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Boston Partnership E-Update
June 2006
Dear Friends,
We are frequently asked, "What's the name of your church and when do you meet?" We are getting much closer to having answers to those questions. Talks are underway with the Fenway AMC movie theatre as the venue for our weekend gatherings. The theatre is just steps from a "T" train stop, less than a quarter mile from Fenway Park and next door to "Cold Stone Creamery" ice cream (our favorite part). This particular theatre is being sold soon. Please pray that it won't impact the opportunity to use this building!
We are currently "dating" the name for our church that has elicited the most positive response from friends who do not attend church...REUNION CHRISTIAN CHURCH. Intended to reflect our mission of Helping People Find Their Way Back to God, we hope the name captures the essence of the story of the Prodigal Son being embraced by his father in Luke 15:11-32. As we pray about the name and continue to receive feedback, we anticipate that someday very soon the name may stick.
Just over four months away now!
Thank you for your prayers and support,
Mike, Hank, John, and Phil
The Movement
Meet Dan Clymer and Restoration House Ministries
 We are excited to introduce you to the man who dreamed the initial dream of this church in Boston. Dan Clymer is the Executive Director of Restoration House Ministries. He has been a tremendous resource for the church, raising significant funds and sharing his passion and enthusiasm for our mission. He has also been a dear friend and partner in this journey.
What was so obvious that now was the time for a Boston church?
I have been in the city of Boston every year but one over the last 33 years. When God provides the right people with the best resources, even someone with poor eyesight like me can see what God is doing. Over the span of a few months He opened doors for the Wilsons, Browns, Tischers and McArdles to commit to the Boston Partnership. In the same time frame, God sowed seeds in the hearts of Tim & Stephanie Hawkins to develop the Sojourn Collegiate Ministries in New England. And just as amazing, in that same period He started bringing together the prayer and financial partners to support these teams.
Why is Boston so important?
There are people who pass through Boston every year that impact the major nations around the world. This city is the educational mecca, where students from across America and the world come to study. There are over 50 colleges and universities in a 20-mile radius of downtown Boston. Secondly, Boston is the home of one of the most powerful financial districts in the world. Two of the top three investment corporations in the world are located in downtown Boston, where billions of dollars circulate each year. Thirdly, Boston is one of the major cities of the world where medical education, research, and practice can be found. Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital are places where some of the top physicians come to learn and practice.
Why are you so passionate about seeing churches started in New England?
Church planting started in New England when the Pilgrims came in 1620. By the late 1980s, however, this region was being labeled post-Christian. The region where church planting started in America has become the most unchurched region in the United States. Until now, the last hint at revival in this region was in 1950 when Billy Graham held a crusade in downtown Boston. As the result of a major recession in this area in 1990 when many people lost their jobs, their homes, and their recreational opportunities, the door for evangelism opened; and our church planters have had unique opportunities to share the Gospel with hurting and confused people.
So what is the secret to getting Red Sox tickets?
I am praying that the Boston Partnership Team will be directly involved in leading most, if not all, of the Red Sox players to Christ. Apart from this, it will take 21st century miracles to secure the tickets that our team members and supporters desire!
Prayer...
 Thank you for your prayers! This month, please pray for...
- blessings on Phil and Jen's marriage and praise for their union May 20th.
- additional people to join our launch team.
- a bbq in the park later this month intended to connect with friends and neighbors.
- guidance as we solidify the details regarding facilities and the name for the church.
- additional relationships to be formed.
"Preach the gospel at all times -- If necessary, use words."
-St. Francis of Assisi
Shower this Summer?!?
 Are you looking for a specific way to be involved in the Boston church plant? Perhaps our upcoming LAUNCH SHOWER is just what you're looking for. (The Launch Shower is similar to a baby shower, just replace the birth of a baby with the launch of a church!) Over the summer, we will be providing a "registry" of specific needs for the church launch and asking churches and individuals to consider purchasing items. Whether it is rocking chairs for childrens' ministry or video projectors for the arts, the LAUNCH SHOWER will provide very tangible ways for you to partner with us. Look for more to come!
If you have questions regarding the shower or would like to be involved, please email us.
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