Sensing a call from God to plant a church is an exciting moment. It is an invitation into the very essence of the "missio Dei" (the mission of God) - reconciling the world to Himself (2 Cor. 5:19). The task has been urgent in every generation and it is now certainly so in Canada.
There is much for a new planter to consider in discerning God's call. So much has been written and said about planting:
- You may read that the key to church planting is these 8 Principles, or using one of these 11 strategies.
- You will hear that bi-vocational planting is best (even ideal), but others will argue for full-time Planters.
- Someone will talk of their 5 Truths about Church Planting, someone else will share their Top 10 Church Planting Tips.
- There will be encouragment to have the right attitude and hopes, and to have margin in your life.
There is certainly no end to information and advice. If it leaves your head spinning and makes you wonder what advice to follow ... well, all of it is relevant and may apply to your call. Within ANiC, various strategies are being tried. The task is huge, the need is dire and as God's people we are being called into a new level of service and sacrifice. We do this knowing the battle is already won, and our God is infinitely greater than any challenge.
At Anglican Explorers we want to assist you in every way possible. We are working on a training program that will hopefully allow Planters to train and complete the studies needed for ordination without taking years out of life to attend seminary. Seminary is wonderful, but we understand that it is not always possible. We will also be able to assist and advise about opportunities for planting (i.e. where to plant) if you are sensing that you may be called to a new place. Please contact us so that we can start walking with you as God's purpose for you becomes clear.
The first steps, besides contacting Anglican Explorers, will be to speak to your Rector, your church Board or missions committee, and a group of friends/supporters who will pray and walk with you.
