Starting a new church is a monumental endeavor. It requires careful planning, dedication, and unwavering commitment. The Association of Related Churches (ARC), a well-known organization dedicated to assisting church planters, emphasizes the critical importance of launching a church correctly the first time. The consequences of a hasty or ill-prepared launch can be significant, potentially leading to a relaunch, which is not ideal.
On a recent episode of UNSCRIPTED, Pastors Shaun and Dianna Nepstad sat down with Dino Rizzo to discuss why getting it right the first time is essential and how the Association of Related Churches can help achieve a successful church launch.
The Importance of a Strong Foundation
One of the fundamental principles the Association of Related Churches instills in prospective planters is the necessity of a strong foundation. Like building a house, planting ARC churches requires a solid base upon which everything else rests. This foundation includes thorough preparation in leadership, finances, personal wellness, and team building. Rushing through these crucial steps can lead to instability and challenges down the road.
The Role of Patience in Church Planting
The Association of Related Churches advises planters or ARC churches to take their time throughout the process. The excitement and passion to start a new church can sometimes lead to impatience, causing planters to push forward prematurely. However, when planting ARC churches, the ARC emphasizes that patience is not a sign of hesitation but rather a strategic move to ensure all elements are in place for a successful launch.
“So many people get the word, and they think it’s gotta happen tomorrow,” explains Shaun Nepstad. “But usually God gives you a word in seed form, and you have to water that thing.”
This patience allows for comprehensive training and assessment, ensuring the church is ready to thrive from day one.
Training and Assessment: The ARC Churches Approach
As Dino Rizzo explains, the Association of Related Churches provides extensive training and assessment for planters of ARC churches. This process includes evaluating the planter’s readiness spiritually and practically. The organization offers coaching and resources that cover everything from developing a compelling vision to practical aspects like financial management and team development. By following the guidelines the Association of Related Churches has established, planters are better equipped to handle the complexities of launching and leading a new church.
The Risk of Relaunching
While it is possible to relaunch a church, doing so is not ideal. A failed launch can lead to discouragement, financial strain, and loss of momentum. The Association of Related Churches understands these risks and works diligently to help planters of ARC churches avoid them. The key is in offering preparation and support before the church ever opens its doors. Ensuring that all potential issues are addressed beforehand significantly reduces the likelihood of needing to relaunch.
Building a Healthy Church
Another critical aspect the Association of Related Churches emphasizes is the health of the church. A church should grow in numbers, but it also must foster a healthy, vibrant community. This includes ensuring that the church leadership is healthy and equipped to handle the pressures of ministry. ARC places a strong emphasis on the personal well-being of planters, including their marriages and personal finances, understanding that these elements are foundational to thriving ARC churches.
Launching a church is a significant step that requires careful consideration and preparation. The Association of Related Churches provides invaluable support and resources to ensure that planters of ARC churches get it right the first time. By focusing on building a strong foundation, exercising patience, and prioritizing health and wellness, ARC helps new ARC churches start strong and stay strong.
If you are considering planting a church, partnering with the Association of Related Churches can be the difference between a successful launch and the need for a relaunch. Their proven approach and dedicated support make them an indispensable ally throughout the journey of church planting.
About the Association of Related Churches (ARC)
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) represents a collaborative network comprising independent congregations from various denominations, networks, and backgrounds. Its primary mission is to provide essential support and resources to church planters and pastors, enabling them to effectively share the teachings of Jesus Christ. The ARC’s operational approach revolves around empowering and equipping church leaders, thus helping them foster the widespread dissemination of Christ’s life-changing message. Established in 2000, the Association of Related Churches has evolved into a worldwide entity and has played a pivotal role in facilitating the establishment of over 1,100 new churches globally.