I want to thank you all for praying for our church and all the ways we have been trying to bring the gospel to our community before, during and after Easter. As usual, God has been leaving us amazed... absolutely amazed! Easter Sunday was incredible. We had 117 people Easter morning which was exciting and fun beyond description. What an honor to get to share the story of the resurrection with people who understand its power as well as those who do not... yet. I was worshiping Jesus simply for his grace to empower so many of our people to invite their lost and unchurched friends and family members. The people of The Pathway stepped up boldly and invited folks in their circles of influence and I could not be more thankful!
Most of you know we were praying that Easter would not just be one high attendance Sunday. We have been praying that God would maximize the season for his glory. This past Sunday we had 85 people gather. My heart is a bit torn. The months leading up to Easter we have been averaging around 70... so to have 85 is tremendous growth. But I want you all to know that I've been asking God to move our worship gathering beyond 100 people this year. I still believe he can do that and I would ask that you pray that this Easter spark turns into a flame of worship & kingdom growth.
We also launched 3 new groups Easter week. One new Intentional Community and 2 new connect groups... groups that will hopefully be a first step into Intentional Community. Again, mixed emotions. We've had people embrace all 3 groups, but not as many new people as we had hoped... yet! That being said, we've already seen new people join groups this week. Sometimes I think it just takes time and schedule adjustments for people to get involved. Please pray that these groups lead people into authentic, messy, beautiful, missional and effective Intentional Community. That's where disciples are made. That's where the church gathers and scatters. There is so much potential right now I am just asking God to help me stay out of his way!
117 people on Easter Sunday. From 5 Intentional Communities to 6. From 0 connect groups to 2. We baptized 3 on Sunday evening... what a party!!! There are changes for us on the horizon. We need more leaders... please pray for more leaders. Kelli and I went on a walk last night and just talked about how much we love where God has placed us. Is it hard at times? Absolutely. But we love what God is doing in Tacoma. We can't wait to see what the future holds!
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