How to Be Both Multisite and Missional—at Any Church

How to Be Both Multisite and Missional—at Any Church Cont’d, by Michael Beck explores the concept of the "blended ecology," emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between traditional or "inherited" church models and innovative or "fresh expressions" of church.

Beck argues that churches, regardless of size, can adopt a multisite approach by fostering diverse forms of worship and community engagement that coexist and support one another. This blended ecology reflects early church structure, which balanced centralized gatherings in Jerusalem with decentralized missions, such as those in Antioch. The article highlights that the early church's adaptability and responsiveness to contextual needs allowed for the emergence of distinct expressions of faith, like the Hellenist and Jewish branches, which were integrated through flexible and improvisational structures.

By embracing a mixed economy of church forms, contemporary congregations can revitalize their mission, creating new, interconnected expressions of faith that honor tradition while engaging with the evolving cultural landscape. This approach encourages churches to move beyond rigid, outdated structures and foster a dynamic environment where both inherited and emerging modes of ministry blend to form a unified, yet diverse, community of believers.

Read it here.