On Naming Your Church Plant

“So, you’re planting a church,” my friend said. “Yes,” I replied. “We’re really excited.” And then he asked, “What’s it called?” And that’s one of the many early moments when reality would hit me and any other would-be church planter in the face: You need to name your baby. People will ask, and rightly so.

I speak from first-hand experience. I’m a church-planting resident at Fairview Baptist Church in Apex, NC. We’re looking to plant “Coram Deo Baptist Church” next year in the greater Raleigh area. We’re in partnership with several other churches as well as the Send Network and Pillar Network. But, even with all the help, one of the first decisions a planter must make is choosing a church name. The material below is a collection of wisdom that I have gleaned from others and a few points I’ve learned along the way.

For starters, as far as one can tell, Orthodox Christianity does not know of any biblical, historical or theological criteria for selecting a church name. The earliest churches took their names from geographical locations, with Jerusalem and Antioch being the first. There have been traditions and denominations through the years, of course, from Catholics to Pentecostals, but as far as a church’s first name, there are not many lasting precedents.

Thus, when it comes to naming a new church, one should appeal to prudence over prescription. Wisdom would say that it is best to select a name that 1) brings clarity to the gospel and the Christian community; 2) connects with the surrounding geographic location, if applicable, 3) appeals to cultural contexts; and 4) if able, communicates to some degree the general mission and vision of the newly planted church. Each of these criteria need not be fulfilled to have a suitable name. They should be, however, seen as aids to help leaders select verbiage to best serve the ministry and their Christian witness.

Perhaps a general philosophy for naming a church would include these elements. As much as possible, leaders should keep these elements in mind.

• The name should be timeless and tested. Though the local church is a temporary tool to accomplish the Great Commission, we do need to approach the ministry with a long view. Location and culture may change over time. What’s trendy now may not be in a decade.
• The name should be appealing to the ear. The church is not a business, and the gospel is not a product. However, we are dealing with people, which means marketing is a factor. How a church name sounds will communicate a feeling and make a first impression. Phonetics and psychology are in play when making a selection.
• The name should be a church name. That may sound obvious. Good. It’s easy to select a name that could be used for a neighborhood, a country club, a school, or a ministry. Rather, try to choose a name that clearly says “that’s a church” to those who hear it, even if it’s shortened. And be sure to include the word “church” in the full name.
• The name should be cautious of fillers. Honeydew melon is often in the fruit bowl to take up space and save money. Before you use words like “community” or “fellowship” be sure they are needed. Try to think past these words to a better, more meaningful use of sound, space and significance.
• The name should be aware of others. Your church is likely not the only one in town and certainly not the state or the country. Be cognizant of other churches who may be using the name (or similar) you’ve considered. Further, are there cultural stigmas or verbal synonyms associated with such a name that could bring confusion or embarrassment to the ministry?
• The name should be attractive to partners. Ministry runs in relationships. Churches partner with each other for gospel advancement. Never is that truer than in the early stages of planting. Your church name will likely be floated by dozens if not hundreds of potential partner churches, including their leaders and congregations. The name needs to be something churches can get behind, something they feel good about, and can capture their buy-in.
• The name should be emblematic of the pastor. Though the name represents a gathered people, it is the pastor who must cast the vision. The name should personify the pastor’s style, demeanor, posture and philosophy of ministry, bringing clarity and connection. Further, even if a core team is developed, it’s best if the pastor himself leads in the selection of the name.
• The name should connect with the sending church. There is likely ministry DNA that is transferable to the new church plant. Capture that if possible. Granted, the new church will contextualize its own ministry. However, make an attempt to harness some element of the sending church’s philosophy of ministry that will both excite the people who send and encourage those who are sent.

Think hard on selecting your name. Do not be intellectually (or prayerfully) flippant, negligent or just plain sloppy. But don’t think too much. It’s just a name. Like naming a baby, there are many good names. But do pick one you believe your child will like, your family will honor, and God will bless.

Again, there is not a chapter and verse when it comes to naming your church, but there is wisdom in an abundance of counselors. Test out the name, pray over it, and pull the trigger. Here are some final tips you may consider before doing so.

Pro Tips:

• Ask other Christians and church leaders. There is likely a reception that you haven’t thought of or adequately considered. Float the name to random people. Ask their initial reaction, completely detached from spiritual beliefs.
• Do a Google, and social media search on the name. You will not only discover what other churches hold a similar name, but other connections with it. You may find other articles on this topic that could be helpful. I like this one by Carey Nieuwhof.
• Contact the churches that hold the same or similar name. Ask about their experience with it, challenges they’ve faced and benefits they’ve seen. Further, ask why they selected the name and how it has served their mission and vision. I want to brag about the kindness of Pastor Bob Thune of Coram Deo Church in Omaha, NE, for graciously taking my call and exchanging a few emails.

Well, happy naming! I’d love to hear your suggestions, thoughts, and your church planting story. You can reach me directly at [email protected].