This is the most common type of church merger. In a continuation merger, two or more churches merge to carry on much as they have in the past but with more people and money. This type of merger can be a good option for churches that are similar in size and theology. However, it can also be challenging to merge two cultures and to ensure that everyone feels like they have a place in the new church.

A restart merger is a type of church merger in which the churches involved see the merger as an opportunity for a fresh start. They let go of old habits and create a new vision based on revitalization. This type of merger can be a good option for churches that are struggling and need a new start. However, it can also be challenging to create a new vision and to implement it successfully.

In an absorption merger, a smaller declining church joins with a nearby healthy congregation. Some of the traditions of the smaller church may carry on while the larger church continues to do what's working. This type of merger can be a good option for a smaller church that is struggling to survive. However, it's important to make sure that the smaller church's members feel like they are being welcomed and valued by the larger church.

A multi-site or multi-campus merger is a type of church merger in which a church in a strategic location but finds itself struggling and stuck becomes a campus of a thriving church. The stronger church provides the vision, leadership, people, and funds to help the campus location fulfill its potential.

An anchor church is not really a merger but similar in some respects to a multi-site merger. In this case, the stronger (anchor) church provides funds, volunteers, and leadership assistance under a covenant rather than a legal joining. This type of arrangement can be a good option for a church that is struggling but wants to remain independent.

The parish model is a way for two or more churches to work together without merging. In a parish model, the churches remain separate entities, but they form a joint structure to share resources and support specific ministries. This can include sharing staff, facilities, or finances. The governance of a parish model can be informal or formal. In an informal model, the churches may simply agree to work together on a project-by-project basis. In a formal model, the churches may create a separate non-profit corporation to oversee the joint structure. When pastors or other staff are shared, the board of the joint structure typically hires and supervises them. Each church then contributes a proportionate share of the cost. This ensures that all of the churches benefit from the shared resources, without any one church bearing the full cost.

The best type of church merger for you will depend on your specific circumstances. If you are considering a church merger, it is important to talk to other churches that have merged and to get professional advice. With careful planning and execution, a church merger can be a successful way to revitalize your congregation and reach more people for Christ.