Information: ONLINE EXTRA: What do you think? You can visit and share your thoughts or opinions about this story. The goal for Waters Edge, according to its organizers, is to create an opportunity for worship that will leave visitors thinking, “Wow – that was church?” He also tries to include zest and humor in his message. Hodges tries to convey biblical passages for a modern society. Videos, movie clips and artworks are displayed on the church’s big screens, and skits are performed on stage.įor the holiday season, scenes from the movie “A Christmas Story” were brought to life on center stage through this past Sunday. You kind of are: The Waters Edge Band opens the service with secular music produced by electric and acoustic guitars, drums and strong vocals.Īs Hodges says, “We’ve got the best free show in town.”īut the “show” doesn’t stop with the music.Ī creative approach continues throughout the sermon. Some people say there’s excitement in the air, much like standing in line for a concert. First-time guests might wonder whether they’re in the right location for church. Upon entry, the lobby is abuzz with conversation and hearty laughter – perhaps ignited by the Starbucks coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts offered before services. Visitors are greeted by enthusiastic volunteers, who direct them to available parking spots. You know that you’ve hit the religious road less traveled when you pull into the parking lot. “You really get connected with people and the church through its community groups, and that’s a strong point of what has kept me there.” “I went out on a limb and joined a community group about six months after joining the church,” Christiansen said. The groups have 10 to 12 people who meet once a week to pray, discuss the Bible and to form friendships. These are described as predictable environments where people experience authentic community and spiritual growth. The church encourages members to join one of its community groups. I really agree with the church’s structure and their vision.” I like Stu and how he brings the message around. Some friends invited him and his wife to join them for a service, and though he wasn’t looking to join a church, he did.Ĭhristiansen said, “The comfort level and the lack of intimidation were the selling points for me. ![]() Eric Christiansen has attended Waters Edge for the past four years. Like many churches, Waters Edge attracts members through word of mouth. What began as a congregation of 50 has grown to about 800. Because we’re so new, we haven’t had years and years to build capital, and we have to buy big because we’ve grown so much in such a short amount of time,” Hodges said. The church recently purchased land for its own building, which will be in Grafton off Route 17 and Freedom Boulevard.
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