CHURCH PLANTER TRAINING
The Church Planter Training Conference (CPTC) is an annual gathering of OPC church planters, RHMs, and interns. Planters discuss and learn about important biblical principles and other practical matters related to starting a new church. This year’s conference was hosted by Second Parish OPC in Portland, Maine—which happens to be the oldest congregation in the OPC.
General Secretary John Shaw spoke on topics like “Building a Culture of Evangelism” and “Taking Your Place.” Associate General Secretary Al Tricarcio presented on “Developing the Work,” as well as the steps a church plant should follow to become a particular congregation.
Kerri Ann Cruse, the OPC’s Video and Social Media Coordinator, provided feedback on each conference participant’s church website. Special presentations featured talks on ministry to the abused, a biblical approach to self-care, and hospitality in ministry. On the final day of the conference, representatives from Worldwide Outreach updated the planters on the denomination’s work in Foreign Missions, Christian Education, & more.
In addition to instruction, CPTC seeks to provide the church planter and his wife with an opportunity for refreshment and Christian fellowship. Conference participants enjoyed free time exploring the city of Portland and it’s beautiful ocean views.
MINISTERIAL TRAINING INSTITUTE
CHMCE-supported church planters are required to take three courses through the Committee on Christian Education’s Ministerial Training Institute. These courses are Reformed Evangelism, Homiletics, and Pastoral Theology. This summer, eight church-planting personnel studied Homiletics under Rev. Dale Van Dyke of Harvest OPC in Wyoming, MI, and Rev. Douglas Clawson, Associate General Secretary of the Committee on Foreign Missions.
NEW MEETING PLACE FOR THOUSAND OAKS PRES. CHURCH
Give thanks that Thousand Oaks Pres. has found a new building from which to rent! The Thousand Oaks Teen Center is a promising location for outreach and evangelism in the community.
This year your giving to Worldwide Outreach supported twenty-nine mission works, five church-planting interns, and eight regional home missionaries. Thank you for your prayerful support. Rejoice in all that the Lord has done for his church!
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