Rise Up and Build is one of WCF’s latest initiatives, born out of a need to reinvigorate ecclesias following the disruption caused by COVID-19. Beginning in 2022, we have been focused on helping equip ecclesias to implement both in-reach and outreach projects. Our guiding verse is Psalm 119:25, which says, “Revive me according to your word.”

One of the main activities of Rise Up and Build has been to provide templates for projects that ecclesias may want to implement - all having either an inreach or an outreach component, or both - as well as funding for those projects. These projects have been piloted first in volunteer ecclesias, in order to work out any needed details prior to the wider roll-out. We have piloted and rolled out two such projects - the Bible Book Box and the Prayer Walk. To date, we have had at least seven ecclesias in three countries take up the offer of a Bible Book Box, which is similar to a Free Little Library. Ecclesias have installed these on their ecclesial grounds or, in one case, on the property of a member. The Bible Book Boxes are stocked with biblical literature that is designed to be easy to read, with most of the boxes focusing on children’s Bible books. The Prayer Walk has been implemented by two ecclesias, and one is planning to do another walk in the Spring. Members of these ecclesias walked around the area in which they meet, praying for neighbors and leaving contact information. In late 2023, we put out a call for more ecclesias interested in piloting some of these programs before they are rolled out to the wider ecclesial body. This has been well-received, although we can still use more piloting ecclesias.

Another activity of Rise Up and Build has been regular Fresh Ideas bulletins. These communications are designed to highlight innovative ideas for preaching, inreach, outreach, or other ecclesial activities, so as to “provoke [others] to love and good works” (Heb. 10:24). Some of what has been highlighted so far includes ideas for successfully incorporating those attending services remotely into the service, and Bible classes held in unique settings/circumstances.

Three podcasts are available related to the work of Rise Up and Build: Brother Alan Ghent discussing his role as a director, as well as involvement in Rise Up and Build; Sister Jessica Miller, on her involvement; and Sister Bette Winfree, discussing Bible classes she has held at her work place, which have led to several baptisms.

In 2024, Rise Up and Build hopes to continue piloting and rolling out new initiatives for ecclesias to implement, as well as to keep highlighting fresh ideas being tried in our community. Our goal is always to bring glory to God through the sharing of what believers are doing to invigorate their ecclesias and spread His word to those around us. If your ecclesia would like to serve as a piloting ecclesia, or if you have an idea for an initiative, please reach out!