Planting a church is often described as a challenging journey filled with obstacles and unexpected twists. For Juan and Marisol Rodriguez, founders of Arise Church in Dorado, Puerto Rico, their journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the unwavering support of the Association of Related Churches (ARC). Below, the Rodriguezes share their experiences and insights into how ARC Churches can empower church planters to persevere through adversities.
The Rodriguezes’ journey began with a profound sense of calling to bring a life-giving church to Dorado, despite neither being native to the area. After encountering setbacks, including the loss of a ministry job, they found solace and guidance through ARC Churches. Their decision to immerse themselves in service within Highlands Church in Birmingham, Alabama, eventually led them to explore the possibility of planting a church in Puerto Rico.
Their vision was not without its challenges. Economic hardships, natural disasters like earthquakes, and even violence threatened to derail their mission. Yet, they remained steadfast in their conviction that God had called them to this path. Juan recalls the moment they decided to launch Arise Church, just days after a shootout near their church building. The adversity only strengthened their resolve.
The launch of Arise Church was a testament to their perseverance. Despite the hurdles, 264 individuals walked through their doors on launch day, with 27 making commitments to Christ. However, their trials were far from over. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to adapt rapidly, transitioning to online services and eventually launching bilingual services to cater to their diverse congregation.
Through it all, the Rodriguezes emphasized the importance of standing by their community. They shared stories of marriages restored, individuals finding faith, and communities transformed. Their message to aspiring church planters is one of encouragement and realism. They acknowledge the hardships but stress the necessity of unwavering commitment to the calling.
With their network of support and resources, ARC Churches play a pivotal role in assisting church planters through these challenges. From practical assistance to spiritual guidance, the Association of Related Churches (ARC) provides a framework for resilience and growth. The Rodriguezes’ journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring church planters, demonstrating that with faith, determination, and the right support system, anything is possible.
The journey of church planting is not for the faint of heart. It requires courage, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. Through the support of organizations like ARC Churches, church planters can navigate the challenges they face and emerge stronger on the other side. As Juan and Marisol Rodriguez’s story illustrates, perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to profound transformation, both for individuals and communities alike.
About the Association of Related Churches (ARC)
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) represents a collaborative network comprising independent congregations from various denominations, networks, and backgrounds. Its primary mission is to provide essential support and resources to church planters and pastors, enabling them to effectively share the teachings of Jesus Christ. ARC’s operational approach revolves around empowering and equipping church leaders, thus helping them foster the widespread dissemination of Christ’s life-changing message. Established in 2000, the Association of Related Churches has evolved into a worldwide entity and has played a pivotal role in facilitating the establishment of over 1,000 new churches globally.
