Baptism, Event

On August 27th, we gathered as a people at Myrtle Edwards Park for our fifth annual BBQ and Baptisms! Seven people shared their testimonies of God’s radical grace in their lives and were baptized. What a stunning celebration highlighting the stories of people changed and changing by the good news of the gospel!

“I was rescued from a living death. I know today that there is nothing I can do to make God love me any more or any less. In Jesus, my sins are washed away” – Jessica

“God saved me, I didn’t save myself… God says that by faith in Jesus I’m saved and I can finally rest.” – Betsy

“I deserve God’s punishment for my sins, but Jesus saved me. He died on the cross for me – He is my Savior and He has authority over my life” – Diogo

“It’s amazing that the God of the universe who created everything would come down for me…” – Aaron

“I deserve God’s wrath for my sin, but Jesus bore that wrath for me and died for me on the cross” – Colin

“When we trust Christ, we are not defined by our relationships, we are defined by Jesus” – Nick

“God called me from death into abundant life with him…” – Celiz

Special thanks to all the communities and volunteers who provided food, came early to set up, and stayed late!

Baptism, Event

An invitation

I’m writing to invite you to join us tomorrow, August 27th, at Myrtle Edwards for our annual summer barbecue and baptism. The grills will be hot and food will be served at 6pm. There is no need to bring anything other than your friends and your appetite (Unless you’re part of a Cornerstone Community that is bringing food to share). At some point between 7:00-7:30pm I will share a brief gospel word which will be immediately followed by testimonies and baptisms. It is going to be a great night and a beautiful evening. I hope you’ll be there to join in the celebration. Every year I post something to remind us of what baptism means to whet our gospel appetites.

Origin of baptism

Baptism is a deeply meaningful event in the life of a Christian. In fact, it is a practice given to us by Jesus himself in Mt 28:19, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…” and reiterated by the Apostles, such as Peter in Act 2:38, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ.” In other words, baptism is Jesus’ idea and something he wants every follower of his to undergo. Have you been baptized as a follower of Jesus?

Meaning of baptism

But, what does it mean? Baptism is a dramatic portrayal of what happened spiritually when we first placed our trust in Jesus (Rom 6:4; Col 2:12). It points to the believer’s spiritual union with Jesus in his death, burial and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins and life with God, and God’s people, now and forever. Baptism does not create this union, but it shows, or demonstrates, the reality of that union that is now ours by faith in Jesus.

Beauty of baptism

So, no matter how long you have followed Jesus, do not lose sight of the significance, beauty and dramatic truth portrayed in baptism. It is a picture of passing through the waters of judgment to safety, through Jesus. It is a picture of leaving behind our old self, our old ways of life and eternity without God, through Jesus. It is a picture of rising to new life, a new family, and a new future with God, through Jesus. It is a picture of having all of our sin, guilt and shame washed away, through Jesus. This makes baptism a big deal and a call to celebration – and that’s exactly what we’re going to do.

Purpose of baptism

There are a number of reasons that Jesus calls his followers to be baptized. Let’s look at five, in no particular order. First, he wants us to experience the joy that comes with publicly professing our faith in Him. Second, he wants to strengthen our faith by having us symbolically participate in the death of our old life (going under the water), rising to new life (being brought out of the water) and having all of our sins washed away (full immersion). Third, he wants to encourage the faith of his people who are witnessing the testimonies and baptisms. Fourth, he wants to call others, who do not yet follow him, to turn from living for themselves and turn to him for forgiveness and relationship with the living God of the universe. Fifth, he wants us to experience his favor, blessing and peace that follows whenever we humble ourselves and walk in obedience.

See you there!

That’s probably more than you wanted to know about baptism, but it is spectacular isn’t it? Will you join me in praying for those sharing their testimonies and getting baptized later this week? Join us Thursday, not only to support those getting baptized, but for the good of your own soul – and those you invite. Event details and a map highlighting where we’ll be gathering is HERE.

Christ is all!
Pastor Adam

P.S. If you have never been to one of our summer baptisms, check these montages from years past.

Event, Serve the City, Service

On Saturday, August 1st, we had the privilege of partnering with Seattle Schools for our forth annual “Serve the City” event. This year, over 100 volunteers helped, giving over 500 combined man hours of time, to bring some much needed maintenance, groundskeeping, and painting to Bailey Gatzert Elementary School. Thank you to all who came out to help on such a warm, sunny day!

As a church, we’re committed to building a great city, and we desire to see Gospel renewal take place from the avenues to the alleyways. We not only want to declare the good news of the Gospel to Seattle, we also want to be good news to our city. It’s not about “giving back” but a tangible expression of the Gospel of Jesus Christ – serving as we’ve been served, in Christ.

Here is just a small glimpse into what was accomplished:

• Brightened the blacktop with refreshed game lines, foursquare, tetherball, international hopscotch.
• Tackled a huge weeding project in the garden, enabling the garden teacher to focus on planting with the kids.
• Moved a Big Brothers Big Sisters donation box to new, level gravel pad, creating a safer, more inviting donation experience.
• Weeded the playgrounds and mulched plant beds.
• Picked over dozen of bags of trash from the school grounds.
• Cleaned and primed the YMCA childcare room (and we returned two weeks later to finish the painting job!).
• Weeded and mulched the perimeter of the entire school building, empowering them avoid spraying pesticides.

Event, Serve the City, Service | by Pastor David Parker

Downtown Cornerstone,

Next Saturday on August 1st from 9am-1pm, we’ll be partnering with Seattle Schools to come alongside Bailey Gatzert Elementary to help with some much needed landscaping, painting, and maintenance as they prepare for this next school year.

I want to encourage us to not just let this be just another “church event,” but something that we’re collectively doing to love our city to life and invite others to join us. If you’re on the fence about coming next Saturday, or already have plans, consider canceling or shifting them to join us – seriously. There’s nothing that produces more joy and unifies us as a church than being of the same mind and heart, and working together to be all that God intended for us to be (Eph 4:16).

As a church, we believe that we’ve been infinitely loved and served by God, through the person and work of Jesus. Because of that, we believe that the good news of the Gospel is not only shared in word, but demonstrated in deed. Matthew 9:35 tells us that Jesus went from town to town not only teaching and declaring God’s kingdom has come, but as he went he met the physical needs of those around him. He didn’t just declare good news, he was good news. In the same way, we not only want to declare the good news of the Gospel to Seattle, we also want to be good news to our city. It’s not about “giving back” but a tangible expression of the Gospel of Jesus Christ – serving as we’ve been served, in Christ.

If you haven’t registered yet, or you want to point your friends to a page where they can learn more, you can do so HERE. Registration isn’t required, but it helps us plan well and make sure we’ve got enough team leaders and tools.

If you’re like me you may have questions, so we’ve put together a list of FAQs below to address as many questions as possible. If you still have a question, don’t hesitate to email , and we’ll get back to you.

For the glory of our King and the good of many,
Pastor David

REGISTER HERE

FAQs

WHY ARE WE SERVING IN THIS WAY?
The Seattle School District has only 5 groundskeepers to maintain 34 schools in the South Seattle school district. This leaves many of the schools without adequate funding and manpower to maintain the properties. As such, these schools heavily rely on volunteer efforts to come alongside and help maintain their properties and facilities.

Additionally, We asked Seattle Schools where their greatest need is, and they told us Bailey Gatzert Elementary School. The school is one of the most culturally diverse and impoverished elementary schools in our region. Over 90% of the students receive subsidized or free lunches and about 15% of the students are considered homeless. Because of the lack of attention and resources over the years, the school has experienced a overgrowth of weeds around the building and along fencing that needs some love and attention.

Event

Let’s head out of the city to the Concrete KOA at the base of beautiful Mt Baker. Whether you’re a city-dweller with a love of the luxuries or a hard-core hiker, there’s something for you! The campground has mini golf, basketball, lawn chess, volleyball, swimming, sauna, horseshoe pits, a playground, and fishing. The North Cascades Region offers recreational opportunities that range from easy hikes to strenuous climbs. Registration and details can be found on the All Church Campout page.

As the date gets closer, we wanted to answer a few questions about the day and invite you to join us:

I’m not sure what to expect. What will the weekend be like?

Our hope for the weekend is to enjoy each other and all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. With that, there are a variety of things to do so you can tailor your time to best fit your needs. Love to hike? Join in a planned hike on Saturday or get a group together to do your own. Camping with kiddos? Relax at the campgrounds while the kids enjoy the playground, jump pad, or hayride. Activities are still coming together, but in the meantime we’d encourage you to post your ideas on this City thread. Each night, DCC will host a campfire and provide s’mores for all. Meals will be on your own or with your “neighborhood camp” (see more below). DCC will host an optional morning devotional time on Saturday and a worship gathering on Sunday morning.

Where is the Concrete KOA?

The Concrete KOA is approx. an hour and a half north of Seattle, located at the base of Mt. Baker. From Seattle, travel north on I-5, take the Burlington exit to WA-20, and follow for approx. 23 Miles. Detailed directions here.

I’m on the fence about registering. I’m not sure because…

…I’m not sure I really love camping.
That’s okay! If sleeping on the ground isn’t your thing, get a group together in a cabin. Or bring an air mattress and enjoy the luxuries of our campsite, including a hot tub and free wifi. Or come up for the day. We’re certain you’ll enjoy your time, regardless.

…I don’t know a lot of people
As more new faces come to worship and do life with us as a church, it can be easy to feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t know people. The truth is we’re all in the same boat! This is the perfect opportunity to dive in to meet some new friends! No matter where you end up, you’ll be camping alongside tons of friendly people and we’ll have activities to guide your time together.

… I’m not part of a community.
This is slated to be our largest campout yet, so we are leveraging our communities (organized by neighborhoods) to coordinate some of the details. But if you’re not plugged into a Cornerstone Community, you won’t be left out – we’ll connect you with the neighborhood near you! We’ll cluster the tents by neighborhood in the large field (you’ll still be right next to other neighborhoods) and we’ll encourage “neighborhood camps” to coordinate meals or talk about carpooling. We’ll have some DCC-wide activities offered and your neighborhood camp may also opt to do some activities together.

…I need a ride.
We’ve got just the City thread for you! Post your need and someone will connect with you. (We are encouraging carpooling, as parking is limited)

What are my camping options?

We have two tent camping areas reserved, as well as cabins.

Tent Camping
Our main camping area will be in a large, private field, where we will group tents by neighborhood. This area has 2 portable restrooms and is approximately a 6 minute walk to the camp’s restroom/shower facility. We have an additional Family Tent Camping area located a short distance from the private field – these sites are are a bit closer to the restroom facilities and may provide a quiet bedtime option.The cost of general tent camping is $8 per person per night and the cost of family tent camping is $12 per person per night (children 18 and under are free for both). More details about tent camping can be found on the campout page.

Cabins
The 2 room cabins sleep 6 people and are located close to the restrooms (no bathroom in cabin). If you are interested in staying in a cabin, you must reserve with the KOA by July 2nd (after July 2nd, cabins will be released to the general public and are likely to get booked)! The cost for a cabin is $71 per night. Call 360-826-3554 to reserve and pay for your cabin.  Note: DCC will not be organizing groups for cabins – if you’d like to stay in a cabin, please reserve the cabin and coordinate other folks to join you! More details about cabins can be found on the campout page.

Sounds great! Where do I register?

Details and registration are here. We encourage you to register in advance via the form, then follow the link on the confirmation page to pay for your site.

I’ve registered. What’s next?

We’re so glad you’ll be joining us! We encourage you to invite friends, neighbors, and co-workers. The more the merrier – there will be plenty of s’mores to go around! Next, start coordinating with your neighborhood. If you’re part of a Cornerstone Community, connect with others who are going to talk about carpooling, gear swaps, or meal coordination. If you’re not plugged into a community, we’ll connect you with your neighborhood. Watch the City group for folks coordinating carpools, hikes, or other activities.

When should I arrive?

If you’re coming up Friday, you can arrive anytime between 1:00 – 9:00pm. If you’re arriving on Saturday, you’re welcome to come anytime during the day!

Where will I be camping?

If you’ve opted for general tent camping, we’ll be setting up camp in a large, private field a short walk (approx. 6-8 minutes) from the main restroom facilities. Because the field is a bit different than traditional tent sites, we’ll be encouraging folks to cluster with their neighborhood to make smaller “neighborhood camps.” You’ll be pointed towards your neighborhood camp when you arrive. If you’ve chosen the family camping, we have also reserved an additional tent camping area a short distance from the private field. You’ll also be directed to your campsite when you arrive and check in with DCC. If you’ve snagged a cabin, you’ll check in with the KOA office when you arrive.

What do I need to bring?

Basics include tent, water containers (no running water in the field), lantern or flashlight, sleeping bags, and food/snacks. Other packing items to keep in mind are bug spray, chairs, blankets, pillows, games, cooler, camera, sunscreen, etc. If you’re in need of gear, post on this City thread.

Note: A state-wide burn ban is now in effect! Fire pits and charcoal grills are prohibited. If you have a propane grill, please bring it!

Should I plan my own meals?

All meals will be on your own or with your neighborhood camp. We encourage you to coordinate with your camp to plan out meals in advance – it’s always fun to share a fireside meal! Also, don’t forget that DCC will be coordinating s’more time in the evenings. Note: A state-wide burn ban is now in effect! Fire pits and charcoal grills are prohibited. If you have a propane grill, please bring it!

What kinds of activities will there be?

The campground has mini golf, basketball, lawn chess, volleyball, swimming, sauna, horseshoe pits, a playground, and fishing. We are working to coordinate activities for the weekend, including games in the campground (basketball tournament, anyone?) and off-site adventures, such as a hike or bike ride. We will get you those details soon, but in the meantime would encourage you to post your ideas on this City thread.

I have more questions!

Have questions? Post them here!

Discipleship, Event | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

Ladies of DCC,

As many of you are aware, we are holding our first Women’s Discipleship Day on Saturday, June 6th – and you are invited. The full schedule, along with frequently asked questions (FAQ), are listed below.

Prior to his ascension, Jesus gave us a commission to “make disciples” (Mt28:18-20). Being a disciple of Jesus means living a daily, on-going, life of repentance (turning from self and sin) and faith in Him (turning to Jesus) and working that out into every sphere of life. So, discipleship is not a program, per se, but a lifelong process of learning to follow, trust, enjoy and become more like Jesus, while helping others to do the same. As a church we have five main pathways that facilitate this process: (1) Sunday gatherings, (2) communities, (3) discipleship groups, (4) membership and (5) training. The Women’s Discipleship Day falls into the last category.

The purpose of this discipleship day is to provide a unique opportunity for the women of DCC to meet and connect (since so many of you are new), consider what it means to trust Jesus together in our next season of life and ministry (see schedule below for topics), and re-ignite a passion for the supremacy of God in all things – even every day things. It is going to be a refreshing day. You will receive books, your parking will be validated, you will eat well, you will sing and pray, you will build new relationships, and you will be stirred afresh to trust Jesus in the every day together. The entire event is being organized, led and prayed through by the women of DCC. I really hope you can make it.

If there is anything that would prevent you from being able to participate (Don’t have $30? Can’t find childcare? Don’t know anyone?) please let us know and we will do all we can to address those obstacles – we’re that committed to making this event accessible to everyone. Please join me in praying for this day and, even more, for all of the women who will be participating. Laura West, one of the event organizers and staff, has put together the FAQ below. If you have any additional questions email: .

Christ is all,

Pastor Adam

P.S. We are putting something together for the fellas this fall. Stay tuned.

=======

Hey ladies,

I’m really looking forward to spending Saturday, June 6th, with y’all! As the date gets closer, I want to answer a few questions about the day and invite you to join us:

Q: I’m not sure what to expect. What will the day be like?

Our hope for the day is to grow together as sisters-in-Christ, equipped and encouraged for what God has set before us. Practically, this means the day has time set aside to meet and build relationships with other ladies, interactive sessions to hear about topics deeply relevant to us all, and space to take it all to Jesus. To give you an idea of what this will look like, a basic outline for the day is:

Breakfast and social
Worship and welcome
Trusting Jesus Together, Jen Sinnett
Q&A panel
Trusting Jesus in our Discipleship Groups, Tiffany Butler
Q&A panel
Lunch
Trusting Jesus in our Evangelism, Erin Dienst
Q&A panel
Prayer and reflection
Worship and close

Q: What is included in the cost of registration?

Your registration helps us cover the costs of this mini-retreat, including breakfast, lunch and refreshments, as well parking validation and materials for the day. We’ll also be giving away two books to encourage and equip you.

Q: Can I bring my friends?

Yes! This day is for all ladies seeking after Jesus.

Q: I’m on the fence. Should I register?

This is our first-ever event of this kind, so it’s understandable that many would be unsure about what to expect and if they should make time. Come! What do you have to lose? What would really stop you from spending a day with other ladies, growing together, learning about Jesus?

Q: Okay, I’m in. What’s next?

Register online in advance! We’ll send an email reminder the week of the event with details for the day. Encourage ladies in your community to join you. Doors open at 8:45am and breakfast begins at 9am. Come prayed up, expectant and ready for God to move. Park in the lot next to the building (for free). Give Jesus your concerns for the day and embrace all that He has waiting for you. Meet someone new and be known. Participate in the sessions and reflect on what God is teaching you. Ask Him to reveal Himself to you afresh and be ready with thanksgiving when He does. Sing loud because God is with us.

Whether you’re registered, still considering, or unable to join that day, I’d encourage you to pray for this time – it’s going to be good, by God’s abounding grace. I hope to see you on June 6th!

Community, City Life, Event, News

It’s time to dust off those sunglasses and stock up on the sunblock, summer is almost here! Throughout July and August we’ll be sharing life together through a number of events and activities. These events will not only be a great opportunity to grow together as a church, but an opportunity to get to know, love, and serve those that Jesus has placed around us. Mark these dates on your calendar and consider who you can invite to join us as we enjoy the summer in Seattle! Check back with us regularly, as we’ll be updating this page with links to more details.

All Church Campout | Concrete, WA
July 10th – 12th

We will be headed to the Concrete KOA for a weekend of community and fun! More info and registration coming soon.

Serve the City | Bailey Gatzert Elementary School
Saturday, August 1st

We are partnering with the Seattle School District for a day of service at Bailey Gatzert Elementary School. The more volunteers we have, the better we are able to serve this school so please mark your calendars and invite your friends!

BBQ & Baptisms | Myrtle Edwards Park
Thursday, August 27th

Join us for our 5th annual BBQ and Baptisms! We will gather at Myrtle Edwards Park for a BBQ followed by baptisms, to celebrate all that Jesus has done and is continuing to do among us as a people. If you are interested in being baptized or want to learn more, you can read more here.

Summer is also a great time to join in with a Cornerstone community! Communities will continue gather throughout the summer and enjoy all that this city has to offer. If you’re not connected to a community, we invite you to email  to get plugged in today!

We depend on volunteer support for all of these events! If you would like to serve the church by helping plan one of these events, please email .

City Life, Event

You’re invited (rain or shine!) to play in DCC’s 4th Annual Turkey Bowl. We’ll gather at Judkins Park on Thanksgiving Day at 8:00am for festive fall foods and a friendly game of co-ed flag football for those interested. We’ll also enjoy a sideline game of turkey bowling with real turkeys!

Basically, this is a fun opportunity to hang out on Thanksgiving amidst friends, lawn chairs, blankets, shouting fan(s), laughter and good food. DCC will provide coffee, tea, and bottled water and you’re welcome to bring a favorite fall breakfast treat or drink (coffee, hot chocolate, cider, etc) to share.

Don’t forget to dress warm and spread the word!

WHERE:

Judkins Park | 22nd Ave S & S Norman

WHEN:

Thanksgiving, Thu Nov 27th, 8:00am

PARKING:

Parking is free on holidays in Seattle. There’s a small parking lot, but there is also ample street parking on both the west and east sides of the park.

HELP:

If you are interested, we’d love your help with game logistics, set up, and tear down. Please email if you would like to help with this event!

Community, City Life, Event, News

Whether you’ve been running with us for some time now or are just beginning to check things out, you might be asking the question – what’s the best way to stay connected to all that’s happening at DCC? That’s a great question. Lots of ways actually. And we wanted to highlight a few of those for you this week!

#1 Blog and Website – www.downtowncornerstone.org

We are regularly updating our blog with events details, updates, answers to FAQ’s, and stories of the ways Jesus is at work in our church and across our city. If you’re reading this now, you’ve likely found our blog. That’s great. And we’d recommend checking back often for helpful info and snapshots into the life of our church here in Seattle.

#2 The City Network – dcc.onthecity.org

The City is an online social networking tool that we use to stay connected with one another throughout the week. It’s kind of like a virtual neighborhood. Event invites, casual meetups, prayer requests, and pastoral notes are just a few of the things you’ll find and enjoy about being connected to The City. To get connected to The City, drop by the Connect Desk on Sunday mornings or talk to your community leader. We’d love to invite you into our online network!

#3 Facebook – www.facebook.com/downtowncornerstone
Twitter – @DCCseattle

You’ll find a lot of useful information and updates on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Our desire is to make these channels useful as a resource for you to learn of creative ways to enjoy our city (e.g. festivals, spray parks, concerts, events), as well as keep you updated on what’s happening at DCC. You’ll also find regular quotes and verses to encourage your soul throughout the week. Like us or follow us online to get fun ideas, encouraging quotes, and event updates!

#4 DCC App – http://get.theapp.co/7c78

We are also thrilled to be able to offer our official DCC App! You can listen to past sermons, check out videos, read the blog, find a community, and even see the previous Sunday’s handout. Our app is available for iPhones/iPads, Windows and Android phones.

There are lots of great ways to stay connected! And if you are interested in learning more or even being a part of our newly-forming family in the heart of Seattle, we’d encourage you to visit us on Sunday mornings for our weekly gathering at 10am. You’ll get the best flavor for who we are as a people, what we value, how we do life together, and more by gathering us and getting connected to one of our community scattered across the city. For more information on our weekly gatherings or to get connected to a community in your area, feel free to visit our webpage HERE or email us at . We’d love for you to join us!

Baptism, City Life, Event

On August 26th, we gathered as a people at South Lake Union Park for our fourth annual BBQ and Beach Baptisms! Thanks to all the communities and volunteers who provided food, came early to set up, and stayed late. What a great celebration highlighting the stories of people changed and changing by the good news of the gospel! Below are some snapshots and quotes from the evening.

“I still sin, but I’m secure in His salvation because He died and took the penalty that I deserved” – Kristin

“I am forgiven, redeemed, adopted, and have a perfect, loving father, who delights in me” – Chaline

“I know completely that I cannot do life without Jesus: without Christ living in me”  – Philippe

“I deserve God’s righteous wrath but I have a perfect mediator in Jesus who bore God’s wrath for me” – Kim