Wellspring NC

This new church began as a dream planted by God in the heart of Eric Newkirk, our lead pastor. While serving as a pastor at a church in Florida, Eric and his wife Laura sensed God stirring them to start a new church that would be built around the foundation of making disciples who make disciples in relationship. With the blessing and support of their home church, the Newkirks prayed about what city God was calling them to. After visiting several cities, God made it clear that Raleigh was the place for them! The Newkirks and their four kids settled in Wake Forest in the summer of 2014. Nearby Journey Church partnered with the vision by extending the opportunity to recruit members from their church to join the launch team of this new church. After months of building relationships and having lots of people over for dinner, Eric held the first Vision Meeting on November 16, 2014. 42 adults (and 26 kids) attended that first gathering, many of whom committed to join the launch team. Over the following months, many more Vision Nights were hosted, slowly growing the launch team. In March 2015, the launch team began meeting weekly to discuss foundational values. This was a rich time, with deep relationships formed. Meanwhile, small group leaders were trained, and in July of 2015 four LIFEgroups began meeting regularly. September 20, 2015 marked the Grand Opening of Wellspring Church as we held our first public worship service with 217 in attendance. Over the following months, Wellspring’s heart for giving back has been exemplified in serving teachers’ breakfasts, hosting community festivities, and hosting two Stop Hunger Now events. LIFEgroups continue to be a core foundation, where people are known and encouraged to take their next step of faith. We are excited to embrace all that God has in store for us!