Whether you're a pastor preparing to plant your first church, an existing church seeking a fresh start, or a parent church ready to support a new congregation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Below, you’ll find a basic outline of the process tailored to the type of church community you’re looking to establish—with our team walking alongside you from vision to launch.
EVery journey starts witH the first step.
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Begin with an interview with the Plant SoCal Director or Assistant Director, complete the online Initial Screening Assessment (ISA), then we will help you determine the next steps and establish your start date.
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Discuss and confirm the parent church partnership. Then, hold a Zoom meeting with the planter and parent church pastor to complete the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The parent church will submit its official application, and both the application and MOU will be reviewed for final approval.
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If the planter already holds an Assemblies of God credential, confirm that it is valid in the Network or District where the church plant will take place; if not, initiate a credential transfer. If the planter does not have an AG credential, they should submit any Bible college transcripts to the SoCal Network. The planter should also contact the SoCal School of Ministry to determine any educational requirements. Once identified, they must complete all educational and additional requirements to obtain their credential.
This step is optional if you are starting an Online Church.
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If you’ve already been assessed and trained, submit your documentation to the Director for review. Otherwise, complete the online Full Screening Assessment followed by an approved church planter training. Once training is complete, begin monthly coaching calls with the Director for ongoing support and guidance.
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Confirm your launch date and submit a list of your launch team members (ages 16 and older) to the Director. Then, complete and submit your Church Plant application at least 30 days prior to launch.
CHURCH PLANT & ONLINE
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Begin with an interview with the Plant SoCal Director or Assistant Director.
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Discuss and confirm the parent church partnership. Then, hold a Zoom meeting with the planter and parent church pastor to complete the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The parent church will submit its official application, and both the application and MOU will be reviewed for final approval.
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Complete and submit Church Plant application 30 days before launch.
INTERNATIONAL PLANT
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Set up an interview with Plant SoCal Director orAssistant Director.
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Complete and submit Church RePlant application.
CHURCH REPLANT
MICROCHURCH
Smaller, intentionally simple groups of believers that typically meets in homes, coffee shops, or community spaces. Focused on discipleship, mission, and authentic community, micro churches are flexible, low-cost, and highly relational—making them effective for reaching people who may not engage in traditional church settings.
ONLINE CHURCH
A digital expression of church that allows people to gather, worship, and grow in faith through internet-based platforms. It removes barriers of location, mobility, and schedule, making it accessible to people who might not otherwise attend in person. Online church fosters community through live chat, virtual small groups, and is especially effective in reaching the unchurched, the homebound, or those exploring faith for the first time.
LOOKING FOR OTHER PLANTING MODELS?
We understand that the call to plant can take many forms—different planters, communities, and rhythms often lead to unique expressions of church. If you're exploring alternative models or approaches to planting, we invite you to take a look at these options and start a conversation with us about which one aligns best with your calling and context.
READY TO CONNECT?
We are here to answer your questions, and help you take the next step into your calling.