One: believing in and following after Jesus is essential to a relationship with God, purpose in this life, and eternal life to come. This is hindered by our bad choices which the Bible calls sin. Jesus offers us a gift, forgiveness and restoration, that can't be earned by being a "good person." We receive this gift by putting our full weight (think faith) in Jesus alone for salvation. We do not nor cannot merit this gift. It is given by grace, the unmerited favor of God.
Two: that involvement and membership in a local group of people who are also following Jesus is central to a growing relationship with Him, ourselves, and others. This is not being a fan, church is not a spectator sport, rather it is being the church, a people that has places to meet, but are not the places themselves.
Common Places Church has a rich history and passion for college students starting from its founding, opening of a coffee shop church location, and committing staff and resources to help LHU students trust Jesus, be transformed, and start churches. How does this committment and these values get applied in college ministry?
Trust Jesus - Whether discovering the reality of who Jesus is for the very first time, or learning to put the full weight of one's life in Jesus, trusting Jesus is fundamental to all of life.
Be Transformed - Jesus loves us unconditionally, accepting us into relationship with Him not based on what we do but what He has done. This means that our old way of doing things changes as we adapt into and become a part of God's family. A new life as a member of the family of God means new attitudes, ways of thinking, being and doing.
Start Churches - Once you begin to experiene the family of God you naturally want to invite others into community; that is to trust Jesus and be tansformed by Him. This results in new family groups, what the bible calls Church. Churches are people who have trusted Jesus and though they gather, are not just the gathering or service.
Major: Nursing Class of 2023
Favorite food: Huevos Rancheros
Color: Blue
Game: Dutch Blitz
Craziest thing you have ever done: Driven from Mexico City to Cancun in a 15 passenger van with my family.
Top on your bucket list: Visit all 7 continents
Why common place: From the first time I interacted with Common place it has felt like a true family. The congregation welcomed me in and I found family and friends and a community that would build me up and help me grow on my journey to follow Jesus. I also admire their mission to trust Jesus, be transformed, and plant churches and hope that as a college student I can be a part of this mission by reaching out to other student on LHU’s campus.
Major: Communications
Favorite food: Chicken Alfredo
Color: Blue
Game: Chess
Craziest Thing I Have Ever Done: Not put my faith in Jesus
Top on your bucket list: Create foundations and charities to promote Jesus and serve the lost and poor.
Why Commonplace: Commonplace felt the most like home to me within the first couple months on campus. The college ministry is very strong in this church so it’s easy to see other students on Sundays and Wednesday night Bible studies. I have learned a lot from the people that are in the church. I am excited for the future here!
Married for 25 years, Bill and Heidi have dedicated their lives to working with college students. Whether fun events, moments of crisis, or learning about Jesus, they have a deep desire for students to trust Jesus and be transformed resulting in students telling their peers, professors, and people everywhere about the life changing reality of Jesus.
Bill loves most of all Heid, his kids, hanging out with students over coffee, the bible, questions, reading books, or having a fun time in general. He loves the Mandalorian, Star Wars, and watching movies.
Heidi is a Jr. High Spanish teacher. She grew up in Mexico as a missionary kid. She loves Latin music, Mexican food, and long walks.
Together Bill and Heid have 5 Kids.