About

A few years ago, twenty-one churches in Arvada, Colorado united to start a neighboring movement in our community. We kept things simple and challenged the people in our congregations to take the next small step with their literal neighbors. The movement has spread, and to date over 1,000 churches are using the Art of Neighboring resources.

If you are interested in starting a neighboring movement in your community, or if you would just like more information about what we’re doing, check out our resources page.

About the Authors

Dave Runyon is the co-founder and director of CityUnite, which helps government, business, and faith leaders unite around common causes. He also serves as a consultant for businesses that have a desire to make a difference in their communities. Previously, Dave served as a pastor for nine years at Foothills Community Church and The Next Level Church. In 2010 he launched a neighboring movement that mobilized over 70 churches and 40,000 people in the Denver Metro area. He graduated from Colorado State University, where he studied history and secondary education. He speaks locally and nationally encouraging leaders to work together for the good of their cities. Dave and his wife, Lauren, have four kids and do not plan to have any more. Contact Dave.

Jay Pathak is the lead pastor of Mile High Vineyard Church, which has campuses in Arvada, Denver and Westminster, Colorado. Prior to planting Mile High in 2001, Jay served at the Columbus Vineyard and was one of the leaders in its young-adult ministry, Joshua House. Additionally, he served as an intern to the senior pastor, Rich Nathan. Jay is a graduate of Ohio State University with a BA in philosophy and a graduate of the Vineyard Leadership Institute. He has spoken nationally and internationally for the Vineyard and other groups in both conference and classroom settings. Currently he serves on the National Board of Vineyard USA. Jay and his wife, Danielle, have two daughters. Contact Jay.

In the News

Endorsements

Our church spent a month studying and applying the principles found in The Art of Neighboring. It's simple yet powerful. I love this book and the impact it's having.

- John Ortberg, Senior Pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church

Building relationships with our neighbors leads to better communities, better cities, and ultimately... a better world. I encourage you to read this book and step outside your front door and start making a difference.

- Ken Blanchard, coauthor of The One Minute Manager and Lead Like Jesus

Thought-provoking yet practical. The truths in the book have the potential to transform not only your life but also your entire community.

- Margaret Feinberg