Church Planting 101

For the last several months, in addition to my ministry at CTS, I have been meeting with a core group of people that are joined together to start a new English-speaking international church in the city of Antwerp, Belgium. The name of the church is ANTIA - All Nations Together In Antwerp. It has been an interesting journey, and not one that I've taken before. I was involved in a new church plant in Cambodia, but not on the planning side of things, so this takes on a whole new dimension!

Why plant a church? Typically because there is a need for a group of people to hear the Gospel and to make disciples of those who come to know the Lord from the ministry of the church. We see this need in Antwerp. There are 1.2 million people in the greater Antwerp area, and they come from more than 200 nations of the world. Demographic studies tell us that there are over 5,000 English-speakers - a number that grows daily.

We plan to "launch" (start public services) on Pentecost Sunday this year (27 May 2007), but much needs to be accomplish before this day comes. Therefore I ask you to pray with us. Pray for the following things:

1. That we would hear God's voice & follow his direction with this new endeavor to reach Antwerp for Christ.
2. That God would bring more believers with specific gifts & talents would join the core group and allow God to use them to reach others.
3. That we would know where to go and how to let people know about the church...that God would direct our steps & efforts to start this church according to His plan.
4. That God would bless the small-group aspect of the church. Although we will have Sunday services, a key focus will be on forming holistic small-groups that develop relationship and foster discipleship.

Thanks for your prayers. Many opportunities are available for short-term missions! If working with an international church seems like something God would like to involve you in, please contact me!