When I came to Calvary Baptist Church of Fayetteville seven and a half years ago, I quickly learned that this was a church that wanted to share with others what God had provided. They were allowing a local community ministry called Potter’s House to utilize our Family Life Center for Wet Cement (a preschool/mother’s day out program) and Academy (an afterschool tutoring program). Our ministry assistant handled most of the contacts with their leadership, but after her departure, I stepped in to facilitate communication and leadership from the church staff. During my first years at Calvary, we also started helping a year-round Camp War Eagle program called Ozone, which is a program for those attending Camp War Eagle in the summer months to stay connected throughout the year.
We get several requests for these types of activities and have a large gym/education space that many would like to use. During my time here, we have even had a Classical Conversations school use our campus for a year. That one did not go as smoothly so we had to end their invitation. Not every partnership is going to be a home run, but it is worth the time and effort to share your God-given resources with the people of your community. If your church is considering allowing others to use your facilities, it is important to have some things locked in as you step into a partnership relationship. We are not experts, but perhaps these things will help you as you consider the requests that come your way:
• What does your church constitution say about the subject? If the request goes against the outlined rules of order for the church, it is important to stop right there. Your church constitution was established for a reason. If it needs to be adjusted, then that is something to consider, but as a general rule, those guidelines were prayerfully considered and outlined.
• Does the organization share your vision for ministry? Both Potter’s House and Camp War Eagle are designed to help local families as they invest in their children. We are big fans of both groups. Is every piece of their doctrine the same as our church? No, but we agree on the big stuff. While we may not have a huge family, children’s ministry or student ministry at Calvary, our donation of meeting space for these groups allows us to regularly give to our community. That is a good thing.
• Do you have a point person who can serve as a liaison between the group and the church? If you want to find success in this type of relationship, you need to have someone who can watch over this partnership. At Calvary, that is me. Is it a headache at times? Yes, but I wouldn’t trade it. We have the space and resources, and it is important for us to be good stewards of God’s provision. This person needs to be willing to communicate with both groups (the church and ministry partner) equally. This type of communication can stifle some of the tension that can arise.
• Be clear about what they are responsible for. We don’t charge the ministries that meet on our campus. However, they have agreed to make sure that the building they use is clean. Our janitorial situation changed in the past few years and our partners were more than willing to help out in this area. If you are going to ask them to reimburse you for utilities through a donation or other financial responsibilities, make sure that it is clear before things start.
Sharing space with another group can be a challenge, but a rewarding one. Partner ministries can help you reach out in ways you may not be equipped to do by yourself. I know our partnership with Potter’s House and Camp War Eagle hits its high point each fall as we host a Fall Fun Fest together. Prayerfully consider how God might lead your church to partner with others outside of your congregation.
