Congregational life cycles are not straight.  At all times in the life of a church, God gives us the potential to love others, to worship meaningfully, and to grow in our discipleship.  Changes in membership, resources, and other circumstances invite us to explore whether God is leading the church in a new direction, even to dissolution.  No congregation walks this journey alone.  The Presbytery is responsible for accompanying the congregation in the sacred discernment about its future.
The resources on this page are designed to start the conversation.  If a congregation is seeking revitalization through new initiatives, the Commission on Congregational Vitality can be a point of contact.  To explore issues around property, alternative Christian ministries, mergers, or dissolution, the Presbytery Council is the place to start.   

Assessing How We’re Doing
Stages in Church Life Cycle
Signs of Decline
Marks of Vitality
Vital Congregations Immediate Toolkit
Congregational Demographic Survey Options

Options Beyond Dissolution
Future Options for Congregations
What Next?
Project Regeneration
Process for Congregation Selling Property
The Church Has Left the Building
What to Look for in a Worship Space

Merger
Merger Flow Chart
Merger Checklist
Merger Procedure

Dissolution
Milwaukee Presbytery Dissolution Policy

Worship Resources
Vacating a Church