Mars Hill Church is sending Pastor Mark Bergin to start a new church in Chicago, The Painted Door. This interview with Pastor Bergin (2 of 3) is a continuation of part one...

How do you think The Painted Door will be similar to Mars Hill?

MB: The commitment to gospel-centered, Jesus-loving, Bible-teaching, sin-debasing ministry will be identical, as will be the commitment to cultural contextualization. We’ll also share a similar affinity for aesthetic excellence and kickin’ music. And the same emphasis on community-based rhythms of mission will define our church life.

What will life be like at The Painted Door?

MB: We want to be culturally sensible to ex-Catholics, immigrant families, and urban professionals. We want to cultivate a rhythm of sending, wherein leaders are continually challenged to leave and start new churches. In addition, we'll place a strong emphasis on ministries of mercy and social justice.

What other churches or organizations are you partnering with to plant The Painted Door?

MB: Mars Hill is sending us out with blessing, finances, and even people. We’ll also be an Acts 29 church, which gives us great relational support and street cred. More recently, we’ve connected with Converge, John Piper’s crew. They’ve hooked us up with tons of administrative support, and will front us some money, too, if I can squeeze through their assessment process in August. Continued... Want to know more about The Painted Door? Come to the Shoreline campus on Monday for dessert and discussion. August 3 from 7–8:30 PM.