Helen Kelly – Church Development network

Verses of Gratitude and Mission

As November begins, we enter a season that invites us to reflect on God’s mission, the harvest of new church plants, and the incredible work happening across our decentralized network of networks. Here are 10 verses to keep close this month, along with thoughts on how they can guide church planters and missional leaders in advancing God’s kingdom. Whether you’re pioneering a new church, supporting church multiplication efforts, or praying for workers in the harvest field, these verses remind us of God’s enduring presence and promises.

#1. Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

This verse reminds church planters to bring their challenges, dreams, and struggles to God. As we approach Thanksgiving, let this be a call to transform anxiety into prayer, trusting God to guard our hearts as we multiply ministry in creative spaces and places.

#2. Psalm 100:4

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday – it’s a missional posture. For church planters, this means approaching every community, every potential new believer with gratitude and praise. Our thankfulness becomes a gateway to sharing God’s love in new contexts and emerging church communities.

#3. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Church multiplication isn’t about perfect circumstances, but faithful obedience. This verse challenges church planters to maintain joy and gratitude whether launching in urban centers, rural communities, or innovative ministry spaces. God’s will transcends our challenges.

#4. Matthew 9:37-38

“The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

God is actively seeking workers for His harvest. Our role is to pray, prepare, and support those being called to plant churches in creative spaces and places.

#5. Hebrews 13:16

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

Our work isn’t just about starting churches, but about creating generous communities that embody Christ’s love. As we approach the season of giving, let this guide our missional strategies.

#6. Proverbs 3:5-6

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Church planting requires radical trust. Whether you’re launching a house church, a campus ministry, or a traditional congregation, this verse invites us to rely on God’s wisdom beyond our strategic plans and human understanding.

#7. 1 Chronicles 16:34

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

God’s goodness isn’t dependent on our success metrics or church growth charts, but on His unchanging character. Let this be a source of hope and thanksgiving.

#8. James 1:17

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

Every church plant, every new believer, every missional opportunity is a gift from God. As we reflect on Thanksgiving, recognize that our network’s impact comes not from our strategies, but from God’s generous provision.

#9. Colossians 3:15-17

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful… And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Despite our diverse approaches to church planting, we’re united by Christ’s peace and a spirit of gratitude. Let this guide our collaborative efforts across different contexts.

#10. Luke 10:2

“He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.'”

We close with another missional call that epitomizes our network’s heart. As those of us in the States gather around Thanksgiving tables, let’s commit to praying for workers, supporting church planters, and celebrating God’s ongoing mission.

#ChurchPlantingInCreativeSpacesAndPlaces

As we journey through November, let these verses be our guide. Whether facing moments of breakthrough or challenge, these scriptures remind us of God’s steadfast presence and invite us to respond with gratitude, trust, and missional passion. Happy November, CDN family!

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From Four Walls to Every Corner

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From Four Walls to Every Corner

In the heart of Ecuador, a powerful movement is taking root, embodying the Church Development Network’s mission of “A relentless pursuit of obedient disciples.” Pastors Fernando Aguilar and Carlos Arboleda, along with their dedicated team, are bringing Matthew 28:18-20 to life, planting churches that promise to transform communities one family at a time.

What sets these church planters apart is their unwavering commitment to step beyond the confines of traditional church walls. Inspired by visiting U.S. pastors Javier and Martha Mendoza, Fernando and Carlos embraced a vision larger than themselves. Their humility and openness to guidance led them to see the vast harvest field waiting outside their comfort zones.

However, these planters quickly realized the limitations of their current approach. “We were inspired to leave where we were within four walls,” Carlos reflects. The challenge was clear: how could they reach the multitudes when the workers were so few? This realization sparked a journey that would take them from their familiar surroundings to the streets and homes of their community.

Nonetheless, through a series of divine appointments and strategic gatherings, answers were in sight. Starting with an initial encounter with the Mendozas, the vision grew. A second meeting solidified their commitment, and a third brought together humble pastors eager to receive this seed of church planting. On August 23, 2024, their faith bore fruit as they launched their first gathering, bringing together 100 attendees from various churches in the Durán canton of Guayaquil.

Today, the Evangelical Covenant Church New Life and Free Methodist Living Water Church stand as testaments to their faith and hard work. But they’re not stopping there. Their short-term goal is to plant churches in the homes of receptive families, while their long-term vision is ambitious yet inspiring: to plant an average of 10 churches per year in different sectors of their city.

“We hope to influence more pastors and that this church planting becomes impregnated in the DNA of the church,” says Fernando. Their dream is to see a church on every corner of their city and beyond, touching families with God’s love and raising up peace-makers who will multiply this vision.

As they move forward, Fernando, Carlos, and their team are grateful for the prayers and support of the global church community.

Their story reminds us that when we focus on Jesus’ commission, He is indeed faithful to build His church – not just within four walls, but in every corner of our communities and world.

Specific Prayer Requests from Fernando and Carlos:

Join us in supporting this vibrant church planting movement in Ecuador!

Together, we can help expand God's kingdom in Ecuador and beyond

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Parks and Rec: Church Planting Edition

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Parks and Rec: Church Planting Edition

At the Church Development Network (CDN), our mission is “A relentless pursuit of obedient disciples.” This mission drives our efforts in planting nondenominational evangelical churches across the globe. Recently, during a first Encounter in Columbus, Georgia, SIX new churches were conceived, and 15 potential future church sites were identified! This is a testament to our belief that focusing on Jesus’ commission (Matthew 28) will lead to the growth of His church (Matthew 16). Pastor Brandon led that Encounter, and we can’t wait to share with you the fruits from that weekend!

Meet the inspiring church planters who are embodying this mission:

Basketball Church A group of devoted individuals felt called to their local neighborhood. They saw an opportunity to connect with the community through basketball. They started with around 10 people which led to additional people-of-peace connections. Once the Summer heat subsides, they have plans of regular gatherings over games, cookouts, Worship and the Word.

Tutoring Church A mother and daughter, stirred by the Lord at the Encounter, asked themselves, “What if we mentored kids in the neighborhood with a Bible study and tutoring?” Their faith was soon rewarded when a student, without any prior conversation, inquired if they offered tutoring. This marked the beginning of a new ministry, connecting them with more students and their families.

Park Church Shawn, a young man at the Encounter, felt a divine calling to a local park. Despite initial hesitation, he followed God’s nudge and met Coach Vince, who welcomed the idea of a church and offered a space in the recreation center. This has opened doors to connect with about 30 young men in the community.

Gym Church Sandy, a fitness instructor and wife to Brandon, was inspired to start a church at her all-women’s gym. Her conversation with a woman at the gym revealed a shared desire to create a supportive community for women, including those who had left the church due to past hurts.

Are you sure God?

Each of these church planters faced a crisis of belief. They questioned how they could effectively plant a church and reach their communities. Would people respond to their efforts? Could they overcome the challenges ahead? Through mentorship, prayer, and unwavering faith, these church planters saw their crises of belief resolved. They experienced God’s provision and guidance, leading to the establishment of new churches and ministries, and the transformation of their communities.

"God is working powerfully in Columbus and beyond. These stories are just a glimpse of the Kingdom unfolding. We are grateful for our conference, which connected us to many of you, enriching our ministry as a church of missional communities that multiply."

Pastor Brandon Branigan

Join us in supporting what's going on in Columbus!

Join us in our relentless pursuit of obedient disciples! With your contribution, we can continue to place churches in creative spaces and places!

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Pastor Uproots Life in FL to Plant Seeds in OH

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Pastor Uproots Life in FL to Plant Seeds in OH

At the heart of the Church Development Network’s mission lies a relentless pursuit of obedient disciples, fueled by a firm belief that when we focus on Jesus’ commission (Matthew 28), He faithfully builds His church (Matthew 16). This unwavering conviction has inspired Javier Mendoza, a seasoned church planter with 35 years of experience, to embark on a
remarkable journey that led him to Iglesia Encuentro in Columbus, Ohio.

Javier’s story is one of unwavering commitment and an unquenchable passion for expanding God’s Kingdom. Alongside his devoted wife, Martha, Javier left the comforts of his home state of Florida, where his three children and five grandchildren reside, to answer a higher calling–planting a new church in the heart of Columbus.

While Javier’s extensive experience in church planting spanned decades, he found himself yearning for a more structured and guided approach. It was through the mentorship and workshops provided by CDN that he discovered a renewed vision and an ABC process for church planting, igniting a flame within him to embark on this transformative journey.

Inspired by the CDN’s guidance and driven by a deep-rooted desire to impact lives, Javier and Martha made the courageous decision to relocate to Columbus, Ohio. On January 14, 2024, their dream became a reality as Iglesia Encuentro held its first gathering, attended by 10 faithful souls. Since then, the church has continued to grow, resonating with early attendees through its love, passion, and unwavering commitment to God’s Kingdom.

As Iglesia Encuentro takes root in the Northeast area of Columbus, Javier’s vision extends far beyond the present. His short-term dreams are to establish a missionary church that impacts society with redemptive changes, multiplying leaders, pastors, and churches. In the long term, he envisions a ripple effect that will lead to church planting in
the South Columbus Area and eventually, Cincinnati, Ohio.

However, this ambitious journey is not without its challenges. Javier and his congregation face the pressing need for a larger gathering space, sound equipment, and financial support to cover the expenses of their growing ministry. Additionally, they pray for the establishment of a Training Center in Columbus, Ohio, to equip and empower future generations of church planters.

Despite these obstacles, Javier’s unwavering faith and the guidance of the Church Development Network continue to fuel his pursuit. His story serves as a powerful reminder that when we focus on Jesus’ commission, He faithfully builds His church, and that a relentless pursuit of obedient disciples can transform lives and communities.

Specific Prayer Requests from Javier and Iglesia Encuentro:

Join us in supporting Javier and Iglesia Encuentro!

Your contributions will help provide them and others with the resources they need to establish Training Centers and continue their relentless pursuit of obedient disciples.

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Victory’s Vision x 19

Encounter +mentorship, Events, News, Stories, TC Encounter Details, TC Encounter Extras, Training Center, Uncategorized

Victory’s Vision x 19

While I often hear about kingdom efforts magnified through CDN, I typically serve as a third-party anecdotal conduit, sharing stories of His goodness within our network once I receive alerts that new works are ready to be shared. However, as someone who was present for the Atlanta Encounter last month, I can first-hand attest to just how palpable God’s presence was during those 36 hours.

As is characteristic of most Encounters, Atlanta showcased the power of collective worship, prayer, and training, exceeding expectations. Hosted by our newfound partners at Victory Church and facilitated by CDN, 57 individuals gathered for an intensive 2-day experience. What set this apart from many inaugural Encounters was Victory Church’s pre-existing culture of establishing house churches throughout their region. On our way to the airport, Victory House Church’s Campus Pastor, Aaron Born, shared that CDN provided their missing piece. Prior to their discussions with CDN, they lacked the framework to solidify their visions and progress toward sustainable realities. Nevertheless, the ground was fertile and brimming with potential long before any of us arrived. God undoubtedly preceded us, paving the way in Georgia and beyond!

In total, 19 individuals were inspired to plant new churches or outreaches following the weekend. Lyndon Carr of Victory Church shared his reflections: “Victory Vida [Victory’s Spanish-speaking church] decided to host a Spanish training site in August. At least two couples from the Victory Vida group also aspire to plant churches. One couple within our group plans to relocate their RV to an RV park and initiate a house church in that community! Furthermore, one of our leaders in Quebec has devised a plan to establish a house church with his family in Canada! The house church planters in Jamaica have resolved to establish a house church in Guava Walk, an area teeming with potential for spreading the gospel!”

If you think there’s a lot going on there, that’s precisely what characterized the entire weekend! Each session led to revelatory moments yearning for someone to respond in obedience. God could not have made the pathways clearer if He tried! The vision of an individual from one country on one side of the room resonated with the aspirations of another from an entirely different country on the opposite side. This realization sparked further affirmation, resulting in 36 hours of interconnected chain reactions that only our remarkable Father could orchestrate so seamlessly.

When ordinary people encounter Jesus, extraordinary visions are born for spreading the gospel! If one weekend could catalyze 19 new church plants & gospel-spreading ministries, where might God be leading you to step out further?!

Will you join us in prayer for the laborers, resources, and open doors necessary to witness this vision come to fruition? Victory Vida also seeks support as they prepare to host the first Spanish-language Encounter weekend.

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A Whirlwind Weekend: Twin Encounters in PA, USA

Encounter +mentorship, Events, News, Stories, Training Center, Uncategorized

During the last weekend of January 2024, God orchestrated divine appointments as two Encounter retreats convened simultaneously in Pennsylvania —one at Open Arms Church in Bradford, led by Zoe Hatche, Rich Dennison and Dan Robinson; and one at Wallenpaupack Church in Lakeville, led by Pastor Ken Platt along with Helen Kelly and Joe Krajacic. Though separated geographically, these communities found themselves spiritually united.

In Bradford, hungry for a breakthrough, 15 eager participants joined Zoe and her team. As the standout moment, during a defining moment of surrender, the fallow ground of participant Phil’s heart broke open as two local ministerial candidates prayed over him. With Spirit-led words affirming his identity as a “weeping prophet,” he was exceedingly encouraged and knows that although he doesn’t have all the answers yet, he is indeed being called and he is responding with a resounding, “Yes!” Moreover, while only one church plant sprouted that weekend, many gained confidence for the works already emerging through them.

Simultaneously in Lakeville, the Holy Spirit fueled similar yearnings for greater Gospel impact through Wallenpaupack Church. Another fifteen participants, equally yearning to exchange plateau for acceleration, attended this second Encounter of the weekend.

During a previous Wallenpaupack Church Encounter, Greentown Family Church was conceived in heaven. This time, lead planters, John and Jess LaBelle, returned – six months into their new work – joined by several friends and family members eager to reach the families of Greentown, PA with them for Christ.

God deposited fresh vision into others from Wallenpaupack Church as well: Johnna felt a nudge for “Summit Trails Church” – an outdoor, hiking congregation doing mobile Discovery Bible Studies along park trails! Emily sensed the need to identify a strategically located building near her gated community where she could begin to gather His people, and another felt led to launch a smaller, more intimate house church. Lastly, Gary began unpacking a deep-seated call to build reentry ramps through prison ministry. FOUR ministries and churches from ONE Encounter!

Additionally, Momentum Church, launched in 2022 from Wallenpaupack Church, brought new guests. Several there see needs among homeschool families that God may be prompting them to reach. Stay tuned on that one!

Despite separate locales, these twin Encounter havens became springboards for Kingdom increase, relentlessly building disciples and planting new churches. Amen?! Amen.

So, what’s next?

For Open Arms, please pray for an exciting opportunity that the ministry is considering for their future. At Wallenpaupack, Pastor Ken faces mentoring an influx of new planters and churches on top of their own building expansion goals.

Both desire prayer and support to steward these new works faithfully and break through barriers to see the Great Commission advanced. Their next Encounter weekends are slated for July 2024.

Will you join in praying for these churches during this critical season of birthing new ministries? May we all say “yes” as God stirs new callings in each of us for Kingdom growth!

Fun fact!

During this last weekend in January there were also Encounters elsewhere in PA and on the other side of the pond in the United Kingdom!

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Igniting Passionate Disciple-Makers in Virginia’s Youth

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Aaron Wells surveyed the youth landscape when planting Pure Life Church in rural Virginia – only 2% of over 10,000 teenagers connected to one of 30 local congregations. He felt compelled to shape a new destiny for the next generation. Through rallying youth groups and an innovative teen center, Aaron now counts 20% of youth engaged across the county.

Seeing momentum build, churches and businesses pitched in to raise $53,000 and enlist 20 volunteers to resource Pure Life’s budding youth outreach. Aaron dreams disciple-making DNA will saturate this community as teens grow in passion for Jesus and get equipped for life as church planters worldwide. He already witnesses the fruit as students lead their peers, share their fledgling faith and grow curiously toward Christ.

The chance to shape young disciple-makers who will reproduce across the globe links directly to our vision for multiplication movements. We celebrate the contagious spirit stirring in Virginia’s youth and Aaron’s vision to propel this energy outward for kingdom impact.

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Kingdom Multiplication through Kenyan Encounter!

Encounter +mentorship, Launchpad, Stories

The inaugural gathering in Nairobi was nothing short of electrifying. An enthusiastic group of planters, ignited by a dynamic Encounter Weekend, converged with a shared determination to amplify the impact of the gospel. From December 14-16, CDN trainers Ebenezer, Zoe, Ruth, and Adiel spearheaded this transformative mission, leaving an indelible mark on attendees hailing from various denominations and roles.

God worked through the contagious passion of these trainers, inspiring participants ranging from bishops to evangelists to teachers. The ripple effect extended across borders, touching lives in Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, and Tanzania. Ruth recalled the hunger for Swahili multiplication resources. The Kimotho’s, a local pastoral couple, and fellow teacher, Evalyn Kimani, all offered their translation skills. Encounter Guidebook are now available as a result! Esther Kufuru now leads CDN’s Launchpad in Swahili.

The vision didn’t stop there. Equipped with DBS cards, FMC Superintendent Yesse carried the torch back to Tanzania, ready to empower future evangelists. Despite lingering language differences, 53 leaders emerged from the experience united under one mission: catalyzing 15 training centers in 2024, serving as launching pads for grassroots church movements.

The Holy Spirit’s momentum was unmistakable as relationships blossomed across regions. This newfound synergy and expansive vision emerged as a testament to divine intervention. As Ebenezer reflected, “The Lord was with me through all challenges. CDN talks about ‘let it rain’—which is precisely what God did!”

In the midst of diverse languages and backgrounds, a harmonious mission emerged. Only God could orchestrate such sudden unity, turning a gathering in Nairobi into the epicenter of a movement. The seeds planted during those days are destined to yield a bountiful harvest in the coming years. As we celebrate the unity and momentum generated in Nairobi, let’s take this spirit of collaboration and extend it beyond borders. Join us in prayer for the continued success of the 15 training centers slated for 2024.

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