In this episode of Church Planters Ask, hosts Danny Parmelee and Chris Highfill dive into the critical topic of selecting the right meeting location for your church plant. This discussion is packed with practical advice and personal experiences that will be invaluable to any church planter navigating the challenges of finding the perfect venue.
Chris kicks off the conversation by sharing his journey of starting Grace River Church. He highlights the pros and cons of various locations, from elementary schools to YMCAs. He recounts how his church began in an elementary school gym, which had its limitations, including small parking areas and a lack of proper auditorium space. Despite these challenges, the built-in community relationships with families whose children attended the school were a significant advantage.
The hosts then explore the benefits and drawbacks of other common locations, such as middle schools, high schools, and YMCAs. They discuss how moving to a YMCA provided Grace River Church with better visibility and a more centralized location, contributing to the church’s growth. However, Chris also shares the less glamorous side of using such facilities, like the less-than-pleasant smells and the challenges of setting up and tearing down every week.
Danny and Chris emphasize the importance of being flexible and patient when choosing a location. They caution against signing long-term leases too quickly, as it’s essential to remain adaptable to growth and changes within the community. The conversation also touches on the potential pitfalls of renting from other churches or storefronts, including issues with space customization and possible conflicts with the hosting church.
The episode wraps up with practical advice for church planters, encouraging them to seek out various location options and consider both the logistical and spiritual implications of each. Danny and Chris also highlight the value of good signage and community visibility, offering a shoutout to their sponsor, outreach.com, which provides valuable resources to help church plants with their marketing and branding needs.
This episode is a must-listen for church planters looking to make informed decisions about their meeting locations. With real-life stories, expert insights, and a touch of humor, Danny and Chris provide a comprehensive guide to navigating one of the most critical aspects of launching a new church. Whether you’re just starting or considering a move, this episode offers the wisdom you need to make the right choice.
