In this powerful conversation, hosts Ben Borgman and Glenn Underhill connect with David Pothier, senior pastor of La Chapelle Church in Montreal, to unpack what it looks like to ignite a disciple-making movement in one of the most secular, post-Christian environments in North America.
David shares how God turned a small gathering into a vibrant, multi-site church—despite cultural resistance, government restrictions, and spiritual apathy. You’ll hear about the bold moves it takes to develop leaders in places where leadership pipelines are sparse, and how a culture of multiplication can take root even in the hardest soil.
This episode is filled with practical insight and spiritual encouragement for church leaders, disciple-makers, and anyone longing to see a movement of Jesus-followers grow and multiply in their context.
Be inspired to lead intentionally. Invest deeply. Multiply boldly. The harvest is ready—even in hard places.
Overview:
- 00:00 Church Planting Challenges in Montreal
- 03:20 Faith Conversations Inspire Action
- 07:08 “Vision-Driven Church Planting Journey”
- 12:24 Early Riser Commitment for Church
- 16:16 Cultivating a Multiplying Culture
- 17:29 “Seeking Community and Mission”
- 22:21 “Church Renovation Miracle”
- 25:48 Montreal Church Plant Renovation Initiative
- 29:12 “Cross Creek’s Impactful Vision”
- 32:09 “Exploring Disciple-Making Leaders”
- 34:17 “Intentional Leadership and Multiplication”
- 38:21 Vision for Spreading Gospel Globally
- 39:46 Supporting Church and Ministry Initiatives
Discussion Questions:
- In your context, what would it look like to intentionally create leaders rather than search for ready-made ones?
- What parallels can you draw between David’s setting and your own? How does cultural opposition affect disciple making and church leadership where you serve?
- What strategies did David’s team use to engage non-churched people, and how can those principles be applied elsewhere?
- What practical steps can a leader take to nurture this kind of culture in their church or ministry?
- How did La Chapelle Church’s experience with government restrictions and losing meeting spaces build resilience among its leaders and members? How can churches prepare for unexpected challenges?
- What does it mean for staff and volunteers to be “all-in,” and how does La Chapelle use demanding logistics (like early setup) as a discipleship opportunity?
- David described church as an “oasis” for believers in a secular culture. How can churches in less hostile environments recover a similar sense of mission and community?
- How important is it for a church to have a vision that goes beyond its immediate context? What challenges and benefits does this bring?
- How does La Chapelle utilize everyday activities, such as unloading trucks or volunteering, as opportunities for disciple making? What are some overlooked opportunities for discipleship in your context?
- How do collaborations and shared resources advance the mission of church planting and leadership development?
