First Time for Everything

I did something today that I've never done before in my life. I sewed. It was pretty fun, actually. My media director, Byron Mathe, and I are working together to make the stage setting for our Good Friday Service. Even Brad Stephens, our Media Assistant, was in on the action. I am so excited about this service. It being our first one ever, I have no idea how many people to expect. But, one thing I do know is it is going to be a great service. I'll post some pictures here of the finished product late this week. For now, check out the picture Brad took of my first sewing expedition.

Good Friday 2010

It is amazing to me that I have been in ministry 15+ years now and have never been a part of a Good Friday Service. I've planned a couple as projects during my years in seminary, but I've never actually been to one. This year will be a first for me, as well as for Immanuel.

I have been creatively thinking through how to stage such a service. It has been exciting, yet challenging. Once I came up with the look and feel for the service my emotions have been running wild in the planning process. Pastor told me he wants to walk through the 7 Sayings of Christ on the Cross. With that in mind, I've staged it, planned the music, and gotten key people in place. You really have to pay great attention to every detail beginning with when people first walk in the door. What is the setting? What do they see? What do they hear?

Now that I have completed the actual flow for the service I can tell you that you don't want to miss it. If you are in the Southern California area on Good Friday, you need to be at Immanuel at 6:30pm. Again, I have been very emotional just walking through this service in my mind while just planning and creating it. I know that the actual service is going to be so powerful that it will have a great impact on all who attend.

I can't wait. I am so excited for Easter weekend.