Tri-County staff members can specialize. One pastor does not have to be gifted at working with youth and the elderly, running a stewardship drive and handling every counseling situation. Each staff person can work in the area in which she or he is most gifted. Specialization has been especially helpful with youth ministry. Although congregations have increased opportunities for cooperation, each maintains its local identity and traditions regarding holiday services and celebrations, etc.
Many small congregations worry about keeping their doors open.
But they are strengthened and given a greater vision when joined with other churches. Each congregation has a deeper sense that they are connected with other believers. It creates hope for revival and not just survival. It was this renewed sense of hope that moved Carell Foss to leave a successful pastorate in a large church in Fargo to become the lead pastor of Tri-County. Last year each of the eight congregations in Tri-County met or exceeded their benevolence pledge and finished the year in the black financially.