why plant?
Why Plant?
Church planting isn’t about being trendy or chasing what’s new. It’s about stepping into the long, faithful work of the Great Commission—joining what God has been doing long before the Wardens ever knew about Chic’s Beach, and what He will continue doing long after they’re gone. Church plants aim to partner with other local churches to bring the freedom and hope of Christ to their neighbors, meeting people right where they are.
Because they’re typically smaller, church plants often create space for people to be known, loved, and brought into community more quickly. They also offer a welcoming place for those who might not feel comfortable walking into a more traditional church setting. In many ways, church planting is less about innovation and more about returning to the basics—loving our neighbors intentionally with the Gospel in specific communities.
Why Chic’s Beach?
When Clay and Lindsay first moved to coastal Virginia, hurricanes and tidal flooding were things they had only read about. Over the past seven years, however, they've come to love not just the unique geography, but the culture, opportunities, and people that make the 757 such a special place to call home. Learning to live in the ebbs and flows of a Navy town has shaped them, stretched them, and deepened their heart for the region.
The PCA churches in our area share a vision: to plant one church for every public high school in the 757. This vision isn’t based on the belief that the PCA is the only way the Gospel is going forward—it’s about being intentional to know, love, and serve our neighbors well, and to see more communities reached with the hope of Jesus.
As Clay and Lindsay began praying about church planting, they kept coming back to a map showing where PCA churches were already established. One gap stood out clearly: the Shore Drive corridor, running from the North End to Willoughby Spit. As they continued to pray and listen, their hearts were drawn more and more to neighborhoods like Chic’s Beach and Thoroughgood. The unique blend of people, small businesses, parks, and coastline stirred their excitement and calling.
They’re now stepping into this next season with great anticipation—ready to plant roots, build relationships, and see how God will move in and through the Chic’s Beach community in the years ahead.