"Decentralized"

Yesterday I had a chance to watch a little "cable news". I've been studying the Book of Acts for the "Rock Band" series and I couldn't help but think about what the response of the church...actionchurch in particular...should be to the economic uncertainty we face as a nation.

I'm not sure what the "fix" is for our nations finances...besides actual responsibility which is way too "unpopular" to happen... I do know that the church needs to be able to react to the financial needs that will certainly "trickle down" to our community. The question is "how"? Typical church thinking is to start a "benevolence fund" where people give donations and then the money is given to people who need it... The problem is a "few" people have to decide if the needy person is actually "worthy" of receiving the rest of the churches money... I'm desperately trying not to be political here but that system is not working out too well for us as a nation...I'm not thinking it will work great for the church...

How could we help those around us in a "decentralized" fashion... Where people who have needs could let them be known in a "non-embarrassing" way. Where people who have the ability(whether it be extra stuff, skills, or cash) could help others in need. After Church Sunday, Jared and Melissa told me about a "need it- have it" type bulletin board that they saw another church and the idea makes a lot of sense! I'm thinking about ways to make that concept work at actionchurch...both on Sunday mornings, and on line. Any Thoughts?

Other related stuff: I'm thinking that it is no "accident" that we are moving to a larger place that dramatically cuts our operating budget...God has a great sense of timing. The first series (Starting Oct. 19th) at Club 19 will be called "In God we Trust" where we will discuss (in this time of uncertainty- financial, political-cultural) what we can actually "TRUST" God to do. We are going to open up the screens for "txt messaged" questions from the crowd again...and really try to discover what God said he would do... Stay tuned.

Kitchen Nightmares...

'Anybody elso out there watching Kitchen Nightmares? Even though each week the "plot" is highly predictable...I love watching the show.

If you've missed it, each week goes "a little something like this"... A failing restaurant invites Chef Gordon Ramsey to "makeover" their greasy spoon... Even though they are obviously failing they still think that they are "pretty much doing everything right". They blame the customers for not eating at their lousy restaurant. Enter Gordon Ramsey... Chef Ramsey tastes the food and rules it disgusting. He pokes around in their filthy kitchens and freezers and generally hurls (censored for tv) curses at them for being such "filthy pigs". The owners and staff resist at first but finally come to the realization that however painful the truth is...if they do not face it and accept Chef Ramsey's profanity laden help...they will fail. Humility ensues...changes are made...Kitchens and cupboards are opened and cleaned...the restaurant is "made over" and relaunched...in the end the grateful owners and chefs end up hugging Ramsey and thanking him for saving their restaurant...and their lives.

I think God works a lot like Chef Ramsey...minus the profanity?! We cry out to him from our filthy messed up lives...we resist his truth at first because it's painful...it's shocking when he reveals our "filthy kitchens" and our "disgusting freezers". It's much easier to blame others for our sins... In the end we make a choice. We chose to either send the "Almighty Chef" away...and continue to struggle on our own. Or, we invite him in...make the changes in our lives he suggests...allow him to help us clean up the filth we have accumulated in our lives. We end up thanking him for coming and saving us... That's what undeserved Grace is all about.

So that's what I "learned" from Kitchen Nightmares....that...and to NEVER eat in a restaurant again...

Sunday Recap: Rock Band pt. III

Today was week three of the Rock Band sermon series. We talked about things that bands (and churches) argue about...and the things that are not worth arguing about... Grace is a non-negotiable function of the church. It's messy...it's difficult...it causes arguments (as in Acts 15) but in the end we must extend undeserved grace to others...because it has been given to us. We didn't "accept Jesus"...he accepted us...when we did not deserve it!

The Highlights:

• Thanks to our opening (Rock band) act...Garrett did a great job "preparing the crowd" to experience the musical genius that is "Napalm"
• I "heart" the Gulls...I like their spirit...I like the way they love Jesus and don't take themselves too seriously...I love the Deftones cover (Minerva) they did at the end of service...What a great and original band! Thanks Guys.
• Ever heard the statement "you can't win em all"? Today absolutely proved that to be true! Some weeks are just going to be "Off"....
• I forgot to prepare 3 things...that I have Done EVERY week since we launched 7 months ago...like I said...sometimes things are just OFF!
• We have been having great attendance all through summer...Ironically on the first weekend of fall...after we announced that we are moving to a larger club...attendance was the lowest it has been since May...Wha?? (Come to think of it...this should probably be expected. Whenever we announced in the past that we were committed to doing something for the community that would be a real leap of faith financially...offerings would be immediately down. The good news is that we don't move forward based on "reports" (either attendance or offering)...we operate on faith... I can't wait to pack the new place out in October!)
• Today was a "tough" sermon to preach...I really actually struggled to get it all in the time allotted...and I am usually done "early". I am not a "long winded" dude...but there was so much more I would have liked to say!
• I am going to miss Fat Daddy's... but we spent some time after church over at Club 19 planning preparing for the Grand Opening over there on October 19...and it is going to ROCK...I am really starting to get stoked about the possibilities!
• A little over a month ago I preached about God saying to Gideon "Go in the Strength that you have"(even though he had no Idea that he already had everything he needed to rescue his nation)...that is exactly what is happening at actionchurch. We are seeing so many people step up to use their talents and skills to take our impact on York county to the next level...truly amazing! I had no idea how many talented and gifted folks we are blessed with.
• Even though we were low on attendance today it seemed like more people than ever stayed to help tear down...strange...but really appreciated!

Even after a tough week...I am really excited to see what God is up to at actionchurch...

"Limber"

So it sorta goes without saying that I am a big proponent (read "loud mouth") about Churches being willing to "stretch" and change their structures and programs in order to grow and continue to be relevant in our society... I must admit though, that it gets progressively harder as a church grows and gets "older". actionchurch is only 8 months old...but it is difficult already to make some of the changes necessary for the much needed move to Club 19.

Our new relationship with Club 19 means we have to leave behind a really good relationship we have built with the Fat Daddy's crew. Our growth and move means that many of our great volunteers will have to change jobs and responsibilities... Some people will love the new facility, some will miss the "old" one. Even at this early stage of church growth...change is a bit painful at times...

So what do we do to "avoid" the pain of change and stretching? If we want to continue to do the work that the church was designed to do...nothing! We simply must be willing to go through the "growing pains". My prayer for actionchurch is that we remain "limber". That we constantly "move", stretch, and change to continue to connect with people in our community who are far from God. That we never get "set in our ways". That we are always ready to "risk it all" for the next opportunity to serve our community... My prayer for actionchurch is... "Lord keep us limber..."

"Special Music"

I almost forgot to post this with all the "moving" stuff after Sunday. For those of you who didn't grow up in churches that had "special music" like this...enjoy. For those of you who did...this may cause nightmares. I especially love at the end where the person behind the camera seems to lose consciousness...

As I said Sunday: "Everyone is important- No one is (talented and gifted) the same."

Stuff we need for the move to Club 19:

Here's some Stuff/"skills" we will need to make the move to Club 19:

1. "Bob (or Betty) the Builder"We need someone(s) who is the "carpentry type" to help build our new check in center for actionkidz. We have the opportunity to have a "semi-permanent" set for actionkidz. (as long as it is on wheels we can leave it up at the club). I have a vision for a check in center for actionkidz that will allow us to safely check "kidz" in...cut down on noise between the services...and look really cool. I can help out painting but I will simply not have the time to build the whole thing between now and the 19th. We can supply materials, plans, etc... but we really need someone to head up the construction...and someone with a big truck or trailer to transport the sections. (We basically need to build a "Stage set" or "Facade" for check in) Got experience in carpentry or Theatre set design? ...you are needed!
2. Parking Crew We will need to direct cars at the new club through the main parking lot to the ones in the rear. Like to wear a cool orange Vest? We have the position for you!
3. Prayers! We need people to pray for wisdom and strength for the move. ...for the people who haven't even heard of actionchurch that will now have an opportunity to attend.
4. Clean up Crew There will be very little "set up" at "19". The club will be clean and ready to hang signs and sound check the bands on Sunday morning. (I know everyone who has been so faithful to clean and set up Fat Daddy's is crying right now...no more 8am on Sunday mornings....more like 9:30am! I do want to make sure we leave the club as clean as we found it so even though there will be less "tear down" we will need to sweep up before we leave.
5. "Advertisers" We need help in letting everyone possible know we are moving...Got a myspace or facebook? Would you like to post our moving "ad" and map? Tell your friends, spray paint it on city buses...oops actually don't spray paint it on anything...I just got carried away... but please tell everyone!
6. Donations... Here's the most amazing thing about this move...we started out in August DEAD BROKE! actionchurch paid five weeks of rent in August...and spent nearly $2000 giving stuff away at the fair. The amazing thing is that in spite of that, we have received many amazing gifts this month...and we have most of the funds needed to purchase equipment/signs for the move! On top of that...the owners of Club 19 are purchasing the large screen and projector we need (and the chairs and tables)...which saves us THOUSANDS of Dollars! (Thank you Club 19!) Thank you all for your generosity...we will still need extra donations to pay "first months rent" etc...(we pay weekly now) But the great news is that God is already providing through the generous people of actionchurch...so there will be no massive "fundraising thermometer" that you might expect to see on stage during a move such as this...I am blown away!

If you can help out in any of these areas, please let us know. info@actionchurch.com I'm sure other needs will come up and I will post them as they do.

On moving:

Back in July I wrote this. I had no idea how true these words were when I posted them:

"I'll close with two true-but completely contradictory statements.

• We are already planning, preparing, and praying about how to take actionchurch to the "next level" as we continue to grow.
• I have not a freakin' clue what exactly is going to happen...that's in God's hands. (Don't worry...this time last year I had no idea how or where to start a church (seriously)...and now we are trying to figure out how to best deal with actionchurch's growth.) God is Good!"

Since I wrote those words in July we have been working to free up more seats on Sunday Morning by first filling the bar area with as many seats as possible, (sorry for the crowded conditions lately) and then offering a second service...I was convinced that in spite of the difficulties and expense of having a second service on Sunday mornings at Fat Daddy's, it was the best option...the owners and sound man even generously offered to let us have the extra time for free...our main concerns were for the volunteers who set up and tear down actionchurch every week...and the bands that would have to agree to play twice on Sunday Mornings. actionkidz was also a difficulty... we struggle to find enough volunteers upstairs on Sunday Mornings for one service...let alone two. There were many questions and difficulties...but it seemed to be our only option, because as I said this Sunday, "actionchurch exists for the many people in York county who are not at this point even considering coming to church. The don't think they would be accepted, they don't think they would be interested...but if we could provide more seats and invite them...they just might change their mind about Jesus and the church".

It turns out that there was a better option. Even though I was certain that I had "explored every option" before launching actionchurch...I missed one...and I am convinced that God had it "waiting in the wings" for us when we outgrew Fat Daddy's Nightclub. (I actually met with one of the owners of Club 19 before we launched in February...I just didn't know who he was...) In short, Club 19 offers us a chance to seat roughly double the number of people we can currently handle on Sunday Mornings. Offers more tables that we can invite our friends to join us at for coffee, donuts, a band, and a preacher on Sunday morning. Offers our great volunteers a much needed break by taking most of the cleaning and set-up out of the equation. (I am really glad that Michele will no longer be cleaning nightclub restrooms on Sunday morning... talk about doing the "dirty work" of church planting...thank you!) The move will also offer us a chance to dramatically reduce our monthly expenses (unbelievable)...a chance to do even more in our community...a chance to become financially solvent...basically a chance to not only survive..but grow.

Will we have to deal with the "problem" of going to multiple services in the future? I certainly hope so...and soon. (It will be helpful; though, to have a larger volunteer base when we do.) Will we move again? I certainly hope so... in fact I hope in the future that we move back to Fat Daddy's as an additional "East Side" campus... Whatever happens in the future I am thankful that we have been given such a great opportunity as a "next step" for actionchurch. See ya at club 19 on the 19th!

Rock Band Week 2 pictures.

Thanks Ashley Z for the great Shots!

Sunday Recap: Rock Band part II

Today was part II of the "Rock Band" sermon series. We talked about how "everyone is important, no one is the same". In churches and rock bands...the only way to grow, is to let go. Let Go of responsibilities and things that others can do better. Find Good people and let them do their thing.

The Highlights:

• The BIG news first. Today I announced that starting October 19th we would move actionchurch to Club 19 (two blocks behind Laugermans Harley Davidson-1327 N. Duke St.) As much as we love and appreciate Fat Daddy's Nightclub, we have been running out of space on Sunday mornings for some time. Moving to Club 19 will give us roughly twice as many seats, cut our set up time in half, and believe it or not actually decrease our monthly expenses significantly...I'll blog more about the details this week but let it suffice to say that this is a deal that only God could have blessed us with...simply unbelievable.
• allstars onstage today...those guys are simply the best example of experience and talent in action...they simply rock.
• Opening act today (on Rock band) was "Jaws of Death" they got to experience what it really is to be an opening act...set up in front of the main band...five minutes of soundcheck..and you're on.
• I love our moving "ad" Bigger package...same great lack of Taste! Great Job Josiah...I only wish we had the cash to put it on a billboard.
• I'm sick and sleepy so that's gonna have to be it...I've had a killer sore throat all day...I'll be posting about the details of the move during the week.
• Thanks to all of you who make actionchurch possible...you guys are the best!

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday...

I don't often "hype" up what's happening Sunday on the Blog...but this Sunday is going to be ridiculous...

• The ac alstars are playing which is always cool, but their set includes Clapton, Elvis Costello, George Harrison...and their version of one of my favorite songs...
• We will have an "all new" opening act picked out by our own "Randy, Paula, and Simon" (Be there at 10:30 if you want a shot at opening for the allstars on Rock Band ... leather pants???...you're on!)
• I am really looking forward to talking about how "Everyone is important-No one is the Same" in week two of the Rock Band Series.
• I may (keyword "may") be able to finally announce the single biggest thing to happen in actionchurch history...

Edit: I WILL be making a "huge" announcement Sunday...the "biggest"!

I'm just sayin' -you may not want to miss this week...

Security...

Unless you've been vacationing on Mars you've probably heard on the news that it's been a really bad week for the US economy. I'm not sure anyone fully understands the fallout from the bank failures (and the company that insures them) now...but it probably won't be that pleasant for any of us.

Are you concerned about your retirement savings? ...your mortgage? ...your job? You are not alone. Millions of Americans share your concern. Being involved in a small business (how we pay the bills) and a non-profit church (really, really, non-profit ) I'm not blind to the fact that both sectors are pretty severely affected by a downturn in the economy... I don't think; however, that the creator is "surprised" by this situation. In fact (as we talked alot about in the "un" series) God often uses difficult circumstances to show his "undeniable" power. I'm certainly not looking forward to the hardship that a "rocky" economy brings...but I am looking forward to seeing how our God provides for my family...and our actionchurch family. That's "security" to me...


18 Day by day the Lord takes care of the innocent, and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever. 19 They will not be disgraced in hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough. Psalms 37:18-19

God our Father

Reagan (5) was singing along with Taylor Swift (her favorite!) in the back seat of the SUV a few nights ago. She didn't really know the words that well...and even though I'm a proud dad...she was pretty "off" key. You know what? It still sounded great to me. I kept thinking that there was nothing I would rather hear than my daughter sing.

I think God feels like that about each one of us. In fact, I think we get our love for our children from God! So sing it out! Talk to God. Even if you're "off key". Even if you feel like you have disappointed God. Even if you feel like he doesn't want to hear from you... He does. He's watching...and he would love to hear from you.

"Bar Band"

So for the next three weeks I'm comparing the Church to a band in the "Rock Band" Series...and it made me think. If actionchurch were a Rock Band, what kind of band would we be? The answer is... A "nineties" boy band, with matching outfits, "tight" harmonies, and choreographed dance moves! (Sorry just a "dream" of mine...I can't believe I said that out loud)

Actually, If actionchurch were a band, we would be...a Bar Band!

• a band of "ordinary guys"(and gals!) who practice after work and show up on the weekend to Rock!
• a band that expects to carry their own equipment...
• a band that is always looking to play bigger clubs...to attract a bigger following...but wouldn't think of "selling out" to get there...
• a band used to having the occasional insult (or bottle) flung their way...
• a band that realizes they "aren't stars"...
• a band that appreciates the fact that they get to do what they love, because of the people who come out each weekend to hear them...
• Finally... a band who's "sum is truly greater than it's parts"... a band that is surprises every one who "knows them" individually when they see them together under the lights. That's the power of a band...and even more so...The Church!

...and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. Mathew 16:18

Sunday "Rock band" Pics

Here's some pics from yesterday. Wanna see more? (Go there) Thanks Ashley Z for capturing actionchurch like no one else!

Sunday Recap: Rock Band pt1.

Week one of "Rock Band" the series...I love talking music...and I love talking about the potential of the church. This series is going to be a lot of fun! Today I talked about "our influences" from Acts Chapter 4. The First church was controversial, "famous", had sell out crowds without "selling out" like any great Rock Band or Church...turned their world upside down! My favorite verse from today was... Acts 4:13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Wow...I want people to say that about me someday.

The Highlights:

• Our opening act today was the "Human Hand Grenades"...The played Dani California by the Red Hot Chili peppers on Rock Band... It was really cool to see the game going on all the plasmas around the club. Josiah showed undying "commitment to his solo" when he left the stage to "rock his plastic axe". Ryan rocked the Drums and Garrett played a "custom" actionchurch Bass. (below) HHG forever!

Chambered on Stage as our "featured act" today. They rocked a great set (as always)! Started out with a Breaking Ben tune "Breath", followed by 3 days grace "Just like you". They did their original "Cut the noose" and ended up with Daughtry "Crashed". Dave is getting better and better at being the new "front man"...I have no idea how he can play guitar, scream, and sing seemingly all at the same time... always love to have Dave, Chris, and Jimmy in the house!

Set up was Hell with all the stuff coming back from the fair...we also had normal set up crew out traveling...but everyone still made it happen with time to spare! I really appreciate all the new and old folks on Tear down as well...Thank you all.

We hadn't had a chance to test our "Rock Band" set up live due to the craziness of the fair...I'm really impressed with the guys for making it happen...thanks to Mitch for loaning us the game...and Jake for being willing to run sound for any ridiculous thing we imagine.

Lots of new folks out today...it was awesome to see people we met at the York Fair come out and check actionchurch out...

Had several people remark today that we need more space...I know, I know...we are definitely working on it. We should be able to announce something within the week...Stay tuned.

The Fifes did a phenomenal job in actionkidz today...set the whole thing up as a carnival with games and prizes...cotton candy...I wanted to stay up there! Thanks!

I was drenched when I got off stage today...wow was it hot! I'm sure it was worse for the band(s) I just had to stand there and talk!

I have to go BACK to the fair...We tore down last night..but it seems that I will need to have a licensed electrician to get our extension cords unplugged from the meter...seriously.

I'm tired...I smell like sweat, stale beer, and smoke, and my head is pounding...Wow was it great to be in Church today! Thanks for all of you who help make it happen in every way.

Under the Jeep

I'm really glad Lance let us borrow his Jeep from Mount Zion Offroad for the fair. Not only did it attract a lot of attention (and NO we are not raffling it off) but it was great to make coffee under in the rain last night. Thanks to everyone that has donated their time, stuff, and cash to make this happen. Even though the weather has not been great and attendance is down...we have given away more coffee and balloons this year than last by a lot! Tonight is the last night we will be out and we will have given away "everything but the tent and the Jeep" by the end of the evening.

Not gonna happen...

When we fire up Sunday's service with an "opening act" playing rock band...they will NOT be playing this new "Christian knock-off product" (Link) I sincerely wish this was a joke...but I think it is real. I'm waiting to order 'til they have the hymn version that comes with the optional "praise piano"... Or, the "gospel back up singer" version with the optional "praise tambourine"! aaaarrrrhghgh...make it stop!

Rock Band starts Sunday!

A couple of months ago I wrote this (link). Those thoughts have grown into our next sermon series which I cannot wait to start Sunday. There is only one thing in this world more powerful, more culture changing, more controversial, more "loud and obnoxious", more "infectious", than what happens when a small group of musicians team up to "Start a Band, Change the World"...that one thing is the Church. The similarities are striking. When the church operates as cohesive unit, refuses to "sell out", and plays the clear and powerful "chords" that God intended- it is simply unstoppable... when it doesn't, it is more pathetic than a washed up Reo Speedwagen cover band.

The next four weeks are going to be a "medley" of Rock bands (chock full o' hair metal of course), "Rock Band" (the video game)...and a look at the first church from the Book of Acts...
If you bring your friends I promise not to wear Spandex!

More York Fair pics:

Wanna See more cool pics of York Fair 08 like this one by Ashley Z? (link)

Wait for the Question!

One of the very best parts of hanging out at the actionchurch tent at the fair is all the great questions we get from people interested in what we are "all about". I love how open and honest people are in their questions. But you know what?...Prior to working in the actionchurch tent I never had anyone come up to me and ask me a question about Jesus, religion, or the church I attended in all the years I have been to the York Fair. It just never happened!

The reason we get the privilege of answering peoples questions about God and faith is because we were willing to "risk" our time and money in renting a spot at the fair, stocking it with free Dunkin Donuts coffee and Balloons, spending hundreds of hours volunteering to serve (Thank you all!)...and basically being vulnerable and "dumb" enough to "put ourselves out there" in the community...

Contrast the above scenario with the gentleman who came by our tent this evening, delivered a short Bible quiz and lecture, and left me with a tract that I "should read". I am certain that he had the very best intentions...the information he provided was correct...but the reason that his tract ended up in my office trash can is quite simple... I never asked him a question!

I am convinced that the reason that so many view Christianity as an arrogant and pompous religion is because we are so concerned about having "all the answers" that we forget to care enough about people to earn their trust, be patient and wait for their questions... Answering questions people ask is viewed by them as a "service"...answering questions no one asked is viewed as an annoying "lecture"...I'm just sayin'

The power of incompetence...

I can't help but compare this years York Fair "coffee and balloon extravaganza" with last years event. The main difference this year is that there are so many people doing things better than I did last year. We have people who can make a better pot of coffee than me... (a couple of the batches I made last year were only semi-liquid...like the kind that you buy in a truck stop at 3am). Everyone is better at giving away balloons. (For some reason kids are generally frightened by me...go figure...just a long haired dude in a black t-shirt lunging at them with a balloon...) We have lots of people that are better at telling what actionchurch is all about than me. Incompetency has its rewards!

I think actionchurch is getting better as a whole because of my (self admitted) incompetence... Our visuals are so much better since Josiah took over. (Have you seen the new invite cards?...) Our pictures are much better since Ashley Z took over... Set up has never been better than the last few weeks since Bill, Dave, Garrett and crew completely raised the bar... The cool thing is that the more things the people of actionchurch "do better" than me...the more time and focus I will be able to put into the one area that I actually excel at...drinking massive amounts of Caffeine and dreaming up new "adventures" for us to embark on as a church... dreaming of things that seem impossible even in light of the great things we have already seen God do as a church. (Which of course will highlight some new area of incompetency and allow many other people to participate and make actionchurch a better place!)

Play the "incompetency home game":
What do you suck at...how could you replace those efforts with something you excel at?

(Since Michele reads this blog I must add that I have never used this "incompetency strategy" at home to "show" that I am incapable of loading a dishwasher, clothes dryer, or hitting the hamper with my socks....YMMV...may cause cranial bleeding. Performed on a closed track by proffessional drivers.)

Sunday Recap: Late night York Fair edition

I am so freakin' tired but I can't sleep...(maybe because I have "sampled" about 20 cups of coffee today...seriously) Here's your caffeine induced Sunday recap. Today was the last day of the "un"series. I talked about how God "raises the stakes" in our lives with seemingly insurmountable situations so that he can do "undeniably" great things. I love the story of Gideon(Judges 7)...I am so glad that even though it has more "action" than the best action movie made it is true...most of all I am glad to still serve the same God that showed up in such an "undeniable" way through the life of Gideon...I believe God is still doing "undeniable" things today...I think we are just beginning to see them in the things that are happening "to" and "through" the people of actionchurch!
The Highlights:

• Mitch Meador (formerly of the Recovery) on stage today. I'm not sure what "it" is exactly that makes a great vocalist (and Songwriter)...but I know "it" when I hear "it"...and Mitch has it. Awesome acoustic set today of U2's "Still haven't found what I'm looking for" Coldplay's "Warning Sign", Collective Soul's "The world I know" and an original (and I think the best song of the day) "Song about Hope". Mitch did a great job of making a last minute band cancellation a really good day.
• Everyone must have overslept today....seriously...during the first song the place was half empty...by the time I got up to preach we were full...it was really funny because I was thinking for a while that we actually grew during the summer and our first "back to school" weekend was down...
• I am so thankful for all the great set up and tear down help today...It was a really weird day because half of the stuff was in storage...and half of "church" was in the "fair bus"....It made things really much more difficult to set up and tear down but we still rocked through both in record time! Great Job everyone.
• I actually preached from a bar table on stage today...I felt a little "mega church"...but it filled out the stage some without having a band today...It was nice to have a place to set my bible...don't worry, no giant wooden pulpit is forthcoming.
• Garrett found my "Bible secret" and was laughing at me after the service...I have to print the verses I use in Giant Print and put them in my Bible...stage lights look cool...but they are impossible for a 40 yr old to read by...
• We previewed our next series "Rock Band" today...I think this is Josiah's best graphic art work yet...I dig working with him...somehow he takes my few scattered thoughts and captures them on screen better than I can even imagine...I'll promo some of it later in the week...
• Chambered will have an "opening act" next week... stay tuned for details.


• Had an awesome time at the York Fair tonight...I will forget someone if I "name" names...but we had such a great crew today...So much fun to hang out with actionchurch "peeps"!
• We seriously gave away about 500 balloons tonight (no exaggeration). I haven't seen ANYONE else giving away balloons but us...weird...but good for actionchurch. You could not walk anywhere tonight without seeing one of our "signature" black balloons!
• The most fun for me is hearing everyone "tell the story" of what actionchurch is about to people who ask...one of our biggest successes is that everyone "knows" what we are all about...."simple vision" rules!
• The second most fun thing is being able to give stuff away "no strings attached" (except for the balloons...and that's actually a ribbon...so like I said...no strings attached) It really freaks some folks out...they are just waiting for the "catch".
• I love that our church is known at the fair by the workers for our "free coffee Delivery Service" each evening. Michele came up with the idea last year of taking Dunkin Donuts coffee "to go" to the concession and attraction workers and it is absolutely the best thing we do at the fair.
• We found one (1) purple actionchurch balloon among the thousands of black ones...you would have thought we discovered the "great white buffalo"

York Fair Picture Link

Wanna see more actionchurch York Fair photo's? Here's the link to our "official photographer" Ashley Z's Flicker page of today: (Link) Thanks Ashley!

Callin' it for Rain.

We're not going to be opening the Free Coffee tent tonight at the fair...Our site is flooded and most of the stands and all the rides are closed. Stay Dry... The weather looks much better tomorrow so we will be heading back out to the fair after church tomorrow and for the rest of the week. (Through Saturday Night)

Friday night at the fair..

Came home last night tired, filthy, and smelling like funnel cakes...that's just a normal Friday night for me...but I think I developed a case of "balloon tie-er's" hand. Yesterday was definitely the "right" way to start off the York Fair.

Garrett and I hadn't even completely set up the tent when someone asked if we were a "Satan Church" because our tent was black...We got yelled at for riding on the running boards of Lance's "loaner Monster Jeep"...which by the way-everyone asks if we are "giving the Jeep away". I told a young "Bible Scholar" who wanted to argue, that he should NOT come to actionchurch, ... just another typical night at York Fair.

Thanks to all the actionchurch folks that helped out last night...not only do Michele and I appreciate the help (I actually got to take Reagan down to see the "bunnies, chickies, and duckies" because the tent was covered) but it makes the time so enjoyable because actionchurch folks are a lot of fun!


I love hangin' out with actionchurch folks and giving stuff away for free...No Strings Attached,
Stop by and see us...tip your waitress...we're here all week.

York Fair Volunteer "Conmandments"

(I'm not sure why I am writing this post in King James English...it just seems more "commandment-ey")

1. Thou Shalt enter through Gate number two off of Richland Ave...unless thou wish to wonder "40 days and 40 nights" in the wilderness of York Fair.

2. Thou Shalt find the actionchurch tent on Lottery lane...next to the Jeans Funnelcake stand, across from 105.7 the X...just up from the duckies and bunnies.

3. Thy actionchurch "free coffee tent" will begin setting up at 3:30 pm each day. We will be serving coffee from whenever the first pot is done till the stands start to close down around us (10ish) Come when you can...leave when you have too...thanks for whatever time you have to help out!

4. If thou dost need a ticket to get into the fair...let us know. (I don't want anyone not to be able to hang and help at the fair because they need a ticket...if you need one ask! Michele will have them at the donut table on Sunday...)

5. Thou shalt bring a folding chair if thou wouldst like to sit...

6. Water shall be provided...bring thy other beverages and haste to place them in the cooler.

7. Thou shalt come prepared to make and serve coffee...Make balloons...actually inflate and tie balloons...not sure that you could actually "make" a balloon at the fair...that would be really amazing.

8. If thou art in possession of a actionchurch T-shirt...wear it. If we still have your size one will be provided for you...(we only have a few left...so not a biggee if you don't have a tee...we just want to put as may actionchurch tees in the tent as possible.)

9. Thou shalt NOT accost anyone with an actionchurch invite...try to "talk people into" coming to church...etc. We are there to serve FREE Dunkin Donuts Coffee and give away free balloons. If people want to sign up for the newsletter or take an invite card they are welcome...but our main job is just to serve fair goers and carnival workers coffee...period. (We'll leave the "free gift" bait and switch to the guys who sell pots and pans and siding...so many people "expect" to be pressured and hassled by a church...that ain't us!)

10. Thou Shalt have a good time...it ain't rocket science...we actually get to work at a stand at one of the few places that has premium coffee at the fair... and we get to give it away (no strings attached) for free! How cool is that! We will have the "coolest" and only black balloons at the fair...and we get to give them away (thanks to the generous people of actionchurch) for free! Seriously come prepared to have a good (but tiring) time of serving our community...while getting to know other actionchurch folks better!

See ya at the fair! If you have any questions feel free to email me at info@actionchurch.com

Prayers needed...

I don't often do this but I know a lot of folks pray for actionchurch...so I thought I'd give you something specific to pray for today...

1. Brian Neal (scheduled to play on Sunday) had a family emergency and had to go out of state unexpectedly...pray for his family...and pray for me to find a replacement quickly (Got a Band that is ready to rock on Sunday?)
2. I have a meeting with the club owner today that is very important...we were packed on Labor day weekend with a lot of people traveling...we seriously need more space for the fall...exciting stuff is happening...none of it is "safe" or "routine". ..Pray for favor and wisdom me today please...
3. The Fair: Please pray for everyone that is giving their time and talent out at the Fair. Pray for people who "just happen to be looking" for a church like actionchurch to be drawn to the tent....If you wouldn't mind praying for Reagan, Michele, and myself during the next two weeks we would appreciate it....between the business, school for Reagan, all of the eleventy billion tasks Michele has, Sunday morning church...etc this is going to be a very exciting, busy, and tiring couple of weeks...please keep us in your prayers.

On Sunday I will be telling the final portion of the story of Gideon...how God "raises the odds" in our lives so that his presence and power is "undeniable"...I think we are kind of living that out this week...pray with me that God will work in an "undeniable" way.

What we offer...

I've had some questions and comments lately that have made me think about this question: "Since actionchurch is a "church for people who don't like church", and is focused on connecting with those who have "questions and conflicts" with the Creator...what does actionchurch have to offer "mature Christians"?

It's a good question...and I understand why people would ask it. The truth is actionchurch does not "offer" a lot of things that a potential member would expect to find in a church.

• We don't offer exclusive parking spots for members (this sign makes me want to "accidentally" run over it with my truck)
• ...we don't even offer "membership" for that matter.
• We don't offer the opportunity for insiders to vote on every move of the church on boards and committees. (At actionchurch everyone votes with their feet and their wallets...if people stop coming...or stop "voting" yes for actionchurch with their financial donations we simply cease to exist. That's how we "vote"!)
• We don't offer long periods of musical "worship" Our bands and the songs they perform are supposed to direct our attention toward the main thought of the day... (sometimes we even accomplish our goal...but on any given Sunday it's loud and "joyful")
• We don't offer Leadership positions based on resume or pedigree. (The Leaders of actionchurch are college students, unemployed, drive bread trucks, ride Harleys, are stay at home moms, computer "ninjas" etc... Some of our leaders have never before been involved or even regularly attended a church...they simply became Leaders by serving...kinda like Jesus and his disciples in the early church did...
• We don't offer Brass plaques on stuff for donations...(we just say thanks...and then usually find a way to give it away...)
• We don't offer "in depth Bible teaching" or "Deep Theological Sermons"...I just try to point people to a life of Following Jesus using the scriptures and the evidence of God in our culture and nature...(and no I have never been to seminary...as if you couldn't tell)
• We don't offer small groups (yet) or classes for "purpose driven cat lovers" (ever)

I'm sure I missed some things but the point is clear...actionchurch simply doesn't offer most of the things church goers in America expect. So what do we offer someone who is a already a "mature" follower of Jesus. One thing...One simple (but rare) thing. actionchurch offers an opportunity to be part of a movement that actually connects with and serves those who are far from God! An opportunity to find the "lost sheep" that Jesus said were worth leaving the "99 others" to search for... to actually put the teachings of Jesus into "action"...

If that is an opportunity you are interested in ...roll up your sleeves and join our little part of the revolution...