Observations From the Fast Lane

by Brian Blackmore

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It was my first experience at a Leadership Network event...the Innovation3Gathering at Bent  Tree Bible Church just outside of Dallas.  The main sessions were spectacular, the breakouts were too.  I went specifically because there were at least four breakouts on multi-site/satellite strategies, something we cover from various angles in Worship Facilities, and Church Production Magazine.  Mark Driscoll from Mars Hill, Larry Osbourne from NorthCoast Church, and Dave Ferguson from Christian Community Church were the panelists.  These guys were incredibly transparent and willing to share what happened that they expected, and what they didn't expect from going multi-site.  Larry shared that they thought the adopters of their first satellite venue would be twenty-somethings.  In reality it was to total cross section of their church...blue hairs included. Dave Ferguson laid out the strategies for leadership development and apprentice programs for the arts components needed at each satellite venue, including a School for the Arts where they form bands and pracice regularly, then do a concert.  The church then selects the best bands and musicians and puts them in the satellite venues.  To me this seems like a better method than auditions.  I've been there, auditions are really awkward and don't always give an accurate impression of talent.  Mark Driscoll was next, and man did he "bring it on".  HOnestly, he spewed information faster than I could take notes.  One important point though. He talked about the 3000 or so churches that are closing their doors each year.  Driscoll says these are multi-site opportunities.  Churches that are successfully doing multi-site can give a dieing church a new live.  He calls it Restart. Great stuff.  For more info go to http://www.innovation3gathering.com.

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