ARC Launches Successful Training Event for Future Church Planters in Minneapolis

Celebrating Growth and Community at ARC Launch Event

The recent ARC Launch training event took place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from June 1-2, 2026, bringing together aspiring church planters from the United States and Canada. Organized by the Association of Related Churches (ARC), this two-day event serves as a foundational step for individuals seeking to establish vibrant, life-changing churches in their communities.

Hosted at River Valley Church, the training was meticulously designed for leaders who are approximately six months to two years away from launching their church. The objective was clear: to equip attendees with practical tools, valuable insights, and the encouragement necessary for a healthy church planting journey.

During the event, attendees were introduced to a wealth of knowledge from seasoned pastors, experienced coaches, and ARC staff, who openly shared their personal journeys and challenges faced in church planting. This sharing of experiences provided invaluable perspectives for the participants as they prepared to embark on their own missions.

Key components of the training included essential aspects of launching a church, such as vision development, building a launch team, executing community outreach strategies, navigating church governance, and effective branding techniques. Furthermore, participants delved into fundraising strategies and learned how to maintain personal and spiritual well-being throughout the planting process.

Marc Cleary, the Director of Church Planting at ARC, emphasized the essence of faith and leadership in the church planting process: "Every church begins with a leader willing to take a step of faith. ARC Launch exists to help future church planters gain practical knowledge, build healthy relationships, and receive the encouragement they need as they prepare to bring hope to their communities through the local church."

The ARC Launch training event also served as an invaluable networking opportunity. Church planters connected with fellow leaders, laying the groundwork for relationships that would extend well past the training, creating a support system pivotal for their future endeavors. Such connections are vital in sustaining motivation and encouragement throughout the often challenging journey of establishing a new church.

As a critical component of ARC's church planting pathway, this event marked the third time in 2026 that the organization has welcomed diverse individuals and couples to its training sessions. Each participant shared a common desire: to spread the message of Jesus through the establishment of local churches.

ARC is committed to guiding future leaders by providing a clear understanding of the church planting process, which encompasses ongoing assessment, personalized coaching, and a robust support network through the resources available via ARC.

Looking ahead, the next ARC Launch event is set to occur from September 1-2, 2026, at Daybreak Church located in Carlsbad, California. This continuation of their mission to plant and nurture life-giving churches underscores ARC’s dedication to sustainable community growth.

For more information on the ARC Launch program and the associated resources for prospective church planters, please visit www.arcchurches.com/launch.

About the Association of Related Churches (ARC)

Established in 2000, ARC is a collaborative of independent churches united in the mission to plant and strengthen vibrant churches globally. Over the years, ARC has successfully launched more than 1,200 churches worldwide, consistently equipping church planters through comprehensive training, coaching, and ongoing support, facilitating their ability to effectively reach their local communities.