A StartNew Church Outreach

Rev. Mike Von Behren and his congregation wanted to bring the Gospel to the unchurched of their community – the families who would never set foot in Holy Cross Lutheran in Spokane, Washington.  

They could partner with local schools to provide parenting classes; open an art center combining Christ-Centered faith lessons with fine art; or start a ministry that provided work for the refugees in their area. 

Like many churches, they had ideas but lacked experience and a plan. 

Through FiveTwo Mike and his team connected with other men and women wired to reach new people. 

While learning from others’ experience, they realized the importance of asking their community “What can we do for you?”.  

They discovered the refugees in their community greatly needed affordable housing.  Mike and his team wanted to provide affordable housing but still felt confused on where to begin.

After attending a FiveTwo workshop, Mike and his team got clarity and knew they could make this dream a reality.   They formed a for profit LLC called Ten Talents Ministries. 

Ten Talents Ministries partnered with over 20 investors and purchased two duplexes in Spokane. 

Over the past three years, the duplexes have provided below market rental housing for three refugees families.  It’s a successful business in that the shareholders have seen a return on their investment.  

Best of all, Mike and his congregation have shared the love of Jesus through Thanksgiving dinners, baby showers for expectant refugee mothers, and purchasing and building bunkbeds. 

The community garden started by Mike’s church has plots maintained by 38 refugee families, most of whom are Hindu. Mike says, “We are committed to sharing the love of Jesus and good news with them all.”