Church Planter's Network

Why a church planter's network?

It is our belief that having a church planter's network give the greatest leverage in the church planting system.  Mentoring is a common thread in all we do.  It is also an intensive relational experience.  The mentoring relation needs a track on which to run, and CPN (Church Planter Network) is that mentoring track.  It provides a safe setting for the mentor and planter to surface issues related to the church planting process, as well as fine-tuning the strategy developed.  The CPN can enhance accountability and follow-through if the spouse and laypersons are involved.

Realize the truth of the statement, "Mentoring relationships do not keep you from doing your work, they can be a very effective way of doing your work."  

What is a CPN?

Church Planter Network is a monthly meeting, normally lasting three hours.  It involves the planter, spouse, mentor, and possible key lay leaders for the purpose of prayer, networking, and group learning.

Why participate in a CPN?

• For relational reasons.  A common feeling expressed by church planters and their spouses is a sense of loneliness in ministry. 
• The nature of the work.  Church planting is spiritual warfare.  Basic Training is designed to give the church planter a basic introduction to the tools he/she will need to perform in this warfare.  After Basic Training, a lot of on-job training needs to occur.  Most additional training should be delivered on a "just in time" basis...when learning is at its highest.  In most battles, there are unexpected elements such as changing enemy strategy, different terrains, and unexpected developments.  Because of these unexpected elements, it is helpful for the front-line troops (church planters) to come together, compare notes, and learn from one another.

The vision of CPN...

CPN vision statement: "The Church Planter Network builds a support system for church planting teams, resulting in healthy, reproducing churches that will make a difference in their community and world."

Core values:

           Learning together
           Evangelism
           Adoration
           Relationships
           Nurture

CPN mission statement: "The Church Planter Network creates a learning community from which a movement of God can be birthed to take the gospel to the ends of the earth."

Units include the following:

Praying, visioning, focusing, preparing, evangelizing, discipling, developing, mobilizing, covenanting, dialoguing.

New units are being developed regularly by networks in the field and in response to requests from the field.