Happy Anniversary!
One year ago, The Table held its first worship gathering. God has done many great things since that time. A year ago our church did not have a name, a weekly rhythm, or a known presence in the neighborhood. That has all changed, because of His faithfulness.
In the last year God has been faithful in allowing us to live out our rhythms. The Table has lived out Hospitality, hosting and sponsoring numerous parties or events, all while making folks feel welcome in His name. We've lived out our Discipleship rhythm, praying and studying God's word together during all three of our weekly gatherings. And, The Table has blessed its neighbors in tangible ways during 8 “official” projects during our Blessing weekends, not to mention the countless “unofficial” blessings. We have many reasons to give God glory for what He has done. Thanks for your faithful and continued prayers and support of The Table!
We will be celebrating The Table's anniversary on June 26th, at Glen Echo Gardens. It will be a morning of sharing food, prayers of thanksgiving and for the future, and stories of His faithfulness so far. We’d love to celebrate with you! Stay tuned to our website for details of the day (www.thetablebellingham.org).
PRAYER FOR THE YEAR TO COME:
Please pray a prayer of thanksgiving for all God has done in first year of The Table. Pray that God would continue to allow us make more room in our lives for our neighbors and friends, in a display of the Hospitality of Jesus. Pray for The Table to grow in its width, and its depth in Jesus, in our rhythm of Discipleship. And, pray that we’ll continue to be a Blessing to our friends and neighbors in tangible ways.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
2.2011 prayer letter
Getting Organized
“Things are moving,” is on our lips as people ask how things are going. The Table has been busy establishing communications that most of us take for granted. For example, the leadership of The Table decided upon an official logo (above). We immediately put it to use by sponsoring a film series at The Firehouse Performing Arts Center. It was cool to attend a film this month and see The Table’s logo on the big screen as one of the sponsors for this budding neighborhood activity. This sponsorship has been a jumping off point for great spiritual conversations. Under the direction of John Barry, a leader at the church, The Table launched its website. This will serve as an exciting avenue of communication/promotion in our community and neighborhood. The Table is beginning to make itself know in the “hood.”
Relationships
Slick logos and websites are great, but it is relationships that make the real difference, and as relational hours “are clocked” greater depth of life can be shared. At The Table we have had the range of folks begin to find their home with us. Newcomers are being welcomed by name, while old friends are being encouraged in various life transitions. In each case, God has been challenging us to be bold in sharing the hope we have in Christ. In all our gatherings we find folks on different points of the journey. Agnostics, syncretistic “travelers,” new believers, and long-time Christians are all being drawn to the person and work of Jesus. It is in the safety of our community that we are all able to humbly live our rhythms of hospitality, discipleship, and blessing for His glory.
PRAYER FOR THE SEASON:
Thank you for your prayers and support of our budding church. This season you can be praying for continued boldness as we are beginning to be noticed in the neighborhood. Keep on praying for God to show us how we can be a tangible blessing to our neighbors. And, continue to pray for growth in width and depth in Jesus, as we persist in living our rhythms.
“Things are moving,” is on our lips as people ask how things are going. The Table has been busy establishing communications that most of us take for granted. For example, the leadership of The Table decided upon an official logo (above). We immediately put it to use by sponsoring a film series at The Firehouse Performing Arts Center. It was cool to attend a film this month and see The Table’s logo on the big screen as one of the sponsors for this budding neighborhood activity. This sponsorship has been a jumping off point for great spiritual conversations. Under the direction of John Barry, a leader at the church, The Table launched its website. This will serve as an exciting avenue of communication/promotion in our community and neighborhood. The Table is beginning to make itself know in the “hood.”
Relationships
Slick logos and websites are great, but it is relationships that make the real difference, and as relational hours “are clocked” greater depth of life can be shared. At The Table we have had the range of folks begin to find their home with us. Newcomers are being welcomed by name, while old friends are being encouraged in various life transitions. In each case, God has been challenging us to be bold in sharing the hope we have in Christ. In all our gatherings we find folks on different points of the journey. Agnostics, syncretistic “travelers,” new believers, and long-time Christians are all being drawn to the person and work of Jesus. It is in the safety of our community that we are all able to humbly live our rhythms of hospitality, discipleship, and blessing for His glory.
PRAYER FOR THE SEASON:
Thank you for your prayers and support of our budding church. This season you can be praying for continued boldness as we are beginning to be noticed in the neighborhood. Keep on praying for God to show us how we can be a tangible blessing to our neighbors. And, continue to pray for growth in width and depth in Jesus, as we persist in living our rhythms.
Friday, January 7, 2011
1.11 prayer
YEAR IN REVIEW:
At the beginning of every New Year our culture seems to makes lists to remember/review the year that has passed. It seems fitting to follow suit. Here is a list of reasons The Table is praising God for the work He did in 2010.
Bible Studies
Our small groups continue to be places where God invites folks to find connection, where they are prayed for, and can safely explore a deeper relationship with Christ. Starting this month, a family on our leadership team will start our 3rd Bible study. Praise Him for new beginnings!
Leadership
At the beginning of 2010 there was no leadership structure for the, then nameless, church. Now God has blessed us with a diverse group of "wise ones", who have a heart to see God move in mighty ways. God has used The Table’s leadership to initiate worship, decide on our name, incorporate the church, provide spiritual direction for the church, and much more.
Worship Gatherings
Starting this past summer, The Table began worshipping together, every other week in the Walters' living room. Now God has allowed The Table meet weekly at the Fairhaven Library. We have been able to see our new church family grow in these spaces.
Outreach
God has allowed a vision to become a reality. The Table has made outreach a regular rhythm of our lives, where we either have a party every quarter, and a service project one weekend a month. Praise Him for the opportunity to partner in His work of restoration!
PRAYER FOR THIS SEASON:
As we enter 2011, please be praying for God to show us how we can be a tangible blessing to our neighbors. Please pray for growth in width and depth in Jesus, as we continue to live our rhythms. Please pray for continued intimacy with God and each other in all of our gatherings (existing Bible studies, our new small group, worship gatherings, parties, and service projects).
At the beginning of every New Year our culture seems to makes lists to remember/review the year that has passed. It seems fitting to follow suit. Here is a list of reasons The Table is praising God for the work He did in 2010.
Bible Studies
Our small groups continue to be places where God invites folks to find connection, where they are prayed for, and can safely explore a deeper relationship with Christ. Starting this month, a family on our leadership team will start our 3rd Bible study. Praise Him for new beginnings!
Leadership
At the beginning of 2010 there was no leadership structure for the, then nameless, church. Now God has blessed us with a diverse group of "wise ones", who have a heart to see God move in mighty ways. God has used The Table’s leadership to initiate worship, decide on our name, incorporate the church, provide spiritual direction for the church, and much more.
Worship Gatherings
Starting this past summer, The Table began worshipping together, every other week in the Walters' living room. Now God has allowed The Table meet weekly at the Fairhaven Library. We have been able to see our new church family grow in these spaces.
Outreach
God has allowed a vision to become a reality. The Table has made outreach a regular rhythm of our lives, where we either have a party every quarter, and a service project one weekend a month. Praise Him for the opportunity to partner in His work of restoration!
PRAYER FOR THIS SEASON:
As we enter 2011, please be praying for God to show us how we can be a tangible blessing to our neighbors. Please pray for growth in width and depth in Jesus, as we continue to live our rhythms. Please pray for continued intimacy with God and each other in all of our gatherings (existing Bible studies, our new small group, worship gatherings, parties, and service projects).
Friday, November 26, 2010
11.10 prayer
Dreams
There are new (or almost here) babies at The Table. With new life, hopes and dreams begin to be verbalized. At The Table, we have hopes for how we will live out our rhythms this next season.
Hospitality Hopes
We have hopes that The Table's quarterly parties will build from our Fall party, where friends, neighbors, and church members intermingled. We hope that our intentional social times with coworkers and neighbors will increase, and continue to provide opportunities for us to share our faith and life.
Discipleship Hopes
The Table is searching for a new venue for our worship gathering. We hope this new space will be a catalyst for greater connection with God and each other. Many of our friends are exploring their relationship with Christ. We hope God will continue to open doors for faith conversations.
Blessing Hopes
Once a month The Table leaves "the building" of the church, and serves the neighborhood. We hope we can increase our partnership with community organizations, similar to our upcoming tree planting project with the neighborhood association (our first try got snowed out). We pray God will keep providing us with opportunities to bless individual households in tangible ways, whether it’s helping to build healthy relationships or aiding with housing.
God has blessed us greatly as we continue to move forward with the dreams He’s given us of faithfully living out our rhythms. Thanks for your prayers and support of The Table, and thanks for dreaming with us!
please pray with us for God to…
…continue to lead us as we dream and move
…bless our leadership community with wisdom, unity, and fun
…grant our worshiping community growth and encouragement in Christ
There are new (or almost here) babies at The Table. With new life, hopes and dreams begin to be verbalized. At The Table, we have hopes for how we will live out our rhythms this next season.
Hospitality Hopes
We have hopes that The Table's quarterly parties will build from our Fall party, where friends, neighbors, and church members intermingled. We hope that our intentional social times with coworkers and neighbors will increase, and continue to provide opportunities for us to share our faith and life.
Discipleship Hopes
The Table is searching for a new venue for our worship gathering. We hope this new space will be a catalyst for greater connection with God and each other. Many of our friends are exploring their relationship with Christ. We hope God will continue to open doors for faith conversations.
Blessing Hopes
Once a month The Table leaves "the building" of the church, and serves the neighborhood. We hope we can increase our partnership with community organizations, similar to our upcoming tree planting project with the neighborhood association (our first try got snowed out). We pray God will keep providing us with opportunities to bless individual households in tangible ways, whether it’s helping to build healthy relationships or aiding with housing.
God has blessed us greatly as we continue to move forward with the dreams He’s given us of faithfully living out our rhythms. Thanks for your prayers and support of The Table, and thanks for dreaming with us!
please pray with us for God to…
…continue to lead us as we dream and move
…bless our leadership community with wisdom, unity, and fun
…grant our worshiping community growth and encouragement in Christ
Thursday, September 16, 2010
prayer letter 9.2010
Rhythms:
With summer drawing to end, The Table is excited about the fall. After summer adventures and “staycations”, we are all ready for more regular rhythms. At The Table, we are thinking of how we can expand our existing rhythms this fall, as we seek to be the hands and words of Christ around us. Let us know if you would like to get involved with us this fall. These are exciting times; thank you for your prayers and support of The Table!
hospitality…
The leadership community of The Table decided that on “5-Sunday months” we will throw a party to meet and hangout with new friends. Be praying for our 1st party on Oct. 30th. This is one example of how we are seeking to “make room” in our lives for others. Our hope is that we will all intentionally live with extra margin in our schedules, so we can bless our families, friends, and neighbors with genuine relationship.
…discipleship…
Jesus said, “While you go, make disciples…” (Mt. 28:19), so that’s what we are striving to do. This fall you can be praying for this rhythm at The Table as it gets played out in our worship gatherings (most Sundays at 5:30pm), our “Bible Monday” study/prayer group (Mondays at 6:30pm), our “Manlunch” Bible study (Fridays at 12:30pm), in a possible new Bible study, and via personal mentoring/discipleship. I anticipate God to bless us richly in these gatherings.
…and blessing
Are we “be-ers” or “do-ers”? My hope is that we are both, known for being children of the King AND ambassadors of His Kingdom. This means we are called to bless our neighbors in tangible ways. You can be praying for The Table this fall as we participate with Mosaic in our shared “Beautify” or service Sundays (Oct. 24 & Nov. 14). We hope to have projects on these Sundays that will either bless a neighbor of The Table or someone/group on the south side of Bellingham. Also, please be praying for members of The Table as we begin the work of community organization in the Happy Valley neighborhood, meeting and organizing neighbors around common desires.
please pray with us for God to…
…continue to bring the isolated into community
…bless our leadership community with wisdom, unity, and fun
…grant our worshiping community growth and encouragement in Christ
With summer drawing to end, The Table is excited about the fall. After summer adventures and “staycations”, we are all ready for more regular rhythms. At The Table, we are thinking of how we can expand our existing rhythms this fall, as we seek to be the hands and words of Christ around us. Let us know if you would like to get involved with us this fall. These are exciting times; thank you for your prayers and support of The Table!
hospitality…
The leadership community of The Table decided that on “5-Sunday months” we will throw a party to meet and hangout with new friends. Be praying for our 1st party on Oct. 30th. This is one example of how we are seeking to “make room” in our lives for others. Our hope is that we will all intentionally live with extra margin in our schedules, so we can bless our families, friends, and neighbors with genuine relationship.
…discipleship…
Jesus said, “While you go, make disciples…” (Mt. 28:19), so that’s what we are striving to do. This fall you can be praying for this rhythm at The Table as it gets played out in our worship gatherings (most Sundays at 5:30pm), our “Bible Monday” study/prayer group (Mondays at 6:30pm), our “Manlunch” Bible study (Fridays at 12:30pm), in a possible new Bible study, and via personal mentoring/discipleship. I anticipate God to bless us richly in these gatherings.
…and blessing
Are we “be-ers” or “do-ers”? My hope is that we are both, known for being children of the King AND ambassadors of His Kingdom. This means we are called to bless our neighbors in tangible ways. You can be praying for The Table this fall as we participate with Mosaic in our shared “Beautify” or service Sundays (Oct. 24 & Nov. 14). We hope to have projects on these Sundays that will either bless a neighbor of The Table or someone/group on the south side of Bellingham. Also, please be praying for members of The Table as we begin the work of community organization in the Happy Valley neighborhood, meeting and organizing neighbors around common desires.
please pray with us for God to…
…continue to bring the isolated into community
…bless our leadership community with wisdom, unity, and fun
…grant our worshiping community growth and encouragement in Christ
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
june 2010 prayer letter
Whenever summer comes around, I always hear the call of the road. Kate and I love a good road trip, getting out "into the wide open." After miles of empty road, more road side signs begin to appear, informing you that a new town is nearby. I feel like this is where we are at, with regard to the church plant.
We began our journey, and set out with the excitement of the openness before us. Moving to Lynden in the fall of 2008, we began to pray where God was leading us to move, live, and begin the ministry He called us to. We traveled around the various towns of Whatcom County and felt God nudging us to Bellingham, specifically to the south side.
In the summer of 2009, we moved from Lynden to Bellingham, and began getting to know our neighbors. Living at Bellingham Cohousing allowed us to almost instantaneously get to know our immediate neighbors. Working at the Firehouse Cafe allowed me to build friendships with many others who live on the south side. Volunteering at the local elementary school and Whatcom Volunteer Center, allowed us to bless others in the neighborhood.
The road signs began to increase. God allowed us to start two Bible studies, where He continues to bring previously isolated individuals into a community of prayer, study, encouragement and fun. God has blessed these groups with an authenticity and depth that is evidence of His love among us.
Now a year after moving to Bellingham, the unmistakable signs along the road make it apparent that God is bringing us even closer to something new. This past month has been an exciting one. Several of us gathered for the first time as a leadership community for the church plant. We ate, shared our stories, and prayed together. This group will be the group that navigates the first miles of the church. As a group we set the date for the church's first worship gathering, happening June 27th at 5:30pm. We hope to worship together every other week during the summer. We hope that this gathering will be a place for our friends and neighbors to experience the love of God in our community.
The road trip continues. God has blessed us with safety, encouragement, and provision thus far, moving us to the neighborhood He wants us to serve. We anxiously await what He will do among us, as He builds His Kingdom in Bellingham. Thanks for your prayers and support along the way, for God's glory.
Please pray with us for God to...
-continue to build His church, bring the isolated into community
-bless our leadership community with wisdom, unity, and fun
-give our family and our church family a good summer of connection and fun
We began our journey, and set out with the excitement of the openness before us. Moving to Lynden in the fall of 2008, we began to pray where God was leading us to move, live, and begin the ministry He called us to. We traveled around the various towns of Whatcom County and felt God nudging us to Bellingham, specifically to the south side.
In the summer of 2009, we moved from Lynden to Bellingham, and began getting to know our neighbors. Living at Bellingham Cohousing allowed us to almost instantaneously get to know our immediate neighbors. Working at the Firehouse Cafe allowed me to build friendships with many others who live on the south side. Volunteering at the local elementary school and Whatcom Volunteer Center, allowed us to bless others in the neighborhood.
The road signs began to increase. God allowed us to start two Bible studies, where He continues to bring previously isolated individuals into a community of prayer, study, encouragement and fun. God has blessed these groups with an authenticity and depth that is evidence of His love among us.
Now a year after moving to Bellingham, the unmistakable signs along the road make it apparent that God is bringing us even closer to something new. This past month has been an exciting one. Several of us gathered for the first time as a leadership community for the church plant. We ate, shared our stories, and prayed together. This group will be the group that navigates the first miles of the church. As a group we set the date for the church's first worship gathering, happening June 27th at 5:30pm. We hope to worship together every other week during the summer. We hope that this gathering will be a place for our friends and neighbors to experience the love of God in our community.
The road trip continues. God has blessed us with safety, encouragement, and provision thus far, moving us to the neighborhood He wants us to serve. We anxiously await what He will do among us, as He builds His Kingdom in Bellingham. Thanks for your prayers and support along the way, for God's glory.
Please pray with us for God to...
-continue to build His church, bring the isolated into community
-bless our leadership community with wisdom, unity, and fun
-give our family and our church family a good summer of connection and fun
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
may prayer letter
Encouraged and excited. These are the two words I'm finding myself use to describe the ministry this Spring. With the summer season knocking on our door, we are growing in our existing groups, while ramping up for new and exciting things.
Growth in Our Groups:
In our existing groups we are having to find more chairs for folks to sit in. It has been a great blessing to see how God is using these growing circles of chairs. Recently I wrote a note to someone in our Monday Bible study, telling them how much I appreciate them. They wrote back, saying, "If I am all you say I am, I assure you that it is due to the safe and tender container you have provided for all of us to be our best and most tender selves. The Christ in all of us just shines through every person there... Your group gives me the awareness of how tender-
hearted I (and probably most people) can be when we feel safe and loved. Thank you so much for that." I share this not to boast in myself, but to boast of what our God is doing among us, for His glory.
Exciting Opportunities:
Presently I am having many conversations with folks who we believe God may be calling to join our launch team for the new church. Presently we have four households represented on this group, as I continue conversations with others in the next couple weeks. Once this group is solidified, we'll begin praying for what God has for us, and begin planning. My hope is that this group will begin worshipping every other week, starting this summer. We are excited for what God will continue to do.
please pray with us for…
Our God is generous. Thank you for your support of God's
ministry here in Bellingham. Please pray for His generosity
to be poured out in these areas:
• Gathering a core team. I am still in the middle of asking various folks we know to commit to leadership in the church plant, and hope to have a starting team by Summer.
• Summer experiments. In addition to our existing small groups, this summer we may experiment with a rhythm of worshiping together every other week, and partying together and blessing the neighborhood on the off weeks.
• Strategic planning w/ Mosaic. We are creatively considering different partnership options with Mosaic church.
Growth in Our Groups:
In our existing groups we are having to find more chairs for folks to sit in. It has been a great blessing to see how God is using these growing circles of chairs. Recently I wrote a note to someone in our Monday Bible study, telling them how much I appreciate them. They wrote back, saying, "If I am all you say I am, I assure you that it is due to the safe and tender container you have provided for all of us to be our best and most tender selves. The Christ in all of us just shines through every person there... Your group gives me the awareness of how tender-
hearted I (and probably most people) can be when we feel safe and loved. Thank you so much for that." I share this not to boast in myself, but to boast of what our God is doing among us, for His glory.
Exciting Opportunities:
Presently I am having many conversations with folks who we believe God may be calling to join our launch team for the new church. Presently we have four households represented on this group, as I continue conversations with others in the next couple weeks. Once this group is solidified, we'll begin praying for what God has for us, and begin planning. My hope is that this group will begin worshipping every other week, starting this summer. We are excited for what God will continue to do.
please pray with us for…
Our God is generous. Thank you for your support of God's
ministry here in Bellingham. Please pray for His generosity
to be poured out in these areas:
• Gathering a core team. I am still in the middle of asking various folks we know to commit to leadership in the church plant, and hope to have a starting team by Summer.
• Summer experiments. In addition to our existing small groups, this summer we may experiment with a rhythm of worshiping together every other week, and partying together and blessing the neighborhood on the off weeks.
• Strategic planning w/ Mosaic. We are creatively considering different partnership options with Mosaic church.
Friday, March 26, 2010
3.10 prayer letter
Our God is generous. I've been reflecting on His gracious provision lately. I am so grateful that He has blessed us so richly, and that we are able to see Christ move in our midst. Here’s some "praises" that we are celebrating in our different rhythms we practice.
Hospitality:
We are praising God that our home has become a hub. Neighbors and friends are always dropping in to hang out. I attribute this directly to God allowing us to reveal His desire to meet folks where they're at, and pursue authenticity. We are praising God that my part time work at the coffee shop is bearing fruit. In the last little while God has allowed me to encourage various customers in heartache and stress.
Discipleship:
We are praising God that both our Bible studies are growing. God has grown them numerically, relationally, in depth of knowledge of Christ. We are praising God that He has opened doors for us to directly share the good news of Jesus with searching folks who we know. It's cool.
Blessing:
We are praising God that the different groups we serve are being integrated in serving the Happy Valley neighborhood. We are praising God that I am now on the board of the neighborhood association. It will open relational doors that would otherwise be closed. We are praising God that my relationships at the neighborhood elementary school are deepening. God has allowed several significant spiritual conversations with teachers to occur.
please pray with us for…
Our God is generous. Thank you for your support of God's
ministry here in Bellingham. Please pray for His generosity
to be poured out in these areas:
1. Gathering a core team. I am in the middle of asking various folks we know to commit to leadership in the church plant, and hope to have a starting team by Summer.
2. Summer experiments. In addition to our existing small groups, this summer we may experiment with a rhythm of worshipping together every other week, and partying together and blessing the neighborhood on the off weeks.
3. Strategic planning w/ Mosaic. We are creatively considering different partnership options with Mosaic church.
Hospitality:
We are praising God that our home has become a hub. Neighbors and friends are always dropping in to hang out. I attribute this directly to God allowing us to reveal His desire to meet folks where they're at, and pursue authenticity. We are praising God that my part time work at the coffee shop is bearing fruit. In the last little while God has allowed me to encourage various customers in heartache and stress.
Discipleship:
We are praising God that both our Bible studies are growing. God has grown them numerically, relationally, in depth of knowledge of Christ. We are praising God that He has opened doors for us to directly share the good news of Jesus with searching folks who we know. It's cool.
Blessing:
We are praising God that the different groups we serve are being integrated in serving the Happy Valley neighborhood. We are praising God that I am now on the board of the neighborhood association. It will open relational doors that would otherwise be closed. We are praising God that my relationships at the neighborhood elementary school are deepening. God has allowed several significant spiritual conversations with teachers to occur.
please pray with us for…
Our God is generous. Thank you for your support of God's
ministry here in Bellingham. Please pray for His generosity
to be poured out in these areas:
1. Gathering a core team. I am in the middle of asking various folks we know to commit to leadership in the church plant, and hope to have a starting team by Summer.
2. Summer experiments. In addition to our existing small groups, this summer we may experiment with a rhythm of worshipping together every other week, and partying together and blessing the neighborhood on the off weeks.
3. Strategic planning w/ Mosaic. We are creatively considering different partnership options with Mosaic church.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
feb. prayer letter
Naming Rhythms:
As God seems to be gathering more and more people around us, I have continued to think about the vision for the new church. I love the thought of living out simple rhythms together, rhythms that define who we are in Christ, and who He is making us to be. I keep returning to the idea of being social, spiritual, and service-minded, but am searching for identifiers that capture the heart of the church more fully. Lately, I’ve been resonating with the words “hospitality”, “discipleship”, and “blessing” to capture those rhythms that God has laid on our hearts.
Hospitality:
Living the rhythm of hospitality means creating space in our lives and schedules for relationships to deepen. This is why I continue to work part time at the Firehouse Café. Yesterday, I shared the vision of the church with an interested customer, reconnected with friends I hadn’t seen, and talked theology with a regular. This is why we hosted a “Super Party” (a Super Bowl party minus football) for those not into the game. This is why we invite new and old friends to share a meal or hang out. Hospitality is rhythm of getting to know folks so you can conversations rooted in trust.
Discipleship:
The rhythm of discipleship is a communal effort to grow in our identity as children of God (Jn 1:12). This is why we gather together at our home on Mondays and for the Friday “Man Lunch”; both groups focus on learning about Christ by reading through the Word. This is why I mentor some guys at “The Fort” (a house of WWU men, committed to becoming men after God’s heart). This is why we are gathering folks around us (especially from the Mosaic) to journey with us, as we move toward our own worship time. Discipleship is a central rhythm for a community to grow together and in Christ.
Blessing:
Blessing others is an important rhythm in physically living out our collective faith. This is why we participate in Mosaic’s “Beautify” Sundays, where we as a church community focus on tangibly serving our neighbors in need. This is why I volunteer with the Happy Valley Neighborhood Association and at Happy Valley Elementary School, and why Kate and I volunteer at with the CHORE program (through the Whatcom Volunteer Center), only asking “How can we help?” God uses the rhythm of blessing to shalom to His people, and again builds a foundation of trust when putting in a good word for Jesus.
please pray with us for…
-God would be glorified in Bellingham
-God would gather His launch team for His new church
-God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans, as well a few families who would commit, for a season, to be a part of our launch team
-God to open doors for us to put in a good word for Jesus, in the relationships and activities we find ourselves in
As God seems to be gathering more and more people around us, I have continued to think about the vision for the new church. I love the thought of living out simple rhythms together, rhythms that define who we are in Christ, and who He is making us to be. I keep returning to the idea of being social, spiritual, and service-minded, but am searching for identifiers that capture the heart of the church more fully. Lately, I’ve been resonating with the words “hospitality”, “discipleship”, and “blessing” to capture those rhythms that God has laid on our hearts.
Hospitality:
Living the rhythm of hospitality means creating space in our lives and schedules for relationships to deepen. This is why I continue to work part time at the Firehouse Café. Yesterday, I shared the vision of the church with an interested customer, reconnected with friends I hadn’t seen, and talked theology with a regular. This is why we hosted a “Super Party” (a Super Bowl party minus football) for those not into the game. This is why we invite new and old friends to share a meal or hang out. Hospitality is rhythm of getting to know folks so you can conversations rooted in trust.
Discipleship:
The rhythm of discipleship is a communal effort to grow in our identity as children of God (Jn 1:12). This is why we gather together at our home on Mondays and for the Friday “Man Lunch”; both groups focus on learning about Christ by reading through the Word. This is why I mentor some guys at “The Fort” (a house of WWU men, committed to becoming men after God’s heart). This is why we are gathering folks around us (especially from the Mosaic) to journey with us, as we move toward our own worship time. Discipleship is a central rhythm for a community to grow together and in Christ.
Blessing:
Blessing others is an important rhythm in physically living out our collective faith. This is why we participate in Mosaic’s “Beautify” Sundays, where we as a church community focus on tangibly serving our neighbors in need. This is why I volunteer with the Happy Valley Neighborhood Association and at Happy Valley Elementary School, and why Kate and I volunteer at with the CHORE program (through the Whatcom Volunteer Center), only asking “How can we help?” God uses the rhythm of blessing to shalom to His people, and again builds a foundation of trust when putting in a good word for Jesus.
please pray with us for…
-God would be glorified in Bellingham
-God would gather His launch team for His new church
-God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans, as well a few families who would commit, for a season, to be a part of our launch team
-God to open doors for us to put in a good word for Jesus, in the relationships and activities we find ourselves in
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
dec. prayer letter
The Reason for the Season:
As Christmas fast approaches, I am reminded of the incarnation of Christ, how He came to us, to bless us. Now He sends all of us out to bless others with His good news. My prayer for you is that He would grant you a gracious heart this season, to bless those around you with the gift of encouragement. We are doing our best to do just that as we continue to live out our three rhythms.
Intentionally Social:
This fall as I’ve been trying get to know more folks in town, I've begun regularly gathering with different guys at a local pub. Through this regular time together significant relationships are being formed. In the same manner, social times at cohousing (where we live) have spurred on great friendships and many probing spiritual conversations. My prayer is that during this festive season, God will open relational doors and conversations that point to Him and His advent.
Spiritual Focus:
In our Monday night Bible, we continue to grow numerically, and in our connection with one another. The group grows bigger while getting relationally tighter. The Friday men's lunch is now studying its second Biblical book. My hope is that this group will continue to be a place of encouragement and comradery. Our partnership with Mosaic church is taking a new step, as they launch their 2nd gathering in January. This will help them alleviate their space issues and provide a "greenhouse" for the church plant's leadership. In all these things we are praying for God’s kingdom to come a fresh in Happy Valley and Bellingham.
Blessing the Hood:
One of the pillars of Happy Valley is the elementary school. I've begun volunteering in their resource room. My hope is that I can bless them, and that God will open new doors for future service. We continue to help serve a young woman in the hood with Cancer. Her condition is not getting better; please pray for her. In the New Year I am hoping to gather neighbors to conduct a survey to determine the assets/gifts possessed by folks in the neighborhood. This will allow us all to help serve the community in tangible ways that they will also take ownership of.
please pray with us for…
• God would be glorified in Bellingham
• God would call folks to join us in simply participating
in the different groups we have started & hope to start
• God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans, as well a few families who would commit, for a season, to be a part of our launch team
• God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
As Christmas fast approaches, I am reminded of the incarnation of Christ, how He came to us, to bless us. Now He sends all of us out to bless others with His good news. My prayer for you is that He would grant you a gracious heart this season, to bless those around you with the gift of encouragement. We are doing our best to do just that as we continue to live out our three rhythms.
Intentionally Social:
This fall as I’ve been trying get to know more folks in town, I've begun regularly gathering with different guys at a local pub. Through this regular time together significant relationships are being formed. In the same manner, social times at cohousing (where we live) have spurred on great friendships and many probing spiritual conversations. My prayer is that during this festive season, God will open relational doors and conversations that point to Him and His advent.
Spiritual Focus:
In our Monday night Bible, we continue to grow numerically, and in our connection with one another. The group grows bigger while getting relationally tighter. The Friday men's lunch is now studying its second Biblical book. My hope is that this group will continue to be a place of encouragement and comradery. Our partnership with Mosaic church is taking a new step, as they launch their 2nd gathering in January. This will help them alleviate their space issues and provide a "greenhouse" for the church plant's leadership. In all these things we are praying for God’s kingdom to come a fresh in Happy Valley and Bellingham.
Blessing the Hood:
One of the pillars of Happy Valley is the elementary school. I've begun volunteering in their resource room. My hope is that I can bless them, and that God will open new doors for future service. We continue to help serve a young woman in the hood with Cancer. Her condition is not getting better; please pray for her. In the New Year I am hoping to gather neighbors to conduct a survey to determine the assets/gifts possessed by folks in the neighborhood. This will allow us all to help serve the community in tangible ways that they will also take ownership of.
please pray with us for…
• God would be glorified in Bellingham
• God would call folks to join us in simply participating
in the different groups we have started & hope to start
• God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans, as well a few families who would commit, for a season, to be a part of our launch team
• God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
Thursday, October 1, 2009
october prayer
Same Rhythms New Season:
I cannot believe that a year ago Kate, Montana, and I moved to WA to begin the work of discerning the call to start a new church. At the end of this first year, we can confidently say that this calling has been confirmed. We strongly believe that God has called us to the task of creating an authentic faith community in Bellingham, focused on living socially, growing spiritually in Christ, and serving our neighborhood.
Social…
Socially, I am encouraged by the relationships that have already deepened as a result of our activity in the neighborhood. The Tuesday running club I have been attending has resulted in several spiritual conversations. In the same way, we continue to have more and more conversations with our immediate neighbors at Cohousing. The newest addition to our “social rhythm” is my part-time employment at the Fire House Cafe in Fairhaven. It is one of the best neighborhood “hubs” on the south side of Bellingham, and I am excited to see who God puts before us as I begin networking in this great spot (I have already met more folks than I could have guessed). In all these settings, and others, we are praying that God would deepen the trust we’ve developed w/ folks, so we can put in a good word for Him as we go.
…Spiritual…
Our Monday Bible study continues to grow, with 10 people having been through “the doors,” 7 of which are regulars at this point. This week I have started 2 new men’s groups (meeting Wednesday evenings and Friday lunches). Kate and I also hope to start a couple monthly groups: one that will focus on serving our neighborhood in practical ways, and a Film & Food group). Our partnership w/ Mosaic in Bellingham continues, and we pray that God will lay it on folks’ hearts from there, and from all these groups, to join us in forming our launch team.
…Service.
We continue to serve our neighbor w/ Cancer, doing simple household tasks, as she continues her treatments. I am hoping this fall to partner directly w/ the neighborhood association in serving our neighbors through the group mentioned above. My prayer is that the new church would be known around the neighborhood as one that cares and serve, by putting it’s faith into action.
please pray with us for…
-God would be glorified in Bellingham
-God would call folks to join us in simply participating in the different groups we have started & hope to start
-God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans, as well a few families who would commit, for a season, to be a part of our launch team
-God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
I cannot believe that a year ago Kate, Montana, and I moved to WA to begin the work of discerning the call to start a new church. At the end of this first year, we can confidently say that this calling has been confirmed. We strongly believe that God has called us to the task of creating an authentic faith community in Bellingham, focused on living socially, growing spiritually in Christ, and serving our neighborhood.
Social…
Socially, I am encouraged by the relationships that have already deepened as a result of our activity in the neighborhood. The Tuesday running club I have been attending has resulted in several spiritual conversations. In the same way, we continue to have more and more conversations with our immediate neighbors at Cohousing. The newest addition to our “social rhythm” is my part-time employment at the Fire House Cafe in Fairhaven. It is one of the best neighborhood “hubs” on the south side of Bellingham, and I am excited to see who God puts before us as I begin networking in this great spot (I have already met more folks than I could have guessed). In all these settings, and others, we are praying that God would deepen the trust we’ve developed w/ folks, so we can put in a good word for Him as we go.
…Spiritual…
Our Monday Bible study continues to grow, with 10 people having been through “the doors,” 7 of which are regulars at this point. This week I have started 2 new men’s groups (meeting Wednesday evenings and Friday lunches). Kate and I also hope to start a couple monthly groups: one that will focus on serving our neighborhood in practical ways, and a Film & Food group). Our partnership w/ Mosaic in Bellingham continues, and we pray that God will lay it on folks’ hearts from there, and from all these groups, to join us in forming our launch team.
…Service.
We continue to serve our neighbor w/ Cancer, doing simple household tasks, as she continues her treatments. I am hoping this fall to partner directly w/ the neighborhood association in serving our neighbors through the group mentioned above. My prayer is that the new church would be known around the neighborhood as one that cares and serve, by putting it’s faith into action.
please pray with us for…
-God would be glorified in Bellingham
-God would call folks to join us in simply participating in the different groups we have started & hope to start
-God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans, as well a few families who would commit, for a season, to be a part of our launch team
-God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
Monday, July 27, 2009
prayer letter - 8.09
Living the Rhythms in Summer:
It has been a warm summer so far! I’m surprised how hot I am as I write these words. I love seeing how all the gardens of veggies and flowers in my neighborhood have grown. As we continue to live out our life rhythms (living socially, living spiritually, living in service) in our neighborhood, it is encouraging to how relationships have begun to grow, as well. Thank you for your prayers and support for us and the ministry God has called us to do.
Social…
Because of the beautiful weather, people are outside. We’ve had spontaneous conversations as a result, many of which have been of a spiritual nature. I have been encouraged to meet new friends at coffee shops; one such friend accepted my invitation to come to our weekly Bible study. This caused me to pursue applying for a part time job at different coffee shops in the neighborhood, not for financial reasons but for the opportunity to easily meet lots of folks.
…Spiritual…
Our weekly Bible study is going great. Tonight will be our 5th time meeting together, with 5 regular attendees. Last week we had 7 folks come, and I only expect that we will continue to grow in number as we grow in our faith together. This summer I am trying to lay the relational foundations of the two new small groups. The first one I hope will meet once or so a month, for those from out of town or who cannot commit to more. It will have a focus on prayer and fellowship. The second group I am daydreaming about is a weekly men’s morning group. My prayer is that these groups will begin by the end of summer/beginning of Fall. If any or all of these are of interest to you let me know.
…Service.
Kate and I continue to volunteer, serving a young woman with Crohns and Cancer. Today, she is undergoing her latest round of chemotherapy. Also, I am exploring doing some “community organizing” work in the Fall. This work would allow me to bless my neighborhood, helping them with what they desire, while getting to know and building relationships with more neighbors.
please pray with us for…
• God would call folks to join us in simply participating
in the different groups we hope to start
• God would bless us w/with good relationships as we start and continue small groups
• God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans
• God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
It has been a warm summer so far! I’m surprised how hot I am as I write these words. I love seeing how all the gardens of veggies and flowers in my neighborhood have grown. As we continue to live out our life rhythms (living socially, living spiritually, living in service) in our neighborhood, it is encouraging to how relationships have begun to grow, as well. Thank you for your prayers and support for us and the ministry God has called us to do.
Social…
Because of the beautiful weather, people are outside. We’ve had spontaneous conversations as a result, many of which have been of a spiritual nature. I have been encouraged to meet new friends at coffee shops; one such friend accepted my invitation to come to our weekly Bible study. This caused me to pursue applying for a part time job at different coffee shops in the neighborhood, not for financial reasons but for the opportunity to easily meet lots of folks.
…Spiritual…
Our weekly Bible study is going great. Tonight will be our 5th time meeting together, with 5 regular attendees. Last week we had 7 folks come, and I only expect that we will continue to grow in number as we grow in our faith together. This summer I am trying to lay the relational foundations of the two new small groups. The first one I hope will meet once or so a month, for those from out of town or who cannot commit to more. It will have a focus on prayer and fellowship. The second group I am daydreaming about is a weekly men’s morning group. My prayer is that these groups will begin by the end of summer/beginning of Fall. If any or all of these are of interest to you let me know.
…Service.
Kate and I continue to volunteer, serving a young woman with Crohns and Cancer. Today, she is undergoing her latest round of chemotherapy. Also, I am exploring doing some “community organizing” work in the Fall. This work would allow me to bless my neighborhood, helping them with what they desire, while getting to know and building relationships with more neighbors.
please pray with us for…
• God would call folks to join us in simply participating
in the different groups we hope to start
• God would bless us w/with good relationships as we start and continue small groups
• God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans
• God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
prayer letter - 6.09
Rhythms of Life and Rhythms of Church:
Since moving to Bellingham, I have been drawn toward certain lifestyle rhythms. My hope is to grow socially, spiritually, and in service with others. My hope is that these will also be the rhythms of life the new church will grow towards as well. Check out my blog for regular updates on how we’re living out these rhythms. Thank you for your support of us and the beginnings of this ministry.
Social…
May was a cool month. It was our first full month in Bellingham. Socially, I was encouraged by a few different Cohousing neighbors when they separately shared that they like having us around and what we bring to the community. Also, I was able to meet a lot of other folks in the neighborhood, when I knocked on some doors and gave away 2-cent stamps (because of the postal increase). It was a simple way to meet people. In June, I hope to continue going to the running club, start a regular movie night in our home, and maybe have a Wii bowling tournament at Cohousing. These are easy ways to get to know folks.
…Spiritual…
Spiritually, I was encouraged by a few different things in May. First, I discovered a few folks who desire to be a part of a Bible read through group. I hope this weekly group will get started in June. Secondly, I am encouraged by a group of folks who came to our home to pray and daydream about church. This advisory group will hopefully meet every 6-weeks or so to think and pray about the vision of the church. And finally, I felt honored to be invited to a non-Christian “study” group by a neighbor. They discuss spirituality in a very broad sense, and I pray I can be a tactful voice of truth there.
…Service.
In May, Kate and I started to volunteer w/ the CHORE program in town. Every week we do household chores for a young woman who has Crohns and Cancer. Her family is unable to help her, and she doesn’t have many people around her. These weekly visits will continue. In June, I am hoping to partner with Mosaic in knocking out some major projects that would bless her and her home.
please pray with us for…
• God to gather folks to join us in leadership and in
simply participating in the different groups we hope
to start
• God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans
• God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
Since moving to Bellingham, I have been drawn toward certain lifestyle rhythms. My hope is to grow socially, spiritually, and in service with others. My hope is that these will also be the rhythms of life the new church will grow towards as well. Check out my blog for regular updates on how we’re living out these rhythms. Thank you for your support of us and the beginnings of this ministry.
Social…
May was a cool month. It was our first full month in Bellingham. Socially, I was encouraged by a few different Cohousing neighbors when they separately shared that they like having us around and what we bring to the community. Also, I was able to meet a lot of other folks in the neighborhood, when I knocked on some doors and gave away 2-cent stamps (because of the postal increase). It was a simple way to meet people. In June, I hope to continue going to the running club, start a regular movie night in our home, and maybe have a Wii bowling tournament at Cohousing. These are easy ways to get to know folks.
…Spiritual…
Spiritually, I was encouraged by a few different things in May. First, I discovered a few folks who desire to be a part of a Bible read through group. I hope this weekly group will get started in June. Secondly, I am encouraged by a group of folks who came to our home to pray and daydream about church. This advisory group will hopefully meet every 6-weeks or so to think and pray about the vision of the church. And finally, I felt honored to be invited to a non-Christian “study” group by a neighbor. They discuss spirituality in a very broad sense, and I pray I can be a tactful voice of truth there.
…Service.
In May, Kate and I started to volunteer w/ the CHORE program in town. Every week we do household chores for a young woman who has Crohns and Cancer. Her family is unable to help her, and she doesn’t have many people around her. These weekly visits will continue. In June, I am hoping to partner with Mosaic in knocking out some major projects that would bless her and her home.
please pray with us for…
• God to gather folks to join us in leadership and in
simply participating in the different groups we hope
to start
• God to raise up a strong ministry partner (“person of peace” Lk 10:1-7) to help us w/ weekly plans
• God to open doors, relationally, as we involve ourselves in activities in the neighborhood, allowing our lives to overlap w/ others
prayer letter - 5.09
April Recap:
The major highlight of the month was moving from Lynden to Bellingham. We felt so blessed by those who helped us load and unload our truck. We were welcomed warmly by our new neighbors at Bellingham Cohousing. They helped us unload, brought food, and have welcomed us with warm introductions. We’ve already participated in some Cohousing activities, including meals, a little yard work, and helping a neighbor babysit. We hope that our involvement in these regular activities will help us get to know our neighbors. I also attended my first neighborhood association meeting. It was great to hear some of the general concerns of the area. I’m expecting to get involved with this group as we begin to think about how we can serve Happy Valley. Much of the month was spent figuring out where things like our silverware will go in our new place, settling into our home. Our desire is that the Lord will use our home to bless others, as we hang out, study, and serve.
May Forecast:
As May begins, my priorities revolve around gathering folks together. We are hoping to solidify who will join us in leadership in these initial days of the plant. I am praying for leaders in the areas of finance /administration, community development/ outreach, worship /prayer, and families. Another priority will be to develop relationship in the neighborhood through running and book clubs, and neighborhood events. The 3rd priority is to perhaps start a small group of some kind (Bible study, prayer group, movie club, or something else). These small groups may be the primary way we’ll begin to “do” church together. Finally, the last priority this month is to discover how we will physically serve our neighbors (whether it is through volunteering, or beginning something new), and to start going. Please let me know how you would like to get involved.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would rise leaders w/ a shared vision of loving God as we love our neighborhood, including a “person of peace” (Lk 10:1-7)
• God would gather folks to join us in small group-type activities
• God would bless us as we get to know our new neighbors
Place
• God would give us a heart for, and eyes to see the needs in our new neighborhood
• God would help us find those places in the neighborhood, where our lives can overlap with those in the community
• God would open doors, relationally, as we begin involving ourselves in activities in the neighborhood this month (book and running clubs, neighborhood meals, and cohousing events)
The major highlight of the month was moving from Lynden to Bellingham. We felt so blessed by those who helped us load and unload our truck. We were welcomed warmly by our new neighbors at Bellingham Cohousing. They helped us unload, brought food, and have welcomed us with warm introductions. We’ve already participated in some Cohousing activities, including meals, a little yard work, and helping a neighbor babysit. We hope that our involvement in these regular activities will help us get to know our neighbors. I also attended my first neighborhood association meeting. It was great to hear some of the general concerns of the area. I’m expecting to get involved with this group as we begin to think about how we can serve Happy Valley. Much of the month was spent figuring out where things like our silverware will go in our new place, settling into our home. Our desire is that the Lord will use our home to bless others, as we hang out, study, and serve.
May Forecast:
As May begins, my priorities revolve around gathering folks together. We are hoping to solidify who will join us in leadership in these initial days of the plant. I am praying for leaders in the areas of finance /administration, community development/ outreach, worship /prayer, and families. Another priority will be to develop relationship in the neighborhood through running and book clubs, and neighborhood events. The 3rd priority is to perhaps start a small group of some kind (Bible study, prayer group, movie club, or something else). These small groups may be the primary way we’ll begin to “do” church together. Finally, the last priority this month is to discover how we will physically serve our neighbors (whether it is through volunteering, or beginning something new), and to start going. Please let me know how you would like to get involved.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would rise leaders w/ a shared vision of loving God as we love our neighborhood, including a “person of peace” (Lk 10:1-7)
• God would gather folks to join us in small group-type activities
• God would bless us as we get to know our new neighbors
Place
• God would give us a heart for, and eyes to see the needs in our new neighborhood
• God would help us find those places in the neighborhood, where our lives can overlap with those in the community
• God would open doors, relationally, as we begin involving ourselves in activities in the neighborhood this month (book and running clubs, neighborhood meals, and cohousing events)
prayer letter - 4.09
Happy Valley it is!
A lot has happened in the last month. We officially made the decision to focus our church planting efforts in the Happy Valley neighborhood of Bellingham. The Lord gave us - and those we are discerning with - a great peace about this area. Very soon after deciding on Happy Valley, an apartment for rent was brought to our attention. It is in the Bellingham Cohousing, an intentional community right in Happy Valley. Cohousing’s philosophy of living matches our lifestyle desires and values. It seemed like a great fit, so we signed the lease in the middle of March, and will move mid-April. Although we will were sad to leave Lynden, we are very excited about our new neighborhood, the opportunities to serve and minister, and our new home. The Lord seemed to open the door wide to this area, and we are ready to walk in faith into this new part of the journey. The discernment of location is over, so now we will focus on gathering folks.
April Forecast:
The first task this month will be to pack up and move to our new home. Settling into Cohousing will be an exciting adjustment. They do many things together, such as optional weekly meals, neighborhood projects, socials, etc. We’re stoked, and want to dive in. In April I hope to meet those in the greater neighborhood, participating in what is already happening as we get a sense for our new home and neighbors. This plays into our focus on relationships, discovering who will join us as we begin ministry in Happy Valley. We’ll be partnering primarily w/ Mosaic Church in Bellingham, while we get our bearings. That being said, we hope to remain connected w/ our supported churches throughout the county. We have reached an important milestone, and feel greatly blessed by everyone those who have supported us. Thank you for your continued blessing to us.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would keep us connected w/ our support base
• God would rise partners w/ a shared vision of loving God as we love our neighborhood, including a “person of peace” (Lk 10:1-7)
• God would bless us as we get to know our new neighbors
Place
• God would bless us w/ an smooth transition into Bellingham
• God would give us a heart for, and eyes to see the needs in our new neighborhood
• God would help us find those places in the neighborhood, where our lives can overlap with those in the community
• God would give us creativity as we discern how we can serve our new neighborhood
A lot has happened in the last month. We officially made the decision to focus our church planting efforts in the Happy Valley neighborhood of Bellingham. The Lord gave us - and those we are discerning with - a great peace about this area. Very soon after deciding on Happy Valley, an apartment for rent was brought to our attention. It is in the Bellingham Cohousing, an intentional community right in Happy Valley. Cohousing’s philosophy of living matches our lifestyle desires and values. It seemed like a great fit, so we signed the lease in the middle of March, and will move mid-April. Although we will were sad to leave Lynden, we are very excited about our new neighborhood, the opportunities to serve and minister, and our new home. The Lord seemed to open the door wide to this area, and we are ready to walk in faith into this new part of the journey. The discernment of location is over, so now we will focus on gathering folks.
April Forecast:
The first task this month will be to pack up and move to our new home. Settling into Cohousing will be an exciting adjustment. They do many things together, such as optional weekly meals, neighborhood projects, socials, etc. We’re stoked, and want to dive in. In April I hope to meet those in the greater neighborhood, participating in what is already happening as we get a sense for our new home and neighbors. This plays into our focus on relationships, discovering who will join us as we begin ministry in Happy Valley. We’ll be partnering primarily w/ Mosaic Church in Bellingham, while we get our bearings. That being said, we hope to remain connected w/ our supported churches throughout the county. We have reached an important milestone, and feel greatly blessed by everyone those who have supported us. Thank you for your continued blessing to us.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would keep us connected w/ our support base
• God would rise partners w/ a shared vision of loving God as we love our neighborhood, including a “person of peace” (Lk 10:1-7)
• God would bless us as we get to know our new neighbors
Place
• God would bless us w/ an smooth transition into Bellingham
• God would give us a heart for, and eyes to see the needs in our new neighborhood
• God would help us find those places in the neighborhood, where our lives can overlap with those in the community
• God would give us creativity as we discern how we can serve our new neighborhood
prayer letter - 3.09
Feb. Recap:
Our poor car is not used to daily commutes, but that’s what it did in February as we had lots of on-site prayer in Bellingham neighborhoods and meetings w/ leaders in Bellingham. The neighborhood that kept coming up in these conversations and prayers was Happy Valley (found between Fairhaven and I-5). It’s a diverse “hood” w/ college students to seniors, and varying economic situations. Unlike the other “hoods” looked at, I found myself day dreaming about life and ministry there. These daydreams include thinking about what local clubs we could join, places we where could live and easily serve our literal neighbors, and daydreams on how we could reach the neighborhood through service & relationships. With this narrowing down, our focus has become to pray for God to raise up folks to serve w/ us for a season in launching the church. We have faith that He will show us who He is raising up.
March Forecast:
In March we hope that God will confirm the call to the Happy Valley neighborhood, and that He will bring folks to us who will join us for a season in starting the church. My hope is to start strategizing how we can grow in the Lord together, while we discern the best way to serve the neighborhood. Part of this strategy is to begin looking for a place to live in the neighborhood, a place where we can host our neighbors and ministry events. Before the move happens, we hope to engage Bellingham as much as possible while still living in Lynden. That means joining clubs and developing deeper relationships w/ our partnerships in Bellingham, including Mosaic and others. We also hope to have a couple prayer times this month, in both Bellingham and Lynden, that will focus on community and Kingdom growth in the County. Stayed tuned to times, places, and an invitation to join us.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would connect us w/ our support base, and Bellingham leaders
• God would rise leaders of prayer/ hospitality, administration/finances, community development/outreach, and children/youth, who will serve w/ us in launching the church plant, including a “person of peace” (Lk 10:1-7)
• God would give us a heart for, and eyes to see our neighborhood
Place
• God would confirm the Happy Valley neighborhood as our place of focus
• God would open the door for a place to live in the neighborhood, that’s conducive to ministry
• God would help us find those places in the neighborhood, where our lives can overlap with those in the community
Our poor car is not used to daily commutes, but that’s what it did in February as we had lots of on-site prayer in Bellingham neighborhoods and meetings w/ leaders in Bellingham. The neighborhood that kept coming up in these conversations and prayers was Happy Valley (found between Fairhaven and I-5). It’s a diverse “hood” w/ college students to seniors, and varying economic situations. Unlike the other “hoods” looked at, I found myself day dreaming about life and ministry there. These daydreams include thinking about what local clubs we could join, places we where could live and easily serve our literal neighbors, and daydreams on how we could reach the neighborhood through service & relationships. With this narrowing down, our focus has become to pray for God to raise up folks to serve w/ us for a season in launching the church. We have faith that He will show us who He is raising up.
March Forecast:
In March we hope that God will confirm the call to the Happy Valley neighborhood, and that He will bring folks to us who will join us for a season in starting the church. My hope is to start strategizing how we can grow in the Lord together, while we discern the best way to serve the neighborhood. Part of this strategy is to begin looking for a place to live in the neighborhood, a place where we can host our neighbors and ministry events. Before the move happens, we hope to engage Bellingham as much as possible while still living in Lynden. That means joining clubs and developing deeper relationships w/ our partnerships in Bellingham, including Mosaic and others. We also hope to have a couple prayer times this month, in both Bellingham and Lynden, that will focus on community and Kingdom growth in the County. Stayed tuned to times, places, and an invitation to join us.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would connect us w/ our support base, and Bellingham leaders
• God would rise leaders of prayer/ hospitality, administration/finances, community development/outreach, and children/youth, who will serve w/ us in launching the church plant, including a “person of peace” (Lk 10:1-7)
• God would give us a heart for, and eyes to see our neighborhood
Place
• God would confirm the Happy Valley neighborhood as our place of focus
• God would open the door for a place to live in the neighborhood, that’s conducive to ministry
• God would help us find those places in the neighborhood, where our lives can overlap with those in the community
prayer letter - Feb. 2009
January Summary:
January started off as a weird month. After returning to WA from CO for Christmas, I turned around and returned again to CO to be with my family after my Grandma’s death. Although she was not young, her death made me think of the immediacy of ministry, that we are invited to sprint forward with the light of Christ. My deep desire is to see the hearts of those in darkness come into the light of Jesus. In practical terms, this means our first step is figuring out where and who God is calling us to in Bellingham. So, for the 2nd half of January we began our survey of Bellingham neighborhoods, covering Sehome, York, Lettered Street, South Hill, and Fairhaven. These first visits were soaked with prayer, neighborhoods demographics, and a keen eye for gathering points of residents. These and other neighborhoods in central and south Bellingham are the initial areas where we feel God is leading us. We pray He’ll continue to direct us.
February Forecast:
In the first part of February we hope to finish initially looking at the “hoods” of central and south Bellingham. After this we’ll spend more time in those neighborhoods that God is tugging at our hearts to revisit, hanging out in those community gathering points we observed (coffee shops, parks, etc.). I also am planning on beginning to meet with church, ministry, and community leaders in Bellingham to gain a local perspective in discerning. We hope to have another prayer gathering at the end of February or beginning of March. Our focus in all of these discernment times is to determine “people” and “place,” to listen to who God wants us to serve, who will serve with us, and which neighborhood could be best facilitate relationship building. Please let us know if this strikes a holy chord with you. We appreciate your continued prayers and support.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would allow us to connect with our support base of churches and individuals, and w/ Bellingham community and ministry leaders
• God would rise up a leadership team, passionate to advance God’s kingdom, including that local “person of peace” (Luke 10:1-7)
• God would give a heart for, and eyes to see our focus group, who are on the fringe of faith
Place
• God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood in Bellingham
• God would open doors to get to know folks in the city
• God would help us find those places of community connections (running clubs, neighborhood associations, etc.), where our lives can overlap with those in the community
January started off as a weird month. After returning to WA from CO for Christmas, I turned around and returned again to CO to be with my family after my Grandma’s death. Although she was not young, her death made me think of the immediacy of ministry, that we are invited to sprint forward with the light of Christ. My deep desire is to see the hearts of those in darkness come into the light of Jesus. In practical terms, this means our first step is figuring out where and who God is calling us to in Bellingham. So, for the 2nd half of January we began our survey of Bellingham neighborhoods, covering Sehome, York, Lettered Street, South Hill, and Fairhaven. These first visits were soaked with prayer, neighborhoods demographics, and a keen eye for gathering points of residents. These and other neighborhoods in central and south Bellingham are the initial areas where we feel God is leading us. We pray He’ll continue to direct us.
February Forecast:
In the first part of February we hope to finish initially looking at the “hoods” of central and south Bellingham. After this we’ll spend more time in those neighborhoods that God is tugging at our hearts to revisit, hanging out in those community gathering points we observed (coffee shops, parks, etc.). I also am planning on beginning to meet with church, ministry, and community leaders in Bellingham to gain a local perspective in discerning. We hope to have another prayer gathering at the end of February or beginning of March. Our focus in all of these discernment times is to determine “people” and “place,” to listen to who God wants us to serve, who will serve with us, and which neighborhood could be best facilitate relationship building. Please let us know if this strikes a holy chord with you. We appreciate your continued prayers and support.
please pray with us for…
People
• God would allow us to connect with our support base of churches and individuals, and w/ Bellingham community and ministry leaders
• God would rise up a leadership team, passionate to advance God’s kingdom, including that local “person of peace” (Luke 10:1-7)
• God would give a heart for, and eyes to see our focus group, who are on the fringe of faith
Place
• God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood in Bellingham
• God would open doors to get to know folks in the city
• God would help us find those places of community connections (running clubs, neighborhood associations, etc.), where our lives can overlap with those in the community
prayer letter: Jan. 2009
December Summary:
December was another month of discernment of where God is leading us to plant a church. One highlight of the month included my trip to Seattle to reap wisdom from fellow planters. Another highlight was organizing a great prayer gathering at Jerry and Julie’s home. It was awesome to gather to pray for one another, our churches, and the church plant. We’re planning on having another prayer gathering in February, so let me know and stayed tuned to the blog if you are interested. Kate, Montana, and I also went back to Colorado for Christmas with family. It was great to go, because we figure in the years to come I’ll be busy on that day. When we returned to WA our initial discernment was finished. Along with those close around us, we now feel that God is leading us to start the church in Bellingham. Please continue to pray for us as we explore this leading further.
January Forecast:
For the remainder of January, I plan to keep connecting with our network of supporting churches and individuals. My primary task will be to begin discerning where in the city we should focus our efforts, and who in the city we feel called to both partner with and serve. I hope to spend much time in Bellingham coffee shops, parks, and other places getting to know the different neighborhoods and their residents. I also hope to sit down with Bellingham ministry leaders to discern with them on how we can creatively reach the city for Christ. I invite you to pray with us this month for continued Kingdom growth in Whatcom County. If prayer and community is our foundation, let’s do it together! My prayer for you is from Ephesians, that God would “give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
Please Pray:
1. God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood in Bellingham
-God would open doors to get to know folks in the city
-God would rise up a “person of peace” (Luke 10:1-7), who would be a local ally
2. God would rise up a leadership team, passionate to advance God’s kingdom
-God would call folks to join our efforts, for the beginning season
-God would raise those to fill various roles
3. God would help us discern how we can serve the city
-God would give a heart for, and eyes to see those on the fringe of faith
-God would show us the best church model that would facilitate growth and service
December was another month of discernment of where God is leading us to plant a church. One highlight of the month included my trip to Seattle to reap wisdom from fellow planters. Another highlight was organizing a great prayer gathering at Jerry and Julie’s home. It was awesome to gather to pray for one another, our churches, and the church plant. We’re planning on having another prayer gathering in February, so let me know and stayed tuned to the blog if you are interested. Kate, Montana, and I also went back to Colorado for Christmas with family. It was great to go, because we figure in the years to come I’ll be busy on that day. When we returned to WA our initial discernment was finished. Along with those close around us, we now feel that God is leading us to start the church in Bellingham. Please continue to pray for us as we explore this leading further.
January Forecast:
For the remainder of January, I plan to keep connecting with our network of supporting churches and individuals. My primary task will be to begin discerning where in the city we should focus our efforts, and who in the city we feel called to both partner with and serve. I hope to spend much time in Bellingham coffee shops, parks, and other places getting to know the different neighborhoods and their residents. I also hope to sit down with Bellingham ministry leaders to discern with them on how we can creatively reach the city for Christ. I invite you to pray with us this month for continued Kingdom growth in Whatcom County. If prayer and community is our foundation, let’s do it together! My prayer for you is from Ephesians, that God would “give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
Please Pray:
1. God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood in Bellingham
-God would open doors to get to know folks in the city
-God would rise up a “person of peace” (Luke 10:1-7), who would be a local ally
2. God would rise up a leadership team, passionate to advance God’s kingdom
-God would call folks to join our efforts, for the beginning season
-God would raise those to fill various roles
3. God would help us discern how we can serve the city
-God would give a heart for, and eyes to see those on the fringe of faith
-God would show us the best church model that would facilitate growth and service
prayer letter - dec. 2008
November Summary:
This was our first full month of discernment. It was great to be able to connect with many in our network of support, through serving, worshipping, and hanging out. Many of them helped as I conducted on-site prayer and research in Lynden, Everson/Nooksack, Ferndale, and Bellingham. My conversations with residents, law enforcement, church members, and students have been helpful in understanding the personalities of each community. I have been reminded repeatedly of the importance of committing this process to God. The task of starting a new church and reaching those on the fringe of faith is a large one, but we serve a great God who is with us. Thanks for your partnership in this ministry. Your daily prayers on our behalf are coveted; and please let us know how we can pray for you!
December Forecast:
For December, I intend to continue to connect with our network of support, through hanging out, worship, and service. I hope to begin networking with CRC church planters in Seattle by attending their cluster meeting, and network with a Bellingham church planting network. In the spirit of Proverbs 15:22, I’d like to invite you to join us in dedicating a few days in the third week of December to intentional prayer and fasting for the ministry. I am planning on creating a group soon for this purpose, so let me know if you would like to “join up.” We are planning to return to Colorado for Christmas, where, along with visiting, I hope to use the time away to pray purposely in discernment. My prayer is that we will have a firm idea of where God, and who God is calling us to serve by January 1. At that point we will begin planning.
Please Pray:
1. God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood by Jan. 1
-Presently, we’re leaning toward Bellingham, but we are still discerning
-And, that God would rise up a “person of peace” (Luke 10:1-7) in the neighborhood, who would be a local ally
2. God would rise up a leadership team, passionate to advance God’s kingdom
-Specifically, that God would raise those to fill the roles of Administration/Finances, Children/Youth ministry, Community Development/Evangelism, Communications/ Marketing, and Administration/Secretary.
3. God would help us discern an appropriate church model planting
-Specifically, whether a house church model focused on the 4 elements seen in Acts 2:42 is best, and if not that what model would serve our setting
This was our first full month of discernment. It was great to be able to connect with many in our network of support, through serving, worshipping, and hanging out. Many of them helped as I conducted on-site prayer and research in Lynden, Everson/Nooksack, Ferndale, and Bellingham. My conversations with residents, law enforcement, church members, and students have been helpful in understanding the personalities of each community. I have been reminded repeatedly of the importance of committing this process to God. The task of starting a new church and reaching those on the fringe of faith is a large one, but we serve a great God who is with us. Thanks for your partnership in this ministry. Your daily prayers on our behalf are coveted; and please let us know how we can pray for you!
December Forecast:
For December, I intend to continue to connect with our network of support, through hanging out, worship, and service. I hope to begin networking with CRC church planters in Seattle by attending their cluster meeting, and network with a Bellingham church planting network. In the spirit of Proverbs 15:22, I’d like to invite you to join us in dedicating a few days in the third week of December to intentional prayer and fasting for the ministry. I am planning on creating a group soon for this purpose, so let me know if you would like to “join up.” We are planning to return to Colorado for Christmas, where, along with visiting, I hope to use the time away to pray purposely in discernment. My prayer is that we will have a firm idea of where God, and who God is calling us to serve by January 1. At that point we will begin planning.
Please Pray:
1. God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood by Jan. 1
-Presently, we’re leaning toward Bellingham, but we are still discerning
-And, that God would rise up a “person of peace” (Luke 10:1-7) in the neighborhood, who would be a local ally
2. God would rise up a leadership team, passionate to advance God’s kingdom
-Specifically, that God would raise those to fill the roles of Administration/Finances, Children/Youth ministry, Community Development/Evangelism, Communications/ Marketing, and Administration/Secretary.
3. God would help us discern an appropriate church model planting
-Specifically, whether a house church model focused on the 4 elements seen in Acts 2:42 is best, and if not that what model would serve our setting
prayer letter - nov. 2008
Aaron Walters – November 2008 Prayer Report
October Goals:
-1-To begin networking with our support base of churches and individuals in Whatcom County
-2-To pray for and investigate the potential communities and neighborhoods for the new church plant
October Summary:
My activities and time for the first half of the month was focused on two things: preparing for my classical examination (which I passed by God’s grace), and setting our home up for life. After classis I set out to accomplish my two goals (stated above). I believe I got a good start at beginning my task of networking, by participating in the following events: the weekly Lynden pastors breakfasts, council meetings at Bethel CRC and 1st CRC, Whatcom County Cluster meeting, and Classis PNW and BCSE, as well meeting with local youth pastors, local pastors, and potential team members. I was able to attend and/or preach in worship services at Bethel CRC, Mountain View CRC, 3rd CRC, and the Reformation Day service at Sonlight CRC. In addition to these activities, I was able to address my second goal by conducting initial/general demographic studies of Birch Bay, Blaine, Everson/Nooksack, Fairhaven, Ferndale, Geneva, Lynden, and Sudden Valley, as well as conducting on-site data collecting/prayer/observations in each of these neighborhoods/communities. My task was to get a general “feel” and first look at these sites.
November Forecast:
For November, I intend to retain the same goals as October. Although my second goal will focus primarily on learning what the physical and ministry needs are of these sites. I hope to accomplish this through more specific demographic study, on site conversations with pastors, leaders, and residents. At this juncture, I am planning attending the Lynden CRC’s administrator meeting, council meetings at Bethel CRC and Hope in Christ, preaching at 3rd CRC, and my installation service on November 23rd.
Prayer Requests:
-God’s wisdom and protection over our lives as we discern the future
-God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood by Christmas
-God would rise up a leadership team w/ the passion to advance God’s kingdom
-God would use established churches and this church plant to make disciples in Whatcom County
I am blessed by your support at this time, and pray God’s grace for you and your church’s ministry. Thanks you for your partnership.
October Goals:
-1-To begin networking with our support base of churches and individuals in Whatcom County
-2-To pray for and investigate the potential communities and neighborhoods for the new church plant
October Summary:
My activities and time for the first half of the month was focused on two things: preparing for my classical examination (which I passed by God’s grace), and setting our home up for life. After classis I set out to accomplish my two goals (stated above). I believe I got a good start at beginning my task of networking, by participating in the following events: the weekly Lynden pastors breakfasts, council meetings at Bethel CRC and 1st CRC, Whatcom County Cluster meeting, and Classis PNW and BCSE, as well meeting with local youth pastors, local pastors, and potential team members. I was able to attend and/or preach in worship services at Bethel CRC, Mountain View CRC, 3rd CRC, and the Reformation Day service at Sonlight CRC. In addition to these activities, I was able to address my second goal by conducting initial/general demographic studies of Birch Bay, Blaine, Everson/Nooksack, Fairhaven, Ferndale, Geneva, Lynden, and Sudden Valley, as well as conducting on-site data collecting/prayer/observations in each of these neighborhoods/communities. My task was to get a general “feel” and first look at these sites.
November Forecast:
For November, I intend to retain the same goals as October. Although my second goal will focus primarily on learning what the physical and ministry needs are of these sites. I hope to accomplish this through more specific demographic study, on site conversations with pastors, leaders, and residents. At this juncture, I am planning attending the Lynden CRC’s administrator meeting, council meetings at Bethel CRC and Hope in Christ, preaching at 3rd CRC, and my installation service on November 23rd.
Prayer Requests:
-God’s wisdom and protection over our lives as we discern the future
-God would call us to serve a specific neighborhood by Christmas
-God would rise up a leadership team w/ the passion to advance God’s kingdom
-God would use established churches and this church plant to make disciples in Whatcom County
I am blessed by your support at this time, and pray God’s grace for you and your church’s ministry. Thanks you for your partnership.
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