The Church of Dirt is a fresh expression of faith that connects people through dirt bike racing. The ministry meets weekly, offering a place for racers to gather, ride, and grow spiritually. It started as a fundraising initiative for local and global missions but evolved into a church itself, where participants, especially younger members, find both community and faith.
“It’s really changed my life. When I first started coming here it wasn’t really about following Christ. It was just about the riding part but now it really is about following Christ.” -Noah Roy
“We want to go to racetracks across the country with these bikes and the kids will be racing and we’ll set up a place called the Church of Dirt. We’ll give people water, feed them and love on them—no strings—and if we’re camping we’ll share a short devotion.” – Winston Johnson
The Church of Dirt exemplifies how adventure and devotion can come together to create a fresh and impactful expression of church.
Snapshot of a Fresh Expression of Church
What is the Fresh Expression called?
The Church of Dirt
Where is it?
Abingdon, VA
Who is it for?
The Church of Dirt is for people of all ages who are drawn to competitive racing, particularly dirt biking. It attracts individuals who come for the thrill of riding but often end up having a spiritual experience.
What do they do?
The Church of Dirt provides a space for people to ride dirt bikes on their track and connects participants through faith. They meet at least twice a week, share devotions, offer water, food, and support to participants, and use the track as a ministry space where lives are changed and people are baptized.
Who is the Pioneer?
Winston Johnson is the pastor and pioneer behind The Church of Dirt. He sees the ministry as part of a larger mission to plant seven churches in seven countries in seven years.
Where can I learn more?
The Church of Dirt
