Echoes of heartfelt callings

A decade ago, the lead pastor of your church (maybe that was you!) shared the story of how they were called to plant a church in our beloved Boston. Each narrative, though distinct, resonates with common themes that echo in our Christian body.

Over the years, it’s easy to get focused on the important work of administration, sermon preparations, pastoral care, and community outreach. But do you remember the spark that first kindled in your heart, calling you into this sacred work? Today, I invite you to pause and reminisce with me, to reconnect with that “first love” that led you to take part in shepherding a Boston church plant.

1. Formative ministry experiences

Many planters had previous roles that paved the way. Whether it was a training experience or a role in a different church, these experiences shaped your vision. 

“In the second year of seminary, I became a member of a church that was planting a church at the time.”

“I planted and pastored another church in the Boston area.”

Reflect: If there was a role or experience that paved the way for you, what spark did it ignite in you?

2. Spiritual promptings

Divine whispers, moments of profound spiritual insight, or direct callings from God have been pivotal.

“I would go into the city of Boston (like a tourist) and I sensed an unsettling in my spirit. I remember reading in Acts 17 when Paul said his spirit was provoked within him in a city of idols, and this resonated.”

“I felt that God called me and my wife to plant in (a Boston-area town). We saw the need in (that town). We were part of a mothering church plant that was wanting to plant.”

Reflect: What spiritual promptings do you remember that affirmed church planting as God’s direction for you?

3. Guidance and prayer

For some, guidance from mentors and the consistent practice of prayer illuminated the path.

“I was studying missions and culture in the UK, and I was praying, asking God for guidance about how to serve Him.”

“I met my current mentor and received a call to ministry while helping my mentor plant his church.”

Reflect: What mentors or peers were part of your journey toward church planting, and what spark did they ignite in you?

4. Personal connection to Boston

Boston wasn't just a random choice. Many of you felt a deep connection, perhaps a love for its culture or its vibrant spirit.

“Over a period of time, prayer, and visiting the region, I felt a call to church planting and to Boston in particular. It was a two-year process of prayer and talking to a lot of people and reading.”

“I had a natural bent of entrepreneurship and a deep love of Boston and the church.”

Reflect: What was your personal connection to the Boston area, and how has that grown in the past 10 years?

5. Practical considerations

Sometimes, the calling included strategic positioning, understanding the demographics, or recognizing the potential of the city.

“I took a short trip to Boston when praying about church planting and came back with the question, ‘Why not Boston?’ The need is great, nations are gathered there.”

“I came out of a church-planting movement with a strong emphasis on church planting and reaching college students. Boston had a high population in that demographic.”

Reflect: What was it about Boston that you felt drawn to?

Reigniting our passion

Feeling a little distant from those initial experiences? Here are some options for ways to reconnect:

• Revisit your story: Read through old journals or reflect on conversations that affirmed your calling.

• Connect with fellow planters: Share your stories. The journey of others can rekindle our own passion.

• Spend time in prayer: Ask God to remind you of the vision He placed in your heart and how it has developed.

• Take a city tour or prayer walk: Rediscover Boston. Fall in love with its streets, history, and people all over again.

• Awaken your creative mind: Take a moment to doodle, write a haiku, create a digital collage, or listen to a song that reflects your ministry journey.

Embracing the now

While it's essential to remember our beginnings, it's equally vital to recognize what keeps us going:

• Celebrate small wins: Every baptism, every new member, every small group gathering is a testament to your journey and God’s faithfulness.

• Connect your now with God: Tell God about the joys and hard truths you’re facing. Listen for what next thing God may want to do in your heart and church.

• Enjoy the community: Dive into one of Boston's community activities. The city’s pulse can offer fresh motivations.

• Refresh your mind: Attend workshops, read books, or join online communities. New knowledge can reignite passion.

• Seek input: Sometimes, your congregation sees things you might miss. Their perspectives can offer new insights and motivations.

• See the bigger picture: Connect with leaders from other churches in Boston. Breathe a sigh of relief that you and your community are just one part of God’s many-many-part mission in Boston. Whew, it’s not all on you!

As we reflect on our shared journey, I'd like to invite you to participate in Emmanuel Gospel Center’s 10-year follow-up interview. We want to explore with you what you most want and need to know about how churches have changed in recent years. 

This is a unique opportunity to learn from one another’s journeys over the past decade, and what a decade it’s been! Your insights, experiences, lessons, and stories will be invaluable, not only for us but also for new church planters and the broader church community.

Note: In the interest of readability and privacy, we’ve expanded the quotes above into full sentences and removed identifying information.