worship

Loving People More Than Religion

14 Feb ’12 By Christopher Hopper 6 Comments

Centro Cristiano in Brunete, Spain has managed to do something I very much admire. They’ve formed a Gospel Choir for their church.

Of completely unsaved singers.

The idea started as an outreach idea by the church’s elders, one of which is a dynamic Ukrainian singer and worship leader, Natasha (seen singing center-stage, bottom photo). They saw the choir as a vehicle to get people in their city excited about art, about sharing their love of music, and ultimately about exposing them to the church. As a result, these singers are being utterly surrounded by Christians, and therefore Jesus.

Jennifer and I had the honor of sharing the stage with the choir for our tour finale Sunday night. Their sheer joy of being onstage was contagious. Their radiant faces said all that needed to be communicated: thank you for including us.

I know many churches where such an idea wouldn’t fly, their devout stances on Christian standards getting in the way. And I can not fault them for their passions. However I do commend Centro Cristiano for their ability to include unbelievers in the momentum of their church, with the singular idea of building relationships.

This is truly a case of putting the love of people before the love of religion. Of the Church moving from evangelism by intrusion and invasion to evangelism by invitation.

Perhaps some of your own religious prejudices are getting in the way of answering the heart-questions of the very people you’re called to reach.

Sometimes all it takes is an invitation to come sing. ch:

[PICTURES COURTESY OF PENSA BRUNETE]

Filed Under: culture, leadership, music, worship Tagged With: brunete, Centro Cristiano, choir, evangelism, invitation, spain

God Spaces

6 Feb ’12 By Christopher Hopper 8 Comments

Last night Jennifer and I had the privilege of taking this stage in the mountain-ensconced city of Martigny. Christians from all over the region gathered together for their monthly night of worship, and we were so honored to serve them with our team. Jennifer in particular had some powerful things to share with the people and was used mightily in song.

One thing that impressed me was the Swiss team’s ability to transform an ordinary hotel ballroom into a house of worship. They worked tirelessly, imported a truck-load of gear, and managed to create an atmosphere where not only did people feel welcome, but the Lord did too.

Creating God-spaces in our lives is extremely important. They help facilitate moments of encounter and inspire long-term memories. Whether it’s a prayer closet, a stage, a forest-nook, or a church sanctuary, creating a physical space where people can connect with the Holy Spirit is not only something I’m passionate about forming, but God is too.

Of course His greatest space is that of the human heart. He’s very intentional about turning it from a dark, cold rock into a warm and inviting home. But he was just as passionate about prescribing specific instructions to builders of the Tent of Meeting – the Tabernacle – and the Temple.

What’s your role in preparing God-spaces? Being intentional with your preparations is not only good for you, but benefits those who are effected by your service. Minimizing distractions helps eliminate disappointments. ch:

Filed Under: production, travel, worship Tagged With: Church, design, environments, Events, God Spaces, Martigny, production, purpose, sanctuary, stages, switzerland, worship

Fait du Bruit

5 Feb ’12 By Christopher Hopper 5 Comments

Our first three meetings here in Switzerland have been joy-filled and boisterous. Or maybe I’ve just been boisterous. Either way, as the Swiss say, I like to “Fait du bruit,” or make noise.

This shot, care of Fredo Bovigny, is from last night’s worship event in Escale. As expected I soaked through my shirt within the first two songs.

Right now I’m sitting on a couch tucked amongst some mountains in Sion recovering from an amazing post-church meal (merci Pastor Sandy and Laureline!) and hoping this espresso buzz kicks in soon. Tonight Jennifer and I will be playing with our band for a regional night of worship.

Thanks for all your prayers! ch:

Filed Under: #heavenmeetsearth, travel, worship Tagged With: music, noise, switzerland, worship

Inspiring Awe with Your Passions

26 Jan ’12 By Christopher Hopper 4 Comments

Worshipping the Lord is a lifestyle.

Yes, music plays a key role, as does our response to it. Like it or not, the biggest book in the Bible is a compilation of song lyrics from an elite group of writers. Like a 4,000 year old version of ASCAP/CCLI.

But recognizing all the various ways we bring him glory is paramount in understanding the value of using our passions to bring him glory.

Glory is better defined as “things that summon awe” than the proverbial appearance of a mystic cloud of his presence (though there is Biblical precedent for the later).

Everything you see in this shot was constructed by extremely passionate people. To my knowledge, none of them are of a quality to perform a memorable singing solo, nor would they prefer the limelight to even attempt it.

But this stage set has inspired to many compliments – so much awe – that it’s assisted people in a very direct way of connecting with the beauty and majesty of God.

It’s awe-some.

Not awe-a-lot. That would be Jesus himself.

But our passions + “some awe” = a worship experience that points others to Jesus. That’s ultimately one of the greatest rolls you can play in life.

My heartfelt thanks to Megan Buckles for being Project Manager on this one; and to her husband Dave, as well as Zach, Trey, and Faith. Thank you for inspiring wonder in those who worship at New Life. ch:

Filed Under: geek, production, worship Tagged With: awe, craftsmanship, fission, glory, joy, passion, psalms, stage sets, talent, work

Life-Themes and Leadership Tips

22 Jan ’12 By Christopher Hopper 3 Comments

While it seems the subjects of “age” and “getting older” are the brunt of many jokes, we would be remiss if we didn’t reflect on the fact that God invented the process. As such, there are some incredible benefits.

One of which is seeing life-themes emerge.

Although Jennifer and I have certainly had some highlights leading worship for thousands of people, that’s not the context God places us in most often. Rather, it’s is ministering to rural churches that are on the verge of “epoch” change.

A life-theme emerges: encouraging people that the idea that God likes to do big things in seemingly small places.

It’s a joy to fly home from a trip utterly spent. And my time here at Hope Community Church in Marlette, MI will be no exception. This place is in the midst of transforming their town for Jesus, and further, their county. In one year they’ve already moved from one building to a bigger building, and are transitioning to two services in less than a month.

Two tips to seeing a local church have a massive impact through word of mouth:

1.) Love your community. Every person on a church’s leadership team must be sold-out, head-over-heels in love with their region. If they’re not, they need to get the Father’s heart, step out of leadership, or move. People in a region can smell hirelings that are not 100% committed to a locale, and as a result the church will never grow. As my Senior Pastor once asked me, “Are your feet planted?”

2.) Love whoever God sends you, and whoever God sends you to. I just heard a story last night where a church leader did a mailing but told his secretary not to include the addresses of a trailer park. That is so anti-Christ it made me sick to my stomach. Yet we all have a little if that in us and it needs to be confronted. Loving the unlovely will spark revival every time: it’s what Jesus did for each of us.

Hope Community’s people clearly love their community and are walking testimonies of Jesus’ tangible love. I’m thrilled to be here for their one year anniversary weekend. My sincere congratulations to Pastors Paul & Erin Rohling. I’m behind you 100%.

So if you’re ever in Michigan’s thumb, you’ll be blessed to visit a powerful church touching God’s heart. ch:

Filed Under: #heavenmeetsearth, culture, leadership, marketing, travel, worship Tagged With: Church, church growth, development, Erin Rohling, Hope Community Church, Marlette MI, paul rohling, strategy

Backstage Right

8 Jan ’12 By Christopher Hopper 6 Comments

Most people at New Life never see backstage right. And for good reason. It’s ugly. It has a work bench, cables, staging area, racks, shelves, and more odds and ends than we know what to do with.

Yet backstage areas have always been my favorite. There’s a sense of raw anticipation about them. That great things are prepared in these wings. It’s where strings are changed, cables are repaired, cues are made, and prayers are offered that will never be heard elsewhere.

To the public it’s objectionable, but to the performing artist it’s home.

My dad always told me growing up that the most glamorous jobs to the public are actually 90% grunge and 10% glory.

The myth of overnight success is just that – a myth.

People with anything worth promoting have labored and strived and crafted and honed and cried for years.

The public sees the 10% and thinks it’s 100%. So be careful not to make the same mistake when comparing your present creative circumstances with your eventual goals. Anything worth doing is worth taking your time and doing it right. Because your 10% will come.

Here’s to all those wading through the mire of the 90%. Enjoy the journey while you can – it won’t last forever. ch:

Filed Under: leadership, production, worship Tagged With: back stage, behind the scenes, dues, glory, grunge, labor, practice, preparation, production, work

For Those Who’re Watching

2 Jan ’12 By Christopher Hopper 18 Comments

Yesterday Judah and I worshipped together during third service at New Life. He’s often distracted by his older brother and sister, but since they were en route from Rochester with their mom, Judah’s singular focus was pretty neat to watch.

He would look up at me and do what I was doing.

It started with clapping.

Then some hopping.

Soon he was squinting his eyes, looking up at me to see what hand I was raising. I couldn’t figure out why he was squinting – honestly, it was super cute – until I realized I was squinting.

I couldn’t stand it any more and knelt down to hug him and tell him how good of a little worshipper he was being.

If you’ve felt convicted lately about not doing something you know you should be, please consider this: our deliberate efforts are often more about someone else’s gateway to success than our own.

While your actions may very well benefit you in some meaningful ways – financial, emotional, physical, or spiritual – they probably will benefit someone else far more profoundly.

So whether it’s the way you worship in church to that book you’ve always been getting around to writing to that exercise routine you’ve been delaying to that friend you’ve always said you’ll visit, do the people watching you a favor and start.

The best motivation is realizing some things we can’t do for ourselves. We can only do them for others. ch:

Filed Under: #heavenmeetsearth, culture, leadership, The Hopper Kids, worship Tagged With: actions, commitment, deliberate, dreams, judah, motivation, new year's resolutions, worship

When You Look

29 Nov ’11 By Christopher Hopper 1 Comment

Jenny and I were driving into church Sunday morning when I snapped this pic from behind the wheel. We had views like this pretty much the entire drive in.

Jenny was especially impressed because her natural sleep patterns (ie, “not a morning person”) don’t allow her to catch many sunrises.

So often the most beautiful things in life are happening all the time without us even knowing. Change when you’re looking is as equally important as where you’re looking.

“Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, ‘Surely the LORD is in this place, and I did not know it.’” -Gen. 28:16

ch:

Filed Under: #heavenmeetsearth, culture, pictures, worship Tagged With: advice, cars, Church, headlights, sunrise, timing

Heaven Meets Earth Hits Noisetrade

27 Nov ’11 By Christopher Hopper 6 Comments

If you haven’t taken the plunge to buy Heaven Meets Earth over the last year, I’ve put it up on Noisetrade for free. In return, you can help promote the album through your social networks, chose to give me a “tip,” or both. Whatever it means to you.

Man, I’m giving away all sorts of stuff!

You’re welcome. Merry Christmas! ch:

Filed Under: #heavenmeetsearth, music, news, worship Tagged With: CHB, free music, heaven meets earth, hme, noisetrade

Cornerstone Church

13 Nov ’11 By Christopher Hopper 4 Comments

Just a simple, loving, and very grateful shout-out to our new family at Cornerstone Church in East Longmeadow, MA. Dr. Tim and Debbie Moore, and all their amazing staff, went above and beyond the definition of hospitable.

Saturday evening’s service with Youth Impact was as powerful as it was memorable: who will ever forget Dillon plowing me over for his tissue box? Contend for you faith!

And this morning both jennifer and I felt overwhelmed by the congregation’s love and appreciation for our ministry in music and the teaching of the Word.

We look forward to a return visit. Much love and appreciation to you all. ch:

Filed Under: #heavenmeetsearth, live, music, news, speaking, worship Tagged With: cornerstone church, Dr. Tim Moore, east longmeadow MA, on tour, teaching, worship

Spent for Jesus

30 Oct ’11 By Christopher Hopper 8 Comments

Last night was glorious. And it took all I had.

The event organizers billed Saturday night as a concert, and we certainly started off in that vein. But after an hour of music, something happened.

I felt prompted to invite all the adults forward to pray for the youth. What I had imagined as a simple exercise in generational blessing, turned into a 2 hour session of impartation, repentance, and of adamantly seeking God. Many teens who – just earlier that morning – were non-enthused with being at the conference, suddenly transformed into passionate worshipers – weeping, shouting, dancing, and basking in the manifest presence of God’s love.

Even though emotions were running high, none of my band would hug me at 11:00pm when we ended, as my shirt and jeans were soaked through with sweat.

Many God-moments made, many memories shared.

This morning I had the privilege to lead worship at the host church, followed by yet another powerful message by Mark Pugh of England, head of Elim’s international youth movement. Joseph also sat in on drums and did a fantastic job.

I taught again in the afternoon, and then opted just to lead a few songs of worship to close (as they wanted me to preach the last session, but my voice literally couldn’t handle it). It took less than 36 hours for a group of largely complacent, if not well-meaning, teens to be transformed into Jesus-dedicated, soul-hungry, presence-seeking fools.

And I love every one of them.

Saying goodbye to Mark, Jesse, Ben-J, Joel, and Julie, as well as Pastor Christophe & Sanbine, was as hard as it gets. Because the more I do this, the more I value the people of God. That’s one reason why heaven will be so epic: all the people you adore in the same place at the same time.

Finally, this evening, Joseph and I were treated to an amazing meal of raclette by our hosts. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen Joseph so happy – definitely trumped kebabs.

Flying home tomorrow. Couldn’t be more excited about seeing my tribe. I think I preached about Jennifer and her love for God in every session. (You know you’re crazy for somebody when…).

Tonight I go to sleep utterly spent and exhausted, but for good reason: I’m convinced I must demonstrate to the next generation of French leaders what it means to worship God with everything you have. (I suppose that’s why Jenny packs me 3 t-shirts per day).

Bon nuit. ch:

[Photo credits: pics of me by Joseph Gilchrist; thanks to anyone else who was handed my iPhone in the moment]

Filed Under: #heavenmeetsearth, culture, music, travel, worship Tagged With: Ambilly, france, Mark Pugh

Geneva to Ambilly

29 Oct ’11 By Christopher Hopper 19 Comments

Yesterday Joseph and I drove from Clarens into the historic and always beautiful city of Geneva, Switzerland. So much to see, so little time. Ancient walkways, famed monuments, and landmarks of religious and political highlights of history.

We were treated to a fabulous real-Italian meal at The Spaghetti Factory (merci Ben-J), followed by a walk down to see the fountain of Geneva – an impressive plume of water that spouts hundreds of feet into the air.

That night, I ministered before an amazing group of youth (and spoke a lot about my wife). It was a wonderful time of basking in God’s presence, experiencing His manifest love, and taking time to pray for one another. I was really blessed by the display of genuine affection the youth had in praying passionately for each other; God move on their behalf, and all of us were changed.

Today kicked off the youth conference in Ambilly, France – source of our original invitation for this trip. It’s been a fantastic time solid teaching, practical worship training, a Q&A session, and touching heaven together as the Bride of Christ.

I’ve also met an older twin brother, Mark Pugh, of England (original from Wales). I think they just invited us because of our striking similarities and good looks. But seriously, his messages have been remarkable, simple, and very much about communicating Biblical truth through the stories of his life.

Tonight GodTV (dieutv.com) is filming our concert and all of us are excited to worship together and rejoice in our King. I’m so blessed by the senior pastor and his wife here in Ambilly, Christophe & Sabine Saez, as well as my remarkable band for supporting me so humbly. I’m honored to serve with them all.

A demain! ch: