God has done a lot through PlantR this year! It’s amazing to see the gospel advance through a grassroots network with no staff. Thanks to the PlantR board for donating their time to provide direction for the network, and to the trench-weary church planters who continue to look beyond themselves and their churches to catalyze a Christ-centered, context-sensitive movement.
A Church Planting City
Austin is gaining a reputation as a church planting city. Other cities are learning from us and starting their own area-based church planting networks. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to consult Justin Hyde of Christ Church as he formed the Brazos Church Planting Network. This network already has about 30 pastors involved.
In our own city, we’ve seen PlantR grow from a loose collection of 30 men to a strengthening network of 50 church planters. Churches are being planted throughout Austin through cooperative generosity and partnership across denominational lines. Hill Country Bible, The Austin Stone, Austin New Church, and Acts 29 are among the churches working together to renew the city through planting initiatives. Scores of independent churches are being planted. Formal and informal coaching relationships are emerging through planter. Planters are being encouraged through prayer and friendship within our network. People are coming to Jesus. Pockets of renewal are forming all over Austin. These are exciting, unprecedented times!
PlantR Progress
During 2009 we heard from a host of outstanding speakers covering a wide range of topics. I wish we would have recorded them!
This line-up of speakers reflects a healthy convergence of Christ-centered thinking and Austin-focused mission. I’m hopeful we can build on this in 2010.
What to Expect in 2010
In 2010 we will be focusing on several key areas:
Let’s continue to pray and partner for the advance of the gospel in Austin and beyond!
Mosaic Austin has a meeting space that they are interested in sharing with another church community for weekend services. It is located at 5619 Airport Blvd (see the map below). The meeting space can hold up to 300 and includes two projectors, a sound system, drums, and a children’s room.
There is the possibility of the space being available Saturday evening, Sunday morning, or Sunday evening. Contact Don Vanderslice if you are interested or have questions.
On Friday, May 8, Gateway Church is hosting the Maximum Impact Simulcast. Here’s a summary of the event:
The Maximum Impact Simulcast is a one-day leadership event, featuring a premiere collective of brilliant minds intent on communicating the art and science of whole leadership.
Our world-class speaker line-up offers you and your entire leadership team a rare opportunity to glean useful strategy and energizing hope from some of the most sought-after thought influencers of our day. Broadcast live from Atlanta to more than 60,000 business professionals via a private digital satellite network, the Maximum Impact Simulcast will connect you with like-minded leaders eager to translate their imagination into action.
The cost of the event is $85 until April 15, and $95 after that. Online registration and further details can be found CenTexLeaders.com.
Many of you have been asking for the city demographer’s PowerPoint presentation on Austin demographics and growth trends. Here it is!
Ryan Robinson, the city demographer for Austin, is speaking at the PLantR network meeting today. The last time I heard him speak I took copious notes. Not only does he know demographics, he knows thier impact on the shifting cultural and economic soil of our city. You won’t want to miss him!