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How Do You Relaunch a Relaunch?
Have you ever got to a place where you have put all you have into your vision only to realize you will have to start again? In the latest episode of the Believe Again podcast, I spoke with Pastor March Poland about "Relaunching a Relaunch." Marc Poland shut down his church, changed the names, changed locations, and went through a process to plant The Discover Church in Philadelphia, only to have to relaunch his relaunch a year and a half later. This podcast episode dives into the intricate process of breathing new life into a church not once but twice.
When you feel like giving up, here are 7 things you can do to gain traction when you feel like you are losing momentum while leading your church.
1. Seek Guidance and Training: In this episode, Marc emphasized the importance of seeking guidance from experienced organizations like ARC (Association of Related Churches) and undergoing proper training to gain practical application alongside spiritual practices.
2. Embrace Change and Take Risks: The decision to close the original church and start over was a significant risk that required embracing change and being open to a new direction.
3. Focus on Culture and Environment: Creating a life-giving culture and an inviting environment was crucial for Marc's relaunch. This included moving to a new location, aiming for diversity, and ensuring the church reflected the vision in their hearts.
4. Prayer and Persistence: Throughout the challenges, including the impact of COVID-19, persistent prayer for people, provision, and the presence of the Holy Spirit was key to keeping the vision alive and eventually seeing growth.
5. Build a Committed Team: Ensuring team members are aligned with the church's culture and vision is essential. Pastor Poland made tough decisions to ensure that those leading worship were part of the community and shared the church's values.
6. Adapt and Innovate: The church had to adapt during the pandemic, including using worship videos when in-person gatherings were not possible. However, they continued to innovate and find ways to engage the congregation.
7. Stay True to Your Vision: Despite the challenges and setbacks, staying true to the vision and mission of the church was crucial for its eventual success and growth.
I hope this blog post has provided valuable insights and inspiration for those considering or embarking on the journey of relaunching their church. The story of The Discover Church under Pastor Marc Poland's leadership is a powerful testament to the impact of perseverance, adaptability, and a clear vision. For more in-depth discussions and practical advice on church leadership, check out the latest episodes of the Believe Again podcast with Josh Roberie, available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. Embrace the possibilities, and let your faith community flourish anew.
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