“The training and support I received through CFCM (Cru Fellowship for Church Multiplication–Church Movement’s residency fellowship for church-planters) has helped us build a church with a clear movement mindset,” says Drake. “We’re seeing that DNA already come to life as we reach neighbors, form discipleship communities, and equip leaders who carry the gospel wherever they go.” (Pastor James Drake, Christ Church Miami)

Multiplying the Gospel in Miami: How Cru Church Movements Is Powering a New Church Launch

When Christ Church Miami opened its doors, it wasn’t just another church plant—it was the beginning of a multiplying gospel movement in one of America’s most diverse and dynamic cities.

Cru Church Movements has been a vital partner, investing deeply in the vision, leadership, and DNA of this new congregation. Senior Pastor James Drake and his team have been equipped to launch with a clear, movement-minded focus—one that’s committed to winning people to Jesus, building them up in faith, and sending them out as everyday missionaries into Miami’s neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools.  Last year James Drake went through our Cru Fellowship for Church Multiplication Training which was a yearlong national church  planting residency (Internship).  Joseph was a part of the design,  planning the residency and served on the speaking/training team for Pastor James and 38 other leaders around the nation.

The steps of faith that Christ Church’s team and community took led to 30 people indicating decisions to receive Christ on launch Sunday!

That movement mindset—to multiply disciples and leaders rather than simply gather attenders—is at the core of Cru Church Movements’ vision. By embedding this DNA from day one, Christ Church Miami is already living out a vibrant expression of the gospel in community, embodying the idea that every believer is a missionary in their everyday context.

“We are so thankful for Cru’s continued investment in our launch and in shaping the heart of our ministry. We instilled multiplication DNA from the very beginning. We truly believe the best is yet to come.” (Pastor Drake) 

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Partnering with Every One Free as their case manager Michelle was a part of celebrating the graduation of their 100th survivor this past month! Survivors join a 2-hour class every week for 24 weeks called Pathways to Freedom. We also offer a weekly support group, and survivors meet with Michelle regularly to receive support and resources. 

Every ONE Free started as an outreach to women being exploited. Now, our Pathways to Freedom Program offers survivors a way to heal and rebuild lives outside of exploitation.  It is such a blessing to walk alongside these strong women as they find new hope and rebuild their lives. 

Here is a testimony of one of the women Michelle is working with—Praise God for her new life!

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Family Update…
Michelle celebrated her 50th Birthday, Aleeya turned 14 years old, and we had a wonderful Christmas season with much needed family time together!  Aleeya has completed her second book “The Shattered Journey” and she is in the process of submitting to literary agents to hopefully have it published! We are trying to cherish each day…

Thank you for your continual prayers and support to us here as we minister withing Los Angeles and nationwide.  Helping to train and disciple leaders, plant churches and serve trafficked and exploited women through sharing the love of Jesus and providing resources and hope.  We are so thankful.