Our Church Plants

Why do we plant churches?

We believe the clear example of Scripture and the commission of Jesus to make disciples is best accomplished in the planting of new churches. Dr. Timothy Keller writes: "The vigorous, continual planting of new congregations is the single most crucial strategy for 1) the numerical growth of the Body of Christ in any city, and 2) the continual corporate renewal and revival of the existing churches in a city. Nothing else - not crusades, outreach programs, para-church ministries, growing mega-churches, congregational consulting, nor church renewal processes - will have the consistent impact of dynamic, extensive church planting." (full article here)

What is the name of the church plant?

Living Grace Community Church

When & where will they meet?

Every Sunday beginning June 7th at 10:00 am at Independence High School in the Performing Arts Center, 8001 Old River Road, Bakersfield, CA.

Do they have a website?

www.livinggracebakersfield.com

How was the location of the church plant determined?

After a good deal of research, we learned that southwest Bakersfield is the fastest growing area of our community and that there are only a few churches located there.

Who from RiverLakes is going to Living Grace?

A core group of about 100 people, two elders, and Brian Murphy will go as missionaries to southwest Bakersfield.

How much money will RiverLakes give to Living Grace for start up costs?

To date, Living Grace has raised $26,000 to cover start up costs from sources outside of RiverLakes. The remaining start-up costs are approximately $55,000. We're hopeful that a good portion of these costs will be met by the special love offering on May 10th. The "start-up costs" are the costs of necessary items and expenses such as a sound system, worship items, Sunday School classroom materials, and a trailer in which to store everything. These are mostly one time items to help them initially get started.

How will RiverLakes pay for the start-up costs not covered by the love offering?

The Board of Elders has voted to pay for any uncovered start-up costs from RiverLakes funds.

Considering our current giving deficit and state of the economy in general, why are we continuing with plans for the church plant?

Because we still believe it is a key priority to the ministry God has given us. We had committed to planting a church before we were in our current deficit situation and still believe it is a strategic part of the ministry God will bless as we trust Him and move forward. These can be trying times but our God is always faithful and wherever God guides He provides.

Is Living Grace a part of RiverLakes or an independent church?

Living Grace will serve as a mission of RiverLakes for the first year and its operating budget will fall under the RiverLakes budget during that period of time. Lord willing, Living Grace will then become an independent daughter church of RiverLakes.

Will RiverLakes and Living Grace Church ever do things together?

Yes. While the churches will largely operate independently, we will work together in the cause of the gospel and intend to partner in ministry from time to time.

Will RiverLakes ever plant more churches?

As the Lord provides leaders, we hope to plant as many churches in as many different locations and settings as He allows.