This is part of an ongoing series of introductions to the churches that are part of the PlantR network. In this post, Jeremy Self shares the story of Free Chapel.
Free Chapel is growing as a missional community of Christ followers who are leading people into a life-giving relationship with Jesus Christ, with a vision to impact Austin, TX and the world.
We dream of a church that will be a breath of life to those who feel lifeless, hope for those who feel hopeless, bridge of love into the community, light for those in darkness, people of irresistible influence, spiritually transformed people, uncomplicated organization, high-touch environment, low rules environment, place of acceptance, come as you are place, generous with the love of Christ, relevant to every generation with timeless truth, generous people, place where people discover God’s vision for their life personally and live it out through taking risks based on an objective source of truth
Free Chapel had it’s first public worship service in September 2008 at the Cinemark Theatre in the Hill Country Galleria. After the first year, we relocated Sunday services to Lakeway Elementary School, 1701 Lohmans Crossing, Lakeway, TX 78734. Our Sunday service is at 10:30 AM.
One thing we have learned since we launched is we are in a community (world) where people live very disconnected lives. We rush to work early. We rush home late. We are so busy we rarely take time to get to know those who live around us. Through learning more about culture around us, our vision has been clarified: Connect the disconnected. We are learning more and more what it means to be a church on mission together, how to love God, and love our neighbors well.
Essentially, there are three processes in place in our church right now. First, we have weekly celebration/worship services where we teach verse by verse (typically) through the Bible, sing together, and receive communion. Secondly, we provide ongoing, monthly leadership training for all of our dream team (volunteers) and small group leaders. Third, we have a growth track in place to assist people in reaching their potential. It begins by introducing them to the church vision, mission, and values, and ends with encouraging them to get involved in a small group. Each semester, we have at least 80% of our weekend service attendees involved in some type of small group.
Currently, Free Chapel is a church averaging 85 people made up of all different kinds of people who are trying to be a part of the unstoppable force God calls “the church.”
The pastor of Free Chapel is Jeremy Self. Jeremy credits his “papaw” for many of the life lessons he has learned along the way. In addition to some great mentors and formal training at Dallas Seminary, it was this up-close view of “papaw” that influences Jeremy most in his love for people, love for God, work ethic, and visionary leadership. From leading family and student ministries at Maranatha Church in Palm Beach Gardens, FL to preaching and teaching to assisting with two church plants, Jeremy has learned to lead through serving the desires and dreams of those on his team. Jeremy met his wife, Ashley, while in college at Lee University. They have four beautifully handsome boys.
To learn more about Free Chapel:
Free Chapel Website
Email: info@freechapelaustin.com
Phone: 512-553-6407
Free Chapel on Twitter
Jeremy Self on Twitter