Should I Merge My Congregation With Another?

The idea of church mergers can evoke various images, from corporate takeovers to the uniting of different congregations into one community. However, regardless of the mental image, the reality is that merging churches is a pertinent issue in today’s religious landscape. The blending of a congregationally strong Church with an operationally strong Church is the example of an ideal merger.

In light of ongoing economic challenges, Congressional discussions on limiting tax deductions for charitable donations, and a stagnant or slowly increasing rate of charitable contributions, some churches are struggling to cover their operational costs and maintain their existence. Consequently, many churches are exploring the possibility of merging with another church, acquiring one, or dissolving and donating their assets to another church (collectively referred to as “transactions”).

While such transactions have been common in the business world, they’re now gaining traction in the nonprofit sector. There is increased interest in mergers and acquisitions among nonprofit leaders as a strategy to navigate economic instability. This trend mirrors groundwork laid by for-profit businesses. Mergers of churches share many commonalities with business mergers, but it is important to have support form a team of experts to navigate the potential pitfalls unique to the church environment.

The purpose of a merger is to create a stronger Church family that is healthier and more robust than its separate parts. The Middlebrook Group has successfully guided many churches through the merger process. Our firm has also assisted churches with other options when a merger may not be the perfect fit. We can craft a plan that is tailored to the needs of your Church.

For where two or three are gathered in my name,
there am I among them.
Matthew 18:20, ESV