theSoundbooth.com

Life Together – Part 1

Posted on 16 July 2010

We’ve all heard “Doing Life Together” or “We are better together” which are really just different ways of saying “Not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:23 (NASB). That has been one of the mantra’s of the modern Christian church for many years now.

In my early career as a audio mixer and system installer, I was blessed to constantly be in contact with those I would consider my peers, other sound, lighting, and video pros that shared my passion and know-how (in their various fields), many of which, to this day, are still my good friends. As I look back on those events, I realize that camaraderie was crucial in building not only my knowledge but also my passion for tech and what would become my vocation as a TD. That carried over to my staff positions at Saddleback Church and Mariners church.

When I took my current position as TD at South Hills Church I found an amazing group of staff and volunteers that love God and deeply want to share His love with the community and the world, a Pastor who respects and honors my position and what I personally bring to the table, positive things to be sure. South Hills, like many churches out there, moves at break-neck speed, and much of my time here (especially during this last year’s financial down turn) has been quite stressful. In the first few months I was here, I found myself gravitating back to both Mariners and Saddleback. Really wanting to hang out with my old friends and co-workers. Even though I was making new friends and settling in to my new position, I felt lonely and isolated.

In November of 2007 I received an email from Colin Burch, who produces the FaithTools podcast. Being a fan of that podcast, I was pleasantly surprised when Colin asked me to be one of the panel for an upcoming show. Also on that show were, Rick Pepper, who was also a contributor to my podcast (which only has one episode, but I am told, it’s amazing…[insert sarcastic line here]), Daniel Murphy, and Colin.

Needless to say, we had a great time recording the show (via Skype, of course) and after the recording was done we talked off line for at least another two hours. The field of tech made us quick friends and I felt so energized after that recording. I have become good friends with Colin (even staying with him and his wife, Kim on a trip out to the east coast last year) and Daniel. Faithtools also introduced me to Mike Sessler, whom I now count as one of my closest friends.

So much has happened in the last three years, more on that in my next post: Life Together- Part 2