As a senior in high school, I read a series of books titled Fresh Wind, Fresh Faith, and Fresh Faith written by Brooklyn Tabernacle pastor, Jim Cymbla. Since that time, attending a service at Brooklyn Tabernacle has been on my bucket list. Eleven years later, I was able to check it off. The service was incredible. What stood out most is that this 'mega' church didn't look anything like the world. Neither the choir, nor the preacher was trying to entertain anyone or trying to use today's trends to draw people. The choir and the preacher relied on the Holy Spirt to do that work. The pastor was bold and didn't water the Gospel down. He stepped on toes and offered challenges. His congregation responded. Cymbla was led by the Spirt, not a clock. Being at the service was an unforgettable experice and a small glimpse at what heaven may be like.
-Brooke Lincoln, Head Women's Soccer Coach
Since I knew the story behind the Brooklyn Tabernacle, being there in person and seeing what God can do with just a mustard seed of faith was tremendous. The worship was like what I imagine heaven to be like; praising the Lord at the top of your lungs and clapping with whatever hands you have (currently has right arm in a cast) and not being worried about what others think, because they are doing the same thing.
-Mia W., Freshman
Early this morning we were surprisingly welcomed by thousands of Christian people in the most unsuspecting place; an old movie theatre. The hundreds of choir members praised with their hands lifted high, their jaws dropped, and in complete adoration of the Lord our God! Stereotypes were broken today in the Brooklyn Tabernacle. A church where you feel like it's a worship concert. an inspecting preacher with an even more surprising personality spoke; wait not just spoke, but sang, hummed, shouted, danced, and praised our glorious God. Chorus after chorus of music was sung with even more thrill for the spirit, and not a face of boredom was to be found. Today in Acts 28:23-31 we learned in part that God is not knocking on the door of the White House, schools, governments, or cities, but on the hearts of people who live in those places. Are you taking God in your heart to these places? Why in verse 24 are people "not believing" the truth of God? Hearts are hardened...If you pass by the same homeless person everyday while on your fancy phone, wearing your fancy clothes, in your brand new BMW, you wouldn't even notice the person. So it's no suprise when this person comes up to your window and you pay no attention. You're heart shows no emotion, as though this poor person is just another bum. You're heart is calloused. So here is a challenge...We have easy access to spiritual resources such as Bibles and devos, but even the best materials won't help you if they are collecting dust. Open your eyes, ears, and heart to the Word of God.
-Megan Hughes, Freshman
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