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The Last Service Podcast explores the narratives of American churches that have closed, consolidated, or merged. But this isn’t a tale of despair; it’s a celebration of good endings, enduring legacies, and the courage to embrace new beginnings. American churches are closing at a pace faster than new ones are emerging, the need for thoughtful conversations around closures is more crucial than ever. By shedding light on the paths taken by these congregations, we aim to inspire and encourage ch ...
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Small Things Well with Karl Vaters, author of De-sizing the Church: How Church Growth Became a Science, Then an Obsession, and What's Next
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Karl Vaters joins The Last Service Podcast to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing small churches. With over 40 years of pastoral experience and as the author of several books on small church ministry, Karl provides valuable insights to help small congregations thrive. Key Topics: - Defining what constitutes a "small church" - The…
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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 alar…
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Thank you, I love you, I'm sorry, I forgive you - with Good Friday Collaborative
1:08:46
1:08:46
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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 unp…
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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 chu…
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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 …
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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 …
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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 unc…
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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 congre…
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In this episode, Claire Bamberg shares wisdom learned from helping many congregations find a path forward. We learn about her process to guide churches in letting go of the past and embracing a new beginning. She is the founder of Potentials Customized Coaching and Consulting. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: Churches must often die to bring about a…
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In this insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast, Matt sits down with Pastor Stephen Gray, the esteemed author of "Legacy Churches." Join us as we delve into the pages of Pastor Gray's book and explore his profound insights on the challenges and triumphs of legacy churches. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: No individual local church lasts fore…
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COMING SOON: The Last Service Podcast explores the narratives of American churches that have closed, consolidated, or merged. It's a celebration of good endings, enduring legacies, and the courage to embrace new beginnings. Join us as we delve into the lives of these churches, sharing stories that resonate with wisdom, and a commitment to ending we…
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