Acts 29

Dear Future Lead Pastors,

As I write this letter, I recall my experience with a recent Acts 29 Boot Camp in the St. Louis area.  I originally attended this meeting looking for the one thing, the trick that would make ministry easy and quick.  Let me assure you there are no easy roads to building a great ministry.  At the St. Louis boot camp we covered all kinds of issues; preaching, legal issues, family matters, fitness, core groups, by-laws, and so much more.  I entered the meetings confident, somewhat cocky and self-assured that I was ready.  I left knowing I need to pray more, study more, learn more and get real about a lot of false non-biblical issues.  Boot camp provided an opportunity to ask real questions without fear of being embarrassed.

The Acts 29 assessment process allowed my wife and me to look at our relationship, and how ministry might affect our marriage.  I found out that Dell had many concerns even though she is very supportive of what God is leading us to do.  She and I now talk openly and very candidly about issues related to ministry and family.  I share this with you because your wife is your greatest asset.  Knowing her concerns and fears is important, and should not be overlooked.  After our assessment we sat down and addressed our plans to begin our church plant. We pushed back some dates and began building our core group.

We left boot camp with so many tools that nearly three months later we are still reviewing them and assessing the many online resources.  By the way, the pastors that are part of the Acts 29 Network have been great. Many of these guys, with already super-busy lives, have given us access to ask questions and get as much information as we need.  In Acts 29 I know I have a team of proven leaders to help guide me, keep me accountable, and look out for my best interests.

Since the Boot Camp, we have moved to Humble TX, brought and sold a house, had our first core group meeting and have been very active at raising funds.  I encourage you to approach your boot camp experience with an open mind and heart.  Forget all the hype and all the great books.  I’m asking you to walk in with an attitude that says “I’m a sponge ready to soak up the experience”.

Sincerely,

Bryant T. Lee