Ministry Space

From the Experts Don’t rent more space then you can afford 1,200 sq. ft. is a good start Cheaper isn’t always better Location over cost Sharing space is a last resort We’re jealous! You’re growing – We’re not! The answer is NO! Don’t build-out temporary space The cost isn’t worth the final result Flex space is always more valuable Delineate space with banners, wall hangings, curtains

From the Experts Be Creative – Schools, Hotels, Funeral Homes, Movie Theaters, Civic Centers, Social Halls, Private Schools, Clubhouses, Homes… Ask EVERYONE – and you shall receive! Suitability – Availability - Cost Silence isn’t always “golden” Learn from the children (multi-tasking) Learning centers & carpet squares are better than chairs Invest in people – over space

From the Experts Hallways from heaven – use what you have to do what you need to do Small spaces have large potential Move when you outgrow the space You ALWAYS have options Keep it simple – set-up and take-down get old real fast! (Portablechurch.com) It’s called “temporary” for a good reason

From the Experts Temporary Site MUST be in the service area – or VERY CONVENIENT Locate at the “neck of the balloon” “Reputation/Image” of Temporary Site must be positive in the community Get to know your neighbors – be a good neighbor

From the Experts Visual crowding “feels” more crowded than physical crowding Clutter is bad (keep the altar area “open”) 75-80% is full Add more space Add a second service (critical mass) You won’t “save” money by building sooner

From the Experts Work hard to outgrow your space Keep looking for another alternative One move is positive Three moves can be deadly Pioneers build mission churches Homesteaders come later Not adequate parking – SURPLUS parking

From the Experts LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION - Visibility pays off no matter what the building looks like Get estimates on remodeling the space to meet both present and future needs -– BEFORE you sign the lease Negotiate into the lease as much building and property maintenance as you can afford Negotiate to insure as few restrictions by the landlord as possible Make sure that the heating and A/C is sufficient for a large gathering of people (sound issues)

From the Experts Lease space that will allow for numerical expansion in worship attendance, Christian education and fellowship actives.  If you expect to grow, you will grow. The parking should be paved and lined and have sufficient spaces to allow room for guests – A full parking lot means that there is no room for new people Don’t let a leased facility bankrupt the congregation - Live within your means If you outgrow the space, be willing to add a second service - if you need to add a third service, it might be time to move Leased space is temporary and a tool to help grow the church. When it is time to move, risk making the move.

Rental Agreements Everything is Negotiable Be honest in what you can afford Escalating rental payments might help you afford more space Long term lease vs. short term and flexible Trading Spaces: build-outs make a good ministry project The EOCM Unit is your friend The 1st Month’s Rent is on us! Lease in the name of the MD - designated as a developer of the ELCA Insurance is under the blanket Insurance policy of the ELCA

Rental Agreements Negotiate the contract – don’t fall in love with your landlord Get everything in writing Specify the cost Designate space to be used (worship, education, office, storage) Length of time – 24 months basic time Opportunity for renegotiation & renewal

Rental Agreements Once a lease has been negotiated… Before you sign on the dotted line - send a copy to the EOCM Unit for review and approval Keep the Original Lease Send a copy to the EOCM Unit