Ministry Discovery
Ministry Discovery
Planting a church is a unique calling, and discerning that calling requires wisdom, clarity, and encouragement.
MNA’s Ministry Discovery process is designed to help leaders thoughtfully explore their readiness for church planting. Through guided conversations, practical exercises, and interaction with experienced church planters, participants receive meaningful feedback about their strengths and areas for growth.
This multi-day experience focuses on the key character qualities, calling, and competencies needed for healthy church planting. Our goal is not to evaluate your call to ministry or assign a grade. Instead, we provide honest, pastoral guidance to help you discern your next step.
Participants typically receive one of three recommendations:
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Green Light – You appear ready to move forward with church planting.
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Yellow Light – Church planting may be a future step with additional development or clarity.
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Red Light – You may be better suited for other forms of ministry leadership.
For leaders who are still exploring the possibility of church planting, Church Planter Readiness Seminars offer a helpful first step in the ministry discovery journey.
Our hope is that this process provides the clarity, confidence, and encouragement you need as you consider planting a healthy church.
To learn more about upcoming Ministry Discovery opportunities and readiness seminars, please reach out to MNA's church planting staff here.
Schedule
Because there are several steps involved in the application process, please contact us at least 2 weeks prior to the application due date to get started!
2026 Regional Dates
May 26-28 – Charlotte, NC (RTS)
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Application Deadline: March 6, 2026
July 7-9 – St. Louis, MO (Covenant)
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Application Deadline: April 17, 2026
September 22-24 Cincinnati, OH
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Application Deadline: July 3, 2026
November 10-12 – Denver, CO
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Application Deadline: August 21, 2026
Fee Structure for Regional Events Only
Married Applicants
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Total fee$3000 per couple (covers meals and materials; lodging is the responsibility of the applicant)
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$1000 non-refundable deposit is due with application
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$2,000 balance due if invited, payable in full prior to attending
Single Applicants
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Total Fee$1500 per applicant, per person (covers meals and materials; lodging is the responsibility of the applicant)
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$500 per applicant, per person non-refundable deposit is due with application
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$1000 per applicant, per person balance due if invited, payable in full 2 weeks prior to start of the event
Where Do I Start?
To get started, read What is Church Planter Ministry Discovery? and Twenty-One Questions.
Once you have read these articles, click here to schedule a call. The call will last about 15 – 30 minutes and includes you and your wife if you are married.