In April 2007, two important events took place: the first continental congress was held in Puerto Rico and on April 19, the founding board of directors signed the documents of incorporation to make Multiplication Network Ministries an official organization with the U.S. government. Rev. Tim Koster, pastor of Emmanuel Christian Reformed Church, had been very supportive of the idea of incorporating the organization so that we could hire people and provide tax receipts to those who donated to the cause. Tim Koster was the first chairman of the Board of Directors and George VandeWerken, Paul VanderAa, and John Wagenveld were the other founding members of the board.
The ideas of having a presence in 100 countries, material in over 10 languages, and the rallying cry of “More Churches, Stronger Churches” surfaced during this time along with Multiplication Network Ministries’ official name, logo, and new staff members.
Several people were hired part-time in Quito, Ecuador to prepare PowerPoints, lay out the materials, and do some graphic design but Juan Carlos and John determined that the ministry needed someone full-time. Rommel Salazar became the first full-time employee of Multiplication Network Ministries and is still part of the team today. One of Rommel’s greatest initial contributions was the creation of our original logo.