From the Inside Out

Tonight we filmed the video sketches for Saturday Night Life. We managed to get all of the shots we needed, and I’m really happy with the footage we captured. It was a productive evening — oh, and we managed to have a bit of fun too.

Now it’s on to the editing stage where Chad will work his magic, creating a Director’s cut for us to review. Expectations are high since last year’s show was so well received. I think we’re up for the challenge though — no fear!

The opening cast video will be similar to the one we did last year. It was shot “SNL style” with the camera moving quickly through the church until it locates cast members who happen

to be doing a few funny, and dare I say “uncharacteristic”, things along the way. I think we’ll have some genuine laugh out loud moments during that one, but I can’t give anything away so you’ll just have to wait for the show to see what I’m talking about.

I can tell you that we are bringing back Newt McNewsy, our roaming news reporter, for a couple of special interviews. Newt always seems to find the most interesting people, and he will travel anywhere, anytime to “bring the news to you.”

The Roxbury guys are also back — and this time they have a new friend. We captured some really funny stuff with these guys. And Chris, the “new guy”, was a good sport even when he was forced into dark, hot and cramped quarters that most people would complain about. It’s so nice to work with such a good natured group of actors. That makes my life SO much easier.

A few of our costumes for the live sketches came in today, so we also had a quick impromptu fitting. More pics are below…enjoy and don’t forget to mark your calendars for the live show on October 3 and 4 at 7:30 pm. It’s going to be great!

There are some days that stand out from the others, and today was one of those. I am incredibly proud to be part of the great group of believers at Abundant Life Church. Not only was the worship service this morning outstanding, but it was followed by a “fantabulous” night of fellowship at The Main Event in Plano.

As I walked into the building this evening, I felt at home immediately. This is my family, an incredible group of people that I am blessed to have in my life. Each person is uniquely different, yet we all share the same faith, the same love for God and the same love for each other. Are we all perfect? No, but therein lies the beauty of it. We love each other in spite of our differences — and sometimes because of them.

I had a blast tonight — talking with friends, sharing hopes and fears, laughing, playing laser tag and my favorite…extremely loud cheering! After the stress of the last few weeks (both at work and with PoP), it was nice to let go and enjoy myself without having to worry about a list of “todos” waiting for me at home.

Thanks ALC! You guys are amazing. I love each and every one of you.

It was an extraordinary day at Abundant Life Church (ALC). We had an amazing morning with the Clark Brothers, winners of the Fox TV show “The Next Great American Band”. These guys are really talented, yet anointed of God. I was blown away.

The Clark Brothers at ALC

They recently performed their version of “This Little Light of Mine” on American Idol. You can check it out on their official MySpace site here: www.myspace.com/clarkbrothers. It’s available for download from iTunes also.

The Clark Brothers are incredible musicians, but they are more than that. They didn’t just show up at ALC to perform; they came to minister. Before wrapping up, Ashley Clark delivered a heartfelt message about Jesus and His healing power.

If the day had stopped there, it would have been great, but wait…there’s more! This evening, ALC held a baptism service at a local natatorium. Thirteen people made a declaration of their face and were buried together with Christ in baptism.

Pastor Hennigan and Assistant Pastor Manning getting ready to baptize Greg (one of our “One Lifers” and drama team member)

It is so exciting to see new souls following Christ! This is what living for God is all about…it doesn’t get any better than this!

After hours and hours of practice, it’s all over.  The ALC NOW (Night of Worship) event has come and gone.  All that’s left is my sore throat and some good memories. 

The night started with a set of upbeat songs.  My favorites were “Promises” and “Solid Rock“.  The second set of songs were designed to slow down the pace and let people enter into a deeper worship experience.  My favorites:  “Here In Your Presence“, “It is Well/At the Cross” medley, and “Savior King“.  Saviour King starts really slow (the verses are a bit boring), but I like the chorus and ending.

We had two groups of Worship Team (front line) singers tonight.  I was assigned to the second set of songs, so I started in the choir, then transitioned out front for the rest of the night. 

Afterwards, we headed to Ricardo’s for a late dinner (Pollo en Crema…yum) and then went home.  I’m still working on the script for pirates.  There’s no better motivation for a writer than an impending deadline.  It should be finished tomorrow — just in time for casting on Monday, whew!   

Ever wondered what it would be like to sing for four hours straight? 

Well, I know…it makes your throat hurt. 

We met at 7 pm to practice for ALC NOW and wrapped up around 11ish.  Though it sounds torturous, we actually had lots of fun.  I could tell you all about it, but it would break the secret choir code of silence (haha).

If you don’t have anything to do tomorrow, stop by Abundant Life Church in Plano at 6 pm for the big night of worship.  It’ll be great.

So, besides making your throat hurt, four hours of singing and performing makes you tired, so I’m signing off with a short blog. 

Have a great weekend everyone!