Best Case Timeline

Whether you have a launch team, core group or a couple of families I'd suggest you back off a little on starting services and suggest starting here.  This process creates a sense of anticipation and excitement about a new church start.

I. First 4 to 5 months: Distribute Fliers & Gather People - Best case when NOT already living in target area.

        1.  Complete web site and establish cell phone for voice mail before starting.

        2. Distribute fliers not necessarily speaking to people - have them make contact first 

                because it shows interest on their part. 

        3. Prayer Walks as you grow your team.

        4. Keep making relational connections every month you come to visit...contact the

             contacts!

II. Two Informational Meetings: Visiting Contacts, Networking, and Set Direction

Secure a place to meet for 200 people; can use another meeting place for informational meetings; recommend not using homes.

        1st informational meeting:  Cast Vision, explain ethos and EFCA connections and

                 commitments.  You do not want any surprises in the processes.  Invite back in two to

                 three weeks; then visit people that came out inviting them to stay with the new vision and

                 church.

        2nd informational meeting: Cast vision, explain timeline, present values and process for

               disciple making.  Must answer the question, "why another church is needed?"  What

               makes you different then other churches?  Answer the "what's and where's!"

III. Training Services: Casting Vision & Foundational Truths (8 to 12 weeks)

        1. Teach Values for understanding

        2. Begin gathering events by fun events.

        3. Begin light worship when you meet weekly

        4. Define critical ministries

        5. People encouraged to invite

        6.  Talk about Mission often!

        7. Explain process for making disciples - what is your defined pathway?

        8. Equip attendees to function with the pathway toward reproducing their lives.

IV.  Preview Services: Relational Networking & Establishing Ministry Activities (6 to 9 months)

        1. Ministries develop and in place.

        2. Weekly or monthly preview services but meet every week on Sunday morning.  Lost

             people believe church is Sunday morning.

        3. Continue flier distribution, prayer walks, and people continue inviting people.

        4. Ongoing fun events for gathering.

V.  Public Launch: Launching & announcing the new church

        1. Begin to work the plan and pathway continuing and seeing lives transformed.

        2. Continue gathering and connecting events. Have fun!

        3. Make sure the pastor/planter is delegating and releasing others to "do" ministry

            as God leads them.

               (Public Launch let's the community know you are here.  Continuing to develop ministries & Develop People through Disciple Making Pathway)