When a visiting church leader asks us to identify the key factors in the growth of Elevation, we’re never sure how to answer.
We can tell them about our assimilation systems, which are thorough and extensive, and have no doubt been a key element of our high retention rate and astounding volunteer involvement.
We can lecture them about the importance of simplicity, and warn them against over-programming which leads to defused energy and mediocrity.
We can show them the marketing materials that our production department creates (which are slicker than snot and second to none) and share our philosophy of branding.

All of these systems and concepts are relatively concrete and definable.
But the most important component of church planting is the culture you create.
And it’s often completely ignored.

The current of culture is a powerful thing.
When a group of extraordinary people are committed to an extraordinary cause, it washes away lots of preconceived notions and creates a high tide of momentum.

The current of culture is a dangerous thing.
If you hang around Elevation too long, you might get sucked in by the undertow. I just heard about 2 more families who are currently uprooting their lives to move to Charlotte. Not for a job. Just to be a part of a move of God.

That’s how strong the culture of current can be, when created correctly.

Tomorrow, I’ll share more about the culture of sacrifice that is so vital to Elevation Church.