October 2005

Pastor Mike Hanlon and his leadership team decided to take the road less traveled for the future of their community of Brownsburg, Indiana. They closed their doors! You are probably saying, “WHAT?” Yes, that’s right. They had observed for some time the signs of an ingrown church which was not reaching the harvest fields in this growing suburb west of Indianapolis. After many attempts and programs they felt like the Lord was leading them to close their doors and allow God to raise up a “new planting.”

For years church growth and church planting specialists have concluded that in some cases churches should be restarted from scratch as opposed to the typical renewal approach or major overhauls which might be required to stimulate fresh growth. In April, New Life at Brownsburg held its last official church gathering and proceeded to sell their church building and land. Immediately, other existing churches demonstrated interest and in a matter of months the property was sold. But, what does a church which is closing down do with the profits of the sale after the bills are paid?

“Sow them for the future!” Pastor Hanlon explains that their desire to see a thriving, healthy charismatic church in their county had not diminished. Determined to see that vision become a reality they placed a significant sum of money into a account and designated it for a future church plant. Most church planters will tell you that the lack of funding is a major obstacle to a successful plant. In this case, the spiritual leaders of New Life were determined that it would not be the case here.

Over the next months, leaders of Vanguard Ministries will conduct a recruiting drive to identify people interested in a church planting team for Brownsburg, Indiana. In addition, a lead pastor for the new church will be selected. The Apostolic Team of Vanguard Ministries will hold the donated funds which will be invested in the future church plant. “There is a sense of excitement over what lies ahead for this area”, explained Pastor Hanlon. Hanlon and the leaders of New Life are courageous enough to dream and committed enough to lay down what they had so the future could be brighter for their community.