Dino Rizzo on Strength in Unity: How Church Networks Foster Growth and Longevity

The church has always been a dynamic and evolving movement, shaped by leaders, communities, and the unique ways they bring the gospel to life. Over the years, Dino Rizzo, President of the Association of Related Churches (ARC), has observed how collaboration, strategy, and shared insight can strengthen church planting efforts and enhance their impact.

Networks play a vital role in this process, offering a foundation of support, wisdom, and connection that empowers pastors and church planters alike.

Church networks are more than just affiliations—they are lifelines that foster growth, encourage innovation, and provide a space for leaders to navigate the ever-changing landscape of ministry. When Dino Rizzo and his wife, DeLynn, founded Healing Place Church in Baton Rouge in 1993, they quickly realized the power of relationships and partnerships. What began as a small church plant with twelve people grew into a thriving, multi-location community that serves thousands weekly.

That growth was possible because of the strength found in unity and collaboration.

As the co-founder of ARC (Association of Related Churches), Rizzo has witnessed this same principle at work. Over the years, ARC has planted more than 1,000 churches, each with its own culture, vision, and leadership but unified in a shared mission—to spread hope and serve communities effectively. The impact of these networks extends beyond planting churches; they provide mentorship, resources, and ongoing support that help pastors sustain their ministries for the long haul.

1. Adapting to Cultural Change – Ministry today looks different than it did even a decade ago. Engaging people authentically requires understanding cultural shifts, leveraging digital tools, and remaining flexible in outreach methods. By prioritizing relationships over rigid structures, churches can stay relevant and impactful.
2. Leveraging Technology for Connection – Digital platforms allow churches to expand their reach beyond physical walls. Whether through online services, social media engagement, or leadership training, technology has become a critical tool in building community and sharing the gospel.
3. Prioritizing Pastor and Leader Well-Being – One of the greatest challenges in ministry today is leader burnout. The pressures of church planting and pastoring can be overwhelming, making it essential to invest in pastoral care, mental health resources, and leadership development. Through ARC and partnerships like The Well Clinic in Baton Rouge, efforts have been made to ensure that church planters receive the support they need to thrive spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

The future of the church is bright. The mission is vast, and no single organization or leader can fulfill it alone. Collaboration strengthens the broader body of Christ, ensuring that churches remain places of hope, healing, and transformation.

Dino Rizzo, a 35-year ministry veteran, co-founded Healing Place Church with his wife, DeLynn, where he served as senior pastor for two decades. Through his passion for inspiring believers to serve their communities, Dino Rizzo founded Servolution and authored "Serve Your City." Rizzo serves as the President of ARC (Association of Related Churches), which has planted more than 1100 churches worldwide, and is on the Senior Leadership Team at Church of the Highlands.