The Last Service Podcast

Bonus: The Potluck with Matt McGee and Michael Lomuscio

In this special "Potluck" episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt McGee is interviewed by his friend Michael Lucio about the origins of the podcast, the declining state of church attendance and membership, and what constitutes a good or bad church closing. Key Topics: Matt's background and what sparked his interest in researching closing churches Statistics on dropping church membership and attendance rates in the United States The possibility that more churches in America closed ...

Courageous Honesty - John Muzyka of Church Realty

In this episode, Matt interviews John Muzyca, a church real estate expert, about how churches can navigate the end of their life cycle well. John provides wise counsel on assessing property needs, making tough decisions with church committees, finding the right realtor, and determining if the building still serves the church's mission. 3 takeaways for dying churches: 1. Think of your building as a tool for ministry.  Tools expire, and your building may not be the right tool for your congre...

God Called Me Here - Ballast Point Baptist and South Tampa Fellowship

In this episode, host Matt interviews Tom Sander, a longtime music minister who helped facilitate the merger between Ballast Point Baptist Church and Davis Islands Baptist Church (an extension of Idlewild Baptist) in Tampa, Florida in the early 2000s. Tom shares the story of how Ballast Point, despite having a healthy congregation, decided a merger was needed for revitalization and greater community impact rather than waiting until desperation set in. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: Let go...

Bigger than a Brand - Paper Mill Road Baptist Church & Sojourn Church

Welcome back to another insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast! Matt sits down with Pastor Ernie Wagoner from Sojourn Church in Marietta, GA. Pastor Ernie shares the story of planting Sojourn Church and is incredibly vulnerable about their early struggles. We learn the story of their unique merger with Paper Mill Road Baptist Church, a true merger of two congregations - one struggling to find their future, the other in need of a new home.  Throughout the conversation, we hear the sto...

Gone for Good? - A Conversation with Mark Elsdon

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast! In this edition, your host Matt engages in a thought-provoking conversation with pastor and developer Mark Elsdon discussing his latest book, "Gone for Good? Negotiating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition." 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: Before you list your property for sale - consider how the land your church owns could benefit your local community The decline of churches in America is not a failure.  It's an...

The Tie That Binds - Rehoboth Presbyterian Church

In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, listeners are taken on a poignant journey through the life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, as recounted by Rev. AJ Mealor. Having grown up in the close-knit community and later being ordained there, Rev. Mealor shares the deeply personal story of his lifelong connection with Rehoboth. 3 Takeaways for a Dying Church: A church's legacy is created through the investment of time and resources in its children and youth. Healthy relationships between...

I Must Decrease - Part 2: The Point Church

Introduction: Join us in this enlightening episode of The Last Service Podcast as Matt sits down with Pastor Joe McClellan of The Point Church, based in Pensacola, FL. In this exclusive interview, we dive into the extraordinary tale of how First Baptist Church in Elberta, AL, generously passed on their building to The Point Church. Get ready to uncover the untold story of collaboration, faith, and community impact. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: Joe and Mike worked to create a sense of co...

I Must Decrease - Part 1: First Baptist Elberta

Introduction: In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, your host Matt delves into an inspiring conversation with Pastor Mike Woods, the final pastor of First Baptist Church, Elberta, Alabama. Join us as Pastor Mike unravels the remarkable story of how his congregation made a profound decision to donate their cherished building to another congregation. Discover the heartwarming journey of collaboration, unity, and shared mission as Pastor Mike worked hand-in-hand with the pastors of The P...

People of the Way - Claire Bamberg

In this episode, Claire Bamberg shares wisdom learned from helping many congregations find a path forward. We learn about her process to guide churches in letting go of the past and embracing a new beginning. She is the founder of Potentials Customized Coaching and Consulting. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: Churches must often die to bring about a new life of ministry. The new can't begin until the old church has been mourned and grieved. Pastors, coaches, and consultants can't help a dy...

Failing God - Stephen Gray author of Legacy Churches

In this insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast, Matt sits down with Pastor Stephen Gray, the esteemed author of "Legacy Churches." Join us as we delve into the pages of Pastor Gray's book and explore his profound insights on the challenges and triumphs of legacy churches. 3 Takeaways for Dying Churches: No individual local church lasts forever. Ending is not failing God. Existing without serving the Gospel is failure. Pastors are not called to be private Chaplains to a dying congr...

Trailer

COMING SOON: The Last Service Podcast explores the narratives of American churches that have closed, consolidated, or merged. It's a celebration of good endings, enduring legacies, and the courage to embrace new beginnings. Join us as we delve into the lives of these churches, sharing stories that resonate with wisdom, and a commitment to ending well. Every episode is a testament to the hope that lies in finishing with grace, faith, and a sense of the bigger story God is writing. Subscribe...

Episode 4: Desserts!

Cadence, Piper, and Belinda share their favorite desserts.

Episode 3: Serious Talk About Princesses

The sisters tell you their favorite princesses, rate their dresses, and share some fun facts!

Episode 2: Thanksgiving

The sisters share their favorite things about Thanksgiving, Punk the Turkey, and more fun facts!

Episode 1: Candy