Facilities
Introduction - Finding a meeting place is a major issue for most new churches.
Options include but are not limited to:
1. Purchasing a Facility - Few new churches can afford this option
2. Renting/Leasing a Facility - Again, many new churches can not afford this option
3. Schools (Public, Private, College, Day Care) - Many counties / cities allow schools to be rented by outside organizations. This is a great solution for a new church
4. Movie Theatres - Another great option. Children's ministry is more difficult to do than in a school, but the increased value of a theatre in terms of community name recognition (i.e. there is great marketing value in a theatre as everyone within miles knows where it is) makes this a good option to pursue. See Regal CineMeetings for more information
5. Community Centers - A good option. Sometimes small and often very local (without broader name recognition outside a specific community
6. Hotels - Another good option. Many hotels have ballrooms and conference rooms available on Sunday mornings
7. Private Businesses /Companies - Many local businesses have auditoriums and/or large meeting rooms. Get creative
8. Other Churches - Possibility for a Saturday or Sunday night service
Visit your local county or city planning office and get a list of every organization with an occupancy permit of over 200. This list will help you identify facilities in your area where large groups are allowed to meet.
Resources - Checkout the following free facility related resources:
