Three Paths to Church Planting

1. Planting a New Church

Starting a new congregation from scratch. This requires a church planter with a clear calling, a sending church or network, and a target community. Most church plants take 3-5 years to become self-sustaining.

2. Replanting a Dying Church

Revitalizing an existing congregation that is declining or near closure. Replanting is often more complex than planting because it involves working with existing members, history, and culture. But it also has built-in assets: a building, a name, and a community presence.

3. Sponsoring a Church Plant

A small church can participate in church planting by sponsoring a planter or plant financially, sending members to help launch the new congregation, or providing mentorship and support to a planting pastor. This is often the most accessible path for small churches.

Key Questions Before You Plant

• Is there a clear calling? Church planting requires a specific calling, not just a desire for growth.
• Is there a qualified planter? The planter’s character, calling, and competence are the most important factors in a plant’s success.
• Is there a target community? Who is this church for? Where will it be located?
• Is there a sending structure? Who will support, supervise, and hold the planter accountable?
• Is there a financial plan? Church plants typically need 2-3 years of financial support before becoming self-sustaining.

Church Planting Networks

Most successful church plants are connected to a network that provides training, accountability, and financial support. Major networks include:

• Acts 29 — evangelical, Reformed-leaning network
• Stadia — church planting organization focused on underserved communities
• North American Mission Board (NAMB) — Southern Baptist church planting
• Denominational networks — most denominations have church planting programs

Church planters are at high risk for burnout. Pastoral Burnout: Warning Signs, Causes, and Recovery — a practical guide for pastors and the people who care about them.

Church plants face unique conflict challenges. Church Conflict Resolution for Small Churches — a biblical, practical guide.

Need to report to your supporters? Church Annual Report Guide — free template and practical guidance.