In these times of church individualism and isolationism, three Houston pastors, have chosen to join forces to meet the needs of marriage and singles ministries in the Houston area, and are inviting other pastors to join with them. Pastors Gregg Patrick, Remus Wright and Reginald DeVaughn, (The Bridge, The Fountain and The Lake), have come together with their congregations to present a benefit event, which will bring together not only Christians within the church, but also unbelievers and un-churched of the world.
The One Heart Valentine’s Day Benefit Gala and Dinner, with Maze, Featuring Frankie Beverly and Kelly Price, will be held at the Hilton of the Americas, Thursday, February 14th, at 7:00 PM. Heralded as an event which will bring all people together, not only to enjoy the festive spirit of love within the season, but will also show forth the love of our Savior toward the entire world? Pastor Patrick of Southwest Community, The Bridge, started the effort four years ago, as a fundraising benefit for the churches’ school and youth sports programs. The event has also been used as a means of bringing together the singles and marriage ministries of his church; to take advantage of great entertainment and Christian fellowship.
This year, the event leaps to staggering heights, as the three churches combine to compel the saved and the lost to come together and enjoy great fellowship, without secular spirits being served and consumed.
Pastor Remus Wright, along with his wife and co-pastor Mia, lead The Fountain Of Praise, and sponsor Metamorphosis, one of the largest women’s conventions in the state (March 6-8). Pastor Wright stated, “This is an effort to search out those who have been lost in the shuffle of faith, and to let them know how the church is not hiding or hypocritical regarding their status as current or potential believers. I’m excited to share the opportunity of reaching people with the good news of Jesus Christ in such an innovative way. Wright went on to say, “I’m equally excited to bring together these dynamic churches in a spirit of oneness, in an age in which churches seem to be in competition and conflict. We’re not just reaching out, we’re reaching up together.’
Each church has their own annual efforts, but have come together in this unusual event to not only show unity, but also bring a greater closeness and clarity to the work of the church. “Pastoral friendship is wonderful, but we didn’t do this because we’re friends; we came together because it’s time for churches to work with one another, not against one another,” Patrick added. When asked to comment on some who question whether the church should sponsor, pursue or attend such events, Patrick said, “A broad line seems to be drawn in the sands of faith, which is keeping the world away from the church, and the church away from the world.”
Pastor Reggie DeVaughn, who leads thousands at the Silverlake Church of Pearland stated, “Some critics have suggested that the church should stay aloof and separated from the world in service and entertainment. But even Jesus recognized that hypocritical stand, and chided the Pharisees when they accused him of cavorting with harlots and sinners, and said, “I came to call sinners to repentance, not the righteous.”
“Our marriage ministry is so excited about this, in fact the entire church cheered even louder, when we announced we were doing it with The Bridge and The Fountain. There’s a fresh, new Spirit of unity in the air, and this event is evidence of it,” said DeVaughn.
Wright went on to say, “This event is to show that a collective effort from Pastors alike can collaborate and work together for one common cause. That common cause is to help bring lost believers to Christ. Many may say that it’s a very different kind of event (than normally) given by pastors, but others will realize that this Benefit Gala is about love, support and fellowship; and that is our focus. I’d like to think that we’re doing things in a unique and special way, and many will appreciate our efforts.”
Patrick then said, “Our churches have become so paranoid of the world reclaiming our membership, that we have ignored venturing out, and have insulated ourselves, and remain indifferent to many of the needs and questions of the world.
“Our church members may not openly admit it, but they enjoy good secular music and attend concerts as well. To me, there seems to be nothing wrong with the church organizing effort for singles and couples to enjoy these events together” said Patrick.
Described as a part of the great commission, and a strengthening factor for the inner fabric of family and singles ministries, all three churches are spearheading the promotional effort.
This is an effort of unity, said Wright, who pastors one of the largest majority Black congregations in the city, “it’s meant to cause the church to take a look at itself, and begin to broaden its spiritual thinking and escape “the small box” of exclusivity in with it has placed itself. It’s time to think outside the box.”
Q. Indeed the great commission is “to go out into the world, and teach all nations…” is this event a continuance or a hindrance to that effort?
Patrick. In all honesty, I don’t see how you could call it anything but a continuance of the “Great Commission.” We’re not going to some strange, clandestine nightclub to cavort with evildoers, in lasciviousness. We’re going to a five-star hotel, to see two of the most exciting, love-ballad singers of our time, and contribute to a worthy and noble cause at the same time.
“The children the Gala will benefit have been lost in this theological discussion. Hundreds of young people will benefit from the proceeds of sales and the Silent Auction, to be held that night at 6:00 PM, prior to the dinner.”
During the auction, artwork and dozens of autographed sports memorabilia will be auctioned off in support of the school. Hall of Famer, Calvin Murphy, former Globetrotter Jimmy Blalock, and other national sports personalities, are contributing their efforts to the auction.
The Gala boasts itself as a complete package for loved ones, on Valentine’s Day, providing not only a three-hour show, but a box of chocolates, a rose and complete dinner consisting of salad, crab and chicken and scrumptious chocolate desert.
“It’s been determined that most people spend a minimum of $200.00 for Valentine’s Day; flowers alone are up to $125.00. The Gala will give a couple or single everything they need for a memorable occasion, without the use of “other” spirits, Patrick said. There will be no alcohol served on the entire floor where the gala will be held. Tickets are only $100 if you buy early and even a dinner seat near or at the stage is only $150.”
“We are inviting all pastors to join us in this united effort through being a part of our “Pastor’s Support Team,” and receive a front row table for their support. Marriage and Singles ministries can also call for a table, and receive a discount, and a reserved table.
Tickets are on sale at all three churches at a discounted rate, and also available at TICKETMASTER. Interested pastors, administrators, donors, and all marriage/singles ministries may call 281-983-LOVE for more information, group discounts and sponsorship packages.
