There are three stages in the cycle of starting a New Worshiping Community: Discerning, Starting, and Leading
01. Discerning
Are you thinking about starting something new, but you still aren’t sure?
We invite those who are discerning to join us as they explore their ideas and dreams.
As a part of this process, we encourage you to meet with a coach, therapist or spiritual director. We have a network of local professionals who will thoughtfully allow you to discuss all that arises as you discern.
Secondly, we invite you to our discerner gatherings to develop community with like-minded individuals. You will meet new people who, like you, are dreaming about starting something.
Check out this video from our partners at Cyclical to learn more:
02. Starting
Has Discernment made it clear that you are ready to Start a community?
It is a very exciting process to start a New Worshiping Community, but we know that it can often be exhausting, too.
As a Starter, you will continue a relationship with your coach, spiritual director or therapist.
We also invite you to connect with other starters who may be experiencing many of the same challenges that you are. We will host periodic gatherings for Starters to build community and support with one another.
We encourage you to apply for a Seed Grant through the 1001 New Worshiping Community movement. This one-time $10,000 grant is designed to support you in your initial stages of developing community.
Check out this video from our partners at Cyclical to learn more:
03. Leading
Have you started something that you are ready to take to the next level?
After discerning and taking the initial steps to start a community, you become a New Worshiping Community Leader. As a leader, we want to continue to support you toward sustainability and regeneration, ultimately developing new leaders within your community.
You will continue a relationship with a coach, spiritual director, or therapist and periodically meet in community with other NWC leaders.
You will also have the option to apply for the Investment and Growth grants through the 1001 New Worshiping Community movement. These $30,000 grants are designed to help you grow and sustain your community. Additional grants and funding may be available depending on your community’s continuing growth and development.