1. Ministry Space

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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)

9. 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.

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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