Missional Innovation Hub Aims to Empower Local Churches

Malone University in Canton, Ohio, has launched the Missional Innovation Hub, a pioneering ministry initiative designed to help churches, nonprofits, and community organizations respond more effectively to modern challenges. Spearheaded by Rev. Jack Radcliffe, the hub provides resources, coaching, spiritual direction, and collaborative spaces to foster mission-driven transformation at the local level.

The hub features four key components: incubating new ministry ideas, providing leadership training and spiritual development, facilitating research and thought leadership, and hosting events like seminars and workshops. These tools aim to close the gap between traditional church knowledge and modern missional practice.

Radcliffe, a Malone alumnus, was inspired to create the hub after pastoring a struggling church in Michigan during the pandemic. Lacking sufficient resources to support its outward-focused vision, the church sought support from the Tampa Underground Network. The experience helped Radcliffe understand the need for a collaborative innovation space where churches could adapt to changing cultural dynamics.

The hub has formed partnerships with local organizations such as Canton Abbey, Flourish Ministries, Akron Leadership Foundation, and Force America. It is also working with diverse denominations to form summer cohorts and facilitate real-time collaboration.

Revs. J.R. and Amy Rozko of Common Life Church, both connected to Malone, were instrumental in shaping the vision. They emphasized the need for deep collaboration across congregations and a centralized space for contextual resources. Malone University’s administration supported the idea, which received faculty approval in November.

The initiative is already bearing fruit through events and partnerships, offering a space for emerging models of discipleship. Brew Pastors, for example, is using the hub to connect with those facing personal challenges outside of traditional church settings.

Radcliffe defines success as “kingdom flourishing,” where churches actively demonstrate the Good News through community restoration, reconciliation, and creative outreach. For more details, refer to the original article on The Repository.