Is Together Better? Investigating the Relationship between Network Dynamics and Congregations’ Vitality and Sustainability

Background Although few studies have explored predictors of congregational vitality (i.e., ministry-oriented strengths, not attendance or growth) and sustainability, inter-organizational relationships matter for organizational wellbeing because their impact on trust, cooperation, information access. However, investigating the relationship between social capital sustainability has previously been possible due to data limitations. Purpose This article investigates extent which brokerage, bridging together otherwise disconnected congregations, predicts in an inter-congregational network religious congregations from eight counties encompassing surrounding a major metropolitan area southeastern United States. Research networks organizations suggests that brokerage can positive, negative, curvilinear with outcomes, this literature does provide clear expectation how might relate sustainability. Methods OLS regressions are used predict three forms two using inverse constraint, measure as well variety control variables. Statistical significance is estimated through permutation tests, account congregations. Results indicate positively associated community staff/volunteer highest moderate levels brokerage. Brokerage spiritual vitality, relational financial Conclusions Implications practical implications Bridging wide range ideas, resources, opportunities, these benefits help seeking minister communities. In addition, more diverse resources supportive, trusting, cooperative environment. combination may be helpful disclose challenges seek related contributes fields of: exploring sustainability; sociology religion expanding research analysis; networks, whose outcomes both complicated conflicting.