The Tampa Project

Diversity Matters

2008-05-22T19:52:00.006-05:00

In Rev. 7:9, there is a picture of heaven where every tribe, tongue and nation is gathered in the presence of God. It is a picture of God's people coming together for all eternity. It is a picture of the diversity of God's people coming together because of him. The question is this: Is Revelation 7:9 simply a portrait of what will be or what could be?

Clearly this is a picture of what will be of heaven. However, couldn't it or shouldn't it be a picture of the church today? We need for this reality to become reality in our churches.

Last month, my wife was a part of one of our worship team training days. She noticed we had some new people on stage. More interestingly she realized our hope was becoming reality. As she looked across the stage she noticed one person was from Nigeria, another from Haiti, another from the Philippines, and one from Mexico. There she was, a one-stoplight-town girl from east central Illinois serving alongside a ministry with global implications.

What an amazing reality! From the beginning, Common Ground has intentionally pursued a multi-ethnic church. It hasn't always been easy and it hasn't always happened, but diversity matters. Diversity is the core to how we live as a church.

Common Ground is now 9 months old. It is hard to believe that the vision of God has become a normal reality in our church, but it has!

By the numbers

2008-05-22T19:48:00.003-05:00

Common Ground is now 9 months old. Wow, did we say that out loud? 9 months old and this has allowed us to truly see who we are becoming.

Like and infant becoming a toddler, we are seeing our personality, interests, and abilities begin to take shape. As we continue to take steps forward, there are some very strong signs of life. We have averaged 120 attenders, had 51 people become members, and seen 10 baptisms.

We continue to be amazed at what God is doing through us and in us. We have much work to do though. These are great signs that God is working and up to something big. We must continue to serve our neighbors and reach out in new and fresh ways.

Mother's Day

2008-05-15T20:08:00.002-05:00

We had an incredible Mother's day. Did you?

Sunday was great because we had so many family members come and support their kids as they sang in service. It was incredible.

We are so fortunate to have o many families connected to our church It is a real testimony to our staff and they way they have reched out and gotten our families connected here at Common Ground!

Great gifts for the kingdom

2008-05-04T21:04:00.002-05:00

This last month Kristi was in a wreck and our car was totaled. Fortunately no one was hurt, but the car could not be fixed.

At the time, we had a mission team here on campus. They heard about our car being totaled and felt compelled to donate their truck to Common Ground. We are fortunate to have people who will step up and help however they can.

This is a picture of our friend Paul Halstead donating "the truck he couldn't sell" to the church. It is certainly an upgrade from my 1994 Grand Am.

Spring Break with CIY.

2008-05-04T21:01:00.003-05:00

We had a chance to take our family to Panama City Beach, FL this spring break. (It was much needed after 3 mission trips over 4 weeks.)

We had a chance to work with CIY, Steve Fee, and catch some much needed family time on the beach. Go to http://www.ciy.com to see what they have in store for 2008!

Final Spring Mission Team

2008-05-04T20:54:00.002-05:00

E91st Christian Church and Seacoast Christian Academy came and served with Common Ground on March 29-April 4.

We were able to give out almost 4,000 water bottles this week and collect another 150 grocery bags full of food for the replenish project for "hunger free" a ministry of East Tampa Christian Church.

Thanks so much for all of your help and service to reach Tampa for his glory!

Spring Fling - inflatables and food

2008-03-28T14:41:00.002-05:00

There was a lot of fun at the Easter egg hunt, but things got really pumping was we came back to the church. All in all, over 300 people were involved on the day and smiles were all around.

As you can see we had inflatables, food, families and a lot of fun. What I love about the experience is 8 new families showed up Sunday and most of them had been at our Spring Fling. Let's see what God does with this momentum!

A special thanks goes out to all the leaders and helpers with the Spring Fling. Our community is getting a first hand look at who we are and what we are about. Thanks for representing Common Ground and Jesus with your best efforts! You are making an eternal difference.

Spring Fling - Easter Egg Hunt

2008-03-28T14:36:00.002-05:00

So we tried our first ever Easter egg hunt at Rivercrest Park. Wow. The community really showed up.

Julie Scott, our Associate to Children and Families worked hard helping us get flyers to all the closest Elementary schools. We also handed out 1500 door hangers to help out with our cause.

All in all, so many things went well and it was a great kick off to the weekend. The Spring fling also continued down on the church's campus and only got better!

RoK Week: Revolution of Kindness

2008-03-14T17:12:00.003-05:00

I am excited about what March 16-23 will bring. We are doing a whole series of servant evangelism projects. Block parties, water bottle give ways, Easter egg hunt, and recruitment for supplies for a local homeless mission.

We are still in need of help with water bottles, candy, and volunteers for Spring Fling. Contact Julie at julies@commongroundtampa.com if you would like to volunteer.

Christ In Youth is bringing a group of students to help us in this endeavor. They will have 15 individuals looking to plug in and serve.

Big Push for Easter

2008-03-14T17:08:00.004-05:00

Over the next couple of weeks, we are making some major pushes to connect our community to Common Ground. Here are a couple of our promotion pieces to hang on doors and give out with our water bottles.

Message series

2008-02-14T18:10:00.006-06:00

On February 3rd, we talked our new series "Jesus Uncensored."It has been so good to see the response in our people. As we address the issues of love, forgiveness, selflessness, and others, God is building a church that looks like him.

Please pray for us a God is bringing new people to work with Common Ground as special guests.
Ruth Reyes has already come to lead worship with us from www.fcc.edu .
Gerson Lopes, pictured below, will be here the 17th of February.
Kenny Beers will be here 24th from www.fcc.edu.

In January, we did a series called "Fresh Start." We had one of our highest attendances as we discussed a fresh start in our lives, finances, relationships, and faith. It was an incredible series that finished with a couple of more baptisms.

January 27th was a day that celebrated a mother and daughter baptism. Both grown adults, came to a decision to be baptized into Jesus together. It was a wonderful way to finish the month.

Christmas Eve: Our very first service

2007-12-27T14:13:00.000-06:00

Common Ground held it's very first Christmas Eve service.

The staff and volunteers cleared out the room and set up tables. The room was decorated with Christmas trees, a manger scene (Created from one fo the broken pews from the former church), and strategically placed poinsettias brightened the room.

Families were encouraged to join in on the family activities and create different elements on their tables. A ton of different desserts and egg nog was served. The room was filled with friends and neighbors!

We showcased the variety of talents of our families at Common Ground. Julie and Mike Scott played our emcees for the night. Bridget Gordon and family came and sang an original song and then shared an interpretive dance. Julio and Krystal Cruz did an interview of a couple of our families to talk about Christmas traditions for different perspectives. Danny shared a short message and the night finished with a great solo by Carlos Cortijo and Mary Lou Harden.

Merry Christmas to all. Thank you so much for making our first Christmas a very special one.

Christmas Weekend: It snowed!?

2007-12-27T14:04:00.000-06:00

What a wonderful weekend - this Christmas weekend. Chris led an acappella worship set and it snowed! Thanks to Big Dog Audio, aka the Hankos, Common Ground had snow on Sunday morning!

We chose to have a combined worship service and enjoyed seeing everyone together. It was like opening weekend. So many new faces, but actually it was just the first time they had met since our people attend 2 different services.

We had one family bring some extra goodies from "Toys for Tots" and spontaneously share with the children of Common Ground. We are thankful for the generosity of the of all the families - both volunteer and staff - who made this weekend an extra special weekend.

Community Concert is a success

2007-12-14T19:20:00.000-06:00

Tonight the Sunshine Brass Orchestra performed at Common Ground. Roughly a 30 piece band came and played for the South Seminole Heights Civic Association.

This was our second community event hosted in our facility. We have begun a partnership with the civic association and now host their meetings and special events as needed.

There was a dinner at 6:30 PM and concert that followed at 7:30 PM. The concert was filled with traditional carols and chorus - everything from Jolly Old St. Nicholos to O Holy Night. One tribute was a suite of Canadian choruses.

The highlight of the night was a version of "What Child is This?" The vocalist was amazing! We were fortunate to have such a talented group come to Common Ground.

Thank you SSHCA for coming and hanging out with us.

It's Christmas Time and It's Raining?

2007-12-14T19:08:00.000-06:00

As I sit here this evening I have been surfing the web and checking out the weather up north. Today was 83 degrees here in Tampa, but in Indy it was 31 and felt like 23.

Everywhere you drive here there are marks of Christmas. Inflateables in the front yard, reindeer on the roof, and a manger on the porch. Not at my house, but a few houses in our neighborhood. But one thing is lacking. It's snow.

For the first day in weeks, we got some rain. But rain is not snow. It's too wet to pack, to fluid to hold, and too warm to freeze.

Oh well, guess we'll have to go to the beach to find white ground. Like my friend Dan always says, "I've never had to shovel sand to get my van out to go to work."

Party In the Park

2007-12-14T19:03:00.000-06:00

On December 1st, Nolan English the Associate Minister of Community Impact, lead Common Ground on a day of service.

The beginning of a new food pantry were started, new shed was put up in place of the old one, a little bit of cleaning and repair work was done, and our portable building was repaired.

All the work was provided by Common Ground and friends of Common Ground - Church at the Bay here in Tampa and Tomoka Christian Church in Daytona, FL.

Thanks to all who helped make that day possible.

Baptism Sunday turns into a weekend

2007-11-04T18:49:00.000-06:00

Baptism Sunday was a great success. 8 different individuals chose to obedient and follow in the steps of Jesus through baptism.

What an outstanding day! We had scheduled the baptisms to be on Sunday but had a chance to baptize one of our own early on Saturday. It was great to experience God's kingdom growing as He continues to prepare for us a place where every tribe, tongue, and nation can belong!

Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support. Just another day in God being a great God!

By the numbers

2007-11-03T12:25:00.000-05:00

Some of you have wondered how we are doing. Though numbers do not determine our success they help us get a handle of what kind growth and potential we have as a church. Here a look at our first 2 months of information.

This information is from the connection card that have been filled out since Sept. 9th, 2007.

1. TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS - 157
2. NUMBER OF FIRST TIME GUESTS - 244
3. NUMBER OF NEW MEMBERS - 34
4. NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN GROUP LAUNCH - 17
5. TOTAL NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN OUR ROSTER - 255
6. NUMBER OF CHILDREN ON OUR ROSTER - 64
7. 8 Baptisms as of Nov. 4th!

God is doing a great work here and I am so glad we came to start this new work!

The Fall Festival Comes Together!

2007-11-02T09:57:00.000-05:00

The Fall Festival is our Halloween alternative to our community. We had partnered with Broward Elementary in handing out flyers to our local students. Approximately 300+ children and parents attend from 6:00 - 8:30 PM.

It was a beautiful night and lots of new friendships were formed. It was good we ended when we did. The later it got - the rowdier it got.

Thanks to everyone who supported and helped make this night a huge success! Let's pray they all show up on Sunday now too!

Family Fun Night is a success

2007-10-12T07:14:00.000-05:00

We are so fortunate to have a great staff. A few weeks ago we saw a new wrinkle of our staff's greatness when Julie (Klunzinger) Scott hosted the first family fun night. Parents and children attended a night of pizza, movies, competition, and fun.

Almost 50 people attended. What we loved the most was the chance to begin to introduce our families to other families. Goofing off, laughing, and sharing stories allows us to go from neighbors and guests to friends and eventually family.

If you are in the area, make sure you make plans to attend our Fall Festival on Oct 31st. God is doing a great work and we are so fortunate to get to be a part of Common Ground!

Building Progress

2007-10-11T19:35:00.001-05:00

Much work has gone into the church building and it is almost complete. Some rooms are a major improvement, but may need another coat of paint. Landscaping has been put in, but we still have a few more to do and the mulch needs put into place. The exterior of the building has had a great facelift. We do still have areas that need to have a fresh coat of paint added and some paint still needs scraped.

The truth is, once you have a building you are never quite finished. For us, we are thankful for that. Our home base and ministry center has been a great tool already.

We continue to say thanks to those who have financially supported us and to Central Christian Church for providing this facility for new kingdom work!

iDesire makes a great impact

2007-10-10T20:25:00.000-05:00

Our opening series to launch our worship services with was called "iDesire." Innate in all of us are some common values, general yearnings we all have about the world, life, and society.

The series had a great connection. Our opening week we used John Mayer's tune, "Waiting on the World" to discuss how we would like the world to change. Week 2 we talked about compassion and how we are to create a revolution of kindness. That week we were a part of a bay area event called "Carefest" through Somebody Cares Tampa Bay. Week 3 we talked about how we all value community. We interviewed Julio Cruz and he shared about our desire to implement community groups for everyone. The final week we talked about our character is founded in love. We interviewed Nolan English about his time in New Orleans post-Katina and how Common Ground will live out love in the local community.

What an awesome 4 weeks of worship services. We are seeing transformation and connection happen through the lives of those who attend. God has been so good to us. This is so much fun!

Family Values = Core Values

2007-10-10T20:16:00.000-05:00

For the next four weeks, we are teaching a series called "Family Values." Every family has a set of values. Some are spoken, some may be written, but one way or another they are passed on to other generations.

What we value defines how we invest our lives. For Common Ground, our values should express how we desire to be known and recognized. Our four values are best exprienced in our personal relationships.

Values:

1. Live Graciously: Every person matters and all people need to belong to something greater their own life. We all come from a life that is lost and broken, but God calls all people to life found in him through Jesus as family.

2. Love Authentically: Loving relationships are the evidence of the reality of God. Our love for God shows in the way we love others. The highest honor of love is to love and be loved from an authentically pure life.

3. Learn Continually: Life is best learned together. God has written His story through the Bible. By studying His word and living it out together, we continue to live out the message of God as family.

4. Lead Sacrificially: Jesus exemplified our model for leadership and the church today shares that model in serving the world. Therefore, sacrificial leadership first in the home and then in the world.

Hoping for more of the same

2007-09-19T14:28:00.000-05:00

We were very fortunate to have the launch that we had on Sept. 9th. It is hard to believe, after moving here with only my family, that God has birthed this church into existence. Yet, it was exactly what we had prayed for.

We prayed for a healthy, vibrant and new church. While we had no idea who would come or what this would look like, and yet it happened. God showed up and delivered a new church to Tampa.

We hope and pray that God continues to do just that - show up and deliver some more. Our hearts are not satisfied and there so many to reach and so much work to be done.

Continue to pray that we stay out of God's way and join him when he is "up to something new." May God bless and keep you this September.

We made the news

2007-09-16T21:02:00.000-05:00

If you haven't seen the article that was in the Tampa Tribune, check this link below.

http://southtampa2.tbo.com/content/2007/sep/15/st-church-offers-common-ground/?news

It is a great article. I hope we can find ways to get back into the press some more. Things are going better than we could imagine.

God is good.

5, 4, 3, 2, 1, .... and launch!

2007-09-09T19:38:00.000-05:00

Today was a great day! We had no idea what to expect and frankly - we had little sleep because most of us were up thinking about it.

We got to the building at 8:00 AM. The band warmed up, the coffee was brewing, the building was in place, and here came the people. 255 people came and made a priority to be in worship with us.

There was a great attitude of worship and our community matched our vision - a multi-ethnic urban work. It is clear God has us here to do more than repair a facility, but restore a community.

Thank you to all the people who were in prayer and supported our ministry. Don't leave us now - however. It takes a village to raise a child and the church universal to give stability to this new baby church. Keep us in your prayers and stay connected. We need you know more than ever.

Snack Attack a big hit!

2007-09-02T20:35:00.000-05:00

What is a "Snack Attack?" We'll it usually involves 4 people, one van, and a boat load of Krispie Kreme Donuts. (Even if you aren't hungry, you will be!)

Common Ground Staff and Family (Julie Scott, Julio Cruz, Nolan and Monica English) have been bombarding almost 100 local businesses with donuts. We put a stick on it that basically says "hello and thanks for doing what you do" from us.

It is hard to believe some businesses actually turn this down, but they do. None the less, we have been very pleased to spread some fun around Tampa.

Lunch on us is a great success

2007-09-02T20:11:00.000-05:00

We met today after our final preview service to go serve our local community a free lunch. Over 200 bottles of water, 15 12 packs of pop, about 150 bags of chips, and a ton of hot dogs and hamburger were served. We anticipate about 250 people were served at Mega Supermarket off Nebraska - north of Martin Luther King.

We met Chuck - a former southern gospel singer. Eric and Samuel, two new attenders jumped right in and showed they have a real gift for evangelism and encouragement.

So many hands were shook. I must have introduced myself a hundred times.

What is "Lunch on Us?" we partner with local businesses or apartment complexes and to provide lunch for them. This provides us a chance to prove trustworthy with our business owners and engage our community in a neutral format.

Obviously most people are shocked when you give them something that is truly free. We had a few lines for quite sometime and many people got to hear about Common Ground. There was a promotional piece int he bag about us.

It was a great time. Thank you to our Nolan English for lining this up and connecting us with Mega Supermarket.

Last Week's Service

2007-08-26T06:59:00.000-05:00

The doors opened and people came into the building. That was our prayer. Friends and family and local neighbors attended. It was a great run through.

Sound, lights, transitions - all came off well. Here are some notes on the day.
Julie did a great job with her welcome and kicked us off with a lot of energy.
Chris followed with a great music set and the audience responded with applause.
I spoke and frankly was pretty nervous, but only a few noticed.
Nolan gave a strong communion meditation.
Julio gave announcements and wrapped up our time of offering.
John Meisenbach - Sr. Minister at New Beginning Christian Church gave a word of encouragement as we prepare to launch.

All in all, our goal was to communicate that the local church is the emergency room to the world. I think God was honored in all that was said and done. Can't wait to do this weekly!

Things are changing

2007-08-23T09:02:00.001-05:00

When you sit where I sit, you wonder will it ever get done. The answer I have come to believe - true or not - is "Yes, it has too."

Over the last two months we have really moved from being a destructions zone to a construction zone. The sound works, lights are hung, paint is being finished, and frankly I am humbled by the gift given to our work. Central Christian Church took a step of faith by leaving this legacy through a building.

I can't wait for you all to come and see hwo things are changing!

Signs, signs, every where a sign

2007-08-23T08:57:00.000-05:00

Common Ground signs are going up around the community. We are in the process of securing billboards and yard signs. This is just one example of a billboard on MLK just west of Raymond James Stadium facing east.

Our 50,000 household mailer goes out this weekend and two more will follow in the weeks to come. Sounds like we are getting close to launching!

Sound check anyone?

2007-08-19T07:07:00.000-05:00

We are really fortunate to have a good tech team and praise band already. What do you think of the place? Pretty cool - huh?

What a mess!

2007-08-19T07:04:00.000-05:00

Well we worked as much as we could on Saturday, but it seems there is a big mess in our facility. You'll have to see how much we cleaned it up and got it ready!

Central Christian Church hits the News

2007-08-07T16:01:00.000-05:00

Our mother church, Central Christian Church was in The Christian Standard this last week. Click the link below to see the full article. We are forever indebted to the legacy of Central Christian Church.

Christian Standard - How One Church Is Leaving a Legacy

Also click on this link to see John Meisenbach's article about his church's merger and process.

Christian Standard - Two Became One: The Story of a Florida Church Merger

Welcome to Kid City

2007-08-07T14:04:00.000-05:00

Look at all the work. Emilie's magic touch has transformed our fellowship hall into a children's village known as Kid's City.

We are weeks away from our first services and there is a lot to do. Some of the updates that will be seen is new carpet and flooring the entire children's classrooms. There will be new drywall, paint, and ceilings in most of the rooms. Also a newly designed nursery with crib room, cabinets, and gliders. Last of all the Kid City has a new stage coming in and a post office with it's own mail box.

You need to come and see the transformation!

Launch Dates and Preview Services

2007-07-23T09:14:00.001-05:00

As we near August, we have realized that we have some details that must be wrapped up. Our team is now on campus and our events are starting to come together.

It has been a great summer. We have enjoyed the mission teams who we able to help us set our foundation. We have enjoyed seeing Emilie’s artwork take shape in our hallways and children’s area. Now comes the nitty gritty and wrapping up all those loose ends.

The construction projects have slowed, as we have had to reroute some of our needs. We have also begun to really revamp some more servant evangelism projects.

Therefore, we have decided to make certain dates concrete and draw a line in the sand.
• We are pleased to announce that Common Ground will launch our 1st preview service on Aug. 19th. Services will be at 9:30 AM with servant evangelism projects to the community to immediately follow at 11:00 AM.
• We are also pleased to announce that our Grand Opening to the community will be Sept. 9. Services will be held at 9:30 AM & 11:00 AM with childcare provided at each service.

Please make plans today to join us as we begin. God is doing a great work here in Tampa. I believe the intention of our hearts and giftedness of our team will help transform Tampa and we “pursue life as family through Jesus.”

More Building Progress

2007-07-01T15:38:00.000-05:00

June 28 - July 1 marked another work trip. Harvest Christian Church from Gainesville, FL did some drywall and painting for us. All in all a lot of work got completed. About 12 people came and prayed over the facility while working. Many of them took time and wrote their prayers on the walls before they were covered with drywall.

I have been amazed how God has used different friendships from the past to make things come together. This partnership really came together due to Joel Searby - an old friendship from IL. He was a basketball camper from LCC. He has grown to be quite the man and good friend in the process.

Thanks to Joel and Jen and all Harvest Team for days of hard work and the prayer for our work.

Our First Devil Rays Game

2007-07-01T15:30:00.001-05:00

What a night! We have to start by saying thanks to Colleen Hanko for a wonderful night. She gave enough tickets for my family and our Community Life Pastor's family to go to a Devil Rays game. Thanks Colleen for a great night out for me and my family!

Okay - now for all of you who didn't go. We got to sit right behind home plate about 16 rows up. The view is incredible and for a dome, it is a nice park. (Sure beats sitting in the rain or humidity.)

The home team lost, but the boys had a great time. We spent our life savings on cotton candy, peanuts, and a Pepsi. Later that night we went to the sting ray tank and pet the sting rays to cap off a wonderful night.

It was a great time. I could make that a staple of my evenings.

The Building Progresses

2007-06-20T20:33:00.001-05:00

We have had both a mission trip and work day over the last couple of weeks. Much of the work has come along and the building is taking shape. I have been pleased to see the progress provided through the sweat and labor of youth ministries and local churches.

As you can see from the pictures, we have begun to paint the children's area. Tile has been laid in the lobby and much of phase 1 is done. (The bathrooms, basic flooring, doors, and storefront.

Come by on a Wednesday night for Common Ground Connection at 6:30 PM to see how we are progressing towards our launch date.

Friday Night Cookout Finds Great Success

2007-06-20T20:29:00.001-05:00

On Friday night June 15th, we held a cookout at Waterman's Crossing, an apartment complex near the church. Over 200 people were fed. We had a chance to hang out with many families and many students who came and attended our "Riverside Kids" event during the week through our mission trip.

It was a great time, but our heart strings were tugged as so of the children begged us not to go. Many hungry stomachs were filled and smiles could be seen every where. What a great time of connection and fun.

Thanks to Greenwood Christian and Life Spring Christian for their work with us.

Mission Trip # 2 - More Progress

2007-06-20T20:25:00.000-05:00

June 10-17 was our latest mission trip. 30 people came from Greenwood Christian Church in IN and Life Spring Christian Church in Cincinnati, OH. We spent the days doing work around the facility and community. In the evenings, we did a youth outreach at a local apartment complex.

What would the average day be like?
7:00 AM - Showers open
8:00 AM - Breakfast
9:00 AM - Devotions and worship
10:00 AM - First work shift
12:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - Second work shift
4:00 PM - Clean up for supper/ Prep for outreach event
5:00 PM - Supper
6:00 PM - Pack up and head to apartment complex
7:00 PM - Outreach event
8:30 PM - Pack up/ head back
9:00 PM - Snacks Debrief
11:00 PM - Go to Bed

It was a great week and we owe a ton to these to ministries getting so much accomplished.

Two new staff coming aboard

2007-05-31T20:05:00.001-05:00

We are excited to announce two staff members are in process of coming aboard.

Associate of Community Impact: Nolan and Monica English will be joining our team later this month. Nolan, who has played football at University of Louisville, served a faithful military career, ministered in New Orleans and recently received his MA in counseling from Beacon University, is excited to join our team.

He will oversee our missions, both local and global, empower our community groups for ministry with our neighborhoods, and implement community programs to help empower our community.

While serving in New Orleans, Nolan implemented ministries to help young people receive their GED and a ministry called "Clothes for Business" which helps young men who are release from prison find jobs.

Associate of Community Life: This young man and his wife must remain nameless until he receives his final papers for approval on his visa. He is fluent in both Spanish and English and is a great teacher.

While this young man is a great speaker, he will mostly use his gifts to develop community groups, connect new members, and provide a process for people to come to maturity in Christ.

He served several years in Central America as an interpreter for an orphanage while pursuing a bachelors in business. There he met his now wife and they decided to attend Ozark Christian College where he has received his Bachelor's in Theology. He has also been preaching weekly in a small church in Missouri.

We pray all of his paper work is finalized and be able to start by July 1.

Both men will be attending camps and VBS programs to help raise funds for The Tampa Project this summer.

Building Update May 23

2007-05-23T11:00:00.000-05:00

What's been going on over the last few weeks? A lot.

While we continue to ride the ups and downs of construction, things are going well. Spectrum, our contrating company, has gone out of their way and is doing a great job. They have moved forward in the bathrooms and the paint is going on the walls. The audtitorium is continuing to be worked on each day. A new sound and tech booth is being installed as we speak. Big Dogg Audio is overseeing this project and doing a great job.

We will finish up a lot of our work in the first week of June. After that, a lot of painting, drywall, cleaning, and landscaping will be taking place through mission groups and teams from local churches.

Thank you for your prayers in the process. We are only a few months out from starting. I can't wait to see the construction wrap up so we can make our #1 focus our people.

What a mess!

2007-04-29T08:42:00.000-05:00

A lot of work has begun on the building. The bathrooms have been framed and the plumbing has been installed. The workers have done a great job and are working really hard to get as much done as quickly as possible.

The air conditioning units are being intsalled as well. After a couple of delays and some minor obstacles, the air conditioners are going in and should hopefully be wrapped up in May.

Praying for staff

2007-04-29T08:13:00.000-05:00

We are currently looking for some full and part-time staff. We are waiting to see who God brings first rather than trying to force our hires. Here is who we have chatted with and their profiles.

Creative Arts/ worship: She is a graduate of the University fo Florida and is a piano major. She has an incrdible gift of music, but a greater heart for the oppressed. Her family comes from a church planting background, so she understands the need. She is of a southeastern pacific island decent and gives us a real creative edge when it comes to the arts.

Community Life/ Hispanic Outreach: He is a former translator for a mission in Honduras. He will be a recent graduate of Ozark Christian College and has been married for a few years. His gifts are administration and teaching so he is an automatic fit for the development of our small group ministry. I heard him preach, in english, and he is an outstanding speaker. He is of hispanic decent and has married an american citizen. Currently we are seeking advice about the immigration process, but are close to hiring him.

Community Impact/ Urban mission: He is currently working in New Orleans providing resources and ministries to empower the community. His gifts fit perfectly for mobilizing small groups and teams for ministry while creating ministries that empower our neighbors. Some of the ministries he has created is a GED program for people in New Orleans and providing clothes form men who recently get released from prison to assist them in getting jobs. He is an African American man with great gifts in administration and implementation. He and his wife have been married for over two years and are currently pursuing support.

Creative Arts/ Facility and Children's: She is a an artist with a keen ability to make paintings that embrace an urban environment. She would design the walls and rooms of our facility to express the decor and historic nature of Seminole Heights. Some of her paintings have been bought by rap artist Kanye West and Eryka Badu has some of her paintings for an event she is doing.

All of these people may help us side by side or from a distance. Either way God has brought them to us through friends and family. We are continuing to pursue or fund-raising to help provide the staff here that God truly needs.

We are so thankful that God has brought so many options to us. Many people struggle with finding the diversity they desire, yet God has filled our table beyond our wildest dreams.

She belongs with us

2007-04-09T15:54:00.000-05:00

We are so excited that Julie Scott is going to be joining our team. Julie is a former student from Connection Pointe Christian Church in Brownsburg, IN. There she was a student leader and comes from a great family.

In the last year, Julie has graduated from Anderson University, gotten married to Mike Scott - a wonderful guy, and been teaching at a local pre-school.

Julie is gifted with the creativity and spontaneity of her mother and the leadership and vision of her father. She has been a follower of Jesus since her childhood shows wisdom beyond her years.

We look forward to seeing Common Ground transform the world through Julie's leadership as she serves as the Minister to Children and Families.

New site and new logo

2007-03-29T08:51:00.000-05:00

This last month a lot of work has gone forward to get a few more items moving.

Recently we have launched our new web site and landed on a logo for our new name. The churches formal name will be Common Ground Christian Church. We will be known as "Common Ground."

After a lot of work we settled on a direction and logo that would portray our desire to be a multi-ethnic church creating one culture in Christ. The graphic above is the rough draft and will be finalized soon. Let me know what you think about it.

Also, feel free to check out our website at www.commongroundtampa.com I hope you will see our heart for the lost and our vision to build a community for God.

Clean slate, works dates, and gathering a crowd

2007-03-29T08:50:00.000-05:00

Clean Slate: Wow. The lasting work of Sherwood Oaks Christian Church is amazing. I walk through the facility and realize that these students created a clean slate for us to step forward on our construction. No single group has made such a significant contribution to date. But there gift has inspired others to join in and make a difference.

Work Dates: Our first work dates was about preparing the building for the students who were coming to spend the week in a mission trip with us. Though not everyone was able to show up, much cleaning and prep work was done.

Our next one has a lot of momentum behind it. First Christian in Clearwater,Northeast Christian from St. Pete, Central Christian in St. Pete, and former members from Central here at Tampa are coming to serve. For more info go to www.commongroundtampa.com

The next work date is scheduled for March 31 - 9:00 AM with lunch provided.

Gathering a crowd: I am excited to meet April 1st with some of the neighbors and former members of Central Christian Church. If you are interested in more information, click here.

I would love to see you there. Small groups will be launching in April and much of the launch team will be formed from dinners and events like these.

Looking back on February

2007-03-19T09:29:00.000-05:00

February was a good month. We have had some family come to town, met face to face with several churches, and work began on the facility.

It is hard to believe, but we are 5 months from the launch of our new work. Small groups will start next month with a young adult group starting first and then an adult group starting second. We have our first BBQ at the Hankos in St. Pete on March 28th and a dinner for former members/ attenders of Central Christian Church on April 1.

Where can you get information about these events?

Well - let me be the first to introduce you to the name of our new work. The church will be formally called - Common Ground Christian Church, INC. (That's as it would be seen on all legal documents.) We will go by Common Ground. We have offically launched our new website.

Go to www.commongroundtampa.com to see who we are.

As far as family, we had a chance to hit the zoo and have some fun. Ricky is settling into school and has taken his FCAT testing. he signed up for youth football as well and will be playing for the cardinals - the local team by the church. Caden is doing well too. He is attending some library classes and making friends. Brody is growing more and more into his personality.

Kristi and I are great. We are excietd as this next month we will get to attend the National New Church Conference in Orlando as a family. Hard to believe we are 2 months into living the dream.

Pray for us as God is growing us and the work in ways we could never imagine.

Mission Trip # 1 is a great success

2007-03-19T09:12:00.000-05:00

The first mission trip came off with great success and no major injuries.

Sherwood Oaks Christian Church - formally of Bloomington, IN, brought 7 adults and 27 students to our rescue. Only a few bites from fire ants and one hurt foot were the major injuries.

So what all got done? Here is a basic look at there week.

1) Paint hallways and classrooms on the north side.
2) Clean out office areas.
3) Remove all furniture and stuff into fellowship hall area.
4) Clean facility.
5) Remove and clean up landscape.
6) Levelize stage and repair wall.
7) Check the baptistry.
8) Clean bathrooms & Kitchen.
9) Unhook all pews.
10) Replace light bulbs.
11) Basic demographic work to our community.

They got all of this done and more. The students also had some fun too. The went to Madera Beach and Clearwater Beach. They attended Relevant Church in downtown Ybor City. Oh, and they finished the week with a trip to Busch Gardens.

All in all - we owe these students a huge thanks. Without them, we could not be where we are today in regards to the facility and the project.

THANK YOU SOOOOOO MUCH SOCC!

Destruction is upon us.

2007-03-14T12:25:00.000-05:00

The destruction, or demolition as the contractor calls it, has begun. The bathrooms by the lobby have been torn down so they can be expanded. As you can see, a lot of work has been done. Permits are being wrapped up and we hope to begin the construction of the new bathrooms and new air conditioning units.

Please pray for us. 4 of the airconditioning units need replaced. This is an expense of $75,000 - $100,000. Though we had planned on replacing 2 of them originally, the other 2 are were not in the original plans. This has caused us to step away from some of the remodeling and updating we had planned to do. Oh well, we all agree air conditioning is very, very important for Florida. Especially for me. (Danny)

On the road again

2007-02-19T09:55:00.000-06:00

I will be hitting the road soon to help raise support to hopefully partner with local churches. This is always a challenge as I need to be away from family to accomplish these tasks. I would like to ask for your prayers as I travel and speak in the weeks to come.

Feb. 21: 10 AM Local YM in Tampa Bay area
Feb. 21: 3:30 PM Gainesville, FL
Feb 22: 12:00 PM Safety Harbor, FL
Feb. 23-25: Louisville, KY/ Indianapolis, IN

Feb. 28: Chicago, IL
March 1: Claredon Hills, IL & St. John, IN
March 2: University Park, IL & Naperville, IL & New Albany, IN
March 3: Bloomington, IN
March 4: TBA
March 5: Springfield, IL
March 6: Springfield, IL
March: Come home

As you can see, there will be a lot of travel. Pray for safety through cold conditions and smart driving. Pray for open doors and clear visions for ministry. Pray for our family as Kristi will be taking care of the family on her own.

The new work is really beginning and now, more than ever, we need partners.

Sincerely, Danny

great weekend at FCC in Clearwater

2007-02-19T09:37:00.000-06:00

What a great time in Clearwater! I spoke Feb. 18th at First Christian Church in Clearwater. I had a chance to fill their pulpit and share a bit of my heart/ passion. I decided to share from John 9 and the blind man. The topic was compasion: standing firm for the needs of others. It is great miracle that Jesus perfroms. Not simply for the blind man, but for the disciples to realize that the troubles of the world are shining moments for God to do something great.

For me, it is clear that the disciples had their eyes opened as much as the blind man. My eyes were opened a bit too as I had a chance to meet many people from church formerly known as Central Christian Church. 20 + smiling faces were there to see the "new guy."

Though it is not certain whether we will worship together regularly in the future, I was certain to recognize that we will not worship without the blessing of their legacy. The fact that this church passed the assetts on for a new and different work amazes me.

But that's what the kingdom is about, personal sacrifice for continued ministry so that God may get the credit He is due.

Thanks to FCC for allowing the chance to share what we are hoping to do and thanks for Central Christian for their sacrifice for a new church work.

Super Bowl humor from some friends back home...

2007-02-01T14:04:00.001-06:00

John Madden was in San Diego to announce a football game one weekend when he noticed a special telephone near the Charger bench. He asked Phillip Rivers what it was used for and was told it was a hotline to God. John asked if he could use it. Rivers replied, "Sure, but it will cost you $200." John scratched his head, then thought, what the heck, I could use some help picking games. He pulled out his wallet and paid $200. John's picks were perfect that week.

The next week John was in New England when he noticed that same kind of phone on the Patriots bench. He asked what the telephone was for and Tom Brady told him, "It's a hotline to God. If you want to use it, it will cost you $500." Recalling last week, John pulled out his wallet and made the call. John's picks were perfect again that week.

The next weekend John was in Indianapolis when he noticed the same kind of telephone by the Colts bench. He asked Peyton Manning , "Is that the hotline to God?" Peyton said, "Yes, and if you want to use it, it will cost you 35 cents." John looked incredulously at Manning and said, "Wait a second, I just paid $200 in San Diego and $500 in New England to use the same phone to God! Why do the Colts only charge 35 cents?"

Peyton looked at John and replied, "Because in Indianapolis , it's a local call."

GO COLTS !

Been to Mississippi

2007-01-29T15:06:00.000-06:00

On the 26th, I flew to Memphis, TN to get picked up to head to Mississippi. I had never been, but always look forward to new places and new faces. This wekend represented MCYC - the christian youth convention for the state.

I enjoy doing these types of events. Away for the glamour and glitz that sometimes comes with major events, you get to be very genuine here. Not that I am not geniune at large events, but some of those events never allow you to slow down and chat with the people.

The theme was Extreme Makeover: Christ Edition. We talked Friday night about building alife on Jesus so that when the storms come, you can endure the storm. Then it happened. The "hey nice job" and "great to have you" went to transparent conversation. One man chared about the death of his father. One mother shared about the struggle of her oldest daughter. It was clear from the get go that Mississippi was comfortable with who they were. I love that.

The weekend continued and highlights happened a lot. What is amazing about this convention was I was not the scheduled speaker and the band wasn't scheduled either. Both of us filled in as back ups due to some unforeseen issues.

Nonetheless, God planned something well beyond all of us. I was truly humbled and moved. Mississippi was great. A special thanks to Bobby Joe, Michael, Mel, and the cast of hooligans who helped make me feel at home.

So Mississippi - don't be afraid to call if you need anything!

www.mississippichristian.com

Loving life in Florida!

2007-01-12T08:07:00.000-06:00

We have lived in Tampa for 12 days now and we have loved it. The weather is incredible this time of the year. This weekend we are anticipating 80 degree weather and sunshine. (Just in time as our first potential staff memebr comes to interview.) It has really been a joy and has made the move go well.

Here's what we have done this winter that we normally don't do in the mid-west:
1. I mowed my lawn. (I taught Ricky how to as well. His lines aren't straight, but I ain't doing this every 5 days or so.)
2. We went to the beach. This was great. The weather was warm, we picked up sea shells, but the water was chilly.
3. We are wearing shorts and t-shirts.
4. We catch yard lizards for fun.
5. We need to use bug spray.
6. We went out for ice cream. (Oh we do that all year round. We love ice cream no matter the temperature.)
7. We played at the park.
8. The boys play on the patio.

All in all it has been really great. We have started getting to meet some people and ministers here in the Tampa area. Everyone is extremely welcoming and supportive of our endeavor.

Pray for us. We have a long way to go and need to raise up some major partners to help us as Common Ground gets started.

Finally moving in???

2007-01-06T08:46:00.000-06:00

Well we have had these dates for our move in told to us.
Dec. 27 & 28
Jan. 3 & 4

and now noon on Jan. 6

Our goal is to have our furniture show up on Saturday before noon and call our house our home. Pray for us as everything else has gone well in our transition. This is the finall piece to our move.

A special thanks needs to go to Dan and Collen Hanko as they have housed us at their home in St. Pete. Though the drive across the bay every day has been beautiful, it will nice to only take 5 minutes to get Ricky to school.

Starting next week we will be ready for guests. Come on down and stay with the Schaffner's. We'd love to have you.

Good Grades All The Way!

2006-12-20T09:14:00.000-06:00

Well, for whatever reason, I went back to seminary this last semester. Many people have found that to be surprising, but not me. There is no doubt I did not take advantage of the education I received while attending LCC. However, though I did not show it through my efforts, I truly respected my professors. Through the ups and downs, they maintained constant encouragement and accountability. Because of them, I am better for it.

But why go back and why now? To right some of the wrong and to redevelop some pieces in my thinking. I want to be equipped the best I can be for this church plant and surprising LCS was very much on the pulse of some things I needed to develop. I have enjoyed my classes and professors. But here is the good news - though I had to take and incomplete in one class, (which means I have extra time to complete my work due to the complex schedule for church planting) I am pleased to announce that I have received an "A" for Strategies and Methods for Urban Ministry and an "A-" in Imaging God's World.

Truth be known, I am beside myself. I really thought I wouldn't make it some days. But I can learn on this level as well as succeed. I thank God, my wife, and those pesky profs for continung to challenge and spur me on to seminary. Oh and I also need to thank Mike Wittl who is sitting somewhere in Avon saying "I told you that seminary would be different."

Take care and God bless,

Danny

Homeless no more

2006-12-08T10:40:00.000-06:00

Kristi has shared good news with us today. We have found a home in Tampa to rent. Our new home - 3 bedroom and 2 bath, 1600 square foot home - is at 5906 Birchwood Drive in Tampa, Florida 33625. I am greatful we have found a home. We can now begin to put roots down and begin our life in Florida. (Which is a nice thought in the midst of an ice storm in central Illinois.)

Thanks be to God for his provision. It is good to trust and see Him at work. God is good - all the time.

Catch you at the beach!

Danny Schaffner

Where am I?

2006-12-06T13:36:00.001-06:00

Some of you have wondered where I have been lately. I have been in Indianapolis, Tampa, Chicago, Lincoln, Tampa, New York (Manhattan), Bloomington, and every other town in the midwest. Why? Because I am in need of training. Matter of fact I am in Nashville, TN right now for training.

Pray for us - the Schaffner's that is. Kristi is actually in Tampa Dec. 6-9 looking for a place to live. We know roughly where we'd like to live, but we haven't quite dialed it in on a house yet.

Pray for the team - we are recruiting our team and fundraising. We are looking to do one more mailing this year for end of the year gifts. Pray that God would move people to support what we are doing. (To send gifts, send to: The Tampa Project - 312 Crosstown Rd. #232 - Peachtree, GA 30269) We are also recruiting people to move to Tampa and be a part of our community. Specifically we have recruited our Children's Minister and she is starting the process with us. Pray also that we will find a Worship/ Associate person soon.

Well, that's it for now. Take care and God bless.

Thank you for your prayers, support, and love.

In His Love,

Danny

a month before the move

2006-11-18T06:31:00.000-06:00

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have now begun our final approach into Tampa." So fitting that the final words of my flight to Tampa resonate in my head as I am currently thining of the next months details.

Excitement and anxiety create tension in my life right now. There is much excitement for what God will do through this ministry Yet the there is a lot of anxiety to as we continue to approach the fund-raising and staff recruitment process.

I am thankful we have a God who wants to carry our burdens and concerns. It is part of my relationship with Him that I continue to work on each day.

One of the ways God encourages us to hand over our concerns, outside of prayer, is to share them with our brothers and sisters. So can I share with you? I need you to pray about our landing and life in Tampa.

First, we have found a place to live. We have also found a house. We feel we know the schools well and the area. Pray that we would be able to secure the housing we have looked at and our move would go smoothly at the end of December.

Second, pray for staffing. I have met with several inividuals who are considering coming with us. Some for children's minsitry and others for music ministry. Pray God put's a burden on their heart for something great in Tampa.

Last of all, pray for the findraising. It has been slow going and we need some major affirmation financially. The security and development of our team is really determined by the underwriting of our finances. There will be conferences and training to attend. We want our staff to have the best and many opportunities to grow. Pray that partners continue to be raised up who can underwrite what we are stepping out to do.

Well, we are almost 30 days out. Better get ready to move, our plane is about ready to land. Take care and God bless - Danny

New friend and similiar heartbeat

2006-11-15T17:07:00.000-06:00

Do you ever have those moments that seem to be coincidental but are really encouragements from God? (Don't start the prodinence of God sermon. I recognize it as that.) I had one of those today. I was in the warehouse - a student union of sorts here at LCC - and met a ministry group who was heading to Indianapolis for the National Missionary Convention.

The ministry is called "The Pearl." (www.denverpearl.org) They are very similiar to who we are becoming and potentially going to be. (Now I say that as far as in similarity, but we are not an established entity yet. They are who they are and we will be who God has called us to be.) They are an ancient future, multi-ethnic, and urban restart. Sound familiar?

I am shocked the deeper I get into this church plantes role at how many people are going back to the city. Yet I am even more shocked on how few people really know about it. They are doing a lot of the things we are looking to do. They have re-embraced their community and restarted a church to meet the very community around them. What an encouragement and inspiration! Real urban warriors reclaiming the streets for His glory.

If you would, take a moment and go to www.denverpearl.org and check them out. The least/ most we could all do is pray for them.

By the way - they will be at the National Missionary Convention this weekend. (Nov. 17-19) Oh - and so will The Tampa Project. We will be in the student section recruiting mission trips and partners!

Take care!

I admire Bono

2006-10-16T16:34:00.000-05:00

I was sitting in my urban ministry class this last week and the suggested some research into Bono's work with Oprah to help cure aids. What? A rockstar revolutionarily changing our world.

This guy is amazing. I remember watching the movie "Rattle and Hum" when I was in high school thinking "This is a great band." Never did I realize the level to which he would leverage his influence to change the world.

Oprah calls him the reigning "King of Hope." He is the leading man to motivate church leaders at Catalyst in 05 and Leadership Summit/ Willow Creek of 06 as well.

I realize that some of my personal beliefs may not be the same as his, but he is changing the world. He is doing it in no small way either. I guess just wonder what I am doing with what I've got.

It is that reminder that God asks Moses, "What's that in your hand?" Tommy Oakes did a sermon and would say something like "Oh this? A staff, a rod, a piece of wood."

Sometimes God takes the most simple things and uses them to his glory. What greater ingenious idea is there then taking the consumerism of America and harnassing it right before Chistmas? Let alone, Bono getting Oprah to make it happen.

I admire Bono. I really do. I pray God conitues to use him as we continue to reach the world for Jesus.

His latest idea is this (red) thing. Check it out. http://youtube.com/watch?v=PdxfHQZrEy8

Mission Trips with Lincoln Christian College

2006-10-10T10:32:00.001-05:00

One of the greatest things about going to school at LCC/s is the mission mindset. Even when I was a student, the school made it priority to take a week and serve.

Last week I had the priviledge to connect with over 100 students. (The ministry fair was to the whole school, but we had face to face conversations with over 100 students.) Our goals was to recruit and target 60 students for 2 mission trips. One will be over the school's spring break week and one will be during the scheduled week of evangelism.

The trip itself will be to "get ready" and "get going." We want to get ready with our facility and property. Many details need to be taken care of on our facility like paining the children's area, cleaning the facility, landscaping the lawn, and setting up new euipment and resoures. Get going really emphasizes the relational side of our ministry. We are recruiting teams to come and serve our neighborhoods. We will be contacting local apartment complexes to come and provide a portable VBS.

All in all we anticpate these trips being preview tests ou summer trips. As our infomation goes to individuals and churches, we pray that God will send people to help us serve our neighborhoods.

A special thanks needs to go to Todd Henry. He is my brother in law and works with World View Eyes at Lincoln Christian College. He will be leading one of our trips and helped us recruit many of the students heading on this trip.

scheduled weeks:
March 3-13 & March 31-April 7 of 2007

Don't go it alone... Partnering 101

2006-10-09T14:44:00.000-05:00

I spent the weekend in Tampa and began looking for a place to call home. The flight was the typical one - long enough to nap and short enough to not have to crawl over the person next to you to make a visit to the restroom.

It was in my seat - about 22B on Southwest out of Indy - that I was reading one of my "recommended" books. The chapter was on partnering. No fault of the book's, I found myself wandering. How much do I allow "partnering" or "partnerships" happen in my life, let a lone my ministry. Not much or at least not enough, I thought for quite a while.

I realize I have neighbors, friends, family, and the church. I am supposed to be one of the most networked and partnered individuals in the world. Yet - I like my isolation. I like my independence. I like the lone ranger attitude too much. I have realized my weakness and have counted it as one of the areas I must challenge in my core.

No one should ever go it alone. But what do you do to a self-isolater? How do you change their patterns of separatism and individualism? Here are a couple of thoughts if you are like me and need an intervention of partnering.
1) Be encouraging: One of the reasons I have found myself on an island at times because I fear letting down and being real. It is often through encouragement where I begin to reveal the heart of my feelings and thoughts.
2) Give hugs: I really don't like to hug a lot, but there is power in the human touch. It is funny. The people I would like to hang with the most are often people who lead through appropriate touches - hugs, handshakes, a pat on the back, etc...
3) Ask questions: Some people don't like questions, but I do. I can tell what you've listened to and made priority in your time around me.
4) Balance space and time: Make a commitment to know me for more than a moment. Moments make impressions, but time makes an impact. I want to know people. I am thankful for people. (That is really why I am writing this blog article.)

No one should ever go it alone. I am thankful that I am not going it alone in Tampa. From the ministry organizations making this possible, to my friends in local communities helping in every way, and to the continuous friends and family who have stood by us in this endeavor, I am thankful - I, I mean, we are not going it alone.

As seen at www.floridachurchplanters.org

2006-10-09T14:33:00.000-05:00

Tampa Plant
Tampa--home to Busch Gardens, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a thriving business community, and a handful of rapidly growing universities--is filled with people who need to hear about Jesus. Right in the heart of the city, Central Christian Church communicated God’s love to people for decades. But in the last decade the church’s influence in the community lessened. By 2005 some of the church leaders sensed that God might be calling Central to embrace a new direction so radically different that it would require a whole new church.In December of 2005 Central Christian Church held their final worship services and they died with a purpose. The church agreed to a burial period long enough to convince the surrounding community that what was to come would truly be a new church. In 2007, after renovation of the facilities, we anticipate the resurrection of a new body—a new church. Everything about this new church will be different—a new name, a new staff, a new leadership, a new perspective, a new heart for the community.Our God specializes in death, burial, and resurrection and we believe He is going to use this new church to change eternity for thousands of people in Tampa in the years to come. What is more, Tampa serves as a model for other churches who may need to consider “dying well” and trusting God to bring new life. If you would like to talk about death, burial, and resurrection please contact me at ddonaldson@journeychristian.com.

What kind of church will this be?

2006-09-20T16:59:00.000-05:00

Now that we have decided to plant a church in Tampa, inquiring minds want to know "What kind of church will you be planting in Tampa, FL?" It maybe best if I start with a little history, defining of some terms, and explanation.

First of all, this is a restart. The picture that you see is a more accurate picture of the existing building from Central Christian Church. After years of being a ministry that helped launch churches around the Tampa area, they have decided to close their doors. They gave their facility to a church planting organization. Why? There are several reasons, but the truth is that the community around them changed. They were unable to adapt and meet the needs of the community. It should be said however, that it is because of their vision that ministry will be able to continue due to their graciousness and vision to pass on their legacy. Therefore, we plan to recycle these assets, target the community, and launch a new vision and direction.

Second, let me share what has been passed on to us. (It should be mentioned the assets are held between the partnerships of Florida Church Planters and Stadia: new church strategies - not the Schaffners.) The building is a 33,000 square foot facility with a 350 seat auditorium. It has a fellowship hall and has two education wings - including bathrooms, office space, and rooms for children's stuff. It is on the corner of North Boulevard and Martin Luther King and has about 4 acres of land. You can find it about 3 miles east of the airport.

Last of all, let me share a snapshot of my vision. It is my heartbeat to see a church that engages all people from all backgrounds and walks of life. It will be "multi" faceted in every sense of the word - ethnic, racial, national, socio-economic, etc. I envision a staff that is the same. I can see a Brazilian worship leader or Youth Minister from Kenya or a Children's Minister of Hispanic descent or an Associate who is African American. Nonetheless, we will be a mosaic of people, personalities, gifts, and passions. Our worship will be a celebration and our teaching will be personal. Loving relationships will be the foundation of all ministry and families will be our strength.

I love the church. I always have. I just can't believe that God has allowed me the stewardship of birthing a new one. I can see clearly now that the ministries God brought me to in the past, were the very environments I needed to become who I am today.

In the months to come, much must happen. I need partners in this process who will pray and support this endeavor. I need to recruit a staff and get the assessed, supported, and ready. I need to update a building - tear out a stage and rebuild it, replace HVAC units, buy a sound system and video equipment, and raise the finances to get it done. But most of all, I need to move to Tampa so I can start building friendships.

So keep up and keep reading. You will hear the stories of how God is faithful and how He uses even the oddest of people like me. And if you want to make sure you stay connected, e-mail me directly at schaffattaq@earthlink.net or call 217.816.3638.

Much love and peace to you all,

Danny Schaffner
Church Planter - Tampa, FL

The Gospel According to the NFL

2006-09-12T15:24:00.000-05:00

Each year the NFL starts off and hopes are high. Why? Because each year every team has a chance to win the Super Bowl. (Okay almost every team. Hey - don't say a word about my cardinals.)

What I love about the NFL is it's vision. As an organization it has helped preserve the very nature and character of the league. Never before have so many people been able to see the game. It is global, on several different networks, regionalized, and now has it's very own network. Their vision has allowed them to create a structure where every team can rebuild through the draft. Every team has the freedom to manage their staff to the same expectations and guidelines within a salary cap. Each team, though tough imagine another dynasty, has the ability to orchestrate it's future to be defined by it's owners, coaches, players, and fans.

The game itself is pure and blameless. It players, especially those of a striped cat from Ohio, are not however. Yet every week they live out their hopes and dream of the Vince Lombardy Trophy gracing their mantle.

So this year, people tell me their is a "buzz" in Arizona. I hope so. No team has been more scrutinized, harassed, and humiliated as the Cardinals since Kijana Carter was a bust for those Bengals.

But this year is different. Their hope is not in a system (religion) but in a savior (Edgerin James). First there was Moses, David, John the Baptist, and now Jesus. All of them were to prepare us for the way of the King. (Adrian Murrel, Marcel Shipp, Emitt Smith, and now there is The Edge). His father (Mr. Bidwell) has prepared for us a home with many rooms (luxury suites and bathrooms). Their battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the powers of darkness in the name of Seahawks, Rams, and 49ers. And yea - though we walk through the Valley of the Sun , we fear no evil. For the losses, they pile to the heavens, and yet we sit at the table of the NFL. We do not play aimlessly, no we beat our bodies as to claim the prize.

And so each year, every team has a chance at the trophy. And why not the Arizona Cardinals? In a year that will mark a new home, new church family, and new direction I will choose to have a new vision.

May the God of Peace embrace your visions and may your vision compel you to play harder for the King than you ever did before.

Family Matters

2006-09-05T14:40:00.000-05:00

If there is one heartbeat that beats the loudest in me, it is my heartbeat for my family.

I love my family. I have been married almost 11 years to great wife who has a passion for people and ministry. I have 4 boys and each one has their own personalities and strengths.

Many of you have had a chance to experience, love, and share with my family. You have been our friends, comrades, confidants, family, and co-laborers in ministry.

I just wanted to take moment and say "Thank you!" to all the people out ther who have intimately walked this journey of life with us. I know that we will continue our friendships in the years to come. Besides - I just went up on your "Top 10 places I'd like to visit list this winter."

Anyway - thank you for the blood, sweat, and tears that you have invested in us. My family matters deeply to me and apparently it does to you as well. Thank you for everything!

Riding the Wave

2006-09-04T17:56:00.000-05:00

I first read about riding waves as an analogy by Ricky Warren - in the "Purpose Driven Church" Book. (The better book of the purpose driven series in my opinion.)

None the less, he uses this analogy to describe the navigations of good ministry vs. great ministry. God is the great wave provider and the world is our ocean for ministry.

Ministry comes in a lot of forms these days - many of which are great forms. But the sport of catching the "great wave" seems lost. I know it was for me. I was looking to catch a ride on a ship already at sea - looking to take a better course.

But thank God the ocean is huge and surfing is a great sport. Man against the wave. (world) An incredible mission with an impossible feat. Imagine taking the world's momentum and using it for your journey.

"The Tampa Project" is more than a ride and more than just a wave. For me - I believe it is "the wave." It is a declaration of a coming tsunami - a change in church culture and experience. I believe God is orchestrating a cataclysmic shift within church culture. It all starts by heading back into the city and reclaiming it's heart.

Here's how I expressed it to some friends and family: "This is one of those waves that most guys dream about. It is high enough to drown me, but strong enough to change the sport. Sure there will be a lot to be said about how we navigate it, but the Wave of all Waves will clearly be what the world will talk about."

In the coming weeks and months I will begin to empower a prayer team, recruit a team of staff and families, and raise financial support. It is my heart that these next few months be as little about me and as much about what God is doing in Tampa.

Pray for us - the Schaffner family. This is an adventure, but it is still an ocean. And in the ocean, there are rocks, reefs, undertow, sharks and in honor of Steve Irwin - stingrays.

Safe surfing and may God be honored in our sport.

What do you think of when you think of Tampa, Florida?

2006-08-30T15:47:00.000-05:00

What do you think of when you think of Tampa, Florida?

Some would say - "Isn't that near where that big eared mouse has his amusement pad?" Others maybe would think of the beach, the great art and theartre site there, or Ybor City. (I automatically think of the Buccaneers when I think Tampa, but that's because in my world, football is second only to my calling for Christ and my marriage. Anyway back to the bloc. )

When I first thought of Tampa and planting a church, I frankly gave it little thought. Church planters are radical and outside the lines kind of people. Those days for me were long gone. I used it all up refusing to do my homework in college. I also didn't think much about it because Florida is hot - really hot. Like "south of the border for eternity" hot.

None the less, this is where a I find myself today - headed somewhere I never imagined and in a role I never thought I would do. Why? Because of "mission."

Mission is a word I think of when I think of "the city". It embraces passion + purpose + people + needs + action = mission. In some ways, I feel I had lost some of mine. I miss the city. The lights, the noise, the trash, the movie theatre, the sports, and most of all the diversity. So I started this journey to search out what God may have me do if I were living in Tampa.

Some things I have found or been told... (on the positive side)
In the next 10 years, Florida will have 110,000,000 people.
Tampa is great for family fun. (Bush Gardens, Sports, the beach)
The people are like the weather - very warm and diverse
It is known for it's big pirate festival and celebrations

Some things I have found or been told ... (on a negative side)
Tampa has trouble with sharks.
Tampa has been a top city in the US for murder per capita.
Clearwater has the most lightning strikes per capita in the US.
Oh and alligators - eat people not chicken.

Underneath all of this, is a story of Tampa waiting to really be told. Under the veneer of brokenness, growth, diversity, and poverty is a church waiting to reclaim a community back to Christ. I am not sure what you think of Tampa. Matter of fact, I am not sure what I completely think of Tampa. But know this, that in all the greatness and despair, my heart is beginning to beat for Tampa and it's people in a way I had never imagined.

The Tampa Project

2006-08-30T10:59:00.000-05:00

It is official. The phone call was made last Friday, contracts were sent Monday, and as of the 26th - we are beginning our new church planting Partnership. All of us here at the Schaffner household would like to say that you to:

Florida Church Planters & Stadia Church Planters

Your partnership to reclaim Tampa is inspiring. I pray God will challenge us to do something well beyond our selves - not just in gifting, ability, or impact, but a ministry that ripples into eternity.

In His Love,

Danny Schaffner
Church Planter

PS - I have attached a picture the church that has left it's assets as a legacy for our church work. Central Christian Church had the vision to pass on their assets so that the kingdom could continue in a new work to reach Tampa. Thank God for the legacy of Central Christian Church. They have helped give birth to The Tampa Project!