Our Story

Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

Five Steps to Multiply Leaders Without Adding Staff

Most small churches think they don’t have enough leaders. Truth is, they probably already do — they just haven’t developed them yet.

Building a leadership pipeline isn’t about big budgets or programs. It’s about intentionally helping people grow from serving faithfully to leading fruitfully.

In this post, Mission Strategist Chris Reinolds shares a simple, practical framework that any church can use to develop leaders one person at a time — proving that small churches can have a big impact.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

Deep Roots, New Fruit: How Exchange Church Is Reaching Yulee From the Inside Out

When Pastor Todd Carr launched Exchange Church, he wasn’t a stranger sent from afar — he was a neighbor called from within. After eighteen years of ministry in the same community, God used deep relationships and local trust to plant a vibrant new gospel witness in Yulee. This is the story of how long faithfulness, collaboration, and courage are bearing new fruit for the Kingdom.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

Guardrails for Grace: Why Every Church Needs Updated Bylaws in a Litigious World

Having worked with dozens of congregations across different seasons of ministry, I have seen what happens when churches face today’s legal and cultural realities without clear governance. In our increasingly litigious world, outdated or vague bylaws can leave a church vulnerable—not only to lawsuits from the outside but to division or power struggles from within. Updated bylaws, written with both biblical conviction and practical wisdom, serve as guardrails for grace. They protect the mission, preserve unity, and allow ministry to move forward with confidence and peace.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

On the Scent of Souls: First Baptist Fernandina Expands to Reach Central Nassau

When growth at First Baptist Church Fernandina left no more room to park or place new leaders, Pastor Zach Terry and the congregation saw more than a problem—they saw an opportunity. Partnering with Campus Pastor Josh Wood, the church launched a new campus in Central Nassau County to reach a growing community with the gospel. What began as a logistical challenge became a launching pad for Kingdom impact, proving again that healthy churches reproduce.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

A Tale of Two Churches: Mercy Hill’s 20-Year Journey of Faith, Humility, and Kingdom Impact

For more than 20 years, Pastor Mike Kwiatkowski and the people of Mercy Hill Church in Jacksonville have quietly modeled what it takes for a struggling congregation to find new life. What began as a small group of 80 uncertain believers has grown into a vibrant, disciple-making church sending pastors across Northeast Florida and South Georgia. Their story is not about gimmicks or quick fixes but about humility, perseverance, and a clear focus on the Great Commission.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

Kingdom Over Turf: 7 Reasons Associations Matter in Baptist Life

What does it mean to live with a Kingdom Over Turf mindset? In a culture that celebrates competition and territory, Baptist associations invite churches to link arms instead of draw lines. This post explores seven powerful ways associations help cultivate Gospel unity, strengthen church leaders, and advance the mission of Christ—together.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

Embracing the Ezekiel Assignment: 8 Keys for Faithful Ministry

Ministry isn’t always met with applause—and sometimes, like Ezekiel, you’re called to speak truth to those who won’t listen. This article explores 8 biblical insights to encourage pastors serving in hard places, reminding us that God honors faithfulness over fruitfulness. If you’ve ever felt discouraged in your calling, this is for you.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

What if the Next Decade of Gospel Impact in Northeast Florida Wasn’t Tied to a Building—But Fueled by It?

What if the next decade of gospel impact in Northeast Florida wasn’t tied to a building—but fueled by it?
In a bold step of faith, the Northeast Florida Baptist Association has voted to sell its office property and reinvest the proceeds into a Kingdom-focused endowment. This isn’t about downsizing—it’s about mobilizing. With nearly $1 million projected for ministry over the next 10 years, discover how this decision could shape the future of church planting, leadership development, revitalization, and pastoral care across our region.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

A Pivotal Opportunity for Our Family of Churches: Investing in the Future

On May 13, 2025, our Family of Churches will face a pivotal decision that could help shape the future of gospel ministry in Northeast Florida. By considering the sale of the Associational Office, we have the opportunity to reinvest in strengthening churches, planting new congregations, and equipping leaders for the harvest God is sending. Learn more about how this decision could position us for the next season of Kingdom impact.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

April Newsletter: 🔥 Staying on Mission + Protecting the Church You Love

This month, we reflect on a powerful gathering with Dr. Stephen Rummage as he encouraged our pastors and leaders to stay on mission amid division and distraction. We also explore how churches can clarify their calling, guard against threats like steeplejacking, and partner together for Kingdom impact. From local events and trips to leadership opportunities, there are plenty of ways to stay connected and engaged in our Family of Churches. Dive in and discover how God is moving across Northeast Florida.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

“Stay on Mission”: A Spirit-Led Morning with Dr. Stephen Rummage

At the heart of Dr. Stephen Rummage’s message to Northeast Florida pastors was a simple but powerful reminder: “Stay on mission.” In a season when distractions and division can easily derail the church, his call was clear—keep pressing forward, not alone, but together. As he put it, “Our mission flows from our fellowship—when we walk together in unity, we stay focused on what matters most.”

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

When a Church Chooses Death Over Life: Recognizing Your Moment for Renewal

🛑 Could Your Church Be at Risk of Being Taken Over? Some churches unknowingly stand at a dangerous crossroads—declining attendance, aging leadership, and outdated bylaws can make them vulnerable to something few are talking about: steeple jacking. In this article, Chris Reinolds, Associational Mission Strategist, shares insights from Luke 19 and offers practical steps to protect your church’s legacy, its resources, and its future gospel witness.

👉 Don’t wait until it’s too late. Read the full article to learn how to recognize your church’s moment for renewal and protect what God has entrusted to you.

Read More
Chris Reinolds Chris Reinolds

A Growing Mission Field – Who Will Go?

Thousands of families are about to move into one of the fastest-growing areas in Nassau County—yet zero churches are currently planned to reach them. As Jesus said in Luke 10:2, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” The question isn’t whether the harvest will come—it’s whether we’ll be ready.

Read More