New Church New Way Novemer 2021

When the world shut down in March 2020, many of us working to support the work of starting new churches expected that the number of new worshiping communities launching would take a sharp drop, and we wondered how long it would take for things to recover. In a typical year, the Presbyterian Mission Agency funds about 50–55 Seed Grants for the launch of new worshiping communities. Last year, that number did drop sharply — to fewer than 30 new seed grants awarded. However, in 2021, still in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic, applications for seed grants have rebounded to 50 new communities starting across the PC(USA) this year. The Spirit’s work has not stopped. God is still doing new things among us, and faithful and courageous disciples are still answering that call in spite of all of the unknowns and changes around us. The rest of this newsletter shares stories from across the 1001 network — stories of resilience and hope, reminders of God’s promise to be with us always. As 2021 draws to a close and we dare to imagine a new year, we are grateful for the goodness of God, the continued invitation to join the Holy Spirit in calling new disciples, and the beautiful glimpses of God’s reign among us. Nikki 1001 National Coordinator

1001 NWC 2020 leader report A survey finds that nearly 40% of NWC participants are unchurched, affiliated with another religion or expressed no religious faith — but the number of adult baptisms in NWCs stands out. Learn more →

Spiritual Fortitude 1001 NWC launches a monthlong series beginning with wisdom of experience articulated by the Rev. Dr. Brian McLaren. Learn more →

Money Matters An ecumenical gathering highlights ways NWCs build financial support — and as NWC leader the Rev. Miriam Mauritzen says, "Our God is generous. It is our job to keep up." Read more →

1001 ‘New Way’ podcast A conversation with Christian Youth educator Gina Yeager-Buckley, who cut up her Bible as a 3-year-old, kicks off season eight. Hear story →

NWC retreats are ‘lifesaving endeavors’ As she waits for the Nov. 15–16 retreat inviting spiritual leaders to "Wait Upon the Lord," the Rev. Libby Tedder Hugus shares her poem "Cherish," which came to her at the August retreat. Read, then register →

Gifts of Support Like many of our traditional churches, new worshiping communities are evaluating what they have learned over the past 20 months, and how to move forward. For some, this means a "restart," an intentional regathering of people together to be reminded that, despite all the pain and loneliness brought by the pandemic, God has been faithful. During this time, the resources 1001 provides — to assess, train, coach, fund and to simply be present with those trying to find their way — are in even more demand. Consequently, this moment is a particularly important and impactful time to provide financial support. Send your checks made out to 1001 New Worshiping Communities to Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), P.O. Box 643700, Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700. Or click on the button below to make your gift online. Donate →

What is a Matthew 25 church? Matthew 25 is a living translation of Jesus Christ — strengthening relationships, transforming your church, and bringing alive your commitment to "serve the least of these" - those who are marginalized or in need — in your community and the world around us. Make no mistake, Jesus is calling us to perform ordinary acts of compassion in daily life. But we have also been called to consider the factors that led to these conditions, to confront the causes of inequality, to confess the sin of greed and to correct the problem of poverty — whether in our own nation and neighborhood, or around the world. Read more →

Coronavirus/COVID-19 Resources for Congregations and Members

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