If you resonate with anything I write here and have any kind of inkling that you’re supposed to plant some kind of church/community, please let me recommend that you find the time and money to go to Ecclesia’s church planter training May 9-13 in Richmond, VA.
I went a couple years ago as we were moving toward planting, and it was profoundly helpful. The description on the website details how this training is different from other kinds of church planter “boot camps” and why this would be well worth your time and money.
First, there will not be hundreds of people here. More than likely, there will be somewhere between 20-30. This means plenty of room for dialog, conversation, and questions amidst all of the planned training.
Second, everyone stays, eats, and prays together for the week. Most people leave with better friendships, some of which will be life-long, because they started the church planting journey – in this way – together.
Third, there will be a host of different equippers with unique planting stories. This gathering (as in all we try to do) isn’t dominated by just a few individuals or models of church planting. You’ll hear from a variety of planters, both seasoned and new, and learn from their experiences and approaches.
Finally, we hope to provide a good balance of theology, theory, and practicality. Each component is vital.
Plus any gathering involving Fitch is always a riot. You should go!
Also, a tangential thought: probably “boot camp” is a bad metaphor for church planter trainings, yes?
Hey, Ben:
As a former graduate of the Michigan State Police Training Academy, I love that picture! Our training officers usually didn't double-team us like that, but it was every bit as intense. Aren't we blessed that God, who has every right to rail at us like that, doesn't?
Blessed indeed, Vernon!