Transition and the Crease
The term "Church Planting" may actually be code for transition. In these early stages it seems every plan is a step between two phases of transition. It sounds crazy, but it's true, every 4-6 weeks we enter into a new phase of the Church Planting process. Some of these transitions are expected and some are surprises. Living in this constant shifting environment is exciting and humbling.
As you might have guessed, we anticipate a new season of transition to begin. By Faith our core group will continue the preparation for corporate worship in a new location. Identifying this location is a bit tricky because the culture is developing (transitioning) so rapidly.
For the past 5 weeks our core group has been gathering in our home on a weekly basis. Currently, we are discussing the culture shock of Salvation and exploring its role in a world where cultures (races) collide daily. The Crabapple Region (Roswell, Woodstock, Alpharetta and Milton) are truly a melting pot. One visit to Costco feels more like New Delhi, Istanbul, or Frankfurt. In fact, you're more likely to meet someone from outside the Southeast than a local. The world has truly come to the Crabapple region!
Our core team is amazing! We are grateful for each person. These beautiful Saints have set their eyes on Christ with a passion for his Kingdom to flourish in the region. Which reminds me. We have refined our mission statement. Here it is: To be a Gospel centered, outward faced church. With a passion to see Christ Kingdom flourish in the city and surrounding region.
As you might have guessed, we anticipate a new season of transition to begin. By Faith our core group will continue the preparation for corporate worship in a new location. Identifying this location is a bit tricky because the culture is developing (transitioning) so rapidly.
For the past 5 weeks our core group has been gathering in our home on a weekly basis. Currently, we are discussing the culture shock of Salvation and exploring its role in a world where cultures (races) collide daily. The Crabapple Region (Roswell, Woodstock, Alpharetta and Milton) are truly a melting pot. One visit to Costco feels more like New Delhi, Istanbul, or Frankfurt. In fact, you're more likely to meet someone from outside the Southeast than a local. The world has truly come to the Crabapple region!
Our core team is amazing! We are grateful for each person. These beautiful Saints have set their eyes on Christ with a passion for his Kingdom to flourish in the region. Which reminds me. We have refined our mission statement. Here it is: To be a Gospel centered, outward faced church. With a passion to see Christ Kingdom flourish in the city and surrounding region.
The Crease
If you are confused by "the crease" welcome to the club. 4 weeks ago I had never heard of it. But long story short, as the official head coach of Roswell U9 Lacrosse I can tell you that the crease is similar to Soccer's "box" except it is round and much smaller. Coaching lacrosse has become a metaphor for our calling here. We meet both fellow believers as well as people who have never heard of prayer or the scriptures. One of the best times during my week is the friendships being built as we discuss the scriptures in these context.
Here are a few items we need prayer for:
Continued growth (in depth and number) for our core group
- These saints are amazing, and sacrifice a great deal to join this work
- The ladies of the group to find time to build deeper relationships with each other
Pumpkin Pitt Party on October 16th (6pm eastern)
- Pray for new relationships to form and deepen
- Pray for unity as we labor
Pray for a new gathering space.
- Pray for wisdom as we balance the merits of cost and location
Praise!
- We are experiencing some internal giving. For those who are supporting our endeavor you will recall that our budget is built on three year giving. By Faith our internal giving will increase and match our external giving. This is an amazing picture of the apostle Paul's words from Romans 10 "And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent?"
Thank You Donors! We are so grateful for your support! Any Gift is helpful. Tax deductible donations can be made through our online portal here. 100% of donations go to the work. Or you can email Brian here with questions.
Some of you have experienced difficulty in renewing your support. MNA has been migrating over to a new reporting system. This has presented some temporary challenges. Thank you for your patience! The fastest and easiest way to resolve any funding issues is to contact Karen Fowler at 678-825-1223 or email her at kfowler@pcanet.org
