by David Dixon, Executive Director, Eastern PA Alliance District
Could it be that a powerful movement is taking root?
Our district is witnessing a surge in church planting efforts, with nine church plant projects currently in some stage of development. Each of these initiatives represents a new or re-fortified church community ready to bring the Gospel into neighborhoods across our region.
From the streets of South Philly to the riverside town of Shamokin Dam, from the historic city of Lancaster to the western edges of Williamsport, new churches are forming each with its unique vision and calling. These aren't just buildings or programs; they're living, breathing communities of believers committed to sharing the love of Christ.
Take, for instance, the Foundry Church in Berwick. As it approaches its first birthday, it has already seen multiple people come to faith and has become a spiritual home for many who haven’t stepped foot in church in years. Or consider the faith-filled, five-year plan of York Alliance, aiming to plant three churches in York County, with their first being a re-plant in Spring Grove set to launch on November 3.
These stories of growth and renewal aren't isolated incidents. They're part of a larger vision for our district to see regional multiplication through disciple-making. We're working to cultivate a culture where every church sees their potential to nurture and send out new church communities.
This vision is for every believer who feels the call to be part of Jesus’ mission. Whether you're a pastor or church member, there's a place for you in this Kingdom movement. Perhaps God is calling you to launch a new expression of your church in a new part of your community. Or perhaps God is giving you a dream for church planting in a nearby town.
What would it look like for your church to engage with Jesus’ mission to make disciples?
As we look toward a future of multiplication, we envision that church planting will be driven more and more by local churches and regions. This isn't just about funding or numbers; it's about ownership. It's about each church taking responsibility for owning the lostness of their regions and equipping people in their church to proclaim the Gospel in their neighborhoods. If the Lord would allow, this would result in a multiplication movement that could see us launching five or more churches every year, ensuring that more and more people in Eastern PA would have the opportunity to hear the Gospel.
The harvest is plentiful, and workers are being prepared. From development cohorts, to residency programs, to coaching initiatives, we want our district to be a place where the next generation of church planters and leaders are equipped with the tools to have a significant Gospel impact in our world today.
With this next month being Church Planting Month, and with our District Conference on the horizon, let’s continue to pray boldly and see where the Lord is asking us to step out in faith toward multiplication. The story of church planting in Eastern PA is still being written. Will you join us in this journey of Gospel multiplication across our district?
Together, with Jesus’ help, we can create a landscape of thriving, disciple-making churches that bring hope, love, and the message of Jesus to every corner of Eastern Pennsylvania.
