The Story of the New Hope and Emmanuel Relationship

Early on in the revitalization of Emmanuel, a small church in the northwest corner of CT reached out to Cary for advice and help in finding a new pastor. Over the course of a few conversations, the idea of a collaborative relationship between the two churches began to appeal to both sides.

Cary suggested to bring on a pastor that could be developed and encouraged by a mentoring relationship with Emmanuel. Andrew and Sarah Browning moved to CT in December of 2013 to begin replanting New Hope with the support and mentorship of Cary and Emmanuel. God has since blessed both congregations with significant growth both in gospel health and gospel fruit.

Possible Challenges of Collaboration

1. Loss of Autonomy

The smaller church in need of help must have the humility to ask. At times, churches can be so consumed with their autonomy that they refuse to ask for help from other churches. NH and EBC are two autonomous, self-supporting bodies that work together in the same region with the same gospel mission.

2. Overlap of People

When two churches partner together locally, there will naturally be an overlap of attenders. Both leaders must be secure in gospel identity and gospel calling to partner with another local body without having a spirit of competition between them.

3. Envy / Comparison

A close relationship between two churches can produce comparison and jealousy between the two leaders and the churches. Reject the “if only” comparisons and steward the ministry God has entrusted to you.

 4. Confusion of Churches

This can be a confusing thing for the churches to understand. Proper communication can solve the feelings of inferiority or superiority and make the relationship a real benefit to both congregations.