One Church, Multiple Models: How the Mixed Ecology Approach Transforms Ministry

In this insightful episode of the Pivot Podcast, we talk with Dwight Zscheile about the concept of "one church multiple models" through what he calls a "mixed ecology" approach.

Dwight unpacks the idea of a “mixed ecology” – where traditional congregations and new forms of ministry can flourish together as one church with multiple expressions. He explains how cultural shifts are making traditional church structures increasingly obsolete for younger generations, while presenting practical ways to develop multiple models that don’t add to leaders’ already full plates.

Explore how clergy can shift from “performing” ministry to equipping others, discover practical first steps toward nurturing both inherited and new expressions of church, and learn the biblical foundations for diverse ministry models using the vine and branches metaphor. Whether you’re struggling with declining attendance, volunteer burnout, or connecting with your changing community, embracing one church multiple models offers a hopeful path forward that honors tradition while embracing creative new approaches. Dwight’s insights from his forthcoming book, co-authored with Blair Pogue, provide a timely roadmap for church leaders navigating today’s challenging ministry landscape.