Frequently Asked Questions
Q. It looks like a good idea on paper. In theory it can be done. There are unpredictable factors, however. Perhaps not all church plants will succeed, and there be no return on investment, or it takes twice as long for a church to reach the stage of reimbursement. Any prospective investor would, therefore, need to take account of the possibility that they may not get their money back. The 5% interest would have to be subject to ‘market’ conditions. John Bristow, Eldad Elim Pentecostal Church, Union Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey
A. The idea is that the return on investment by the bond owners is guaranteed by the large donations by individual(s) of high net worth, so that shouldn't be a problem.
Q. In theory I am totally sold on it. One question I have, how does this relate to AOG? Julie Pollard, Cornerstone Christian Fellowship
A. Currently, it is purely an idea, but I see the CPA as a completely independent organisation and the churches formed would make their own decisions about affiliation.
Q. I would need to know how this would be set up. Eg will it be a trust/charity? How many trustees? Who is accountable for keeping records and 'policing' the system? Will there be proper accounts kept & audited. Gordon Draycott
A. Currently, the CPA is just an idea. If there is sufficient interest, I would envisage assembling a team of interested individuals with expertise, who would ask, and answer, the very questions you have raised.
Q. Notwithstanding the changeless need to 'preach the gospel', I am intrigued by the groundswell of evidence that reveals Christ is building his church in unlikely and unconventional ways. What some have described as 'disintegrating', other have labelled 'emerging' church. Paul Vallance
A. Our aim would be to fund evangelism and plant churches, whatever the shape and style, so we would be looking to assist every form of church plant that has a viable chance of contributing back to the fund.
Q. In the area where we live there are many small churches struggling to survive. I preach in some and it is sad to see the declining numbers, yet encouraging that there are faithful brothers and sisters in these places of worship working hard to keep the doors open. I wonder if the CPA should include developing churches that are already established in communities as well as planting new churches?
A. Our aim would be to fund evangelism and plant churches, whatever the shape and style, so we would be looking to assist every form of church plant (or replant) that has a viable chance of contributing back to the fund.
Q. This is difficult to discern out of the blue. Can you tell me a bit about yourself and your spiritual background?
A. I am a minister with Assemblies of God and have run New Life Publishing Co for over 25 years, producing evangelistic and denominational products. If you’d like to know more, click Meet the Founder.
.
