Church is Changing Church is Changing: Episode 82 - Lindsey Joyce
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Dec 4, 2025 Lindsey Joyce, Pastor of Grace Church of Logan Square, leads a cooperative parish in Chicago emphasizing shared ministry and neighborhood solidarity. In the discussion, she tackles the challenges posed by ICE raids and highlights her congregation's supportive role in response. Lindsey distinguishes between collaborative and cooperative models, advocating for the latter as a means to strengthen local church dynamics. She shares insights on building community relationships, adapting cooperative practices, and the importance of having a clear mission for effective ministry.
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Cooperative Vs Collaborative Distinction
- Lindsey Joyce defines collaborative versus cooperative and explains cooperatives tie congregations so their well-being is mutually dependent.
- Cooperatives share staff, budgets, buildings and create a common mission beyond separate congregational identities.
Five Years Of Mutual Stabilization
- Lindsey describes five years of work, including the pandemic, stabilizing churches through deep health work and mutual support.
- That shared support prevented at least one congregation from closing during the crisis years.
Build Flexible Entry And Exit Paths
- Do allow flexibility: expect changing membership and be ready with on-ramps and off-ramps for churches.
- Use honest conversations to bless moves, mergers, or conference support when a fit fails.