A "new adventure" would probably be an understatement if I try and describe what it is like to be a part of a church plant. There is so many things going on and so much to be accomplished with so few resources. It is an adventure...and so much more!
One of the visions that God has called Equip to do, is to be a church that plants churches. Where you might ask? Where ever! It may be local, nationally, internationally. If God directs we will follow.
One of the most important steps (after hearing and following God, of course) is to develop a church planting program that includes the steps/processes we want to take in working with a new pastor in planting a church. This is where I come in.
I am extremely passionate about this. I am excited about being able to come along side of someone and help them prepare to plant a church as they follow God's calling. I also realize, that I have no knowledge or training, outside of the gifts God has given me. Therefore, I am on a mission. I am looking for books, websites, conferences, webinars, etc. that provide great information about establishing a spiritual successful church plant.
I am beginning to read books like, Holy Discontent
I can fuss all day long about which books I should or shouldn't read, as we begin to focus on developing a program for planting churches. I am willing to beg, borrow and steal (with permission) from those who have done it right before me.
I am curious... what do you recommend? Any good books, websites, conferences, etc? Remember, we are a church plant, so money is no object...because we have none!
I was reviewing my twitter traffic from the last month and was wondering how I could share it with you. I didn't want to list out every twitter I have done. I didn't want to try and summarize 14o character messages.
In the end, I found the best solution. Enjoy my twitter summary of the tweets from the last month:
One of the tasks that has been laid at my feet has been the task of looking for a building. It is a very interesting process looking for a church building.
I have done my fair share of residential home shopping with a realtor, and I must say that looking for a church building is different.
I guess I wasn't really sure what to expect. Much like everything else about church business, it just works differently.
I hear great stories all the time of churches being given properties, or offering prices much less than market value, as low as $1, and seeing how God provides them the structure they need.
Of course, that hasn't happened yet for us. Although I am looking and praying, we still don't have a permanent facility. When will it happen? How will it happen? What miracles will God perform? I don't know...and frankly I don't care. I am excited to be in the process and look forward to what God is going to do!
By the Way, if you happen to own a large commercial building or church on the West side of Turlock, and are looking for a large write-off, give me a call!
Until then, God bless and be on the look at for a church building!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Here are a few things I am thankful for:
