Churches Form Kingdom Communities by Sharing Space
Westbury Baptist Church and Braeburn Valley Baptist Church pastors discuss how sharing space with congregations from diverse cultural backgrounds has become more than just a practical arrangement—it’s a vital expression of gospel partnership and the global body of Christ.
For Brandon Webb at Westbury Baptist Church, the journey began in 1983 when a Cambodian pastor approached them seeking a place to plant a church. That simple act of hospitality became a turning point in shaping the church’s approach to multicultural ministry.
As they began to share space, it opened their eyes to the beautiful complexity of the kingdom of God. “Working with different cultural congregations,” says Brandon, “has really become a reflection of what the Kingdom of God looks like.”
“Working with different cultural congregations has really become a reflection of what the Kingdom of God looks like.”
Dr. Gene Smith at Braeburn Valley Baptist Church agrees, “If we’re going to complete the Great Commission, we can’t do it without thinking about sharing space.”
At Braeburn Valley Church, a structured yet flexible approach to space-sharing has allowed up to seven congregations to worship under one roof. Vivian O’Brien, the church secretary, manages a detailed calendar and coordinates expectations with each group’s pastor.
“If we’re going to complete the Great Commission, we can’t do it without thinking about sharing space.”
While both pastors acknowledge challenges—like overcoming language barriers and miscommunications—the fruit has been rich as they discovered unity in diversity, mutual learning, and a stronger collective witness to their community.
One key to success? Theological alignment. Brandon emphasizes the importance of shared core beliefs. “We’re not competing in our message,” he explained. “We’re worshiping the same God, the same risen Jesus, following the same Holy Spirit.” This clarity helps foster trust and cooperation, deepening the spiritual bond between congregations.
Through shared worship services, honest conversations, and a commitment to Christian unity, these churches are modeling what it looks like to reflect God’s kingdom—right here in Houston.
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Because churches are better together.
Braeburn Valley and Westbury Baptist churches discuss the benefits of sharing space with other local congregations for greater Kingdom impact.