Church Starters Initiative
Encouraging new expressions of Baptist ministry
The Church Starters Initiative (CSI), an emerging leadership effort of ABHMS, supports pastors and ministry leaders in planting new congregations or developing innovative forms of Christian community.
Through cohort learning, mentorship, and shared reflection, the initiative encourages leaders responding to God’s call to start ministries tailored to their communities' needs.
Participants come from diverse cultural backgrounds, ministry models, and geographic regions across the United States. Together, they form a growing network of leaders dedicated to creative and faithful expressions of Baptist ministry.
A collaborative cohort experience
The CSI unites ministry leaders in a group designed to engender encouragement, learning, and practical support. Participants follow a rhythm of online and in-person meetings where they:
Share their ministry stories and visions for new congregations
Reflect on the challenges and opportunities of starting churches
Learn from mentors and experienced ministry leaders
Explore leadership practices that strengthen new ministries
Build relationships with fellow church starters across the country
This collaborative approach allows leaders to learn from each other while enhancing their own ministries.
Leadership development for emerging ministries
The CSI concentrates on preparing leaders for the unique realities of launching or revitalizing congregations in today’s communities.
Throughout the program, participants examine topics
Leadership development and spiritual resilience
Community engagement and cultural awareness
Mission strategy and congregational development
Collaboration within the broader American Baptist community
These discussions help leaders strengthen their clarity, confidence, and connection as they lead new ministry initiatives.
A vision for the future
The CSI demonstrates ABHMS’s ongoing commitment to develop Christ-centered leaders and support the growth of Christian communities in various settings.
As the initiative progresses, ABHMS aims to foster an expanding network of church starters who encourage one another, exchange insights across different ministry contexts, and strengthen the witness of American Baptist congregations nationwide.
A shared calling. A growing movement.
The Church Starters Initiative is forming a network of leaders responding to God’s call in communities across the country. Whether you are discerning your next step or seeking to support new expressions of ministry, there is a place for you here.
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Stay Informed as Opportunities Grow
Receive updates from the program facilitator about upcoming cohorts, partnerships, and ways to engage with the CSI.
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Build Meaningful Connections
Engage with ministry leaders and peers who share your calling, where you can exchange wisdom and walk alongside one another in a secure, supportive space.
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Support New Ministry Beginnings
Help nurture emerging congregations and the leaders called to guide them into being through your giving to ABHMS.