Need
The city needed to have a need for a healthy church. A place that is often given the title of “where church plants go to die” is certainly in need of a body of Christ doing Great Commission work there.
In a city boasting a population of over 460,000 residents, characterized by its remarkable transience, we can pinpoint only a few thriving churches. Furthermore, an astounding 331,000+ residents in the vicinity admit to not attending church on a regular basis.
Evidently, the scarcity of churches in Virginia Beach fails to provide ample support for the existing believers, nor does it adequately address the task of reaching the unchurched populations in those communities.
“an astounding 331,000+ residents in the vicinity admit to not attending church on a regular basis.”
— North American Mission Board
Global Reach
The city should possess the capacity to extend its reach globally. The Gospel transcends boundaries, spreading across various locations and generations, facilitated by individuals who carry out the Great Commission through their journeys.
We believe that when people are equipped by the local church and then sent out into their workplaces and the world; gospel work continues. Being in a city of expanding influence where people are here today and gone the next, the church would be positioned with the unique opportunity not just to impact their Jerusalem but Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the Earth.
The Nations
Virginia Beach stands out as one of the most culturally diverse cities in Virginia, with ethnically diverse people constituting nearly 50% of its population and 10% of residents being born outside of the United States. This rich diversity offers a unique opportunity for a church to connect with various nations right within its own community, fostering a global perspective on missions within the congregation.
Evidently, the scarcity of churches in Virginia Beach fails to provide ample support for the existing believers, nor does it adequately address the task of reaching the unchurched populations in those communities.
“ethnically diverse people constituting nearly 50% of its population and 10% of residents being born outside of the United States.”
— North American Mission Board
Call
We were aware that regardless of the location we chose for planting a church, the commitment required would extend beyond mere desire; it would necessitate a profound calling from the Lord to that specific area.
After an eight-month period of prayer and visits to numerous cities—where we meticulously evaluated more than 36 distinctive locations spanning the United States and Canada—we unmistakably received the Lord’s distinct call to the Virginia Beach area. A call so clear and foundational that could sustain us even when things are difficult.
CrossView Community Church 