The Last Service Podcast

In this special "Potluck" episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt McGee catches up with his old friend, Dr. Jim Trammell, Associate Professor of Communication at High Point University, a frequent contributor to Baptist News Global, and deacon at Emerywood Baptist Church, to discuss the evolving role of media in modern church worship. They explore how technology and media shape congregations...

Discover how the Dinner Church Collective is revitalizing the way we experience church and reach the unchurched. In this thought-provoking episode, Verlon Fosner shares his journey of transforming a dying church into a vibrant community centered around the simple act of gathering for a meal and engaging with the stories of Jesus. Learn about the sociological challenges facing modern churches, the...

Karl Vaters joins The Last Service Podcast to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing small churches. With over 40 years of pastoral experience and as the author of several books on small church ministry, Karl provides valuable insights to help small congregations thrive. Key Topics: - Defining what constitutes a "small church" - The obsession with big church models and church growt...

In this insightful episode, Matt talks with Erika Cole, known as the Church Attorney, about navigating the legal process of church closures and mergers. Erika provides a wealth of knowledge on checklist items, vital documents, legal steps, and wisdom for churches going through this transition. As churches across America continue to close at an alarming rate, having proper legal guidance is crucial...

In this episode, Matt is joined by Rev. Diane Kenaston, co-founder of The Good Friday Collaborative. They discuss how churches can approach the difficult process of closing, merging, or consolidating ministries faithfully and pastorally. Diane shares her own experience leading a church through a merger and the valuable lessons learned. She also unpacks the five stages of church closures outlined b...

In this special "Potluck" episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt McGee is interviewed by his friend Michael Lomuscio about the origins of the podcast, the declining state of church attendance and membership, and what constitutes a good or bad church closing. Key Topics: Matt's background and what sparked his interest in researching closing churches Statistics on dropping church membership...

In this episode, Matt interviews John Muzyka, a church real estate expert, about how churches can navigate the end of their life cycle well. John provides wise counsel on assessing property needs, making tough decisions with church committees, finding the right realtor, and determining if the building still serves the church's mission. 3 takeaways for dying churches: 1. Think of your building as a...

In this episode, host Matt interviews Tom Sander, a longtime music minister who helped facilitate the merger between Ballast Point Baptist Church and Davis Islands Baptist Church (an extension of Idlewild Baptist) in Tampa, Florida in the early 2000s. Tom shares the story of how Ballast Point, despite having a healthy congregation, decided a merger was needed for revitalization and greater communi...

Welcome back to another insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast! Matt sits down with Pastor Ernie Wagoner from Sojourn Church in Marietta, GA. Pastor Ernie shares the story of planting Sojourn Church and is incredibly vulnerable about their early struggles. We learn the story of their unique merger with Paper Mill Road Baptist Church, a true merger of two congregations - one struggling to f...

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast! In this edition, your host Matt engages in a thought-provoking conversation with pastor and developer Mark Elsdon discussing his latest book, "Gone for Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition." 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: Before you list your property for sale - consider how the land your church owns cou...

In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, listeners are taken on a poignant journey through the life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, as recounted by Rev. AJ Mealor. Having grown up in the close-knit community and later being ordained there, Rev. Mealor shares the deeply personal story of his lifelong connection with Rehoboth. 3 Takeaways for a Dying Church: A church's legacy is created through...

Introduction: Join us in this enlightening episode of The Last Service Podcast as Matt sits down with Pastor Joe McClellan of The Point Church, based in Pensacola, FL. In this exclusive interview, we dive into the extraordinary tale of how First Baptist Church in Elberta, AL, generously passed on their building to The Point Church. Get ready to uncover the untold story of collaboration, faith, and...

Introduction: In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, your host Matt delves into an inspiring conversation with Pastor Mike Woods, the final pastor of First Baptist Church, Elberta, Alabama. Join us as Pastor Mike unravels the remarkable story of how his congregation made a profound decision to donate their cherished building to another congregation. Discover the heartwarming journey of colla...

In this episode, Claire Bamberg shares wisdom learned from helping many congregations find a path forward. We learn about her process to guide churches in letting go of the past and embracing a new beginning. She is the founder of Potentials Customized Coaching and Consulting. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: Churches must often die to bring about a new life of ministry. The new can't begin until t...

In this insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast, Matt sits down with Pastor Stephen Gray, the esteemed author of "Legacy Churches." Join us as we delve into the pages of Pastor Gray's book and explore his profound insights on the challenges and triumphs of legacy churches. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: No individual local church lasts forever. Ending is not failing God. Existing without s...

COMING SOON: The Last Service Podcast explores the narratives of American churches that have closed, consolidated, or merged. It's a celebration of good endings, enduring legacies, and the courage to embrace new beginnings. Join us as we delve into the lives of these churches, sharing stories that resonate with wisdom, and a commitment to ending well. Every episode is a testament to the hope that...