The Association of Related Churches drew dozens of aspiring church leaders to Minneapolis this summer for foundational instruction on establishing new congregations.
The ARC Launch event, held June 1-2 at River Valley Church, brought together church planters from across the United States and Canada for a two-day workshop on starting a new faith community. Participants learned about vision development, building launch teams, community engagement strategies, governance structures, branding, fundraising and personal wellness during the startup phase.
Marc Cleary, the organization's Director of Church Planting, said the event serves as an entry point for aspiring church leaders typically six months to two years away from launching their congregations.
"Every church begins with a leader willing to take a step of faith," Cleary said. "ARC Launch exists to help future church planters gain practical knowledge, build healthy relationships, and receive the encouragement they need as they prepare to bring hope to their communities through the local church."
The Minneapolis gathering was the third ARC Launch training of 2026 and drew individuals and couples from varied ministry backgrounds, according to the organization.
Participants heard from experienced pastors and ARC staff who have planted churches across different communities. The two-day format also allowed attendees to form connections with fellow church planters.
ARC, a cooperative of independent churches operating since 2000, says it has helped launch more than 1,200 churches globally. The organization provides training, coaching and resources to church planters.
The next Launch training is scheduled for September 1-2, 2026, at Daybreak Church in Carlsbad, California. More information is available on the organization's website.
