Case Studies

Concept Phase

A church plant is birthed -- this might come from an apostolic burden for a specific location, or a local church going for their "next town"; either way at this stage there's no leader yet identified, even though there may be a small group gathering on the ground.

Preparation Phase

Once a leader has been identified the preparations can begin. Strategy is developed, plans are made and the process of moving to the location gets under way. Before God uses a leader there is always a period of preparation. This period of development is primarily focused on the growth of the leader. God wants to make us the sort of people that He can use!

Gathering Phase

Once in a location, focus shifts to gathering others. Right from the start it is important to meet and gather as many new people as possible. It's during this phase that a core leadership team is identified as the church plant works towards a public launch.

Establishing Phase

The public launch signals the start of the establishing phase which is when the main foundations are laid. The leadership team is developed as core ministries are established. The plant grows numerically whilst building community.

Church Phase

The plant is recognised as a church by apostolic ministry when there is plurality of leadership; clear community with numerical mass; and has the ability to become financially autonomous.