Alternative Ministry Models

Alternative Models for Ministry is one of the five areas of ministry that we believe will be a focal point for some congregational Shift efforts.  If you have resources you have found valuable in this area – books, articles, videos, etc. – please let us know about them so we can share with others.  Also, if you have made a Shift in this area and are willing to share your story, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your suggestions, resources, and stories resourcecenter@wcucc.org.

If you have questions about this area of Shift, contact Tisha Brown.

Here are some thought starters or possible shifts that might be pursued along the lines of alternative ministry models:

• Read “Governance and Ministry: Rethinking Board Leadership” by Dan Hotchkiss or some other book about effective governance in today’s congregations with your council and implement some of the strategies and approaches outlined there.
• Have a conversation with your Associate Conference Minister about alternate staffing models that might be more affordable for your congregation long term.
• Consider what it might look like to be a faith community without a building
• For some of our beloved congregations, closure may be the most viable way to pursue alternative ministry options. If your congregation is considering closure, check out these resources:
  • Living Legacy – Local Church Ministries of the United Church of Christ and United Church Funds offer the new Living Legacy workbook as a discernment and decision-making resource for “Legacy Congregations”—churches that conclude their ministry and seed new ministries
  • Rev. Gail Irwin’s book, “Toward the Better Country: Church Closure and Resurrection”

If you would like to share your congregation’s alternative ministry ideas, successes or resources with others, please contact us at resourcecenter@wcucc.org.