The Sending Network

FRIENDS ADVANCING THE MISSION OF JESUS

ORIGINS

In 2018, intentional exploration of leaving the RCA began with the forming of the Vision 2020 TeaIn the fall of 2020, leaders from four churches began exploring the idea of a regional network.

We decided it would be best to define a network with a smaller group.

We are not trying to exclude but also not trying to recruit.

Anyone who aligns in spirit is welcome to join.

We are content to remain a very small network.

CREDENTIALING

We will recognize already credentialed pastors whose churches join the network.

We will initially continue with Commissioned Pastor competencies through Coram Deo for new candidates.

We will eventually review competency requirements that are RCA specific and possibly make adjustments.

We will explore developing a seminary track for those desiring that option.

NOTEWORTHY AFFIRMATIONS

We affirm that both women and men are called and gifted for leadership in ministry.

We affirm the full expression of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

We affirm celibate singleness and faithful heterosexual marriage.

We affirm being gracious to all people including those with whom we disagree.

THE SENDING NETWORK IS…

…not a confessional network, it is a missional network.

…not presbyterian it is congregational.

…not decision-making assemblies, it is gatherings that connect ministry leaders.

…not limited to (former) RCA churches, it is for ministries in the region who want to partner together.

…not exclusive, it is open yet defined.

…not closed, it allows for relationships outside the network.

…not seeking support for its own mission, but seeking to support each other’s ministries in our region.

ROLES OF THE NETWORK

  1. Facilitates organic connection of ministry leaders to provide relational support and encouragement to on another.

  2. Train and certify pastors/leaders for congregations and missional ministries.

  3. Provide guidance and support for congregations going through leadership transitions or challenging situations.

  4. Offer opportunities to support or collaborate in planting churches or missional ministries.

  5. Organizational collaboration on best business practices, legal matters, human resource issues, etc.

WHAT WE VALUE

  • Developing Bible-centered, Spirit-empowered, Disciple-making disciples of Jesus Christ.

  • Expressing the gospel of God’s kingdom in a way that transforms our communities.

  • Identifying, training, and empowering leaders of all generations for the multiplication of ministry.

  • Demonstrating a servant-hearted attitude of kindness, humility and generosity to all people.

  • Operating with personal relationships as the authority base from which we minister & partner.

STRUCTURE OF THE NETWORK

Network Gatherings: Leaders from network churches gather 1-3 times a year for some combination of connecting leaders, celebrating regional ministry, reporting on opportunities, equipping each other, as well as worshiping, praying and sharing life together.

Executive Team: Provides oversight and decision-making for the network.

Leadership Development Team: Oversees the training programs and certification of congregational leaders/pastors.

Specialized advisors/staff: May be identified and recognized if and as needed depending on the needs and size of the network.

COST OF THE NETWORK

  • Most costs should be handled by host churches for events/meetings.

  • If the network becomes a size where workloads or coordination becomes too burdensome, stipends or staffing may be recommended. Churches would pay these costs in proportion to their size.

ACCOUNTABILITY OF THE NETWORK

Pastors/leaders accountable to their church/ministry organization.

Leaders from the network will assist ministries with transitions/challenges if invited to do so.

Ministries annually renew a covenant affirming their connection with the network and support for its roles, values and belief statements.

Concerns within the network are handled interpersonally through the executive team.

In a (very unlikely) worst case scenario a church could be asked to leave the network by a majority vote of the executive team.

STATEMENT OF FAITH

The churches involved in birthing this network primarily derive from a Reformed historical and theological heritage. At the same time we embrace a generous orthodoxy with those who come from other orthodox Christian traditions. While a shared theology can be very important to a local church’s identity, the call to be in mission with the Holy Spirit is the highest value in proclaiming the lordship of Jesus Christ to a fallen and broken, yet valuable, world. We seek to be churches who live out this value without compromising the truth of Scripture.