Discerning Church Starters

The cycle begins with discernment. Specifically, it begins with discerning a call toward faithful innovation

There are numerous aspects to this holy process. Thus, as a discerner, we invite your leader into two requirements to work through discerning a call to start a new church.

Firstly, we invite your leader into a relationship with a coach, therapist or spiritual director. This monthly meeting will allow your leader to discuss your process of discernment with a thoughtful and caring expert. 

Secondly, we have found that the work of discernment needs to be worked out in a community of like-minded peoples. Thus, we invite your leader into a discernment group. In these meetings, your leader will cross-pollinate your discernment process with others.  

Five Activities of the Discernment Process

1.) Begin to develop a vision

A vision for a new church often begins with the discerning church starter. As our discerners listen and pray, we encourage them to begin to frame their vision for the context in which they find themselves. 

2.) Identify resourcing partner

Different leaders require different levels of resources based upon numerous elements. As these elements are perceived, we encourage our discerners to grow healthy relationships with their partners.

3.) Identify a tradition

Starting a new church is difficult. Starting a new church without a tradition is even harder. Thus, utilizing our extensive networks for identifying a fitting tradition is essential for support and growth. 

4.) Attend an assessment center

Our assessment center for Cyclical measures one's ability to identify what God is doing in context. Plan on walking the streets and engaging the Holy Spirit while a caring group of objective assessors gauge aptitudes essential for starting new churches.

5.) Begin to gather a church starting team

We can't do this alone. Thus, beginning to gather a team around a common and shared vision is an essential step toward becoming a church starter.