About the Empower Ministry Leadership Network

The Empower Ministry Leadership Network exists to partner our Foundation's efforts with visionary lead pastors by providing them a trusted peer network, personal support, access to information and resources, and a feedback loop to help advance the Kingdom.

Why the Empower Ministry Leadership Network? 

Because lead pastors are often isolated. Visionary pastors carry responsibility few others understand. Many lack peers they can trust with real challenges, doubts, and decisions. The EML Network intentionally brings lead pastors together into relationally safe, peer-based communities where isolation is replaced with connection.

Because collaboration strengthens execution. The EML Network exists to foster collaboration among like-minded leaders—sharing best practices, learning from one another, and solving common ministry challenges together. This peer-to-peer environment accelerates learning and sharpens leadership, helping pastors move from vision to execution with greater clarity and confidence.

Because pastors need personal care, not just tools. Healthy ministry flows from healthy leaders. The EML Network is intentionally designed to provide encouragement, personal care, and relational support through shared experiences, access to crisis counseling and other resources, and personalized retreats—recognizing that pastors must be sustained personally in order to lead effectively.

Because trusted input improves outcomes. Through the EML Network, visionary pastors and their teammates actively review, validate, and pressure-test Empower Ministry’s strategies and deliverables—ensuring that what we build truly serves the local church.

How Was the First Regional Group Determined?

The first regional EML Network was formed with great intentionality. We began by identifying high-growth, high-capacity lead pastors whose ministries demonstrate Kingdom impact, organizational health, and a commitment to discipleship and collaboration.

The process started with a data-informed landscape analysis of churches across Middle Tennessee, using multiple research tools and sources to narrow the field. From there, churches were evaluated using a consistent set of criteria, including: 

• Sustained attendance and ministry growth over time 

• Clear biblical doctrine and a strong focus on discipleship 

• Demonstrated commitment to ministry improvement and team development 

• Kingdom-minded leadership and a collaborative posture 

Once an initial pool was identified, we conducted deeper qualitative research—reviewing leadership track records, ministry culture, digital presence, and organizational structure. This included insights from trusted ministry experts, peer recommendations, and publicly available resources.

Finally, a board-led review process evaluated each potential participant individually. Leaders were prayerfully selected based not only on past results, but also on their readiness to contribute to and benefit from a peer-driven network—leaders who would sharpen one another, share openly, and help drive the mission of Empower Ministry.

The first group is setting the tone for what the EML Network is meant to be: a trusted circle of visionary pastors who are actively building teams, strengthening systems, and operationalizing their God-given vision with excellence. 

What’s Next?

Empower Ministry is committed to expanding the EML Network thoughtfully and with excellence. Our current five-year strategic plan includes:

• Seven strategic markets

• Approximately 50 lead pastors actively engaged

Each new network will be built on the same foundations of visionary leadership, operational excellence, relational depth, discipleship focus, and alignment to Empower Ministry’s vision to advance the Kingdom.