Called to Church Planting? Consider Adopting a Church Instead

For many church leaders (myself included!), the idea of church planting is both inspiring and deeply resonant. It’s an opportunity to establish a new community, share the love of Jesus with the lost, and build something meaningful from the ground up.

But what if God is calling you to something different? What if, instead of planting a church from scratch, God is asking you to adopt and revitalize an existing congregation? 

If church adoption isn’t on your radar yet, here’s why it might be a path worth exploring!

What is Church Adoption? 

Church adoption is the process of stepping into an established congregation—often one that’s struggling—and partnering with its members to encourage renewal and revitalization. Rather than growing a church from the ground up, church adoption is about coming alongside an existing church family and joining God in His work of restoration.

This kind of partnership often begins with relationships—connections forged through a denomination, network, or even personal friendships between church leaders. A struggling congregation may reach out for support, or a healthier church might sense a calling to step in and help.

At its heart, church adoption mirrors the gospel itself. The gospel is a message of restoration: bringing life to what was broken, healing to what was wounded, and offering hope to what seemed beyond repair. Adopting a church is a tangible expression of this truth!

A Real-Life Example of Church Adoption

Recently, my own church embraced the opportunity to participate in church adoption. A nearby congregation in our denomination was in crisis: attendance had dwindled, the pastor was battling illness, and resources were nearly depleted. 

Instead of allowing this church to close its doors, we stepped in to offer support. When the pastor decided to step away from ministry, we partnered with the remaining leaders to hire new local pastors and brought the church under the care of our elder board, extending our name and resources to them. The process wasn’t without its challenges, but the results have been nothing short of remarkable. The church has maintained its beautifully unique culture while also thriving as an integral part of our larger church family.

Why Church Adoption Matters in 2025

It’s been over two millennia since Jesus told His disciples to “go into all the world and preach this good news,” and church planting remains as vital and beautiful a calling today as it was then.

With some church leaders estimating that as many as 100,000 churches will close in the next couple of decades, the need for vibrant, life-giving faith communities has never been greater. And while church planting may be the calling for some people, some of us are also called to come alongside existing churches. Here are three primary reasons why I believe church adoption is as significant a need as church planting in 2025!

1. It Honors Existing Communities

Church adoption values the people, ministry, and history already present in a congregation and a community. This approach is both honoring and humbling, as it allows you to step into a story God has already been writing while partnering with the community to write its next chapter.

2. It’s a Stewardship Opportunity

Planting a church requires significant resources—time, finances, and people. Adoption allows you to maximize what’s already in place. Facilities, relationships, and local connections become assets to build upon rather than starting from scratch.

3. It Meets an Urgent Need

Many churches are struggling post-pandemic, with aging leadership and shrinking congregations. By stepping into these spaces, you can meet an urgent need and help revitalize communities that still have so much potential.

Practical Steps for Adopting a Church

Successfully adopting a church requires intentionality and wisdom. Here’s how to navigate the process with grace:

1. Pray for Clarity

Adoption isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Seek God’s guidance and ask questions like:

• Does this align with our church’s mission?
• Do we have the resources to support this?
• What is God showing us about this opportunity?

2. Leverage Denominational or Network Connections

If you’re part of a denomination or church network, use those relationships to identify churches that might need support. Networks often have resources, connections, and wisdom to guide you through the adoption process, helping you assess compatibility and provide accountability. For individuals outside of a formal network who feel called to church planting, consider seeking guidance from trusted pastoral leaders who can confirm your calling and partner with you via prayer and resources.

3. Build Relationships First

Before making big decisions, take the time to know the congregation you’re adopting. Attend their services, meet with leaders, and have conversations with members. Listen to their stories, honor their history, and seek to understand their unique culture and needs. These early connections lay the foundation for trust and a smooth transition.

4. Understand the Unique Challenges

Adopting a church can be complex. Existing members may have strong attachments to traditions, leadership, or the building itself. There may be deep hurt present and the need for emotional healing. Navigating these dynamics with grace and humility is key.

5. Establish Clear Leadership

Leadership clarity is essential for navigating the complexities of church adoption. Whether it’s appointing a new pastor, creating a shared elder board, or blending leadership teams from both congregations, roles and responsibilities should be clearly defined. This ensures unity and prevents confusion as you move forward.

6. Cast a Shared Vision

Adoption is not about erasing one church’s identity; it’s about coming together under a unified mission. Take time to pray and dream about what God can do through this partnership. Articulate a clear vision that highlights shared values and goals, helping both congregations feel invested in the future.

7. Communicate Often and Well

Change can be intimidating, so transparent and consistent communication is critical. Regularly update both congregations about the adoption process, celebrate milestones, and openly address concerns. Use multiple platforms—meetings, emails, newsletters, and Sunday announcements—to ensure everyone feels informed and included.

8. Invest in Discipleship

Adopting a church provides a unique opportunity to deepen discipleship in both congregations. Equip leaders through intentional training, launch small groups that foster connection and growth, and focus on spiritual development. Discipleship not only strengthens individuals but also unites the broader church body around a shared commitment to Christ.

9. Remember, It’s the Lord Who Builds the House

Adopting a church is a significant undertaking, filled with both challenges and opportunities. But at the end of the day, it’s essential to remember that the work of restoration and renewal ultimately belongs to God. Psalm 127:1 reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”

As you navigate the adoption process, keep prayer at the center. Seek God’s guidance for every decision, and trust that He will equip your team to steward this new chapter faithfully. Adoption isn’t about fixing or saving. Instead, it’s about partnering with God in His redemptive work. Let Him lead, and trust that His plans for the church are far greater than anything we could imagine.

Is God Calling You to Adopt a Church?

As you pray about planting a church, consider whether God might be leading you to adopt and revitalize an existing congregation. And if you feel called to explore this path, know that you’re stepping into a beautiful ministry of redemption. 

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