Posts by Rich Barrett
Summer Giving Opportunity
This summer brings a great opportunity for you to really make a difference at Access Church. We’re so excited that 22 of you who have not been giving regularly have decided to jump IN with your finances! Here’s the opportunity: The Access family gave in very strong ways through the spring. But, May was pretty…
Read MoreThe Ride of Your Life
We asked the question, “Are you IN?” And 17 of you, who have not previously served, said, “YES!” That’s ridiculously encouraging! You’ve increased our volunteer force by 20%! You are equipping us to begin the fall healthy and strong! You have become a part of something bigger than yourself—something that God wants to do in…
Read MoreBaptism, What's the Big Deal?
Last time Access met, Andy Stanley gave one of the best explanations of baptism I’ve ever heard. Some of you missed it and have asked to see it, so here you go! If, after watching the video, you would like to be baptized, give us a shout. We’re planning a baptism service at the beach…
Read MoreLaughter
I thought you might enjoy this post from Stephanie, who spends most Sundays answering questions at the information table: During the service this past Sunday I was sitting at the information table watching Andy on the hall monitor, and I confess, I got distracted. In my view, past the monitor and outside, there was a…
Read MoreIN
Recently we spent some time on a Sunday morning asking the question, “Are you IN?” The premise is simple. Access church began with a group of people praying that God would do something amazing in Jacksonville. Then, that group of people began to give from their income—to a church that didn’t even have a name…
Read MoreConsumerism in the Church
Lately I’ve been in some discussions about our particular model of church with a few really bright critics. It’s good to allow others to ask challenging questions, and to ask them of ourselves. Some people just don’t like big churches. Others really resist the idea of one church having multiple campuses. And the idea of…
Read MoreSpanish Andy
Thought you might be encouraged to see how North Point is continuing to look for innovative ways to reach the community of Atlanta. A bunch of people are loving the fact that they can invite unbelieving friends to an environment like North Point. But, what happens when those people have friends who don’t speak English?
Read MoreA Letter from Shane
If you wonder what we mean when we talk about creating “irresistible environments” on Sundays, the following letter from one of our attenders should help answer that question. As you read this, keep in mind that Shane, like you and I, is on a spiritual journey, and we’re all at different points on our journey.…
Read MoreAlways Learning
One of the things I love about the culture of our staff is that they are always seeking to learn from the best. Vernon Rainwater is an old friend of mine, and last week he and his staff graciously hosted our team at Northland Community Church. When I say, “graciously”… Wow! You can’t imagine how…
Read MoreBeach Fun
I’m not sure if there’s a group of people I’d rather hang out with than the Access volunteers. What a cool group of folks! Intense “ladder ball” competition, surfing lessons, hunting for shark teeth, catching sand sharks, and just hanging out, enjoying the fine company—these consumed our day. Kevin & Darin made a little gift…
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