A couple FAQs

After I posted about our trip to Fort Wayne, it occurred to me to answer just a couple FAQs:

• When are you moving to Fort Wayne?

We don't have a hard date yet, but likely the last week of February.

• Aren't you going to finish your masters?

Working on it today! I have three classes left that I will complete by April. Then I only have my thesis to complete before I graduate in December.

• Why another church?

Because it's needed! Less than a third of people in Fort Wayne are actively involved in the Christian faith. Our church will not be focused on people who already follow Christ- but on those who have yet to commit to him.

• What do the boys think?

They are thrilled- Daniel especially. Daniel and Aidan even understand the mission somewhat. (It is a great test of my communication abilities to explain evangelistic chruch planting to a 4 and 6 year old).

• How will you fund it?

With your help! We will ask our Launch Team to begin giving in the near future. We are looking for two years of financial support from churches as well as individuals who understand the need. We are working up a 'start up budget' (monies and things we need to start) and a regular budget.

• What do the local churches think about your coming?

Eveyone has been helpful. We look forward to building bridges in pratcial and meaningful ways as we link arms with them for the cause of Jesus Christ.

• What's the goal?

Simply put, our goal in the first 3 years is to lead about 200 people within young families to follow Christ who do not follow him now. We will spend huge amounts of money and effort and prayer to this end.

After three years, we will launch a new church who will follow a similar pattern. Thus, at year 6, there are two additional churches launched (for a total of 4) and at year 9-10 an additional 4 (for a total of 8).

• When do you plan to buy land and build your building?

We don't. Instead of spending tens of thousands of dollars on a mortgage, we would like to spend much less to rent a facility and use the excess to fund efforts to reach the lost, care for the broken locally, and bless the poor overseas.

• Who can join you?

Anyone who is willing to get their hands dirty for Christ. This ain't a country club. It ain't about me or you. It's not even just about God. It is about God and us advancing his agenda of love into people's lives.

• Will you be a 'Christian Church'?

Yes, we will be a church that follows Christ. However, we aren't unduly committed to any specific expression of Christianity.

• What will your worship service look like?

It will be simple. It will be engaging. It will not have laser lights and fog machines. Either literally or figuratively it will be a group of adults sitting at round tables discovering together what it means to love God in this world.