I don't know if there is much in a name as many people think. There have been far too many examples of churches that have changed their names but haven't changed thei vision. The church you mention in Fremont sounds like a name change would be useful, but I think the most important thing is making sure that your name fits your vision.
We're called "the Annex" cause we want to be that thing that helps people to feel more comfortable in their initial contacts with God through Christ. We also think a relationship with God brings a better understanding of the value God has on each of our lives (all of humankind). Finally, it's also a great way to help people within our church remember our vision.

we changed the name of our church about three years ago and it was one of the best moves we've ever made. we dropped the denominational title and renamed our church, "Orchard Valley Community Church" - and now we refer to our church as, "The Orchard."

but not only did we change the name, we changed the entire philosophy and culture of our church as well. in fact, we initially waited to change our name until after we made a big shift in our weekend progamming (a big external change), which eventually led to a huge internal cultural change.

Changing our name and getting rid of the denominational title helped us reach a segment of unchurched people who had stereotyped our denomination. but - i agree w/ srotpar above, changing the name only isn't going to get the job done.

I think what Scott said that was the key difference is that his church changed philosophy and culture. I think if the name change changes the church internally, then you'll see the difference. My church has the name Baptist in the name - but go to a service and it's anything BUT baptist. We dont change the name because our philosophy, service, and culture are not affected by the name. Membership is not at all affected by the name.

I don't see how a church with a DBA from one name to another makes a difference. You still suffer from the same cost concerns like business cards, letterheads, etc.

We are looking at changing the name of our church for several reasons: We are building outside of town, which means we are changing our location entirely. The name has been with the church since 1941 and a sense of "change" and "freshness" has being felt by the ministry team. Also, the church has asked to consider it so that the comdmunity doesn't feel a sense of "denomination" loyalty. So, we are considering it, but does one consider using a company that helps the business world to come up with a name? They are very expensive ($7,500 to $25,000) and I believe if the end result is a fabulous it would be worth it. As you may know, a new buildng has so many other costs that need attention.
How can we go about getting the right name for us? We do have a mission statement, purpose statement, etc. We did survey the church for names and have a list. Honestly, nothing seemed to jump out at us. Help

I appreciate the ongoing dialogue about a name change and its potential to influence a change in the church climate. We are looking for ways to bring a freshness, and vitality to a tired congregation suffering from burnout. I agree with the sentiments that without an internal assessment and transformation of vision and direction a change of name has little to no power to draw people closer to a relationship with Christ.

Hay guys, i just want to ask you all where you're at, because reading some of these comments i questioned whether you understood the whole reason for changing a name --- it's not the same thing as changing the culture unless the name change is representing that. it is about seeing the church and the names we give our churches from a non-churched person's point of view... what does 'baptist' or 'the new life' or 'the reformed tabernacle' mean to someone who isn't a Christian and doesn't know our jargen? Because surely if we are to reach a lost generation, we should be using language, names and stories that they understand - as Jesus Himself did.

im tracking with the post right above mine. probably a silly question, but why does a church even need a name?

so that when people give money they can put it on the check...? this and corporate marketing? neither of which would be allowable in times of persecution. not that we have to adhere to ministry philosophy during persecuted eras, but what is absolutely essential to a successful ministry? what is more important, our name or our impact in the comunity? who cares if name recognition causes people to know who we are and what we stand for... btw CenterPoint says nothing to a lost person. its only attractive to members of another church. our impact in the community should be such that they are changed by the power of the gospel. not to go super-spiritual here, but its the name of Christ we want them to remember most.

not that i think a church should not have a name; ive actually spent hours thinking of oa cool name for a church someday. just trying to get to the heart of the matter. why do i want one so badly? i obviously need help getting there. smile