the real deal

I am learner. I like to hear people's opinions, experiences, etc. I believe that you can learn from anyone regardless of their background or beliefs. This desire to learn has benefited me a lot in my short adult life.

So when I began to start a Church, of course I had a great desire to learn from others who were willing to help me. I knew I could find some guys who had been there and done that and might take the opportunity to impart their wisdom upon and care for a "young buck" like myself that had a huge heart to make an impact. Boy was I in for a surprise..................

I know that there are great church leaders with great hearts to help young leaers out there. But for me it was very difficult to find a couple, yet any, who really cared at all.

In fact I was at a session with some church planters about two months ago sharing we are in our journey. I was lectured on the importance of having some experienced Church planters mentor me through this experience. When the lecturing (felt like blasting) was over, I kindly went to about four or five guys who were pastors of "successful" church plants and asked for their contact information. I contacted all of them...............................

no response.

I realized at this point that it was just our inexperienced Church and God. He is enough, but we would love for Him to use someone to guide us.

Then, I met Eric...
Eric is a chuch planter on the other end of our county ( if anyone would be hesitant to help me, this would be him). I met Eric with the intention of one lunch where I would ask him a lot of questions and I had very low expecations based upon my previous experiences. I brought my friend a long who has a heart to plant a church also.

Since that meeting...
Eric has made a commitment to meet with me once a month, his church instantly began helping us financially, and I continually get a "what can we do to help you". He also is providing opportunities for my friend to learn.

Eric is the real deal.

He will probably never read this but his believing in my vision, is giving this 25 year old the confidence that God can use Him to make a significant impact in Crestview and the world.


You can check out Eric's church at www.shorelinechurch.net