What if just five churches could spark a disciple-making movement that transforms hundreds of lives across the Texas District? That vision is becoming reality thanks to the Catalyst Innovation Lab, whose generosity and leadership made it possible for five LCMS congregations to take their first intentional steps toward multiplying disciples of Jesus.
Through a partnership with Disciples Made and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Houston, these congregations began the Discipleship Multiplication Lab this fall—a one-year journey of coaching and training designed to move churches from addition-based growth to multiplication-based disciple-making.
The Launch: Five Churches, One Vision
After months of prayer, discernment, and preparation, we officially launched on September 12-13 at University Lutheran Chapel in College Station. Leaders from the following congregations gathered to begin the journey together:
- Prince of Peace, Carrollton
- Lamb of God, Flower Mound
- University Lutheran Chapel, Texas A&M
- Messiah, Houston
- Faith, Sugar Land
More than 30 participants came together for worship, fellowship, and training. We wrestled with questions like: How spiritually vital are our congregations? Are we truly engaging our communities? Are our systems built for multiplication—or maintenance?
From there, we explored both theology and strategy, and then got practical: each congregation is now launching at least one Intentional Disciple-Making Environment. The first step for many is Followers Made, a 6-month experience that cultivates spiritual habits, develops Christ-like character, clarifies personal calling, and equips participants to lead others.
The Multiplication Effect
Here’s what makes this so exciting: multiplication happens naturally when disciples grow in character and calling.
If each of the five churches launches a group of 12, that’s 60 participants this year. Experience shows that about 20% will feel called to lead, so 12 new disciple-makers emerge.
The following year, both the original leaders and these new leaders launch cohorts. That’s 204 more people discipled and 41 more disciple-makers raised up.
By the end of year three, as the cycle continues, more than 1,000 people will have been intentionally discipled and nearly 200 disciple-makers mobilized in the Texas District. By year four, that impact could more than triple—over 3,000 participants and more than 650 disciple-makers—all sparked by five churches willing to try something new.
Why It Matters
This movement isn’t about numbers—it’s about transformation. It’s about parents discipling their children, congregations mobilizing members for mission, and communities blessed as followers of Jesus live out their unique callings. This is what Jesus promised in John 10:10: a Fully Alive life, forged in community and fixated on the mission.
Looking Ahead
We are deeply thankful for the Catalyst Innovation Lab for making this possible. Because of their support, disciple multiplication has taken root in Texas—and this is only the beginning.
We look forward to the next round of LCMS congregations joining the journey. If your church is ready to equip everyday believers for mission, visit disciplesmade.com to learn more about coaching. Or, if you’re personally ready to grow or lead, join the FULLY ALIVE by Disciples Made Digital Platform & Community at gofullyalive.com.
Multiplication starts with one step of faith. Will your church be part of what God is doing next?
By Jason Phelps, DCE
Discipling Director | Gloria Dei Houston | gdlc.org
Coach | Disciples Made | disciplesmade.com
