Security. Camaraderie. Ministry partnerships. These are just a few of the reasons other churches are seeking to join the Fellowship of Evangelical Churches, and they’re coming in record numbers. Consider this. Over the past 20 years, a total of six established churches have joined our fellowship through membership. That’s an average of about one church every three years. Compare that number to last year alone, where five churches have approached us about membership, and three or four will likely join by years’ end. Why the spike in numbers?
Certainly, the recent Supreme Court ruling has played a role in this development. Some independent, evangelical churches are seeking affiliation with us in part because of the protection that numbers bring, seeking a likeminded group with which to stand. Others, members of established denominations, no longer feel they can support the liberal leanings of their denominational leadership and are hoping to connect with a group that shares the values of their local congregation. Still other churches are drawn to our mission of establishing reproducing churches worldwide and want to come alongside us as ministry partners.
It’s important to note that just because a church wants to join us doesn’t mean automatic acceptance. Those decisions are made only after prayer and careful consideration. “Our goal is to multiply,” says Rocky Rocholl, president, “but it has to work for both sides. That said, if churches are truly a good fit with our mission and values, we will be glad to partner with them.”
