This is part two in a two-part series. Read part one here.

Seven months ago, Capital City Church launched in the West Seventh neighborhood of St. Paul.  Their team had a vision before them: to spread God’s Kingdom to places and people that wouldn’t otherwise be reached.

A few years prior, God brought together two storylines in a way that only He can.  First Evangelical Free Church in Maplewood had stirrings of sending out a church plant, and Jordan Monson–one of First Free’s supported missionaries–was considering a transition out of Bible translation and into church planting.  Once they connected and decided to go for it, the rest moved quickly. Monson spent a year gathering the team, connecting with the District, and seeking what God would have this new church look like. What niche in His Kingdom plan was God asking them to fill?

A lot of coffee was consumed during a couple hundred conversations as the team came together: different people with different strengths and weaknesses complementing each other to be the body of Christ.  Again, God’s hand was evident as the core team formed.

As with any church plant, there have been obstacles to overcome the past seven months, but Capital City has stayed faithful, knowing that the labor they’ve been called to isn’t easy.  Life circumstances come up, changing plans. New churches naturally have less-established ministries and less experienced leaders. While they’re not having to reinvent the wheel, fine-tuning the details of Capital City takes discernment and work.

The flip side, though?  A closeness as they’re on mission together.  More opportunities for those who have never led before to do so.  The ability to be culture-makers as the church forms and grows. And of course, people who wouldn’t have otherwise known Christ are following Him.

Capital City Church is just one part of that mission in St. Paul, in Minnesota, and in the world.  While some are senders and others are sent, both are needed in Christ’s harvest. Both are vital to help contextualize the Gospel so that more people can hear.  Both sender and sent are used by God to spread His Kingdom, to bring near those who were once far away. Which one are you?

Special thanks to Pastor Jordan Monson of Capital City Church in St. Paul for sharing his church planting story.