One: Believing in and following after Jesus is essential to a relationship with God, purpose in this life, and eternal life to come. This is hindered by our bad choices which the Bible calls sin. Jesus offers us a gift, forgiveness and restoration, that cannot be earned by being a "good person." We receive this gift by putting our full weight (think faith) in Jesus alone for salvation. We do not nor cannot merit this gift. It is given by grace, the unmerited favor of God. Inevitaby this leads to life lived for and with Jesus.
Two: That involvement and membership in a local group of people who are also following Jesus is central to a growing relationship with Him, ourselves, and others. This is not being a fan. Church is not a spectator sport, rather it is being the church, a people that has places to meet, but are not the places themselves.
Common Places Church has a rich history and passion for college students. Starting from opening of a coffee shop church location and committing staff and resources to help LHU students trust Jesus. How does this paly itself out in college ministry?
Trust Jesus - Whether discovering the reality of who Jesus is for the very first time, or learning to put the full weight of one's life in Jesus, trusting Jesus is fundamental to all of life.
Be Transformed - Jesus loves us unconditionally, accepting us into relationship with Him not based on what we do but what He has done. This means that our old way of doing things changes as we adapt into and become a part of God's family. A new life as a member of the family of God means new attitudes, ways of thinking, being and doing.
Start Churches - Once you begin to experience the family of God you naturally want to invite others into community; that is to trust Jesus and be transformed by Him. This results in new family groups, what the bible calls Church. Churches are made up of people who have trusted Jesus. Though churches gather they are not just the gathering or service. They are so much more!
Married for 27 years, Bill and Heidi are dedicated to helping college students grow in their faith. Their mission is to see students trust Jesus and share their transformative experiences with others.
Bill, who cherishes his family, enjoys coffee with students, Bible study, reading, and movies, especially those related to Star Wars.
Heidi, a Jr. High Spanish teacher who grew up in Mexico as a missionary kid, loves Latin music, Mexican food, and long walks.
Together, they have 5 children.