A recent gathering brought together representatives from across the country to renew the denomination’s focus on church planting. This coincides with priority three of Project 250 which aims to multiply missional congregations, movements, and leaders
The gathering – which took place in Kansas City, Mo., October 14-16 – brought together church leaders, bishops, and pastors from each of the denomination’s seven regional conferences. The 24 representatives have invested in church planting initiatives in a variety of contexts across the country. The meeting was facilitated by Dustin Weber and Erick Ewaskowitz from Mission Igniter, an organization that equips church leaders in principles of church multiplication
During the event, participants discussed historical approaches to church planting and current trends in church attendance and engagement. These conversations formed the foundation for developing a comprehensive, holistic approach that fosters a vision for multiplication within Brethren in Christ U.S.
This approach focuses on vision clarity, collaborative efforts, and resource development while encompassing spiritual health, community engagement, and effective leadership.
A task force has been charged with putting these ideals into practice by creating an organizational system for identifying and equipping new leaders. Through training, spiritual dependence, community impact, and a willingness to adapt to changing cultural contexts, these leaders will usher in multiplication efforts in new places and among populations that are not currently being reached with the gospel.
With an emphasis on shared goals and metrics, BIC U.S. aims to foster a culture of multiplication, ensuring that the denomination remains vibrant and responsive to God’s calling for the next 250 years.
