This past year was a tremendous one for both blessings and growth. I began my coaching with Eric Metcalf in December of last year, and I have learned so much about planting churches and the different kinds of church plants, such as microchurches. Microchurches are small, informal church communities that focus on building relationships, intimacy, and disciple-making. They often meet in coffee shops, homes, and even apartment complexes. This is where my focus will be as I partner with the Flourish Vertical Communities and plant two microchurches in 2025.
Since May, I have been spending time at both Y Gardens and Nordic Landing, getting to know the residents and building relationships. These two apartments are both income-based and cater to low-income families in West Springfield. Both of these locations also have 8 units dedicated to kids aging out of foster care. By going into these apartments and getting to know the residents, I am building trust while learning what their greatest concerns or needs are. I have been attending monthly community events and having weekly office hours at these apartments allowing residents to get to know me as well.
We recently wrapped up a women’s Bible Study at Nordic Landing, and I was completely blown away by the spiritual and community growth I witnessed in just six short weeks. The first week, the women were hesitant to open up or share any of their thoughts about the study, let alone anything related to their personal lives. By week six, these same women shared their struggles openly through tears, hugs, and prayer requests. Seeing God move in their lives has been so uplifting and encouraging, and seeing their spirit for community spread beyond the Bible Study has been a gift of the Holy Spirit.
I am so excited to take the next step toward church planting in the new year and cannot wait to see God continue to work in my own heart as well as the hearts of all the residents I encounter. A great takeaway from my coaching is this phrase: “Kingdom over Castle,” and as a part of a church that is Christ Centered and Community Focused, I know our desire is to win hearts for Jesus both inside and outside the walls of Schweitzer. If you would like to know more about what is happening in the Vertical Communities or would like to support this mission, contact me at staylor@schweitzer.church, I would love to discuss it more with you!