Standard Publishing has reached an agreement to assume operations of the Energizing Smaller Churches Network (ESCN), including the upcoming 2007 conference season. Formed in 2005, the network supports and encourages smaller churches through regional conferences.

“I am excited about the leadership that Standard is bringing to this significant ministry,” said David Roadcup, executive director of the Center for Church Advancement at Cincinnati Christian University and founding member of ESCN. “The network, its people and its purpose have the potential to powerfully impact the work of the kingdom in our lifetime. There are literally thousands of churches that average attendance of 130 or less. If a large majority of these churches could be encouraged, supported and motivated to grow in reaching the lost in their ministry areas and expand their missions potential, the results for the growth of the kingdom could be astounding.”

Shawn McMullen was appointed director of the network and will head the steering committee for the organization.

“I'm excited in this role with ESCN as we embark on an aggressive year that includes producing 11 conferences, launching our new Web site and focusing on resources for smaller churches,” McMullen said. “There are a great number of smaller churches across the country having a large impact on the communities they serve. While much is written and publicized about the megachurch movement, ESCN exists to remind smaller churches around the country that they can have a 'mega' influence on people's lives.”

The ESCN conference “Releasing the Power of the Smaller Church” is scheduled for Feb. 22-23 in Dallas. For more information on the Energizing Smaller Churches Network, visit www.escnetwork.org.

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