In 2022, hot-button issues have divided the U.S. population and the world at large–issues like politics, racial strife, covid policies, and war. Churches have felt the impact, too; however, churches also represent a unique place for unity around a common mission despite other differences. Within the Fellowship of Evangelical Churches (FEC) a diverse group of churches are united around a common mission. Churches in FEC represent traditional and nontraditional worship, 100-year-old churches and six-month-old church plants and pastors with differing theological backgrounds such as Arminianism and Calvinism. Over the last 15 years, the number of churches in FEC has doubled, bringing more diversity in cultural backgrounds and outreach.
In July, FEC church leaders will gather at LIFEGATE Church in Denver, Colorado, for two days, July 21-22, to unite around our common mission–our commitment to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and establish reproducing churches worldwide. As president Rocky Rocholl says, “We are united in non-negotiables, around the mission of establishing reproducing churches, and we are united through our shared work in the Great Commission and the Great Commandment.” Holding the conference in Denver is itself a statement of the fellowship’s growth. Historically, FEC churches primarily populated midwestern states–Ohio, Indiana, Illinois–but this year we celebrate westward growth.
One of the guest speakers, Larry Osborne, author of Sticky Teams, wrote, “The health and long-term effectiveness of any ministry begins with the health and unity of its primary leadership teams.” As president, Rocky has emphasized both the health and unity of our leaders. This year’s conference theme, “Banded Together,” will serve as a declaration for the 150-year-old fellowship to stay focused on our mission in the midst of growth and change. Osborn expresses the challenge this way: “Jesus predicted church growth, but he prayed for unity!”
