Jude 2

Recently the local church I attend has commited to planting 4 churches this year in certain cities in Southern California. All these cities are at least 30-40 miles distance from the local church.

If you were in a position to plant a church what method would you use ? I have certain methods that we use over seas and certain ones I am inclined to use here in the States.

Also what would be your criteria in choosing an area to plant a church ?

How would you go about getting the right Pastor ?

I am very familiar with the old method of just going out by yourself and struggeling.

If you planted or pioneered your church what, and how did youo go about it.

Paul,
As of today, our church is 10 years old. This is our anniversary!!!

If I were planting a church today, I would do it the same way again, with minor changes.

First, don't hire any pastor who is not willing to committ the rest of his life to this location.

Second, spend 25% of your budget on advertising.

Third, don't allow any ministries to be started in that church until they can be properly staffed....ie Sunday school, youth , etc/

Fourth, rent a school or something very neutral to begin and buy property that has enough space for the future.

Use dvd worship and skip the bands etc.

Do a survery in the area and know the demographics.....tailor the church to meet the community needs,

Stress......community.....not religion

DEFINE THE PURPOSE FOR YOUR CHURCH TO EXIST IN THAT LOCATION

Send all your guys to Rick Warren (since you are in the area) and let them learn from the greatest group of church planters in the past 50 years.

That is for starters......but I am serious about it all....especially the 1st one.