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3 Contents W e l c o m e!... 1 CP&D Mission... 1 CP&D Values... 1 CP&D Goals... 1 W h a t i s a C h u r c h P l a n t?... 2 W h a t d o e s i t t a k e t o b e a c h u r c h p l a n t e r?... 3 Twenty Questions You Should Ask Yourself before Considering Starting a Church... 4 S t e p s t o P l a n t i n g a C h u r c h i n t h e N o r t h T e x a s D i s t r i c t... 5 Application Process... 5 Pre-Launch Development Process... 7 Assessment Process... 8 Coaching Process Church Planter Application A d d e n d u m s Parent Affiliated Churches Definitions Pre-Launch Strategies Check List for Launch Sunday Steps To Connect with Guests Fundraising Strategies Sample CP&D Church Fundraising Letter Sample CP&D Church Fundraising Facts Sample Tithing Letter Landmines in Church Planting S A M P L E F O R M S : A c t u a l f o r m s a v a i l a b l e f r o m C P & D Suggested Constitution and Bylaws Certificate of Formation General Council New Church Opened Form Parent Affiliated Church (PAC) Charter Application District Affiliated Church Planter s Monthly Report NTD CP&D Financial Partnership Agreement Coaching Agreement MX9 Application STL Church Grant Application Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Parent Church Sample Checklist for the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding Checklist for the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding (PAC/GC Church) Church Planting and Development Department ~ 3 ~

4 Welcome! The purpose of this manual is to provide you with all the basic information you will need to complete the approval process for planting a church in the. Please take the time to carefully read through the entire manual. Every step in the process is designed to help you lay a firm foundation for a healthy, reproducing church. If at any time you are unsure of how to proceed, please know that the Church Planting & Development department (CP&D) personnel stand ready and eager to assist you. You may contact us by phone at (817) or by at cpd@northtexas.org. Visit us on the Web at We look forward to partnering with you as you answer God s call to reach North Texas for the Kingdom of God. CP&D Mission To facilitate the North Texas District s efforts in planting new churches and to the health of existing churches; equipping leaders; evaluating the health of churches and new church plants on a consistent basis; and assisting in the implementation of positive change in such a way that the results will impact the district, the nation, and the world for the cause of Christ. CP&D Values 1 We value new church planting as one of the most effective means of evangelism. 2 We value church facilities that reflect the health and ministry of the church. 3 We value the belief that healthy churches will reproduce themselves by developing pastors, missionaries, ministries, new churches and new resources. 4 We believe certain gifts and skills need to be developed before planting a church or bringing health to an existing church. 5 We believe past behaviors are the best predictors of future behaviors. 6 We value coaching relationships and interactive learning that facilitate effective ministry. 7 We value a team approach as the best approach to facilitate healthy churches. 8 We value the belief that development must be intentional. 9 We value the belief that resources need to be relevant and easily assessable. CP&D Goals The goal of the CP&D Division is to facilitate the natural path of multiplication, to partner with the section, pastors, and churches in a coordinated effort to bring all the resources of the district together in a unified and effective effort to produce 1000 healthy churches by To do this we must: 1 Discover and motivate healthy churches which can and should give birth to new churches. 2 Combine these churches with potential pastors for the new churches. (They may be part of the existing congregation or other individuals feeling the call to plant and who connect well with the birthing church.) 3 Facilitate the process of targeting a location and coordinating with the section and local community 4 Train both the planting church and the pastor/planting team of the new church (a combination of our traditional Boot Camp and other specially designed venues) 5 Establish a financial process that will allow the new church to succeed and the planting church to continue in its strength. This process must also provide for the perpetuation and continuing effectiveness of CP&D. 6 Supply everything at our disposal to the mother church and the new church to help ensure the health of both. ~ 1 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

5 What is a Church Plant? A Church Plant is any new church in the first three years of its existence that has not yet achieved General Council status. This designation applies to a church regardless of the method used to begin the church. This classification does not preclude a new church from achieving General Council status before its third birthday. Examples of a Church Plant: 1. And intentional separate congregation seeking to minister to the needs of an unchurched or de-churched culture, area or community 2. A video church meeting in different locations with a campus pastor in that particular location. 3. A church whose liability, pastoral leadership, budget, vision and mission are overseen by a General Council affiliated church. A church plant can be: A District Council Affiliated Church (DA) o o Partner church: A new church that has an existing General Council affiliated church partnering with the new plant to play a supportive role by giving significant financial support and/or by sending a team of people to help start the plant. Individual Church Plant: A new church that is birthed from the burden of an individual pastor or team for a specific community and is planted by their own labor and sacrifice. Often ICP churches will need staff to have secular employment to provide for personal and family financial needs until the church can provide financial support. o Leadership and supervision of DA church Plants: Pastor: Appointed for a two-year term by the sectional presbyter. The planting pastor is amenable to the officers of the section in which the new church is established, and the District CP&D director. As a member of the section the pastor is expected to faithfully lead the new church plant to participate in section and district ministry programs. Governing documents and board: The new church plant shall operate under the constitution and bylaws for district affiliated assemblies. As the official board of the church, sectional officers will provide supervisory guidance in the ongoing development of the church. This supervision will include, but is not limited to, approval of all financial agreements the church may desire to enter into that would result in obligating the assets and properties of the church. An advisory committee is encouraged for local leadership development, to be appointed by the pastor and ratified by the presbyter and committee. A Parent Church Affiliated Church (PAC) o o o A new church that is an outreach of-an existing General Council Affiliated Church or duly authorized District Council Affiliated Church resulting in a worshipping community with a congregational life distinct from the Parent Church (PC). A PAC is subject to the ecclesial supervision and authority of the PC, in such manner, and upon such terms and conditions, as are determined by the PC. The liability, pastoral leadership, budget, vision and mission are overseen by the parent church. See PARENT AFFILIATED CHURCHES DEFINITIONS in the addendum of this manual for specifics and the General Council criteria for PAC churches. Church Planting and Development Department ~ 2 ~

6 What does it take to be a church planter? First: A Communicator. You should be an exceptional communicator or you should reconsider your call to plant. This one thing stands out among all other gifts and abilities for those who are succeeding at planting a church. The people who have growing and thriving plants are exceptional communicators. There is no way around it. Those who are struggling in planting a church are below average in their communication skills. If you are a planter, preaching and communicating is your craft. You have to make it your passion every day. Preaching and communicating is everything in a church plant. Communication needs to happen on three levels: 1. One on one communication is necessary to create a buy in from individuals setting across a table from you at a Starbucks. 2. Small group communication is necessary to cast vision to your core team in a clear, understandable way so they can help share the vision and mission of your church plant 3. It is necessary to be extremely strong in preaching to crowds. If you struggle delivering your message, guests will not stick around long enough to know what a great pastor and person you are. Second: A Fundraiser. The second most important task of a church planter is fundraising. Let s face it; none of us enjoy asking for money. But if you are unable to raise money and ask people to believe in you, then church planting is probably not for you. The positive side of fundraising is that you have to cast vision in order to raise funds. This task prepares you to cast vision to people who are presently not in church. In a real sense, being able to raise money is the ability that is needed to plant a church. If you plant a church you will ultimately have to find land and build a building. Without sounding to fatalistic, you will be raising funds and teaching stewardship the rest of your life. Third: A Networker. You have to wake up every morning wanting to network and meet 10 new people that day. Every day becomes an opportunity to meet with new people and develop relational networks in the community where you are planting a church. People who are presently not going to church will only come if they have some relational connection with you or someone in this new church plant. At first you are the only person who is committed to attending the church plant every Sunday. Sounds almost crazy to say this out loud but it s true. Fourth: A Leader. You need to be an attractive leader. First be attractive spiritually. Maintain spiritual disciplines so those around you will say, that person has been with Jesus and I want to follow them as they follow Jesus. Secondly be an attractive leader. Develop leadership skills so potential workers will see you as a good leader and will want to get on board and work for you. Third, you must be culturally attractive. This is the leader that understands and is relevant to the culture of his/her community. A cutting edge leader will attract creative people that will want to be a part of his/her team and leadership. Finally, you need to be able to reach the unchurched. Church planting is not about church transfer; it is about reaching the lost. You must be able to create inroads to the lives of the unchurched and be willing to invest the time, effort, and energy that it takes to win them over. This will require getting outside the four walls of the church and meeting them on their turf. In the past people believed, then they belonged. However, there is a new culture trend. Now people need to belong before they believe. This means giving duties and tasks to new people to get them involved in the church so they belong and soon they believe. Accurate assessment of church planting potential is essential. Unless you really like pain and frustration, you do not want to attempt to plant a church unless you have been equipped, gifted and specifically called by God to do so! ~ 3 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

7 Twenty Questions You Should Ask Yourself before Considering Starting a Church CIRCLE YES OR NO YES - NO 1. Is my primary motivation for considering church planting a positive one (such as the glory of God and the salvation of people) and not dissatisfaction with my present situation? YES - NO 2. Do I believe that church planting is the primary God-ordained strategy by which He accomplishes His will, advances His kingdom and glorifies His name? YES - NO 3. Do I believe and experience the gospel as the "power of God" not only to save me from sin's penalty but also from sin's domineering power over my life? YES - NO 4. Do I share the gospel with non-believers on a regular basis, and can I point to people who have made professions of faith and are still walking with Christ as a result of my witness? YES - NO 5. Have I had enough exposure to church planting in a ministry focus group similar to what I am considering that I know what the life of a church planter is like? YES - NO 6. Am I assured of God's call on my life to church planting instead of being a pastor of a church? YES - NO 7. Do I have the experiences necessary needed to do church planting effectively? YES - NO 8. Can I articulate clearly what my gifts and personal characteristics are that would make me effective in church planting in the type community I'm considering? YES - NO 9. Is there objective evidence that I am comfortable relating well with unchurched people and able to accept them joyfully into my life and the community of faith? YES - NO 10. Is my spouse and family willing, even enthusiastic, about our doing church planting? YES - NO 11. Do I have a gospel-confidence (both lamb-like humility AND lion-like boldness) that, in light of my proven ministry experience, gifts, and skills, I will be effective in church planting? YES - NO 12. Do I have the spiritual disciplines (consistent personal worship, good accountability relationships) necessary for being a spiritual leader truly above reproach? YES - NO 13. Do I display self-management disciplines (getting work done on time, keeping commitments, consistency, honesty) that will encourage followers to trust my leadership? YES - NO 14. Have I developed a relatively comprehensive vision (values, mission, philosophy of ministries, gathering strategies, etc.) of the kind of church I want to plant? YES - NO 15. Am I considered a "people person", someone who is humble, a good listener, teachable, patient, sensitive, and winsome? YES - NO 16. Do people tend to sit up, listen and come back when I preach--giving evidence that my preaching and communication gifts are special strengths (above average)? YES - NO 17. Do spiritually wise, influential people in my life tell me that church planting is a right fit for me? YES - NO 18. Have I had a positive track record in the church ministries I have led--giving strong evidence of my ability both to lead people AND raise up leaders? YES - NO 19. Do I have a sincere passion for church planting? Is church planting compatible with my personal career goals or is it seen as merely a "stepping stone" to some other ministry in the future? YES - NO 20. Understanding the gifts and skills of a church planter usually include being a visionary leader, effective evangelist, and an above average Christ-centered preacher, do I have these endowments? Am I a Church Planter? If you answered 16 or more with a yes--probably so If you answered with a yes-think, pray and talk to others some more before moving in that direction Less than 10-possibly not Church Planting and Development Department ~ 4 ~

8 Steps to Planting a Church in the North Texas District Application Process Step 1. Step 2. Step 3. Step 4. Step 5. Contact CP&D Contact the Church Planting and Development (CP&D) Chair, Nova Pittman at to discuss the planting process. Contact Sectional Presbyter After talking with CP&D Chair, it is the responsibility of the church planter to contact the Sectional Presbyter of the section in which the church will be planted. The purpose of this meeting is to learn about the section and to make sure the section and the planter are in agreement regarding planting strategies for the desired area. Sectional Presbyter: Phone: Appointment Date: / / Time: Location: Complete Application Conact CP&D and they will send the forms to you via . Return by or mail forms to: NORTH TEXAS DISTRICT COUNCIL CHURCH PLANTING & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION PO BOX 1188 HURST, TX Include: Church Planting & Development Application, a current photo of you and your family, 2 preaching cd/dvd s, along with resume and references. CP&D Appointment to Discuss Application & Next Steps CP&D will contact you to schedule an appointment with CP&D Director to discuss Application and next steps. Appointment Date: / / Time: Location: Behavioral Assessment Interview The prospective church planter and spouse will undergo a Behavioral Assessment Interview. This interview will be conducted by trained assessors. The interview will take all day and requires both the church planter and spouse. Do not bring children to the interview. Church planter is responsible for providing for child care if needed. All fees for the assessment will be paid from the CP&D church planting funds. You will be contacted by the CP&D to set up the time and place for this interview. Assessment Date: / / Time: Location: ~ 5 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

9 Step 6. Step 7. Post Assessment Follow-Up Appointment CP&D will contact you for a post assessment interview to review the results of the assessment and to review proper procedures for the next steps as well as how to prepare a ministry plan. Appointment Date: / / Time: Location: Church Planting Boot Camp CP&D will assign a Church Planting Boot Camp for you to attend. Church Planting Boot Camp attendance by the planter and spouse is required. Do not bring children to the boot camp. Boot Camp will help you discover: What does God want to do? Who am I? What an I called to do? Who will do it with me? How will we do it? How will we evaluate our progress? Boot camp will guide you through the development of your Ministry Plan and Budget Boot Camp Date: / / to / / Location: Step 8. Step 9. Step 10. Ministry Plan and Budget Complete Ministry Plan and budget and mail or to CP&D office. Sectional Committee Interview The church planter and spouse, if married, must schedule and appear for an interview with the members of the Sectional Committee. Approval must be given by the Sectional Presbyter and Sectional Committee. The Sectional Presbyter will notify the CP&D Chair of the approval by submitting a Letter of Invitation to plant in the section. Sectional Committee Date: / / Time: Location: CP&D Board Meeting Upon approval of the Sectional Committee and receipt of the Letter of Invitation, the CP&D Division will schedule a meeting with the CP&D Board. The prospective planter and spouse, if married, will be interviewed by the CP&D Board to review the results of the Assessment, the Ministry Plan, and Budget. Following this interview, the members of the CP&D Board will determine whether it is appropriate to approve or deny the church plant application. The church planter will be promptly notified of their decision. The CP&D Board will notify the Executive Presbytery of their recommendation. Appointment Date: / / Time: Location: Step 11. Executive Presbytery Executive Presbytery to consider approval. Candidates to plant church Location of church plant Church Name Funding If approved you will receive open church status for pre-launch activities. Candidate not present for this meeting. Church Planting and Development Department ~ 6 ~

10 Pre-Launch Development Process Managed by CP&D Board in partnership with Planting Church/Sectional Board Step 13. Church Organization & Business Set-Up Once approved by the Executive Presbytery, CP&D will schedule an appointment for the initial pre-launch meeting to implement initial organization and assist/advise with the following steps. 1. Letter of Agreement 2. NTD Account # assigned so church can receive donations 3. Certificate of Formation for the state of Texas 4. Application for EIN/FIN # 5. Assumed Name Form (if applicable, planter will fill out at their County office) 6. Constitution and Bylaws 7. Recommended Risk Management Policies & procedures for volunteers 8. New Church Open Form 9. Copy issued of 501(c)3 from General Council 10. Pre-Launch Insurance (Paid by NTD) 11. Recommended Accounting Services 12. Coach Assignment/Information 13. CCLI contact information 14. Information about Sectional Committee oversight as Church Board, reporting forms, housing allowances, etc. 15. Discuss financial package 16. Financial Agreement Form Signed (check for understanding) Let us know if you would like any copies for your personal records. Step 14. Step 15. Step 17. Open Bank Account Church planter and Sectional Presbyter to meet to open bank account Both signatures required) Appointment Date: / / Time: Location: Sectional Committee Meeting Have meeting with the Sectional Committee to set housing allowance and to determine sectional reporting procedures Appointment Date: / / Time: Location: Coaching Strategy Meeting Strategic Development Meeting with Coach Appointment Date: / / Time: Location: ~ 7 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

11 Assessment Process Explanation of process and how to read the Report The comments and ratings on the report only reflect how the candidate profiles in comparison to the profile of a highly competent church planters. Therefore, a 3 (or average ) indicates that the candidate s competency is average as compared to a highly competent church planters, not in comparison to all ministers at large. It is possible that a 3 on the rating scale could be equal to a 5 for general ministry competency in that area. This report is best viewed as a tool to assist the candidate and the sending agency in the approval and resourcing process. The Assessment is an interview conducted by two trained assessors, one a certified lead assessor with a proven track record of objectivity and accuracy in identifying candidates ability to demonstrate the 13 characteristics in their past. The interview is done with both spouse and candidate. The assessment interview focuses on past behavior as a predictor of future performance. The candidates are asked to relate examples from their past that demonstrate the thirteen categories. The candidate must be able to effectively share 3 examples in each category from their past. 1. Visionizing Capacity 2. Intrinsic Motivation 3. Creating Ownership of Ministry 4. Reaching the Unchurched 5. Spousal Cooperation 6. Relationship Building 7. Commitment to Church Growth 8. Responsiveness to the Community 9. Utilizing the Giftedness of Others 10. Flexibility 11. Building Group Cohesion 12. Resilience 13. Exercises Faith The Assessment returns a composite score of a possibility of 5 points in each of the 13 areas. Within each of these 13 categories, there are several qualities that are looked at. The final score of each category is an average of these qualities. High: Medium: Low: The rating scale is as follows: Out of the 13 areas, seven should be considered as more critical than the others and are called Knock Outs. If a candidate does not prove a proficiency higher than a low score (>2.0) in these, they are not considered for pioneering at that point. The knock out categories are: Visioning Capacity Intrinsic Motivation Creating Ownership of Ministry Reaching the Unchurched Spousal Cooperation Relationship Building Exercises Faith It is not expected that any given candidate will prove highly effective in all 13 areas. The assessment will produce a report of the candidate s strengths and potential weaknesses that can be used for further development. The Assessment report should be broken down into the following sections: 1. Personal Information a. Tells who is being assessed; who is doing the assessment; the date of the assessment 2. Overview of Assets, Liabilities and Mixed Ratings a. Assets: Out of the 13 areas, any quality that is rated in the high category b. Liabilities: Out of the 13 areas, any quality that is rated in the low category c. Mixed Ratings: If there are qualities in any of the 13 areas that are separated by a rating of 1.5 or higher, they will be written as a mixed rating i. OR A mixed rating is one in which there are positive and negative aspects of the candidate s behavior within a category that need to be broken down in the report. 3. Conclusions a. A snapshot of the candidate, this paragraph brings the entire report together and should contain: i. An overall rating of the candidate ii. Summarized behavior features and their impact iii. A prediction of how the candidate will perform in a pioneering setting iv. Guidance for growth or development 4. Discussion of the 13 Fundamental Skills a. Numerical rating based on Rating Norms b. Paragraph summarizing each skill area. The report should touch on each of the qualities that were rated 5. Graphic Summary a. A visual summary of the candidate s ratings in the 13 areas Church Planting and Development Department ~ 8 ~

12 Assessment Process Thirteen Essential Qualities Explained QUALITY DESCRIPTION Looks for: 1. Visionizing Capacity "Generates vision, initiates plans and builds SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS from the ground floor up." Tasks built from scratch 2. Intrinsic Motivation "Demonstrates the ability to be a self-starter who works with diligence and excellence." Overwhelming Tasks 3. Creating Ownership Of Ministry "Passes on the baton of ministry so that others continue the race." People / Leaders 4. Reaching The Unchurched "Consistently reaches out to the unchurched and influences them towards relationship with Christ and the church." People / Disciples 5. Spousal Cooperation "Collaborating as a husband and wife team in marriage and ministry." Challenging Situations 6. Relationship Building "Evidences the ability to meet new people and engage them in relationships at varied depths." People / Peers 7. Commitment To Church Growth "Embraces growing the church, both numerically and spiritually, and implements church growth principles in an effective manner." Growth Principles Effectively Applied 8. Responsiveness To Community "Understands local communities and implements culturally relevant ministries." Needs Met / Ministry Projects 9. Utilizing Giftedness Of Others "Assesses, develops and releases others to serve in their area of giftedness." People / Helpers 10. Flexibility "Negotiates change successfully while staying centered on the overall vision.': Overcoming Obstacles 11. Building Group Cohesion "Orchestrates widely differing people to function as a unified body." Difficult Groups Or Teams Led 12. Resilience "Stays the course in the face of major setbacks, disappointments and opposition." Major Crisis 13. Exercises Faith "Evidences a strong and vital relationship with God and demonstrates a willingness to take significant faith risks." Faith Risks, Faith, Or Events ~ 9 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

13 Coaching Process North Texas District Coaching Strategies Coach each planter to an expected end; Each depending on planter, community, resources, and God s vision. Three phases of planting pass on to three different coaches Phase One launch (12-18 / 24 months) Phase Two thriving while surviving (18/24 36/48 months) Phase Three building long term (36/48 months 60/72 months) *The goal would be by the end of three years self-sustaining. Three phases of planting pass on to three different coaches Phase One launch (12-18 / 24 months) Phase Two thriving while surviving (18/24 36/48 months) Phase Three building long term (36/48 months 60/72 months) *The goal would be by the end of three years self-sustaining. 4-6 months prior to launch assign coach Coach meets planter at target location (spends time previewing the area, hearing the heart of the planter, and going over ministry plan) Coach thoroughly reviews community, planter, and plans Coach reports findings to the NTD Coach develops a coaching strategy for the next months Turns in coaching plan to the NTD Expected actions: Two phone meetings monthly with coach Coach to send report to NTD. Every three months a face to face meeting Coach to send report to NTD. Planter to be involved monthly in coaching forum or coaching pod (whatever is available) Required for planter to receive funding Monthly reports must be turned in Required funding must be raised Prior to launch coaching goals for planter 2000 doors knocked prior to launch o Not to leave flyer but must actually knock door and verbally interact. o Continue with 50 doors weekly o Principle could meet people at the park / store / etc. 4-6 community touches, with a continued plan of community touches every two months. Strategic marketing plan Friend Day / Big Day every other month Core of 25 members before launching church Raise 50% of monthly operating expenses from outside donors Present one year budget Quarterly readjust budget with coach once launch occurs. Church Planting and Development Department ~ 10 ~

14 COACHING PROCESS Coaching Implementation, Training, and Facilitating Goals: To become the leading district for the A/G in the area of Coaching. To develop a system of recruiting and training coaches that will provide the coaches that will be needed as we plant new churches. To provide an A/G certified coach for every new church plant and eventually every pastor who desires a coach. To provide a self-sustaining system whereby our coaches can be trained and compensated for their coaching. Training: Coach training courses 501 and 503 offered on a quarterly basis as needed Training provided to North Texas Coach candidates on a registration free basis in exchange for a two year commitment to take on at least two Church Planters. We will offer further training in exchange for extended commitment and will offer coaching opportunities on a for pay basis. We will actively pursue those out of state to participate in our trainings on a for fee basis to help cover the cost of the trainings. Coaches: Monthly coaching report We encourage a monthly face-to-face with district providing for mileage and meal expense. After the two year commitment is fulfilled, NTD will compensate coaches for their portion of the coaching. We will serve as a resource to help our coaches find out-of-district church planters on a for pay basis. We encourage all of our coaches to obtain the AG coaching certifications Planters: We will provide a coach for every new church planter o Six months before launch at the district s expense. o Six months after launch at district s expense. o Months 7-12 after launch the Church Planter will pay a monthly fee for coaching o Months 13 on church planters are encouraged to continue in coaching at their own expense. ~ 11 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

15 Church Planter Application INSTRUCTIONS: USE PDF form to fill in application and print out to send to CP&D. Please answer all questions completely. If sufficient room is not available in the space provided use the additional page at the end of the form. Personal Information Applicant Full Name: Address: City, State, & Zip: Daytime Phone: Evening Phone: Cell Phone: Address: Birth date: Age: Birthplace: CITY STATE Marital Status: Single Married Divorced Remarried Widowed Applicant s Spouse & Children Information Full Name of Spouse: Spouse s Birth date: Date Married: Children (Names/Ages): Credentials Please indicate which credentials you hold with the Assemblies of God and your current District Certified Minister Licensed Ordained District: Are you faithful in tithing to the District? Yes No Are you in good standing with that district? Yes No Do you currently hold or have you ever held credentials with any other church organization? Yes No If so, name below: Church Organization: Credentials: - Currently hold credentials: Yes No Church Planting and Development Department ~ 12 ~

16 Education Name & Location Of School Years Completed Did You Gradu ate? Degree Received High School Yes No College Trade, Business, or Correspondence School Yes No Yes No Were Berean classes taken to fulfill the educational requirements for your credentials? Yes No Employment Please fill out the employer information beginning with the most recent position held. Employer Employed from to Job Title Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Immediate Supervisor: Phone Responsibilities Employer Employed from to Job Title Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Immediate Supervisor: Phone Responsibilities Employer Employed from to Job Title Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Immediate Supervisor: Phone Responsibilities May we contact your previous employers for referral information? Yes No ~ 13 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

17 References Give as references the name and addresses of three ministers (preferably Assemblies of God) with one being the applicant s pastor and one being the Presbyter of the section in which you reside, Include references from three friends, one of whom is NOT a believer. Ministers Pastor s Name Church Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Daytime Phone Evening Phone Pastor s Name Church Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Daytime Phone Evening Phone Pastor s Name Church Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Daytime Phone Evening Phone Friends Friend s Name Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Daytime Phone Evening Phone Friend s Name Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Daytime Phone Evening Phone Friend s Name Address STREET CITY STATE ZIP Daytime Phone Evening Phone Church Planting and Development Department ~ 14 ~

18 Financial Information Explain how your have financially prepared yourself to plant a church What is your approximate indebtedness? $ Explain (i.e. home, car, etc.): Do you have financial assistance committed to your church planting? Yes No If so, explain: Ministry Questions Briefly describe how you come to the decision to plant a church What city/area are you interested in and why do you feel called there. Do you have previous church planting experience? Yes No If so, explain: Are your spouse and family ready to support you in planting a church? Yes No If so, describe how they come to the conclusion to support the plant? ~ 15 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

19 Summarize your ministries experiences to this point. Who is your hero in ministry? Explain. Who are your three favorite authors? Author: Book: Author: Book: Author: Book: Who are your three favorite speakers? Speaker: with: Speaker: with: Speaker: with: How many people have you personally led to Christ in the last year? List your top five ways to reach unchurched people What has been the most exciting ministry you have been a part of in the last five years and what was your role? What ministries, events, activities or businesses have you previously started from scratch? Church Planting and Development Department ~ 16 ~

20 What are the latest two outreaches you have been involved in that served the community? 1. Explain and share the results. 2. Explain and share the results. Briefly describe the last time you had to recruit a team of people to help you with a ministry or project and what you did to recruit them? How would your spouse and/or friends describe your communication skills in the pulpit? When was the last time you led an effort to raise a substantial amount of money? Explain and share the results. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness? Explain. Include with this application A picture of you and your family Two preaching CD s or DVDs of your recent sermons. (One sermon must contain a clear gospel presentation) Applicant s Signature Spouse s Signature Date Date *Disclaimer: Signing this application gives the North Texas District Council permission to release any of the above information to necessary parties, and gives the NTDC permission to contact the applicant s references. ~ 17 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

21 Additional information for application: Church Planting and Development Department ~ 18 ~

22 Addendums Parent Affiliated Churches Definitions Approved by the Executive Presbytery, September 2009 Condensed definition of Assemblies of God Parent Affiliated Churches: A Parent Affiliated Church (PAC) is an outreach of-an existing General Council Affiliated Church or duly authorized District Council Affiliated Church resulting in a worshipping community with a congregational life distinct from the Parent Church (PC). A PAC is subject to the ecclesial supervision and authority of the PC, in such manner, and upon such terms and conditions, as are determined by the PC. Definition of Assemblies of God Parent Affiliated Churches: A "Parent Affiliated Church" (PAC) may exist when the following organizational characteristics can be observed: 1. A PAC is a worshipping community started by an existing congregation to reach "unchurched" and "dechurched" peoples within the United States. Unchurched refers to those individuals who have never been affiliated with an existing Christian church. Dechurched refers to those individuals who have previously been a part of a Christian church but are not currently fellowshipping with an existing congregation. 2. Purpose: The purpose of a PAC is specifically directed toward individuals who are restricted by language, social group, geography or other reasons from meaningful participation in the existing congregation. 3. Orqanization: An officially recognized PAC may be related to the Parent Church (PC) in any combination of connections including: financial, relational, governmental, etc. lt is understood that by definition, the PAC is subject to the ecclesial supervision and authority of the PC, in such manner, and upon such terms and conditions, as are determined by the PC. 4. Leadership: A PAC must have a designated leader (not necessarily the primary teacher)who is responsible for maintaining appropriate leadership structures and systems to maximize the organizational health of the PAC. 5. Process: For a PAC to be officially "chartered," a completed PAC Charter form must be submitted by the PC to its District to be signed off on by the District Secretary. The District will then submit the PAC Charter form to the National Office. 6. A PAC is not an overflow service intended to create more seating room in the same location as the main worship service of an existing church. lt is not simply a different worship style to create worship options for members The General Secretary of the General Council reserves the right to determine if a particular organizational arrangement qualifies as an officially chartered PAC. PAC Definition 2.docx 09/29/09 ~ 19 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

23 North Texas District Church Planting Pre-Launch Strategies The following strategies are designed to give church planters a step-by-step plan to prepare for the church s launch. While this is not an exhaustive list, these are key steps one must implement to build a solid organizational foundation. This is also the system your coach will use during your pre-launch phase. Pastor Development 1. Prepare yourself spiritually. Dedicate yourself to spiritual disciplines, specifically prayer, fasting, and Bible study. Include your family in your spiritual journey by praying and seeking God s will together. 2. Connect with a spiritual mentor and surround yourself with as much spiritual nutriment as possible. Dialogue with people and read books that inspire and challenge your call as a church planter. 3. Set aside time each week to spend with your family. You need balanced quality time away from the todo s of church planting. 4. Order your personal finances. a. Eliminate all personal debt. b. Simplify your budget and prepare your family to live on less and within your future means. c. Discuss future finances with your spouse. Church planting is financially tenuous for the first five years (at least). Be sure you are emotionally and physically ready for this financial transition (see the Fundraising Strategies section p. 9-15). Team Development 1. Develop a core group of people for your launch team (15-25 people). As you select people to assist you in planting a church, be sure they are spiritual mature, in good standing with their home church, or the organization they are leaving, before you invite them to be apart of the team. Your launch team are key people that will assist you in ministry development, events, systems building, and promotions. Make these decisions with much prayer. 2. Adopt the CP&D 5 P s for your launch team. This exercise will bond your team together as each one learns and shares in each of the five categories. Use some of your team development time do this and you will create a great team. a. Personalities, have each member of your launch team take a personality assessment. These tests will help discover how individual gifts and characteristics fit into the different ministries and job opportunities of a church plant. Use personality assessments such as the Myers-Briggs to discover each team members profile and how they interact with other personalities on the team. b. Personal gifts and spiritual gifts, there are many different gift assessments available to help each person discover their gifts in these areas. c. Personal pain, this step must not be skipped even though it is the hardest of all it is the most important one, you will not achieve the team bond without it. Each one has their own personal pain that they have suffered and as it is shared it gives greater insight and helps the rest of the team know that person on a deeper level. d. Personal purpose, we all have a purpose that God has called has called us to that is unique to each individual. e. Personal passion, we are all passionate about different things in life from sports to social causes. Church Planting and Development Department ~ 20 ~

24 3. Make sure the launch team knows you are serving together. Each team member plays an important role. Whether they are up front or behind the scenes they need to know they are valued and appreciated. The task of planting requires a team working in unity and harmony. 4. Schedule regular time to meet with your launch team to pray, strategize, and plan. Allow time to develop and implement ideas! 5. Arrange for you and your team to spend a weekend with two or three different planters to experience different set up and tear down situations and service styles. 6. Ask your launch team to tithe. Tithing, and the spirit of giving, is essential in forming the DNA of your church. 7. Form a healthy working relationship between your launch team, your Sectional Committee, and the District leadership. Attend sectional fellowships and district events as a team. 8. Develop a prayer team. Then pray, pray, pray! Church Development 1. Develop church website. Be sure to include a logo, the church s mission statement, core values, catch phrase, staff bios, and have online giving capabilities. Free web templates are available at 2. Adopt risk management policy. This policy must be in place before you start any public or semi-public service. 3. Make arrangements for insurance to be effective the day of your launch (insurance provided by CP&D is only for pre-launch). 4. Secure an accounting service. Using an independent firm provides accountability and removes this work load off the Lead pastor. 5. Adopt the district recommended constitution and by-laws. Any change made to the recommended constitution and by-laws must be approved by the Sectional Committee and the Executive Presbyters. 6. Outline your first year of sermons. Once planned you will be able to promote sermons in promotional material and get people excited about future messages. 7. Commit to a 4-6 month period of time where services only consist of your core team. Follow this with three semi-private pre-launch services to work out any glitches before launch day. 8. Find a school, theater, or optimal meeting place. The location must be able to seat a minimum of 250 people and include a spacious nursery and children s area. 9. Print signs. All signs must be readable from the road and include the church s name, meeting location, time, and website. Be sure to place signs at all entrances and in the interior of your building pointing to meeting areas, restrooms, etc. Contact CP&D for printing and sign resources. 10. Adopt the CP&D brochures marketing strategy. The front must be full color graphics with simple verbiage stating the need or name of the upcoming event. The back of the brochure must contain the following three things: a. A picture and testimony. The testimony should speak to the difference Jesus makes in the family s life since attending your church. You can select your family s picture and testimony or another family in your congregation. Make sure you select a family that represents your target group. b. A map of your meeting location. c. The next three to four sermon titles. Connect your sermon titles to the need or event stated on the front of the brochure. ~ 21 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

25 11. Develop a Creativity Team. This team will help you implement creative multi-media ideas for sermon illustrations, announcements, promotions and activities for your church. 12. Organize and develop key ministries for your church. This includes children and youth ministry, evangelism, worship, and small groups. Cast vision and select a leader for each of these ministries. Discuss strategic ways to effectively implement these ministries in a church plant. Be sure to give enough time to do each ministry with excellence. Rome was not built overnight! 13. Select a worship leader and develop a worship team before launching your church plant. The quality and character of your worship team is vital to your church plant. 14. Develop a nursery team. All infant/children workers must undergo a background check. 15. Commit to multiplying your church in the future. Look for people from your staff and congregation to mentor, train, and send out to plant. 16. Formulate a plan to connect guests to your church. Review 7-Step Connecting with Guest or Nelson Searcy s strategies and choose the plan that is right for your church. Public Relations Development 1. Knock on at least 2,000 doors and ask, Do you have a home church you regularly attend? If they say yes, bless them and politely move on. If they say no, ask them, If you were to attend a church what would you want that church to look like? Wait for them to answer the question and record his/her response. Remember, always wear a name badge with your name and the church s name clearly displayed and pray for each house you approach. This exercise will give you a greater understanding of your community. 2. Perform at least 3 community touches. A community touch is a pre-evangelism event designed to build your public relations and creditability with your community by serving them. Look for opportunities in your area that allow you to serve and impact your city. This can be city sponsored events such as an Easter egg hunts or sponsoring sport teams. For more ideas see the CP&D Community Touches best practices list. 3. Arrange to meet city officials and other influential people in your city to share your vision and ask how you can get involved and be a productive member of the community. 4. Drive around your area to see what needs you can find so you could serve the community by meeting that need. For a list of Community Touches best practices contact the CP&D office. Church Planting and Development Department ~ 22 ~

26 Check List for Launch Sunday There are hundreds of details that will be specific to your Launch Sunday but this list will identify key areas to cover. Pre-launch Prep 1. Signage. Always error on the side of having too many signs rather than too few. Here are some specific mistakes churches make with signs: not large enough, the lettering is too small for the church name/time/place/website. Your catch phrases are not important on these signs! Only include the NAME of the CHURCH, TIME, PLACE and WEBSITE on road signs. Remember, most of your guests will visit your website before they visit your church. Cover all key entrances to the building. Also, place signs at the entrance doors to children s classes, nurseries, student ministries, restrooms, etc. YOU CANNOT OVER- DO SIGNAGE. 2. The Ugly Check. Make sure there are no ugly trash cans, trash on floors, unclean restrooms, unclean floors, etc. We are usually using a school or public place so it is our job to make it look great, not the janitors of the property. 3. Greeters. Always have more than less. Place greeters in the parking lot and at all entrances. Always open doors for guest and have greeters pointing the way to every ministry. OVER DO THIS! Have fun with children in the parking lot and help parents with small children. You only have one time to make a GREAT first impression! 4. Provide refreshments such as coffee, hot chocolate, donuts and healthy options. 5. Make sure you are very happy with all printed materials, the look of the auditorium, the sound of the music, the video and power point presentations. Everything must all be sharp! 6. Photographer/Video Person. You can never capture this opening Sunday again. Pre-Service Check List 1. Organize a large set up and tear down crew that does not include the Lead Pastor. 2. Assign a gofer for the Lead Pastor. This is a key to Opening Day! The lead pastor cannot be running after details. 3. Perform sound system checks, including microphones, video, and power point before the start of worship service. Watch your sound levels. Quality sound doesn t have to be loud! 4. Pray. Leaders must be prayed up when they come on Sunday morning. Do not let groups gather privately out of sight for prayer before the service. Instead, have leaders, pastors, and the music team touch people in the audience before worship begins. This is the highest-touch moment every week. The Lead Pastor should also be out front greeting new people. 5. Worship Songs. Ask the following questions before you sing a song: 1. Can a person sing it the first time through? 2. Can an unchurched person understand the meaning of the words they are singing? 3. Can people participate in the song? Be sure worship does not last more than minutes. During the first few Sundays avoid choruses that are spiritual warfare in nature. Songs with this theme will come later as your church matures. 6. Make sure the nursery is easily visible, accessible, and secure. You want mothers with young children to feel comfortable leaving their children in your hands. 7. Lay down carpet on the floor for children s classes. Most schools have tile or hard floors. ~ 23 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

27 Leading the Launch Service 1. Give clear leadership and instructions to attendees. Be sure to avoid phrases like, Today we want you to do what feels comfortable - stand, sit, or whatever you feel led to do. You have a new group of people coming together who need instruction and direction. 2. Offering time. Do not discourage people to give even if they are new! People want to help you. Be clear you appreciate their faithfulness in giving. If you have young leaders, please challenge and train them on these things. 3. Connection cards. Formulate a way to receive guests contact information and place a major emphasis in the service to have everyone fill out a card. Be clear about when you want people to give and sign the cards. Have guests turn in a visitor s card for a free gift on their way out or have a Know Your Neighbor Pad at each isle. DO WHATEVER IT TAKES GET THEIR NAMES AND CONTACT INFO! 4. Announcements. Do not use people who have never spoken in front of an audience to give announcements. Almost all church plants want to use key leaders up front who are not ready to communicate clearly and enthusiastically. A person giving announcements must have the same trust and expertise as someone singing or speaking. Finally, only make announcements that pertain to the entire church family. Do not exceed 3 minutes. Post-Launch Service 1. Place printed materials in everybody s hand as they enter the church. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Give attendees a personal invitation to hand out to friends for the next service (word of mouth will grow your church). 2. Give people a worship folder with information about the church and information on areas you want them to volunteer (the more volunteers you enlist the very first Sunday the more people will return). 3. Have printed material ready with information about your student ministries, nursery, and children s classes. Make sure everyone goes home with material or crafts in their hands, especially the children. 2. Have an accessible information table available where guests can ask questions and receive more information about your church. 3. Second Greeting. At the end of the first service greet people as they leave. The lead pastor and all leaders should be accessible and visible. Once again, you might want to have someone standing by the Lead Pastor in case there is a person who needs special time and attention. Do not let the Lead Pastor get cornered meeting a major need or having a major conversation when he/she could be touching 100 other people. A guest table is a great place to meet your new guests. Invite them to meet you there after service but stand to the side of table. Allow other volunteers to stand behind the table and hand guests their gift step Follow Up plan (p. 8) or Nelson Searcy s plan in his book Fusion. Have people trained well before your Opening Day (keep your training simple). 5. Rest! After the service go home and rest for a few days. Once rested, evaluate your launch day service with your team and implement any necessary adjustments before your next service. 6. Go over this check list and add to it!! Church Planting and Development Department ~ 24 ~

28 7 Steps To Connect with Guests The following are suggestions for connecting with your visitors after Sunday morning. Your church should adopt these suggestions according to your particular community. Be sure to read your visitor s verbal and nonverbal responses. If they are uncomfortable with you calling their home or stopping by for a visit, find another avenue to invite them to revisit your church, (i.e., an emai). The key is to make your visitors feel welcomed. 1. It is imperative for guests to receive a personal phone call by someone other than the Lead Pastor before 7:00 pm the Sunday of their first visit to your church. Statistics show that an immediate thank you call within the first eight hours makes the return visit potential increase by 30-40% in comparison to a first contact made after the first 24 hours. The call should be brief, simply a thank you for coming. 2. Take a personal gift (brownies or cookies) to the visitor s home by Monday night. This provides a personal touch. Other gifts could be something from the church like a CD or a cup of candy. Be sure to include a note from the church. 3. Send a letter from the church by Tuesday or Wednesday. This letter is personally signed with a hand written note on it from the Lead Pastor or the pastor who does follow-up. It could also be signed by a leader on the church board. 4. The Lead Pastor makes a quick call the first week on Saturday morning after 10:00 am to express, I am glad you came last week and hope to see you tomorrow. Encourage the person to meet you and provide the location where you are on Sunday morning greeting people. This creates the feeling even the Pastor cares at this church. The Lead Pastor should be the last contact of the week. 5. Call second-time guests on Sunday afternoon. Thank them again for coming and advise them of ways to learn more about the church. The next two opportunities MUST be made available to those who start attending your church. 6. Invite visitors to a monthly dessert event at the Pastor s home. The Pastor is a comfortable contact person at this point. It is important to invite other leaders to this dessert. The only rule is to not discuss deep questions about the church. The purpose is for them to simply get to know you and your family. A key is to let them talk about themselves to make a real connection to you. 7. Direct those interested in seeking further answers about the church management, ministry opportunities, etc. to the monthly Newcomer s or Membership Class. Hosting this meeting in a home is optimal. Allow hour hours for this meeting. A Sunday afternoon from 3:00-7:00 pm works well. Share a meal, meet the staff, and present the vision of the church. This is the time to answer questions about doctrine, church organization, ministry opportunities, and is a great time to share a simple presentation of the Gospel. ~ 25 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

29 Fundraising Strategies 1. Make a list of all the people in your life who believe in your ministry. This can include churches where you have served, significant people from those churches, relatives, key mentors, friends, and any one else of great significance in your life. Be sure to ask permission from pastors of former churches where you have served before asking people in that congregation for financial support. 2. Write a letter to potential financial supporters letting them know you are planting a church, asking them to partner with you on this journey, and tell them you will be calling to follow-up with this request. These commitments are key to launching the church within a certain time frame. Ask for one time gifts, monthly supporters, and 3 year commitments for special projects. 3. Identify 2-3 key people that you can ask for a large financial donation. Write an intention letter stating that you are going to be contacting them to discuss financially partnering with your ministry. Then, personally contact these people. Make sure to follow-up! Do not rely on them to contact you. 4. Contact larger churches you know personally and who believe in church planting. Ask them to financially commit to your ministry for a specific amount of time. For instance, ask if they will commit to supporting your church for 3 years or more. You must be willing to be mentored by these Lead Pastors. Many of us want money with no input or direction. However, you need their wisdom and guidance. 5. Have a special offering at the beginning of the ministry year in order to hire Youth, Children s, and/or Worship Pastors. Challenge all supporters to match what people give in the offering. 6. Write a letter at the end of the year to all financial supporters. Many people are willing to give special gifts at year end. Follow up the letter with phone calls within 2 weeks. Remember, it is okay to ask for large offerings at certain times of the year. 7. Here is what your donors, especially large donors, want from you: 1. A clear strategy and budget. Make sure to convey your call to ministry, a clear starting time for the plant, your approval status as a North Texas church planter, all preparations for the plant, and your budget for the first year. 2. Your willingness to work and pursue this call at great personal risk for the sake of God s Kingdom. Are you willing to work hard, knock on doors, make thousands of phone calls, network daily, and share Christ with every person you meet? 3. A conservative budget. This includes your salary and all ministry developments. 4. Monthly updates. Send an , letter, or phone call detailing the church s progress. Be specific and avoid phrases like, Things are going well, or God is blessing us. Tell your supporters how many people are attending, how many commitments have been made, how many people have been baptized, and how God is changing lives. 5. Once a year bring your donors to your area and church for a one-day update. Walk your meeting location and have people share about how Christ has changed their lives. 8. Finally, you must personally be one of the lead givers. Give above and beyond your tithe. Do not be pretentious about your giving but be humble, knowing God will provide all your needs even before you ask. Church Planting and Development Department ~ 26 ~

30 Sample CP&D Church Fundraising Letter THIS LETTER IS A SAMPLE FUNDRAISING LETTER. PLEASE CHANGE THE INFORMATION TO FIT YOUR PARTICULAR CHURCH PLANTING STORY AND COMMUNITY. Dear, God has called Amy and I into a new adventure and we would love for you to be a part of it. Four years ago I was working as xxxxxxxxx when God began to stir in my heart a passion to serve Him in full-time ministry. At this time, I was serving as a layperson at my local home church, so I enrolled in Southwestern Assemblies of God University and began taking classes. Then in June 20xx I accepted the position of Pastor at xxxxxxxxx Church in xxxxxxxxx, Texas. It was during our two years at xxxxxxxxx that God developed a desire in us to reach the emerging generation. We were deeply hurt by the statistics and the reality that as Christians we are losing a generation which is now maturing into their twenties and thirties. God challenged us to do something about this, something that embraces those disillusioned with Christianity and the Church but not disillusioned with God and spirituality. It is now time! God has placed a burden in our hearts to plant a church in xxxxxxxxx, TX and we are embracing our call. Xxxxxxxxx is a community exploding with growth (the xth fastest growing city in America last year) and is surrounded by other fast growing communities in the surrounding area. The demographic studies show a significant increase in the number of families moving into the area each month. We are one of those families moving to xxxxxxxxx! Our vision is to create a place where everyone can experience God and develop new relationships in our community. Over the past few months, we have begun the work needed to accomplish our vision and have made vast strides towards that goal, including being blessed with a new site a new school in the heart of the community. As you can imagine, such a calling takes a tremendous investment. Not just emotionally, spiritually, and physically, but financially as well. To make this happen we need a committed network of financial support churches, organizations, friends, and family who believe in the importance of having lives and families changed through the work of the local church. We need your help! Our goal is to raise $100,000 for the first year s budget. This includes start-up and on-going costs such as facility rental, audio and video equipment, children s ministry supplies, publicity and promotional materials, and various outreach and ministry programs. Additionally, the North Texas Church Planting and Development Division will generously match every dollar contributed up to $24,000! We can also apply for up to $30,000 in matching funds from the Church Multiplication Network in the A/G National Office. This will give me two dollars for every one dollar raised! Will you make a personal investment in us and our ministry in this pivotal first year? If you have questions or would like to meet personally, we welcome the opportunity to share our hearts and dreams with you. All gifts are tax deductible. You can make checks payable to the North Texas District Council with my account #78-xxxxxxxxx and mail them to the address below. Thank you in advance for partnering with our community as we seek to touch lives and build a church that will impact the city we love. We are thrilled to be on this journey. We hope you will walk with us, support us, and celebrate with us what God is doing and will do. We appreciate your prayers. With Great Anticipation, Guy and Gal Churchplanters Mail all contributions to: North Texas District Council of the Assemblies of God PO Box 1188 Hurst, TX ~ 27 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

31 Sample CP&D Church Fundraising Facts These facts can be distributed with your fundraising letter in order for supporter to understand your vision, planting community, ministry plan, and financial needs. Why plant in xxxxxxxxx? The vision for a church plant in xxxxxxxxx was birthed out of prayer. God placed a burden in our hearts for the people of xxxxxxxxx. According to the US Census Bureau, xxxxxxxxx was listed as the xth fastest growing US city in xxxxxxxxx routinely has appeared on the top-xxxxxxxxx growth list the past several years. It is booming and expanding rapidly. We believe God s timing, aligning of opportunities, and our availability is no coincidence. The harvest is ripe and we are ready. What kind of church will this be? We will be a congregation affiliated with the Assemblies of God in the North Texas District. Our ministry will focus on a weekly worship, children s and youth ministry, small groups, local outreaches, and local and world missions. Multiplication and future church planting is an integral part of our church s vision. What is the leadership and accountability structure? To provide leadership, accountability, support, and direction, we will be establishing a governing board this year consisting of persons outside of our congregation. The board will be the sectional committee in which our church is located. Why $100,000? The North Texas District Church Planting and Development Division believes churches must be planted on a solid financial foundation. That is why they will invest up to $24,000 and encourage gifts by partners like you. We want to begin strong. That means when we finally go public with weekly worship services, we want those attending to see a solid worship ministry, children s program, and other ministries. We also want our technology to be cutting edge, and our communication and identity pieces to be complete and polished. Bottom line, a church plant begins with absolutely nothing and needs everything. How long will the plant need outside financial support? The first three to five years for a church plant are challenging financially. Even in a growing church plant, giving often lags behind a similar sized established church. It takes time for new believers to develop the discipline of giving. We need churches and faithful people with a shared vision to lay a solid foundation for our church. What is the church s support network? The leadership of the church has a solid support foundation established. The North Texas District CP&D Division will provide professional and personal coaching. We are also connected with the National A/G Church Multiplication Network in Springfield, Missouri. How will progress and news of the plant be communicated to supporters? We will be sending periodic updates to all supporters of our church. We are also establishing a website where current information will be posted as well as a place for you to provide feedback. The latest update is very exciting! At our first launch team meeting we had xx adults make commitments or express interest in joining the team! The team is growing daily and we would love for you to be apart of this life changing adventure! Our first official gathering is scheduled for 6 PM. We would love to have you join us! Church Planting and Development Department ~ 28 ~

32 Sample Tithing Letter Tips: Warm up the letter with your own words, the church s exciting events and accomplishments of your ministry. Ask for a specific amount! It s always best for a letter like this to be written by a treasurer, church leader, or someone other than the Lead Pastor. Dear, As treasurer of [name of your church], I want to personally thank you for your consistent, faithful financial giving. As we enter the fall of this year we have some of the most exciting opportunities ever. However, with these great opportunities also comes the challenge of finding the necessary financial resources to fulfill God s call on our church. During the summer months, it isn t unusual to put our giving on the back burner. I want to encourage you to pray about becoming more consistent in your weekly giving to [name of your church]. As many of you know, we are in an exciting building fund program. I want to thank you in advance for responding so positively to this present challenge and encourage you not to overlook our weekly budget. As the treasurer, I need to inform you of the present deficit we face in the 2008 budget. We are running behind in our giving, although we are confident with everyone praying and responding that we will make up this shortfall in the next few months. [Name of your church] is a young church but we have always responded to every need. Our Children s ministry is growing rapidly, our Youth ministry is vibrant, and we continue to reach more and more adults each week for Christ. In the past two weeks alone, we have had over people make decisions for Christ in the Sunday morning worship! God is amazing! Would you please join [name of spouse] and I as we tithe weekly to [name of your church]? I am confident that with all of us together, we can meet this present financial need. Partnering In Ministry Together, [Name of Treasure] ~ 29 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

33 1. No follow up Landmines in Church Planting 2. Developing a board too soon (shouldn t happen for 3 years) 3. No marketing plan 4. Too many strategies (Assess your community and ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to reach your community and then stick to the plan) 5. Trusting the wrong people 6. Declaring your non-negotiable (this can close the door to those you are hoping to influence) 7. Lack of a strong launch team 8. The launch team is not asked to tithe for 3 months before the start 9. Poor music, drama, and arts 10. Lack of good sound equipment 11. Lack of preparation in preaching messages 12. Too long of a private meeting time with your launch team. You lose momentum if you want too long to launch. 13. Lack of finances 14. Starting too many ministries too quickly 15. Thinking that small groups can grow your church 16. Not championing the front end of the Great Commission 17. Not championing the end of the Great Commission 18. Poor location and insufficient facility 19. No Coach 20. No ongoing plan after the opening 21. No core values or vision statement 22. Lack of volunteer staff 23. Downplaying the Sunday Morning experience 24. Listening to too many voices we need discipleship, we need a singles ministry, we need a women s ministry, we need youth ministry, we need we need we need Lack of excellence in Worship, Children s and Youth Ministries 26. No ongoing plan for outreach after open marketing (At least 12 Sundays for outreach - Easter, Mothers Day, Friend Days, etc., are key Sundays!) 27. Lack of vision for expanding the staff 28. Lack of local missions and outreaches that captures the heart of the church 29. LACK OF PRAYER, A PRAYER TEAM, and PRAYER-PARTNERS Church Planting and Development Department ~ 30 ~

34 SAMPLE FORMS: Actual forms available from CP&D Suggested Constitution and Bylaws ~ 31 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

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40 Certificate of Formation ~ 37 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

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42 General Council New Church Opened Form ~ 39 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

43 Parent Affiliated Church (PAC) Charter Application Church Planting and Development Department ~ 40 ~

44 District Affiliated Church Planter s Monthly Report ~ 41 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

45 NTD CP&D Financial Partnership Agreement Church Planting and Development Department ~ 42 ~

46 Coaching Agreement ~ 43 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

47 MX9 Application Church Planting and Development Department ~ 44 ~

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52 STL Church Grant Application ~ 49 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

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55 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Parent Church Sample Church Planting and Development Department ~ 52 ~

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60 Checklist for the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding ~ 57 ~ Church Planting and Development Department

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62 Checklist for the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding (PAC/GC Church) ~ 59 ~ Church Planting and Development Department