The weekend's almost over

I am not sure if I am glad the weekend's over or not! We seem to have been running here and there all weekend.
We conquered the two birthday parties yesterday with ease, and that went very well. Jordan also went to the "festival" at the Assembly church and had a blast, while her daddy enjoyed the carshow.
While Jordan was at Katherine's, the "other three" of us went to Star City to the Barbeque Shop. We roamed around the Village, picking out furniture we can't afford, and things of that nature. It was muggy out, but still a nice night to walk on the sidewalks and relax.
We went to church this morning, and had a great service, taught by Ryan. I guess I say taught, more than preach, when referring to Journey. (I never noticed that I say teach, a friend pointed it out) I think it's because of the nature of the set up, and of the lessons. It feels more like you are in Sunday school, than being "preached at" which is quite refreshing.
Ryan had us write down our "idols" that we often put before Christ. I wrote four down before we paired/grouped off with others to share and to pray about the things we listed. (I thought of about 40 more later!)
After we "confessed" to each other, we then nailed them to the cross, which was a hugely symbolic gesture.
I think we all came away with things on our minds that weren't there when we got there, so Ryan could say "mission accomplished" quite easily!
I love the closeness of my new church family. It's something I never have experienced, and hope any of my friends that don't have a church home would email me if you want any details on anything.
Or maybe I should just state some things...since I had some people at my former workplace go WHAT? You are going to church WHERE?

So here are some facts:
YES, it is beside Stage.
YES, that used to be a shoe store.
YES, when I say people wear jeans, it is literal. Every Sunday.
YES, there are lots of kids, and NO, yours won't be the loudest one
NO, people are not judgemental
NO, you won't "stand out"
NO, no one will stalk to you make you attend, & they don't beg for your number
YES, you will be greeted with a smile and a hug, if you want it
YES, we are moving to a "real" church building, the one behind BP
NO, it isn't centered on denomination, people there are centered on JESUS
YES, we sometimes sit in the floor, yes, there are instruments, and the band DOES jam
NO, no one will call on you to pray/read/talk/answer questions

and finally, yes it is co-pastored by Jeff Noble (husband of a Noble Photo's owner, Carolyn, father of Sam and Adelyn, and creator of www.monticellolive.com) and Ryan Morgan (husband of Misty, father of Mason and Kate)

We are growing as a family because we are growing as Christians, simple as that. We have many things in common, and many of the same struggles. We are looking forward to this Wednesday's service, where Ryan will be teaching. I hope you join us!