Mancelona

Location: Mancelona, Michigan, USA
Event Type: Encounter

Something powerful stirred in Mancelona, Michigan this fall. Thirty participants gathered for an Encounter event, and what unfolded was a beautiful picture of the Kingdom breaking through in fresh, unexpected ways.

A Diverse Group, A Unified Response

The gathering drew a remarkable cross-section of believers, including a vibrant group of teenagers whose passion and vision proved they’re not just the future of the church—they’re powerfully present in it today. As the participants engaged with what God was stirring in their hearts, most felt called to birth something entirely new in their communities.

One moment particularly stands out: a young woman caught a vision for a mobile church that would bring the gospel directly into disadvantaged areas. Rather than waiting for people to come to a building, she envisioned the church going to where people are—meeting needs, sharing hope, and building relationships on their turf.

Conceiving and Nurturing

The team, working alongside Mark Cryderman, understands that an Encounter is just the beginning. These Spirit-breathed visions are like newborns—full of potential but requiring careful nurturing to survive and thrive. That’s why they’re already planning a follow-up Encounter for March, creating space to check in on these churches conceived in heaven and provide the support needed to see them fully realized.

The timeline for these new expressions of church and ministry varies. Some participants are ready to move forward in the coming months, while others are sensing a 2026 launch. Each timeline is unique, reflecting the specific preparation and groundwork God is doing in different contexts.

The Road Ahead

As these dreamers return to their everyday lives, the challenge shifts from inspiration to implementation. Vision can fade when met with the resistance of routine and the weight of obstacles. That’s why prayer is so vital right now.