Three Years

This week marks three years that we have been worshipping with The Gathering on Sunday nights. We started out that first week with one single mom and her daughter from the neighborhood (downtown Tyler) and about 8 "church people" from Glenwood and West Erwin Churches of Christ. This Sunday we had about 12 "church people" from Glenwood and over 40 people from the neighborhood. Hallelujah!

Why are the neighborhood folks coming?
*They are coming for the praise & worship time (with one of the worst worship leaders ever!);
*They are coming for the verse-by-verse Bible study time (we have focused on the Gospels and Acts);
*They are coming for the praying and sharing time (this week 2 guys had "a song on their heart" and shared it solo);
*They are coming for the pot-luck meal and fellowship time;
*They are coming because they sense that they are accepted and even loved!

I am frequently asked, Where is this leading? I still don't know. But God seems to be involved and is able to use our feeble efforts to shine some light on some lives that don't get much light.

I'm thankful for Don & Derrick who shared this vision with me and helped to get it going. I'm thankful to our gracious hosts, the West Erwin Church of Christ, who have allowed us to use the Benevolence Center free of charge. I am thankful for all the helpers who have been a part of the ministry, especially Dana, the amazing Robinsons, the Teers, the Glenwood singles, Dixianna, and the ladies from William Booth Apts. I'm thankful for the wonderful gifts of sandwiches and desserts we've consistently received from Glenwood members. But I'm especially thankful to the Holy Spirit of God who has led us, protected us and encouraged us all along the way!

Grace and peace to all! The world is watching!