Church planting is something I have felt called to for a long time, even before I left for the Czech Republic. Before coming to Prague, I was a member of West End Mennonite Fellowship, where church planting is a vital part of the DNA. For a season, I was involved in one of their church plants, knowing that it was important to learn how a church plant works practically before trying something overseas.

Hold a seed in your hand and marvel at the miracle of life in miniature. Packed into the tiny package is all the potential, not only for expansive growth, but also for generations of reproduction.

The Anabaptist movement celebrates its 500th anniversary this year. In these five centuries, Anabaptist churches have been multiplied around the world, making it a truly global movement.

Lena Kauffman served as a participant in the 2023–24 Advance cohort. She is currently serving as an Advance staff intern for the 2024–25 Advance team. EMM Digital Communications Coordinator Julia Tsai interviewed Lena about her experience stepping up to take on a staff role.