Your vision. Our soil. Let’s grow together.
Explore how to apply for New Church status and funding in the Southwest Region.
Planting a New Church in the Southwest Region
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to follow everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
The Path to New Church Formation
The CCSW Region New Church Team supports New and affiliating worshiping communities. We especially seek to partner with worshiping communities doing and being church in bold and creative ways and a church that reflects the diversity and wholeness of God’s kingdom. The process from an idea to planning, to sharing a vision, to gathering God's people together, is filled with a unique calling and passion to serve God and the community. We will walk with you in the bonds of covenant.
The Southwest Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) supports emerging faith communities through a two-phase process: Prepare the Soil and Bloom. Whether you're dreaming of a worshiping community in a storefront, a park, or a shared church space, we’ll walk alongside you.
Phase One – Prepare the Soil
This phase focuses on discernment, planning, and forming a core team. It typically takes 6–24 months and includes mentorship from the Region’s New Church Minister.
Letter of Intent
Outline your vision and ecclesial marks (worship, teaching, service, etc.)
Preliminary Budget
Plan for expenses, funding sources, and sustainability.
Attend Leadership Academy
Training is provided for your team; costs are covered in part or full.
Covenantal Agreement
Understand and commit to Disciples identity, unity, and autonomy.
Explore Gathering Space
Options include nesting, rentals, or creative partnerships.
Mission, Vision & Values
Develop and refine these as your church grows.
Grow Your Team & Story
Host dinners, share the Lord’s Supper, and build momentum.
Phase Two – Bloom
Once approved, your new church becomes a Church in Formation. This five-year journey focuses on deepening identity, expanding reach, and preparing for full recognition.
Milestone 1:
Worship Service of Recognition
Milestone 2:
Apply Annually for Tiered Funding
(80% → 10% over 5 years)
Milestone 3:
Complete Ordination & Hire Pastor
Milestone 4:
Submit Annual Financial Reports
Milestone 7:
Submit ALEX Reports
Milestone 5:
Participate in Regional & General Assemblies
Milestone 8:
Draft Governance Docs by Year 5
Milestone 6:
Attend Cohorts & Learning Retreats
Milestone 9:
Prepare for Full Congregational Status
Get in Touch
Ready to take the next faithful step?
Perhaps, God Calling You?
Do you sense the need for new Disciples of Christ congregations in the CCSW Region?
Do you have a passion for exploring new ways of being church?
We invite you to take the journey with us!
Contact Rev. Dr. Darren Phelps, Community Regional Minister @ dphelps@ccsw.org
Visit https://www.ccsw.org/privacy-policy for our privacy policy and for our SMS Terms of Service.
Applying for New Church Status & Funding
Resources
Resources
Download Full Process Document (PDF)
Covenantal Agreement Template
Leadership Academy Information
Annual Budget Sample
Frequently Asked Questions
We will add links as we create them - thank you for your patience!
All resources below coming soon