Is Portland still a graveyard for church plants? While precise figures and anecdotes range regarding the success rates of church plants in the Northwest, it’s evident planting a church in Portland, Oregon is no walk in the park. With dwindling church attendance and Portland proudly upholding its status as one of America’s most unique and unchurched cities, the prospects for church planting might appear bleak.
A Hopeful Movement
However, an encouraging movement has emerged in the region, where pastors and congregations are uniting efforts to foster robust collaboration, growth, and hands-on support for church planters. One great example of this collaborative effort is highlighted by The Bridge Church NW’s (The Bridge) support of Expand NW’s newest church planters Pete and Kristy Ziolkowski.
The Ziolkowski Family
Pete and Kristy Ziolkowski, along with their three children, relocated to Portland in December 2023. They are now fully participating in The Bridge as they pray and seek where specifically on the east side of Portland God is calling them to serve. This includes serving on staff at the church and engaging in different community activities. Pete and Kristy intend to simply be present with the people of Portland as they learn the culture and prayerfully engage where God is already at work in the city.
A Church Planting Training Program
After Bob and Stephanie Johnson planted The Bridge in 2019 through Expand NW, they knew God was calling The Bridge to continue in Kingdom expansion, specifically in planting more churches. In fact, they had a vision of having a church planting program, a place where upcoming church planters would be cared for, encouraged, and trained in a safe environment as they learn about Portland culture and seek God. “We wanted to create a safe space for planters to hear the Holy Spirit,” said Bob Johnson.
The Bridge is now at the forefront of supporting church planters Pete and Kristy. Stephanie Johnson is grateful for how the relationship has come about. “It is remarkable and amazing to see God put all the pieces together.”
While Portland presents obstacles for church planting, a hopeful movement is emerging where future leaders and church planters like Pete and Kristy can engage as embedded missionaries while being equipped and encouraged by churches like The Bridge.
“There is much more unity than there ever has been in the Portland Metro, and that is truly amazing. We are never alone. We are fighting this battle together. We are seeking wisdom and prayer.” – Bob Johnson, Lead Planter, The Bridge Church NW
