Every organization goes through changes. ATM is no different. For the past several years the church base and financial base has been eroding. There are significant good things going on, but likewise, there are changes. Internationally, ATM has been successful and continues to see expanding opportunities. Stateside, the situation is different.

In 2007, two churches withdrew from the network. One associate in PA withdrew as of the first of 2008 and Heartland Christian Center of Wooster withdrew effective December 1 of 2007. The relationship with Jim Sustar remains amicable, but he felt the need to go in a different direction. Heartland has been the primary supporter in recent years of the work in Albania. The missions in Albania have been transferred to the Heartland church.

 Networks were the cutting edge in the 70's and 80's. Leaders were finding one another. Apostles were planting churches and those churches in their sphere wanted to relate. Networks easily morph into structures that are hierarchal or denominational.

With a change of generations and the rise of post modern thought, networks have been disappearing or changing drastically. Second generation leadership does not have the pioneer relationships that once were enjoyed.

The trend now seems to be taking care of the local. Churches have turned to local issues and local emphasis. Survival is the number one focus. This trend has diminished the world vision that once grasped the heart of the church. To witness, the ATM short term mission program has dwindled significantly with fewer trips and fewer interested in going.

Networks work only so long as the relationships remain. When relationships weaken, so does the network. With churches closing, merging, or focusing locally, the network becomes weakened in its global efforts.

We live in challenging times. Good relationships can strengthen alliances and teamwork. Bad or cool relationships stagnate the work. Networks can work, but the ties must be strong.