The longer I walk with the Lord, the more I understand and appreciate God’s love and purpose for His body of believers, the big “C” Church. I also continue to appreciate the critical need for local congregations (little “c” churches) to practically live out the Church’s calling within their communities. As my understanding and heart for the Church and church grows, so does my understanding of FCA’s role.

Organized Christian groups have often been divided into two categories - the church, and, the para-church. As a fourth generation pastor with over 30 years of ministry experience, mostly within a local church, and as a long-time partner with FCA and FCA Endurance, I’ve got a fairly good understanding of each. It is with this in mind that I have been asked to write a short article regarding the need for the local church and each disciple’s active involvement in a local congregation.