PlantR Looks Back and Ahead

December 24, 2009 | 1 Comment

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!

• John Burke, Pastor of Gateway Church, on Church and Culture
• Ryan Robinson, City Demographer on Changing Demographics of Austin
• Tony Dale, House 2 House Leader, on Church Planting Movements
• George Patterson, Professor of Church Planting, on CP Movements
• Daniel Geraci, Director of ADRN, on Disaster Relief in Austin
• Zach Allen, Lead Pastor of Austin Bible, on Leadership in Church Planting
• Michael Stewart, Pastor of Missional Community Austin Stone, on Gospel and Church Planting Idols
• David Smith, Director of Mission for the Austin Baptist Assn, on Family and Mission
• Hugh Halter, Director of Missio, on Incarnational Church Planting

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:

• Continued excellence in Monthly Network meetings
• Strategic Conversation and Planning for Effective City-wide Church Planting
• More Grassroots Leadership from Austin Church Planters
• A National Church Planting Conference in October

Let’s continue to pray and partner for the advance of the gospel in Austin and beyond!

Categories: Uncategorized