The foundation of the Church is one God. God set everything in motion with teams of two, beginning with Adam and Eve. In the Great Flood, God saved his creation in sets of two. Jesus deployed his disciples in teams of two and from there the message of God’s love spread to YOU.

2×2 Foundation believes that the Church today can be energized by concentrating on the Small Church — congregations with active memberships of 150 or less. It’s not an easy job and it is often neglected. Members of small churches have good reason to feel discouraged.

Decades ago, small churches had more flexibility in structuring their ministries and the budgets. They often compensated a minister with housing and non-monetary support or teamed with neighboring parishes to support a spiritual leader. This created teamwork. Clergy and laity were working and sacrificing together. Today, professional leaders look for one-parish calls that can sustain a professional salary. This requires the contributions of about 300 lay persons per professional leader. The most valued lay contribution became monetary offerings. Small churches became revolving doors for minimal leadership. As congregations struggled to meet new salary demands, less money was available for ministry. The burden on members increased with less ministry to show for it.

Yet the small church has untapped power and potential. Statistically they out-number larger churches. They know their neighborhoods. The percentage of members actively engaged is likely to be higher than in large churches. They often have significant lay leadership skills because lay leadership is consistent, while pastors come and go. They are not likely ever to be large and they know it, but they will continue to play vital roles in their communities. Small congregations are natural nurturers. Seekers are likely to look to them as they struggle to build a relationship with God.

Many small congregations have survived more than 100 years through many economic challenges but today face extinction. We think they are worth saving.

2×2 Foundation will work to empower small churches. We believe that if people see their stewardship dollars and energy going to ministry and not just to support a building and pastor that things will change.

Something has to change.

We are just getting started. We don’t have all the answers, but we are betting that you do! Won’t you join us? Please share your ideas.