What's in a Church Name?
We've got a new name for History Church starting in March... Matt and I are surveying strangers with it [against a few fake names] tomorrow at the Town Center. This is a bitter-sweet change for me to experience because I love our name... but there's a greater purpose behind it. And our people are 100% behind the decision.
I'm currently reading Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz's book Pour Your Heart Into it and was inspired by the story behind their name. Originally called Il Giornale, Starbucks changed its name to help customers pronounce and understand it more easily. Il Giornale, which means daily, was Howard's connection to the Italian cafes that inspired his concept.
But he chose to adopt a name that would bridge well to American culture... Starbucks it was.
I really loved that book. There was a lot of great stuff in there as he shared their story.
I think the book also explains why Peet's has such a good roast.
Posted by: jason allen | December 06, 2006 at 09:57 PM
I am about to finish that book. It is a great read. The book is good read for church planters because of its view of maintaining the core values and message while growing.
Great book!
Posted by: eric wright | December 07, 2006 at 08:00 AM
eric, have we had a conversation about dayton, ohio? that's where I grew up, went to college, learned how to do church...
Posted by: Ben | December 07, 2006 at 05:30 PM
No, I don't think we have had a conversation about Dayton. I grew up here too, saw how NOT to do church, and left to go to college (after a year at Wright State). I was gone for about 13 years earning a master's degree and working in or planting churches, and recently moved back at the invitation of a pastor friend to plant a church.
How about you?
Posted by: eric wright | December 08, 2006 at 07:46 AM
Eric, my dad pastored a small church in tipp city ~ very close to Ginghamsburg.org, where their approach to church opened my eyes... I attended ApexCommunity.net during my 2 years at Wright State, where Rob Turner's communication style impacted me... some good experiences for me there, but i probably won't ever be back. =)
Posted by: Ben | December 08, 2006 at 11:03 AM
Be careful, that is what I swore at one point too. I made it 13 years before God changed my mind.
Posted by: eric wright | December 08, 2006 at 03:09 PM
eric... that... or you did something wrong. =) I'm just kiddin
Posted by: Ben | December 09, 2006 at 08:03 PM