Summer 2003 Rapport: Church Planting
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From the Front Lines: Two Methods of Funding
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Below— Anthony’s Team (left to right): Scott Evans
(M.A.C.M. 2003), Peter Landers (M.A.T.S. 2002), Anthony Scoma (M.Div. 2002), Chris
McCool (student), Ruben Ruiz (student), Stacy Teel (M.A.I.M. 2002, not pictured).
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Mothering
Anthony Scoma (M.Div. 2002)—Anthony led a team of five AGTS alumni and students
to plant a church in Austin, Texas. As the discipleship pastor at James River Assembly
of God, Springfield, Mo., for four years, Anthony had spoken with Pastor John Lindell
about the possibility of planting a church on many occasions. In that time, James River
had planted two other churches. This past February, during their missions convention,
the pastor gave Anthony a seven-minute window during each morning service to share his
vision with the church. The pastor then made an appeal for people to go with them. Thirteen
families committed to make the move.
“James River is being very generous,” said Anthony. “The money they provide
will cover my salary for a year, start up costs and a nest egg towards eventual land purchase.
The North Texas district and Austin section are also supporting us with monthly funds.”
The other team members will either raise their own support and/or get second jobs until
the church can pay them.
Tent-making
Mickey Best (M.Div. 1993)—Mickey planted a seeker-targeted church in Madison,
Wis., in 1998. He works full-time in computer support to provide for his family while
pastoring. “Having to work full-time and pastor isn't the end of the world,”
said Mickey. “God has given us strength, provided people to help with the church,
taught some valuable corporate lessons, given opportunities to share Christ, and given
us tremendous joy. I know doing ‘double duty’ seemed like the beginning of the
end to me at one time. I've heard other church planters get discouraged at the thought.
That hasn't been the case for us. We've put a lot of thought in how to balance family
and work and more work, and it’s worked out well.”
Updated:
Wednesday, November 12, 2003 2:21 PM
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