How Churches Should Manage Community Partnerships (3 Types!) - The Church Revitalization Podcast

How should your church manage and prioritize community partnerships? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu unpack how to evaluate, categorize, and communicate about partnerships—whether they’re with local ministries, national organizations, or groups using your facility. Learn how to align partnerships with your mission and vision while avoiding “pathway creep” that dilutes your church’s focus.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you lead a large church or a small congregation, you’ll find practical steps for prioritizing partnerships that make the greatest Kingdom impact.

In this episode:
[04:36] Why categorizing partnerships as primary, secondary, or good neighbor is essential
[07:55] How to identify and invest in primary ministry partnerships
[14:01] The role and purpose of secondary ministry partnerships
[18:20] Defining “good neighbor” partnerships and when to limit promotion
[26:26] How to create a communication plan that protects your discipleship pathway

Links & Resources:
Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com
Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/308
Website: https://malphursgroup.com
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