en Multiplying healthy churches across Texas and Oklahoma! http://www.efcatxok.org © Copyright 2000 - 2010Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54&article_id=100 Download a brochure NOW Download a poster NOW Register Now $10 late fee added after 9/1/2010. Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:16:19 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56&article_id=79 Register Now Why Attend? Because you want to have a more effective ministry! Will Mancini will be a major help to you. He is helping the EFCA on a national level, and he can help you on your local church level. We are fortunate to have him as our presenter! Who Should Attend? Church staff and leaders When and Where? Dates: October 18-19, 2010 Location: Twin Oaks Ranch in Buda, Texas. http://www.twinoranch.com/ Cost: $39 per individual. ($79 after October 15). Time: Noon Monday to noon Tuesday. Lunch on Monday and breakfast on Tuesday will be provided. You will need to bring cash for dinner on Monday evening at the famous Salt Lick Restaurant. "I strongly encourage you to join us for what promises to be a profitable and rich time with Will Mancini and other pastors and church leaders." Dr. Bob Rowley Payment should be paid at the time of registration. Upon completion of the form a confirmation page will appear on your screen. At the bottom of the screen you will be able to pay with a credit card. Register Now Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:44:18 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=35 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=35&article_id=47 We are presently praying for you and your wife as you work through the process of determining where the Lord would want you to serve. We hope you will find our time of getting to know each other and our communication, based in integrity, relevant to what you are looking for and needing. We would like to encourage you to ask questions and please do NOT assume anything. Through phone calls and emails we will begin to get to know each other during this process. Our style in the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District focuses on the relational and cultivates a healthy interdependence between pastors and churches. After we receive a resume, these steps are followed by the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma Church Multiplication Team: Stage 1 A. Resume and prayer B. Criminal background check C. Divorce: If you or your wife have not been divorced then you may skip this step. If either you or your wife have been divorced in the past, then the following steps need to be taken: a. Explanation of exception: On a sheet of paper how the divorce(s) meets the EFCA's following exception criteria: i. If the person was an unbeliever at the time of the divorce. ii. If an unbeliever leaves a believer because he or she has become a believer. iii. If infidelity was involved and if counseling was refused or did not produce a change of behavior. iv. If fraud or dishonesty were involved in the initial marriage b. Participate in counciling for your divorce policy exception c. Submits notes and recording to the national office of the EFCA d. Await the approval or denial from the national office D. Self assessment: The potential planter then needs to complete the assessment listed below (see http://www.efca.org/church-planting/reachnational-church-planting/assessment for self assessments on other links). Once complete, he will need to turn in the results (in electronic format-via email) to the Director of Church Planting. a. DiSC http://www.corexcel.com/html/disc-profile.htm b. Myers-Briggs Interpretive For Organizations Report http://www.yourlifespath.com/default.asp?view=Assessments#products 20% off for EFCA c. EFCA's Planter Profile. Right now download, but working on being on-line. d. Spiritual Gifts: 16 Gifts http://www.uniquelyyou.net/giftedness/profiles.php e. Pre-Assessment Questionnaire E. Spousal support: We also have his wife (if married) write a one-page essay talking about her agreement with him being a church planter. She will then submit her essay to the Director of Church planting via email. If the essay indicates to us that she believes God has wired her husband as a planter and they want to move forward, then we will proceed. F. References: The planter will be asked to supply names and addresses of five references G. Behavioral interview: Then we meet with the potential planter and his wife for a four-hour assessment interview at our expense H. Church recommendation: Need to receive a letter of blessing and recommendation from the Senior Pastor or Elders of his present church. I. Church planting covenant: Must agree to abide by the church planting agreement J. Coaching covenant: Must agree to on going coaching principles K. What it Means to be an EFC: Must agree to principles and expectations outlined in this document L. District Superintendent approval of call: If we are all in agreement, then the planter signs the church planting covenant and we recommend him to the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District Superintendent for his approval. Stage 2 A. Raise 100 prayer supporters B. Boot camp C. Reading, application and license paper for ordination completed D. Church planting proposal completed E. The planter is given affirmation toward church planting by one District church. (If possible) F. District Church Development Team approval of church plant Fri, 8 Jan 2010 22:04:26 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=49 Commitment Covanant Texas-Oklahoma District Church Plant Covenant Recognizing that there exists an interdependency among churches affiliated with the EFCA, and that those who attend EFCA churches must exhibit a spirit of humility, mutual support and accountability among the association of other EFCA churches. I wish to openly state our commitment to work within the following guidelines: 1. I am unreservedly in agreement with the EFCA Statement of Faith. 2. I am in agreement with implementing a congregational form of government with in the two-year time frame after "Prevue Services" begin. 3. I fully agree to the process of developing leaders for the new church. Beginning with the Provision Leadership Team, accepted by the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district and eventually appointing elders for the new church recognizing the process may take 2 years or more. 4. I fully agree to be credentialed (license or ordination) before beginning the official launch phase of my church plant.   Each additional staff pastor will be encouraged to be credentialed. 5. I will demonstrate a spirit of harmony in working with my brothers and sisters in Christ (even across denominational lines), with the EFCA Texas- Oklahoma District representatives, and with the Regional Steering Committee assigned to us. 6. I agree to use the Articles of Incorporation approved by the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District as proposed by the Church Planting Coordinator. Any by-laws written prior to the new church functioning congregationally must receive final approval by the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District Superintendent. 7. I fully agree to lead the new church to begin tithing from the time of the grand opening service. The church will tithe back to the District Church Planting Revolving Fund the amount of funds received. After that, the church will participate in the EFCA Fair Share program by giving 1% to EFCA National Office and 2% to the District General Fund and endeavor to partner with other new District church planting projects, with the understanding that the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District reserves the right to adjust the program as may be needed. 8. I will attend the Church Planter's Network Meetings, Coaching Sessions, the Regional EFCA Pastor's Gatherings, and the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma Annual Conference. 9. I have read and fully agree with all principles and expectations outlined in "What it Means to be an EFC." signed: ______________________________ date: ____________ phone:_________________ email address:___________________________   Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:46:38 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=97 Tim Rowley: Student Ministry Point Person trowley@gbclaredo.org Pastor Tim was born in Dallas and moved to Laredo as a young child. He attended Laredo schools as a youth and graduated from Alexander High School. After high school, he attended John Brown University and completed degrees in Business Administration and Youth Ministry. Following college, he worked as a stock broker in Denver for a couple years before eventually moving home to work for UISD as a teacher and a coach. He is now serving as the Student & Career Pastor at Grace Bible Church in Laredo, Texas, and oversees the middles school, high school, college, and career ministries. Tim serves as our district point person on the EFCA Student Ministries Council. He has been a part of Grace Bible from the church's beginning and is excited to see how God continues to work in the city of Laredo and Grace Bible Church. "It has been an amazing journey with God, from when I first accepted Him as my Savior as a child until now, as an adult, learning to love Him more each day. There is nothing more amazing than to watch God work, changing lives, softening hardened hearts, healing deep hurts, and restoring people to an amazing personal relationship with Him. God is moving in this city, and I'm eager to see what He is going to do next!" Thu, 3 Dec 2009 08:40:21 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24&article_id=95 David M. Gustafson serves as Associate Professor of Ministry at Houston Graduate School of Theology and Adjunct Professor of Christianity at the University of Houston. He is an ordained minister of the EFCA, and has served as associate and senior pastor in Free Churches in Missouri and Illinois. He is a graduate of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (M.Div., Th.M.), Fuller Theological Seminary (D.Min.) and Linköpings universitet in Sweden (Ph.D.). His published dissertation from Sweden is titled: D. L. Moody and Swedes: Shaping Evangelical Identity among Swedish Mission Friends, 1867-1899. This is the first scholarly treatment of EFCA history that demonstrates the role of D. L. Moody in shaping pioneers of the EFCA. David M. Gustafson Ph.D., D.Min. Associate Professor of Ministry Houston Graduate School of Theology 2501 Central Parkway Ste. A-19 Houston, Texas 77092 USA 713.942.9505 309.738.1587 (cell) dgustafson@hgst.edu www.hgst.edu Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:52:28 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=18 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=18&article_id=9 Download a brochure now For more information on EFCA Texas-Oklahoma men's ministries please contact Clovis Barnett Hope Fellowship Church 200 Lake Road Lake Jackson, TX 77566 979-297-8356 Tue, 6 Oct 2009 18:00:06 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=62 September 2009 download our latest E-News Wed, 16 Sep 2009 07:59:17 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=96 Sue Vanley: Children's Ministry Point Person. sue@nebible.net "Miss Sue" is the daughter of Pastor & Mrs. Larry Wiles of Belgrade Maine. She is the oldest of five children. All of her siblings reside in the sate of Maine and are actively involved in their churches. Sue's ministry with children began very early when she took on the two year old Sunday School class at the age of 12. She furthered her training and work with children at the age of 14 when she attended a two week intensive training program with Child Evangelism Fellowship. Numerous puppetry seminars, camp staffing, children's music symposiums, and children's evangelism conferences have all added to her training and experience. Sue is married to Brian, her high school sweetheart. They have three children Rachel, Brianna, and Luke and a granddaughter Addyson Grace If you have questions please contact Sue at sue@nebible.net Mon, 14 Sep 2009 05:10:02 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=94 JoAnn RowleyAdministrative Assistant to the District Superintendent JoAnn grew up in New Jersey and accepted Christ as a child when a Sunday School teacher invited her to trust Christ as her personal savior. She attended college in Roanoke, Virginia for Radiologic Technology, then returned home and met her husband Bob at her home church in New Jersey. Soon after getting married, Bob and JoAnn moved to Dallas in order for Bob to attend Dallas Theological Seminary. After seminary they moved to Laredo, Texas in 1983 in order to plant Grace Bible Church where they spent the next 22 years. While in Laredo, JoAnn finished a degree to become a teacher, and has just recently retired after teaching for fifteen years. JoAnn and her husband have lived in San Antonio since 2005 and she now works as an administrative assistant for Bob in order to be more involved with the ministry. They have three children: Tim, a youth pastor in Laredo; Christine, a teacher in Laredo; and Mary, a music teacher in Canyon, Texas.JoAnn's favorite verse is, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 05:10:02 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=89 Carrie Corliss Administrative Assistant to the Director of Church Planting Carrie worked with Randy in an administrative role in the Midwest District EFCA in 2008 and joins him in the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District.  Carrie has a work background and bachelor's degree from Colorado Christian University in Human Resources.  She currently resides in Wichita, Kansas with her husband, Alan, and homeschools their three children, Willow (9), Ian (2) and Mason (7 months).  In the past year, Carrie served a church plant in the Midwest District as Children's Ministry Director.   Carrie can be contacted at carrie.efcatxok@gmail.com or at 316-204-9997.   Mon, 14 Sep 2009 05:10:02 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=90 Randy Littlefield Director of Church Planting Randy received his Master of Divinity from Houston Graduate School of Theology in 1991 and a Bachelor of Business Degree from Friends University, Wichita, KS in 1975. Randy spent 10 years in the corporate setting in marketing and advertising. In 1987 he became the Area Superintendent for the Evangelical Friends Church in Houston, TX, and promoted church planting within the Gulf Coast Friends churches. Randy has church planting experience on the East Coast and in Kansas as well. He received training at the Institute of Computer Systems, and has additional training in Single Adult Ministry, and Missions Perspectives. Randy spent the last five years as Church Planting Director for the EFCA Midwest District where he oversaw the planting of some thirty churches. Randy and his wife, Charlene, currently live in Yukon, Oklahoma. Randy can be reached at: Plantingintxok@gmail.com or at 913-683-3831. Sat, 1 Aug 2009 17:54:27 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=1 Our mission is to glorify God by working together to multiply healthy churches among all people across Texas and Oklahoma. Our vision is to see 150 churches planted during the next ten years. We firmly believe that we are better together and can accomplish much more for Christ by working together as we serve Him. We want to see unhealthy churches become healthy; healthy churches become even healthier; and all churches multiply! Please join us in prayer by subscribing to our prayer update. Please submit prayer requests for your church so we can pray for you specifically. If you want to see how the mailing list works, follow this link. Tue, 21 Jul 2009 07:28:09 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=58 EFCA Texas-Oklahoma Student Ministries If you have questions regarding Student Ministries, please contact Tim Rowley at trowley@gbclaredo.org Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:14:33 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14&article_id=4 National EFCA Homepage Next Step Books http://www.nsresources.com/ Twin Oaks Ranch http://www.twinoranch.com/ Building Plans Check out this Web site! http://www.churchplansforless.com/ MINIMUM WAGE Download a copy of the Department of Labor's Employee Rights poster Walk Thru the Bible With Tom Schoeneck On average, 2-3% of the attendees come to saving faith in Jesus. 30% of attendees committ to doing the "30 Days" of review and reading that are a part of the program. All who attend say they have never understood the Old Testament with such clarity and understanding. I had finished all of my Old Testament courses at DTS but still didn't understand the over all structure of the Old Testament until I went thru a "Walk Thru" presentation. I am excited about helping others gain the understanding of the Old TEstament that the "Walk Thru" brings! Go With God, for He Goes With You (Ps. 139:1-18) For information on how you can host a seminar contact Tom Schoeneck at t.schoeneck@juno.com Download the Goals for this seminar. Fri, 17 Jul 2009 05:35:40 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34&article_id=45 The EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District is interested in helping your church host a variety of clinics. Below is a list of clinics that are available for your church. Please download the brochures that your church may be interested in hosting. Download a brochure on Conflict Management. Download a Coaching brochure Download a Reproducing Clinic Brochure Fri, 17 Jul 2009 05:24:47 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=16 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=16&article_id=63 Find out what is happening in the Women's Minstries across the district. Download the June newsletter. Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:34:08 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=53 Don HalusanDistrict Camping ConsultantDon Halusan can help your church fulfill your mission of reaching people for Christ and helping people grow in Christ by taking advantage of camping opportunities at Twin Oaks Ranch. Don is available to talk with your church concerning children's camps, retreats for youth, men, women, or families, outreach events or other ways the camp can help your church be missional.For more information please go to www.twinoranch.com Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:55:59 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=37 Kathee Hixon: District Women's Ministry Networker kvhixon@mindspring.com Kathee has been involved in Women's Ministry and Wayside Chapel EFCA since 1965. During the past 40 years she has served on the local, state and National Boards in one capacity or another. During the 80's she served as the Recording Secretary of the National Women's Missionary Society Board along with others from the South Central District WMS. That was a growing experience and deepened her passion for women. She majored in Missions at Moody Bible Institute and really thought that the Lord was directing her to Foreign Missions. However, it was after attending a weekend seminar at Laity Lodge, in Texas she realized that her service was here on the home front, working with women. In 1997 she retired from the educational field, and she decided she wanted to become involved in some sort of ministry at the Church. After attending a training workshop for leaders for Precept Bible Study, she became an Evening Bible Study leader. At the 2004 Leadership Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, Kathee was amazed that the EFCA-Tx District did not have a Women's Ministry Networker. Through the encouragement of the WM Director at Wayside Chapel, she attended the Leadership Training Seminar in Redlands, California, under the leadership of Elizabeth Inrig, and was appointed the Networker for the EFCA-Tx/Ok District. Her duty is to encourage, equip and enlighten the women of this district and to act as a connection between the district and the National Director. This is an infant ministry and she would ask for your prayers as we prepare to get this off the ground. If she can be of any help in getting your Women's Ministry going, or be of assistance in any way, please let her know. Kathee wants to help your group in any way that is possible, so feel free to contact her at any time. Kathee’s email address is: kvhixon@mindspring.com. Or, I can be reached by mail at 2710 Northland, San Antonio, TX 78217 210-824-34891 (h) 210-722-2609 (c) Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:55:59 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=23 District Credentialing Consultant Tom Thomas t-thomas@satx.rr.com Tom is the Chairman of the District Board, Mission Consultant for Texas-Oklahoma District (he is available to meet with mission committees, missions chairman or senior pastor on an appointment basis.)He will also assist anyone with questions dealing with credentialing.Tom can be contacted at 210-566-8881 or at t-thomas@satx.rr.com to set up a consultant appointment. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:55:59 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=22 Clovis Barnett: associate@hopefellowship.comClovis is the Equipping Pastor at Hope Fellowship Church in Lake Jackson, TX. His responsibilities include oversight of the Evangelism, Discipleship/Small Groups, Network, Men's and Children’s ministries. Clovis attended Dallas Theological Seminary where he received a Master of Theology degree in 1990 followed with a Master of Religious Education degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1992. In January 2003 he came to Hope Fellowship as its’ Equipping Pastor. Clovis has been involved in Men's Ministry for over 15 years having been a part of Christian Businessman's Committee, "Young Business Leaders" a ministry targeting men in Jackson, MS, Promise Keepers as well as overseeing Men's Ministry in three different churches. Clovis is our men’s ministry district point person and can help you formulate a strategy for developing the Men's Ministry of your church and practical ideas in implementing it through the Men with a Purpose "Men's Ministry Training" seminar. He is also available for personal consultation and coaching by telephone and e-mail. He can be contacted at Hope Fellowship Church, 200 Lake Road, Lake Jackson, TX 77566, 979-297-8356, or associate@hopefellowship.com. Thu, 2 Jul 2009 14:55:59 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=25 If you have questions regarding Church Health, please contact Bob Rowley at efcatexas@aol.com Wed, 1 Jul 2009 07:25:50 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=93 Our mission is to glorify God by working together to multiply healthy churches among all people in Texas and Oklahoma. Our vision is to see 150 churches planted during the next ten years. We firmly believe that we are better together and can accomplish much more for Christ by working together as we serve Him. We want to see unhealthy churches become healthy; healthy churches become even healthier; and all churches multiply! Please join us in prayer by subscribing to our prayer update. Please submit prayer requests for your church so we can pray for you specifically. If you want to see how the mailing list works, follow this link. Mon, 22 Jun 2009 07:23:53 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49&article_id=66 Would you like to learn more about the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District? Download the EFCA TX-OK Handbook. This document can be printed, but it can not be printed in booklet form. Fri, 19 Jun 2009 16:36:58 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26&article_id=18 We are passionate about planting healthy churches among all people!  For more information on church planting with the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District, email Randy Littlefield Church Planting Director 1724 N. Westfield Wichita, KS 67212 913-683-3831 randylittlefield@msn.com Do you think you may want to plant a church?  Download a brochure on the profile of a church planter. Perhaps you would like to download a brochure on the strategies of church planting.   Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:01:58 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24&article_id=13 Greg James is willing to help your church. Greg was born and raised in Wheaton, IL. I graduated from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago with a B.A. in Bible/Theology (1988), then from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School with an M.Div (1991). He served as Senior Pastor of Rock Valley Chapel (EFC) in Beloit, WI from 1992-2008. It was a one year old church plant of 60 people that grew to about 250. Greg married his high school sweetheart, Donna, in 1986. They have 3 adopted children: Maegan and Taylor (twin girls, age 12), and Isaiah (age 11). In August of 2008 they moved their family to Austin, TX as God led them there to be used for His glory in reaching the Austin metro area. He is currently working as a Consultant for Champion Events Group (a Christian company that does large scale fundraising events for non-profit organizations - mainly working with Christian schools). Greg is 42 years old and he enjoys family times and playing golf. His spiritual gifts are preaching/teaching, administration, and leadership. He would be happy to serve the Evangelical Free Churches in the Texas-Oklahoma area with pulpit supply as needed. George Billingslea will gladly help you or your church. George Billingslea can be reached at (210) 654-6607 or 16510 Willow Run San Antonio, Texas 78247. Age: 68; Pharmacist in Conroe Texas for 20 years and served as an elder in Conroe Bible Church for 3 years.; ThM from Dallas Seminary; Served as Pastor at Northeast Bible Church EFC in San Antonio, Texas from 1982 - 2004 Retired from Senior Pastor's position at Northeast in July 2004. Robert Billingslea would be willing to come to your church and preach. Robert received his Masters of Theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. He has served in the ministry for over ten years. He was the Family Life Pastor at Fellowship Bible Church in Waco, TX., for two years and the pastored Oak Hill Bible Church in Austin, TX., for over 8 years. Robert and his wife, Tulisa, recently celebrated their 22 anniversary. Their daughter Lauren is a freshman at Texas A&M. Their son George is in 6th grade. Fri, 23 Jan 2009 20:35:51 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60&article_id=88 Please visit our National EFCA website for information on credentialing. All the forms are on this website. http://www.efca.org/about-efca/joining-efca/credentialing Click on "License Leading to Certificate of Christian Ministry," "License Leading to Certificate of Ordination," "Certificate of Christian Ministry" or "Certificate of Ordination" to view the links to the materials. Mon, 17 Nov 2008 21:24:02 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=38 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=38&article_id=50 Purpose of this policy statement: "To clearly define the guidelines, steps and the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district involvement into a church plant becoming a full participating member of the EFCA.” Classification and the Process... 1. Church Plant Project: Church Planter or a Lay Team begins the new church. The Church planter or Lay Team begins with a signed covenantal commitment to the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district and the process followed in the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district for establishing a new church. The commitments are listed in the covenant.The Church Planter or Lay Team agrees to use the Articles of Incorporation as specified by the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district.The EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district or the mother church will handle the finances until a treasurer is chosen, the 501 3c is obtained and the new church is incorporated with the state. The process is limited to 6 months for the final transition for the time the church planter begins or the lay team begins services. The planter or church chairman will file state incorporation papers. EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district and mother church will stop handling the finances at that point.The Church Planter or Lay Team (if the planter is not on sight) will appoint a Provisional Leadership Team of people for the purpose of assisting the lead planter to carry out the responsibilities of developing a new church. The Church Planter (or Lay Team Chairman until there is a pastor) can remove people at their discretion if they do not support the vision, values and the "person” of the planter. The people do not necessarily need to be elder qualified but should be believers of good standing among others in the community. 2. Church Plant: Church Planter with a Provisional Leadership Team18 months into the process, the church planter appoints elders; If the new church is a lay driven start then the people can choose to choose it's elders before a pastor comes; If a planter comes early in the process then the lay team is encouraged to allow the pastor to take the leadership in this process.Church Planter prayerfully chooses new elders (5 page paper; interviews; examples as to why the man should be considered an elder (Acts 6));Church Planter presents new elders EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district representative or a Steering Committee Team if one exists;EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district Representative lays hands on the men as elders during a church service;New elders conduct membership classes (Welcome to the Family);The superintendent is called and asked to come and meet with the elders to discuss "affirmation voting”. This is critical to the leadership understanding how to function in meetings! Roberts Rule of Order is NOT encouraged. Biblical congregationalism is not democracy but God's people seeking God(Acts 1:14; Phil 2:2).New Elders present new members to EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district representative. 3. Church Status in the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district: Once members have been through classes, signed a membership covenant, they are then presented to a EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district Staff member for approval. Once members are finalized, they should be recognized at the first congregational meeting; a season of prayer, a time of celebration and a few agenda items are encouraged; all the names and the addresses of first members shall be turned into the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district offices. The names are put into the churches file in case the process is called into question.The superintendent shall present the new church to the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district Board and the Annual Conference. 4. Financial Support and Participation in the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district The pastor and leaders shall participate in EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district conferences, HCN's as spelled out in the covenant and work along other EFCA's church to accomplish kingdom work.Once the pastor is paid fully by the church plant or the church the tithing process will begin.The covenantal agreement is tithing 10% of the general offering after the pastor is fully being paid. The areas where the funds go to are (1%) the National Office, (2%) EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district general fund; (2%) EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district Church Planting Fund; and that leaves another 5% to come alongside other multiplication ministries. Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:26:23 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26&article_id=40 Strategy for Church Planting 1 God's Call: Launching with vision and prayer [37] Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. [38] Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37-38 (NIV) 2 God's Team: Recruiting the team God sets apart [13:1] In the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. [2] While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." [3] So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. Acts 13:1-3 (NIV) 3 God's Planter: Assessing for the lead church planter [6] I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. [7] So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. [8] The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. [9] For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. 1 Cor. 3:6-9 (NIV) 4 God's Coach: Encouraging, equipping and empowering the work with Coaching Now Joseph, a Levite of Cyprian birth, who was also called Barnabas by the apostles (which translated means Son of Encouragement), Acts 4:36 (NASB-U) And there occurred such a sharp disagreement that they separated from one another, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. Acts 15:39 (NASB-U) 5 God's Wisdom: Training the workers [5] A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases strength; [6] for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers. Proverbs 24:5-6 (NIV) [22] Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22 (NIV) 6 God's Resources: Supporting the work for fruitfulness [24] "Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you--and even more. [25] Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him." Mark 4:24-25 (NIV) 7 God's Heart: Multiplying the work through reproduction [28] And God blessed them; and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply. . . " Genesis 1:28a (NASB) Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:56:25 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26&article_id=19 Recent EFCA Texas-Oklahoma Church Plants: City on a Hill Bible Church, Humble, TX Faith Bible Church, McKinney, TX Grace Bible Church, Houston, TX Hana Church, San Antonio, TX The Journey, Austin, TX Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:52:50 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=16 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=16&article_id=11 If you would like more information about all the opportunties for Women's Ministry please contact Kathee Hixon at kvhixon@mindspring.com Sun, 19 Oct 2008 22:37:06 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25&article_id=14 EFCA Texas-Oklahoma District offers a special service to those who wish to simplify and better organize their giving to the District through Direct Bank Giving. Just fill out the attached form, send it to the address given with a canceled check and you can begin giving without the hassle of writing a monthly check. Download a form now. If you would like to make a donation online right now, go to the "Give" tab above and make your donation to the general fund or the church planting fund. Or make your check payable to: "EFCA Tx-Ok" and send it to our district office: EFCA Texas-Oklahoma 7911 Black Buck San Antonio, TX 78266 For question, comments or concerns please contact Kevin Hammond (210)344-1203 x 124 or kevinh@waysidechapel.org Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:25:02 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=12 District Superintendent Dr. Bob Rowley EFCATEXAS@aol.com Dr. Bob Rowley graduated with a Th.M. degree from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1982. He and his wife, JoAnn, then moved to Laredo, Texas where God used them to plant Grace Bible EFC. Over the years, Bob and JoAnn have served as Urban Intercultural missionaries with the EFCA, and Bob served several years on the district board, and five years as the district Director of Church Planting before becoming the District Superintendent. Bob has been involved in about thirty church plants over the years. On June 14, 2004, Bob was unanimously elected District Superintendent for the EFCA – Texas District. He resigned from the staff of Grace Bible Church on December 31, 2004 and began giving full-time to the EFCA – Texas District. In February of 2005 the district became the EFCA Texas-Oklahoma district. Bob and JoAnn live in San Antonio, Texas. Bob serves on the EFCA National Church Planting Team and is the EFCA national trainer for coaching. Bob completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at Dallas Theological Seminary in May of 2005. His research and dissertation wrestled with the question of what is required to successfully coach church planters. He was the recipient of the John G. Mitchell award given to a student in the Doctor of Ministry program who demonstrates outstanding scholarship and effectiveness in ministry. In the past he has also received the EFCA Church Planting District of the Year award and the UIM Bridging Award for bridging cultures. Mon, 16 Apr 2007 14:04:09 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=30 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=30&article_id=24 Tom Thomas - current Texas-Oklahoma District Board Chairman Tom is available to meet as a Missions District Consultant at no charge with mission committes, mission chairman, and senior pastors to advise on all aspects of your missions program or to help in starting one. Tom will travel to your church.Contact Tom at 210-566-8881 or at t-thomas@satx.rr.com to set up a consultant appointment. Thu, 5 Apr 2007 13:29:08 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52&article_id=72 Please download a copy of the EFCA Tx-Ok District CPRF bulletin in Microsoft WORD insert #1 Please download a copy of the EFCA Tx-Ok District CPRF bulletin in Microsoft WORD insert #2 Please download a copy of the EFCA Tx-Ok District CPRF bulletin in Microsoft WORD insert #3 Download a copy of the EFCA TX-Ok District CPRF Bulletin insert in PDF #1 Download a copy of the EFCA TX-Ok District CPRF Bulletin insert in PDF #2 Download a copy of the EFCA TX-Ok District CPRF Bulletin insert in PDF #3 Download a copy of our Church Planting Revolving Fund Project - video Promo 1 Church Planting Revolving Fund Project - Promo 2 Church Planting Revolving Fund Project - Promo 3 Church Planting Revolving Fund Project - Promo 4 Mon, 6 Nov 2006 14:42:36 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51&article_id=71 Check out this Web site! http://www.churchplansforless.com Wed, 20 Sep 2006 13:35:16 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=21 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=21&article_id=29 Thu, 7 Sep 2006 14:03:14 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=40 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=40&article_id=51 Don Halusan, District Camping ConsultantDon Halusan can help your church fulfill your mission of reaching people for Christ and helping people grow in Christ by taking advantage of camping opportunities at Twin Oaks Ranch. Don is available to talk with your church concerning children's camps, retreats for youth, men, women, or families, outreach events or other ways the camp can help your church be missional.For more information on Twin Oaks Ranch please go to www.twinoranch.com Tue, 28 Feb 2006 12:50:32 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=57 If you would like to read more about the Church Planting process and also get information about the EFCA Boot Camp for Church Planters please download a BC Map manual. Wed, 18 Jan 2006 10:21:29 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=5 We invite you to check out the many ministries the EFCA has. Fri, 7 Oct 2005 09:58:33 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23&article_id=16 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18 We would like to invite you to join us in prayer on a daily basis for our district, our churches, ministries, pastors, missionaries, leaders and church members. Our goal is to have many people lifting up our prayer requests and seeking God on our behalf on a regular basis. To assist you in praying for us, we have set up an email list so we can send you a brief prayer request each day. You can subscribe or unsubscribe to this list on your own. (Please send a blank message to the address in the appropriate link.) To submit a request for your church to be shared with our list, please email us. (We would like these requests to be short and specific, and please use discretion in determining what to share. Our list is moderated, and if you have concerns, you may email the list moderator.) To find out more about our subscription service, please check out the webpage that hosts our list. Thanks for praying with us! Fri, 16 Sep 2005 18:21:12 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=32 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=32&article_id=35 Go to: http://efca.know-where.com/efca/ Wed, 14 Sep 2005 09:31:09 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=30 Check out the great facilities at Twin Oaks Ranch in Buda, TX www.twinoranch.com Mon, 5 Sep 2005 09:50:59 MST http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3 http://www.efcatxok.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3&article_id=17 The doctrinal position of The Evangelical Free Church of America is summarized in our twelve-article Statement of Faith.We Believe: The Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, to be the inspired Word of God, without error in the original writings, the complete revelation of His will for the salvation of men and the Divine and final authority for Christian faith and life. In one God, Creator of all things, infinitely perfect and eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. That Jesus Christ is true God and true man, having been conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He died on the cross, a sacrifice for our sins according to the Scriptures. Further, He arose bodily from the dead, ascended into heaven, where, at the right hand of the Majesty on High, He is now our High Priest and Advocate. That the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ and, during this age, to convict men, regenerate the believing sinner, and indwell, guide, instruct and empower the believer for godly living and service. That man was created in the image of God but fell into sin and is, therefore, lost, and only through regeneration by the Holy Spirit can salvation and spiritual life be obtained. That the shed blood of Jesus Christ and His Resurrection provide the only ground for justification and salvation for all who believe, and only such as receive Jesus Christ are born of the Holy Spirit and, thus become children of God. That water baptism and the Lord's Supper are ordinances to be observed by the Church during the present age. They are, however, not to be regarded as means of salvation. That the true Church is composed of all such persons who through saving faith in Jesus Christ have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit and are united together in the Body of Christ of which He is the Head. That only those who are, thus, members of the true Church shall be eligible for membership in the local church. That Jesus Christ is the Lord and Head of the Church and that every local church has the right, under Christ, to decide and govern its own affairs. In the personal and premillennial and imminent coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and that this "Blessed Hope" has a vital bearing on the personal life and service of the believer. In the bodily resurrection of the dead; of the believer to everlasting blessedness and joy with the Lord; of the unbeliever to judgment and everlasting conscious punishment. Tue, 30 Aug 2005 16:09:55 MST