The First “For the City Intensive”

Last month Dave Gibbons and a team from Newsong-Irvine and Xealot joined us for the first “For the City Intensive.” Newsong is a global church passionate about addressing the concerns of justice, advocacy, and the poor. Dave is the lead pastor at Newsong-Irvine and the CEO of Xealot, a program that identifies the next generation of leaders and empowers them with the tools and resources they need to live out their life’s calling.  As we heard more and more of this group’s story, it became increasingly evident that they are serious about seeking a renaissance of community transformation among the under-resourced. The encouragement that came from being in a room with a handful of like-minded people was a true blessing. Much of our morning was filled with discussion and celebration of how God is using the church in both of our cities.

After spending the morning talking, we were ready to be out in the community. A barbeque lunch with the neighborhood historian reminded us of the humble approach necessary as newcomers to an area rich in history. While visiting the local high school, where much of our involvement took root, we recounted the lessons learned as we sought to become a community that carried a burden together. We also touched on our experience in mobilizing a city to care for neighbors’ urgent needs; the importance of partnership with other ministries and efforts; and the challenge of living incarnationally as neighbors who love in deed and truth.

Our first Intensive proved to be a great time of sharing and listening, and we couldn’t be more thankful to have had this amazing group join us for it. These men said they were coming to see what FTCN is doing, but they left having greatly impacted the FTCN team and me personally. Before they returned to Irvine, they came into my home and richly blessed me through a powerful time of prayer for me, my family, and my team.

Here is some feedback we received from the Newsong team:

"What The For the City Network is doing for the city of Austin is creating a new paradigm for ministry. They have casted a sincere contextualization of the Gospel that every church can apply in some way. It was very inspiring." Tony Kim

"Love what The For the City Networkis doing in Austin. They are putting hands and feet to what a lot of people just talk about! If you have an opportunity, this experience will inspire you and your team. Our team loved this experience.” Dave Gibbons

If you or someone you know is interested in attending an Intensive, check out forthecity.org/intensives.