Mission Him Possible

In this follow-up conversation with Tim Gillespie, we go beyond the remarkable turnaround of Crosswalk Church and dive into a surprising next chapter: choosing multiplication over expansion. Instead of building a bigger building, Crosswalk made a countercultural decision—to plant churches locally and globally. Tim shares how that shift happened, what it required, and why it fundamentally reshaped the church’s identity and future. We talk openly about the role—and risks—of charismatic leadership and pastoral fame, why so many megachurches eventually struggle or collapse, and what structures, habits, and spiritual postures can help prevent that. Tim also reflects on his own journey: stepping out of the spotlight, moving into a new season, and why he now serves at Adventist Health. The conversation explores deeper systemic questions: What’s the difference between governance in non-denominational and denominational churches—and why does it matter? What can European churches learn from the Crosswalk story when it comes to church planting? Why does the future of mission likely depend on diversified churches—different expressions for different regions, cultures, and neighborhoods—rather than one-size-fits-all models? This episode is for leaders, planters, and anyone wrestling with how the church can stay healthy, humble, and mission-focused in a complex, post-Christian world.

In this episode, I talk with Tim Gillespie, former Lead Pastor of Crosswalk Church, about one of the most remarkable turnaround stories in Adventism. Tim shares how Crosswalk went from the brink of closing—with fewer than 80 people—to becoming a thriving community of over 1,000 members, expanding across continents and influencing churches worldwide. We explore the factors behind this growth: a clear mission, intentional branding, a focused target audience, and a commitment to authenticity and spiritual depth. Tim reflects on what made Crosswalk work, what other churches often overlook, and how much of their success can translate to the European context. If you’re passionate about church planting, revitalization, or reaching the next generation, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration from someone who’s lived the journey.

In this episode of Mission Him Possible, Rob from British Columbia shares the story behind a remarkable church plant in Squamish. He talks about how he built the community from scratch — finding people who believed in the vision and shaping a church that became a living expression of faith and belonging. Rob also opens up about the challenges along the way, including his experience with burnout and the difficult but redemptive process of transitioning leadership to a new pastor. It’s an honest and encouraging conversation about calling, community, and the courage it takes to let go so that God’s mission can continue to grow.

In this episode of Mission Him Possible, I sit down with Randy to talk about his church plant Common Ground in Oregon—created for people who love the outdoors. Together, they explore what it means to celebrate the good in life as an expression of God’s presence, and how this shapes a faith community that speaks to busy people with overflowing calendars. Randy shares why small groups aren’t just an add-on at Common Ground, but the heartbeat of the church itself—and why they gather for a full worship service with all groups only once a month.