In this episode, we’re looking at “social enterprise,” a revolutionary concept that’s reshaping the way many churches operate. We’ll explore how this innovative approach can help churches thrive in a rapidly changing world. Discover how social enterprise can generate revenue, strengthen your ministry’s impact, all while providing a lifeline to your community.

Show Notes:

In the next 10 years, it is estimated that over 100,000 churches will close their doors for good. This statistic presents both challenges and opportunities for the church. The decline in attendance and participation, as well as changes in giving, are contributing factors to the closures. However, this moment also presents an opportunity for churches to reimagine their economics, explore new ways of being missional, and stimulate their ecclesial imagination. It is important for churches to exhaust the opportunities for ministry before making a final decision. Limitations can drive innovation and lead to impactful ministry. In this conversation, Mark Sampson and Bryant Johnson discuss the concept of social enterprise and its potential for churches. They highlight the importance of sustainability and innovative change in the church, and how Rooted Good is specifically working to address facilities and property usage. They also discuss the collaboration between Ministry Architects and Rooted Good, and the value of partnerships in creating a new economic future for congregations. The conversation explores success stories of churches implementing social enterprise models, such as building supportive housing for pregnant students and starting a laundromat. The importance of assembling a team and forming partnerships with external resources is emphasized.

Takeaways

• Over 100,000 churches are estimated to close their doors in the next 10 years, presenting challenges for the church.
• The decline in attendance, participation, and giving are contributing factors to church closures.
• This moment of crisis also presents an opportunity for churches to reimagine their economics and explore new ways of being missional.
• Limitations can drive innovation and lead to impactful ministry. Social enterprise is a movement that combines revenue generation with doing good in the world, and it offers a new economic model for churches.
• Churches need to explore new forms of revenue generation to meet the challenges of declining budgets and changing economic landscapes.
• Successful social enterprise models involve meeting real needs in the community while generating revenue, and they often utilize church buildings and land.
• Assembling a team of individuals who can get tasks accomplished and forming partnerships with external organizations are key to implementing social enterprise models in churches.
• Churches should consider the practicality of their initiatives, accurately understand their costs, and determine a fair price that works for both the church and the community they serve.
• Learn more about Mark Sampson: Rooted Good website
• Contact Bryant Johnson: bryant.johnson@ministryarchitects.com
• Connect with Brandon Collins: brandoncollins.org – brandon.collins@ministryarchitects.com
• Connect with Renee Wilson: renee.wilson@ministryarchitects.com