Well, my blog has been a little infrequent these last few days not because the time has failed to be continually mindblowing, but because the experiences have not been 'new'. That is, this week had a very similar schedule to last week's schedule--going to Matt's classes and all, seeing amazing speakers, hearing amazing music. It's been great!

On Wednesday, at the rehearsal for Sundays services, we found out that the whole United group (Joel Houston, JD, Nigel, Jad, etc.) along with Darlene Zchesch would be returning this week. Darlene sent a message to the 300 or so in attendance, that she was really looking forward to their annual Saturday workshop/retreat, which was full--over 500 people. The next day Matt and I were up in Tim's office at Hillsong (Tim is the production manager on all the Hillsong CDs/DVDs, if I didn't mention it in a previous blog). Tim happened to be working on the Saturday retreat, and was able to get us into the packed event.

So, this morning we headed to downtown Sydney early and reserved our spot at a banquet table in the reserved Dockside banquet room overlooking Darling Harbour from the second story. When we arrived early, we asked Tim if he needed any help with anything, since he had hooked us up, so last-minute. He asked if we'd run to Starbucks and grab some coffees. Gladly!! (Starbucks aren't on every corner here, like in the US). He told us he wanted a coffee and Darlene wanted a Decaf Soy Latte. He gave Matt some money, and my plan was quickly set into place. I told Matt to keep the money. I ordered Darlene's coffee and paid for it. I've got pictures!! I wanted to say 'I bought Darlene Zchesch a coffee', and so now I can. Don't get me wrong--this was not about a good deed or even kindness. No, this was a most selfish act, rooted in pride and an ability to boast. I bought Darlz coffee. That's right. Me and Darlz. We're tight.

When we returned United was set up in the banquet room. Marty led with JD by his side. It was great--really simple--as if I had got some friends together and set up a band in a banquet room. But, again...it was an amazing time. Darlene gave a wonderful, inspiring message for about an hour. Joel Houston gave an overview of their recent US tour. The featured speaker was flown in from another Australian city and challenged the Hillsong WACA (Worship and Creative Arts) team of 550+ to keep their hearts soft and their ministry rooted in tenderness and love for people. It was moving. Overall, it was good to see that this big machine that is Hillsong church--the CDs, DVDs, the big shows, the international following--all starts in this humble room, with authentic people who have a belief and a conviction that they are willing to give their very lives for. Darlene said it well: "I did not give up my life for music, or albums, or an industry. (She makes 3 'gag' sounds as she sticks her finger in her mouth.) I gave it up for the sake of my God." I have never in my life seen such humble people who have no earthly reason to be humble. They are not satisfied to be where they are--they are hungry for more, desperate to move forward. And, as with seemingly everything at Hillsong, it begins with the leaders and filters down to each and every person who is willing to be a part of such a cause.

Two more days to go...I'm looking forward to being back in Clovis.

Today was my second sunday morning at Hillsong. I went early with Matt as he and the band soundchecked. First off the soundcheck was amazing--so structured--so quick. I've got a thing or two to learn. Soon the worship leader came out for that morning (at Hillsong, you really never know who it's going to be week to week. They must have close to a hundred capable leaders). It was none other than Reuben Morgan. Yes!! He seemed like a cool dude. So kicked back, very non-directive. Just got up there and did his thing.

Before church began Matt got me backstage once again, into the preservice meeting which is for everyone involved in aspects of music/tech for that morning. There were probably 100 people in this room. Matt said he needed to go across the room to get some water. I followed him and the 'sunday morning director' soon got everyone's attention for a brief meeting. We stopped moving and people stopped talking, directing our attention to the speaker. We listened as he began to prep the group. After a couple of minutes I glanced over to my right to see where Matt was, only to realize that I was standing immediately to the left of Reuben Morgan. I don't care if you're in a church or at a sitcom shooting--when you see someone "famous" it is a bit surreal. It's also a wierd thing to think that I could approach him and tell him all about his work and career and he has never even seen me before--don't worry, I didn't. So as I was standing beside Reuben, whose music I have really enjoyed and whose ministry and career have fascinated and inspired me, I simply appreciated the moment of being next to a man who has done a great thing with his life. I know I don't 'know' the guy, but I know what I have seen and what I see is attainable--a normal guy with an international ministry and a love for and a success in music. Still, there are two things I can say for sure about Reuben without knowing him: first, he was an awesome worship leader this morning; and second, he was taller than I would have thought.

On the agenda yesterday was a trip to the city (Sydney). Matt and I boarded a train around noon and arrived at the Sydney Harbour before 1pm. Right off of the train is the Harbour bridge and the Opera House. Very cool. Shot a bunch of pictures of that stuff. From there we found a great little Irish pub and enjoyed the Celtic culture that Sydney has to offer. It actually felt a lot like Saskatoon there. Wierd how the Irish are so international. After enjoying a couple of traditional Irish beverages we hopped on a ferry to Manly Beach, one of the biggest tourist and surf beaches in the Sydney area. We walked around, shopped a bit, and soon headed back to Sydney harbour. Some of the swells in the ocean were so big that the ferry was at a 90 degree swing, 45 left and 45 right. It was pretty crazy. A few people were screaming--I was too concerned to make any noise. After arriving safely, it was time for dinner.

Matt and I had a kind sponsor tell us to go to a restaurant called "Wild Fire", on them. This was definitely a 4-star restaurant--perhaps 5-star. It was awesome! Matt and I entered the restaurant at 6pm when they opened. They did not have a reservation available until 10pm, but found a table to seat us until 8pm. A good looking couple were seated before us. They were dressed to the nines, the woman in a black evening gown and the guy in a suit. Matt and I felt a little awkward in our jeans and casual shirts, with our backpacks carrying our jackets and souveniers. Nevertheless we were sat! We started with Salt and Pepper Jumbo Prawns, then they brought out 6 tapas, and finally our main course with 7 different kinds of meat, along with potatoes and vegetables. We were gluttons. I had an 18-year-old Single Malt Lagavulin to cap it off. Perfect. Matt and I tried to be on our best behavior throughout the evening, but we could not pull it off. It reminded me of one week ago when I invaded the "first class" world. I don't know how you learn this world--It is a different one. But I'll tell you one thing--I like it. I like it a lot. The highlight of the night was when the French server, who obviously struggled with the English language a little bit, replied to my 'Thank you', with a "Sank you foe you". I suppose the average '5 star/first class' patron, at that point, would try to understand that the frenchman is really working hard to grasp this second language, a very difficult thing, offering much grace to the server. But Matt and I are not these types of patrons. Instead, it felt like I had a case of the 10th grade giggles. I held it together for about 10 seconds as the server left. Then, just as I was calming down in an effort to swallow the water which sat in my mouth from a sip I had just previously taken, Matt decided it would be a good time to break the silence and crack a joke, to which I responded by uncontrollably spewing the mouthful of water onto the glass wall/railing in front of our table. Then we left...quickly.

Matt and I walked around downtown Sydney to end the evening and hit a starbucks before heading home on the train. What a great day!

Yesterday night was "Powerhouse", the college/young adult church service, which apparently I am too old for (18-25). It was a cool experience. First off, all of youth (Jr, Sr, Col/YA) meet on the church campus at the same time. We are in the Hillsong main room and the other groups meet in other rooms. The environment is electric in the Hillsong auditorium. I think Michael Jackson, or C&C Music Factory or something was playing--something unexpected anyway. Lights going off everywhere--a real club feel. Then it was time for music/worship. Apparently they brought in extra subs and put them on the floor for the college service, because you could feel the kick drum and bass through your body. IT WAS AWESOME!! Our buddy Leo was mixing on the sound board, which is about 15 feet long and 7 feet wide, and he killed it--dialed it in! They played From God Above and The Stand and a few other songs. Then they had a challenge. Basically this is the time for 4 guys to risk their health and safety in front of 800 people cheering frantically, for no real prize. Apparently they do this every week. This week the guys climbed to the ceiling from the floor on a hanging ladder, as fast as they can--I'm talking 3 stories. It was fantasticly entertaining. The theme of the night was 'remembering the days of highschool', so 3/4 of the people there were dressed in school uniforms. the guys in particular played it up and looked awesome--big plastic glasses--super short shorts and shirts and ties. pretty funny stuff. the college pastor was hilarious and presented his message in the form of an interview with some of those present. it was good. the night finished with a song and then returned to an electric club atmosphere where a DJ spun old-school hip hop and R/B: Toni Braxton, Ol' Dirty Bastard, MJ, Snow--It was a blast to see. You can't help but start to shake it when Rapper's Delight comes on.

I returned home after a regrettable McDonald's experience downunder. Matt and I began putting together a tech plan for the MVCC youth room. Seeing all this you begin to realize that there is so much more we can do to make church an exciting place for people to be and to bring their friends--especially youth. I'll tell you what--threre is no where else I would want to spend my Friday nights that at Powerhouse if I lived here.

Well, off to the Opera House today. Maybe a ferry ride with Matt ;) Some dinner, drinks, and who knows what else?? ...Church tomorrow.

Ok, so it's day 3 or 4 here.  Pretty amazing experiences so far.  I am basically just shadowing my buddy Matt Berry to his classes.  We are having a great time philosophising, theologizing, and catching up.  We are also finding lots of time for online poker and I find an amazing amount of satisfaction watching Matt lose because of the 'computer' or a "bad call". 

Today Matt and I scheduled United's (the band) studio sessions in October/November/December for the upcoming album.  I've got pictures.  I can tell you that Marty and Joel will be in 'The Grove' studio on November 8th if you want to stalk them.  Today I was a little nervous as we sat just outside of Darlene Zchesch's office.  She wasn't on campus today, but you could feel the glory from beyond her office door :)  I watched out of the corner of my eye just in case someone might have made a mistake, and I might catch a glimpse of her.  I'm a little envious of Matt since Darlene knows him by name.  He's hoping she comes by when we're together so that I'll hear her say 'Hi Matt'.  There is a joke/rumour going around Matt's campus that Darlene bought him a blazer to wear on Sunday mornings.  It's pretty funny....  It's wierd to have rockstars (or the Christian equivilent) in your midst.  Kind of awkward.

I have been spending my time here in a variety of ways, but my alone time has been particularly significant thus far.  I am really taking this opportunity to feed myself spiritually.  I had a great time of reading, meditation, journaling, and prayer this morning.  I felt really strengthened, enlightened, and fulfilled as I began my day after an uninterrupted, uninhibited time alone.  This was followed by an amazing teacing time by a guy named Lee Burns, probably in his early 30s, wise beyond his years.  He spoke about endurance in life and preparing for disappointments, adversity, and temptation.  In sum, the main point that was most challenging to me: 'The more we endure the difficulties of life, the more power we will have to live in victory that is not governed by our circumstances'.  Hmm...looking at this summary, I realize that it does not convey adequately what I took from Lee, but I suppose if you were to ponder the thought as it relates to a difficult circumstance or challenge in your life, it would carry a significant personal impact for you.  It's a great Truth. 

Well, it's evening here and we haven't eaten dinner yet.  --aside--You wouldn't believe the cost of food out here.  In a restaurant, you will pay twice as much for anything.  A coke is the equivalent of $2 US in any coke machine-- Anyway, we're gonna go eat.  Then it's time to get back to the computer and see if there's any way I can get tickets and flights out to Hawii on December 9 for the final U2 concert of the Vertigo tour, which was just announced and will go on sale on Saturday.  Yippee! That would be the third of this tour.  I'm trying to convince Matt to buy a ticket since they are coming to Sydney for 3 shows in November. 

Well, good night all.  Much love down-under.

-g

Well, I arrived in Sydney approximately 24 hours ago, on a 747 which in and of itself is not anything out of the ordinary for those traveling to Sydney. What was out of the ordinary was that I was at the very nose of the plane, sitting in some fairytale land they call... uhhh... 'First...Class' --yeah, first class, I think. It's an amazing environment of neverending food, drink, entertainment, and comfort. For those of you who have never flown first class--you have no idea what I'm talking about. For those of you who have--you are all jerks. Thing is, I'm getting a little sad, even early on in my trip, because I know in 2 weeks I will have my last first-class flight ever. I'm choking back tears right now. Why does there have to be that seperation in our world--that black curtain--that better lavatory. I'm gonna change things around here! I've got my girlfriend working undercover as a flight attendant to get this change started. Soon, we'll all fly first class. Amen.

So my first day here was a Sunday which means I got to go to the morning and evening Hillsong services. It was awesome. Everything about it was spiritually uplifting, but beyond that--the acoustics, the esthetics, the giftedness, the way every little thing was taken care of--the attention to detail. It made a worship service so easy to enter into. Exciting even. This is the place where you want to be. This is the place where you would want to bring your friends to. Multimedia announcements, excited MCs, faithfilled prayers--these people were not ashamed to put it all out there. The thing that struck me the most was not the amazing music (which was AWESOME!!! for the record), which suprised me. The most amazing thing was the enthusiasm and level of expectation, excitement, and challenge that came from the stage in the speakers and MCs. Every service an MC (a pastor, really) gets up and gives a 5 minute sermon (intro to offering) on giving. But it is not a throw-away thing. It makes you want to give. There is testimony to how God has used generosity in their midst. There is a bible lesson. And there is a spiritual excitement that decends upon the people, that their gift can and will change somebody's life. And that's just the offering. That's not even the part of the service where 2000 people are praying out loud at the same time, against sickness in their congregation, and for specific people--laying their hands on strangers next to them. Nevermind the altercalls--feels like a Billy Graham crusade every service. And the music??? Well, let's just say it's very cool to go into a church who writes all their own music, and to know every lyric, every snare shot, every guitar solo--I even heard them screw up on sunday morning--YESSSSS!!! I asked Matt, who plays sax on stage, did the worship leader go an extra chorus when the band was going back to the verse. Yup. They are human!! Well, I'm sure this enthusiasm won't hold up forever, but while it does, I will be posting,

I have one friggin' subscriber to my blog...It's a truly humbling experience to begin a myspace account.  Well, here I am watching game 4 of the Oilers/Red Wings.  No one down here cares about hockey.  Just me and Chloe (the golden retriever).  Uhhh...I don't see her...hmmm.  Well, I guess it's just me here...hope she didn't run away (again). 

Well Matt, since you're the only one reading, I can profess my love for you openly.  I'll see you In July.  My flight is confirmed: July 28-August 14.  That's three Sundays at Hillsong!!  Yeah baby!!!  I can't wait.  It's gonna be a tough summer--Africa and Australia--yikes!  

Rick Berry called--he wants his status of 'International Man of Leisure and Travel' back...I think I'll keep it through summer.

I declare it publicly: it's the global "Summer of Garth". 

Amen, and Amen.