On Sunday, September 9 the Council of Elders of New City Church will ordain me. Many ask, “What is ordination?” Ordination is a public acknowledgement of three things: a man’s giftedness for ministry; a man’s calling to ministry; and a man’s qualification for ministry. Ordination is an act of the Council of Elders of a…

The City of Grand Rapids is working to improve the Creston Neighborhood via improvements to Plainfield Avenue.  One exciting feature of the updates is the addition of seven bio-retention islands.  These islands will be part of the crosswalk across Plainfield and will feature stop-and-wait space to continue crossing.  We are excited for these improvements this…

What is Lent?  When did it begin? It is the period of time before Easter. Traditionally it is the 46 days prior to Easter. While observance of Lent is not commanded in Scripture, it is nonetheless very old, and very valuable. Though celebrating Christmas is not in Scripture, many still do. The observance of Lent…

The desire for meaningful and deep worship experiences at New City is a no-brainer.  I believe most churches would say the same thing.  We all want to encounter God, to connect with God.  So, how does this happen?  How do I, as the worship leader, facilitate this?  Can I?  Should it even be my responsibility? …

In 1786 Richard Allen became a preacher at St. George’s Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia.  This congregation was a mixed congregation, consisting of both black and white members.  Though Allen was restricted to preaching in the early morning services (as early as 5:00AM), he began to attract a sizable congregation of black worshipers. In 1787…