hillsong & sisterhood

As many of you already know, I've had the privilege of attending services out here at one of the four Hillsong South Africa campuses here in Cape Town. Hillsong Church Century City had four services every Sunday, the first three a morning service with the same message and the last was a different talk that started at 4:30 in the evening. The church has arranged so that the major universities in the area (Univ. of Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and the Western Cape) all have shuttle transportation to the evening service, so the young adult presence is very high. I have also heard that a lot of the other prominent churches in the area have our Jammie buses arrange transportation to their locations as well, I am so thankful for these services.There are typically eight full-sized buses that transport UCT students every Sunday, and I'd estimate that is right around 300-400 students from my university who attend. 

And, as of just last Sunday evening, they have split the evening service into two separate times to better meet the space requirements for all of the people who like to come. There is nothing better than when even the overflow sections start to overflow.

The first week I attended, this was one of the "centerpieces" in the foyer area. They've got some great, creative decor and it all makes you feel so welcomed.  One of their main motifs if just that; a place where you can call home.

  The Pastor is Phil Dooley, originally from the base church in Australia but was sent out several years ago to pastor the new locations out here in South Africa. He is hilarious, very creative, and seems like an outstanding man. His wife is Lucinda Dooley and super awesome all together. They are currently in a series called heroes in which P. Phil interviews and dedicates a service to some real-life heroes. Below he interviewed a long time friend of his, who also happens to be his father-in-law.

This past weekend was a well-anticipated event for all the women (and younger girls) of Cape Town, a ladies ministry event called Sisterhood. Pastor Reggie Dabbs, a motivational speaker and jazz instrumentalist from Texas, was the guest speaker and was quite a riot. Had a blast joining together in such a great manner. And we got some super great seats!!

All of the male volunteers wore pink aprons. Guess who's camera flash went off when trying to sneak a picture...

i do not own this photo

Though I'm always willing to check out some other churches in the area as well, it's been so enjoyable worshiping, learning, and growing with this dynamic group of people that is Hillsong Church.

I'll leave you with a good snapshot of how most evenings end. Still trying to figure out where this came from, but after closing out the services a bunch of guys hop on stage for a "little" dance party... and a sea of people join the party. Check it out: