Church Mergers (eBook)

Thomas G. Bandy is an internationally recognized consultant, conference speaker, and leadership coach for Christian organizations and faith-based nonprofits. Working across denominations and cultures, he coaches a range of churches. He is the president of Thriving Church Consulting and an associate and author with www.MissionInsite.com. He has been a pastor, planter, and church transformation specialist, and has provided national leadership for the United Church of Canada.Page M. Brooks is associate professor of theology and culture at New Orleans Baptist Seminary, where he specializes in theology and Islamic studies. An ordained minister, he has served in a variety of settings and denominations, including as a military chaplain and a pastor. He has planted three churches and experienced three church mergers. Currently he is the lead pastor of Canal Street Church: A Mosaic Community in the heart of New Orleans.

Chapter 2—Unexpected Visions…Chapter 4—Steps on the Journey: Four Churches Model the Merge Process Stage 1: PreparationChapter 7—Vision Team: Trusted Leadership to Discern the FutureChapter 9—Breaking Control: Surrendering Privileges Stage 2: PrioritizationChapter 11—Compatibility: Demographic Research, Lifestyle Compatibility, and Mirroring the Mission FieldChapter 13—Stress Management: Living Between Grief and Promise Stage 3: A New BeginningChapter 15—New Identity: The Symbol of a New BeginningChapter 17—Building a Core Team: Competent Leadership for Critical MomentumChapter 20—Essential Information: Basics for a Successful MergerChapter 22—Critical Mass: Essentials for Congregational Indpendence and Full Time Ministry Chapter 24—How to Steer in the Right Direction: How to Arrive at Your Destination on the Road to MissionChapter 25—Why Many Merges Fail … and Some Succeed!