Launching Churches
Church planting is a calling that demands everything—which is why no planter should carry it alone. Through Care that steadies your soul, Clarity that guides your steps, and Connection that surrounds you with trusted partners, Harbor Network walks with church planters from vision to launch and beyond.
Ed Marcelle, Director of Church Planting and Multiplication
“We believe healthy planters, formed in community, are the seedbed for lasting churches.”
Resources & Support for Church Planters
Launching a church requires more than vision—it requires partnership. Harbor provides comprehensive support throughout your planting journey, from financial resources to ongoing coaching and community.
• Residency
We train church planters in community and in a church.
• Financial Support
Approved church planters receive renewable financial grants over their first three years, providing critical funding as they establish their church.
• Moorings Retreat
An annual gathering designed specifically for church planters in their first three years, offering renewal, relationship-building, and specialized training.
• Coaching Collectives
Peer-to-peer coaching connects you with other planters for regular support, guidance, and shared learning as you navigate the planting journey.
• Continuing Education
Regular online sessions with seasoned leaders provide ongoing development on topics crucial to sustaining and growing your church plant.
Visit our Member Benefits page for a list of benefits, resources, and services available to planters.
OUR PROCESS
FAQs
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Church planter assessments take place in different locations around the country depending on need and availability.
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We typically offer (2) assessments per year; Spring & Fall.
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We recommend planters consider assessment when they are in the Infancy stage (12-18 months from launching) or further along in the planting process. The infancy stage can be described as taking official first steps in planting the church such as establishing prayer support, recruiting a core team to the plant, raising funds, moving into the targeted area, etc.
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The assessment fee is $1,000, but there are additional costs for the alignment call ($25) and the Prepare Enrich assessment ($35). Planters will also be responsible for their travel to the assessment site. Their hotel stay and meals while at assessment will be covered by Harbor.
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No, we do not provide childcare at assessment. Children under 18 months are welcomed to join the planting couple.
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We believe that a sending church is a crucial aspect in the church planters journey and place a high value on having a sending church launch planters. If a planter does not have a sending church, we will inquire why they do not. While it is possible for planters to gain partnership into Harbor without a sending church it is rare.
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At this current time we do not have the capacity to serve pastors and leaders outside of the United States. However, our resources found on our website are more than available to you as you navigate planting internationally.
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Yes, Harbor Network allows dual affiliation.
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While there are many benefits you’ll experience that cannot be understood until they are felt, you can read a list of benefits on the Member Benefits page here.