Posted by Al Ingham

So bucking the trend of Sunday nights and heading out to see one of New Zealand’s hottest new bands “Parachute Band”, we headed out to Arise church at Wellington Town Hall.

All I can say, within 6 minutes of being there, there was a real and tangible atmosphere of God’s presence. Whether you believe that or not is beside the point, because it was obvious that God was there.

It got me thinking. Why isn’t every church like that? I’m not saying that every church should be the same as Arise, but instead – why doesn’t God show Himself like that at every church? There is no reason why that atmosphere cannot be a part of every church service. With the lights, the music and a crowd of people all open and committed to worshiping God, there is no reason why not.

Its not about being Arsie church. It is not about going to Arise. Its about meeting God and God meeting people. And if Arise has something that is really working and connecting with people, then there are lessons that can be learned from them.

Thanking Arise church for opening my eyes would be hypocritical, instead; Thank you God for opening my eyes.