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When Pastors Dave and Kerry Jackson prepared to launch Rise Church in Asheville, North Carolina, their hearts were full of expectation. After nearly a decade of praying, fasting and seeking God’s direction, they felt certain of their calling to plant a life-giving church in a city that had once been a place of rejuvenation for them.
Their official launch date was set. Plans were in motion. Guests were invited. But just days before opening weekend, a hurricane swept through the region — bringing with it destruction, flooding and power outages that left them and their launch team completely cut off.
“We woke up to the sound of trees breaking,” Dave recalled. “Our neighborhood was full of downed trees. We couldn’t get out. Power and phone service were gone. There was no way we could have our launch that weekend.”
What began as a devastating setback soon became a moment of transformation — not just for Rise Church but for their entire community. The Jacksons quickly pivoted, mobilizing resources and support through partnerships, including Convoy of Hope and the Association of Related Churches.
Within days, ARC churches from across the country began reaching out, asking how they could help. Some brought supplies. Others gave financially. Many offered prayers, encouragement and boots-on-the-ground support.
“We had our phones blowing up as soon as service was restored,” Dave said. “Our ARC church family wanted to know what we needed and how they could show up. And they did — spiritually, financially and physically.”
Rise Church set up in Asheville High School’s parking lot and began serving the city. With tractor trailers full of food, water and clothing, they partnered with local organizations and national churches to meet the urgent needs of residents affected by the storm.
But it wasn’t just about emergency aid. It was about showing the love of Jesus at a time when people needed it most. “What we thought was going to take us out, God used to build us,” said Dave. “It brought our team together and made us stronger.”
The response from ARC wasn’t just a display of generosity, it was a model of what ARC was built for: equipping church leaders, standing with planters and showing up when it matters most.
For Rise Church, the storm delayed their launch — but it didn’t derail their mission. In fact, it refined it. Thanks to ARC’s support, they stepped into their role as a church, not just planted in the city but planted for it.
About the Association of Related Churches
The Association of Related Churches represents a collaborative network comprising independent congregations from various denominations, networks and backgrounds. Its primary mission is to provide essential support and resources to church planters and pastors, enabling them to effectively share the teachings of Jesus Christ. ARC’s operational approach revolves around empowering and equipping church leaders, thus helping them foster the widespread dissemination of Christ’s life-changing message. Established in 2000, ARC has evolved into a worldwide entity and has played a pivotal role in facilitating the establishment of over 1,160 new churches globally.
