Monday, May 10, 2010 5 Most Asked Questions: 2010 Update

As we've been sharing with people our heart for this generation and how we're planting Encounter here in Helena, we get a number of different questions. Here are some of the most common ones.

#1 WHEN DO YOU GUYS MEET FOR WORSHIP?

We are currently meeting for Encounter's Friday Night FWD on alternating Fridays in downtown Helena.

As we move into Summer, we are looking at monthly sneak-peak gatherings. Both are a great opportunity to just soak in the atmosphere and DNA of Encounter and how in a casual atmosphere, we seek to engage people with the uniqueness and creativity of God.

But also understand that for Encounter, the gathered worship event is only a part of who we are. Just as important as gathering to worship is finding ways to "do life together" as through LifeGroups and Fun Nights, and to Engage Culture through meeting the needs of our community.

#2 DO YOU HAVE A BUILDING? / WHERE ARE YOU MEETING?

We are gathering for Friday Night FWDs at 7pm at the 38 Dunphy Block building which is behind the Base Camp and across from the Mediterranean Grill. The top floor is a great location for both our edgy and loud worship, and for our interactive group discussions on life and faith.

#3 IS ENCOUNTER ONLY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE?

Encounter is emerging as a community that is welcome to young and old, believers and nonbelievers alike. Our intentional strategy is to design our gatherings and events for a younger audience. That's because we believe that experiential, relevant, and technologically-enabled gatherings are more likely to reach a younger generation AND also reach older adults — but the reverse is not true.

#4 WHAT IS A LAUNCH TEAM?

A Launch Team is a temporary team of people who serve to publicly launch a new church plant. Involvement in the Encounter Launch Team means serving in on Serving Team for just 6 weeks into launch. And while your commitment could be more, we simply want you to give of your time, talent, and treasure during that time. Here is what we expect during your commitment with Encounter.

1. To use your gifts and talents as part of one of our Serving Teams (i.e. setup, teardown, playing an instrument, greeting people, working with EncounterKids, etc.).
2. To participate in LifeGroup and Sneak Peak Gatherings.
3. To participate in Community Impact efforts.
4. To consistently tithe (Give Financially) the amount God lays on your heart each week/month.

#5 HOW CAN I HELP ENCOUNTER?

There are many ways you can help us reach this generation in Helena. Whether you live here or not, whether you attend Encounter or not, there are four key ways you can actively help us in planting and supporting Encounter.

1. You can become a prayer partner and/or receive Encounter eNews.
2. Your church can sponsor Encounter in various capacities such as financial suport, ARC sponsorship, equipment resources, and missions teams.
3. You can financially help us with a personal one-time gift or ongoing monthly support.
4. You can be a part of one of our Serving Teams or event join the Launch Team. (If you don't live here, God may be calling you to move!)
5. You can spread the word about Encounter with everyone you know. Forward our emails and newsletters. Communicate our needs to others. Direct people to our website and Facebook page.

These are just a few of the most common ways, if you've thought of another be sure to contact us and let us know.