Redemption Hill | DIstrict of Columbia

• Bill Riedel
• Apr 29, 2011
• Series: Church Profiles
• Categories: Church Planting Articles, Latest News

Briefly describe your story of your call to plant a church

After five years in an associate role I felt an insatiable burden to get into a major urban center to start a church. While I never imagined our current setting, the pieces fell into place in ways that can only be explained by God's providence as He called us to Capitol Hill in DC. We have been blessed by a partnerships with a local sending church, and others who are supporting us in the work.

How did you build up your core? What advice would you give to guys in the core-stage?

We prayed. A lot. We came into the city praying that God would (1) prepare peoples' hearts to receive the Gospel and (2) call people to join us in the work. Every member of our core group somehow found us. As they came I had to be able to articulate the vision and mission of the church.

So, my advice to guys building a core is: Don't get gimmicky. Solidify the vision God has called you to articulate and pray that He brings you the right people to lead and serve in His church.

What were the biggest challenges you faced in planting your church (and/or currently facing)?

Finance and Facility. This is a very expensive place to live. We have raised support as missionaries into the city. Praise God it has all been raised!

Finding a space to meet has been a big challenge, too. Right now we have a partnership with a church. We meet for worship in their building at 5pm on Sundays. The process was long, though. We had to delay launch as we searched fervently. In the midst of it all, the facility we're in is WAY better than some of the others we applied for.

How did you become involved with Acts 29? What have been the biggest benefits of being in the network?

I resonate deeply with the passion for Gospel-centered ministry that equips and motivates people to mission. Being in the network has opened the door for me to interact with other guys with similar passions and theological frameworks as we navigate the tricky waters of planting the church.

What advice do you have for men who are wrestling with the decision to plant? 

If you can do anything else with your life, do it. If God is calling you to plant a church you won't be able to escape it and He will lead the way for you.

How do you pastor your family?

Our family is in this mission together. We've moved a lot and landed across the country from where we began. The sweetest side of all of the transition has been the need and opportunity for us to cling to each other as we cling to Jesus. We read the Bible with our kids and pray with them every night. I work to care for my wife's soul by coming alongside her, giving her space and time from the kids to pursue Jesus, and praying with her and for her.

Church Profile: Redemption Hill Church
Launch Date: April 2011
Location: District of Columbia

Mission, Vision, Values of Church 

Redemption Hill Church is a community people who have been saved by Jesus and sent as missionaries into our city, Washington, DC.

What are some examples of God's grace that you have seen in your life and/or the life of your church?

We have experienced God's provision as a family in ways we never could have anticipated.

As a church, we are amazed at His grace shown to us in every aspect of the journey. Capitol Hill is a tough place to do ministry. Starting a new church in DC can only be ascribed to Jesus' work in building His church.

How can we pray for you?

As Paul asked in Colossians 4 - Pray that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.