Relocation is often considered a magic bullet for revitalization. Today, we discuss why it’s not the case and what to consider then making the decision to relocate.
Today’s Listener Question from Carter:
The church I pastor needs revitalization. We are in an economically depressed area and many of our members drive in. Would it be better for us to explore relocation vs. trying to grow where we currently are?
Some highlights from today’s episode:
- Relocation in revitalization should be the exception, not the norm.
- The cost of relocation is often high and not all the costs will appear on a balance sheet.
- When a church moves locations, the DNA of the church is often altered.
- In oder to better reach your community, you need to know the demographics and psychographics of the community.
The seven points that we discuss are:
- It is usually not a good first choice
- Are there groups in the community that would use the facility more effectively?
- Know the costs of relocation
- Understand where your current members live
- The “DNA transplant” problem
- Know the details of the new location’s demographics
- Get help!
Resources mentioned in this episode include:
- Cosco & Associates
- ChurchAnswers.com/percept
- Church Answers Consulting
- Revitalize Network
- ChurchReplanters.com
- Replanter Assessment
- Find more resources at the Revitalize & Replant page at ThomRainer.com
Revitalize & Replant is sponsored by the North American Mission Board and ChurchReplanters.com. More than 10% of churches in North America are at risk of closing and the North American Mission Board is committed to reversing this trend by decreasing the death rate of existing churches while simultaneously increasing the birth rate of new churches. To learn more about what it means to become a replanting pastor or to explore resources for replanting and revitalization in your own church, visit ChurchReplanters.com.
Submit Your Question:
Do you have a question about church revitalization or replanting for us to use on the podcast? Visit the podcast page to submit your question. If we use it on the show, you’ll get a copy of Scrappy Church and Reclaiming Glory.
