Regarding the building, in order to support the huge growing numbers of people who attend, it has expanded twice, and now the main sanctuary seats about 2500. However, because the leadership fears what you’re describing above, the new solution is to spawn new satellites. So my wife and I have joined the newest satellite, which is closer to where we live anyway.

Right now we don’t even have a real home – we’re using the gym of a school to meet, since that’s the only space available that’s not expensive (remember, saving money for those who need it). In a month or so, we’ll even have to start hauling equipment out every week, too – separation of church and state is important, after all.

The director at this satellite likes to use this word picture: meeting on Sunday to worship and hear a sermon is simply the church (church is a group of a people, not a building) becoming ice, then after that the church “melts” and flows into the community, giving it life and helping those that need help.

You’ll also be interested to know that, among the many many things to help those need – like creating meals to feed 1.5 million people during the 40 days of lent – the church has helped build at least 70 wells in Africa. The leadership originally predicted that they’d get enough donations to only build 12.

In addition to speaking out against it in blog form, I’d challenge you to put your words into action and help out those in need through community service. Hit me up any time you’re interested, I know of a lot of opportunities you can help those in need.

Besides community service, another way to live like Jesus is to love those around you and to serve them, even if they’re not the poor. Everyone needs love, even the publishers. :)