Thanksgiving and Dedication
 
Sealing: The Lord’s Supper
Invitation to the Table Rev. AJ Mealor
Great Prayer of Thanksgiving & Lord’s Prayer 
The Lord be with you.  And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.  We lift them up to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.  It is right to give our thanks and praise.
….As your children we are bold to pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.   
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.  
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts
as we forgive our debtors.  And lead us not into temptation, 
but deliver us from evil, for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, 
and the glory, forever.  Amen.
Breaking of the Bread; Pouring of the Cup
Communion of the People
Prayer
 
Celebrating the Life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church
 
Rehoboth Proclamation Elder Buz Smith
Transfer of Symbols Elder Brad Bryant
Litany of Praise Rev. Joy Fisher
For the Church universal, of which this building has been a symbol,
we praise you, O God.
For all the saints who have met in this place to offer their prayers and praise to you,
we praise you, O God.
For your presence whenever your Word has been proclaimed and your gifts of bread and cup received,
we praise you, O God.
For those who have been claimed as your children  in the waters of baptism,
we praise you, O God.
For all who came seeking your blessing in marriage,
we praise you, O God.
For faithful stewards, who have lived for others, serving you by loving neighbors,
we praise you, O God.
For all who were gathered from this place, having lived this life in faith, who now live eternally with you,
we praise you, O God.
For the knowledge that your church and your ministry among us will continue today, tomorrow, and forever,
we praise you, O God. 
In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
by recommendation of the Session, vote of the congregation, and concurrence of the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, 
Rehoboth Presbyterian Church is now dissolved.
We praise you, O God,
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
and by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Departing to Be the Church in the World
† Hymn Blest Be the Tie that Binds #306
† Blessing
Benediction Children of Rehoboth
Postlude    
 
Worship Notes 
 
Worship Leaders
Mr. David Bowman, Ruling Elder serving under every pastor in Rehoboth's history
Mrs. Joann Brown and Mr. Charles Jolley, Charter Members, longest members in continuous service
Mr. Brad Bryant, Clerk of Session
Reverend Joy Fisher, Congregational Consultant of the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta 
Reverend AJ Mealor, ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament at Rehoboth
Reverend John Salley, ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament at Rehoboth
Mr. Buz Smith, Elder of Rehoboth, author of the Presbytery proclamation
Reverend Joel Tolbert, Pastor of Rehoboth 2005- 2012
Reverend Rachael Whaley Pate, Pastor of Rehoboth 2013- 2016
 
About the Hymns
Jesus Saves, found in the Abiding Songs Hymnal from Kittredge Chapel, sung at Founder's Day in 1950.
The Church's One Foundation, sung at the laying of the Sanctuary building cornerstone in 1956.
To God Be the Glory, sung at the retirement (April 26, 1992) and funeral (August 28, 1995) of 
Reverend Samuel Horton Christopher, Jr., pastor of Rehoboth from 1952-1992.  
Blest Be the Tie that Binds, sung at the 50th anniversary celebration on June 6, 1999.  For many years, this hymn welcomed every new member into the life of Rehoboth.  Let it now send us to join the Church in the world.
The Life and Times of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, 1939-2016
 
This church was “birthed” by the unstinting, cooperative efforts of Druid Hills Presbyterian Church, Presbytery of Greater Atlanta and Columbia Theological Seminary as an ‘outpost’ Sunday School in 1939.  Through a series of steps small and large-- including her women carrying the load during WW II-- this congregation evolved.  What began as worship under an umbrella of trees progressed through a small chapel on Pangborn Rd.; to Rehoboth Elementary School’s auditorium; and thence to today’s location on Lawrenceville Highway.  She was named after the school.   Her first service was in June 1949 and she opened her permanent doors in 1952.  Reverend Samuel Christopher Jr. pastored from 1952 to 1992.
 
After Rev. Christopher’s retirement, Rev. Don Wade served as interim and stated supply pastor from 1992 to 2002.  Rev. Ken Wilmesherr served as interim pastor from 2002 to 2005.  Rev. Joel L. Tolbert was called and installed as Pastor in 2005 and served until called to another church in 2012.  Rev. Dudley Rose and Rev. Mary Jane Cornell served as interim pastors through June 2013 when Rev. Rachael Whaley Pate was named pastor elect.  She has been our pastor since then.
 
At some point in this lifespan, Rehoboth’s increasing campus growth line crossed her declining membership line.  As has happened too many times across the nation, it was only a matter of time until this irreconcilable, unsustainable contrast brought an end to the viability of the church.
 
Let us then celebrate the unique life rhythms of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church over her lifespan:
 
Inward  focus:  only three installed pastors in 64 years; served the myriad needs of her congregation through joys, tragedies, births, weddings, deaths, support for youth and seniors,  hope for personal salvation, holy sacraments, and Christianity’s holiest events for youth through seniors.  Campus grew to five major buildings, including a modern gymnasium.
 
Outward focus: Hunger— via cooperative ‘Stephen’ program (1983-1999), served over 300,000 meals to the needy; youth made “blessing bags” of food for needy neighbors; supported Decatur Cooperative Ministries and Networks to help the homeless and the hungry .
 
Community—offered a thriving kindergarten and later a beloved preschool program; served as a magnet and nerve center for the community via the gym, meeting spaces, activities; and provided space for multiple smaller congregations’ worship services.
 
Region—Provided support for Thornwell Home for Children;  support and scholarships to Presbyterian College, both in Clinton, SC.;  supported Presbyterian Homes.
 
Nation and world—supported Presbyterian Disaster Assistance programs; supported 28 missionaries to Brazil, Congo, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Lithuania, Malawi, Nigeria, Philippines, Taiwan, Zaire and Rivers of the World.
 
As Winston Churchill said during WW II, “This is not the end, nor the beginning of the end, but it is the end of the beginning.”  Now Rehoboth Presbyterian as a congregation will reconstitute ourselves, going from a community of believers in one location to emissaries of faith to other locations, like seed sown on new, fertile soils.   We will continue to strive to “grow disciples of Jesus Christ through relationships.”
 
We give thanks for God’s grace, for our time together in faith, and for God’s precious Son.
*This Proclamation will be shared at the stated meeting of the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta on May 17, 2016.  
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Credits
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/arend/lavenderLicense code: ZIXQF4BKKOTTJFRX

I Must Decrease - Part 2: The Point Church

Introduction: Join us in this enlightening episode of The Last Service Podcast as Matt sits down with Pastor Joe McClellan of The Point Church, based in Pensacola, FL. In this exclusive interview, we dive into the extraordinary tale of how First Baptist Church in Elberta, AL, generously passed on their building to The Point Church. Get ready to uncover the untold story of collaboration, faith, and community impact.
3 Takeaways for Dying Churches:
Joe and Mike worked to create a sense of common ground between their churches.
The Point Church encouraged questions but we're very clear about their intentions and that FBE's church Closure was necessary to move forward.
Dying churches should ask for help.  Most healthy churches will respond.  By dying, and joint The Point, vibrant ministry continues in Elberta.
Show Notes:
Introduction to Pastor Joe McClellan:
Our host, Matt, opens the episode by welcoming Pastor Joe McClellan to The Last Service Podcast. Pastor Joe is the Executive Pastor of The Point Church, an influential Baptist church in Pensacola, FL.
The Handover from First Baptist Elberta:
In a gripping revelation, Pastor Joe shares the incredible journey of how First Baptist Church in Elberta, AL, chose to gift their building to The Point Church. Uncover the motivations, challenges, and heartfelt moments that led to this divine handover.
Collaboration with Pastor Mike Woods:
Discover the behind-the-scenes dynamics as Pastor Joe elaborates on his collaboration with Pastor Mike Woods throughout the process. Gain insights into the shared vision, teamwork, and spiritual guidance that played a pivotal role in this transformative journey.
The Rebirth of Elberta Church:
Pastor Joe provides updates on the current status of the reborn church in Elberta. Learn about the thriving community, the impact on congregants, and the positive transformation experienced since The Point Church took over the reins.
Taking on West Pensacola Baptist:
Delve into the additional endeavors of The Point Church as they extend their mission to West Pensacola Baptist. Uncover the challenges faced, lessons learned, and the inspiring stories that have emerged from this expansion.
Conclusion:
Matt wraps up the episode with gratitude for Pastor Joe McClellan's insights and the inspiring journey of The Point Church. Don't miss this remarkable episode full of faith, community, and the power of collaboration.
Contact Info
Joe McClellan - joemcclellan@tothepoint.church
The Point Church - https://tothepoint.church/
Elberta Church - https://elbertachurch.com/
Resources
Autopsy of a Deceased Church by Thom S. Rainer - https://www.amazon.com/Autopsy-Deceased-Church-Yours-Alive/dp/143368392X
Credits
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/arend/lavenderLicense code: ZIXQF4BKKOTTJFRX

I Must Decrease - Part 1: First Baptist Elberta

Introduction: In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, your host Matt delves into an inspiring conversation with Pastor Mike Woods, the final pastor of First Baptist Church, Elberta, Alabama. Join us as Pastor Mike unravels the remarkable story of how his congregation made a profound decision to donate their cherished building to another congregation. Discover the heartwarming journey of collaboration, unity, and shared mission as Pastor Mike worked hand-in-hand with the pastors of The Point Church.
3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: 
Every church needs a realistic self-image. FBE accomplished this through self-assessment tools.
FBE recognized what they need to do to serve their community, but also saw that they were no longer capable.
Mike and FBE made selfless decisions at the end of their church's life cycle to serve their community and the Gospel.
Key Highlights:
The Decision: Pastor Mike takes us back to the pivotal moment when the members of First Baptist Church, Elberta, Alabama, made the decision to donate their beloved church building. Learn about the profound motivations and the collective spirit that led to this selfless act of generosity.
Building Bridges: Dive into the behind-the-scenes narrative of how Pastor Mike, alongside the leadership of The Point Church, crafted a seamless transition plan. Explore the challenges they faced, the solutions they devised, and the lessons learned in fostering a true sense of unity and community.
Creating a Family of Faith: Pastor Mike shares the heartwarming details of the collaboration with The Point Church, emphasizing the creation of a family-like bond among the congregations. Discover how they overcame differences, celebrated similarities, and embarked on a shared mission to continue spreading the message of faith and love.
Lessons for Congregations Everywhere: Gain insights from Pastor Mike on the valuable lessons learned through this unique journey. Whether you're a church leader, member, or part of any community organization, this episode provides practical wisdom on fostering collaboration, unity, and a common mission.
Conclusion: Join Matt in this deeply moving episode as he explores the incredible story of First Baptist Church, Elberta, Alabama, and their journey of selfless giving, unity, and common purpose. Pastor Mike Woods' insights and experiences offer a beacon of inspiration for anyone seeking to build stronger, more connected communities. Don't miss out on this enlightening and heartwarming episode on The Last Service Podcast!
Resources
Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive by Thom S. Rainer - https://www.amazon.com/Autopsy-Deceased-Church-Yours-Alive/dp/143368392X
Credits
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/arend/lavenderLicense code: ZIXQF4BKKOTTJFRX