“Over this next year, I am going to require that every local church develop a plan for forming disciples.” – Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi, 2026 Annual Conference

Discipleship is the process in which we learn about about, grow closer to, and gradually become more like Jesus. At the 2026 Annual Conference Bishop Moore-Koikoi invited every congregation to create a clear, intentional pathway that helps people move from initial faith exploration to mature discipleship and active participation in Christ’s mission.

Over the next year, we’ll share tips from leaders in EPA & GNJ who are doing it well.

But it’s never too soon to make a beginning. If you are taking the first step into thinking about how to create a discipleship plan for your congregation, there are a number of resources that can support you in your efforts.

The Connectional Ministries team created an excellent Discipleship Pathway. This simple guide is designed to help your congregation build a more robust discipleship plan using programs and activities your congregation may already have planned.

Download EPA & GNJ’s Discipleship Guide here

Additionaly, Discipleship Ministries has also created, Developing an Intentional Discipleship System: A Guide for Congregations

This booklet serves as an excellent first step, offering a framework for supporting people who are searching, exploring, beginning, growing, and maturing in their faith journey. This resource is available in multiple languages as a free download or for purchase at the Discipleship Ministries Store.

Focus deeper on one area of discipleship.

In addition to the guidebook for Intentional Discipleship, Discipleship Ministries also has created practical resources designed to help your congregation engage you communities, strengthen online worship, and cultivate generosity.

Click the link and scroll down to find resources that will help you focus in on one area of discipleship.

Stay tuned for more resources, but in the meantime we hope that this helps you get started!