So this weekend I had the privilege of spending some time with some great friends at The Bakery Studio here in Colorado Springs. We are working on Chris Watt's new record and also doing some song writing for various things. I love the studio and I get to come down here quite often to be a part of several projects. Something hit me as we were leaving the studio yesterday though:
As we were leaving I was reflecting on how humbling the studio sessions are for me. I feel confident as a guitar player and I feel like I'm creative and talented. But when I put myself in a PERFECT situation, where every single note, strum, tuning, hook line, riff, picking, & timing has to be spot on, I realize how far I really am from where I need to be. So I asked Brad for some "next step" feedback. What should I challenge myself on so that each time I'm in the studio I am better. I felt humbled because I quickly realized all my "lazy" areas that I never work on. Or the things that I don't think matter until I put myself in the studio.
The danger I realized is how much I do this in my walk with God. Here's the catch. Some of us don't have a true understanding of where we REALLY are in our walks with God because we are not putting ourselves in "the studio". I AM NOT TALKING ABOUT RIGHTEOUS PERFECTION, or saying lets all be perfect. Here is what I am saying. Some of us are content where we are and become complacent, we never put ourselves in "the studio" where all is shaken & revealed. God is "the studio", and I when I get a around Him I get a real evaluation of where I am at. Its there that we are challenged in our comforts, our laziness, & our compromises. We get around the ONE who is Holy and Perfect and we realize where we are, and we should ask "Father, what's the next step for me, what needs to go, what needs to be challenged, what needs to be tweaked so that I can continually become more like you?"
For several, we struggle with our devotional life, going to church consistently, surrounding our self with the right influences, having a private prayer closet, etc. These are things that put us in the "evaluation room". If we never go there, then we are in danger of becoming Revelation 3 vomit.
I have learned to love my time in the studio, because I know when I leave I am becoming a better musician. So I am learning to love my "GOD STUDIO" where I ask him to search me, challenge me, and make me more like Him. Have you been to "the studio" lately?
Headed to the Studio,
Adam
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
The Weight of the Race
A couple of weeks ago I was spending some time in my devotions and praying about life and ministry and such. I felt God speak this to me:
Ministry is like a relay race. The kind with a baton. The way we get started determines the way we end. Everyone hands off the baton to the other racer. Its of most importance that the guy in front does the best he can so that the next guy doesn't have to make up the slack of the other guy, which eventually leads to a bad finish for the final guy.
This is why the greeters in the parking lot, the ones folding bulletins, those leading worship, those bringing the word, those dealing with kids, student ministries, and everything else carries huge weight.
I think sometimes we separate ministries. Saying "well, that's the student department and that's the children's, etc". Not realizing that if I drop the baton as a first impressions guy or a youth worker, I potentially damage what God wants to do from the pulpit in someones heart.
As a worship leader, I must make sure I do everything I can to the best of my ability to help people receive what God has for them thru the word God has given pastor Jeff.
I think sometimes we get lazy and don't carry the "weight of the race" and that's when we start dropping batons in ministry. That goes for all areas. People begin to leave and you become a bad steward of the talents and gifts God has given you.
The flip side of that is, the beauty of working hard and to the best of our abilities. When we train hard, the end result is worth it.
We are all in this for one purpose. Many roles, one goal.
Learning,
Adam
Ministry is like a relay race. The kind with a baton. The way we get started determines the way we end. Everyone hands off the baton to the other racer. Its of most importance that the guy in front does the best he can so that the next guy doesn't have to make up the slack of the other guy, which eventually leads to a bad finish for the final guy.
This is why the greeters in the parking lot, the ones folding bulletins, those leading worship, those bringing the word, those dealing with kids, student ministries, and everything else carries huge weight.
I think sometimes we separate ministries. Saying "well, that's the student department and that's the children's, etc". Not realizing that if I drop the baton as a first impressions guy or a youth worker, I potentially damage what God wants to do from the pulpit in someones heart.
As a worship leader, I must make sure I do everything I can to the best of my ability to help people receive what God has for them thru the word God has given pastor Jeff.
I think sometimes we get lazy and don't carry the "weight of the race" and that's when we start dropping batons in ministry. That goes for all areas. People begin to leave and you become a bad steward of the talents and gifts God has given you.
The flip side of that is, the beauty of working hard and to the best of our abilities. When we train hard, the end result is worth it.
We are all in this for one purpose. Many roles, one goal.
Learning,
Adam
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Be The Church Day video!
Here is a link to the video for Be The Church day, where we canceled church to go out and BE the church. 6 projects and peoples lives were changed. God did a miracle. It was a very powerful thing to be apart of. This entire series has been incredible and we are seeing God change our minds and hearts towards what the church is supposed to REALLY BE! Enjoy...
http://vimeo.com/6727011
http://vimeo.com/6727011
Monday, September 14, 2009
Sunday Set List
Solution - Hillsong United
Beautiful Jesus - Kristian Stanfill
Light up the World - Desperation Band
Give me your eyes - Brandon Heath
Go Tell It - Lee Mcderment
Beautiful Jesus - Kristian Stanfill
Light up the World - Desperation Band
Give me your eyes - Brandon Heath
Go Tell It - Lee Mcderment
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Is Jesus recognized in your life and church?
I was reading in my morning devotions today in Mark chapter 6. Jesus has been healing people, feeding people, teaching people, and wanted to get away and rest cause so many people were coming and going. Then the disciples jump on a boat and head over to Bethsaida, Jesus walks on water, calms every thing. And when they got to Gennesaret it says:
"The people recognized Jesus at once, and they ran throughout the whole area, carrying sick people on mats to wherever they heard he was. Wherever he went-in villages, cities, or the countryside(WYOMING)-they brought the sick out to the marketplaces. They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed."
I was moved by the fact that the people RECOGNIZED him, and responded. They brought everyone the knew that needed him, it sounded chaotic.
It made me think, do our cities recognize Jesus in our churches and our lives. Are the "SICK" coming to find life in Jesus. Is there a sense of chaos to get close to Jesus and possibly be healed.
Jesus may your name be so famous in our city, that the hurting, broken, lost, rich, poor, healthy and unhealthy, men, women, and children will flood your churches to "touch the fringe our your robe" and be healed and given life to its fullest. Let us get out of the way and simply provide the place for YOU and them to meet.
Adam
"The people recognized Jesus at once, and they ran throughout the whole area, carrying sick people on mats to wherever they heard he was. Wherever he went-in villages, cities, or the countryside(WYOMING)-they brought the sick out to the marketplaces. They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed."
I was moved by the fact that the people RECOGNIZED him, and responded. They brought everyone the knew that needed him, it sounded chaotic.
It made me think, do our cities recognize Jesus in our churches and our lives. Are the "SICK" coming to find life in Jesus. Is there a sense of chaos to get close to Jesus and possibly be healed.
Jesus may your name be so famous in our city, that the hurting, broken, lost, rich, poor, healthy and unhealthy, men, women, and children will flood your churches to "touch the fringe our your robe" and be healed and given life to its fullest. Let us get out of the way and simply provide the place for YOU and them to meet.
Adam
Sunday Set List
Bare Bones Sunday is what we called this past Sunday. We literally used ZERO volunteers. NONE. NO ONE. It was the WORST Sunday ever in the history of Element Church as far as presentation goes. No one greeted, no donuts, coffee, no ushers, no worship guides, no lyrcs on the screen, no screen at all, no theatrical lighting, no sound (I PLUGGED MY MIC AND GUITAR INTO MY AMP) and led worship, no First Impression people in the lobby, no door openers, no one in the parking lot. IT WAS HORRIBLE. FOR THIS REASON, we can't do anything without our volunteers. Our volunteers are priceless and they do a phenomenal job. It takes over 100 volunteers to pull off 1 Sunday morning. We didn't want to TALK about it anymore we wanted to SHOW it. The point was made.
-- We received over 90 interest cards for people to step up and volunteer.
Set List:
O Praise Him: David Crowder
Reign In Us: Starfield
Funny How: Adam Cruz
For Who You Are: Hillsong United
-- We received over 90 interest cards for people to step up and volunteer.
Set List:
O Praise Him: David Crowder
Reign In Us: Starfield
Funny How: Adam Cruz
For Who You Are: Hillsong United
Monday, August 31, 2009
sunday set list 8-30-09
Salvation is Here - Hillsong United
You Never Let Go - Matt Redman
Till The End - Adam Cruz
I Am Free - Desperation Band
I introduced my new song "Till the End" to the band and they knocked it out of the park. Phenomenal job. Everyone added a creative flare to it and I think it connected well with everyone.
You Never Let Go - Matt Redman
Till The End - Adam Cruz
I Am Free - Desperation Band
I introduced my new song "Till the End" to the band and they knocked it out of the park. Phenomenal job. Everyone added a creative flare to it and I think it connected well with everyone.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Sunday Afterthoughts 8-23
This week I wrote a new song based on the series we are in, called "Till the End". It was literally a download straight from heaven. I wrote it late one night and felt like it was my heart for this series. Jeff has coined the phrase "Till the End" throughout this series. So today Jeff talked about making it to the end in our Marriages. I had Amber sing the song with me at the end of service for a time for Couples to pray thru this idea. It was beautiful having her up there with me. I love my wife very much and I am committed "till the end" with her. I love being able to do what we love, together. (who knows maybe with enough prodding from you she will consider singing more on sunday's, hint hint). Regardless it was a really cool moment today to participate in that with her!
I love being a part of a church that is helping people experience life. I love that when I come in, I leave different. I love having a pastor that isn't afraid of man, but fears God and preaches what God says to preach. I love serving with a team that is WILDLY CRAZY ABOUT JESUS. It's contagious.
We had some 247 kids in our E:Kids ministry today. Absolutely in sane.
Had a packed house all 3 services
I love walking out into the lobby and feeling an intense BUZZ in the air of anticipation and passion for Jesus and what He is doing here at Element Church.
To say that I am incredibly STOKED for our next series "BE", would be an understatement. We have things planned at Element that have never been done before. EVER! YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS SEPTEMBER 6th! AT ALL! Make sure you do everything you can to be here at Element, and don't think you'll just listen to the podcast or check it out online. The rest of the weeks are going to be incredible as well as we take a look into what the church should really "BE"!
Jesus was worshiped today, the Word was preached and lives were changed. LOVE IT!
Had a GREAT night of Settlers of Catan at the Andrews house. I won!!! Cannot EVER get enough of that game. lol
Off to bed. Excited about Lead Team meeting with the guys tomorrow morning. Finishing up the book "IT" by Craig Groshel. Really good book.
Set List:
Today is the Day - Lincoln Brewster
Sweetly Broken - Brandon Heath
Came to my Rescue - Hillsong United
How He Loves - Kim Walker
Till the End - Adam Cruz
Till The End,
Adam
I love being a part of a church that is helping people experience life. I love that when I come in, I leave different. I love having a pastor that isn't afraid of man, but fears God and preaches what God says to preach. I love serving with a team that is WILDLY CRAZY ABOUT JESUS. It's contagious.
We had some 247 kids in our E:Kids ministry today. Absolutely in sane.
Had a packed house all 3 services
I love walking out into the lobby and feeling an intense BUZZ in the air of anticipation and passion for Jesus and what He is doing here at Element Church.
To say that I am incredibly STOKED for our next series "BE", would be an understatement. We have things planned at Element that have never been done before. EVER! YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS SEPTEMBER 6th! AT ALL! Make sure you do everything you can to be here at Element, and don't think you'll just listen to the podcast or check it out online. The rest of the weeks are going to be incredible as well as we take a look into what the church should really "BE"!
Jesus was worshiped today, the Word was preached and lives were changed. LOVE IT!
Had a GREAT night of Settlers of Catan at the Andrews house. I won!!! Cannot EVER get enough of that game. lol
Off to bed. Excited about Lead Team meeting with the guys tomorrow morning. Finishing up the book "IT" by Craig Groshel. Really good book.
Set List:
Today is the Day - Lincoln Brewster
Sweetly Broken - Brandon Heath
Came to my Rescue - Hillsong United
How He Loves - Kim Walker
Till the End - Adam Cruz
Till The End,
Adam
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Sunday Afterthoughts and updates
Man I have entered this summer at full speed. I feel like I have been out of Cheyenne more than in Cheyenne. I always have thoughts that I want to blog to help keep everyone in the loop with what is happening with Amber and I and here at Element but I am not doing a very good job so far.
-- I am tired from today & I have no voice left. Someone told me to go drink a few shots because it helps. Hmmmm. I think ill pass, any other thoughts?
-- God was worshiped today! God's presence was thick today. We as believers bring the presence of God with us when we gather. I love gathering in a corporate setting to lift high the name of Christ. On the contrary its of vital importance that we worship (in song and word) privately.
-- We began our new series called "UNTOUCHABLES" today. Thru the month we will be taking straight aim AT THE CHURCH. Jeff talked about the issue of Character today. Very challenging. I am truly stretched like I have never been thru the words God gives Jeff.
-- Getting pumped about next week for our Tailgate baptism party. I think we are baptizing some 28 people. Going to be sweet. Remember next Sunday following 3rd service.
-- I have already designed the graphic for our next series and will start work on the new promo video which will show next Sunday. Untouchables and this next series are going to be intense here at Element. I am excited for the freedom God is bringing to all of us thru this next 7 weeks.
Alright I am headed to partnership class. And then sleeping lol.
Set List for Sunday July 12th:
Today is the day - Lincoln Brewster
Spring of Life - Kristian Stanfill
Mighty to Save - United
From the Inside Out - United
Adam
-- I am tired from today & I have no voice left. Someone told me to go drink a few shots because it helps. Hmmmm. I think ill pass, any other thoughts?
-- God was worshiped today! God's presence was thick today. We as believers bring the presence of God with us when we gather. I love gathering in a corporate setting to lift high the name of Christ. On the contrary its of vital importance that we worship (in song and word) privately.
-- We began our new series called "UNTOUCHABLES" today. Thru the month we will be taking straight aim AT THE CHURCH. Jeff talked about the issue of Character today. Very challenging. I am truly stretched like I have never been thru the words God gives Jeff.
-- Getting pumped about next week for our Tailgate baptism party. I think we are baptizing some 28 people. Going to be sweet. Remember next Sunday following 3rd service.
-- I have already designed the graphic for our next series and will start work on the new promo video which will show next Sunday. Untouchables and this next series are going to be intense here at Element. I am excited for the freedom God is bringing to all of us thru this next 7 weeks.
Alright I am headed to partnership class. And then sleeping lol.
Set List for Sunday July 12th:
Today is the day - Lincoln Brewster
Spring of Life - Kristian Stanfill
Mighty to Save - United
From the Inside Out - United
Adam
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Light Tech
Currently Element Church is looking for a Light Tech.
Being a Light Tech means programming and running our motion and par can light systems for our Sunday morning worship experience. We will provide all training necessary to do a great job on Sunday mornings. This is a very fun opportunity / working environment to be creative here at element church!
Email me at adam@elementweb.net if you are interested. I have an application for you to fill out and we will get you plugged in right away.
searching,
Adam
Being a Light Tech means programming and running our motion and par can light systems for our Sunday morning worship experience. We will provide all training necessary to do a great job on Sunday mornings. This is a very fun opportunity / working environment to be creative here at element church!
Email me at adam@elementweb.net if you are interested. I have an application for you to fill out and we will get you plugged in right away.
searching,
Adam
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
afterthoughts, a confernce, and a blog long due
Sunday was one of those times you'll never MAKE happen and you'll remember and hold to for a long time. The presence of God was so thick in that room and you Elementers just pressed in for it. Man I was moved and loved meeting with Jesus. I hope all your hearts were moved and brought closer to Jesus.
My band knocked it out Sunday. Take me aside. They worked hard and helped be the conduit for worship to flow thru. Great job Bryant, Jeremiah, Jeremy, Mark, Amanda, Jason, Todd, Ben, Katie. Everyone needs to know how much each of these people mean to me. They are a direct influence on people experiencing life. Thank you for all the time you guys put in.
I brought the team down for the Enter Worship Conference this week. We are starting day two. Last night was a very powerful time of worship and a challenging message. A great start to the week. We are very excited about what God is going to teach us.
Here are a couple team shots:
(We let the ASCENT guys hang in our presence, we all know they wish they were ENTER peeps, LOVE YOU!!)
My band knocked it out Sunday. Take me aside. They worked hard and helped be the conduit for worship to flow thru. Great job Bryant, Jeremiah, Jeremy, Mark, Amanda, Jason, Todd, Ben, Katie. Everyone needs to know how much each of these people mean to me. They are a direct influence on people experiencing life. Thank you for all the time you guys put in.
I brought the team down for the Enter Worship Conference this week. We are starting day two. Last night was a very powerful time of worship and a challenging message. A great start to the week. We are very excited about what God is going to teach us.
Here are a couple team shots:
(We let the ASCENT guys hang in our presence, we all know they wish they were ENTER peeps, LOVE YOU!!)
Friday, May 29, 2009
New Yard
Over the last couple of weeks Amber and I did a major overhaul on our yard. Here are the before and afters.
Monday, May 25, 2009
BolderBoulder Pics
Wow, I am tired from the eventful day. Amber and I went to Bolder, CO. with some friends for our first "official" run. It was a 10k - 6.2 miles.
Amber's Time: 51:31
My Time: 53:44
Here are some pics:
Amber's Time: 51:31
My Time: 53:44
Here are some pics:
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Sunday Afterthoughts 5-24-09
Here are my thoughts from the day.
-- I'm tired. Its been awhile since I have felt exhausted on sunday, not sure if its cause I've been sick all week. But man I'm tired today.
-- Worship was powerful. God's name was declared! My team was ON today. Element you guys have a great worship team, PUT ME ASIDE, this team passionately loves Jesus, loves worship and loves to see His church worship. I am so blessed with great musicians that love Jesus so much.
-- Jeff tackled the topic of prayer today! Something we all struggle with. Not "HOW TO PRAY" but "DOES GOD HEAR ME WHEN I PRAY?" We reminisced over lunch about the sermon and what was big for us. It was cool to hear everyone. Great job Jeff.
-- Amber and I are headed out of town to run the boulderbolder 10k. Should be a good time. Our first competitive run.
Set List-
Sing Sing Sing - Chris Tomlin
Let Your Kingdom Come - Adam Cruz
Your Name - New Life Worship
I've Had Questions - Tim Hughes
Adam
-- I'm tired. Its been awhile since I have felt exhausted on sunday, not sure if its cause I've been sick all week. But man I'm tired today.
-- Worship was powerful. God's name was declared! My team was ON today. Element you guys have a great worship team, PUT ME ASIDE, this team passionately loves Jesus, loves worship and loves to see His church worship. I am so blessed with great musicians that love Jesus so much.
-- Jeff tackled the topic of prayer today! Something we all struggle with. Not "HOW TO PRAY" but "DOES GOD HEAR ME WHEN I PRAY?" We reminisced over lunch about the sermon and what was big for us. It was cool to hear everyone. Great job Jeff.
-- Amber and I are headed out of town to run the boulderbolder 10k. Should be a good time. Our first competitive run.
Set List-
Sing Sing Sing - Chris Tomlin
Let Your Kingdom Come - Adam Cruz
Your Name - New Life Worship
I've Had Questions - Tim Hughes
Adam
Sunday, May 10, 2009
sunday afterthoughts
Today we started testimonies in our worship team small group time. I asked each person to share their story of coming to know Jesus. I shared mine and Amanda shared her's. Thanks for being brave Amanda. I am looking forward to hearing everyone's story. There is so much power in our story's. I love the POWER OF GOD in both sides, the one who experienced the party rebel life, and the one who stayed strong. There isn't a boring story when you are talking about Jesus rescuing us from hell. I love you guys. Thanks for your sacrifice in developing a healthy worship team.
It has been a worship filled weekend. Friday morning, I took a few team members with me to Sheridan, WY to lead worship for a big 30 HR Famine city wide worship night. It was a really powerful time. We did an hour and a half worship set and God's name was praised in that WYO theater. We were all beet afterwards. Got home yesturday and got up this morning to continue.
I have been looking forward to today for a while. We schedule out our set lists 6 weeks in advance. I knew that song wise this was going to be a powerful sunday. Partnered with Jeff's message on God's love, it was an intense day. The altar response 3rd service was just awesome. Each service was great but 3rd, there was a presence that took us to a whole new level. Jeff told me of several stories of people who found life today. I never get sick of hearing that.
We all need to be experiencing the love of the father. Love Jeff's line "if we are not experiencing the love of God who's fault is that our's or God's?" We choose to accept the love of God. He has already offered it.
I am so tired after this full weekend. But its so worth it. Wouldn't want to be doing anything else.
Set List Sunday May 10th:
All Who Are Thirsty (just the chorus) - Brenton Brown
Open Up The Gates - PlanetShakers
The One Who Loves Me - Adam Cruz
Indescribable - Chris Tomlin
How He Loves - Kim Walker
resting,
adam
It has been a worship filled weekend. Friday morning, I took a few team members with me to Sheridan, WY to lead worship for a big 30 HR Famine city wide worship night. It was a really powerful time. We did an hour and a half worship set and God's name was praised in that WYO theater. We were all beet afterwards. Got home yesturday and got up this morning to continue.
I have been looking forward to today for a while. We schedule out our set lists 6 weeks in advance. I knew that song wise this was going to be a powerful sunday. Partnered with Jeff's message on God's love, it was an intense day. The altar response 3rd service was just awesome. Each service was great but 3rd, there was a presence that took us to a whole new level. Jeff told me of several stories of people who found life today. I never get sick of hearing that.
We all need to be experiencing the love of the father. Love Jeff's line "if we are not experiencing the love of God who's fault is that our's or God's?" We choose to accept the love of God. He has already offered it.
I am so tired after this full weekend. But its so worth it. Wouldn't want to be doing anything else.
Set List Sunday May 10th:
All Who Are Thirsty (just the chorus) - Brenton Brown
Open Up The Gates - PlanetShakers
The One Who Loves Me - Adam Cruz
Indescribable - Chris Tomlin
How He Loves - Kim Walker
resting,
adam
Thursday, May 7, 2009
4 Things that Create a Healthy Worship Team (4)
This will be my final post on Healthy Worship Teams. Again these are just some thoughts that I have had the last few weeks about what creates a healthy worship team. You must adapt and adjust aspects of these to fit your team and model, however I think the big ideas are essential. You can read my previous 3 posts here, here, and here.
#4 - Create a Community
The trap that a lot of us can get stuck in, is to focus only on the sunday morning worship time slot and the rehearsal to get you there. This may sound a little like the last post but its different for its focus on the group as a whole. I am not saying that Sunday morning isn't important, because its the reason we have a team. Its what all the hours and hours of planning and practicing go into. However from a team perspective, there is way more. And its the behind the scenes action that creates the best platform experiences.
One of the big things for me this year was to create a "COMMUNITY OF DISCIPLESHIP". I didn't want Thursday nights and Sunday mornings to be all there was to our worship ministry or our relationships. Inside of that "COMMUNITY", I wanted to see individual growth as "WORSHIP LEADERS", stretching us in our talents, and to encourage/challenge us to a "LIFE OF WORSHIP".
Community won't happen on performance day. It happens off stage.
About 2 months ago, I felt that we needed to start a lifegroup on sunday mornings with the worship team. Now that we are doing 3 services there was some room to do that. We meet during the sermon of 1st service and talk about life. Its a chance to cast vision for where I feel God taking us, its a chance to hear each others stories as a group, to get to know each others personalities, to encourage one another. This has been a great UNIFYING experience for our team. We are just getting started and I have a lot of ideas. I have found that there needs to be time where you as a leader cast vision, teach on worship, etc. Not just lead music. We as leaders have to 1st model a life of worship privately and then teach and invite people to join the journey.
Another community thing I have seen effective is to cancel thursday nights and go have fun. Again BBQ or watch a DVD of other worship teams, change things up. I know rehearsal nights are vital and key, but you have to be willing to provide opportunities for community which will enhance your sunday mornings. Do your best to make rehearsals enjoyable and fun. If its stressfull and full of attitudes and negativity all night, your team will eventually get burned out. Bring in food, or jam on some good Jazz chords in pre-rehearsal, be creative, but have fun. Your team will feed off of you as the leader. I have seen this first hand, for the better and worse.
Again if your team is unified and together, you worship experiences will be that much better.
learning,
adam
#4 - Create a Community
The trap that a lot of us can get stuck in, is to focus only on the sunday morning worship time slot and the rehearsal to get you there. This may sound a little like the last post but its different for its focus on the group as a whole. I am not saying that Sunday morning isn't important, because its the reason we have a team. Its what all the hours and hours of planning and practicing go into. However from a team perspective, there is way more. And its the behind the scenes action that creates the best platform experiences.
One of the big things for me this year was to create a "COMMUNITY OF DISCIPLESHIP". I didn't want Thursday nights and Sunday mornings to be all there was to our worship ministry or our relationships. Inside of that "COMMUNITY", I wanted to see individual growth as "WORSHIP LEADERS", stretching us in our talents, and to encourage/challenge us to a "LIFE OF WORSHIP".
Community won't happen on performance day. It happens off stage.
About 2 months ago, I felt that we needed to start a lifegroup on sunday mornings with the worship team. Now that we are doing 3 services there was some room to do that. We meet during the sermon of 1st service and talk about life. Its a chance to cast vision for where I feel God taking us, its a chance to hear each others stories as a group, to get to know each others personalities, to encourage one another. This has been a great UNIFYING experience for our team. We are just getting started and I have a lot of ideas. I have found that there needs to be time where you as a leader cast vision, teach on worship, etc. Not just lead music. We as leaders have to 1st model a life of worship privately and then teach and invite people to join the journey.
Another community thing I have seen effective is to cancel thursday nights and go have fun. Again BBQ or watch a DVD of other worship teams, change things up. I know rehearsal nights are vital and key, but you have to be willing to provide opportunities for community which will enhance your sunday mornings. Do your best to make rehearsals enjoyable and fun. If its stressfull and full of attitudes and negativity all night, your team will eventually get burned out. Bring in food, or jam on some good Jazz chords in pre-rehearsal, be creative, but have fun. Your team will feed off of you as the leader. I have seen this first hand, for the better and worse.
Again if your team is unified and together, you worship experiences will be that much better.
learning,
adam
4 Things that Create a Healthy Worship Team (3)
Over the last 2 years of doing worship ministry I have learned a great deal about NON-MUSIC related leadership. When I was in the School Of Worship I remember one of the things they would always say is "WORSHIP MINISTRY IS 10% MUSIC and 90% PEOPLE". Man have I seen that. If you pour into your team and invest in your people, then the experience/music side of it should come naturally. Once again, I am learning this big time right now and by no means claim to have it figured out. You can read my previous 2 posts here and here.
#3: INVEST IN THE VALUE OF THE INDIVIDUALS
This is probably one of the most difficult things for me. Not only are you trying to cast vision, lead rehearsals, pick music, make sure all the administration stuff is done, but also create value in each and every team member. Each person needs to know that they are essential to the team. That without them they would be missed. Now its important to understand that some people DO carry more weight. If you have and entire rock band on stage and your drummer doesn't show, there will be issues. BUT that does not mean that BGV's aren't as valuable. So its important to find ways with each individual to make them feel valuable.
One thing that we have started this year is a quarterly evaluation. Its an opportunity for me one on one to challenge my team members and to help them understand what I want out of them, so that their is never any confusion. It also gives them an opportunity to be heard. Maybe they have some concerns or just need some confirmation that they are doing a great job. Give them an ear.
GET TOGETHER OUTSIDE OF WORSHIP ATMOSPHERES. Do a BBQ together, go to some concerts, hangout, become a community. This will help them understand you are interested in THEM AS A PERSON not as "your just my drummer, or my singer, or whatever".
Check up on your team. Make phone calls and text messages, emails, etc for NO REASON. Just to see how they are doing. Not always wanting something from them. I just received a phone call with a message from a friend that said "I'm not calling for any reason just wanted to see how you were doing, call me later". That meant the world to me!
Again this is something that I am not great at, but I'm learning. EVERY PERSON IS A DIFFERENT PERSON AND WILL NEED VALIDATED IN THAT MANY DIFFERENT WAYS.
When you invest in your team they will invest back into your ministry. When they see that you care about them its much easier for them to care about you and the worship ministry. The goal is a unified team and when there is unity, your worship experience will be that much greater.
investing,
Adam
#3: INVEST IN THE VALUE OF THE INDIVIDUALS
This is probably one of the most difficult things for me. Not only are you trying to cast vision, lead rehearsals, pick music, make sure all the administration stuff is done, but also create value in each and every team member. Each person needs to know that they are essential to the team. That without them they would be missed. Now its important to understand that some people DO carry more weight. If you have and entire rock band on stage and your drummer doesn't show, there will be issues. BUT that does not mean that BGV's aren't as valuable. So its important to find ways with each individual to make them feel valuable.
One thing that we have started this year is a quarterly evaluation. Its an opportunity for me one on one to challenge my team members and to help them understand what I want out of them, so that their is never any confusion. It also gives them an opportunity to be heard. Maybe they have some concerns or just need some confirmation that they are doing a great job. Give them an ear.
GET TOGETHER OUTSIDE OF WORSHIP ATMOSPHERES. Do a BBQ together, go to some concerts, hangout, become a community. This will help them understand you are interested in THEM AS A PERSON not as "your just my drummer, or my singer, or whatever".
Check up on your team. Make phone calls and text messages, emails, etc for NO REASON. Just to see how they are doing. Not always wanting something from them. I just received a phone call with a message from a friend that said "I'm not calling for any reason just wanted to see how you were doing, call me later". That meant the world to me!
Again this is something that I am not great at, but I'm learning. EVERY PERSON IS A DIFFERENT PERSON AND WILL NEED VALIDATED IN THAT MANY DIFFERENT WAYS.
When you invest in your team they will invest back into your ministry. When they see that you care about them its much easier for them to care about you and the worship ministry. The goal is a unified team and when there is unity, your worship experience will be that much greater.
investing,
Adam
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
4 Things that Create a Healthy Worship Team (2)
I am continuing the blog series on what I have seen that creates a healthy worship team. You can read my previous post here. Again I have by no means figured this thing out, but as I continue to grow these are things that have helped me as a leader.
#2 - Coach Others To Do What You Do
This is a brand new concept to me. As a staff here at Element, this year, we have made it an intentional part of our ministries, to begin coaching people. I am learning how to do this and finding ways to be coached at the same time. It is healthy for your team and the congregation to realize that "blank" church worship does not rest on your shoulders. Its healthy for them to see other people leading worship, and its healthy for you to let others lead.
Now realize as I said in the previous post, NOT just ANYONE can lead. In fact this is a lot more of an EXCELLENCE issue. While many people can be on worship teams as instrumentalist and vocalists, not everyone is designed to LEAD worship. WHICH IS OK!
Character, style, personality, talent, and most important, does your lead pastor approve with direction of the church, all play HUGE roles into finding worship leaders.
Its important to find these leaders and invest into them thru coaching. Provide them with all that you are learning and avenues in which to grow. Have them help you with song selections and song structures, styles and formats. This will give them tools necessary to develope into a worship leader. Then give them opportunities to lead. Maybe a song here or there on different weeks. And then give them an entire set.
BE ON THE PLATFORM WHILE THEY LEAD! Its one thing to be out of town and say "hey your on this week". Its another thing when you say "hey I am backing you up this week". Give them center stage and let the lead it all. This is a very healthy approach for your congregation. It teaches them that its not about 1 guy, and 1 style. and again giving them opportunity is what will help them develop into who God may be calling them too be even if they mess up, and even if its not done as well. You have to be willing to create growth opportunities. JUST REMEMBER WHERE YOU STARTED! (I KNOW I DO)
As things grow you HAVE to multiply yourself. If you are never coaching anyone then you will never have anyone PERIOD.
This is a concept that is hard for a lot of leaders. To share their SPOT. However, its the most healthy for you, your team, and your church.
Being Coached,
Adam
#2 - Coach Others To Do What You Do
This is a brand new concept to me. As a staff here at Element, this year, we have made it an intentional part of our ministries, to begin coaching people. I am learning how to do this and finding ways to be coached at the same time. It is healthy for your team and the congregation to realize that "blank" church worship does not rest on your shoulders. Its healthy for them to see other people leading worship, and its healthy for you to let others lead.
Now realize as I said in the previous post, NOT just ANYONE can lead. In fact this is a lot more of an EXCELLENCE issue. While many people can be on worship teams as instrumentalist and vocalists, not everyone is designed to LEAD worship. WHICH IS OK!
Character, style, personality, talent, and most important, does your lead pastor approve with direction of the church, all play HUGE roles into finding worship leaders.
Its important to find these leaders and invest into them thru coaching. Provide them with all that you are learning and avenues in which to grow. Have them help you with song selections and song structures, styles and formats. This will give them tools necessary to develope into a worship leader. Then give them opportunities to lead. Maybe a song here or there on different weeks. And then give them an entire set.
BE ON THE PLATFORM WHILE THEY LEAD! Its one thing to be out of town and say "hey your on this week". Its another thing when you say "hey I am backing you up this week". Give them center stage and let the lead it all. This is a very healthy approach for your congregation. It teaches them that its not about 1 guy, and 1 style. and again giving them opportunity is what will help them develop into who God may be calling them too be even if they mess up, and even if its not done as well. You have to be willing to create growth opportunities. JUST REMEMBER WHERE YOU STARTED! (I KNOW I DO)
As things grow you HAVE to multiply yourself. If you are never coaching anyone then you will never have anyone PERIOD.
This is a concept that is hard for a lot of leaders. To share their SPOT. However, its the most healthy for you, your team, and your church.
Being Coached,
Adam
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
4 Things that Create a Healthy Worship Team (1)
At the beginning of this year I began to feel God stir my heart for some specific directions to take the worship team. As I met with Jeff from time to time we talked about next steps for the team. I have by no means figured this thing out, and in fact these are things I am currently struggling with and learning my self. But these are some specific things I feel like God has placed inside of me to help create a healthy worship team.
1 - Multiply your Team: I really struggled when we launched Element Church with what the worship team would look like. I wanted excellence and believe that that is a key component to a great experience and there are several team models out there.
I don't believe in the "ANYONE WHO LIKES TO PLAY AND SING, CAN PLAY AND SING" model. That model is not effective at all. Every time I have seen it and talked with the worship leader they are stressed out and very frustrated and most of the time its more of a distraction than anything. Also,you may be leading someone in a direction opposite of where God is calling them because you don't want to offend their lack of ability to play or sing.
But on the flip side which is where I tend to lean, is the "ONE BAND, THE SAME BAND, EVERY WEEK" model, no hick-ups, no unpredictability, no major mess ups, so on and so on. The problem with this is that you are limited. When everyone leaves the church and moves on and you haven't been raising up knew people, then you have no-one. You also may limit someone's development into the next greatest worship leader because they were never given the opportunity. There is a balance. I tried Church Wide Auditions, and I've tried private auditions, both have there plus and minus's. The key is to be multiplying your team. Allow people to sit under your other band members on rehearsal nights and learn. Encourage each team member to be investing in someone else. You will never have a shortage of quality musicians at your disposal. And you just may be allowing the next Chris Tomlin come thru your ministry.
New blood can stretch you as a leader as well, from style, to song selections, to creative ideas. Find that balance for you but in order for there to be a healthy Worship Ministry that will last forever you must multiply your team in an excellent, quality environment.
learning,
adam
1 - Multiply your Team: I really struggled when we launched Element Church with what the worship team would look like. I wanted excellence and believe that that is a key component to a great experience and there are several team models out there.
I don't believe in the "ANYONE WHO LIKES TO PLAY AND SING, CAN PLAY AND SING" model. That model is not effective at all. Every time I have seen it and talked with the worship leader they are stressed out and very frustrated and most of the time its more of a distraction than anything. Also,you may be leading someone in a direction opposite of where God is calling them because you don't want to offend their lack of ability to play or sing.
But on the flip side which is where I tend to lean, is the "ONE BAND, THE SAME BAND, EVERY WEEK" model, no hick-ups, no unpredictability, no major mess ups, so on and so on. The problem with this is that you are limited. When everyone leaves the church and moves on and you haven't been raising up knew people, then you have no-one. You also may limit someone's development into the next greatest worship leader because they were never given the opportunity. There is a balance. I tried Church Wide Auditions, and I've tried private auditions, both have there plus and minus's. The key is to be multiplying your team. Allow people to sit under your other band members on rehearsal nights and learn. Encourage each team member to be investing in someone else. You will never have a shortage of quality musicians at your disposal. And you just may be allowing the next Chris Tomlin come thru your ministry.
New blood can stretch you as a leader as well, from style, to song selections, to creative ideas. Find that balance for you but in order for there to be a healthy Worship Ministry that will last forever you must multiply your team in an excellent, quality environment.
learning,
adam
Monday, May 4, 2009
Sunday AfterThoughts!
"I am tired"!!! - Is what I told Amber around 4:00pm yesterday. We had a very full day with rehearsal at 7:00am, 3 services, and Lead Council meeting. But I can't imagine doing anything else.
Yesturday we mixed things up a little. Pulled out an acoustic set. Very stripped down with some percussion. It was a lot of fun and a powerful time of worship. I stepped aside and had Katie lead us in worship and I got to chill on my acoustic guitar. Katie did a fantastic job leading us. I am blessed with great musicians and singers.
We did a knew song called "I've Had Questions" that Nathan suggested. If you haven't heard it, go download it now. By Tim Hughes. Its a very powerful song.
Our creative team put question marks all over the ceiling above the stage and 2 huge question marks at an angle on the back wall, with tension fabric stretched everyone. It looked amazing. Steve and Christina, you guys are awesome. Element you are blessed with some very creative people.
We launched our knew series called "Life's Toughest Questions", where Pastor Jeff is addressing 5 weeks of real, raw, burning questions inside us all. He really handled "Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People?" brilliantly.
-- God assures us of trials and hard times - "LIFE SUCKS SOMETIMES" Jeff Maness - LOL
-- "WHY" is the wrong question
-- "We must turn to the cross... The Cross Proves God's love, The Cross shows God's control, and the Cross reveals God's plan."
We are very excited about worship this week. Going to open things up in a way we have never done. The set really sets up the message. COME WITH ANTICIPATION!!
***I guess its time to make the official announcement that I am no longer apart of the BOYCOTT TWITTER group. I am officially a twitterer. LOL. SWORE I NEVER WOULD. GUESS I NEED TO STOP SWEARING. You can follow my profile using eworship.
Set List:
My Savior Lives: New Life Worship
Sweetly Broken: Jeremy Riddle
Lead Me To The Cross: Hillsong United
I've Had Questions: Tim Hughes
Yesturday we mixed things up a little. Pulled out an acoustic set. Very stripped down with some percussion. It was a lot of fun and a powerful time of worship. I stepped aside and had Katie lead us in worship and I got to chill on my acoustic guitar. Katie did a fantastic job leading us. I am blessed with great musicians and singers.
We did a knew song called "I've Had Questions" that Nathan suggested. If you haven't heard it, go download it now. By Tim Hughes. Its a very powerful song.
Our creative team put question marks all over the ceiling above the stage and 2 huge question marks at an angle on the back wall, with tension fabric stretched everyone. It looked amazing. Steve and Christina, you guys are awesome. Element you are blessed with some very creative people.
We launched our knew series called "Life's Toughest Questions", where Pastor Jeff is addressing 5 weeks of real, raw, burning questions inside us all. He really handled "Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People?" brilliantly.
-- God assures us of trials and hard times - "LIFE SUCKS SOMETIMES" Jeff Maness - LOL
-- "WHY" is the wrong question
-- "We must turn to the cross... The Cross Proves God's love, The Cross shows God's control, and the Cross reveals God's plan."
We are very excited about worship this week. Going to open things up in a way we have never done. The set really sets up the message. COME WITH ANTICIPATION!!
***I guess its time to make the official announcement that I am no longer apart of the BOYCOTT TWITTER group. I am officially a twitterer. LOL. SWORE I NEVER WOULD. GUESS I NEED TO STOP SWEARING. You can follow my profile using eworship.
Set List:
My Savior Lives: New Life Worship
Sweetly Broken: Jeremy Riddle
Lead Me To The Cross: Hillsong United
I've Had Questions: Tim Hughes
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
egg drop recap
Here is the 2009 Egg Drop recap.
Thank you to all who volunteered and thank you to all who came out.
Over 5,000 people, 40,000 Easter Eggs, and a Uhual filled with food for the shelters. Amazing!
Thank you to all who volunteered and thank you to all who came out.
Over 5,000 people, 40,000 Easter Eggs, and a Uhual filled with food for the shelters. Amazing!
Monday, April 27, 2009
sunday afterthoughts
"i feel lost" was the text i received from Jeff at 6:30am sunday. lol.
Jeff hasn't preached in 2 weeks. Its been healthy for everyone, but buckle up cause the fire is coming next week. Can't wait.
Curtis closed up our Generations series and did an outstanding job.
Loved his main idea:
"God is not something to believe in He is SOMEONE to EXPERIENCE".
We are launching Life's Toughest Questions next sunday. This is going to be a great series.
We had our smoothest/fastest sound-check/pre-service rehearsal ever yesturday. I think we knocked it out close to the actual set time. It was really good. THANK YOU BAND AND TECH GUYS FOR COMING IN READY AND STRONG. MADE FOR AN AWESOME SUNDAY MORNING.
Looking forward to the week ahead. Got some creative juices flowing in my head for upcoming series graphics, videos, set designs, possible NEW ELEMENT T-SHIRTS, new videos and random graphics. I really feel like I am headed to the next level in some things.
Alright out to lead team,
Worship Set for Sunday April 28th:
Counting On God: New Life Worship
Marvelous Light: Charlie Hall
The Glory of it All: David Crowder
My Glorious: Delirious
Jeff hasn't preached in 2 weeks. Its been healthy for everyone, but buckle up cause the fire is coming next week. Can't wait.
Curtis closed up our Generations series and did an outstanding job.
Loved his main idea:
"God is not something to believe in He is SOMEONE to EXPERIENCE".
We are launching Life's Toughest Questions next sunday. This is going to be a great series.
We had our smoothest/fastest sound-check/pre-service rehearsal ever yesturday. I think we knocked it out close to the actual set time. It was really good. THANK YOU BAND AND TECH GUYS FOR COMING IN READY AND STRONG. MADE FOR AN AWESOME SUNDAY MORNING.
Looking forward to the week ahead. Got some creative juices flowing in my head for upcoming series graphics, videos, set designs, possible NEW ELEMENT T-SHIRTS, new videos and random graphics. I really feel like I am headed to the next level in some things.
Alright out to lead team,
Worship Set for Sunday April 28th:
Counting On God: New Life Worship
Marvelous Light: Charlie Hall
The Glory of it All: David Crowder
My Glorious: Delirious
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Sunday AfterThoughts!
Im always interested in the week after easter. Who comes back? What sticks the most? How many come back? Churches always see an increase on easter sunday, the catch is what sticks and causes them to WANT to come back. Not sure what the percentage is of post easter attendance but i was amazed.
We saw 960 people come to element church today. A non easter record for element.
Today Jeff was on vacation with his wife Sabrina, so he handed the pulpit to Andy our student ministries pastor. Andy did a fabulous job.
A funny story today:
We started doing a Life Group time together as the worship team during 1st service. So the entire team was over in the office meeting while Andy was preaching. First mistake was not asking Andy what his que was to come back up. And I wasnt sure how long he would preach for. But after 20 min i received several texts saying, ITS TIME! LOL. I heard "WHERE'S THE BAND" like 3 times. Funny moment. Next time ill find out how long the message will be.
Set List:
My Savior Lives - New Life Worship
Glorified - New Life Worship
Reign in Us - Starfield
Rescue - New Life Worship
Adam
We saw 960 people come to element church today. A non easter record for element.
Today Jeff was on vacation with his wife Sabrina, so he handed the pulpit to Andy our student ministries pastor. Andy did a fabulous job.
A funny story today:
We started doing a Life Group time together as the worship team during 1st service. So the entire team was over in the office meeting while Andy was preaching. First mistake was not asking Andy what his que was to come back up. And I wasnt sure how long he would preach for. But after 20 min i received several texts saying, ITS TIME! LOL. I heard "WHERE'S THE BAND" like 3 times. Funny moment. Next time ill find out how long the message will be.
Set List:
My Savior Lives - New Life Worship
Glorified - New Life Worship
Reign in Us - Starfield
Rescue - New Life Worship
Adam
Friday, April 17, 2009
easter
this easter was one of those sundays we will never forget. PRAY DANGEROUS PRAYERS AND PARTNER WITH GOD AND THEN WATCH.
We really sensed God was urging us to pray some specific prayers for easter sunday! God exceeded all those prayers in incredible ways.
1217 people came to element. 2nd service was out of control. I was finishing our closing song and they were still trying to pack people into the worship center. LOVE IT.
35 people STOOD to their feet, giving their lives over to Christ. AMAZING. SIMPLY AMAZING.
We built a 24 x 8 foot Flannel Graph and told the easter story. It was a very creative and powerful approach. STEVE AND CHRISTINA, thanks so much for all your hard work on the creative team side of things.
I am really excited about our new series starting May 3rd called LIFE'S TOUGHEST QUESTIONS. We will be answering questions that all of us rassel with from time to time. You can email your questions to questions@elementweb.net.
Set List:
Happy Day - Tim Hughes
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
Jesus Messiah - Chris Tomlin
Salvation is Here - Hillsong United
loving jesus,
adam
We really sensed God was urging us to pray some specific prayers for easter sunday! God exceeded all those prayers in incredible ways.
1217 people came to element. 2nd service was out of control. I was finishing our closing song and they were still trying to pack people into the worship center. LOVE IT.
35 people STOOD to their feet, giving their lives over to Christ. AMAZING. SIMPLY AMAZING.
We built a 24 x 8 foot Flannel Graph and told the easter story. It was a very creative and powerful approach. STEVE AND CHRISTINA, thanks so much for all your hard work on the creative team side of things.
I am really excited about our new series starting May 3rd called LIFE'S TOUGHEST QUESTIONS. We will be answering questions that all of us rassel with from time to time. You can email your questions to questions@elementweb.net.
Set List:
Happy Day - Tim Hughes
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
Jesus Messiah - Chris Tomlin
Salvation is Here - Hillsong United
loving jesus,
adam
Thursday, March 26, 2009
WWW.ELEMENTWEB.NET
Alright we have launched the new website. However check back periodically. We had to launch pre-mature due to our billboards and mailers being up. There are some graphical things still to update and our media center should go up today! Check it out, we are very excited, let us know what you think!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Sunday AfterThoughts!
Sunday was awesome! There is nothing like a facility that is jammed packed with people. Shoulder to shoulder, can't even move, bringing in more seating, and creating overflow in a lobby. LOL. That explains what happened sunday!
Then 9 people get saved! COME ON CHURCH! I love it. Jeff had them be bold and stand up and the church erupted in tears and praise. It was really powerful!!
This was an awesome opening of our new series Sunday School. In this series Jeff is unpacking some of the major bible stories in a whole new way! Week one was awesome and I am looking forward to the rest. ESPECIALLY EASTER! You dont want to miss what we have planned for easter!
Dont forget that we are moving to 3 services this sunday. The new times are 8:30, 10:00, & 11:30am!
Alright and I promise that there will be a website this week! We have been working hard, hit a few snags, and had a bit bigger project than expected in some areas. But it looks amazing and its coming!! Ill announce that today or tommorow!!
OH YEAH & my creative team knocked it out of the park with our set design this series. Simply brilliant. Great job, very creative. You guys rock.
Alrighty I am off to the gym!
Sunday Set List,
Beautiful One - Tim Hughes
My Glorious - Delerious
Reign in us - Starfield
Hosanna - Hillsong United
----
Adam
Then 9 people get saved! COME ON CHURCH! I love it. Jeff had them be bold and stand up and the church erupted in tears and praise. It was really powerful!!
This was an awesome opening of our new series Sunday School. In this series Jeff is unpacking some of the major bible stories in a whole new way! Week one was awesome and I am looking forward to the rest. ESPECIALLY EASTER! You dont want to miss what we have planned for easter!
Dont forget that we are moving to 3 services this sunday. The new times are 8:30, 10:00, & 11:30am!
Alright and I promise that there will be a website this week! We have been working hard, hit a few snags, and had a bit bigger project than expected in some areas. But it looks amazing and its coming!! Ill announce that today or tommorow!!
OH YEAH & my creative team knocked it out of the park with our set design this series. Simply brilliant. Great job, very creative. You guys rock.
Alrighty I am off to the gym!
Sunday Set List,
Beautiful One - Tim Hughes
My Glorious - Delerious
Reign in us - Starfield
Hosanna - Hillsong United
----
Adam
Monday, March 16, 2009
I HATE YOUR NOISY WORSHIP
Here is a post I did last week as a guest blogger on Jeff's blog. I wanted to add a few more thoughts God has awakened me to, but for those to make since I thought I would first re-post that blog. More to come!!
Over the last few months God has been forming something deep inside of me in regards to worship. For years I have been a Christian, worshipped at churches, camps, conferences, etc. But lately something changed. There is something beyond a band, beyond lights, beyond a stage, beyond hymns, it’s more than a traditional service and it’s bigger than a modern service.
In Amos 5: 21-24 it reads: I hate all your show and pretense – the hypocrisy of your religious festivals and solemn assemblies. I will not accept your burnt offerings and grain offerings. I won’t even notice all your choice peace offerings. Away with your noisy hymns of praise! I will not listen to the music of your harps. Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, an endless river of righteous living!
You must define what worship is. I see it this way. THE GOAL OF WORSHIP IS FOR MY HEART TO CONNECT WITH GOD’S HEART. That’s it! Its not about singing 1 song or 5 songs. 15 minutes of worship or 50 minutes of worship. The GOAL is that our hearts would connect with God’s heart. Alright so, if that’s the goal then what happens next is God begins to give us His heart. My heart should be changed in worship and I begin to get His heart. So the question is, WHAT IS GOD’S HEART? WHAT DOES HE CARE ABOUT MOST! I think its evident that he was passionate about lost people, hurting people, the poor, the lonely, the outcast and the broken. That is who he was around, that is who His heart breaks for. So in worship, if my heart is connecting with His heart, and I begin to have heart change and get more of his heart, and I begin to feel and care about what He cares about. Then I have to ask the question, WHAT AM I DOING ABOUT IT.
See this is where I think Amos 5 is key. WITHOUT ACTION OUR WORSHIP IS NOTHING BUT “NOISY HYMNS OF PRAISE”, or as the message puts it “I’ve had all I can take of your noisy ego-music.”
My goal for worship at Element Church is to facilitate and environment where your heart will connect with the heart of God. I want them to get fired up about what God cares about and leave to change the world. See most of us leave our worship times at church and do nothing, absolutely STINKING nothing. And then God shows us Amos 5. Too many of us in communities across America do nothing. We want the world to come to us and we never become the hands and feet of Jesus. BECAUSE OF WORSHIP the poor should be fed, the needy taken care of, cities given what they need most. But its not just pastors, its YOU connecting with the heart of God and partnering with a passion bigger than you. I love how the message says it:
“Do you know what I want? I want justice—oceans of it.”
This is also why EXCELLENCE is key. Without excellence you become a distraction. Distractions hinder heart-connection. When things are done well, with preparation it actually creates an environment of freedom and flexibility. Lights, Stages, Rock N Roll, music, instruments, hymns, cathedrals, and sprung buildings are all tools to help CONNECT OUR HEARTS WITH THE HEART OF GOD AND CHANGE THE WORLD!
Adam
Over the last few months God has been forming something deep inside of me in regards to worship. For years I have been a Christian, worshipped at churches, camps, conferences, etc. But lately something changed. There is something beyond a band, beyond lights, beyond a stage, beyond hymns, it’s more than a traditional service and it’s bigger than a modern service.
In Amos 5: 21-24 it reads: I hate all your show and pretense – the hypocrisy of your religious festivals and solemn assemblies. I will not accept your burnt offerings and grain offerings. I won’t even notice all your choice peace offerings. Away with your noisy hymns of praise! I will not listen to the music of your harps. Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, an endless river of righteous living!
You must define what worship is. I see it this way. THE GOAL OF WORSHIP IS FOR MY HEART TO CONNECT WITH GOD’S HEART. That’s it! Its not about singing 1 song or 5 songs. 15 minutes of worship or 50 minutes of worship. The GOAL is that our hearts would connect with God’s heart. Alright so, if that’s the goal then what happens next is God begins to give us His heart. My heart should be changed in worship and I begin to get His heart. So the question is, WHAT IS GOD’S HEART? WHAT DOES HE CARE ABOUT MOST! I think its evident that he was passionate about lost people, hurting people, the poor, the lonely, the outcast and the broken. That is who he was around, that is who His heart breaks for. So in worship, if my heart is connecting with His heart, and I begin to have heart change and get more of his heart, and I begin to feel and care about what He cares about. Then I have to ask the question, WHAT AM I DOING ABOUT IT.
See this is where I think Amos 5 is key. WITHOUT ACTION OUR WORSHIP IS NOTHING BUT “NOISY HYMNS OF PRAISE”, or as the message puts it “I’ve had all I can take of your noisy ego-music.”
My goal for worship at Element Church is to facilitate and environment where your heart will connect with the heart of God. I want them to get fired up about what God cares about and leave to change the world. See most of us leave our worship times at church and do nothing, absolutely STINKING nothing. And then God shows us Amos 5. Too many of us in communities across America do nothing. We want the world to come to us and we never become the hands and feet of Jesus. BECAUSE OF WORSHIP the poor should be fed, the needy taken care of, cities given what they need most. But its not just pastors, its YOU connecting with the heart of God and partnering with a passion bigger than you. I love how the message says it:
“Do you know what I want? I want justice—oceans of it.”
This is also why EXCELLENCE is key. Without excellence you become a distraction. Distractions hinder heart-connection. When things are done well, with preparation it actually creates an environment of freedom and flexibility. Lights, Stages, Rock N Roll, music, instruments, hymns, cathedrals, and sprung buildings are all tools to help CONNECT OUR HEARTS WITH THE HEART OF GOD AND CHANGE THE WORLD!
Adam
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Sunday AfterThoughts!
Today I wore flip flops!!
This is my favorite season. I love flip flops. And it was a busting 60 degrees today, so I started early.
We had some hickups this week with the worship team. But they did awesome. Adjusted well. And God was worship. I really felt like today everyone was connecting. I love seeing physical demonstration of what God is doing in peoples hearts during worship.
Jeff closed the Wild Goose Chase series today with a passionate, fire-up, finale. I love being behind a man with so much vision and executing passion for a church and its impact in a city. COME ON CHURCH! Its game time!
We have SO many things happening here at element, there is buzz in the air.
1) We are launching 3 services in 2 weeks
2) We are launching our new series Sunday School
3) We are launching our brand new website by the end of this week
4) We are dropping 40,000 easter eggs from a helicopter April 4th
5) We are doing an easter service in a way I am sure will surprise you all!!
I love this church!
Set List for 3-15-09
Everyone (praises) - Desperation Band
Blessed be your name - Matt Redman
Beautiful Jesus - Kristian Stanfill
Mighty to Save - Hillsong United
It is well
Buzzing
adam
This is my favorite season. I love flip flops. And it was a busting 60 degrees today, so I started early.
We had some hickups this week with the worship team. But they did awesome. Adjusted well. And God was worship. I really felt like today everyone was connecting. I love seeing physical demonstration of what God is doing in peoples hearts during worship.
Jeff closed the Wild Goose Chase series today with a passionate, fire-up, finale. I love being behind a man with so much vision and executing passion for a church and its impact in a city. COME ON CHURCH! Its game time!
We have SO many things happening here at element, there is buzz in the air.
1) We are launching 3 services in 2 weeks
2) We are launching our new series Sunday School
3) We are launching our brand new website by the end of this week
4) We are dropping 40,000 easter eggs from a helicopter April 4th
5) We are doing an easter service in a way I am sure will surprise you all!!
I love this church!
Set List for 3-15-09
Everyone (praises) - Desperation Band
Blessed be your name - Matt Redman
Beautiful Jesus - Kristian Stanfill
Mighty to Save - Hillsong United
It is well
Buzzing
adam
Friday, March 13, 2009
men's advance
Tonight we headed up somewhere between Cheyenne and Laramie to a great retreat center for the first ever Element Church men's advance. This is a very cool location, and a beautiful setting. Tonight an associate pastor from Calvary Chapel shared on the big picture of life. He did a great job. And we just ended the night with the one and only BRAVEHEART. That movie never gets old. We are called to be on the OFFENSE not the DEFENSE. The kingdom of God is ADVANCING. Love it that we titled it the Men's Advance. Grant, Bob, and Ryan did a great job getting this thing set up. I walk in and there is table of automatic 10lb weight gain. lol. They brought so much food. Good thing I worked out everyday this week.
I am very excited about what God is going to stir in our hearts as men this weekend. Its a great time to get to know each other also.
Looking forward to sunday to worship with you all and close our Wild Goose Series.
Advancing,
Adam
I am very excited about what God is going to stir in our hearts as men this weekend. Its a great time to get to know each other also.
Looking forward to sunday to worship with you all and close our Wild Goose Series.
Advancing,
Adam
Monday, March 9, 2009
new post already
its been a while. Life has seemed to be majorly busy lately. I feel like i barely have time to read let alone write.
My latest blog was actually as a guest blog on Jeff's. You can read it here.
Sunday was tough. My mind was heavy and I felt like i was under some sort of attack. Worship went solid, but we had to push thru.
Something exciting on the tech end of things, is that we will be launching our new element church website next week. It has been a long time coming but very much worth the wait. The look and feel will be similar with a much upgraded build and flow. Look for that in the middle of next week. Some cool new aspects of the site will be a detachable video player on the home page of each weeks sermon. In the coming months we will be posting our entire service, worship and all. We are also adding our forms and blogs accessible directly at the site. Ways to join life groups and to volunteer here at element. So, look for that announcement on my blog in the coming months.
Adam
My latest blog was actually as a guest blog on Jeff's. You can read it here.
Sunday was tough. My mind was heavy and I felt like i was under some sort of attack. Worship went solid, but we had to push thru.
Something exciting on the tech end of things, is that we will be launching our new element church website next week. It has been a long time coming but very much worth the wait. The look and feel will be similar with a much upgraded build and flow. Look for that in the middle of next week. Some cool new aspects of the site will be a detachable video player on the home page of each weeks sermon. In the coming months we will be posting our entire service, worship and all. We are also adding our forms and blogs accessible directly at the site. Ways to join life groups and to volunteer here at element. So, look for that announcement on my blog in the coming months.
Adam
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Sunday AfterThoughts!
Starting on Friday night, I began having a buzz and an anticipation in my spirit for Sunday. All day yesterday as we were constructing the set design for our new series, I was so pumped for today. God is up to something at element and I don't understand why I get to be a part of it. I feel so blessed. I have so much to learn.
This morning I got up, just pumped. Again I couldn't wait to start rehearsal. And it went great. And then FIRST SERVICE happened. Man it was rough. Between a broken string, a broken guitar (pickup sounded like it was exploding, headphones that were blown, so i didnt hear anything the entire service, and no metronome, a backup guitar out of tune, and then peaking with distortion, wow. I struggled honestly today. It was tough. After so much anticipation and excitement for everything today, I was discouraged. I went and hid in my office and pouted, "why this, why that". As Nathan and I reflected on how tough it was to continue, I jumped into the psalms to set my heart right. God spoke something big to me during that time, which I think is key for us as leaders:
"I MAKE IT HAPPEN".
"Your cool new set design. Awesome. It helps with what I am wanting to do. Your creative spin on an acoustic set. Awesome. Thanks for changing things up. Your light show, haze, sound tech, motion backgrounds, cool songs, etc. Awesome. It all helps people find life in ME. BUT I MAKE IT HAPPEN. YOU DON'T. ME SHOWING UP IS THE MOST IMPORTANT. Not that everything would go just right although I think its important to eliminate distractions. SALVATION AND REPENTANCE IS THE GOAL. Not a cool set, good tunes, creative guitars. I MAKE IT HAPPEN.
I felt a huge heart check and talked with Nathan and encouraged us in our attitudes.
THEN...
I go to close service and my guitar freaks out again, sounding like it was going to explode. So I dismissed everyone, and Nathan and I just laughed. My friend Brian came up to me and said "REMEMBER WHAT YOU ALWAYS TELL THE TEAM, WHAT ITS ABOUT". He is right I just didn't want to hear it.
WOW.. Sorry so long. Just thought I would be honest about my feelings.
However, 2nd service was moving. No crazing technical things happened and worship was powerful. It was both services, my heart was just right second service.
702 people today. So good.
Love seeing new faces every week and hearing the stories of how they come.
We built a sweet set design this weekend, I will post pictures tommorow.
We stripped everything down and did an acoustic set. Lots of fun. Good job nathan.
Then to top everything off we baptized 8 people tonight. I loved that. It was amazing watching all those people.
Alright I am off to play some "SETTLERS.
Peace out!
Set List:
The Chase is on - Tony Sutherland
Unchanging - Chris Tomlin
Everything Glorious - David Crowder
Yearn - Adam Cruz
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
Adam
This morning I got up, just pumped. Again I couldn't wait to start rehearsal. And it went great. And then FIRST SERVICE happened. Man it was rough. Between a broken string, a broken guitar (pickup sounded like it was exploding, headphones that were blown, so i didnt hear anything the entire service, and no metronome, a backup guitar out of tune, and then peaking with distortion, wow. I struggled honestly today. It was tough. After so much anticipation and excitement for everything today, I was discouraged. I went and hid in my office and pouted, "why this, why that". As Nathan and I reflected on how tough it was to continue, I jumped into the psalms to set my heart right. God spoke something big to me during that time, which I think is key for us as leaders:
"I MAKE IT HAPPEN".
"Your cool new set design. Awesome. It helps with what I am wanting to do. Your creative spin on an acoustic set. Awesome. Thanks for changing things up. Your light show, haze, sound tech, motion backgrounds, cool songs, etc. Awesome. It all helps people find life in ME. BUT I MAKE IT HAPPEN. YOU DON'T. ME SHOWING UP IS THE MOST IMPORTANT. Not that everything would go just right although I think its important to eliminate distractions. SALVATION AND REPENTANCE IS THE GOAL. Not a cool set, good tunes, creative guitars. I MAKE IT HAPPEN.
I felt a huge heart check and talked with Nathan and encouraged us in our attitudes.
THEN...
I go to close service and my guitar freaks out again, sounding like it was going to explode. So I dismissed everyone, and Nathan and I just laughed. My friend Brian came up to me and said "REMEMBER WHAT YOU ALWAYS TELL THE TEAM, WHAT ITS ABOUT". He is right I just didn't want to hear it.
WOW.. Sorry so long. Just thought I would be honest about my feelings.
However, 2nd service was moving. No crazing technical things happened and worship was powerful. It was both services, my heart was just right second service.
702 people today. So good.
Love seeing new faces every week and hearing the stories of how they come.
We built a sweet set design this weekend, I will post pictures tommorow.
We stripped everything down and did an acoustic set. Lots of fun. Good job nathan.
Then to top everything off we baptized 8 people tonight. I loved that. It was amazing watching all those people.
Alright I am off to play some "SETTLERS.
Peace out!
Set List:
The Chase is on - Tony Sutherland
Unchanging - Chris Tomlin
Everything Glorious - David Crowder
Yearn - Adam Cruz
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
Adam
Thursday, February 5, 2009
a scary place
so I started my 21 BEST day challenge. one of those is to work out consistently. I have an ideal weight goal, I am attempting to acheive. IT SUCKS!! LOL. Man are there days that just are lame. But I have to stay committed and focused. I feel so much better when I work out. I feel so much better now that I don't eat fast food and have reduced my pop intake.
This thought hit me today as I was out to get lunch. I was craving so bad the taste of a sonic cheeseburger and a dr. pepper. I remembered what that tasted like. And how much I love it. But I always, EVERYTIME, feel tired and drooggy and horrible after I eat it. I never feel good. But I convinced myself of this: the pain I will endure afterwards is worth the pleasure now. HOLD ON! So then it hit me, DO WE HAVE THAT ATTITUDE TOWARD SIN.
THIS IS THE SCARRIEST PLACE WE CAN BE.
When the pleasure of a moment is worth the pain of a lifetime. We replace the pleasure of sin, KNOWING the result, and become OK with the after effects, a miserable life and a scary eternity. You see, if I never choose to stop eating fast food, it has a bad ending for me. If settle for the pleasure, DEATH is the result.
As I was listening to a new IHOP song called I surrender, I heard the line "YOUR LOVE MAKES IT WORTH IT". I said, "JESUS, cause my heart to find PLEASURE in you because your love makes the PAIN OF STARVING MY SIN LIFE worth it".
And this morning I remember reading James 1:14 in my devotions: "temptation comes from our own DESIRES, which entice us and drag us away. These desire give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death".
STARVE YOUR SIN!
STARVING,
ADAM
This thought hit me today as I was out to get lunch. I was craving so bad the taste of a sonic cheeseburger and a dr. pepper. I remembered what that tasted like. And how much I love it. But I always, EVERYTIME, feel tired and drooggy and horrible after I eat it. I never feel good. But I convinced myself of this: the pain I will endure afterwards is worth the pleasure now. HOLD ON! So then it hit me, DO WE HAVE THAT ATTITUDE TOWARD SIN.
THIS IS THE SCARRIEST PLACE WE CAN BE.
When the pleasure of a moment is worth the pain of a lifetime. We replace the pleasure of sin, KNOWING the result, and become OK with the after effects, a miserable life and a scary eternity. You see, if I never choose to stop eating fast food, it has a bad ending for me. If settle for the pleasure, DEATH is the result.
As I was listening to a new IHOP song called I surrender, I heard the line "YOUR LOVE MAKES IT WORTH IT". I said, "JESUS, cause my heart to find PLEASURE in you because your love makes the PAIN OF STARVING MY SIN LIFE worth it".
And this morning I remember reading James 1:14 in my devotions: "temptation comes from our own DESIRES, which entice us and drag us away. These desire give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death".
STARVE YOUR SIN!
STARVING,
ADAM
Monday, February 2, 2009
Sunday AfterThoughts!
Yesterday was wonderful.
Jesus was lifted high and people are finding financial freedom.
Joe Sangle ended our series 21 on the topic of finances. Helping people become financially free. He did a great job and we have already heard stories of people making steps into financial freedom.
This series really really has the potential to change our lives forever. If we will apply the 5 weeks, then our lives will not be the same. It does us no good if we don't apply the principles. I encourage everyone to pick up the complete "series in a can" of 21. Re-listen to it and make some life changes. So Good. Great job Jeff on putting those messages together and not being afraid to challenge.
I love that as a church we are not afraid of any topic. There are so many REAL LIFE issues that REAL people are dealing with and they are finding freedom in Jesus every week. As Tim Stevens said, "the church is providing answers for questions the world is NOT asking". I love that we get to partner with Jesus in helping people life and becoming free in REAL areas.
Our new series WILD GOOSE CHASE starts next week. Invite people thru this video below. Email it, facebook it, myspace it. LOL.
The Wild Goose Chase from Jeff on Vimeo.
Grab a bunch of rave cards and invite your friends.
May we continue to make HELL less populated!!
Set List 2-1-09
My Savior Lives - New Life Worship
Glorified - New Life Worship
Enough - Chris Tomlin
Pleasing to You - New Life Worship
Everyday - Hillsong United
Let the chase begin,
Adam
Jesus was lifted high and people are finding financial freedom.
Joe Sangle ended our series 21 on the topic of finances. Helping people become financially free. He did a great job and we have already heard stories of people making steps into financial freedom.
This series really really has the potential to change our lives forever. If we will apply the 5 weeks, then our lives will not be the same. It does us no good if we don't apply the principles. I encourage everyone to pick up the complete "series in a can" of 21. Re-listen to it and make some life changes. So Good. Great job Jeff on putting those messages together and not being afraid to challenge.
I love that as a church we are not afraid of any topic. There are so many REAL LIFE issues that REAL people are dealing with and they are finding freedom in Jesus every week. As Tim Stevens said, "the church is providing answers for questions the world is NOT asking". I love that we get to partner with Jesus in helping people life and becoming free in REAL areas.
Our new series WILD GOOSE CHASE starts next week. Invite people thru this video below. Email it, facebook it, myspace it. LOL.
The Wild Goose Chase from Jeff on Vimeo.
Grab a bunch of rave cards and invite your friends.
May we continue to make HELL less populated!!
Set List 2-1-09
My Savior Lives - New Life Worship
Glorified - New Life Worship
Enough - Chris Tomlin
Pleasing to You - New Life Worship
Everyday - Hillsong United
Let the chase begin,
Adam
Saturday, January 31, 2009
www.josephsangl.com
Amber and I just finished with the finance seminar at element with Joe Sangl. I have NEVER heard someone talk about money in such a fun energetic way. I am excited to hear the stories of those who will become financially free. There are so many great resources at www.josephsangl.com. I am looking forward to hearing him speak tommorow at church.
Adam
Adam
Monday, January 26, 2009
Sunday AfterThoughts!
it was a great weekend around here at element church. Brad and Danielle Nyght rolled in late friday night in preparation for the worship team auditions. Saturday we had an eventful day with rehearsals for sunday and rehearsals for auditions. I must say that for our first time doing auditions, it went pretty well. We had a good group of people show and they all did a great job. Thank you to all who came out. It means a lot to me that you would be a part of what God is doing here at element church. Brad and Danielle were an incredible contribution to the audition process, for flow, structure, evaluations, etc. It was a blessing to have them apart of this. I am looking forward to the additions we will make here at element worship.
WOW has it snowed. It started friday and is still going today, monday. Probably a good 6 - 12 inches on the ground. It has been a blast. I love when it snows like this.
We really had a great worship time yesterday. We have made huge headway in our sound. I really feel like its very close to what it needs to be. Brad and Danielle were able to join us for worship, which always a good time. I asked for them to do a complete evaluation on me as a worship leader, and it was so good. They really pushed me in some areas that I feel like are going to help take element worship to that next level. I love learning. I read 1 kings a couple of days ago, which has become a common phrase around here, but this weekend I really felt this. Chapter 3 vs 7, "Now, O Lord my God, you have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn't know his way around." I have a long ways to go but I am humbled to be a part of this team.
Jeff really did tackle probably one of the most uncomfortable topics in the american church. We almost opted out of it, but Jeff pushed thru and delivered well. We had great response, "that's just what I needed to hear", "thanks for being bold", etc. Glad he chose to stick it out. He tackled the issue of self-control, living disciplined PHYSICALLY, mentally, and spiritually and how they all relate.
Brad and Danielle decided to stick around one more day. We had so much fun yesturday afternoon. After eating at Guadala-HOLL-A (curtis's tag for the mexi resturaunt), lol, we hit up walmart for some ingredients. Brad Nyght actually made ice cream out of the freshly fallen snow. I must admit i was blown away. Never knew you could do that. I was a really fluffy version of icecream but tasted amazing. I have a new thing to make now. After watching some office episodes we sat down and introduced the world of LOST to Brad and Danielle. We popped in the first disc and watched 4 episodes. They are hooked, SO GOOD TO SEE!!!
Thats it, we had a great weekend and now its time for a huge monday and a good week of planning exciting things here at element.
Set List,
Counting on God - New Life Church
Sing, Sing, Sing - Chris Tomlin
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
Let it Burn - Adam Cruz
At the Cross - Hillsong
Loving life,
adam
WOW has it snowed. It started friday and is still going today, monday. Probably a good 6 - 12 inches on the ground. It has been a blast. I love when it snows like this.
We really had a great worship time yesterday. We have made huge headway in our sound. I really feel like its very close to what it needs to be. Brad and Danielle were able to join us for worship, which always a good time. I asked for them to do a complete evaluation on me as a worship leader, and it was so good. They really pushed me in some areas that I feel like are going to help take element worship to that next level. I love learning. I read 1 kings a couple of days ago, which has become a common phrase around here, but this weekend I really felt this. Chapter 3 vs 7, "Now, O Lord my God, you have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn't know his way around." I have a long ways to go but I am humbled to be a part of this team.
Jeff really did tackle probably one of the most uncomfortable topics in the american church. We almost opted out of it, but Jeff pushed thru and delivered well. We had great response, "that's just what I needed to hear", "thanks for being bold", etc. Glad he chose to stick it out. He tackled the issue of self-control, living disciplined PHYSICALLY, mentally, and spiritually and how they all relate.
Brad and Danielle decided to stick around one more day. We had so much fun yesturday afternoon. After eating at Guadala-HOLL-A (curtis's tag for the mexi resturaunt), lol, we hit up walmart for some ingredients. Brad Nyght actually made ice cream out of the freshly fallen snow. I must admit i was blown away. Never knew you could do that. I was a really fluffy version of icecream but tasted amazing. I have a new thing to make now. After watching some office episodes we sat down and introduced the world of LOST to Brad and Danielle. We popped in the first disc and watched 4 episodes. They are hooked, SO GOOD TO SEE!!!
Thats it, we had a great weekend and now its time for a huge monday and a good week of planning exciting things here at element.
Set List,
Counting on God - New Life Church
Sing, Sing, Sing - Chris Tomlin
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
Let it Burn - Adam Cruz
At the Cross - Hillsong
Loving life,
adam
Friday, January 23, 2009
big day tommorow
1 more day until element church does its first worship team auditions. We are looking forward to all the talent that will pour in. Brad and Danielle Nyght from the Desperation Band in Colorado springs will be sitting in on our evaluation team. They both have such a strong passion for Jesus and worship, along with being extremely talented. Looking forward to hanging out with them this weekend. They will also be joining us on Sunday morning for worship.
If you are a worship leader looking to do a studio project or looking for someone to create loops and programming for live use, Brad is the man. Check his studio out at www.thebakerystudio.com.
Got to get house ready for him within the hour. See all auditionees tomorrow. Looking forward to worshiping with you all on sunday. Come with expectation and your hearts ready to receive from God.
Adam
If you are a worship leader looking to do a studio project or looking for someone to create loops and programming for live use, Brad is the man. Check his studio out at www.thebakerystudio.com.
Got to get house ready for him within the hour. See all auditionees tomorrow. Looking forward to worshiping with you all on sunday. Come with expectation and your hearts ready to receive from God.
Adam
never to old for the zoo
today amber and I went to Denver with Pastor Jeff and Sabrina. We were filming our PROMO video for our next series that starts in 2 weeks at the DENVER ZOO. It was such a good time. I haven't been to a zoo in like 7 years. We were able to see everything out side, typically i remember all the animals you would want to see would be locked up or inside. We were able to see the lions get fed. Thats was phenomenal. Monkeys, elephants, giraffes, it was so much fun. It was like being a kid again. lol. I am so pumped for our next series. Our current series 21 has been rocking our world and seriously has the potential to change our lives forever, this next series which you will find out about sunday, is going to be a perfect follow up.
We topped it off with an incredible dining experience at the Melting Pot in Fort Collins. A 4 course Fondue experience. Amber and I went to one in sacramento about 4 years ago, and this was a great trip back. What a way to spend a friday.
One last thought that blew me away. The staff new how to assure everyone they were going to have the best experience. You could tell they put a bunch of effort into the entire dining experience. One thing that stood out to me was that our hostess, after sitting us said, oh "julie" will be your server tonight "SHE's ONE OF OUR BEST". It totally made you feel like you were given the best. It set us up to have an incredible experience. So it made me think, what are we doing to help people in our churches experience God in the fullest possible way every single sunday and keep that experience with them all week. We leaned over to listen to the hostess introduce another table to a different server and she said the exact same thing. They were very intentional on having you come back. Are we being that intentional and relevant, providing an environment for unbelievers and believers the same, to want to come back, to want to continue investigating the scriptures and Christianity. Something that will stick with them all week. Something that's different than everything else. See the melting pot will forever be like nothing else. They have targeted their nitch. What is your nitch. Anyways, final thoughts for the night.
Had a blast Jeff. Glad we got to do it.
Adam
We topped it off with an incredible dining experience at the Melting Pot in Fort Collins. A 4 course Fondue experience. Amber and I went to one in sacramento about 4 years ago, and this was a great trip back. What a way to spend a friday.
One last thought that blew me away. The staff new how to assure everyone they were going to have the best experience. You could tell they put a bunch of effort into the entire dining experience. One thing that stood out to me was that our hostess, after sitting us said, oh "julie" will be your server tonight "SHE's ONE OF OUR BEST". It totally made you feel like you were given the best. It set us up to have an incredible experience. So it made me think, what are we doing to help people in our churches experience God in the fullest possible way every single sunday and keep that experience with them all week. We leaned over to listen to the hostess introduce another table to a different server and she said the exact same thing. They were very intentional on having you come back. Are we being that intentional and relevant, providing an environment for unbelievers and believers the same, to want to come back, to want to continue investigating the scriptures and Christianity. Something that will stick with them all week. Something that's different than everything else. See the melting pot will forever be like nothing else. They have targeted their nitch. What is your nitch. Anyways, final thoughts for the night.
Had a blast Jeff. Glad we got to do it.
Adam
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Sunday, January 18, 2009
sunday afterthoughts
We had a great sunday today.
We continued our series 21 with the topic of SIN today. I really felt like worship and the message connected with everyone today. Worship really setup this message thru the lyrics in the songs. Jeff nailed it on SIN today. Very powerful story illustrations. YOU REALLY WANT TO HEAR THIS ONE!!
634 today. I love worshiping with all of you.
Tech team, Andy - Ben - Jason - Nate - Terry - Jerry, you guys are awesome. Seriously thank you for the hours you put into making our sunday morning experience the best it can be.
We announced today that we will hosting a Super Bowl Party AT THE CHURCH on the big screens. Going to be a blast. GO ARIZONA!!
I am very excited about our 1st annual worship team auditions. I know there is a lot of talent in our church and I am looking forward to seeing who God brings us. Remember its this Saturday. Please email or call the church office if you have any questions.
Just got back from ESPN Zone in Denver for a friends birthday. Had a bunch of fun with the guys.
Set List for Sunday the 18th
Happy Day - Tim Hughes
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
The One Who Loves Me - Adam Cruz
My Chains are Gone - Chris Tomlin
Marvelous Light - Charlie Hall
I am Free - Desperation Band
FULL,
Adam
We continued our series 21 with the topic of SIN today. I really felt like worship and the message connected with everyone today. Worship really setup this message thru the lyrics in the songs. Jeff nailed it on SIN today. Very powerful story illustrations. YOU REALLY WANT TO HEAR THIS ONE!!
634 today. I love worshiping with all of you.
Tech team, Andy - Ben - Jason - Nate - Terry - Jerry, you guys are awesome. Seriously thank you for the hours you put into making our sunday morning experience the best it can be.
We announced today that we will hosting a Super Bowl Party AT THE CHURCH on the big screens. Going to be a blast. GO ARIZONA!!
I am very excited about our 1st annual worship team auditions. I know there is a lot of talent in our church and I am looking forward to seeing who God brings us. Remember its this Saturday. Please email or call the church office if you have any questions.
Just got back from ESPN Zone in Denver for a friends birthday. Had a bunch of fun with the guys.
Set List for Sunday the 18th
Happy Day - Tim Hughes
Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle
The One Who Loves Me - Adam Cruz
My Chains are Gone - Chris Tomlin
Marvelous Light - Charlie Hall
I am Free - Desperation Band
FULL,
Adam
Monday, January 12, 2009
worship auditions
Remember if you are interested in becoming a part of the worship team to sign up, pick up an application and chort charts. If you have any questions please email me at adam@elementweb.net.
Looking forward to everyone coming out. Its going to be a good time.
Adam
sunday afterthoughts
awesome day yesturday. 2nd week of 21.
-- Jeff talked about our devotional life in a very challenging way.
-- "why do we call them devotions if we aren't devoted" - so good
-- 670 people today. Lots of new faces. Full room. SO GOOD!
-- You need to know how blessed you are to have such an awesome tech team and worship team (not boasting of myself). They put in so much time to provide you the best worship possible. We have made some huge headway in our sound for that room.
I love being your worship pastor.
Set list from Sunday:
Solid Rock - New Life Worship
We Lift You Up - New Life Worship
Hungry - Vineyard
Better is one day - Matt Redman
Everything - Lifehouse
-- Jeff talked about our devotional life in a very challenging way.
-- "why do we call them devotions if we aren't devoted" - so good
-- 670 people today. Lots of new faces. Full room. SO GOOD!
-- You need to know how blessed you are to have such an awesome tech team and worship team (not boasting of myself). They put in so much time to provide you the best worship possible. We have made some huge headway in our sound for that room.
I love being your worship pastor.
Set list from Sunday:
Solid Rock - New Life Worship
We Lift You Up - New Life Worship
Hungry - Vineyard
Better is one day - Matt Redman
Everything - Lifehouse
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
sunday afterthoughts
sunday blew me away once again.
over 5 people gave their lives to Christ. SO STINKIN AWESOME. It will never get old.
634 people in church. The most we have ever seen at element. I can not believe I am a worship pastor of 634 people. That freaks me out. I have so much to learn.
21 could not have opened any better. SERIOUSLY RIGHT NOW GO TO WWW.ELEMENTWEB.NET and watch this weeks service or listen to the podcast. WARNING!!! It has the danger of changing your life. I am so stoked about what this series is offering people. Already in my life as Amber and I have committed to our 21 and it has changed me. Inside a couple of other commitments Amber and I are limiting our time with TV, exercising with weight loss goals, eliminating pop and fast food completely, and other things. God has designed us to live in self-control. We control our lives and thru this series God is going to empower us to become who he has made us.
We finally are getting our sound controlled. This was by far the best week we have had in our new facility. We flew 2 center speakers and it help disperse sound very nice. We are making a couple of major tweaks this week that I think will help even more. This week felt the most at home for me.
I am doing my first ever worship team audition this month. Make sure if you are interested in auditioning for the worship team that you pick up an application and a cd with charts in our lobby. Brad Nyght (Drummer for the Desperation Band & Producer of The Bakery Studio) and Danielle Nyght (Vocalist at New Life Worship) have agreed to come up to be on the evaluation team for that night. Both of them are great friends of mine and extremely talented. I look forward to them playing a huge role in this.
Set List for Sunday January 4th:
Salvation is Here - Hillsong United
Everyday - Hillsong
Solid Rock - New Life Worship
God Has Come - New Life Worship
The One Who Loves Me - Adam Cruz
-- adam
over 5 people gave their lives to Christ. SO STINKIN AWESOME. It will never get old.
634 people in church. The most we have ever seen at element. I can not believe I am a worship pastor of 634 people. That freaks me out. I have so much to learn.
21 could not have opened any better. SERIOUSLY RIGHT NOW GO TO WWW.ELEMENTWEB.NET and watch this weeks service or listen to the podcast. WARNING!!! It has the danger of changing your life. I am so stoked about what this series is offering people. Already in my life as Amber and I have committed to our 21 and it has changed me. Inside a couple of other commitments Amber and I are limiting our time with TV, exercising with weight loss goals, eliminating pop and fast food completely, and other things. God has designed us to live in self-control. We control our lives and thru this series God is going to empower us to become who he has made us.
We finally are getting our sound controlled. This was by far the best week we have had in our new facility. We flew 2 center speakers and it help disperse sound very nice. We are making a couple of major tweaks this week that I think will help even more. This week felt the most at home for me.
I am doing my first ever worship team audition this month. Make sure if you are interested in auditioning for the worship team that you pick up an application and a cd with charts in our lobby. Brad Nyght (Drummer for the Desperation Band & Producer of The Bakery Studio) and Danielle Nyght (Vocalist at New Life Worship) have agreed to come up to be on the evaluation team for that night. Both of them are great friends of mine and extremely talented. I look forward to them playing a huge role in this.
Set List for Sunday January 4th:
Salvation is Here - Hillsong United
Everyday - Hillsong
Solid Rock - New Life Worship
God Has Come - New Life Worship
The One Who Loves Me - Adam Cruz
-- adam
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Auditions 2009
Pick up an application on sunday morning, or by visiting our office. Make sure to pick up a CD and chord chart with app.
Looking forward to this.
Adam
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