In the News

Not that I care much about publicity, nor do I think many of the folks who would get into Atlas read the Greeley Tribune, but our local paper ran an article on a series of concerts we promote in our building. It was unsolicited and very complementary.

The last paragraph is a quote from one of the girls who came to a show, and it expressed precisely what we are seeking to do with the space. She said, "Lots of different kids are drawn because of the music, but it's more than just the music. You get to know people that you may never have known otherwise. It sounds sort of unrealistic, but because of that common ground, I've met some people that have become very close friends."

I found out later that this girl is a Christian, but what if the folks she is interacting with aren't yet. What if the relationships created are meaningful and real commonalities are discovered. What if the Holy Spirit has a chance to work in those relationships because a church simply opens up its doors and created events meaningful to those who are not yet in Christ.

We ought to ask ourselves constantly if the space we take up with our church buildings is good news, no news, or bad news for those in the surrounding area. I have often felt like when Atlas moved into the old Beetle Beanery (one of Greeley's most beloved buildings) that there was a collective groan. It feels like we are just now slowy breaking out of that. I hope for nothing less than a future where the people in and around the university look at our building and the people who occupy it and say, "I am so glad those people are there. They bring so much life, and service, and energy, and blessing to our area."