Westside Story

Bay Area Fellowship, my home church, just opened up a campus on the Westside of town. The Westside is where the crime, gangs, prostitution, etc. have become so prevalent that it has driven out most all other churches in the area. You might be thinking, “What are y’all doing? It’s dangerous there! Nobody is going to come, let alone want to serve.” 

There are some amazing stories from the Westside already. You’ve guessed right though, we don’t have all the answers. So, it might seem we’re a little crazy! But that’s just it . . . we’re crazy in love for Jesus and His people!

My personal story has been a wild adventure with God. As He began stirring in my heart years ago, it’s amazing to know He was preparing me for such a time as this – to attend and serve at the Westside Campus! This Campus is right across the street from a pimping and prostituting hotel. Yes, this is different . . . more on that later, but seriously this is awesomely totally different!

As the attendee’s show up Sunday morning, I love meeting them at the door. Some families are so thankful to have a church they can relate to in their own community. As one new friend said, “This is a church I can actually feel at home in. I can come as me.” I see that as a huge compliment! 

Others are so full of mistrust they won’t look you in the eyes. Yes, some show up for free hot-dogs grilling out on the lawn, or for free donuts inside. And of course, it’s Westside, so some come hung-over and awfully sleepy. But no matter how they come – Hallelujah, they come. And come just as they are!

Sssssh – don’t tell anybody, but one of the girls from the community told me that she wanted to come back and serve beside me!That will be a glorious honor to serve Jesus beside her.

It’s amazing, these people are not only coming, they are being stirred to be more like Jesus!

Whoop! Whoop! Westside!