The Ecclesia Network
March 24, 2008 – 9:33 am
One of our greatest desires in this move to Austin has been to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. We felt a need to connect with an organization that could offer relationships, encouragement and support. I am excited that we have connected with a network of churches known as The Ecclesia Network.
Finding a network like this has been a primary goal over the last year. Pathways was planted in partnership with the Christian Evangelistic Association. I’ve appreciated the heart of the CEA, and Pathways’ relationship with them. Unfortunately, they focus their work in the Pacific Northwest, which is exactly where Austin is not.
In our heart to move into the city of Austin with the relational emphasis of a missionary, I thought it was important to connect with a group that would understand what we are doing. There are many great organizations and denominations out there that are planting churches. I spoke with many of them. I even spoke with a few overseas missions organizations. When I began having conversations with some of the members of the Ecclesia Network, I knew I had found my peeps.
Ecclesia is a relational network of churches, leaders, and movements that seek to equip, partner, and multiply missional churches. The primary connection between these churches isn’t doctrine, although we are solidly grounded in the foundational creeds of Christianity. It also is not methodology, although we are committed to shaping church structures that work best in any given context. The primary connection is mission, with an understanding that this is where our greatest unity can be found.
I’m glad we can be part of Ecclesia. I look forward to deepening the relationships that I have found there, and finding ways that we can partner with other churches in the network for years to come.
