As the landscape of church ministry continues to evolve, a new generation of young leaders is emerging, eager to make an impact in their communities. Pastor Dino Rizzo, Executive Director of ARC (Association of Related Churches) and renowned for his leadership in church planting and community outreach offers valuable advice for Gen Z individuals considering venturing into church planting.
The journey of Noah Herrin and his wife, Maddy, a Gen Z couple who planted Way Church in Nashville, TN, is a great example of the next generation launching churches of their own. Their story serves as a testament to the principles outlined by Pastor Rizzo.
1. Embrace Your Unique Calling:
Dino Rizzo emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing one's unique calling. Noah and Maddy Herrin's decision to plant their church in Nashville stemmed from their deep love for the city. They identified with Nashville's vibrant culture and felt a strong calling to make a difference in the community they cherished.
2. Prioritize Relationship Building:
Building meaningful relationships within the community and fostering genuine connections with potential mentors and supporters is crucial. Dino Rizzo highlights the significance of cultivating strong relationships, as seen in Noah and his wife's journey. Their partnership with ARC (Association of Related Churches) was fueled by genuine connections and a shared vision, enabling them to receive valuable support and guidance.
3. Focus on Practical Ministry Needs:
Addressing practical needs within the community is a powerful way to demonstrate Christ's love and build bridges for gospel conversations. Following the example of Noah Herrin's parents, who prioritized meeting the practical needs of their community, Gen Z church planters can make a tangible impact by serving others. From providing food to supporting single mothers, practical ministry initiatives lay the groundwork for deeper spiritual engagement.
4. Create an Inclusive Environment:
Embracing inclusivity is essential for building a thriving church community. Noah and Maddy Herrin envisioned a church that welcomes individuals from all walks of life, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and accepted. Pastor Dino Rizzo advocates for creating an inclusive space where individuals feel respected and embraced, regardless of background or circumstance.
5. Stay Grounded in Timeless Principles:
While embracing innovation and adapting to changing trends, Rizzo underscores the timeless principles of ministry that remain unchanged. As seen in Noah and his wife's approach, foundational elements such as prayer, compassion, and kindness are integral to effective ministry. By staying grounded in these principles, young church planters can navigate challenges with resilience and authenticity.
By embracing their unique calling, prioritizing relationships, addressing practical needs, creating an inclusive environment, and staying rooted in timeless principles, young church planters can embark on a journey of impactful ministry. As Pastor Dino Rizzo explains, Noah Herrin and his wife's journey demonstrates that the path to successful church planting is paved with intentionality, passion, and a heart for serving others.
About Dino Rizzo
Dino Rizzo, a 35-year ministry veteran, co-founded Healing Place Church with his wife, DeLynn, where he served as senior pastor for two decades. Through his passion for inspiring believers to serve their communities, Dino Rizzo also founded Servolution.
In addition, Dino Rizzo is the Executive Director of the Association of Related Churches (ARC), where he oversees the planting of over 1,000 churches worldwide. He is also on the Senior Leadership Team at Church of the Highlands and is the author of Serve Your City: How to Do It and Why It Matters.
