First Events

(This is 1 of 2 updates posted Wed, Dec 7. See also the Building Update below)

In the last two weeks we've had two occasions for the community to gather in our newly updated building. This building was lightly used for over two years and so for us to open it up and begin to encourage people to move in and through the driveway, parking lot, and building is a great first-step in becoming an integral part of the neighborhoods we stand among.

On Thanksgiving Day we offered a free brunch for anyone who would like to join us. The first folks to walk in were people who probably would not be going anywhere else to celebrate the holiday - what a blessing we could be to them! Later we had visits from our neighbors, some of whom had never been in the building...ever...others who had stopped in before we demolished it, and others who had only been following the process from our conversations or watching our coming and goings. It's kinda a weird feeling when someone tells you they've been watching the work going on at the church and you had no idea! (Hmm, reminds me of some words in Hebrews 12:1) Allen, that Josh met at the Chamber of Commerce, joined us for quite a while, several members of another local church also stopped in. All in all, I'd say about 1/3 were Re:new-ers, 1/3 supporters, and 1/3 new friends. Very cool!

This past weekend we had the 'preview' service. This service was not only a good follow-up to our Thanksgiving event, but also a good chance to practice what our regular worship times will look and run when we launch in April. Praise the Lord, He brought together an amazing group of people. All together we had about 70 people join us for breakfast and then worship. In fact, the rule of thumb in church planting is that there should be about 1/3 of the seats empty during the service. At this rate, we need more chairs!!

Upcoming: We're having a carol-sing/worship time on December 18. (Selfishly, I just like hanging out in the building now!) Please be in prayer for the hearts of those we've met, those we've not yet met, and for the members of our launch team.