What does it look like to truly live by faith? In this powerful episode of the City Light Church Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Andrew Butler of Near Church to hear one of the most raw, real, and inspiring church planting stories you’ll ever hear.

From battling depression and wrestling with God’s call as a teenager to surrendering a secure ministry job and uprooting his family to move to a city he had no connection to—Andrew’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Just months after stepping out in obedience to plant a church in Bowling Green, Kentucky, the unthinkable happened: COVID-19 hit.

With lockdowns canceling launch plans and venues shutting down, Andrew and his small launch team faced obstacle after obstacle. But through it all, what emerged wasn’t just a church—it was a movement of faith, obedience, and radical generosity.

💬 In this episode, we talk about:

How God interrupted Andrew’s life at 16 and called him to preach

Wrestling with doubt, fear, and poverty mindsets in ministry

Hearing a call to plant a church in a city he only visited once—as a kid

Moving to Bowling Green with zero connections and a word from God

What it’s like launching a church during a global pandemic

The spiritual and emotional weight of church planting

The entrepreneurial grind: from pastor to roofing to graphic design

Miraculous moments of provision and generosity that made no sense on paper

Why hearing God clearly often comes before seeing anything at all

The importance of building God's Kingdom—not personal empires

Unity among churches, collaboration over competition, and reaching the city together

What God is doing right now in Bowling Green, KY

And yes… a hilarious story involving a hoarder’s house, a fried chicken revival, and freestyle rapping in a La-Z-Boy 🪑🎤🍗

🔥 If you’ve ever questioned your calling, felt like giving up, or wondered if your obedience was really worth it—this episode is for you. Whether you're in ministry, starting a business, or just trying to follow Jesus faithfully, Andrew's story will strengthen your faith and remind you that even when reality doesn't match the vision, God is still working.

🙏 Let us know in the comments how this conversation encouraged you, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone who needs a reminder that God is faithful—even in the wilderness.

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🔗 Learn more about Near Church: https://www.nearchurch.co/