southside city church

Update October 2010

2010-10-14T17:48:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to take time to send out this quick update. Life at SCC is amazing! We are growing and experiencing a glorious move of God in our community. Several men and women have yielded their lives to Christ and were baptized. Others are waiting for baptism before the end of the year. We've seen the Lord answer prayer and heal two of our members from illness that was critical. Praise the Lord!

We are preparing for a huge outreach event on October 31st. Everyone is invited to come out for the Fall Festival. 4 to 6 p.m. at the church, 1400 College Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76104.

We've been blessed to have three churches come along in hands on partnership. Greenbriar in Alvarado, Connell and Birdville. What an encouragement to have the support. You'll find them all participating in the Fall Festival with us. Refreshing!

Thanksgiving and Christmas is coming up. SCC will host a huge Thanksgiving Feast on the Monday before Thanksgiving. Come join us for a night of testimonies and praise, giving thanks to God for all He's done. 6:30 p.m. at the church

Thanksgiving night and Christmas night, we will be at Samaritan House providing dinner and the biggest Christmas party EVER! If you are interested in adopting a resident for Christmas, contact me for more information.

The BIG picture! I've been praying with some other leaders of SCC about the possiblity of starting a school for our community. There's more....we are also praying about opening up apartment complexes for the purpose of moving families out of the homeless shelters into more long term supportive housing. Please join us in praying for God's wisdom and timing. If you have an interest in either of these projects, please contact me.

the church

2010-05-18T01:53:00.003-05:00

I woke up this morning at 1:45 a.m. following a very vivid dream concerning the church. For those of you who don't know, Southside City Church ministers to many people who are living with HIV/AIDS and those who are dealing with addictions of all kinds. We are a very "real" church, meaning that we share openly our struggles with one another, believing that honesty before God and others is one of the steps needed in order to truly recover from the devastation sin has heaped upon us.

The dream was so wonderful. We were having dinner as a church as usual, the difference is there was a huge celebration. Some of the men from Union Gospel Mission were standing, sharing their testimonies of how God had transformed their lives. Others were sharing how God had restored their minds. One of the ladies who is HIV+ stood and with tears shared that God had healed her. Everyone stood to their feet and began to clap and shout praises to God.

I woke with tears. It was the most glorious dream. I immediately sensed the Holy Spirit saying, this is what I can do, Darrel. What you have asked for, I can do. BELIEVE ME!

If you pray, I want to ask you to pray with me for our church. Southside City Church of Fort Worth. I do believe. If you've come to the point in your own struggle where you want to give up, please come join us and pray with us for transformation and healing. Believe with us.

If you are part of Southside City Church, I love you with all of my heart.

Darrel

Southside 2010

2010-01-20T22:07:00.003-06:00

We're off to a great start as a church and looking forward to an amazing year of growth and service. Kyle and myself joined two other local pastors in traveling to Burkina Faso West Africa this month in preparation for the Summer 2010 mission efforts there.

The student ministry of Southside City Church is growing quickly.

We continue outreach among HIV/AIDS community of Fort Worth and launched Celebrate Recovery this month. CR will meet each Monday evening at 7:00 at College Ave.

Join us this year on Sunday evenings at 6:00 for worship and 7:00 for dinner.

Fall Update

2009-11-02T12:52:00.002-06:00

If you've been around southside city church lately then you have experienced the great momentum we are seeing in the "near" Southside district of Fort Worth. Lives are truly being transformed as we grow in consistent, compassionate care and community.

The Fall Block Party was a huge PARTY...with over 200 of our neighbors coming out for a night of fun.....everyone took a place of service and made the night a great success.

The student ministry AFTERSHOCK is growing quickly with many upcoming events schedule through the holidays. AFTERSHOCK meets every Sunday night at 5:00 p.m.

Celebrate Recovery is coming to SCC in January. Currently our leaders are meeting to prepare for a great launch. Already there are around 10 folks signed up to participate in our first CR.

Our team returned from Burkina Faso West Africa in October with our own lives changed and a great report of the work happening in Ougadougou.

New Life Groups will begin in the next several weeks. One of our new Life Groups will be for young couples, led by Noah and Natalie Weatherly.

Christmas at Samaritan House is in the making...Michele is planning and organizing for a great celebration. Watch for details on how you and your family can become involved in reaching out to the residents at Sam. House this Christmas.

Sunday, September 6, Pastor Aime Millogo Speaking

2009-08-31T10:59:00.001-05:00

Pastor Aime Millogo, a pastor from Burkina Faso who has been studying in Dallas at Christ For the Nations will be preaching at Southside. We want to invite everyone to join us for a great time of worship and hearing the heart of God for Burkina Faso, through Pastor Aime.

We will share a wonderful meal after worship, as always.

the joy of serving in the "near" Southside Community

2009-06-28T21:20:00.003-05:00

Well there are actually countless joys, but having just completed our first ever VBS as a new church, I want to express some of what's on my heart with you.

1. We didn't have super star activites planned, but the children of Southside had a blast playing ball, simple crafts and especially the SPRAY BOTTLES provided by the Hankes.

2. My family. OMG, I have the most wonderful mom, sisters, brother-n-law 2 nieces, nephew and his fiance' that anyone could dream of. They are so faithful to serve the Lord alongside me....thank you....

3. Our Southside Team is amazing. So gifted and so willing to be available to be used by God in the small things as well as the great things......the Lord is most glorified in your heart of love and serving.

4. The stories....Bible Stories....WoW. Thanks to Ray and Tina and Catrina for teaching the children the love of God.......

5. Names that I cannot pronounce correctly. "near" Southside is a diverse community. I love that our church reflects the diversity of our community. The nations are at our doorstep.

6. Sponsor Churches. Southside is sponsored by Alsbury, Birdville and College Ave. Each of these churches played a significant role in helping us succeed this weekend. Birdville team is our newest partnership...we believe God has knit our hearts together in ministry. Alsbury - we could never thank you enough for the continuous support you offer every week..and this week was no different.

7. People find hope while eating hotdogs on tortillas, chicken on a stick and sausage on a stick.....language barriers were overcome, while sharing the simple meal...and let me say our guys are the best EVER cooks.....come see for yourself.

8. Everyone is welcome and everyone has a part in serving at Southside City Church....thanks to Dan who dropped by each evening and provided hats for our gals...and some of the guys....Dan, you totally rock and we love you.....we love to see you driving up on your scooter....keep coming.

9. Prayers are answered. We asked the Lord for at least 45 children to be impacted through VBS, as the last 30 minutes of the weekend rolled around, the last family showed up with 3 extra children, putting our numbers right on what we prayed for......

10. Come Sunday July 6 at 6:00 p.m. to see for yourself.....bring a heart to receive and a heart to give something away.....you'll be blessed....

Southside City Church Summer Splash

2009-06-15T11:47:00.002-05:00

Great and exciting things are happening here at Southside. Friday through Sunday, June 26-28, from 6 to 8 we will be having our Summer Splash for children which will include, food, games, crafts and music. We'll meet in the Fairmount Park on Friday and Saturday nights and then at the church on Sunday night for a huge cookout and festival.

Friday, July 3rd, plans are underway for a Summer Swim Party for our Southside City Church youth. Food and swimming for all to enjoy. Watch for more details on the way.

Darrel

Celebrating Burkina Faso - Sunday, June 7th

2009-05-25T11:33:00.002-05:00

Sunday, June 7th at 6:00 p.m. Southside invites you to join us for special evening of worship and passion, focusing on what God is doing in the nation of Burkina Faso, West Africa. SCC partners with Heal the World Charity, Inc. in providing support for the SHALOM Primary School, located in the captital city of Ougadougou. Crystal Wilson will be spending two months in Burkina this summer, helping establish Heal the World's English Language Institute.

The evening will include a passionate report on our partnership in Burkina as well as a fabulous meal, prepared by our very own SCC. There will be a silent auction for those who want to purchase items as well as a love offering. All monies received will be used to help build the fourth classroom for Shalom. Our goal is to raise $7500.00.

If you are unable to attend but would like to make a contribution, please contact me at darre@southsidecitychurch.com

Zach D. to share testimony

2009-05-05T11:39:00.003-05:00

Southside City Church is a transformational congregation sharing the message of Jesus Christ through consistent, compassionate care and community. On Sunday night, May 17th you will have the opportunity to hear the testimony of Zach D. Let me just say, what God has done in Zach's life this past year is like shining a huge spot light on the banner of Jesus Christ. You will hear the message of hope and life for all.
Let me encourage you to invite a friend to come worship with us that evening. We will have many guest from our parent church, Alsbury Baptist as well, since Zach has received much of his support and healing through the ministry of Alsbury.
And as always we will have a feast to celebrate together afterward. Zach has requested chili dogs....WE can do that!
If you've never been to Southside City Church, we welcome you any Sunday, but especially the 17th. 6:00 p.m.

Mother's Day - May 10 MAMA'S PIZZA

2009-04-30T11:49:00.001-05:00

In honor of our Mom's and all the women who are part of Southside City Church, the men will be providing dinner Sunday night, May 10th. On the menu: MAMA'S Pizza. The best in town. Only the best will do.

Join us as we celebrate - and bring a friend with you.

Southside Easter

2009-04-12T23:16:00.002-05:00

Southside City Church gathered tonight for an evening with the Risen Christ Jesus. What a night! Our key passage was Luke 24 - focusing on the intimate friendship offered to us by God through Christ. "He loves me". He really does love me. Thanks to Julie for sharing so passionately the love she has received from Jesus and how He has transformed her life. Question being, "have you seen (experienced by faith) the Risen Savior? We pray that you have.
The food and decorations were AMAZING! Thanks to everyone who served so selflessly to make this evening a special occasion for everyone. I'm so blessed by each of you and so thankful for the genuine friendship we all share.

Love,

Darrel

Friendship - Go Deep

2009-04-01T01:34:00.003-05:00

Sometimes close friendships can be viewed as exclusive. We've all been in a room where everyone else seemed to be on the "inside" while we were uncomfortably standing on the "outside" of a coversation or joke or just in general. As believers, we must be diligent to be inclusive. Meaning that everyone should feel important and valued by Christ followers.

I have a friend, John who is amazingly gifted at making whoever he is with feel as though they are the most important person in the room. He truly understands the value of every soul. I've been on the receiving end of this Christ-like friendship and I can only say, "wow". Without knowing it, he has been used by God to open my eyes to be more purposeful in acknowledging others and highlighting their immeasureable worth to God and others.

I also have a friend, Steven. Our friendship is deep and could be viewed as exclusive by some. However, depth in friendship does not necessarily mean exclusivity. Our friendship is deep for a reason. We've weathered disagreement, been very present for one another in times of need and have laughed thousands of laughs at the joys of life, together. I always go back to a point in my life that is by far the most painful. The day that we put my Dad in hospice care, I had to inform my dad that he would not be able to go home to our house for the hospice care, but would have to remain in the hospital. I was so, so grieved, because the thing dad wanted most was to just go home for his last days. I called Steven on the way to the hospital and shared with him the news I had to pass on to dad. I arrived at the hospital, confirmed the details, dad needed 100% oxygen and could only receive that care in the hospital. I walked up to the bed and began to weep, deep, deep sorrow and told dad the news. The last thing dad wanted on earth and I had no power to give it to him....I felt helpless and alone. Dad was so precious, he assured me, "Son, it will be o.k.". I turned to take a chair and there standing behind me was my friend Steven. He left work and came to be with me in my time of deep need. This kind of friendship cannot be quickly gained or manufactured or "put on". It comes with time and sincerity.

What I'm wanting to communicate is that we treasure close friendship, while at the same time placing great value and realizing the potential friendship that awaits us with each person we encounter in life.

Go Deep.

Darrel

Finally an Update

2009-04-01T01:26:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the delay, but we have been wonderfully busy here at Southside City Church throughout the month of March. Along with our Sponsor Church, Alsbury Baptist in Burleson, we hosted a wonderful group of friends from Andernach Germany and also a group of our friends from Dripping Springs, Texas. Two weekends of exciting outreach in the community followed with evenings of worship and celebration was the focus of our time. Southsiders were amazing with our monthly supper club at Samaritan House, also participating in the Joe's Run 5K which benefited our friends at Samaritan House on March 28th. We hosted a Free clothing give away and a Soccer Camp, led by our team from Germany. Steve and Bubba served up some great hot dogs on tortillas and well, a team of painters (if you can call us that) painted exterior windows on the College Avenue Baptist Church building, where we meet on Sunday nights for worship.

We've met many new friends in the community through the month and are looking forward to another great month of serving and celebrating the Resurrection of our Savior, Jesus.

Join us on April 10th for a Joint Worship Service, Good Friday. 1400 College Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76104. 7:00 p.m.

And on Easter Sunday, 6:00 p.m. Resurrection Celebration with dinner following. Same location.

Tuesday nights we will be meeting in the Fairmount Park for fun with the kids and Bible Study, 7:00 p.m. beginning April 7th.

Guess that's all for now.

Darrel

Baptism this Sunday at 6:00 p.m.

2009-01-22T11:44:00.001-06:00

Southside City Church will worship together in a special way this Sunday evening. We will observe the baptism of our brother and sister in Christ, Joe and Julia. Following the service, we will enjoy a tremendous feast of Fried Chicken and all the good stuff that goes with that. Make plans to join us this weekend and bring a friend.

Darrel

from my heart

2009-01-21T14:57:00.000-06:00

Lately I’ve been more and more aware of the reality that we do not know the appointed time given to us by God. Over and over again I find myself thinking of the speed with which life seems to be happening these days. For instance, we just moved into 2009, but we’re already more than half way through the month. What was for a moment seen as time for considering a fresh start, has already snow balled into the events of the year, some of which are already behind us. I’m overwhelmed.
38 years old and looking back I see how many days have been wasted pursuing my own desires, goals, dreams and personal pleasures. Seems I’m learning though that God will use even the wasted days for His glory to be revealed as I surrender today to Him. What matters is today. Does my life today cause others to see Jesus as the supreme Giver of Life? Does my life today radiate Christ?
I’m sensing God’s calling me to be used up – wasted for Him. I recently heard a reference to two young women who were called into the mission field of a muslim nation. Two weeks into the mission, their lives were taken by force. Some believers stated how sad that these two precious lives were wasted. Really? Is that what we would consider wasted? Used up – but how their sacrifice speaks of the unlimited worth and value of King Jesus – that nothing was more valuable to these young ladies than knowing Christ – not even their lives.
I’m sensing a deeper, greater call to the nations. Even more specifically to the lost. To the lost. Those who are living in darkness and without knowledge of the amazing love God has bestowed upon them in the person of Christ Jesus. My spirit is rejoicing in something that I cannot yet see with my eyes, but what I already know by faith in my heart and mind. God is softening the hardened ground of the souls of men who have been so turned off to the truth of the gospel, but are now coming near the time of crying out for a Savior – Jesus.
So boldly I sense that I must go. Be used up in this manner of living my life in a way that points others to Christ. An end to the focus on programs and making people feel better. The pure message of the gospel. As a friend of mine who is in highschool stated this week in an email, raw, base, real, fresh ministry. Simple. Truth. Genuine. Love. Transformation.
If there’s ever been a time in my life when I sense God’s prophetic word being stirred in me, it is now. Send the Light! There are souls to rescue…there are souls to save…Send the Light!

First Supper Club of 2009

2009-01-06T15:13:00.003-06:00

Southside City Church will host Supper Club for Samaritan House on Wednesday, January 14th. The menu is smoked Brisket, potato salad, beans, bread and all kinds of desserts. Let's plan a great night of fun and give aways for the residents. Also, don't forget No meeting at Southside on Sunday, January 11th. We will all meet at Alsbury for the New Year conference starting at 6:00 p.m. Dinner following at 7:00 p.m.

Me Too

2008-12-18T17:11:00.004-06:00

I just finished reading Jesus Wants to Save Christians by Robb Bell and Don Colden. On page 151 in the chapter "blood on the doorsteps of the universe" they quote writer Anne Lamott, "the most powerful sermon in the world is two words: 'me too'."

Me too. When you're struggling, when you are hurting, wounded, limping, doubting, questioning, barely hanging on, moments away from another relapse, and somebody can identify with you - someone knows the temptations that are at your door, somebody has felt the pain that you are feeling, when someone can look at you in the eyes and say, 'me too', and they actually mean it - it can save you. When you aren't judged, or lectured or looked down upon, but somebody demonstrates that they get it, that they know what it's like, that you aren't alone, that's 'me too'.

Love you guys so much.

Darrel

Christmas Party Sunday 21st

2008-12-18T13:41:00.002-06:00

Sunday Night December 21st Southside City Church will share dinner together at Mexican Inn on 8th Ave. Just South of Magnolia. We want everyone to join us. So make your plans to be there at 6:00 p.m., or call us if you need a ride.

EGG Rolls from Heaven?

2008-12-08T14:05:00.002-06:00

Last night about 50 or so folks gathered for worship and dinner - a wonderful time of worship. Catrina's tranformation story meant so much to everyone. It was great to have Jay back with us for a Sunday, along with his parents. AND THE EGG ROLLS! TUNG out did himself making home made egg rolls and spring rolls....the best i've ever tasted. AND WOW to the chicken spagetti from mom and belinda....all the great desserts and oh my goodness, the laughter....

you won't want to miss next Sunday, Dec. 14th. Join us at 6:00 for worship and dinner following.

on the 21st, we will have our Southside City Church Christmas party at Mexican Inn on 8th Ave. Everyone plan on attending....6:00 p.m.

Love,

Darrel

An Amazing First Sunday

2008-11-25T10:31:00.002-06:00

Sunday, November 23rd, Southside City Church held our first weekly worship gathering, meeting at College Avenue Baptist Church building in the "near" Southside district of Fort Worth. We enjoyed a great meal prepared by Steve and Carolyn, desserts and salads from the crew that were amazing! Hearing testimonies from Bobby and Linda, prayer for Burkina Faso with Jennifer and Catrina....it was all so, so wonderful. Zack led us in worship that was powerful and intimate.

Look for pictures to come and plan on joining us this coming Sunday, November 30th for worship at 6:00 p.m. and dinner to follow.

Southside City Church - Sunday Worship beginning in November

2008-10-12T14:53:00.003-05:00

I am very excited to announce that Southside City Church will be launching our Sunday worship gatherings on November 23rd, with a fellowship meal starting at 5:00 p.m. and worship at 6:00 p.m.

Everyone is invited - so mark your calendars for the special evening. SSCC worship gatherings will be held at the College Avenue Baptist Church, 1400 College Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76104. If you exit Rosedale and head West, turn left on College Avenue and head South for a few blocks the church is on the right. Directional signs will be posted so you will know where to enter the building.

Oh What a Night!

2008-09-22T11:18:00.002-05:00

Hopefully everyone is rested after a great weekend of moving and outreach. We estimate that about 85 folks particpated in the community cookout, sponsored by Southside City Church this past Saturday. My guess is Steve and Bubba cooked about 300 sausage on a stick. Lot's of folks from Samaritan House came out for the fun and food, as well as several families and lot's of children from the neighborhood.

Thanks to SSCC team for your hard work and commitment to consistent, compassionate care and community!

I'm posting several pictures here from Saturday.

Darrel

COOKOUT RESCHEDULED DUE TO STORM

2008-09-12T15:29:00.003-05:00

The neighborhood cookout has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 20th at 6:00 p.m. Fairmount Park. Please make note of the change and make plans to participate next weekend. We are sorry for any inconvenience - but hope to meet you there next Saturday. Remember, bring your lawn chairs.

Have a great week,

Darrel Auvenshine

Fairmount Park Cookout - Saturday, September 13th

2008-08-27T10:20:00.002-05:00

Be sure to mark your calendars for our next night of worship at Fairmount Park. We'll gather at 6:00 p.m. in hopes of building friendships with folks in the community. There'll be food and drinks and games for the kids to play - hopefully an open house at the "girls place", (no promises) and a chance to really connect.

The next couple of Tuesday nights we'll be gathering at the park at 7:00 as usual, but will be passing out invitations to the cookout!

A mother's perspective

2008-08-14T10:35:00.002-05:00

I received a note from Belinda this morning, sharing her perspective from last night's supper club at Samaritan house. I thought you all may enjoy reading what she wrote. Thanks for your faithful service to the residents at Samaritan House. Last night was an absolute blast!

Darrel - Last night, as always, was such a blessing to me. I just love being
at Samaritan House with our new friends.

I want to share something that was sooo cool. Hannah and Andi..recognizing
some of the residents by name and giving hugs. Residents knowing their names
and getting hugs. It's awesome. Reminds me of us when we were kids. Mom
and Dad visiting the elderly in our church and the nursering homes. We got
to know those people and love them like our own family and they needed and
loved us back just as much. I'm so thankful that my kids are getting to
experience that kind of love. God is sooooo good. Love you.
Have a great day.
Belinda

A great night in Dripping Springs

2008-08-04T16:21:00.002-05:00

Want to give a shout out to our friends at Church of the Springs in Dripping Springs Texas, south of Austin. Steven, Kim, Michele and I headed out to Dripping after morning worship and enjoyed a great time with Bob and Robbie Cave, Laura and her family, friends, Carol and Brian Burns....awesome....then that evening we worshipped at COTS where I shared about our mission opportunities in Burkina Faso. The church was alive and the Spirit of God brought tremendous blessing. The youth there are on FIRE! Guys and gals, hope to see you again soon.

I'll give a full report on Tuesday night at Lifegroup.

Tuesday Nights and Upcoming Supper Club

2008-07-28T13:23:00.002-05:00

We will continue our Tuesday Night Life Group at Fairmount Park at 7:00 p.m. Make plans to join us soon. Bring something cool to drink and a lawn chair.

Our next Supper Club at Samaritan House is on Wednesday, August 13th. We plan on serving Taco Salad and all that goes with that. We're also looking to provide a special gift for each resident. Mark your calendar and join us. More information will come soon.

Reflecting

2008-07-17T13:15:00.000-05:00

So today I'm in North Carolina at a great conference where people are getting real with God and with one another. It's an opportunity for me to rest and be refreshed as I set aside extended time to be quiet and wait on God. The corporate times of worship have been glorious. And so while others are attending workshops in the morning and afternoon, I'm taking time to process a great deal of what happened in my life while in Burkina Faso West Africa. I'm so thankful for these days away from the normal busy schedule to have opportunity to really consider all that God is doing.
I've thought about the last Supper Club a week ago when our team joined with the Nstep team from Alsbury to provide dinner and friendship for the residents of Samaritan House in Fort Worth and realize more and more that we must continue serving in Christ name those who have such great needs, here at home and also in places like Burkina Faso.
When I return home, I pray that we will have an opportunity to share together face to face.

Darrel

The end of a day

2008-06-01T20:56:00.002-05:00

Hope this post doesn't go too long - as I am quite ready to head home and to bed for the night. It's been a long weekend, a long day. You know what I mean? I'm looking back over the events of the weekend have to say of all the wonderful times I shared with friends, times in worship and hearing the the Word of God taught, the most special time was the couple of hours where I just got alone again with Jesus and heard His pleasure in my life. Have you ever had someone ask you the question, "what's your pleasure"? That's what I found myself asking the Lord this weekend. "What is Your pleasure with me?" Whew! It's a little overwhelming. On one level to really believe that Father God takes pleasure in me. I can't comprehend it. I'm not down on myself, but I do know me pretty well and, well some of you know me pretty well also...and there's definitely reason to question how God can take plesure in me. But I trust HE really does.

On another level, and more so what was happening in my heart this weekend is that God can and will do what He pleases with me. I hit a place of wanting to just return to safety. You know the feeling - vision and call and ministry and obedience is so, so thrilling and frightful all at the same time - I'm a go go go go go kinda guy and then I hit a wall....like I did on Thursday night...I think it was Thursday. I just wanted to retreat back to what is safe and familiar...no Africa trip, no starting new churches and ministries.....so I told the Lord that, and the Spirit responded to me as I lay there in bed, "do you want to go to sleep tonight? or would you like to wrestle through the night?" I surrendered quickly - I really do trust Him with my life and I really don't want to return to "safety" you know....so anyway.....the next morning I woke with a refreshing word from the Lord.....he's opening doors and allowing me and others who are close, to enter into Kingdom ministry here and all over the world. I must walk through those doors. To come to the end of my life one day and say, "I had the opportunity, but chose safety", how sad.

O.K. I hope this makes at least a little sense......and even if it doesn't you get a glimpse into what's going on in this boys heart.

Love yall.

d.

Change of Date for Worship Gathering

2008-05-29T18:23:00.001-05:00

We scheduled a worship gathering for the 14th of June, well that evening several of us will be in Waco for Noah and Natalie's wedding rehearsal...which is on the 15th....so.....we will reschedule for another special time of worship and prayer prior to our team leaving for Burkina Faso West Africa. We leave on the 20th, so watch for an email regarding a time of worship....

American Idol

2008-05-22T09:09:00.002-05:00

O.K. So i started watching American Idol this season for the first time, somewhere around the top 12. Never interested before - I have to admit I was hooked this go round. And so last night was the final night with David Cook who I was personally rooting for) the winner! I was amazed to see the amazing celebration at the end as David sang, "time of my life". Applause, standing ovation, confetti, screaming...it was awesome and I was equally as thrilled for him....and yet I really no nothing about David.....

My heart was a bit overwhelmed on two levels so I thought I'd share those with you this morning. First of all, I immediately thought of the celebration in heaven when one person comes into the kingdom of God.....such as my 6 year old niece Hannah who recently gave her life to Jesus.....WOW! Is there anything greater? I don't think so.

Secondly, I was moved to think of all of the people in my life who mean the world to me.....my family, my close friends, all of those the Lord has allowed me to connect with through ministry and especially those who I know struggle so terribly and all for the glory of God....I want to celebrate all of you today and if I could fill a room with 7000 people all cheering as you take the stage I would do so.....I deeply believe God wants us to celebrate one another more extravagantly and more often.

Upcoming Worship Gathering and Supper Club

2008-05-21T10:06:00.002-05:00

Our next Supper Club at Samaritan house is June 11th. Be sure to set that evening aside. We'll make special plans for the evening, working together as a team to make it a wonderful evening for the residents and staff.

Our next worship gathering is Saturday, June 14th at Fairmount Park. As always, we will gather early for prayer walking at about 5:30, followed by a meal (I'm thinking let's have some watermelon and fried chicken) and then worshipping together.

As you meet folks out and about in the southside community, be sure to invite them to join us.

Have a great week,

Darrel

The sound of rain

2008-05-13T11:51:00.002-05:00

Wow! So i'm sitting here in my office just taking care of detail things, and the storm is blowing in, and the sound of the rain is amazing - it's like relaxation for free - and as quickly as the rain comes, so also comes the refreshing presence of the Lord when we quiet ourselves and stay still long enough to know He is with us.....

Let it rain! Open the flood-gates of heaven.

Worship Gathering/Cook Out Saturday May 10th

2008-05-06T15:14:00.002-05:00

Everyone make plans to join us on Saturday May 10th at Fairmount Park. If you plan on prayer walking, meet at the park at 5:30 p.m.....others will begin gathering around 6:30 to prepare the hotdogs/hamburgers etc. We'll eat at 7:00 and then have a time of worship. Be sure to invite friends to join us....

Fairmount Park is easy to find, from Rosedale turn left on Henderson and just stay on Henderson for several blocks until you come to the park.....

Tuesday Life Group at Fairmount Park

2008-05-03T08:36:00.002-05:00

Starting last Tuesday, we have moved the Lifegroup that was meeting at Kim's apartment, to Fairmount Park. The weather has been perfect, so come enjoy and evening together with friends. Stop by and pick up fast food - and meet us at the park at 7:00 p.m.

Fairmount Park is easy to find. Come west on Rosedale, turn left on Henderson. Cross through Magnolia - the park is about a block south of Magnolia.

Invite a friend to join us.

Darrel

New Friends

2008-05-01T09:03:00.002-05:00

I came away from Samaritan House Supper Club last night with new friends. That's what I was hoping for. Our paths have crossed with some amazing men and women through this connection. Dinner was great - but the friendship was life-giving. By the way, thanks to the great team from Southside City Church for giving it all you got.....we ended up with 20 adults, 3 youth and 3 children serving...love that it was a family thing. I'd like to hear some of your thoughts about the night...so post away....

Who's life will be changed?

2008-04-29T15:54:00.000-05:00

So Wednesday this week, our Southside team will be hosting our first "supper club" for Samaritan House in Fort Worth. SH is a place where people who are infected with HIV/AIDS can live as long as they need a place. It's cool that SH allows outside groups like ours to come in and prepare and serve dinner to the residents. Wondering who's life will be changed by serving dinner? I think the answer came to me this morning - MINE. Isn't that so true - when we think we're the one's serving, it usually turns out that we walk away changed from our experience. Here's a quote from my friend Robbie Cave who is praying for our time at Samartian House tomorrow...I think she sums it up....
Darrel,

Just wanted to tell you guys that I am praying for you and rejoicing with you as you head into Wednesday's dinner with Jesus. This is going to be an emotional time and I am asking the Lord that you will all see the angels that are walking through the building with you and ministering over you and those you are serving. This blesses God's heart in ways we don't have words for. Thank you.
Robbie

More to come

2008-04-28T08:37:00.000-05:00

Morning all! By the end of this week - we'll have things together here so you can read about Southside City Church as well as share your experiences and comments with us.