Just Hanging On

Drive through any small town and you'll find a handful of church buildings. Some are in good repair, some are closed, and many are just hanging on.

Often the ones that look good and are well used are those that are more Evangelical in their views. They are building gymnasiums and educational wings while the others are struggling to keep the doors open.

Here's a radical thought. Bring together those congregations that "feel" most alike in the small town. Chances are, everyone either already knows each other or is probably related. Instead of pouring tens of thousands of dollars times three or four in to three or four different buildings, decide on one and maintain that one well. Let the ELCA, the Presbyterians, and the United Church of Christ share the building and the expense. Think of the money that could then be used for the real mission of the church, not maintaining a building. And, maybe, just maybe, they could even worship together once in a while.