Closing Costs

“Closing Costs provides a much-needed resource for churches facing a transitional crossroads. But this isn’t just a practical workbook, for Dominic grounds his thinking in the missional imperative of outward discipleship and community engagement in Jesus Christ. It’s a must-read for every lay and clergy member who faces an uncertain future—and that is all of us!”


—Grant Hagiya, Resident Bishop, California-Pacific and Desert Southwest Annual Conferences, The United Methodist Church





“It’s always hard for churches to face uncertainty. The decision-making process can be paralyzing. This book provides practical insight that opens up new opportunities that churches should seriously consider. I recommend Dominic not only as an expert in his field but also as a friend and fellow follower of Jesus.”


—Josh Wroten, Lead Pastor, Grace Church





“If you’re about to embark on a building project or strategic plan, if you’re a member or leader of a faith-based organization, if you’re searching for a way to integrate the sacred and civil, then you are ready to read Closing Costs.”


—Gladys Guenther, SHF





“Thousands of churches will need to close or repurpose their buildings in the coming years. Dutra lifts up three options that churches facing closure may want to consider: merging, leasing, or selling their buildings. . . . Dutra calls us to focus primarily on mission and the good of our communities. Church death is not to be feared, for it presents an opportunity to give—and maybe even experience for oneself—new life.”


—Mark Elsdon, author of We Aren’t Broke





“Closing Costs offers resurrection hope. Through inspiring real-life examples, a prophet’s piercing analysis, and the culled wisdom of decades of experience, Dutra exhorts struggling faith communities to remember their mission . . . to care for the wounded and needy in our world. As you walk the Emmaus road of coming to terms with the impending death of your congregation, he is the companion that you want by your side.”


—Frank Rogers Jr., author of Compassion in Practice





“I am delighted that Dutra has put together this very practical resource. This book is the fruition of his long career of helping institutions explore their purpose and mission for the future. Closing Costs is a wonderful and timely resource that will benefit churches tremendously during this uncertain time for organized religion.”


—Kah-Jin Jeffrey Kuan, President and Professor of Hebrew Bible, Claremont School of Theology





“Closing Costs is the book your church needs, no matter its size, location, or denomination. . . . What Dominic offers in Closing Costs is an approach that every church should consider. Nothing is lost and everything is gained in connecting with and serving local communities, using our spaces for the glory of God and the care of God’s people.”


—John Harvey Taylor, Seventh Bishop of Los Angeles, Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles





“After the Torah, 1–2 Kings, and the Prophets come the books of wisdom. That is the section where I would place Dominic’s book on reimagining church real estate. He offers very pragmatic wisdom strongly tied to the discipleship of following Jesus and equally tied to the mission of the church. Dutra uses his gifts and experience well to provide a missional conversation about property that is, above all, healthy and faithful.”


—Gil Rendle, author of Quietly Courageous