This is a condensed interview with Andy Wirt, about planting Clearview GBC northeast of Columbus in the New Albany area.

Have any of the people from the Rocky Ridge ex-GBC contacted you?

We have had no contacts with any of them.  Our strategy is to start from scratch, reaching unchurched people.  We need to explore and find “5 families to come alive, and 25 to thrive.”  We are seeking pioneer type believers.

What special needs do these people have?

New Albany has median priced homes at $500,000.  Gahanna ranges from middle to upper, upper class homes.

Wealthy peoples’ major need is to recognize their need for a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.  They need help with their marriages, their finances and their parenting skills.  Many are transients, looking for community and connections.

How has the NW Chapel been helping?

They are an active Mother Church, which is the key to church planting.  They are the principal financial backer the first year.  We also get weekly coaching from Martin Guerena and motherly supervision from Tony Webb.  Pastor Terry Hofecker also encourages us.

Are you doing any fund raising?

Our former church has been a great help.  NCO District and local tithing also help.  The expense challenge will occur this fall.

Have you been to Boot Camp?

Yes.  I went with Pastor Terry in June.  I received a lot of help from GBNAM and a class at Grace Seminary.

Have you formed a Launch Team yet?

That is the great challenge right now!  We are working toward 25 families by September of 2008.  It is slow work, and we need God’s help in forming the team.  Five families meet together weekly now.

What has encouraged you so far?

Two adults and six children have come to Christ.  We have had good attendances at our Bible Club, our block party, and we are planning a special event for Halloween.  Our small group is reaching out, and fund raising is beginning.

What do you believe God wants to accomplish through you?

We want to train and use new people to reach out to others.  We want to “be Jesus” and mobilize missionaries.  We want to be mobilized around missions.

God is teaching us to be missionaries, and that involves perseverance and boldness.  He wants us to build an outreaching church to reach the Columbus area.

How can we best pray for you?

Pray for us as a young family with those needs and pressures.

Pray that people will see Christ in us.

Pray that we will see people come to Christ.

Pray that we will find the people who will help us.

Do you have a parting shot?

We thank you for your prayers; they have energized us.  We need leaders to partner with us.  We want to plant other churches and help others to plant churches.

Prayer Team:           Andy@clearviewgrace.com

Prayer Blog:www.wirt-prayer-team.blogspot.com

Church Website:www.clearviewgrace.com