Multisite continues to be one of the fastest growing approaches for church expansion. This strategy is used by many denominations and independent groups, even internationally. According to my friend, Jim Tomberlin (the foremost authority on all things multisite), “There will be over 5,000 multi-site churches by the end of 2010.” Multisite efforts are typically thought of as a new campus from an existing church. But, sometimes it can be a way to effect a merger that energizes a new works capitalizing on resources already part of the church.
When we started consulting with Bethany Church in Greenland, New Hampshire (about an hour north of Boston) there was no thought of multisite. During the process of planning new facilities on their only campus, they were approached by a church that was badly dying - only 12 people, a facility and a very small mortgage. It was clear this was an opportunity to consider. The Cogun Team brought Jim in to consult with us and he uncovered the important issues including location strategy, volunteer development, staff development, teaching options, do’s & don’ts of multisite and DNA transfer requirements. Knowing the questions to ask as well as understanding the implications of the answers, led to the right multisite solution.
Multisite is a sending strategy that deepens disciples. It can often accelerate the impact of the Gospel on a community. But not every church is ready to go multisite and not every potential merger is poised for success. If you want to explore whether or not multisite is a solution for you, I invite you to contact Jim at http://multi-sitesolutions.com/. In the meantime, here the shorthand version of Jim’s 5 P’s for multisite:
Prayer to Proceed – The one thing that really matters is God’s call
Provision to Start – It takes seed money
Pastor to Lead – The most important component in going multisite
People to Follow - The strength of a multi-site launch is the core of followers who come out of the sending congregation.
Place to Meet - The ideal place for a multi-site campus is within the 15-30 minute perimeter of the sending campus.
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