Church planting is one of the most exciting and faith-stretching journeys a leader can take. But it’s also full of moments that feel heavy, lonely, and confusing.
The truth? Most planters face the same challenges—whether they talk about them or not.
Here are seven difficulties nearly every church planter experiences—and how to push through without losing heart.
1. Your Launch Team Won’t Be As Passionate As You Are
You’re the one carrying the vision. That means you’ll naturally care more, sacrifice more, and stay up later thinking about it. It can feel frustrating when your team doesn’t share your level of urgency—but that doesn’t mean they’re against you.
Not everyone will match your intensity, and that’s okay. Your job is to lead, disciple, and model the kind of passion you hope to see grow in others.
2. Your Launch Team Won’t Be As Large As You Thought
We all have grand visions—dozens of people rallying together to launch something new. But most planters realize quickly that fewer people show up than expected.
That doesn’t mean the vision is wrong—it just means expectations need to adjust. Small teams can still plant healthy, thriving churches. Don’t wait for a magic number. Lead who you have.
3. Some People You Expect to Give Financially Won’t
You thought they would be your biggest supporters. But when the pledge card comes back blank—or doesn’t come back at all—it stings.
Remember: financial giving is often tied to timing, season of life, and personal conviction. Don’t take it personally. Celebrate the people who do give. God always provides, just not always through the people you expected.
4. Some People You Expect to Join Your Team Won’t
You’ve had the coffee. You’ve cast the vision. They were excited… until they weren’t.
This is a common part of the journey. People change their minds, their season shifts, or their priorities get real. The right people will come—just don’t get stuck waiting on the wrong ones.
5. Finding Space Is Harder Than You Think
Schools say no. Community centers are booked. That perfect storefront falls through at the last second.
Finding a meeting space often takes longer and costs more than you planned. But don’t panic. Your church isn’t a building—it’s people on mission. Keep praying. Keep asking. God will open the right door.
6. Fundraising Will Keep You Up at Night
Even the most faith-filled planters feel the pressure of finances. Bills stack up, gear needs buying, and you still have to pay rent.
This tension is real—and you’re not the only one lying awake wondering how it will all come together. Work the plan, make the ask, and trust God to show up (often at the last minute).
7. Comparison Will Only Hurt You
It’s so tempting to look sideways—to measure your success against the church that launched bigger, grew faster, or raised more money.
But comparison kills momentum and breeds insecurity. God didn’t call you to plant their church. He called you to be faithful right where you are.
Keep your eyes on your people, your city, and your next step.
You’re Not the Only One
If you’ve felt discouraged by these challenges, know this:
You’re not weak. You’re not failing.
You’re just… planting a church.
At Mission Support, we help churches like yours streamline operations, improve communication, and build stronger teams. Whether it’s branding, strategic planning, or website development, we partner with pastors so they can focus on what matters most.
Need help getting your systems in place? Let’s talk.👉 Click HERE to set up a meeting.
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This post is just the tip of the iceberg. Most of this content comes straight from our Practical Church Podcast—a bi-weekly show packed with real-world insights, honest conversations, and practical solutions for life in and around the Church.
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