Recently, on the Church Solutions Podcast, we had the pleasure of talking with Jim Tomberlin, the well-known expert on church mergers and multi-site strategies. In this conversation, Jim shared some profound insights about why churches are merging today, the key motivations behind these mergers, and the challenges they can face.
Why Are Churches Merging?
Jim explained that there are three primary motivations for church mergers today: rebirth, revitalization, and reproduction. Many churches are struggling to keep their doors open, often finding themselves in preservation or life-support mode. For these churches, a merger can be an opportunity for rebirth, allowing them to reenergize their mission with the support of a stronger partner. Others seek revitalization—they may not be on the brink of closing but need a boost to regain their momentum.
On the other side of the spectrum, healthy and growing churches see mergers as a way to reproduce and expand their ministry impact. As Jim put it, many growing churches are running out of room and merging with another congregation provides a ready-made location to reach more people.
The Merger Process
The process of merging is complex and requires careful navigation. Jim emphasized the importance of having a clear leader in the merger, stating that successful mergers are like a dance: “one church leads and the other follows.” The conversation typically begins between pastors or church leaders, often at a leadership level, before involving the entire congregation. A crucial part of this process is evaluating whether the merger is possible, feasible, and desirable for both parties. Jim highlighted that in this evaluation, churches need to address 25 distinct issues to determine whether they are truly compatible.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Mergers
When churches come together successfully, the benefits can be tremendous. For struggling congregations, a merger can breathe new life into their facilities—children’s classrooms that have been empty for years can be filled again, and a once dwindling church can experience new vibrancy. For growing churches, it’s an opportunity to expand into new areas and reach more people, utilizing an established facility without starting from scratch.
However, there are also drawbacks, particularly for the joining church. Jim noted that they may have to give up some cherished traditions, staff members, or even their church’s name. The joining church is essentially coming under the leadership and vision of the lead church, which can be a tough transition for some members. Jim reminded us that there are many churches that would rather “die than change,” and sadly, that’s often the outcome for congregations unwilling to adapt.
Common Misconceptions
One of the most common misconceptions about church mergers is that they’re only for small, struggling churches. Jim shared a real-life example of a church with over a thousand members in California that, after their pastor stepped down, decided to explore a merger with a larger multi-site church instead of hiring a new pastor. Mergers can be just as beneficial for larger churches that need leadership or have developed a close partnership with another congregation.
Another interesting point Jim made was about cross-denominational mergers. While these can present challenges, particularly in terms of differing traditions and beliefs, they are not uncommon. When churches have enough shared values and goals, crossing denominational lines can work.
Final Thoughts
Jim concluded with some powerful insights: “Most people don’t wake up thinking about merging their church, but it can be a lifeline.” Church mergers can turn around struggling ministries, expand healthy churches, and create new life and growth. However, it’s not an easy journey—it requires sacrifice, vision, and a willingness to change.
If you’re considering a merger, Jim’s advice is to engage in prayer, start conversations at the leadership level, and consult experts who have guided churches through this process before. Mergers are about more than just survival; they’re about creating a renewed opportunity to serve communities and expand God’s kingdom.
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