Amalgamations and Clusters

Many congregations are looking seriously at what joining together for ministry means. They are learning from the experience of other congregations and paying attention to the creative Spirit.

Each project is different. There is no one, right way. However, at Potentials we have learned the importance of focussing on vision in order to discover direction and energy to lead the new church into the future.

Learn more about our approach to amalgamations and clusters

Amalgamations
In a true amalgamation two or more congregations choose to create a new church. The new church is built out of a vision and mission for ministry made possible by combined resources and a willingness to open and renovate program, buildings, resource allocation and governance. The intentionality of creating a new church provides energy and a framework for renewal and growth. As one long time member said, "It's not worth our pain and effort if we don't build a new church that will grow."

Clustering
Clustering is when a number of congregations covenant together to use their resources for ministry to achieve goals which they could not reach on their own. The congregations maintain their own identities. In order for the cluster to be successful and lasting, it needs to be supported by resources and structure, not just good intentions.

Our Approach
Amalgamations and clusters must be founded on a renewed vision of the mission and ministry of the church. Potentials uses vision planning processes to help congregations decide if amalgamation or clustering will bring the renewal they seek. Once the decision is made, Potentials helps the leadership to build the structures and relationships and to take the decisions which will lead them into the future.

Publications
Ask for our publication "Amalgamations & Mergers - Last Gasp or New Ministry?"