Coaching is essential to the mission of the Center for Church Multiplication as we support and coach church planters and connect them to each other and the church multiplication tools, resources and research they need.

We recognize that the landscape for church planting has dramatically shifted. The long-established models and approaches are becoming less effective in today’s dynamic, digital, and increasingly diverse world. Church planters today face complex, evolving challenges, and they need coaching that equips them for real-time needs while honouring their spiritual mission.

With this in mind, the coaching team at CCM explores ten topics during coaching sessions with CCM grant recipients which address current realities in church planting:

Christ-Centered Leadership

At the core of every church plant is a commitment to Christ-centeredness. This extends beyond just the message—it must be reflected in leadership styles, decision-making, and community building. Planters need guidance on keeping their focus on Christ’s mission while leading in a rapidly changing context.

Missional Imagination & Innovation

In today’s world, church planting is about reimagining what the Church could be. We foster creativity in planters, pushing them to step beyond traditional models and explore and experiment with new ways of being and building Christ’s church. Missional imagination is about seeing the possibilities of God’s kingdom in every neighborhood, every community, and every demographic.

Reaching Non-Believers & Holistic Evangelism

Evangelism today must be holistic, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals. How do we reach people who are skeptical or disillusioned with the Church? This topic addresses modern evangelism strategies that go beyond simple proclamation to include acts of justice, mercy, and service.

Leadership Development in a Co-Leadership Culture (APEST)

Church planters must not only develop their leadership skills but also create a co-leadership culture where leadership is shared and all voices are heard. The APEST framework (Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Shepherd, Teacher) plays a crucial role in establishing a healthy team dynamic.

Contextualization & Community Engagement

Understanding and learning their local community is a must for every church planter. Ethnography, or community listening, allows planters to dive deep into the local culture—its needs, hopes, and barriers to the gospel. This knowledge becomes the foundation for adapting the message of the church to connect deeply with the community.

Financial Models and Kingdom Generosity

A sustainable financial model is essential for the long-term health of a church plant. We address new financial strategies for church plants, exploring alternative models, leveraging digital tools, and fostering a culture of generosity that supports the mission without falling into outdated practices.

Spiritual Formation & Soul Care

Church planting can be gruelling and maintaining spiritual vitality is critical. This topic focuses on the planter’s spiritual health, emphasizing the need for personal soul care, prayer, and emotional resilience. Planters are encouraged to care for their souls before attempting to lead others.

Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution

Managing teams and navigating conflicts is one of the greatest challenges for church planters. This topic explores team-building strategies, the dynamics of co-leadership, and conflict resolution skills to maintain a healthy, collaborative, and mission-focused team environment.

Digital Discipleship & Online Engagement

In an age of rapid digital transformation, church planters need to understand how to engage with people both in person and online. This includes building a robust online presence, using technology to foster discipleship, and determining what can and cannot be done online versus in person.

The Role of AI in Church Planting

The advent of artificial intelligence has significant implications for church planting. How can AI enhance outreach, discipleship, and community engagement? What does it look like to incorporate technology into the mission of the church in ways that maintain authenticity while reaching new audiences?