Disbanding Resources

When is it Time?

Like all living things, congregations experience a life cycle, with a birth, a middle and an end. These changes may happen slowly over centuries or much faster. Sometimes it can be difficult to identify the reasons why a congregation may no longer be viable, but often it is due to changes in the surrounding area, such as shifting demographics, social trends, escalating maintenance costs, fewer volunteers and dwindling finances. The decision to disband is often difficult and emotional. It is important to remember that the work of closing well, is a special type of ministry. Those who find themselves carrying out this work are called to oversee the faithful “scattering of seeds” which will be the ongoing legacy of their community of faith. This is a special and very important aspect of congregational ministry.

Download the resource, ‘Steps for Closing Well‘.