When we planted a church, we were the only church plant in our geographic region. I had contact with other pastors of local churches, but at the stage that our young church was in, it seemed that no one really understood where I was as a pastor and church planter.

It was during this time that I realized what was missing — relationships with other church planters. Unknowingly, I was seeking a place where I truly belonged — where I was truly understood. By God’s grace, I was invited to a lunch for church planters that changed my life. That was the day that I found my tribe.

Church planting can be a lonely journey. The ground can be tough, the people hard to connect with, and the breakthroughs few and far between. We need one another, and the gospel is the driving force that makes this possible.

But where does a new planter meet fellow brothers and sisters who are blazing a similar pathway?

Church planting can be a lonely journey. We need one another, and the gospel is the driving force that makes this possible.

“Start Here Gathering” is an orientation event that allows Church Planting NC (CPNC) to welcome new planters, sending churches and potential reproducing churches to the CPNC family.

Don’t get spooked by the term “orientation” thinking that this will be a boring information event. This two-day event brings new church planters and their sending churches together to cast vision and equip planters to embrace CPNC’s core values of tribe, reproduction and restoration.

At Start Here Gathering, attendees hear from leading church planting practitioners who have seen those values come to life in their context. Attendees will also learn more about training, coaching and care opportunities that can help them plant a healthy, reproducing church.

Ephesians 6:12 tells us that we are in a war, but that war is not earthly: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood…” and Satan will do whatever is necessary to distract, disrupt and dismiss an effective church planter. At Start Here Gathering planters learn who is lining up next to them in battle as we say together, “the battle belongs to the Lord.”

If you would like more information about Start Here Gathering, please click here to contact us.