SHN affiliate churches are based on relationship.  Whether its leaders developing a common bond in the gospel, or church members meeting us first, our friendship is one both parties benefit in promoting the good news of Jesus Christ.   

​

For example, at SHN we will have various ministries connected to us. Ministries already functioning in the body of Christ and REST ministries yet to be established by SHN.  Churches are based in a geographical locale.  A church may have someone who needs help that is not readily available.  It is possible SHN will have a connected ministry that can be of assistance.  Or it could be that one of the SHN REST ministries can help.  On the contrary, we could meet someone through our network looking for a church or help in your area.  We’ll be glad to send these folks your way.  Ever have someone ask if you know anyone in a particular city because their family member was in the hospital?  What if that someone was you?  Wouldn’t it be a relief to know a ministry in that city who could help?  This is where our network can assist.  And vise versa.

​

What’s the difference between being a church affiliated with SHN and a church referred to as a Lighthouse?  An affiliated church is purely relational and mutually beneficial in our common goals of the gospel.  An SHN Lighthouse is a more formal association.  SHN Lighthouses are either planted by Safe Harbor Network or adopted into our family if both parties agree.  A few more distinctions would be if an SHN Lighthouse had challenges within their leadership or members, SHN is available to come in and assist.  Assisting an affiliate church in such circumstances wouldn’t be wise as we would not have the same level of knowledge or relationship.  Becoming an SHN Lighthouse would open even more help and resources from our leadership counsel and network at large.  Such as teaching seminars, preaching, worship seminars, evangelism, (see our Fish Net ministry affiliation) etc.  Let’s say you have a small church without the ability or resources to conduct weekly services.  You could tap into our network weekly services. 

​

There are also SHN REST ministries you can host at your church for various needs.  Our Fish Net groups mentioned above is a unique approach to evangelism and reaching out to the hurting people all around you.  There are also other specialized ministries we have a vision for.  Drug addiction recovery, marriage counseling, etc.  We prefer if you decide to adopt one of our REST ministries in your local church you become affiliated with us.  Just so you know, there is no obligation on your part in affiliating.  Meaning no financial commitments, responsibilities, etc.  That is unless you decide to adopt one of our REST ministries in your church or organization.  

The idea of affiliation is to have a home.  Somewhere you can hang your hat so to say.  No one should be out there alone.  That’s why the concept of “network” is in our name.  If you have other affiliations or part of another denomination, no big deal.  We still welcome you to our network.  

​

Affiliation with SHN means we will never impose anything on you.  We’re not here for you to do it “our way.” We believe in diversity and inclusion.  The only thing we hold as a necessity is our common bond in the gospel.  The best way to describe an affiliation with SHN would be that we would cooperate whenever possible.  Friends in the gospel. Remember, SHN affiliation is relational.  Why don’t we get to know each other?  Maybe God has big things for us together!