Check out the Ecclesia Collective site (just redesigned!) for a new article Jason Evans and I wrote together, What Would Ian Do? In it, we discuss how the punk/DIY movement of the 80s and 90s (which was so formative for both of us) has much to say to those of us longing for a more authentic, grassroots expression of our faith.

An aside…

Fugazi is the best! I was just listening to The Argument while waiting two and half hours to cross the border back from Tijuana yesterday (another story, another time) and thinking how criminally underrated that album is. It was released back in 2001, but still runs circles around most of what is coming out today — the track Ex-Spectators is a precursor to bands like Battles and Foals.

And we’re back…

Jason and his wife Brooke lead the Ecclesia Collective, along with their intentional community at the Hawthorn House. As our family has gotten to know theirs, their friendship has been a Godsend. Their warmth, generosity and authenticity are a breath of fresh air. Although more is being said these days about the new monasticism movement, for the Evans family this is not about fads or trends. Within and through them, I can see the Kingdom breaking into our world.

I believe that churches and communities will be transformed not so much by the “celebrities” we encounter at conferences and on the big stage but by real people with their feet on the ground, following Jesus around the reality of their everyday lives.

I strongly encourage you to consider supporting their work financially. In doing so, you will support a ministry that impacts not only a local community here in San Diego, but also reaches people around the country (plus, you’ll receive their monthly newsletter!). If you’re in one of these neighborhoods, drop in and see them during their upcoming Justice Kitchen tour.