An exciting opportunity for

small churches in the

Presbytery of Eastern Virginia!

Small Church Cohort - Thursday, 3/5/26, 10 am via Zoom.

For many small churches, the building is both a gift and a challenge — holding our history and ministry while also requiring significant care, resources, and leadership energy. In this cohort conversation led by Karen DiLossi (Partners for Sacred Places), we’ll explore how buildings can support or hinder ministry, and share practical ideas for faithful stewardship, creativity, and possibility. Join us for an honest, collaborative conversation with others navigating similar realities.


Karen DiLossi, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Partners for Sacred Places, works with congregations and outside organizations to find the mission and vision alignment between them that will solidify their partnership and provide a solid foundation for their future together. Karen has developed a Manual of Best Practices for Space Sharing, guided contractual agreements between entities, written Space Assessment Reports, and led community engagement activities. Karen negotiates and finds compromise for partnerships to sustain themselves and thrive from sharing space with one another. Karen has her BA in History and Drama from Washington College and an MA in Theatre from Villanova University. She has completed the classroom requirements for a Level One (ACC) coaching credential from the International Coaching Federation

The Small Church Cohort is now fully established! This innovative initiative brings together small congregations within the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia (PEVA) to connect, collaborate, and thrive. Meetings are held monthly on the first Thursday of every month at 4:00 PM via Zoom.


Why This Cohort Matters


More than a quarter of PEVA's churches are small congregations. We deeply value their vital role in our communities—fostering close relationships, creating a strong sense of community, and providing essential local mission and worship opportunities.


However, the challenges are real. Over the past decade, ten of our small churches have had to close their doors. PEVA is dedicated to breaking this troubling trend. To do so, our congregations must take the time to think creatively about the future. Every church, regardless of size, is currently grappling with how to engage next generations in an era where traditional Sunday attendance is declining.


How We Support You


As members of the Wellness Team (Committee on Ministry), we feel a profound responsibility to support small churches navigating this reformation era. We know it can be daunting to plan for the future—especially if your congregation lacks a full-time minister, sufficient staff, volunteers, funding, or simply the extra energy required to research and initiate critical discussions.


The Small Church Cohort provides a structured, supportive space to:


  • Discuss topics directly relevant to small church ministry.
  • Share practical resources and ideas.
  • Foster collaboration and shared wisdom among participants.


How to Participate


We kindly ask each church to select at least one elder (past or present) to participate regularly in the cohort and report back to your church Session.


  • When: First Thursday of the month at 4:00 PM
  • Where: Online via Zoom
  • Register in advance: Join the Zoom Meeting


As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that with God’s guidance and our collective efforts, we can navigate this new era of ministry with hope and faith. We look forward to your church’s participation and the possibilities that lie ahead.


In Christ’s love,
The Wellness Team
Presbytery of Eastern Virginia


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