An Update: HILLSONG NEW YORK CITY
It has been a long time since my last blog, but I wanted to catch you up with progress on our plans in New York. Back in February, on Vision Sunday, I was so pleased to announce to our whole church, the concept of Hillsong New York City. This is very much an unfolding story, but one that I believe with all my heart that God is calling us to. The 'when', 'where' and 'how' is still a work in progress, but without a doubt I can say with confidence that we have a heart and a vision for this incredible city.
Today, I wanted to let you know of the most recent developments. I am excited to share with you that Carl and Laura Lentz and their young family, are moving to New York City in the second half of this year, with the intention of becoming a key part of the Hillsong leadership team. A number of years ago, Carl had a radical turnaround in his life through an encounter with Jesus, under the ministry of Pastor Steve Kelly and what is now Wave Church, Carl's home church. Sometime later, Carl attended Hillsong College (2001), and during his three years here, he met his beautiful wife, Laura (Brett) – Laura's family were a key part of our church and she grew up as a much-loved part of Hillsong's youth and young adult ministries.
About 6-7 years ago, Carl and Laura returned to Virginia Beach, where they have become a key part of the team. They have led an incredibly fruitful young adults ministry and faithfully served the vision of Steve and Sharon Kelly who we consider close friends, and who have built a fantastic church.
Earlier this year, Carl and Laura expressed their desire to be part of Hillsong New York City, and after much discussion, Steve and Sharon are graciously releasing them to that purpose. They are intending to complete their season at Wave, at the end of May, before spending several weeks in Australia. At this stage, they plan to relocate to NYC in time for their daughter to commence school there, in September.
I want to take a moment to express that it is not Bobbie’s and my heart, (nor in my understanding Carl and Laura’s), to build a church in New York from people who desire to follow them from Wave Church. I cannot reinforce enough, how important it is to me that people stay consistent and faithful to their local church - we believe that God Himself will provide the right people in New York City. We are so grateful for the investment that Steve and Sharon have made in Carl and Laura, and believe that God will only strengthen our church’s relationships as we work together to build the Body of Christ and champion the cause of local churches everywhere.
Additionally, Reed and Jess Bogard, (also former Hillsong College students), now stationed in New York City, have expressed their desire to be a part of Hillsong Church New York in the future. Reed and Jess moved to New York originally with the intentions to plant a church – and after already successfully planting a connect group in the city, they have come alongside the vision of Hillsong New York in these early stages.
We recognise that a city as populated, multi-cultural and established as New York City will bring about many challenges, and we are not naïve to the hard work it takes to build relationship and establish foundations in an area such as this. We acknowledge that there are already many great churches in greater New York, and we are excited to see how we can come alongside and be a blessing to these leaders and their congregations. As the story of Hillsong New York unfolds, our mandate will remain the same: We desire to build a church that loves God and loves people. One that reaches through cultural barriers, provides relevant and biblical teaching from the Word of God, a compassionate church that cares for and brings solution to the countless challenges facing humanity, and a church that resonates with the sounds of powerful praise and worship, glorifying our Almighty God. I believe that as we faithfully serve this vision and serve local churches, we will see God do great things…
As the vision and team in New York continues to unfold, I will keep in touch with you.
The Best is Yet to Come.
With love,
Brian
