Development of New Congregations

The development of new congregations is a high priority in the ELCA. Local leaders in Synods envision and plan strategies to develop healthy and evangelizing congregations. EOCM connects, engages and accompanies these leaders in their role of making new disciples for Jesus Christ, who use their gifts for God’s kingdom in the church and in the world.

In partnership with synods and other expressions of the church, EOCM staff ensures that new congregations are planted and developed in a way that reflects the ELCA commitment to be in ministry among all diverse groups and settings in the USA and the Caribbean.

Through training, coaching opportunities, resources and support mechanisms, EOCM strives to equip new congregations to be:

a. Healthy: with capacity to act and grow.
b. Evangelizing: making new disciples.
c. Missional: with evangelical orientation.
d. Multiplying: generating new leaders and ministries.
e. Prophetic: working for peace and justice in the world.