A Robot’s Guide to Planting a Church

I went to an AI conference in Cleveland, sidenote CLE is super boring not even people who live live there know what to do for fun, and learned a few new tools, one of those is Claude.ai

Claude has the ability to read text files you upload and has a larger capacity to remember the conversation, ChatGPT has a limit of about 8000 words and Claude remembers closer to 100,000 words. Don’t hold me to those numbers, they are always changing.

Several presenters at the conference talked about the fact that we need to stop thinking about this Ai chat interface like a Google search bar and start actually talking to it like you would a person. So I tried it. 

One night, while being bored in Cleveland, I started talking to Claude about Church Planting. One thing led to another and 2 hours later I was shocked at what was developing. 

At first I kept it kind of basic but then I started critiquing it and arguing with it about why its plan would work. I left it at that. I didn’t ask it to make corrections but it took my feedback and started editing it’s plan. 

Then I started to ask it to take on the persona of a seasoned church planter and critique itself, I also asked to be super harsh which I thought was funny. 

I also told it that I was its advisor and told it that it could ask me questions it thought might help it create a better plan.

I also asked to explain why it was making certain choices, this part was fascinating to me!

By the end of conversation it had created a good amount of church planting resources.

• Church Name: South Shore Community church
• Church Plant Launch Plan
• Core Values
• 15 Month Timeline
• Budgets, 1 year and 3 year
• 5 Phased Fundraising Campaign
• Leadership development
• Systems
• Small Group Model
• Online Outreach Framework
• 30 Online outreach Ideas that lead to online groups and Sermon Series
• 15 Page Church Plant Prospectus
• 12 Month Church Plant Residency that includes field projects, reading lists and cohort discussions
• Resource list for future Church Planters

All in all I am super impressed. Its ability to take on personas, critique itself and make adjustments is very impressive. 

I hope more pastors embrace this tool. Yes there are dangers but the upsides are way more impactful than potential downsides.

Think of it like the internet in the late 90’s. Just because some people use the internet to do back things does that mean every christian, pastor or church should not use it to reach more of their community, of course not!

In the same way I think we should learn how to use this tool while also being cautious of its effects and limitations. 

Here is my full conversation with Cluade with my statements and responses in bold text.

You are an innovative pastor that has a plan to plant a church that is biblically centered, radically generous, community focused. You are planting in the south shore area of Boston. What would be your launch plan? Be sure to include the name of your church, it’s core values, community events, timeline, budget, leadership structure, major systems of operations. Also include why you are choosing those options and not others.

Here is a potential church plant launch plan for the south shore area of Boston:

Church Name: South Shore Community Church

Core Values:

• Biblically-Centered Teaching – We believe the Bible is the inspired word of God and seek to faithfully teach and apply it.
• Radical Generosity – We seek to generously care for those in need and foster a culture of generosity within our church community.
• Community Focus – Building meaningful relationships and serving our local community are top priorities.

Launch Timeline:

• Now through December 2023: Core team recruitment, fundraising, systems development
• January-March 2024: Initial marketing and outreach in the community
• April 2024: Launch large preview services and events
• May 2024: Official weekly services begin

Budget:

• $150,000 total first year budget
• Major expenses: staff salaries, service/event costs, marketing, technology

Fundraising:

• Seek launch donations from supporters – goal of raising $100,000
• Apply for grants from church planting networks
• Plan 1-2 special fundraising events

Leadership Team:

• Lead Pastor – oversees preaching, vision casting, staff management
• Worship Leader – plans music, recruits team
• Community Life Director – oversees small groups, events, volunteers
• Children’s Director – oversees nursery and children’s programs

Systems:

• Discipleship program with resources for growth at every level
• Dream team structure for recruiting and organizing volunteers
• Robust children’s ministry with security procedures

Rationale:

• 9-12 month timeline allows for adequate preparations and systems development
• Focus on generosity and community engagement is a differentiation point
• Strong leadership team in key ministry areas provides needed expertise
• Systems enable effective mobilization, discipleship and care of attendees
• Budget focuses on critical staffing and ministry expenses to launch well

The goal is to thoughtfully launch a healthy, biblical church that meets real needs in the community. This plan seeks to put in place key elements for long-term success.

Expand on the systems aspect of your plan. It should comprehensive and thoughtful 

Here is an expanded overview of the systems I would develop for the church plant:

Discipleship System 

• Multi-level discipleship courses aligned to different stages of spiritual growth
• 101 course for new believers on basics of faith
• 201 course on core doctrines and disciplines like prayer, Bible study, community
• 301 course on spiritual gifts, stewardship, serving
• 401 course on apologetics, evangelism, leadership
• Courses feature a study guide, weekly group discussions, and opportunities to put learning into practice.
• Courses are offered on a rotating schedule so people can join at any point.
• We will also offer occasional topical courses on marriage, parenting, financial stewardship etc.
• The goal is to offer clear next steps to help people grow in their walk with Christ at every stage.

Volunteer System 

• Database to track member skills, interests and availability for serving
• “Dream team” structure where volunteers join a specific serving team of their choice
• Teams for hospitality, children’s ministry, worship, facilities/tech, greeting/parking etc
• Regular recruitment drives with serving testimonies
• Volunteer Fair event where members can explore teams and sign up to serve
• Team trainings and appreciation events
• The goal is to provide clear on-ramps for members to use their gifts and find meaningful ways to serve.

Small Group Model 

• Small groups organized by demographics – young adults, men, women, married couples etc.
• Groups meet regularly for Bible study, fellowship and to live out our “one another” commands in Scripture.
• Quarterly sign-ups allow flexibility in joining groups
• Resources provided for leaders on facilitating discussion, handling conflicts, etc
• Church-wide emphasis each month on that quarter’s small group study/curriculum
• Groups organized into clusters under leadership point person for support/training
• Goal is to foster meaningful community where people grow spiritually and relationally

The key objectives are 1) Next step growth through discipleship 2) Engagement through service 3) Community through small groups. Each system aims to make these aspects accessible and essential parts of the church.

How will you ensure that each of these systems has “multiplication and growth” built into it?

Here are some ways I would build multiplication and growth into each of these core systems:

Discipleship System:

• Encourage course “graduates” to become discussion leaders for new classes
• Develop a training pipeline for raising up new teachers over time
• Create an apprenticeship program where less experienced teachers can shadow and assist veteran teachers
• Set goals for launching new courses each year to expand offerings

Volunteer System:

• Current team leaders identify and train apprentices to multiply leadership
• Create leadership “ladders” within teams to give emerging leaders growth opportunities
• Cast vision for most volunteers to eventually step into team leader roles
• Set goals for launching new serving teams each year in critical ministry areas

Small Groups:

• Encourage mature groups to multiply by dividing into new groups over time
• Provide coaching for emerging leaders to eventually start new groups
• Host a “Group Leader Roundtable” for training and collaboration
• Set goals for number of new groups to launch each year
• Develop an apprentice leader program, allowing aspiring leaders to assist current leaders

The key is to think reproduction into every level of leadership development. Emerging leaders are given opportunities to grow in influence over time. Mature leaders are encouraged to identify and empower new leaders. Quantifiable goals provide accountability for steady multiplication in all systems.

Expand on your launch timeline this should be at least 500 words and be comprehensive and detailed

Here is an expanded overview of a 12-15 month launch timeline for the new church plant:

Phase 1: Advance Preparations (Months 1-6)

• Form initial launch team and begin meeting for prayer/planning
• Develop church plant proposal and timeline
• Create documents articulating vision, values, strategy
• Research demographics and needs of target community
• Scout potential venues for services and events
• Build church website and social media channels
• Begin fundraising and budget development
• Apply for grants from church planting networks
• Start collecting names for prayer team and interest list

Phase 2: Systems Development (Months 3-9)

• Create discipleship course curriculum and materials
• Build volunteer recruitment and management system
• Develop small group model and resources
• Craft children’s ministry policies and procedures
• Refine Sunday service plans – music, preaching, flow
• Build administrative systems – accounting, policies
• Hire staff (worship leader, community life director, etc)
• Develop team training resources and protocols

Phase 3: Marketing and Events (Months 6-12)

• Roll out marketing campaigns – social media, mailers, ads
• Plan community outreach events – block parties, service days
• Host events to build launch team community
• Develop strategic partnerships with local organizations
• Host preview services every 2-3 months to build momentum

Phase 4: Weekly Services Begin (Month 12-15)

• Confirm weekly venue and service schedule
• Host large launch weekend preview services
• Begin regular weekly Sunday services
• Provide post-launch training/troubleshooting for teams
• Plan and host community events to reach new people
• Work through inevitable challenges and continue refining systems

The goal of this extended runway is to ensure all key ministry areas and systems are well prepared before launching public services. This allows the new church to start strong and prevents easily avoidable missteps.

The south shore doesn’t have a lot of committed Christians. How will you find your launch team?

Finding a committed launch team will be crucial in an area like the South Shore that may not have many existing believers to draw from. Here are some key strategies I would use:

• Network with other pastors/churches in Boston and surrounding areas to promote the vision and recruit potential team members open to a new adventure. Offer to come share about the church plant with their congregations.
• Attend regional church planting, missions, and ministry conferences to cast vision and gauge interest. Follow up with interested individuals for further conversations.
• Use social media and targeted ads to promote the church plant. This can attract advocates near and far. Offer easy next steps to learn more or get involved.
• Spend time building relationships with any existing believers in the target community. Share the vision and assess their potential readiness to be part of the core team.
• Consider bringing on board some experienced team members from outside the area who align with the vision and are willing to relocate. Compensate for lack of local believers.
• Make multiple trips to build connections in the community before launch. Seek divine appointments and listen for potential kingdom collaborators.
• Host regular information sessions for those interested in the launch team. Share the vision, answer questions, assess readiness.
• Inspire potential team members by sharing stories of transformed lives from other church plants.
• Bathe the entire process in prayer, trusting God to draw the right people. Be patient, discerning and tenacious.

Launching in a spiritually challenging area may mean casting a wider net for the team and taking more time to find those whose hearts resonate with the vision. Starting with the right people provides the foundation for outreach to those who don’t know Jesus yet.

A lot of people in this area are disenfranchised Catholics that left for good reasons. They have a Catholic “memory” even if they haven’t been to “mass” in 15-20 years. How will your new church reach these people and why should they give your church a shot when they left a different church so many years ago?

That’s a great point. Reaching disenchanted former Catholics in the South Shore would require a thoughtful, sensitive approach:

• Emphasize that we are not here to bash or judge the Catholic church. Acknowledge there are sincere Christ-followers still within the Catholic church.
• Make clear we are not merely another “denomination” or institution but a community of imperfect people seeking to follow Jesus.
• Focus more on relationship than religion. Build genuine friendships with no strings attached. Earn trust over time through love and consistency.
• Explain we aim to directly teach from the Bible rather than church tradition. Let Scripture speak for itself as God’s living Word.
• Make services positive, uplifting, and culturally relevant. Strong biblical preaching but in everyday language.
• Share stories of former disenchanted Catholics who found new life in a genuine walk with Jesus.
• Leverage community service and outreach to serve real needs, with no ulterior motives.
• If asked, respectfully explain theological differences on things like authority, priesthood, salvation. Focus on Scripture rather than attacking.
• Welcome questions and even skepticism. Give people time and space to process and heal from past church hurt.
• Refuse to argue or pressure. Invite people to check us out, but let the Holy Spirit draw them.

With patience, love and biblical truth, we can demonstrate that a transformed life in Christ is available to all, regardless of church background. Each person must prayerfully follow Jesus wherever He leads them.

Expand on your budget. Make it comprehensive, detailed. Include a multi year outline for expenses.

Here is a proposed 3-year budget for the new church plant:

Year 1 Budget:

Staffing:

• Lead Pastor Salary: $50,000
• Worship Leader Salary: $30,000 (Part-time)
• Community Life Director Salary: $30,000 (Part-time)
• Ministry Assistants: $20,000 (Part-time shared admin/support roles)
• Taxes/Benefits: $15,000 Total: $145,000

Operations:

• Equipment & Technology: $10,000 (Sound, video, computer)
• Events & Marketing: $15,000
• Facilities Rental: $12,000
• Misc Supplies & Resources: $8,000 Total: $45,000

Year 1 Total: $190,000

Year 2 Budget:

Staffing:

• Lead Pastor Salary: $60,000
• Worship Leader Salary: $40,000
• Children’s Director Salary (New Hire): $40,000
• Community Life Director Salary: $40,000
• Ministry Assistants: $30,000
• Taxes/Benefits: $25,000 Total: $235,000

Operations:

• Equipment & Technology: $5,000
• Events & Marketing: $10,000
• Facilities Rental: $24,000 (Larger rented space)
• Misc Supplies & Resources: $10,000 Total: $49,000

Year 2 Total: $284,000

Year 3 Budget:

• Work towards purchasing a facility
• Add staff as needed
• Build towards weekly attendance of 200+

The budget focuses first on staffing key ministry areas, then expanding staff and operations in year 2 after launch. Facilities rental keeps overhead low until potential future building purchase. Overall it allows for healthy, sustainable growth over 3 years.

In what ways will you use online resources to help you reach the south shore? Also what do you think about the debate over “in person church” and “online church” give me your opinions and why you came to those conclusions.

Here are my thoughts on utilizing online resources and the in-person vs. online church debate:

Ways to use online resources:

• Church website – Clear information about beliefs, staff, events, sermons
• Social media – Community building, event promotion, real-time engagement
• Email lists – Regular updates, digital bulletins, easily share resources
• Streaming services – Reach those unable to attend, provide sermon access
• Mobile app – Events calendar, announcements, mobile giving, resources
• Blogs/Podcasts – Deeper discussions on topics, leadership insights

Online church has advantages such as flexibility, expanded reach and leveraging technology. However, I believe in-person church community is vital for several reasons:

• Gathered worship provides powerful sacred moments together with God that cannot be replicated online.
• In-person fellowship enables meaningful relationship-building at a deeper level.
• Serving together increases purpose and utilizes more of our gifts.
• Shared physical spaces create “third spaces” that facilitate community.
• Hands-on service and mission work happen in the local context.
• Corporate discernment of God’s leading occurs best when physically together.

I aim to thoughtfully leverage online tools to engage people and remove barriers to participation. However, the core of church life centers around in-person gatherings where disciples commit to “one another” and “stirring one another to love and good deeds” in ways only possible face-to-face. Online engagement can supplement but not replace this. A hybrid model focused on physical community seems most biblical and effective.

If someone gave you $100000 and you could only spend it to grow your “online church” what would you do and why?

Here are some ideas for utilizing a $100,000 budget focused specifically on growing our online church presence and impact:

• Invest in high-quality video equipment and staff/volunteers to significantly upgrade production value of online services, promo videos, and other visual media.
• Build a top-notch church app with live streaming, on-demand sermons, mobile giving, event promotion, etc. Make our content extremely accessible.
• Optimize our website for digital outreach – have clear calls to action, online connection points, high-quality graphics to convey our vision.
• Purchase Facebook/Instagram ads targeted locally to raise awareness and drive traffic to our online channels. Provide relevant value and next steps.
• Host virtual events like services for special holidays, prayer times, virtual Bible studies to engage people online.
• Create a daily devotional email subscribers can opt into as a gateway to other online engagement.
• Develop online discipleship courses and spiritual development resources people can access.
• Allocate funds to boost social media posts and build followers.
• Hire a digital media strategist to maximize our impact and reach online.

The goal with this budget would be leveraging technology to creatively connect with people, build an online community focused on discipleship and spiritual growth, and utilize new platforms for outreach. Quality over quantity, leading people into genuine relationship with Christ.

In what ways could online be used as an “outreach” avenue to help meet the emotional and spiritual needs of people in the south shore who might be spiritually curious but not ready to attend a church.

Here are some ideas for utilizing online platforms specifically for outreach to spiritually open people in the South Shore:

• Create short, engaging videos that answer common spiritual questions like “Is God real?”, “Why does God allow suffering?”, “Isn’t Christianity just a crutch?” – and promote them on social media.
• Host periodic live Q&A times online where people can anonymously ask anything and get a loving, biblical response.
• Develop a strong apologetics presence on social platforms answering objections and making the case for Christianity.
• Share testimonies online of local people who found hope in Jesus. Allow interaction and follow-up.
• Leverage online ads targeting spiritual interest and curiosity keywords to direct them to our online resources.
• Offer easily accessible online classes on basic topics like “Who is Jesus?”, “Core Truths of Christianity”, “Finding Life’s Purpose”.
• Create a daily encouraging devotional email for anyone to subscribe to – inspiring and uplifting without pressure.
• Use social media to promote and report on serving opportunities – spackle hope by showing how we help real needs.

The goal would be creating spaces online where people can explore Christianity, get questions answered, connect with encouragement, and see the faith modeled – all without pressure before they may be ready to step into in-person church. Maximum relevance and transparency.

Online platforms allow low-barrier ways to build relationships with the spiritually open and guide them on their journey towards Christ.

If you were to start a series of webinars that lead to online groups that then lead into sermon series at your church. What would be the top 10 webinars you would do? Be sure to include the webinar title, 3 points, the online group and what the focus would be and the sermon series and it’s topics for each webinar.

Here are 10 potential webinar topics that could lead into online groups and sermon series:

1. Is There More to Life Than This?

• Points: Dissatisfaction with status quo, universal longing for meaning, God-shaped void in each person
• Group: Sharing stories of spiritual journeys and longings
• Sermon Series: “Finding Life’s Purpose”

1. Who is Jesus – Really?

• Points: Jesus’ radical claims, historial reliability of gospels, compelling evidence for resurrection
• Group: Exploring the identity, works and words of Jesus
• Sermon Series: “The Real Jesus”

1. Why Does God Allow Suffering?

• Points: The problem of evil, God’s purposes in suffering, trusting God’s wisdom and sovereignty
• Group: Sharing experiences with suffering and finding hope
• Sermon Series: “Where is God in Hard Times?”

1. Isn’t Christianity Just a Crutch?

• Points: We all lean on something, misconceptions about faith as a crutch, genuine transformation in Christ
• Group: Discussing doubts, objections and seeking truth
• Sermon Series: “Tough Questions”

1. How Can I Know God is Real?

• Points: Arguments for God’s existence, personal experience of God, invitation to seek and test
• Group: Sharing spiritual experiences and miracles
• Sermon Series: “Evidence for God”

1. What Happens After I Die?

• Points: Human soul and afterlife, biblical teaching on heaven/hell, assurance of salvation in Christ
• Group: Reflecting on mortality and eternal destinations
• Sermon Series: “Afterlife and End Times”

1. How to Hear God’s Voice

• Points: Devotional life, learning to recognize God’s voice, discernment
• Group: Sharing experiences hearing from God
• Sermon Series: “Connecting with God”

1. Keys to Finding Freedom from Guilt/Shame

• Points: We are all broken, grace and forgiveness in Christ, identity in Him
• Group: Walking through steps to freedom
• Sermon Series: “Freedom from Shame”

1. Navigating Depression and Anxiety

• Points: Common struggles, spiritual helps, professional care, finding hope in Christ
• Group: Sharing experiences and encouragement
• Sermon Series: “Finding Hope”

1. The Art of Prayer

• Points: Models of prayer, hindrances and breakthroughs, practicing God’s presence
• Group: Creative prayer exercises, shared experiences
• Sermon Series: “Prayer Works”

Create 10 more but for people that are open to church but don’t have spiritual questions.

Here are 10 additional webinar topics focused on those open to church but without immediate spiritual questions:

1. Achieving Work-Life Balance

• Points: Setting healthy boundaries, managing competing priorities, stewarding time and energy
• Group: Sharing work-life challenges and solutions
• Sermon Series: “Rest for the Weary”

1. Keys to a Thriving Marriage

• Points: Biblical roles, effective communication, cultivating intimacy and partnership
• Group: Marriage enrichment and encouragement
• Sermon Series: “Marriage God’s Way”

1. Being an Amazing Parent

• Points: Unconditional love, nurturing character and competence, mentoring faith
• Group: Discussing parenting wins/challenges
• Sermon Series: “Parenting with Purpose”

1. Managing Stress and Anxiety

• Points: Identifying stressors, healthy coping mechanisms, finding inner peace
• Group: Peer support and stress relief strategies
• Sermon Series: “Finding Calm in the Chaos”

1. Mastering Personal Finances

• Points: Budgeting, reducing debt, saving, generosity, contentment
• Group: Setting financial goals and sharing tips
• Sermon Series: “Money and Possessions”

1. Discovering Your God-Given Gifts

• Points: Spiritual gifts, strengths/passions, personality, providential experiences
• Group: Stories of aligning vocation with gifting
• Sermon Series: “Living Out Your Purpose”

1. Key Habits for Optimal Health

• Points: Nutrition, exercise, rest, managing healthcare
• Group: Sharing favorite health practices and motivation
• Sermon Series: “Honoring God with Your Body”

1. Overcoming Past Hurts and Baggage

• Points: Steps to freedom through forgiveness, releasing bitterness
• Group: Healing through shared stories and prayer
• Sermon Series: “Freedom from Your Past”

1. Navigating Loneliness and Isolation

• Points: Vulnerability, friendship, community participation
• Group: Creating community and mutual support
• Sermon Series: “You Are Not Alone”

1. Finding Your Confidence and Identity

• Points: Daughter/son of God, life in Christ, physical/spiritual makeover
• Group: Affirming our identity and shared journey
• Sermon Series: “Know Who You Are in Christ”

The goal is meeting felt needs first before transitioning into spiritual topics in later webinars and church services. Provide value and build relationships.

These are great, please create 10 more like these.

Here are 10 additional webinar topics focused on felt needs for those open to church:

1. Battling Addition and Unhealthy Habits

• Points: Sources of addiction, steps to freedom, support systems
• Group: Stories of overcoming and mutual accountability
• Sermon Series: “Breaking Free”

1. Building Healthy Friendships

• Points: Identifying goodness of fit, being a friend, boundaries
• Group: Sharing friendship joys and challenges
• Sermon Series: “Community Matters”

1. Overcoming Worry and Fear

• Points: Identifying triggers, faith over fear, finding peace
• Group: Praying for and encouraging one another
• Sermon Series: “Have No Fear”

1. Creating Healthy Rhythms and Routines

• Points: Balance, margin, simplicity, rest
• Group: Sharing best practices and motivation
• Sermon Series: “The Good Life”

1. Cooking Healthy, Affordable Meals

• Points: Meal planning, staples, budgeting, shortcuts
• Group: Recipe sharing and cooking tips
• Sermon Series: “Honoring God with Your Body”

1. Decluttering Your Home and Schedule

• Points: Assessing excess, simplifying, creating margins
• Group: Decluttering inspiration and accountability
• Sermon Series: “The Fruit of Simplicity”

1. Mastering Workplace Challenges

• Points: Relating well, ethical dilemmas, career growth
• Group: Affirming shared experiences and wisdom
• Sermon Series: “Work As Worship”

1. Creating a Warm, Inviting Home

• Points: Hospitality, spaces that uplift, welcoming guests
• Group: Home tour ideas and inspiration
• Sermon Series: “Celebrating Community”

1. Planning Fun Family Activities

• Points: Adventure, learning, service, rituals and traditions
• Group: Sharing favorite family experiences
• Sermon Series: “Strengthening Family Bonds”

1. Pursuing Physical Fitness

• Points: Exercise, sports, rest, nutrition
• Group: Sharing motivations and favorite activities
• Sermon Series: “Treasures of Health”

The goal remains meeting practical felt needs first through the webinars and groups, establishing relevancy and relationship before transitioning into spiritual topics.

Expound on your fundraising plan. Be comprehensive and detailed, explain your why

Here is an expanded overview of a comprehensive fundraising plan for the new church plant:

Phase 1 – Core Team Giving (Months 1-6)

• Cast vision to core team and ask for startup pledges towards $100k goal
• Send regular email updates on progress to spur further giving
• Ask for introductions to their networks that may have capacity to give large gifts
• Arrange face-to-face meetings with key prospective large donors to share vision
• Utilize matching grant opportunities to incentivize core team giving

Phase 2 – Grants (Months 3-12)

• Research denominational and church planting networks for potential grants
• Build relationships with key leaders in these organizations
• Submit high-quality grant proposals aligned to their focus and priorities
• Follow up persistently to seek approval decisions

Phase 3 – Special Events (Months 6-12)

• Plan a preview service and fundraising dinner 6 months out from launch
• Recruit business owners to donate catering, space, decorations
• Promote event and sell seats to raise funds
• Share stories at dinner of lives changed through new churches

Phase 4 – Crowdfunding (Months 9-12)

• Produce high-quality video communicating vision and needs
• Launch crowdfunding campaign through a platform like Kickstarter
• Promote through social media and existing networks
• Offer perks for different giving levels – shirts, mugs, donor wall etc.

Phase 5 – Ongoing Giving (Month 12+)

• Set up online giving platforms and text giving options
• Communicate needs and stories of impact on a regular basis
• Invite givers to services and events to maintain connection
• Send handwritten notes thanking donors for their partnership

Seeking both large lead gifts and grassroots community buy-in throughout the fundraising journey allows for the greatest chance of meeting budget needs.

I am your advisor. Ask me anything that would help you in planting your church

Thank you for offering your guidance and expertise! Here are some key questions I would love your insight on as I plant this new church:

1. What are one or two biggest pitfalls or mistakes you’ve seen other church plants make that I should be careful to avoid?
2. How can I best identify, equip, and empower leaders within the new congregation to share the workload and grow the ministry? What leadership pipeline models have you found most effective?
3. How would you advise balancing my time as the lead pastor between administrative tasks, sermon prep, outreach, discipleship, and self-care? What time management principles work best for planting pastors?
4. What are your best tips for consistently reaching new people and integrating them into the life of the church in a region with few existing believers? How can I mobilize attendees to reach their networks?
5. When is the right time to consider launching additional locations or services? What key indicators or benchmarks should I look for? How do I maintain culture and vision across multiple sites?
6. What are your top recommendations for stewarding the generous financial support we receive well and maintaining givers’ confidence? How much reporting do you suggest?
7. Do you have any recommended resources – books, podcasts, mentors – that were particularly helpful for you or other planters you’ve walked with?
8. How can I stay spiritually, emotionally, and physically healthy amidst the demands of planting? What self-care routines do you encourage planters to build?

I want to tap into your wisdom and experience. Any guidance you can offer would be deeply appreciated! Please feel free to share any other insights that come to mind as well.

You are a seasoned church planter and pastor of more than 30 years. Answer the above questions in a thoughtful, and candor manner. Be honest and direct. Give your thoughts and reasons behind each answer. 

Here are my honest, direct thoughts and advice as an experienced church planting pastor:

1. The biggest pitfall I’ve seen is launching public services too soon before the foundations of leadership, culture, and systems are firmly in place. It’s tempting to get to Sundays as fast as possible, but rushing before you have the right people, culture, and structures leads to chaos. Take the extra 6-12 months to build in private. Launching strong is better than quick.
2. Leadership development has to be DNA of the church from day one. Create a 3-year leadership pipeline – identify potential leaders, equip them through mentoring cohorts focused on character and competency, and empower them to step into increasing responsibility. Be intentional about diversity in ethnicity, gender, age, and background in leadership. Developing indigenous leaders is essential for healthy reproduction and longevity.
3. Guard your calendar ruthlessly. Schedule in sermon prep and family time first before filling in other meetings and responsibilities. Block out a whole day for sermon planning and writing weekly. Protect a weekly date night and day off Sabbath for self-care. Be strategic about when you give energy to administrative tasks vs people development. Say no to most speaking invites in year one as you build the church.
4. In a non-Christian context, focus more on organic relationships than programs and events. Spend time in third places building trust. Equip people with stories of life change and invitations they can extend. Leverage online social networks for initial contacts. Develop clear next steps for interested seekers. Measure engagement not just attendance. Grow through disciples making disciples.
5. Expand only at the pace of leadership development. Add locations when you have cultivated associate campus pastors ready to lead new sites. Model and train for empowered leadership versus just cloning your personality. Maintain unified culture across sites through shared vision/values, collaborative leadership, and occasional combined gatherings. Slow growth is better than fast.
6. Over-communicate with donors. Share stories of specific impact frequently. Personally call first-time givers. Have board review major expenditures. Conduct annual audits. Focus reports on outcomes not financial details. Show stewardship of their trust funds above a certain level. Radical transparency builds confidence.
7. Two books that shaped me are The Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren on strategic ministry philosophy and Called to Awaken the Laity by Sundo Kim on developing grassroots leaders. Find some mentors outside your denomination to challenge assumptions. Visit innovative churches whenever possible.
8. Protect a weekly Sabbath, ideally on Monday to refill after pouring out on Sunday. Get regular exercise and eat healthy. Read Scripture for yourself before preparing sermons. Have a small group unrelated to church for friendship. Take all your vacation days. Surround yourself with encouragers not complainers.

Let me know if you would like me to expand on any area! I’m happy to provide any insights gained from many lessons learned over the years. The goal is to help you start strong and thrive long-term. Please don’t hesitate to reach out as you continue on this journey.

Use everything we’ve talked about to rewrite your launch plan. Be more specific and detailed then your first try. 

Here is an expanded 15-month launch plan for the new church plant incorporating everything we’ve discussed:

Phase 1 – Advance Preparations (Months 1-6)

• Build a core team of 25-30 people aligned with the vision to reach the South Shore through on-ramps of genuine community, applied biblical teaching, and outreach to real needs. This team will be the foundation for our leadership pipeline.
• Refine our values, vision, and one-year goals with core team input. Articulate our biblical doctrines and philosophy of ministry in our guiding documents.
• Create our 3-year discipleship roadmap and leadership development pipeline. Design engaging courses on foundational Christian topics for seekers and new believers.
• Conduct demographic research on the South Shore. Who are the groups we need to reach – Dones, Dechurched, Digital natives, single parents? What community issues need addressing?
• Start building relationships with key leaders and organizations in the community. Identify potential partnerships for future outreach endeavors.
• Develop and test our systems for assimilating new attendees, engaging volunteers, stimulating spiritual growth, and efficient administration. Establish our management structure and prepare operating policies.
• Begin fundraising toward our $150,000 startup budget goal through core team pledges, special events, and church planting network grants. Tell stories of transformed lives.
• Scout potential venues for our preview services and weekly gatherings once launched.

Phase 2 – Marketing and Events (Months 6-12)

• Create the online presence – website, social media, email list – to build awareness and interest in the South Shore. Share stories of lives changed through Christ. Offer free resources for seekers.
• Host regular outreach events previewing our vision and values in arts, service, and family fun. Make new friends with no obligations.
• Distribute marketing materials – social media ads, direct mailers, yard signs – to invite the community to preview services. Focus on the dechurched and spiritually curious.
• Leverage relationships with local leaders/organizations to spread awareness. Offer to share our vision for the community.
• Hold quarterly preview services to gain momentum and gather launch team. Share stories of transformed lives. Provide next steps to get involved.

Phase 3 – Launch Public Services (Months 12-15)

• Host a large launch weekend preview service inviting the community. Create energy and buzz.
• Begin weekly Sunday services at our rented facility. Ensure excellence in music, preaching, children’s ministry.
• Welcome newcomers warmly. Provide info on getting connected in groups, serving, and next steps in their spiritual journey.
• Offer engaging classes for seekers on topics like Evidence for God, Meeting Jesus, and Kingdom Life.
• Start small groups for in-depth community and support. Discuss Sunday messages.
• Develop new leaders by identifying potential, equipping consistently, and empowering strategically over time.
• Celebrate every life changed through Christ! Adjust systems and staffing structures as needed after launch.

The goal is building a healthy church poised for impact – not an event we call a launch. With deliberate preparations, we can plant the gospel in the South Shore for generations to come.

Use this plan to make a 15 page prospectus. This will be used as a tool to help you cast vision using compelling stories and stats. It will also be read by potential large donors so make sure it conveys that they can trust you and your plan. For each page provide any image or chart descriptions.

Here is a 15-page prospectus to cast vision for the new church plant:

Page 1 – Title Page South Shore Community Church: Reaching the South Shore for Christ

Page 2 – Our Vision Full page image of diverse, multi-generational crowd worshipping together.

Our vision is to see the gospel change hearts and lives across the South Shore through a church committed to dynamic biblical teaching, life-giving community, and serving others in love.

Page 3 – The Need Pie chart showing religious makeup of the region – nearly 50% are religiously unaffiliated “nones”.

Tens of thousands in our area lack a meaningful connection to God. Many are burned out on religion but open to genuine community and answers to life’s deeper questions. The South Shore needs a loving church that meets real needs and introduces people to Christ’s life-changing love in a thoughtful, relevant way.

Page 4 – Our Values Graphic representing each value:

1. Biblically-centered
2. Culturally-relevant
3. Community-focused
4. Outreach-oriented
5. Family-friendly

These core values shape every aspect of our ministry approach as we seek to reach people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Page 5 – Our Strategy Infographic showing multi-pronged approach:

• Authentic worship services
• Small groups for community
• Courses for spiritual growth
• Local outreach partnerships
• Creating online connection points
• Leadership development pipeline

Utilizing multiple on-ramps focused on real relationships, life change, and serving others.

Page 6 Testimony 1: First-person story of individual whose life was transformed through a church like the one we are planting.

Page 7 Testimony 2: Another illustrative story of life change- overcoming addictions, finding purpose, repairing marriage, etc. through the love of Christ.

Page 8 – Leadership Photos and bios of lead pastor and other key team members highlighting relevant ministry experience.

Page 9 – The Plan Timeline overview of our strategic 15-month launch process covering start-up preparations, systems development, marketing/events, and the public launch. Demonstrates thoughtfulness.

Page 10 – Partnership Opportunity Chart showing startup budget needs including staffing, marketing, technology, community expenses. Not excessive but sufficient.

Your generous support can help us meet tangible needs to plant this gospel-centered church. You are investing in transformed lives across the South Shore region.

Page 11 Graphic of a crowd enjoying community with text: This is not just a church plant… it’s a community being built.

Page 12
Testimony 3: Story of life change from a church plant setting – overcoming depression, finding hope in Christ, learning to serve others.

Page 13 – Get Involved Ways to engage: Join the launch team, follow us on social media, attend a preview event, give financially, and pray.

Page 14 – Our Team Half page photos of launch team – representing diversity in age, ethnicity, family status. Communicate excitement, commitment and capability.

Page 15 – Contact us Full page with lead pastor’s contact info, church website, social media links. Photo of pastor and family.

Thank you for your interest! Please contact us anytime.

Now act as an expert fund raiser. Give constructive feedback, be detailed and explain your reasoning. After you have received this feedback go back and rewrite your prospectus.

Thank you for allowing me to review this church planting prospectus. Here is some constructive feedback from a fundraising perspective:

Overall the prospectus does a nice job casting vision and introducing the church plant. The stories help make an emotional connection. To further improve it, I would suggest:

• Lead with the most compelling story/testimony on page 2 or 3 to hook the reader initially and show the impact potential. The timeline could come later.
• Expand on demographic details and community context to show strategic understanding of the target area. Help readers visualize it.
• Incorporate more specific metrics into the strategy section – projected attendees, small groups, volunteers engaged in first 1-3 years. This creates confidence in the thoughtfulness of the plan.
• Talk more about the leadership development pipeline. Highlight how you’ll identify and equip new leaders from within the church. This demonstrates long-term sustainability.
• Elaborate more on stewardship plans for finances – reporting, oversight, audit process. This provides reassurance for potential donors.
• Share 1-2 sentences about key team members rather than just photos. Helps make further personal connections.
• Use direct appeal language about partnership opportunity. Cast vision for their specific role in what God is doing through their giving.

Overall it’s a strong start. With a few additional details on strategy, leadership development, stewardship, and community context, I think it will further resonate with potential supporters. Please let me know if you would like me to clarify or expand on any of these suggestions. I’m happy to assist as you continue refining it!

Use this feedback and rewrite your prospectus

Here is a rewritten 15-page prospectus incorporating the helpful feedback provided:

Page 1 – Title Page (Same)

Page 2 – Maria’s Story Photo of smiling mother and child with text: After leaving an abusive marriage, Maria was depressed and alone. She never imagined church could become her lifeline. But at a new church plant near her, Maria found unconditional love, a community she could depend on, and most importantly faith and hope in Christ. “I don’t know where my daughter and I would be without this church,” she says.

Page 3 – The Need in South Shore
Stats on depression, domestic violence, poverty, single parents in the area. Nearly 50% unchurched. People need community and hope.

Page 4 – Our Vision
(Same)

Page 5 – Values
(Same)

Page 6 – Ministry Strategy Bullet points specifying projected growth in worship attendance, small groups, leadership team size, and community partnerships in first 3 years. Shows measurable goals.

Page 7 – Leadership Pipeline Overview of identifying emerging leaders, equipping through training cohorts, and empowering them over time through strategic opportunities. Developing homegrown leaders is essential.

Page 8 – Stewardship & Accountability Summary of financial controls – oversight board, annual third-party audits, regular reporting to donors. Ensuring trustworthiness.

Page 9 – Meet Our Team Photos, testimonies and brief bios of lead pastor, worship leader, community life director, showing their heart and capabilities.

Page 10 – The Plan (Same)

Page 11 – Partnership Opportunity
(Same)

Page 12 – Building Community (Same)

Page 13 – Carlos’ Story Testimony of finding hope and healing from addiction through Christ at a local church plant.

Page 14 – Get Involved (Same)

Page 15 – Contact Us (Same)

Thank you for your feedback to strengthen this prospectus! Please let me know if you have any other suggestions.

Use everything we have talked about and create a 12 month residency program for planting churches like this one. The residents will be working other job full time so be mindful of their time constraints. Be sure to include one major project they must accomplish each month. Each project must include a book to read about the topic, an interview they must conduct, a report they must write. At the end of the residency they should be able to compile their projects into a lunch plan like you created.

Here is a proposed 12-month church planting residency program for working professionals:

Month 1 – Vision Casting Project: Write vision/values for your church plant Book: Visioneering by Andy Stanley Interview: Church planter who effectively casted vision

Month 2 – Context and Strategy Project: Demographic study for your target community
Book: The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert Coleman Interview: Local community leader in your area

Month 3 – Evangelism and Outreach Project: Develop year 1 outreach strategy Book: Just Walk Across the Room by Bill Hybels Interview: Leader at successful outreach ministry

Month 4 – Team Building Project: Recruit and build a launch team Book: Start with Why by Simon Sinek Interview: Coach on building high-capacity teams

Month 5 – Systems Development Project: Create assimilation, follow-up, and discipleship systems Book: Sustainable Young Adult Ministry by Mark DeVries Interview: Church leader known for excellent systems

Month 6 – Leadership Pipeline
Project: Design leadership development process Book: Developing the Leaders Around You by John Maxwell Interview: Pastor with successful leadership pipeline

Month 7 – Ministry Finance Project: Create startup budget and fundraising plan Book: Generous Church by Brian Kluth Interview: Church planter good at fundraising

Month 8 – Legal Matters Project: Research legal issues – nonprofit status, bylaws etc. Book: Church Law by Richard Hammar Interview: Lawyer familiar with church law

Month 9 – Location/Facilities Project: Find and secure location for launch services Book: Ten Most Common Mistakes Made by New Church Starts by Charles Ridley Interview: Pastor who launched in an affordable facility

Month 10 – Raising Awareness Project: Create marketing/communications plan Book: Marketing the Church by Brig Hart Interview: Specialist in church communications

Month 11 – Launch Prep Project: Finalize and test all systems for launch Book: Advanced Strategic Planning by Aubrey Malphurs Interview: Recent church plant pastor

Month 12 – Adaptive Leadership Project: Write reflections on key leadership lessons learned Book: Leading Change by John Kotter Interview: Seasoned pastor on maintaining health amid change

At the end, residents compile projects into a comprehensive plan.

Critique work residency program. Be specific and harsh

Thank you for the opportunity to improve this residency program. Here is some candid critique and feedback:

• The scope may be too broad for a part-time program. Should narrow focus to the most essential competencies.
• Monthly projects are too big in scope. Break key projects down into smaller milestones over 2-3 months.
• Too theoretical. Need more field work like conducting demographic research or creating social media campaigns.
• Light on spiritual development. Add readings and practices for personal growth not just skills.
• Interviews and books too tactical. Include more leadership principles and change management theory.
• Needs group peer learning. Add monthly cohort discussions to process learnings together.
• Program is too rigid. Should allow some customization of projects based on residents’ strengths and interests.
• Needs more emphasis on self-leadership. Add personal health, emotional intelligence, self-care components.
• Doesn’t develop teaching/preaching skills. Add instructional design and communication training.
• Needs to incorporate ongoing mentor coaching for accountability and support.
• Culminating launch plan may be an overwhelming final assignment. Needs more scaffolding.
• Little focus on family/marriage health. Add resources to protect relationships under stress.

In summary, the program has helpful aspects but needs more focus on customization, leadership principles, spiritual/self-care, and group cohort learning for maximum impact. I’d be happy to brainstorm further ways to enhance it!

Use this critique and create another 12 month residency program that is better and includes all of this feedback. 

Here is a revised 12-month church planting residency program incorporating the helpful critique provided:

Program Overview:

This revised program provides a blend of practical ministry skills and leadership development with an emphasis on spiritual formation and self-care. Residents will learn critical competencies through field experience, cohort discussions, readings, and mentoring. Monthly meetings facilitate peer learning and processing key insights together. The program can be customized based on each resident’s passions and strengths for maximum relevance. Family/marriage health principles are woven throughout.

Month 1 – Calling and Vision

• Field Project: Interview 5 leaders about their calling and vision development process
• Reading: The Call by Os Guinness
• Cohort Discussion: Our sense of calling to plant
• Personal Growth Focus: Spiritual retreat to seek God’s vision

Month 2 – Team Building

• Field Project: Meet potential core team members and assess readiness
• Reading: Start with Why by Simon Sinek
• Cohort Discussion: Building a team unified by purpose
• Personal Growth Focus: Personality test and interactions style assessment

Month 3 – Contextualization

• Field Project: Demographic study of target community
• Reading: Letters to a Birmingham Jail by Paul Marshall
• Cohort Discussion: Cultural exegesis skills
• Personal Growth Focus: Self-care plan check-in

Month 4 – Outreach & Evangelism

• Field Project: Visit 3 innovative outreach ministries
• Reading: Fusion by Nelson Searcy
• Cohort Discussion: Community service project post-mortem
• Personal Growth Focus: Share testimony workshop

Month 5 – Teaching & Communication

• Field Project: Observe preaching clinic and give mini-message
• Reading: Communicating for a Change by Andy Stanley
• Cohort Discussion: Providing teaching feedback to others
• Personal Growth Focus: Learning style assessment

Month 6 – Strategic Planning

• Field Project: One-day ministry strategy retreat
• Reading: Advanced Strategic Planning by Aubrey Malphurs
• Cohort Discussion: Case studies in strategic ministry dilemmas
• Personal Growth Focus: Time management analysis

Month 7 – Leadership Pipeline

• Field Project: Interview 5 potential new leaders
• Reading: Developing the Leaders Around You by John Maxwell
• Cohort Discussion: Pipeline development stories from experienced planters
• Personal Growth Focus: Relational health assessment

Month 8 – Generosity & Stewardship

• Field Project: Interview 3 pastors on funding models
• Reading: Ten Financial Principles from the Bible by Compass Group
• Cohort Discussion: Biblical perspectives on generosity and stewardship
• Personal Growth Focus: Money values and spending reflection

Month 9 – Legal Matters

• Field Project: Consult lawyer on business considerations
• Reading: Church Law by Richard Hammar
• Cohort Discussion: Experienced planters share legal lessons learned
• Personal Growth Focus: Assessing work-life boundaries

Month 10 – Facilities & Staffing

• Field Project: Evaluate 3 potential worship gathering spaces
• Reading: Ten Most Common Mistakes Made by New Church Starts by Charles Ridley
• Cohort Discussion: Leveraging facilities and technology
• Personal Growth Focus: Sabbath practice reflection

Month 11 – Raising Awareness

• Field Project: Develop communications plan
• Reading: Marketing the Church by Brig Hart
• Cohort Discussion: Case studies in church communications
• Personal Growth Focus: Spiritual gifts assessment

Month 12 – Adaptive Leadership

• Field Project: Interview 5 veteran pastors on insights gained
• Reading: Leading Change by John Kotter
• Cohort Discussion: Managing launch challenges
• Personal Growth Focus: Leadership health evaluation

Let me know if you would like me to expand on any aspects of this revised residency program outline. Thank you again for the feedback to strengthen it!

Your are an expert church planter. Critique this program and tell us what we’re missing and how we can make it better.

Thank you for allowing me to review this residency program. As an experienced church planter, here are some suggestions to further strengthen the program:

• Add more hands-on ministry opportunities like leading Bible studies, coordinating services, delivering sermons – let residents gain practical experience and skills.
• Incorporate coaching/mentoring throughout the program, not just at the end. Residents need consistent support. Assign formal mentors.
• Build in more emphasis on personal spiritual development – Bible study, prayer, fasting, spiritual retreats. Leadership flows from intimacy with God.
• Allow flexibility for residents to follow unique ministry passions, reduce some standardized requirements. Customize based on calling and gifting.
• Provide training on pastoral care – weddings, funerals, counseling. Many overlook these critical areas of shepherding.
• Include conflict resolution, change management, and communication modules. Leadership requires these soft skills.
• Teach storytelling principles – resonating with today’s culture requires narrative gifts.
• Add field exposure to church administration – budgets, policies, management. Avoid leadership/administration gaps.
• Bring in dynamic guest faculty like sociologists, technology experts, therapists – expand perspectives.
• Build a shared library of articles, books, and videos residents collectively contribute to and learn from.
• Form residents into peer coaching groups to supplement advisor mentoring.
• Allow wives/husbands to attend the monthly training days – refreshing for couples in the challenging planting journey.
• Provide post-residency follow-up like quarterly network gatherings, continuing education opportunities.

The program has a thoughtful balance but can go deeper in spiritual formation, customized experiences, pastoral skills, and leadership development. Excited to brainstorm further!

Use this critique and create a residency program that is better and includes all of this feedback. 

Here is a revised church planting residency program incorporating the excellent critique and suggestions provided:

Program Overview:

This 12-month residency develops the practical skills, leadership capabilities, and spiritual depth essential for church planting. Customizable ministry experiences, hands-on projects, peer/mentor development, and leadership training equip residents for the unique challenges of launching new churches. Spouses are welcome to attend the monthly cohort days. Post-residency support continues through quarterly network gatherings and ongoing education.

Month 1 – Spiritual Foundations

• Field experience: Maintain a 4-day personal spiritual retreat
• Readings: Sacred Pathways by Gary Thomas, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero
• Cohort focus: Spiritual practices, hearing God’s voice
• Guest faculty: Spiritual director

Month 2 – Calling & Vision

• Field experience: Interview 5 diverse ministry leaders on their vision journey
• Readings: The Call by Os Guinness, Visioneering by Andy Stanley
• Cohort focus: Discerning and developing God’s vision
• Guest faculty: Leadership consultant

Month 3 – Self-Leadership

• Field experience: Take discipleship assessment and develop growth plan
• Readings: Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud, Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro
• Cohort focus: Growth plan check-in, work-life rhythms
• Guest faculty: Leadership psychologist

Month 4 – Team Development

• Field experience: Evaluate spiritual gifts and strengths of core group
• Readings: Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller, Start With Why by Simon Sinek
• Cohort focus: Forming a complementary planting team
• Guest faculty: Organizational behavior professor

Month 5 – Outreach & Evangelism

• Field experience: Participate in a local mercy ministry service day
• Readings: To Give or Not to Give by Cliff Zych, Just Walk Across the Room by Bill Hybels
• Cohort focus: Community exegesis and outreach
• Guest faculty: Urban ministry leader

Month 6 – Pastoral Skills

• Field experience: Perform a wedding, funeral, baptism
• Readings: Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster, The Peacemaker by Ken Sande
• Cohort focus: Weddings, funerals, counseling
• Guest faculty: Experienced pastor

Month 7 – Communication & Storytelling

• Field experience: Deliver 5 devotionals and get feedback
• Readings: Communicating for a Change by Andy Stanley, The Story Factor by Annette Simmons
• Cohort focus: Resonating with today’s culture through narrative
• Guest faculty: Communication expert

Month 8 – Ministry Strategy

• Field experience: One-day strategic planning retreat
• Readings: Advanced Strategic Planning by Malphurs, Deep and Wide by Andy Stanley
• Cohort focus: Case study analysis of ministry plans
• Guest faculty: Leadership consultant

Month 9 – Leadership Pipeline

• Field experience: Interview 5 potential emerging leaders
• Readings: Developing the Leaders Around You by John Maxwell, Sticky Teams by Larry Osborne
• Cohort focus: Leadership pipeline experiences in different models
• Guest faculty: Leadership development coach

Month 10 – Generosity & Stewardship

• Field experience: Review 3 churches’ giving strategies
• Readings: Ten Financial Principles from the Bible, Generous Church by Brian Kluth
• Cohort focus: Instilling culture of Biblical generosity
• Guest faculty: Stewardship pastor

Month 11 – Administration & Management

• Field experience: Interview church administrator
• Readings: Church Law by Richard Hammar, Confessions of a Church Planter by Kevin Myers
• Cohort focus: Administration roles, church finances, policies
• Guest faculty: Experienced executive pastor

Month 12 – Adaptive Leadership

• Field experience: Interview 5 veteran pastors on leadership principles learned
• Readings: Leading Change by John Kotter, Resilient Ministry by Burns, Chapman, Guthrie
• Cohort focus: Managing launch challenges, sticky situations
• Guest faculty: Leadership psychologist

Let me know if you would like me to expand on any aspect of this revised residency program. I appreciate all the insightful feedback to strengthen it!

Create an additional resource list that expand on the themes in the is residency

Here is an additional resource list to supplement the key themes in the church planting residency program:

Spiritual Formation:

• The Normal Christian Life by Watchman Nee
• Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton
• Prayer by Tim Keller
• The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard

Vision & Calling:

• The Road Best Traveled by John Maxwell
• Walking with God by John Eldredge
• The Unstuck Church by Tony Morgan

Team Development:

• Leading from Your Strengths by Gallup
• Leading Healthy, Growing, Multiplying Small Groups by Rod Dempsey
• S.H.A.P.E. by Erik Rees

Evangelism & Outreach:

• Evangelism Handbook by Alvin Reid
• Exponential by Dave Ferguson
• Share Jesus Without Fear by William Fay

Preaching & Communication:

• Biblical Preaching by Haddon Robinson
• Preaching by Tim Keller
• Resonate by Nancy Duarte

Strategy:

• Simple Church by Thom Rainer
• Lasting Impact by Carey Nieuwhof
• Contagious Disciple-Making by David & Paul Watson

Leadership Development:

• Next Generation Leader by Andy Stanley
• Cultivating Genius by Michaels & Johnson
• Winning With People by John Maxwell

Generosity & Stewardship:

• Ask by Steve Shadrach
• The Grace of Giving by Stephen Olford
• Not Your Parents’ Offering Plate by J. Clif Christopher

Management & Administration:

• Managing the Church by Richards & Hoeldtke
• Developing an Effective Church Leader Development Process by Kenneth Gangel
• Boards That Work by RAMSEY

Leadership:

• Spiritual Leadership by Oswald Sanders
• Turn the Ship Around by David Marquet
• Leadership Agility by Ron Meyer

Let me know if you would like me to suggest additional readings on any specific topics!

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