Worship in the Park began as an act of faith, stepping outside the norm, and committing to making God known in a tangible way. It is a simple idea that can take on spontaneous forms. The vision is to bring godly music and prayer into public places (like a park), to take action to show the love of Jesus to the streets, and be available for anyone seeking hope and peace that endures. Anyone is welcome to join in by bringing an instrument, song, or readiness to encourage. We change locations every week and send out a text on Monday to those who have shown interest. It is different every week, and that is very intentional. The Lord works uniquely in places and people to reveal different sides of His character. A pastor who helped shape this vision defined the Christian influence as this, “We’ve been designed as a resting place for the Spirit of God, changing every environment that we walk into.” We want to be part of influencing the whole city of Birmingham for peace, and that means we have some ground to cover!
This past year I served with long-term missionaries spanning four continents and eleven cultures – boy did we worship! What a gift it was to experience the variety of handmade instruments, lively songs, rhythmic dances and passionate prayers. Children were banging on tambourines as old men shuffled in the back to the drum beat. The room came alive with sound, and it was not always easy on the ears or on beat! I found my sweet spot in personal worship, in a soccer field in Swaziland, at sunrise before work and team time filled my schedule. Just music, the mountains and the One who made them. Throughout the year, I identified my timidity in singing or learning guitar through feeling like it was too late to try, or that I would be imperfect. Cue Jesus. He loves being our strength and shining through us when we realize we cannot do anything without the life, breath, creativity and freedom He provides.
So what’s holding you back from boldness? Did someone tell you that your time has passed to try new things?
We want to walk with you in the journey of discovering who is this Jesus, His unshakable love & loyalty to seeing you be who He made you to be. My prayer is that as people are walking their dogs in the park, playing Frisbee with friends, sitting within earshot of the music, that they might find Jesus.
We welcome you to join us one Tuesday evening at 5:30pm. Bring a picnic and a friend if you would like. Please text or email me in advance so we can update you on the location:
Margaret Kloess
(205) 447-3037