Four Years, Two Years, & Two Years Later

Los Angeles

In referring to Los Angeles, Anthony Kiedis said this: "Land of a thousand faces."  Gabrielle Reece was asked to describe Los Angeles in 5 words.  This was her reply: "Possibility.  Space.  Outdoors.  Eclectic.  Driving."  American Poet Dorothy Parker had this to say: "Los Angeles is 72 suburbs in search of a city."  Here are a few other statements about Los Angeles, by sources unknown: "Los Angeles is like New York laying down."  "Los Angeles is like taking New York up on its side, and letting everything find its way."  "Los Angeles: Where the world creates and innovates."  A Pastor from Ethiopia said this to another Pastor in LA: "Your city is the seed of the children of the world.  Birthing the world's understandings and values through your seed."  October 1, 2015, marked 4 years of living here in Los Angeles...

Business Logos

September 16, 2015, marked the 2 Year Anniversary of my business...Eric Flores Fitness.  I am truly forutnate to have such great clients!  They are generous, accommodating to my schedule, and have all become friends of mine.  It has been said, "If your business makes it the first 5 years, than it will last in the long run."  It is exciting and scary all at the same time, in this phase of "building."  Part of the reason, I am so driven in my "secular employment," is to show the people of Venice, it was never about the money in regards to this church plant.  Paul the Apostle, took 4 missionary journeys in the span of his illustrious ministry career, planting many churches.  There were seasons/chapters, where he was fully funded, and other times where he fell back on his trade of tent-making.  It was a traditional principle of Jewish Rabbis that even a student of the law should be able to maintain himself by secular employment; a father was expected to make sure that his son had a trade or profession by which to support himself.  In fact, one of the requirements to be able to join the Sanhedrin (Jewish City Council), was to have a trade.  Of course, these men would pick a trade they enjoyed.  I am so thankful to God that as I pursue my calling, I have employment I enjoy!  I get to experience the best of both worlds.  Venice reminds me a lot of ancient Corinth, Greece.  One similarity, would be that both people groups are skeptical of authority.  My ministry partner Jeff Shelp and I, made a pact early on.  It was this...that if the church grew to a place where it needed or wanted our full-time attention, energy, and time, then and only then we would quit "our day jobs."  These Bible Verses capture the heart of Jeff and I: 1 Thessalonians 2:9: "For you remember, brethern, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God."  Acts 20:33-35: "I have coveted no one's silver or gold or apparel.  Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me.  I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak.  And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"  1 Corinthians 9:18: "What is my reward then?  That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel."  I want to also publicly thank one of my best friends Eddie Sahakian.  Not only did he build a business website free of charge for me, but it is pretty legit as well!  He spent countless hours all last summer to the end of 2015, preparing for New Year's Day 2016.  Go check it out at ericfloresfitness.net

Homeless in Venice

June 16, 2015, I attended the LAPD Pacific Division Clergy Council Meeting.  These monthly meetings enable the Clergy, LAPD, and other Humanitarian Organizations to come together and serve the Westside, specifically Venice.  In order to become a member...I had to fill out a ton of paperwork, attend 3 meetings consecutively, and submit my fingerprints.  One of there main goals, is to reach out to the homeless.  Once a month, the officers team up with the Clergy Council to hand out food, hygiene kits, and other items to the homeless in Venice.  Consider these facts, most are under 30 and 44% are from out of state.  This council is proving, that there are good cops out there who care.  They aren't the enemy, as many of the homeless think.  Serving in this capacity, allows me to have a voice for the homeless and the LAPD.  We are currently looking at ways to serve the officers as well.  Our photos (Clergy Members) are in the hallway of the Police Station, visible for the officers to see every morning after roll call.

2nd Church Baptism

Sunday July 26, 2015, marked our 2nd Annual Beach Baptism!  We also had our very first Baby Dedication!  The individuals who were baptized were: Shelby, Mukari, Kili, and Sherinne.  The baby dedicated was James, who's mother is Shelby!  It was beautiful to not only witness a brother and sister get baptized together, but for a mother to get baptized the same day her son is dedicated to the Lord.  Mukari was baptized as a teenager, but he didn't really understand what he was doing at the time.  He told me he now understood, and this time around it would mean so much more.  Sherinne wasn't quite sure if she would go through with it that day.  However, as the church worshiped, and the Gospel was preached clearly...she took a step of faith.  While in the ocean, Jeff looked in her in the eye and asked if she believed.  She looked back with a smile, and responded "Yes!"  It was truly a special moment for both Jeff and I.  It was like a page out of the book of Acts!

Regeneration Church Celebrating 2 Years! (Pastor Ruben Vasquez in the Mix)

January 3rd, 2016, Regeneration Church had its Second birthday!  It is going by so fast.  Typically in Church Planting, the first 2 years are a time of laying the foundation.  In certain parts of the United States, and the globe, attending weekly Sunday Church Services is part of the culture.  I was speaking with a friend not too long ago, who had spent over a year in Charleston, South Carolina.  He told me at his job, his co-workers had 2 things in common.  One, they were all non-believers.  Two, they all had a church they regularly attended every Sunday Morning!  He noted, that it was just so ingrained in the culture of the South...AKA the Bible Belt.  Well, here in the Westside of Los Angeles, specifically in Venice, it isn't.  However, that is mainly why I came here.  To plant a Gospel preaching, Bible believing, Bible teaching, Jesus loving, welcoming Church. The work is slow, but steady.  In the Fall & Spring, we have Men's Studies Thursday nights.  In the Winter & Summer, we have Prayer Meetings.  Every Sunday and Thursday, people faithfully come together no matter what.  It is Biblical, historical, and practical.

Pastor Dave Shirley (Board Member)

Romans 16 style shout outs again!!  Thank you to these Worship Leaders who helped us in 2015:  Ray Reyes, Art Reyes, Daniel Bergquist, Josh Wagner, Edith Pinero, Liza Pinero, Jasmine Alnutt, Alina Krishcko, Joanna Sagrero, Danielle Hogan, Ashley Hollander, Jackie Gutierrez, Melissa Barris, and Kyle Delos Santos.  I also want to give a big thank you to the Guest Speakers who brought the Word in 2015:  Pastor Dave Shirley, Pastor Ruben Vasquez, Mike Turner, Pastor Will Bredberg, Pastor Larry Powers, and Pastor Daniel Flores.

Pastor Sammy Martinez (Secretary)

January 18, 2015, we had our 1st Board Meeting.  Jeff and I wanted to wait a full year, before assembling a Church Board.  John Dalberg-Acton rightly said: "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely."  A great quote, when considering Church Government.  I serve as the Chairman, Jeff the Treasurer, Pastor Sammy Martinez (Calvary Chapel Moreno Valley) the Secretary, Pastor Ruben Vasquez (Calvary Chapel Landers) a board member, and Pastor Dave Shirley (Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa) a board member.  Honestly, I truly am humbled and blessed by all these men.  They really do love Jesus, His Church, and the work in Venice.  I am the youngest on the board.  I did this intentionally.  I wanted different ages, experiences, personalities, and good friends.  They are not "yes" men, and challenge Jeff and I in various ways.  They are invested in this venture of faith through the giving of their time, energy, prayers, moral support, and finances.  They also understand, that Venice is not like their churches in the suburbs, therefore giving Jeff and I great freedom to minister accordingly.

Venice Beach Boardwalk

In conclusion, if you just focus on Sunday Morning Church attendance, you are tempted to think God isn't doing much.  Every Sunday, Jeff and I truly don't know who will show up.  It feels like we are launching a new Church Plant every week!  However, I enjoy talking to people in our church, who tell me they are constantly sharing the Gospel with neighbors, classmates, friends, and co-workers.  They are out in the world meeting people, forming relationships, and building friendships.  They even invite them to services and church functions/events.  Some come, most do not.  I personally, have even delighted to talk about God, and the things of God with my clients.  Some will ask about the church and its progress, ask questions about spiritual things, respect what I am doing, but will never come.  That's okay, because seeds are being planted and watered.  Take for example last Summer in 2015, Jeff's son Tucie and I hit the Boardwalk, almost every Friday morning.  We passed out food, hygiene kits, clothes, prayed with people, prayed for people, and shared the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ with them.  We formed relationships with homeless people, musicians, artists, vendors, skaters, and street performers.  We listened to their stories, saw their tears, and the reason they were in Venice Beach.  Of course we invited them to Church, not one of them came.  You know what, they may never come.  That's alright, because we don't want people to get the impression that strings are attached, when acts of kindness are done in the name of Jesus.  However, the invitation will always be extended, and we will keep on meeting twice a week!  The Real Miracle is...2 years later people are still showing up every Sunday Morning and Thursday Night!

By His Grace,
Eric

Three Years Later & One Year Later in Venice

Jesus Going after the "One"

The 4 Gospels, don't contradict or confuse each other.  Rather, they complement and complete each other.  Matthew, a Gospel that focuses on the Kingship of Jesus, Mark on the servant hood of Jesus, Luke on the humanity of Jesus, and John on the deity of Jesus.  Luke 15, is a chapter containing 3 parables about the joys of salvation.  C.S. Lewis wrote: "Joy is the serious business of heaven," and it is a joy in which you and I can share.  After a careful and thoughtful read of this chapter, you discover the true value/worth of just one soul.  Jesus said it best in Luke 15:7:  "I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance."  Then in Verse 10:  "Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."  In this 3rd year of living here, and 1st year of our church, I understand this chapter at a whole new level.  October 1, 2014, marked 3 years of living here in Los Angeles...

1 of 2 Business Cards

September 16, 2014, marked the One Year Anniversary of my business...Eric Flores Fitness.  It was an incredible year starting the business, and trying to get established.  My brother-in-law Brandon, was helpful once again, in the area of having a logo and branding.  He created 4-5 different logos for different purposes.  To end the year, we started with new business cards and car door magnets in mind.  For 2015, our goals include but not limited to: t-shirts, polos, wristbands, hats, a website, etc.  Hopefully, this will be the year of expanding the business.  I am currently working on my 5th certification.  I will be going through NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), to become a certified FNS (Fitness Nutrition Specialist.)  I consider myself very fortunate, to be afforded the opportunity to do this for a living.

Reunited with Jimmy, Liz, Loretta, Raf, and meeting Jonathan

In our first year as a church, we were blessed to have 2 guest speakers.  Sunday April 27th, and Sunday June 8th, 2014, one of my best friends Pastor Jimmy Schaeurte, came and taught.  I served with him in Spain, and we were also ordained together.  I am so thankful for his friendship.  He is one of those voices of truth in my life, that encourages me to keep going!  Then on Sunday November 9th, 2014...my friend, mentor, and Pastor Rafael Manzanares, came to meet the people and teach!  I can't say enough about him.  My pastoral gifts, really flourished under his leadership.  He had told me in the Fall of 2007, that I would have a church one day.  A dream come true.  There he was, 7 years later, being a part of that reality!  Words do escape me, describing the emotions that welled up inside me, as I listened on in.

1st Church Baptism

On Sunday July 27th, 2014, was our 1st Baptism.  I met Cindy in the Fall of 2011.  I had just moved to Los Angeles, and started working at Golds Gym in Venice.  We both worked late hours in those days.  She used to work the front desk, waiting to close up.  Over time, we built a good friendship.  Eventually, I started sharing why I moved here...to plant a church.  I remember her saying..."Well, if you're the guy up there, maybe I will come!"  Time went by, and she stopped working at Golds Gym.  We only kept in touch through social media.  At the end of 2013, I informed her the church plant was now becoming a reality.  She made good on her word, and showed up within the first month.  Not only has Cindy been a part of our church family, but has become actively involved.  She has told me on many occasions..."I am committed to this flock, this is my church home."  At the baptism, she did a stellar job sharing her testimony.  She was a natural, and has a real gift.  Before Jeff and I baptized her, I said to the church..."If Cindy was the only reason God sent me to Venice, it was worth it.."  Her eyes were filled with emotion and gratitude.  It will be a day I never forget.

Church Birthday Cake

Regeneration Church had its First Birthday, on Sunday January 4, 2015!  This year has flown by!  I look back with fond memories.  The love I have for these people, is hard to put into words.  I think this is the best church in the world.  I would rather be nowhere else right now, at this point in my life.  Like many church plants, this 1st year people have come and gone.  We have had our share of visitors, people just seeing what we are all about.  Before we launched, one Pastor shared with me, to let the first 1 to 2 years go by.  This was in regards to the shaping & molding, of the overall Vision & Mission of the church.  In other words, just see who God brings you to be those "core" people.  One year later, I am very pleased!  This gives me great hope entering our 2nd year of ministry!

Regeneration Church Celebrating 1 Year!

On Saturday July 26, 2014, we officially launched a church website!  My long-time friend Eddie Sahakian, was gracious enough to put all the work in.  I want to now give some shout outs Romans 16 style!  Thank you to these Worship Leaders: Daniel Bergquist, Nat Reyes, Kelsey Monteith, Ray Reyes, Josh Wagner, Steven Small, Adam Villarreal, Art Reyes, Johnny Beltran, Royce Rull, and Liz Schaeurte.  Thank you to Rhyss Leary, for putting together the Baptism Video.  In the area of design, thank you to Brandon Franco for our Church logo, Signs, and Banner.  Thank you to Samantha Flores, for the Sermon Series Artwork, and our 1st Easter Flier.  Thank you to Amanda Franco, for jumping right in to help in the area of hospitality, when you visit!  Without your help, this 1st year as a church would have seriously lacked!  It is so wonderful, to see the greater Body of Christ pitching in to help this new church!

Diane Sharing her Testimony

In conclusion, I want to thank my family, Shelp family, and volunteers, who call Regeneration home.  Proverbs 20:6 declares: "Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?"  This verse comes to mind...when I think of your commitment, obedience, and devotion to Jesus and His church.  I am so pumped, as we look to our 2nd year, being filled with Retreats, Mission Trips, Outreaches, Development of other ministries, and much more!

By His Grace,

Eric

Launched

Church Logo

 The book of Acts, is a record of the 1st century church.  Documented therein, is persecution of the early Christians.  The Apostles were being constantly threatened, not to speak in the name of Jesus anymore.  They responded with: "We ought to obey God rather than men."  This infuriated those opposing Jesus.  As a result, they desired to put to death the Apostles.  A Pharisee named Gamaliel, was a respected teacher of the law.  He stood up and said this in Acts 5:38-39:  "And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it-lest you even be found to fight against God."  Prior to launching, I interviewed a few Church Planters here in Los Angeles.  One shared with me, that 9 out of 10 church plants fail here in LA.  In just two and a half years, of him being on the Westside, five had failed already.  Studies have shown through the years, that 3,500 churches die and close each year in America.  However, according to researchers Ed Stetzer and Warren Bird, that is changing.  Recent studies show, that approximately 4,000 churches are birthed in the U.S. (500 more than are closed) every year.  In light of this passage of Scripture, and these numbers, time will only tell where we fit in the grand scheme of things...

Church Facebook Cover Photo

December 2013, a month of making final preparations for the launch of the church.  Before opening a bank account, they required a few items.  Jeff Shelp drew up the bylaws for the church, we read over them, and then signed them.  Jeff obtained a Tax ID Number, and then we were finally able to go to the bank!  After opening an account in the church's name, getting debit cards, and a checkbook...Jeff set up a bookkeeping system.  Through the month, my brother-in-law Brandon and I, worked on the church logo.  Easy enough right?  Wrong!  There are so many details!  Everything from design, colors, font, size of letters, placement, mixing and matching, etc.  So, after countless hours, text messages, e-mails, rough drafts, phone calls, visits, it was finally done!  To be honest, we wanted it to be simple.  Something that could stand the test of time, in the face of trends/fads.  Afterwards, church business cards needed to be designed, ordered, as well as creating a church e-mail address.  It was all coming together.  Finally, the last thing on the list was dealing with The Electric Lodge.  I read, signed, turned in the contract, got the key, and received final instructions for opening day!

Inside Twin Towers

On Saturday December 21, 2013, I attended the graduation for Malachi Dads.  Once again, I was blessed to hear every inmate's story of God's grace in their lives.  Last post, I mentioned starting to do ministry at Twin Towers.  Due to launching the church, and taking on more "tent-making" work on Saturdays...my time at Men's Central Jail with Malachi Dads was coming to a close for now.  As a result, I was really looking forward to volunteering at Twin Towers, in the evening during the week.  After filling out the application, turning it in, tons of phone calls, texts, e-mails...the door closed.  On February 7th, 2014, my appointment with the senior chaplain was a no show.  However, the chaplain who I originally met up with, was so helpful through the process.  He tried everything to get me in.  Then on March 18th and 26th, 2014...I received word that this same senior chaplain, was no longer accepting new volunteers.  This was primarily due, to leadership changes within the department.  Eventually, I pray I will be able to come back to do ministry there.

Eric Flores Fitness Facebook Profile Pic

On November 15, 2013, I took and passed my exam, to become a NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) certified MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Conditioning Specialist!  This marked my 4th certification.  It has now been 9 months, since I started my business Eric Flores Fitness.  I am so fortunate, to be doing something I love and am passionate about, while attempting to plant this church.  My clients are all committed, and a real joy and pleasure to work with.  The business has continued to grow, with new clients and the purchasing of new equipment.  My goal is to not only be a great pastor, but a great trainer.

On Sunday January 5, 2014, after 2 years and 3 months of living here in Los Angeles...Regeneration Church finally launched!  Our first Sunday Morning service, was held at the Dance Studio in the Electric Lodge.  In 5 short months, Jeff and I have been so joyful, over the work God is doing.  From the very beginning, we have had 3 basic types of people, come through our doors.  The 1st type of person, has been the unbeliever.  Not really antagonistic toward the gospel, but curious and intrigued by it.  The 2nd type, would be the new believer.  Men and women, who are still new in their faith and walk with Jesus.  The 3rd type, would be the believer who hasn't been a part of the church in a while...somewhat lost their way.  However, they have recently found their way back to our front step.  Our 1st Sermon Series was Vision, 2ndly was The Bible: The Word Of God, Or The Word Of Man?, 3rdly was Codes, Visions, Missions, Statements...??. Currently, we our in our 4th sermon series entitled: The Pursuit Of Joy: A Study Through The Book Of Philippians.

Current Sermon Series

On Monday January 6th, I went on the radio program Light into the Night, on KGBC for the 3rd time.  The host and co-host, wanted to hear about the launch the day before, as well as our vision/mission for the church.  Just the next day, on Tuesday January 7th, I received bad news from the Electric Lodge.  They made a mistake, and were not supposed to rent to us.  It came down to noise control and parking in the neighborhood, at early hours on a Sunday morning.  Jeff and I were on the hunt again!  We contacted and visited office spaces, hotels, theaters, schools, libraries, senior centers, community centers, recreation centers, all to no avail!  Praise God, the lodge was very sorry and wanting to still accommodate us!  Two weeks later, on Sunday January 19th, we met in the amphitheater, located at the lodge.  This then, would give us a month to buy time.  Part of the problem was...the times that were for rent in both the dance studio and amphitheater, already had classes, plays, and rehearsals booked in them.  Then boom!  The basement, was open for as long as we wanted it!  We started meeting there by the end of February, and have been there ever since.

St. Joseph Center Slogan and Logo

Lord willing, Summer 2014 includes baptisms, outreaches, building a church website, and much more!  As the doors have closed for now at the jail, I have been thinking and praying about other avenues, to get involved with the community of Venice.  St. Joseph Center, provides many programs to meet the needs of the community.  One, is called Bread and Roses Cafe.  A place that provides 4 star food for the homeless, operating like a restaurant, making reservations, fresh flowers on the table, ordering off a menu, being served and waited on, etc.  They serve 150 people everyday Monday-Friday.  I am currently going through the application process.  I hope to get involved by the end of Summer.

In conclusion, there are so many other "little things," that have been done in regards to church work.  Jeff and I have been blessed by our volunteers, families, and church members, serving in the name of Jesus.  Everyone, just has a heart to love, serve, and help one another.  I still don't know, what will become of Regeneration Church as our 1st year unfolds.  What I do know, is Jeff and I are enjoying the journey, and learning a lot!  Source unknown:  "We are so often caught up in our destination that we forget to appreciate the journey,  especially the goodness of the people we meet on the way.  Appreciation is a wonderful feeling, don't overlook it."

By His Grace,
Eric






 

Two Years Later in Venice

Entrepreneurial Pursuit

Harvard Business School Professor Howard Stevenson:  "Entrepreneurship is the pursuit of opportunity without regard to resources currently controlled."  Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission, integrated both faith and risk.  He said: "Unless there is an element of risk in our exploits for God, there is no need for faith."  Being a church planter, involves taking risks, and having the spirit of an Entrepreneur.  One pastor, referred to the Apostle Paul as an "Entrepreneur of the Gospel."  October 1st, marked two years ago that I moved to Los Angeles, with the hope and prayer of planting a church in Venice.  Some great things have occurred since my last post...

On July 25th, I had a meeting with my managers at Golds Gym.  I have always had a great relationship with them.  However, due to certain requirements/expectations to remain a trainer there...I had to make some tough decisions.  Basically, it came down to them needing me to focus only on being a personal trainer, and giving more of myself to the gym.  To be fully invested in the team, and the corporation.  Although, I agreed with why this was necessary, I had to take a step back and consider my priorities.  I needed the freedom, to really give myself over to this church plant.  So, after much reflection and prayer...I put my two week notice in on Monday August 19th.  My official last day of working at Golds Gym, was Saturday August 31st.  I had worked at Golds Gym for 1 year and 10 months.  I had worked as a Personal Trainer there, for 1 year and 3 months.  It was a close, to a great chapter in my life and ministry.  I am very grateful to have worked there.

Business Card

Monday September 16th, was my first official day as a Independent Personal Trainer.  It was the start of my new business...Eric Flores Fitness.  Over the last three months...I had to buy office supplies, more equipment, obtain a Business Tax Certificate, design & order business cards, design and create a facebook page, create a new e-mail address, purchase liability insurance, make waiver/release forms, training agreement forms, receipts, etc.  This new business venture/entrepreneurial pursuit has been a blast, especially to have such wonderful clients!

Twin Towers

One of many reasons, as to why I volunteer at Men's Central Jail, was to develop a friendship/relationship with the inmates.  I knew that some, probably were from Venice and the surrounding communities.  My desire and prayer, was that there would be a church for them to come to, upon release.  These ideas were in my heart and mind over 2 years ago.  Fast forward to present day.  In the last month, some of the men have approached me, to ask when the church in Venice was going to start.  We have since exchanged contact information, as some are being released in the next couple months.  Still others, have prayed for God's blessing and favor on it!  On Monday November 25th, I was interviewed by another Chaplain.  I am currently filling out another application, and scheduled to do another orientation.  This is for the opportunity, to go volunteer across the parking lot at Twin Towers.  This will be different then Malachi Dads, which takes place on Saturdays in Men's Central Jail.  This ministry opportunity, will be during the week in the evening.  After working alongside the Chaplain two to three times, they will drop me off on one of 10 floors.  I will then be on my own, to conduct and lead services/classes.  Lord willing, I will begin this new venture in January.

The Electric Lodge

Now, on to the most exciting update.  Jeff and I, have been doing the Home Bible study, for the past 10 months.  We studied the books of 1 & 2 Timothy.  We have recently, changed it to a prayer meeting during the week.  Drum roll please...we are finally launching the church on Sunday January 5th!  Over the recent months, we were searching for a venue to meet at.  One Elementary school looked promising.  We even had the paperwork done, liability insurance covered, approval from the principal, and approval from the Los Angeles Unified School District.  We were on the verge of receiving the license...but then the door closed.  Back to the drawing board!  We considered other schools, the recreation/community center, and other church buildings.  The door finally opened at the Dance Studio, in the Electric Lodge!

These handful of months, have been busy preparing for the launch!  A list of some of those things included: organizing the order of Sunday morning service, outlining possible Sunday morning sermon series for the next year, reading and signing contracts, deciding on the name for the church, etc.  We are currently having a logo designed, creating/designing a facebook page, creating/designing business cards, writing up church bylaws, obtaining a tax ID number, and opening a bank account.


On October 8th, I was able to go on a live radio show, to talk about the church plant.  The show is called "Light into the Night," on KGBC.  They have stations in Los Angeles, Hawaii, Cambodia, Seattle, and South Korea.  Then on November 19th, I returned as a guest on the show, with my friend and ministry partner...Jeff Shelp.  I was able to share on our vision, message, and mission among other things.  Jeff was able to share his testimony.  It was so powerful!  Jeff being a Venetian, spoke about the events leading up to him giving his life to the leadership and lordship of Jesus Christ.  In that moment, I was reminded of how blessed I was, to be partnering with this hombre.


In closing, the name of the ministry is Regeneration Church.  The name is based on Titus 3:4-6: "But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior."  We also base it on John 3:1-8, where Jesus teaches on the necessity of a spiritual rebirth.  Pioneering anything, can be risky, but the rewards are well worth it...

By His Grace,
Eric 

Like-Minded

Jeff Shelp

The Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Philippi, that he would be sending Timothy to them shortly.  Here is what he said of him in Philippians 2:20:  "For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state."  Paul had met many people in life and ministry, in the course of 30 years.  However, there was nobody quite like Timothy.  Last post, I mentioned Jeff Shelp and myself, were attempting to start over again with the ministry here in Venice Beach.  We both feel it has been almost "effortless," in part because of the like-mindedness we share.  With that, here is a little bio of Jeff Shelp he sent me...

Jeff Shelp serves as the Accounting Manager for World Impact, an urban missions organization in Los Angeles.  He has served as a worship leader at Metro Calvary Chapel Santa Monica as well as the Westside Vineyard Christian Fellowship.  He is currently part of a new church plant in Venice, California, where he resides with his two sons.  They enjoy surfing, baseball, and writing music together.

On Wednesday January 16th, we started a new Bible Study in Jeff's apartment.  The first 2-3 weeks, nobody came except Jeff, me, and his son.  I had invited at least two people every week. We both agreed that we wanted locals (Venetians), and didn't want to take people from other existing churches.  We also were prepared to study and pray with just us, for the next few months.  There was no hurry, to get people to come.  We now have been meeting only 5 short months...and we have other people!  They have come from my work, the boardwalk, and neighbors in the apartment building.  It has been the highlight of my week, from the very beginning!  We also have Christians and non-Christians who come.  Jeff and I sometimes have just looked at each other, and wanted to pinch ourselves...because it has been going so well!  One woman made the comment:  "If I hadn't sensed the presence of the Lord when I first came, I wouldn't have returned."  Another woman, came to Venice 5 years ago, and lives out of her van.  Her beliefs are all over the place, but is intrigued by the Bible.  She had never been to a Bible Study in her entire life.  Recently, she shared with me that she had a question about a part of the Bible she was reading.  I responded, "Great, you have been reading on your own?!"  She said: "Yeah, I started reading because of you guys."  Jeff and I were ecstatic!

Jeff and I, are prayerfully and thoughtfully planning on launching in the Fall.  Lord willing, we will finally be doing Sunday morning services in a building.  Desiring to establish ourselves as a church in the community, and be more proactive in letting them know we exist.

Inside Men's Central Jail

Saturday February 23rd, was my first day volunteering at Men's Central Jail...the largest jail in the world located in Downtown LA.  I couldn't believe I was finally going!  It had been well over a year, trying to get in...legally!  I hooked up with a team of guys, in a ministry by the name of Malachi Dads.  We meet in one large group, then break up into smaller groups.  We also provide Bibles, prayer, and any other resources they may need.  The 12 week curriculum and homework, is based on Malachi 4:6a: "And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers."  We study together the basics of Biblical Christianity, and end on being godly husbands and fathers.  On Saturday May 25th, some of the men graduated the course.  What blessed the other volunteers and myself the most, was each graduate sharing their story.  Some were in for murder, theft, drug dealing, gang activity..etc.  While others, shared how they had been terrible husbands and fathers.  Estranged from their families for years, even decades.  However, all had one thing in common...Jesus and His Word transforming their lives from the inside out.  The inmates were able to write their families, and some were being released the very next week.  Now, with a renewed sense of hope of making things right.  As mentioned in a previous post, there are 2,500,000 inmates in America.  70% of the men incarcerated, there children will follow in their footsteps and end up in prison.  90-95% of American males on death row, have one thing in common, they absolutely hate their father. 

For the Summer, we will only be meeting once a month, and study from the book of Proverbs.  It has been said: "If you want to know the heart of God, study Psalms.  If you want to know the mind of God, study Proverbs."  This is one of my favorite books, because there is so much heavenly wisdom therein.  In the Fall, we will go back to meeting weekly with the previous curriculum/lesson plans.

On Tuesday May 28th, I hit my 1 year mark of being a Personal Trainer at Golds Gym.  It has been a great rookie year, of formal personal training.  It has been a joy to be a part of people hitting goals, losing weight, taking down their body fat percentage, change in measurements, and so much more.  However, the most important thing... is seeing people feeling comfortable in their own skin.  Some clients have even written testimonies for me as their trainer.  Also, I finally took the exam to get my 2nd certification.  I passed on Wednesday April 17th, and received it from the NCCPT (National Council for Certified Personal Trainers.)  I am now freed up, to study for my 3rd certification.  Hopefully, I will soon be a MMA Conditioning Specialist.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 states: "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven."  To focus on these pursuits...I took a break from my volunteer work as a Pastoral Volunteer at Marina Del Rey Hospital, and volunteer work at Boys and Girls Club of Venice.  For the latter portion of this year, I hope to return to these important needs in the community.

In closing, I came across this quote: "God will never leave you empty.  He will replace everything you lost.  If He asks you to put something down, it's because He wants you to pick up something greater."  The latter part of 2012, was a season of putting things down.  The first half of 2013, has been a year of picking up again.  I must say...it has been a blast!  I look forward with great anticipation, to the possibilities of greater things ahead!

By His Grace,
Eric

One Year Later in Venice Beach

Venice Beach Center near the Boardwalk

Proverbs 16:9:  "A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps."  A verse in the Bible that means more to me than ever before.  I came to West Los Angeles over a year ago, with many plans in my heart.  Some of those plans came to pass, some didn't.  In other ways, those plans worked out...but not as I thought they would.  October 1st, marked exactly one year ago I moved to this city.  In this post, I wanted to summarize my 1st year here, and share what was on the horizon....

I hit the 6 month mark, of being a Personal Trainer at Gold's Gym on November 28th.  I have been privileged to work with a diversity of clients, even on an international level.  They have hailed everywhere from Poland, Mexico, England, Italy, Lebanon, and even Barcelona, Spain!  I have even been able to practice my Spanish again!  One of the clients from Mexico speaks no English at all, as a result we do every session in Spanish.

Over the past few months, I have completed the course and practice test for the NCCPT (National Council for Certified Personal Trainers).  Soon, I will be taking the exam for this certification.  My boss has encouraged us, to all endeavor to distinguish ourselves from one another.  To be able to provide a rotation of boot camps.  Every trainer, has their area of specialization.  Some have different certifications, for different areas of health and fitness.  I will be pursuing a third certification, to become a MMA Conditioning Specialist, through NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine).

Logo of the Institute

In February 2013, I will finally be ministering at Men's Central Jail in Downtown LA!  A few posts back, I mentioned TUMI (The Urban Ministry Institute).  They provide a seminary education free of charge, to those who sense a call to be pastors.  Please pray for this endeavor!

On Tuesday October 2nd, I returned to the Boys and Girls Club in Venice.  I would now be volunteering on a weekly basis, assisting the Athletic Director with the "Commit to be Fit" program.  The past couple months have been a blast!

Now, on to the status of the church plant!  In previous updates, I have shared about the team and our work together.  Our 3 month commitment in the park, ended on Sunday September 23rd.  It was then, I had to make some major decisions about changing up the leadership team, and taking a step back from the church plant.  Meanwhile, Jeff Shelp and I realized through this process, how like-minded in regards to ministry we were.  Jeff was raised in Venice Beach, and is as local as they come.  He has an incredible testimony.  His sphere of influence is on the beach, as he and his sons are avid surfers and skaters.  We are currently praying and planning together, the next steps of faith to take.  On Wednesday January 16, 2013, we are going to do a Bible study in Jeff's apartment...which is right on the boardwalk!  Jeff will be inviting local friends, as I will be inviting co-workers and members of the gym.  We are going back to the drawing board, and starting with a clean slate.  As the year goes on, we will see what the Lord does.  Lord willing, a church will emerge from this venture of faith.  Both Jeff and I, have a renewed sense of excitement and optimism! 

Apostle Paul Tent making

Truly, the Lord directs our steps in the midst of our plans.  Hindsight is 20/20.  This past year, I didn't always understand "why" the launch date of the church was green light, yellow light, red light.  The same can be said of the ministry in the jail, boys and girls club, "tent making" job, and leadership changes.  Planning is great and Biblical, but we need to be willing to altar those plans.  I can look back on this 1st year, with a smile on my face and sense of peace in my heart.  In the wisdom of God, this year hasn't been in vain, or a waste of time.  No, quite the opposite.  Through all the delays and postponing of dates, God was beautifully orchestrating things behind the scenes.  Los Angeles feels like home now, I have become established in the community.  I have formed relationships and friendships with co-workers and gym members, become more familiar with the culture, linked up with organizations like World Impact and TUMI.  On top of all this, I have met with, and formed relationships with other Lead/Senior Pastors in Venice and the surrounding areas.

"A MISSIONARY HEART CARES MORE THAN SOME THINK IS WISE; RISKS MORE THAN SOME THINK IS SAFE; DREAMS MORE THAN SOME THINK IS PRACTICAL; EXPECTS MORE THAN SOME THINK IS POSSIBLE."  So, here we go...Round 2!

By His Grace,

Eric

Turning 30

Bonnidette Lantz:  "At 30, you finally start to catch up to those dreams you've been chasing for the last 10 plus years."  C.S. Lewis:  "Thirty was so strange for me.  I've really had to come to terms with the fact that I am now a walking and talking adult."  I turned 30 this past Spring.  Hitting this milestone, got me thinking about my life, ministry, and life in general.  I also reflected on how God used people in the OT, NT, Church History, and the present at the age of 30.  Rabbi Boruch Leff:  "The old cliche is true: A jack-of-all-trades is a master of none. The 20s are the training ground to become a jack-of-all-trades. The 30s is the time to focus and master those talents that can be applied in practical directions."

Old Testament:  The Bible says in Genesis 41:46:  "Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt.  And Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh, and went throughout all the land of Egypt."  Joseph goes from being a prisoner, to the prime minister of Egypt.  Basically,  Joseph ruled over Egypt, and was 2nd in command under Pharaoh.  Now, the Bible goes out of its way to tell us his age...why?  The famous 12th century commentator Rashbam, explains that at age 30 one is "worthy of leadership."  Interestingly, the minimum age to run for U.S. Congress is also 30.  The Talmud (Pirkei Avot 5:26) declares: "At age 30, one receives strength."  God would use Joseph to save the world from seven years of famine.  Egypt was the most powerful nation in the world at the time.

The Bible records in 2 Samuel 5:4:  "David was thirty years old when be began to reign, and he reigned forty years."  King David was given the name..."a man after God's own heart."  The Messiah (Jesus) would come through his line.

Apostle Paul

New Testament:  The Scriptures document in Luke 3:23:  "Now Jesus Himself began His ministry at about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, the son of Heli."  The book of Numbers tells us that thirty years of age was the time the priests began their ministry to God's people.  Up to this point, Jesus worked as a carpenter.  His public ministry would only be three and a half years, being crucified for the sins of the world at age 33.

Some Bible commentators/scholars believe the Apostle Paul was converted at the age of 30.  You could find the details in Acts 7-9;).  He would later write a better part of the NT, plant numerous churches, and be one of the best foreign missionaries in church history. 

Church History:  Late one night in 1951 while studying for an exam, Bill Bright had a powerful vision of helping to fulfill the great commission in his lifetime by evangelizing college campuses.  He was thirty years old.  The next morning, he shared it with his professor and mentor Dr. Wilbur Smith.  Through him, the name was given...Campus Crusade for Christ.  Today, it is one of the largest interdenominational mission agencies in the world.  One of its marks on world missions is the JESUS film, which has been viewed by more than 4 billion people in more than 650 languages, with 121 million reported conversions since 1979.

On October 15, 1932, a small group of friends gathered in the Liverpool Street Station to see Gladys Aylward off to China to be a missionary.  She was thirty years of age.  By 1940, Gladys had taken responsibility for nearly one hundred children-the majority of them war orphans.  Gladys embarked on a 240-mile journey to Xi'an, the capital of the neighboring province, with her children.  The Japanese soldiers were never far behind...God brought them to safety.

Pastor Rafael Manzanares

Current Times:  A man that I am currently partnering with, is Pastor Steve Snook.  He planted Metro Calvary Chapel in Santa Monica, about 23 years ago when he was thirty years of age.  His vision, is that churches are planted from the coast all the way to Hollywood.

My friend, mentor, and Pastor Rafael Manzanares, began his current work about 10 years ago at the age of 30.  He took over the leadership of Santa Ponsa Community Church in Mallorca, Spain.  He is also the director of Mallorca Bible School, which began in the Spring of 2005.  Presently, he and the leadership are endeavoring to plant a church in Palma.  This is the capital city of all of Spain's islands.  Mallorca is the largest island, with a population of 1 million people...half of them are in the city!

David Brainerd

In conclusion,  I realize more and more the brevity of life.  Whatever your age may be, don't let it paralyze you from taking steps of faith in obedience to Christ.  Earlier this year, two brothers in the Lord went home to heaven.  One was only 32 years old, and died of a cancerous brain tumor.  He was a lead pastor, husband, and father.  The other was the same, but died of a massive heart attack at the age of 36.  Some in Church History, have died just short of 30.  David Brainerd, a missionary to the Delaware Indians in New Jersey, died from tuberculosis at the age of 29.  Robert Murray McCheyne, a Scottish pastor and poet, died during an epidemic of typhus at the age of 29.

C.S. Lewis writes:  "If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next.  It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this."  My fellow Christians, be great for His glory this year and beyond!!

By His Grace,
Eric