Ways of Being a Multisite Congregation
Part of Congregational Life Cycles
There are many ways for congregations to partner and share resources and/or staff. Find the model that works best for your community!
- Branch and Campus (sometimes called “satellite”) models
- Yoked congregations, committed to shared staff and shared programming.
- In partnership models, an existing congregation partners with or creates a distinct covenanted community.
- Merged or Networked models seek to create “one church in multiple locations.” These sites share everything! -their staff, programming, budget, by-laws, board, and most importantly, their mission.
Comparing Multisite Motivations and Cultures
| Motivated by… | Bound by… | Hoping for… | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Branch | Helping | Shared Resources | Revitalization |
| Campus | Reaching out | Shared Staff, Program & Mission | Expanded Reach |
| Yoked | Sharing | Shared Staff & Program | Impact |
| Partner | Helping | Shared Money & Space | Innovation |
| Merger | Stronger Together | Shared Identity | Expanded Reach |
In This Section
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Branch and CampusFrom LeaderLab
An option for congregations looking to expand their mission, extend their geographical reach, or help other UU communities thrive.
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Partner ChurchesFrom LeaderLab
An option for congregations who are excited about entrepreneurial and other emerging forms of ministry but as a supporter or partner, not an innovator.
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Yoked CongregationsFrom LeaderLab
An option for congregations struggling to keep ministers because they can only offer part-time positions, or they want a team of ministers.
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Merged and Networked CongregationsFrom LeaderLab
An option for neighboring congregations who are struggling to maintain full-time staff, and/or can eliminate duplication of administrative work.
- PREVIOUS: The Theological Grounding of Multisite Ministry
- UP: Congregational Partnerships and Multisite Ministry
- NEXT: Branch and Campus
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