FCC Plants Unconventional "Church"

Pioneering new ideas in evangelism and service, FCC is reaching out to brothers and sisters in Christ in the heart of Canton, by partnering with Rivertree Christian to plant a new “church” focused on downtown canton.

This “church” takes on the essence of the Christian definition of community. Rather than planting a building, this church is a network of small churches each focused on reaching specific segment and areas of Canton, with its own unique mission and identity.

Brent Barger, who has been on staff for the past 4 years as the College/Young Adult Pastor. will help lead this new church plant along with a former Rivertree staff member.

“The main vision is not to expect people to come to us but to go to them in love, seeking to share the love of Christ in action and with words,” Barger said. “Our approach will be to build relationships and to share our very lives with the people of Canton.”

Although they are in the infancy stage of their work, Barger has high expectations for this project.

“Eventually there will be a consistent worship service that will bring these small churches together to celebrate what God is doing in our lives and the city,” he said. “[But for now] we genuinely feel this is the best approach to reach an area like inner-city Canton, an area that desperately needs renewal and restoration.”

The missions team at First Christian is significantly supporting this new work, and will continue to play a major role as the church develops and grows.

“Our purpose right now is to share the vision, build unity, and to seek God's heart together for the city,” Barger said.

Currently, the church meets on Sunday nights at 6pm at Trinity Lutheran Church in downtown Canton with people who will make the core of the new church. Barger asks for prayers for the church to be united, bold, and trusting in the Spirit for leadership. For more information, check out www.lovecanton.com or email Brent Barger at brent@lovecanton.com