Editorial
W
RISE - LEAD HIGHER BY TOMMY KYLLONEN
atching the news, watching social media and
We need action. We must move. We must RISE! What is one thing you, your church
our local churches can really bring us down. As our
a group of people that minister to teens in the Juvenile Detention Center each
watching scenes play out in our cities and even in
culture’s morals and standards continue to lower we can get tempted to dumb down ours as well. It’s easy to compromise, tone things down and just go with
the flow. We’ve watched more and more church leaders burn out and fall. It’s like we expect it will happen. It’s been a challenging season as we’ve seen politics,
terrorism and discrimination divide us more than ever. So what’s next? How do we respond?
I believe this could be the church’s finest hour. We could RISE and be the agents of
or your small group can work on to bring change to your community? We have
week. They’ve painted the facility, brought backpacks, hygiene kits and started a
Crossover Church campus in the lunch room on Sundays. They are bringing change to a forgotten place and giving teens hope. What are some ways you can empower someone? We have several people going into the F graded elementary school to mentor students each week. Our church has a partnership that got us a grant to
work with over 30 families in poverty to mentor them to stability. There are several incredible stories of change that will impact generations to come.
change, justice, empowerment and reconciliation. But, those are big words and big
What about reconciliation? It seems there’s been a resurgence of racism... or may-
do we really bring change and what can justice look like? How do we practically
still been with us all along. When another shooting or verdict or protest happens
mountains to tackle. The problems seem so overwhelming and so complex. How empower people and really bring reconciliation? I can’t possibly give all the
answers in this short editorial and I’m not claiming to have all the answers, but I
know just talking about it on social media isn’t going to help. We’ve become good at identifying the problem and talking about it, but bringing awareness doesn’t always lead to real solutions.
be social media and our 24 hour news cycle is just putting a spotlight on what’s they rarely put the mic in front of a church leader. Why? We don’t have a lot of
credibility to speak into it as over 85% of churches are still segregated. We must RISE and change this. The New Testament church was multi-ethnic, multi-generational and multi-class. Jesus said one of the most important commandments
was to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. If you live in any metropolitan area many of your neighbors will look different than you. Can you love them, minister to them and invite them to your church? You should be able to! We should be
planting and transitioning churches that reflect the diversity of our cities in color, age and economics.
As the world continues to get louder and lower we can RISE above the noise and
LEAD HIGHER! People want hope, realness and relationships. We can authentically offer them this with the love of Christ and his church!
Rising with you, Pastor Tommy
Tommy “Urban D.” Kyllonen - Leads Higher as he leads his wife and his two daughters, serves as Lead Pastor @ Crossover Church and serves in several leadership positions in the North Tampa Community. 5
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
06 FLAVOR FEST CONFERENCE PAGES 18 S.O.U.LNEWZ 19 DJ OFFICIAL TRIBUTE 20 INDIE SPOTLIGHT 22 BUTTA P 24 REBUILD 26 THE AMBASSADOR 27 HOT 97 FM 28 FLAVOR FEST URBAN CHURCH NETWORK 30 BREAKFREE 32 DEE - 1 36 PYREXX 38 CANTON JONES 40 S.O.U.L GRAFFITI 42 S.O.U.L FASHION 44 BOOKS BY MC’S 46 NO MALICE FILM 47 UNASHAMED MOVIE 48 MUSIC REVIEWS 55 S.O.U.L SIGNIFICANCE 60 CHOSEN 61 FIGHT CLUB 62 DA CREW 67 SIDEWALK SUNDAY SCHOOL 69 STEPS FOR SUCCESS & THRIVE 73 THE NEW INNOVATION DISTRICT 75 REMIX 76 CROSSOVER URBAN LEADERSHIP COLLEGE 78 THE MOVEMENT TEENS 83 STRATEGY 85 RE-UP & CLASSES 87 CROSSOVER KIDZ SPEAKING ON URBAN LIFE 89 SUNDAY WORSHIP EXPERIENCES ISSUE #27 91 BELIEFS AND DNA 93 CROSSOVER HISTORY 96 EDITORIAL
THE S.O.U.L. TEAM:
Publisher / Editor In Chief - Tommy “Urban D.” Kyllonen Creative Director – Josue Marrero – gimistudios.com Assistant Director – Edward “Spec” Bayonet Contributing Writers - Lucy Kyllonen, James Cole, Loriana De Paz, Jennifer Chandra, Derek Hoiem, Spivey Giggles, Joe Waters, Angel Olivio, Nikita Carter, Sketch The Journalist, Brother E, Fred Lynch, Michelle Morton, Marty White, Samantha Rosario, Mikaela McIntosh, Christopher J. Harris, Music Video Reviews / Graffiti Art / Fashion / Music Reviews - Matt “Mistery” Peet, Brovah Greg, DJ VJ, DJ Rhino, Mike Augusta, Kerleen Joseph Contributing Designer – John “JL” Lima Contributing Photographers - Carlos Espinel *Printed by Connectmedia.com (800) 521-5730 For information on advertising: www.soulmag.tv Download the current press kit for detailed demographics, ad rates, and specs. S.O.U.LMAG is published by Crossover Church www.crossoverchurch.org Crossover Church is a non-profit 501 ( c ) 3. Crossover’s mission is “To empower people to Discover, Develop and Display Christ in every area of their lives.” S.O.U.LMAG exists to build on this mission as we take it to a global platform through print and digital media. S.O.U.LMAG Magazine/Crossover Church 1235 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, Fl 33612 * Select physical copies of S.O.U.LMAG are available for purchase in bulk and all issues are available digitally for FREE at our website: www.soulmag.tv
S.O.U.L. | PG 8 The once “run down” facility on N. Orleans Avenue
produced by Pastor Tommy aka Urban D. and other
outreach and community development programs.
church. The church grew from 40 to over 500 that
Crossover’s website and thousands have attended the
growth and community impact as it is truly a move of
was completely transformed into a unique thriving attended 3 Sunday Services. In addition, the Thursday night Youth services reached hundreds each week.
innovators at the church. Millions have visited
church services, looking to Crossover as a model.
In January of 2010 the campus was sold to a Haitian
In November of 2010 Crossover took a huge leap of
in the ballrooms at a hotel on the corner of Busch
square foot facility on Fowler Ave (The former Toys R
Church and Crossover began temporarily meeting
and Nebraska. The church actually grew and reached many new people during their time at the hotel.
God has called Crossover to be a pioneer church to
faith and moved into their newly remodeled 43,000 Us). With the new location and the huge amount of
economically diverse like the New Testament Church.
have seen thousands start a relationship with Christ
through all of the favorable media articles, as well as
the numerous CD’s, books, magazines and resources
people DISCOVER, DEVELOP and DISPLAY their life in
Christ! The future is bright as Crossover plans to open other campuses in the Tampa Bay Area and plant churches in several other cities.
way they only dreamed about!
Since moving into the new facility Crossover Church
The church has become internationally known
God! They are rebuilding the city as they are seeing
space, Crossover is now making Christ famous in a
reach the Urban Community. Since it’s re-launch it
has always been multi-ethnic, multi-generational and
The church is experiencing an incredible time of
has served tens of thousands through outreaches, and over 1,000 people get baptized. They have
strengthened their discipleship process, started an
accredited Bible College and developed several new
CROSSOVER HISTORY
OUR JOURNEY Crossover Church started with a small community of people that wanted something different. They were burned out with “organized religion” – tired of the politics, the tradition, and the masks people hid behind at many churches. They saw the needs of people on the streets that weren’t being met, and they wanted to do something about it.
Pastor Joe McCutchen founded Crossover with a few
at Crossover maintained about 40 people on Sundays
old run down building on N. Orleans Avenue near
two years), each of which were bi-vocational.
other people in the early 1990’s. They moved into a
Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa. Al Palmquist was a member
of the church who met Tommy Kyllonen on some bas-
In January of 2002, Tommy Kyllonen became the
urban basketball league while completing his college
was birthed for the church. Crossover Church was
ketball courts in Clearwater. Tommy was running an
internship. Joe and Al challenged Tommy to start an urban youth ministry from scratch at Crossover.
In December 1995, Tommy graduated from college
with a B.A. in Pastoral Theology, with a concentration in Youth Ministry. He married Lucy in February of
1996 and together they founded Crossover’s Youth Ministry with only 4 teens. Over the next six years, they developed a first of its kind Hip-Hop Styled
Youth Ministry, which grew to hundreds of youth
attending weekly. During this time, the Adult Ministry
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as there were three different pastors (changing every
lead pastor of Crossover. A new vision and structure re-launched as the leadership team developed and
implemented a new mission to reach the urban community. Crossover carefully and prayerfully began
to make several changes to better reach the city. The church quickly grew as several new people visited
and built new relationships with Christ. Many soon embraced the vision and began getting discipled
and involved in serving others. Within a few years
the church had to add a second Sunday Service and then a third.
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Some people describe us as a “Hip-Hop Church”. We are not a Hip-Hop Church - We are a Church. We model ourselves after the New Testament Church. We have
DNA & CORE
VALUES 1
WE’RE A BUNCH OF CROSS-OVERS!
We practice whole hearted devotion to Jesus!
We’ve crossed over from death to life. We don’t
compromise. We go HARD! - Matthew 22:37-38
2
DOWNLOAD THE APPS!
We value biblical teaching and the application of
scripture. We believe when God’s word is applied
and downloaded it will radically transform lives. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
3
WE ARE MULTI-ETHNIC, MULTI-
is God’s and we just get to manage it temporarily. Proverbs 22:9
6
TO CHANGE THE GAME,
CHANGE THE FRAME.
We embrace Innovation and Creativity. We love
change. We are learners. We think big, take risks and hold a healthy disregard for the impossible. - Isaiah 43:19
7
GOOD IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH.
GENERATIONAL AND MULTI-CLASS.
We strive for excellence. We know there is no reward
age or financial status. Christ is our unity factor. This is
lukewarm faith. - Colossians 3:17
We value everyone! No matter what their skin-color,
what the New Testament Church looked like and this is what Heaven will look like. - Acts 13:1
4
HEALTHY THINGS GROW!
We value growth. Healthy Christians grow and healthy churches grow. Roots Groups, classes,
workshops, mentorship and serving help people
grow deeper. Our church continues to grow as our influence grows deeper in our city. - Ephesians 4:15-16
5
WE ARE GIVERS!
We value giving and generosity. God has been
generous to us and where much is given, much is
required. We give to our local church, we give back to our community, we give to other churches, ministries
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and missionaries. We realize everything we have
for the squandered potential, half-hearted effort or
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NOT EVERYONE RAPS!
We value everyone playing his or her part. It’s not
all about what happens on the stage or on the mic. We want every individual to use his or her unique
gifts, talents and abilities to connect others to God.
We create multiple platforms for different gifts to be used. - Romans 12:6-8
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REAL RECOGNIZES REAL.
We are culturally relevant. We are real. We don’t put on masks. We don’t use spiritual jargon or
Christianese. Our music is loud, we love God and we communicate like it’s 2017 (not 1917). 1 Corinthians 9:19-22
10 WE ARE A MOVEMENT.
We have become a model. There are dozens of other
church in today’s urban context, so we will communicate in today’s language. We use Hip-Hop, R&B, Reggae, Gospel, EDM, Art,
Film, Dance, Spoken Word and Drama to communi-
cate the gospel... but music and style does not define us, our passion and commitment to Christ does. We
serious. We ask hard questions and talk about things many
was real and raw... in a loving way.
If you are reading this magazine, many of you have probably attended a service at Crossover where
you saw that church could be relevant, engaging,
and real. At the same time, you may still have some
Fest), resources and coaching. We will unite, show
much at Crossover is typical or traditional. We’re
and the world. We’re here to provide training,(Flavor
questions about the details of what we believe. Not
love and help expand God’s kingdom. - John 13:35
intentionally out of the box. However, everything we
WE CELEBRATE!
believe and practice in our services is Biblical. There is a big difference. The “church” [as a whole] has gotten
We will not take this move of God for granted. We will
the two a little mixed up. Jesus was not a traditional
baptized, becoming members, serving and growing
with the religious leaders of His day because He kept
we will remain grateful for God’s hand of favor on our
the outside, but on the inside they were “rotten”(Mat-
regularly celebrate people coming to Christ, getting deeper in Christ. Ministry is the highest calling and church. - 1 Chronicles 16:8
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WE’RE HERE TO REBUILD THE CITY!
We engage in community transformation. We will
meet tangible needs and bring empowerment as we share and live out the gospel. We’re here to make a
lasting difference in our community. Where it is dark, we bring the light of Christ! - Isaiah 32:18
2. About Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
When we turn from our self-willed lives and turn to
He is co-equal with the father. Jesus lived a sinless
human life and offered himself as the perfect sacrifice for all people by dying on the cross. He arose from
the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to heaven’s glory and will return again someday to reign as King of
forgiveness can any one be saved from sin’s penalty. Christ in faith, we are saved. Eternal life begins the
moment one receives Jesus Christ into their life by faith. //
Romans 6:23 / Ephesians 3:8,9 / John 14:6, 1:12 / Titus 3:5 / Galatians 3:26 / Romans 5:1
Kings and Lord of Lords. // Matthew 1:22-23 / Isaiah
7. About Eternity: The soul of every human being
Corinthians 15:3-4 / Acts 1:9-11 /
eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally
9:6 / John 1:1-5, 14:10-30 / Hebrews 4:14-15 / 1 1 Timothy 6:14-15 / Titus 2:13
churches don’t usually address. We’ll go there. Jesus
churches like ours popping up around the country
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Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God’s offer for
was created to live forever. We will either exist
with God through salvation and forgiveness. Hell is
OUR BELIEFS
have created a relevant, comfortable atmosphere but we take our faith
/ Psalm 90:2 / Matthew 28:19 / Corinthians 13:14
guy! As a matter of fact, he was constantly in conflict challenging them. They tried to look “all good” on thew 23).
Jesus is not so concerned with how we look on
the outside, or how we dress when we come to His house, (they didn’t have suits and ties in His day),
as long as it’s modest. He’s not concerned about the style we choose to worship Him with, as long as the
lyrics glorify Him. Jesus wants our hearts to be pure! At Crossover, we use our freedom to be creative, so
we will consistently change our presentation as we engage our culture, but our message and what we believe will never change.
3. About the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and Son. He is present in the world
with God. Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal
existence. // John 3:16, 2:25, 5:11-13 / Romans 6:23 / Revelation 20:15 / Matthew 1:8, 2:44-46
salvation. He provides the Christian with power for
one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of us
living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spir-
“There is one body and one spirit... there is one Lord, all...” // Ephesians 4:4-6
itual gift when they are saved. As Christians, we seek
IN THE NON-ESSENTIAL BELIEFS, WE HAVE LIBERTY.
/ John 16:7-13, 14:16-17 / Acts 1:8 / 1 Corinthians
judgment on disputable matters. Who are you to
to live under his control daily. // 2 Corinthians 3:17 2:12,3:16 / Ephesians 1:13 / Acts 2:4
4. About the Bible: The Bible is God’s Word to us. It
was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme
source of all truth for all Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without
any mixture of error. // 2 Timothy 1:13, 3:16 / 2 Peter 1:20,21 / Psalm 119:105
5. About Human Beings: People are made in the
spiritual image of God, to be like Him in character. People are the supreme objects of God’s creation.
Although every person has a great potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience
toward God called “sin”. This sin nature (attitude) sep-
arates people from God and is the root cause of many
of the problems of life. // Genesis 1:27 / Psalm 8:3-6 /
verse. He has eternally existed in three persons: the
us, but we must accept it. We can never make up for
co-equal and are one God. // Genesis 1:1, 26-27, 3:22
is eternal union
IN THE ESSENTIAL BELIEFS, WE HAVE UNITY.
He also lives in every Christian from the moment of
THE ESSENTIALS WE BELIEVE Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are
from God. Heaven
to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 53:6 / Romans 3:23
1. About God: God is the creator and ruler of the uni-
eternal separation
6. About Salvation: “Salvation” is God’s free gift to
our sins through self - improvement or good works.
“Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing
judge someone else’s servant? To his own master
he stands or falls... so then each of us will give an
account of himself to God... so whatever you believe
about these things, keep them between yourself and God.” // Romans 14:1,4,12,22
OUR AFFILIATIONS
Crossover Church is a non-denominational church.
You can see from our statements of faith on this page that we are a Christian Church that fully believes
the Bible and teaches it in context. Our Pastors have
degrees from Universities and Seminaries where they spent many years carefully studying the Scriptures.
The Pastors are ordained Ministers under the laws of the State of Florida. There are several other pastors of larger churches that mentor, train, and support
our leadership team. Crossover also partners with The American Bible Society, Leadership Network,
Urban Youth Workers Institute, The Urban Coaching
Network and School of Urban Missions Bible College and Theological Seminary as they develop resources, provide training, and equip students and church planters.
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WORSHIP EXPERIENCES
SUNDAY
9:00AM, 10:30AM, 12:30PM
Our Sunday services are full of high energy as they reach a multi-ethnic, multi-generational urban crowd with people from many different backgrounds. Crossover has experienced incredible growth over the past several years. Although the church is much larger and has multiple services, it has even more of a family friendly atmosphere now more than ever before.
Although the church is much larger and has multiple services, it has even more of a family friendly
atmosphere now more than ever before. It has
God in a comfortable atmosphere.
become an exciting place where everyone is accepted
Our First Impressions Team welcomes you with
a homeless person sitting next to a professional
which contains all of our upcoming events, ministry
in love no matter how they look. It’s common to find athlete, next to a single mom, next to a business
owner, next to a multi-generational family, next to a
former drug dealer - it’s amazing what God is doing! Our church services are geared to be predictably
unpredictable as you definitely won’t fall asleep.
Although we attract people of all ages, the majority of our crowd is younger than your average
congregation, suits and ties are not required. Most
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people come dressed casually, and come to worship
smiling faces. Each person receives a program,
opportunities, and additional information. Our
worship is done with an R&B/Hip-Hop/Gospel style with a live DJ, worship team, and a mix of artists,
poets, rappers, dancers, and live musicians. God’s
presence is always evident as people genuinely seek Him.
The message is always brought in a creative and
practical way where everyone can learn something
from the scripture that is applicable to their everyday
to talk and pray with people. Our prayer room is
message series that include various visual elements:
is open before, during and after all services with a
lives. Pastor Tommy and the teaching team use
video clips, drama, testimonies, music, interviews
and impacting object lessons and to help illustrate the scripture and the topic. Printed handouts
located at the front right side of the auditorium and prayer team and free bibles and devotional books for those in need.
are sometimes distributed and the audience is
After the service the lobby turns into a big party full
teaching.
relationships, and eat together.
encouraged to follow along and take notes with the
of community where people laugh, hangout, build
Many services end with a great prayer time or
a strong challenge to make life changes, start a relationship with Christ, or to make a stronger
commitment to Him. Our staff and leaders make
themselves available in the lobby after each service
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CROSSOVER MORE THAN A LESSON PLAN BY JENNIFER CHANDRA - KIDZ DIRECTOR
It happens all the time. Someone signs up to serve in your ministry excited with unbelievable passion, you get them plugged into your team, they serve a few weeks faithfully and then, they disappear.
And with each person it happens with, you’re left
sitting there wondering what on earth happened?
Was it the lesson plan? Was the arts and craft activity too much? Maybe the kids were out of control?
Maybe I’m not leading well enough? Dozens of
questions, with dozens of possible answers. Either
way, you’re left with one less teacher and a bunch of kids looking for a leader.
If you’ve worked with children in any type of capacity I’m sure you are quite aware of the high turnover
ratio in this area. Children’s Ministry is often viewed as cute, adorable, fun, and easy. After all, you’re just babysitting, right? For those who have been in this
grind for a while, you know that this ministry may be all those words listed above, but I would guess that you also might add painful, demanding, stressful,
and heartbreaking. What is it that causes these two
extreme sets of words collide together to make one experience?
for our ministry area, the world is busy training our kids to follow it’s dark ways.
So here you are, training a new set of volunteers
PEOPLE. PEOPLE ARE HARD. KIDS ARE HARD. Generations have come and gone, but our kids are
to join your Children’s Area and you’re faced with the question: Do you tell them the truth? Do you tell them that joining this ministry is going to be
amazing not only because of the cute kids that come
plan - it’s an invitation to do life with a group of kids
Gangs are preying on kids younger and younger
hard, but so incredibly worth it?
who dress so nicely but also have to hold the ones
you tell them that they get to share the gospel with whose parents are so ashamed that they refuse
ministry is life changing because it is so incredibly
hood after the schools get out and watch where the
WE DO.
many girls raise their shirts a little bit to gain some
Crossover is located in the heart of “Suitcase City”
he is old he will not depart from it.” While we are
busy finding object lessons and cool stage settings
potential to change lives – not only the kids, but also
them who have risen to the calling and we’ve seen
to seek help for them? Do you tell them that this
“Train a child up in the way he should go, and when
we’re honest. Honest that this ministry has the
mess of their life and be willing to help them clean
matter of seconds.
books and raise up their fists. Proverbs 22:6 says
the hood. Our kids are stuck in a cycle.
So when a new volunteer signs up for our team,
the opportunity to rise higher. Amongst the 70+
this generation is able to haunt, intimidate, and
attention, and how many boys throw down their
salaries low keeping the crème of the crop away from
lives of our kids. They need leaders – not fans. They
well-behaved kids as well as children with disabilities
kids go. Watch how many gang signs you see, how
school, leaving gaps in resources and leaving teacher
leaders that have stepped up to the plate.
See, when you’re honest with your leaders about
gone away; they’ve just manifested themselves in a
everywhere. Don’t believe it? Hang out in your local
this God-cycle that is reaching them because of the
high enough, funding doesn’t find its way to that
in and disrupt everything you’re trying to say? Do
who are malnourished and reek of marijuana? Do
ostracize anyone they see fit, and they can do it in a
into our local schools in 33612. If the grades aren’t
the calling God has placed on their life, there is also
BUT THERE IS HOPE.
because of the gangbangers-in-training who come
still encountering the same situations that they
new way. With the Internet and Social Media alone
negative cycle pulling on them to distract them from
is out of reach because property taxes don’t funnel
in and answer every question correctly but also
you tell them that you get to hold beautiful babies
always have. Bullying, racism, and poverty haven’t
stability in anything is a luxury, and great education
meaning poverty runs rampant in our hood. Sure,
we have children from homes from all over the city
and the suburbs with both parents who have stable incomes, stable housing, and great education. But
the volunteers. The reality is, sometimes it’s our life that has to change first before we can change the
what they are going to walk into, it gives them
need people who are going to stand by them in the
volunteers we have on our team, there are several of
it up. See, children’s ministry is more than a lesson
the fruit from it. Modesto joined our team when he
until they move onto the next phase.
of the drug game, and knowing the streets himself,
So the next time you have someone excited to join
reach these kids. And as the years have gone by and
about the amazing journey they are about to walk
resilience, perseverance, and faith to our young boys
them to rise and lead higher.
was only 15. Having faced homelessness, being part he knew God could somehow use him in a way to
your area, be honest with him or her. Let them know
his faith walk has developed, he’s been able to model
into, but also let them know it’s going to require
who are facing the same things he once encountered. And in turn, those boys are going into their schools
and reaching out to their friends to show them that same hope they’ve seen modeled. While there is a
we also serve many children who come from our neighborhood where two parent homes are rare,
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ROOTS GROUPS
Crossover’s small group Bible Studies (Roots Groups)
departments also have Roots Groups for the people
These are groups of 10-15 people that meet in
church goes through the same book in our groups
meet a few times a year in semesters of 6-8 weeks. homes, businesses and at the church campus. There are groups for men, women, married
couples, co-eds as well as interest based groups like basketball, business and entrepreneurship, fitness bootcamp, running, etc. Several of our ministry
serving on their team. One semester a year the entire
deeper roots in their journey with Christ and the Crossover family.
as the Sunday messages track along with it as well.
At the end of the semester each Roots Group picks
books that people can choose from.
out some of the things they just studied about. Each
The other two semesters offer a variety of topics and
Amazing things happen at Roots Groups as people study God’s word, build relationships and grow
N O I T A D N S E S FOU S A L C
a community service project here in the city to live semester has a sign up period of 4 weeks, so stay
tuned for the next Roots Group semester - coming soon!
Building your foundation is so important in today’s culture. Our world is in crisis and those storms of life regularly hit us from the left and the right. If our
faith foundation is not strong we can watch things quickly
The new Re-Up service launched in the fall of 2015 with lots of energy and excitement. People brought their Bibles, Notebooks and Tablets. The service is different than Sundays as worship is more stripped down and intimate and then we get right into the Bible Study. This is for people who want to go deeper as we take our time and really get into the word, the historical context and give multiple applications to our lives today.
crumble in our lives. At Crossover Church we have a series of 3D
Many
times we go through a book
Foundation Classes that help build your faith stronger.
of the Bible chapter by chapter and verse by verse
Working
book. In the past year we’ve went through Colossians,
Sharing Your Faith, Bondage Breaker, Biblical
Book and ReBuild. At the end of many of the services
and Honoring God in your singleness.
been some very transparent amazing moments that
The hunger for God’s word has grown at Crossover
and others times we go in depth through a Christian
in a Hostile Environment,
Proverbs, Titus and did series on The People Factor
Manhood, Biblical Womanhood, Blended Families
there is a time for Q and A with the crowd. There has God orchestrated during the Q and A time.
Church through the Re-Up. We’re watching so many
We’ve also broken into 4 classes during 2 different six
relationship with Christ! Our Kidz wing is open
experience. People were able to choose what class
and our teenagers from 6th - 12th grade are in the
a book that people could purchase in our Hip-Hop
can come out and get a Re-Up on Wednesday nights!
people mature and go to the next level in their
week periods to break it up and change the learning
during the Re-Up service for infants up to 5th grade
they wanted to take. Every class was also based on
gym for their service “The Movement”. The whole fam
shop. Our class sessions included classes on Finances,
EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT @ 7PM 16
MEMBERSHIP
Come Discover what Crossover Church is about; our beliefs, our exciting
vision and how you can plug into grow and serve.
SPIRITUAL MATURITY
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YOUR MISSION
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gets you plugged in to Activate here
Learn more about how to share the
Come Develop and learn how to grow
Learn how you were wired so you can
gospel locally and globally. This class
relationships and generosity.
with Christ in every area of your life.
at Crossover and begin changing the
deeper in your prayer life, bible study,
world!
Each of our foundation classes are generally offered during our Sunday morning services in our classroom wing in the back of the building. Check out the weekly bulletin and website to see our class schedule for next month.
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Parenthetically, it would be important to note that it is
If Jethro was a Christian Hip-Hop artist, he would say
demands of ministry and the “next thing” often push
you. Put down your majesty, you need a strategy.”
always in order to pause and celebrate victories. The
LIFE & MINISTRY DEMAND A STRATEGY B Y PA S T O R C H R I S T O P H E R J . H A R R I S
us to simply move on, but sometimes you have to
pause and throw a party. After their time of rejoicing and testimonials, the next day Moses re-engages
something like, “Slow your roll. Before your role rolls
(That was lame, I know! I’m a strategist, not a lyricist! But you get the point!)
his daily routines and go about his daily work. As
Jethro, in his wisdom, wanted to expand Moses’ (and
utilizing, he swiftly steps in and engages in a healthy
establish his credibility by sharing “advice” that is
his father-in-law sees the PROCESS that Moses is dialogue with Moses.
“13 The next day Moses sat to judge the people, and the people stood around Moses from morning till evening. 14 When Moses’ father-in-law saw all that he was doing for the people, he said, “What is this that
the people’s) capacity, improve his cadence, and literally a STRATEGY for leadership.
Pastor, Ministry Leader, I don’t doubt that you have
vision. I don’t doubt that you have heard from God. I don’t doubt that you have researched scriptures that confirm what’s in your heart.
you are doing for the people? Why do you sit alone, and all the people stand around you from morning till evening?” 15 And Moses said to his father-inlaw, “Because the people come to me to inquire of God; 16 when they have a dispute, they come to
You would be hard pressed to find anyone serving in ministry who wouldn’t say that they aren’t busy. Ministry places a demand on you that few might understand. It’s not just the physical demand on your schedule. It is the combination of the spiritual, mental, emotional, psychological, and social demand that’s creates the pressure and produces the weight of ministry.
Researcher George Barna and his team revealed a few
started. Calling allows you to at least enroll in school
that reveals the demand and pressure that’s placed
drive to the gym, and walk through the front door.
sobering statistics in April 2008 (Willow Magazine) on Pastors (and many ministry leaders).
When dissecting the data, Barna discovered:
• 90% of pastors work more than 46 hours per week
Calling doesn’t help you win the game or succeed in classes or have a thriving relationship or meet your fitness goals. Strategy does!
Across denominational, race, culture, and
• 80% of pastors believe their ministry affected their
drive, excitement, and eagerness to get people
leave ministry within the first 5 years families negatively
• 50% of pastors would leave if they believed they could make a living doing something else
If you put 50 Pastors and Ministry leaders in the
room, you could get 500 answers. But there is one
answer that would probably consistently ring true:
Calling. The calling (purpose) on the life of a Pastor and Ministry Leader is what would drive them to “risk” some of these “work hazards”.
But today, we have to understand that “calling” is no longer enough to stay IN it! Calling gets the game
and I make them know the statutes of God and his laws.” 17 Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good.18 You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone. 19 Now obey my voice; I will give you advice, and God be with
• 80% of seminary and Bible college graduates will
SO, THE QUESTION BECOMES, WHY DO THE JOB?
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or go on the first date. Calling allows you to get up,
me and I decide between one person and another,
geographical lines, we see individuals with passion,
you!” (ESV)
Your catchy title and cool graphics will be a grand
slam, but I’m really curious – what’s your strategy?
HOW will you move this bus? When will you crunch the numbers and count the cost? WHO do you
need to assist you? What are the short term and long term steps and process to accomplish the
vision? Who’s asking the hard questions? Are your
processes written down and outlined clearly? Beyond a packed room, what is your “win”? What kind of
culture do you want your organization to have? How will you (intentionally and unintentionally) create
that culture? Have you actually scheduled strategy
missions (different from vision sessions)? What’s your formal evaluation process?
All of these questions and more are the beginning
process of developing, executing, and maintaining strategy. Early in my ministry career, I would get
excited when I would listen to Pastors and Ministry Leaders who were starting churches or revitalizing ministries or launching new programs or creating
clever ideas. That excitement remained until I saw the long-term effect of chasing ideas. Ideas get
you going, but strategy keeps you going. Many of
those Pastors who I celebrated their start with aren’t in the game anymore. Some of them had to close
their doors or even worse, keep the doors open with unfulfilled vision and reduced expectations. One of the common variables of these realities is a lack of strategy.
EVERY MINISTRY AND ORGANIZATION NEEDS STRATEGY. BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, EVERY MINISTRY AND ORGANIZATION DESERVES IT.
motivated about the vision. Once the vision is
launched, what’s the strategy? One of the most
powerful VISION (and calling) narratives in scripture
is Exodus 18. In common terms, Moses is celebrating a victory. In this case, it was getting freedom from Pharaoh. In your case, it could have been getting the building finished, successfully launching the program or initiative, finishing the rebranding,
releasing new leaders into ministry, launching the
campus, meeting the budget or accomplishing the campaign goal. Take your pick!
It was a time of rejoicing. Exodus 18:9 says, “And Jethro rejoiced for all the good that the Lord had
done to Israel, in that he had delivered them out of the hand of the Egyptians.”
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REMIX WORSHIP
What makes you, you? What makes you unique? What have you gone thorough in your life that has shaped you into what people see today? The answers to these questions are the things that separate us from one another. However, those differences are often the very thing that allows us to connect to one another, in ways that we normally would not be able to connect.
The different trials we face and circumstances we
Our stories sometimes happen to us at the most
will, in most teams or groups. Let’s be honest it’s not
So as you come to know Remix you will see that we
we have to cry sometimes; the joy, the sorrow, the
it all figured out and everything is working how it
Nevertheless the things that kept Remix going
church is, was and how it should look and sound like
go through; the pain that we experience and tears hurt, the disappointment, the adaptation, the roller
coaster ride of emotions, the resiliency and passion
that we share; are the things and differences that we have in common with one another. These drastic, yet
intertwining circumstances are what make up who we are, as individuals who are part of something bigger
called REMIX. For apart from one another we may not have much impact but as a unit we come together
to worship, pray, love, share, and express our stories through music and art.
We all have a story and although some stories
may be similar, they all affect us in different ways.
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unexpected times. Just when you think you have
should, the floor falls out from underneath you and you find yourself back to square one. These types
of situations happen in life and often throw us for a loop and leave us wondering what happened. The situation for mentioned is one that Remix found
itself in just a short while ago. We were thrust into the circumstances of having a worship director to
not having a worship director to having a worship
director again to not having a worship director again to having a worship director again during the course of less than two years. The roller coaster ride of this
process would cause a fraction, a tear, a break if you
an easy thing to go through so much transition.
strong, that kept the team together, that allowed
the group the persevere, is the love of people, the
heart to worship, the family like culture and the will
to serve. Remix expresses and shares music from all genres, because our stories come from all genres of different backgrounds. You’ll hear R&B, Soul,
Hip-Hop, Reggae, Gospel, EDM, Spanish and more!
like to reflect the past , present and future of what the as we worship. We are Remix because our stories are
different yet connected through one who connects us all, Jesus Christ. We are Remix because the music we share resembles our stories and the people’s stories
and no matter what the Genre of music, it is all about giving praise to he who is worthy of praise - GOD.
CHECK OUT REMIX’S BRAND NEW SINGLE “RISE” ON ALL DIGITAL OUTLETS BE ON THE LOOK OUT FOR THE REMIX EP COMING SOON!
Remix’s goal is to reflect the diversity of people
through worship and the arts. It is the diversity that allows and opens the door to something being
remixed. So it is only just, that our expression of worship reflects that.
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THE LAND THAT CROSSOVER CHURCH SITS ON WAS ONCE A GOAT FARM. As Pastor Tommy met with one of the land owners who is in his late seventies, he shared stories of riding down Fowler Ave. as a child when it was just a dirt road weaving through some farm land and citrus groves. A whole lot has changed in the past 70 years. The University of South Florida (USF) started developing their land in the late 1950’s. The USF property formerly was Henderson Air Field that was used during World War II. Around the same time Busch Gardens was developing and had a grand opening in 1959. Classes at USF officially kicked off in September of 1960 and the area around the University and the theme park quickly started to develop. Neighborhoods were built and businesses popped up all along Fowler Avenue. The University Mall opened in 1974. Research hospitals were eventually built. The area was booming. The area became a well-established working class neighborhood with many residents being students or employees at the college, hospital or theme park. Tampa continued to grow and the suburbs started to sprawl out farther and farther with new construction over the next several decades. The USF area eventually became older and many residents moved out to newer apartments and larger homes. The area became more transient as many older
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duplexes and apartments that once housed students became housing for lower income families. Over the past 15 years the city of Tampa closed many of it’s housing projects and many of those families received section 8 vouchers and moved out to the University area. Crime, drugs, prostitution and homelessness continued to increase and the area developed a bad reputation as it was living up to it’s nickname of Suitcase City. The neighborhood was in desperate need of rebuilding.
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WHEN THE RECESSION HIT
there were several more businesses and chains that left Fowler Ave. and the University Mall and headed to the new retail developing in the more affluent areas of New Tampa and Wesley Chapel. In 2010 Crossover Church took over the former Toys R’ Us store that had been empty since the fall of 2007. Fowler Ave. was lined with empty retail and restaurants. Although everyone else was leaving, Crossover knew this was exactly where they were supposed to be. They were there to help rebuild this community. In 2011, the Tampa Innovation Alliance was created as a non-profit corporation dedicated to the revitalization and elevation of the commercial areas in North Tampa. The Tampa Innovation Alliance geographical boundaries are Busch Boulevard to the south, Bearss Avenue to the north, and interstates 75 and 275 to the east and west, including parts
of the City of Tampa, City of Temple Terrace and unincorporated Hillsborough County. The Innovation Alliance incorporates and supports the community surrounding five anchor institutions including; The University of South Florida, Busch Gardens, Moffitt Cancer Center, Florida Hospital and RD Management LLC (University Mall). Other members also joined from a wide variety of business sectors at varying engagement levels. The vision of the Innovation Alliance is to transform this transient area into a destination, rather than just a thoroughfare to the university, entertainment venues or hospitals. The Tampa Innovation Alliance aims to leverage the impact of leading institutions in this key area of north Tampa to create wider economic benefits and attract investment that will elevate the local economy. Despite its many advantages – a Top 50 American research university, the nation’s busiest veterans hospital, a National Cancer Institutedesignated hospital, and one of the world’s great theme parks – the area has struggled in recent years. In November of 2014 former Hillsborough County Commissioner Mark Sharpe became the executive director of the Tampa Innovation Alliance. They began actively recruiting members and today there are close to 200 businesses or organizations that are part of it. In the spring of 2016 Crossover Church was recognized as a key anchor tenant of the district and they were invited to a research meeting at
Florida Hospital. About twenty organizations were represented and Crossover was honored to be at the table. Pastor Tommy met the Tampa Innovation Alliance executive director Mark Sharpe and set up a meeting. A few weeks later Mark came to Crossover and got a tour of the facility and heard about the miracle rebuilding story. He loved the entrepreneurial spirit of Crossover as they started a pre-school (Little Steps) that now has 16 employees, a store in the lobby (the Hip-Hop shop) and an accredited college cohort (Crossover Urban Leadership College) on their campus. Crossover became an alliance member and Pastor Tommy was invited to be on the board to help make decisions on how to rebuild the district. Pastor Tommy shared, “We are super excited to partner with the Tampa Innovation Alliance and rebuild our community. When many neighborhoods redevelop the people that live there get pushed out, but the Innovation Alliance wants to include those people and empower them with job certifications and opportunities to be part of the rebirth of north Tampa.”
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IN JUNE OF 2016
Crossover partnered with the Innovation Alliance and hosted the “Gimme Shelter - CodaPalooza Hackathon”. Six teams and over 40 coders spent over 18 hours locked in the church over the weekend and worked on creating digital solutions for homeless people. The Blooming Brands team won the grand
prize for developing a mobile app that connects all the resources for homeless people to have access to as 85% of people in Hillsborough county without permanent residency have a smart phone. Mark Sharpe shared, “We have made magnificent progress with the work that the volunteer coders did at this year’s hackathon. This new tech is going to make it easier for Tampa’s homeless to access resources and streamline the work done by agencies trying to help.” In the summer of 2016 the innovation district won a $3.8 million dollar Tech-hire grant from the Federal Government. More than 1,000 young adults and low income workers in the area will be trained for wellpaying jobs in information technology and health care. “This grant is a huge win for the residents of the University area community and will be the answer to many families struggling with unemployment and underemployment,” said Sarah Combs, Executive Director & CEO of University Area Community Development Corporation. The Innovation Alliance also has received county funding to fix Fowler Ave. and make it a safer place for cars, bikes and pedestrians. There are already signs of rebuilding as Fowler Ave. recently got a brand new Starbucks along with two new restaurants in front of University Mall (Portillos and Miller’s). The mall has plans to have a multi-million dollar remodel and become a mixed use destination. Several new modern apartment
complexes are being built in the district. USF continues to grow along with the hospitals and Busch Gardens. There is great energy among the Alliance partners that want to rebuild north Tampa. The potential is amazing.
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REBUILDING A COMMUNITY
goes far beyond physical buildings and better jobs. There is a spiritual brokenness that must be rebuilt. Crossover Church has touched the lives of countless families through outreaches, events, sidewalk Sunday School and their weekly church services. Benny Fernandez III is a life that has been rebuilt. He is a business owner from the neighborhood that was a former drug dealer and addict. He started attending Crossover and eventually recommitted his life to Christ and received a calling into ministry. He now attends Crossover’s leadership college and is also working on counseling certifications to work with people that struggle with addictions. Crossover Church and the University Area Community Development Corporation mentor and empower dozens and dozens of families through the steps program to help them out of poverty and crisis. Rebuilding starts with one family at a time. Crossover Church is committed to this community and they are excited to partner with other organizations to see lives changed for eternity.
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DISCOVERING HOPE THE HEARTBEAT IS TO
Crossover’s THRIVE Tampa Ministry serves to help the under-resourced to discover the potential within them to reach Hope by using what God has already given them. Our goal is not to remind them of their brokenness but to remind them of the opportunity for restoration through God’s love and grace.
The heartbeat of THRIVE tells us to stop thinking
THRIVE Tampa exists to empower individuals by
Sympathy relates to pity, empathy means I can relate
needed for them to develop and reach their goals.
sympathetically and start moving empathetically.
because we are both in need of something. We’ve all been broken. We are all in need of Christ!
A major part of what we do involves meeting immediate needs. For instance, our food pantry provides
multiple food bags to families every week. While this
is only a short-term solution, it comes with a personal prayer and genuine love. We believe that sometimes the shortest amount of time spent can also be the
most impactful. That bag of food is our opportunity to share a glimpse of hope.
placing the tools and resources in their hands
STEPS FOR
SUCCESS DEVELOPING ENDURANCE
the same so the plan never looks the same. We meet
We have become a Resource Hub for many as we
them where they are. From losing their job, to not
share up-to-date information about other resources in our community. This includes events from where the
STEPS for Success is a program co-developed with
latest job fairs are happening and upcoming health
our local University Area Community Development
fairs giving free medical or dental exams, to local
agencies offering free certifications and job trainings. As people start experiencing the benefits of community resources they are encouraged in the hope that
life can improve and are inspired as they move from “surviving” to “thriving”!
“This is going to take work… but we are going to be with you the entire way”. It all starts with a crisis, and this program’s goal is to teach families how to alleviate and avoid another crisis. Breaking the cycle of poverty is no easy feat. It takes support, vision and planning - something many who are stuck in this cycle have never had the opportunity to have.
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Center. Now celebrating its third year, the program
boasts over 100 families moving toward their lifelong dreams and goals among 4 different sites. Crossover Church has had the privilege of being one of these
sites. Families are referred into the program by part-
nering agencies under one condition - they must be
motivated. So many times the obstacles of life hinder us from seeing beyond. Through STEPS a “plan” for
those obstacles is created along with a plan to adjust should another obstacle arise.
being able to afford childcare, or trouble paying their rent, our goal is to stop the crisis before it occurs so
that families can reach their self-sustaining goals. Escaping poverty doesn’t happen overnight, which can
be draining to someone who is traveling this journey alone. In the STEPS program, a core piece is a circle
of support through trusted friends, family and their STEPS Navigator. We have multiple success stories
of people being the first one in their family to attend college, to others getting job certifications, to others
getting a GED to families getting into safer housing.
As they take steps toward success, they not only have a group of support, but a cheering fan club too!
STEPS for Success was created to be that “hand up” for families who are in need. The crisis never looks
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COPELAND PARK – TAMPA, FLORIDA
“GO INTO THE HIGHWAYS AND THE HEDGES AND COMPEL THEM TO COME”
MINISTRY REPORT
BY MARTY WHITE
The sun beams through the trees, illuminating the smiling faces of the children. Their energy is infectious as several dozen small pairs of hands are raised in unison. “Turn it over to Jesus and you’ll Smile!” they sing, their wide grins revealing, not only the occasional missing tooth, but the pure joy of simply being a child and praising God on their own terms. The man on the stage asks them if they are ready to have some fun. The children cheer loudly in response as fast paced
music fills the air. Excitement ripples like an electric current through the crowd. It’s what the kids have
been waiting for... it’s game time! Several minutes
later, when the games are over, the children are ready to take their seats. They sit on the clean blue tarps
that have been laid out on the grass for them, and wait attentively for the Bible lesson to begin.
THIS IS SIDEWALK SUNDAY SCHOOL.
The idea is simple. If the children aren’t coming to
the church, then the church must go to them. Side-
walk Sunday school uses mobile stages, made to be set-up quickly in parks and playgrounds, anywhere kids would be. It is designed on purpose to be fun
and fast paced, geared specifically towards children.
The lesson time is the same way. Every week there is
a clear, simple message from the Bible. It is taught in a way that is made to appeal to kids. However, It isn’t only what happens on stage that matters. When the children come, the point is made to also meet their
parents and families. Then each week, the families of
the children are paid a visit. The goal is not just to put on a good program for the kids, but it’s also to build relationships with families.
Sidewalk Sunday School has its roots in New York City, where it was first used successfully at Metro
World Child in Brooklyn. Currently, more than 20,000 children every week attend Sidewalk Sunday School in New York. From there, it has spread all over the
SIDEWALK SUNDAY SCHOOL HAS COME TO CROSSOVER CHURCH IN TAMPA! The need has never been greater. Crossover sits in the heart of Suitcase city, a neighborhood known
for its crime, drugs and homelessness. It earned its
nickname because it was said that nobody really stays here, they just live out of their suitcase. But it doesn’t really matter what everyone else calls this neigh-
borhood. The Children that live here call it home.
Sidewalk Sunday School goes down every Friday at 3pm at Copeland Park on 15th street, right around
the corner from Crossover. The park is located right
next to Shaw Elementary school. When the students get out they run right over to the tarps every Friday.
Crossover now has a weekly touch with hundreds of children and families right in our neighborhood as
we share the love of Christ with them. You don’t have to go overseas to do missions work – it’s right here
in our hood! If you would like to help us, or provide support in any way, please contact us Sidewalkforkids@crossoverchurch.org
globe, from Romania to the Philippines, reaching
hundreds of thousands of children and their families every week with the message of hope that is only found in Jesus. 34
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MINISTRY REPORT
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CROSSOVER’S NEW CAMPUS LAUNCHES @ THE HILLSBOROUGH JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER WITH
DA CREW “DA” CREW which stands for Directing Adolescents makes weekly visits to the youth detained in the detention center in Tampa. They go in on Friday evenings to have discussion groups about life issues the kids were dealing with on a daily basis; issues such as respect, trust, conflict and anger. They center the discussion around a scripture and the love of Christ. The team lets the youth know there is a purpose for their lives. As time moved on, the vision grew and
Da Crew started going into detention one Saturday
a month, taking a full service including testimonies as well as hip-hop artists, singers and dancers.
Hundreds of teens have responded to the gospel in
the past year. “DA” Crew has become a big highlight for the teens and workers at the detention center.
As the relationship continued to develop with the
detention center we blessed them with hygiene kits
for the teens as well as backpacks for when the teens
got out and were going back to school. A bond of
are making a huge connection and now are familiar
back so much.
they get out.
trust was growing as they were excited that we gave
with the church and connecting much easier when
Dianne Marchman then asked the director if they
Da Crew also recently launched a support group
weren’t sure and at that very moment they got a
parents don’t know what to do with their troubled
had wifi at the detention center. They told her they phone call about someone coming to fix the wifi.
They told Dianne, “Wow, I guess we do have wifi, why did you ask?” Dianne went on to ask, “What if we
bought you guys a big flat screen, could we bring our church service here streamed in live every Sunday
for parents that have teens in the JDC. Many times teen and don’t know where to turn for help,
resources, advice and prayer. We’re excited to see
several of these families connecting with our church family and getting healthier step by step.
morning for students that wanted to come into the
Our church building that Crossover is now in was
“Wow, you would buy us a flat screen and do that?
ministered in the detention center just 6 years
main area and watch it?” The director instantly said, Yes! We could definitely do that!” In September
of 2016 we purchased a 55 inch flat screen with a
mount and some other equipment to help launch our first off site campus. During our 9am service students are watching live with a couple of Crossover Da Crew volunteers at the JDC.
We intentionally greet the students a few times
during that service and engage them directly. They
built by a young man (Francisco Diaz) that we
before him and his construction company took on
the 43,000 square foot building process. We had no idea what God was up to! It goes to show that you
never know who you are ministering to - God is going to use some of these young people to help change the world! We are always in need of like-minded individuals that have a heart to reach out to our
hurting youth and give them hope for a better future through the love of Christ!
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CHOOSING TO HOPE OBEY SERVE AND ENCOURAGE NOW …FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS. - ESTHER 4:14 | BY LUCY KYLLONEN
WHO WE ARE
C.H.O.S.E.N. Women’s Ministry is available to any
and all Crossover ladies who are college age and up, regardless of background, ethnicity, and economic status.
tables are a part of Fight Club. As the title would
PHILOSOPHY & MISSION
older and they all meet at the table. Some are emotionally slumped over, carrying the frustrations of the week, while others pull up to the table with a smile and confidence, as if they have it all figured out. For others, a 12 hour fast has come to an end and thoughts of their next meal is consuming.
man returns to Crossover Church to continue their
fight training. Unlike the world of MMA or traditional boxing, these men aren’t sizing up another man as their opponent.
The conditioning and the training for members of
Fight Club requires each man to spar against the very person he will one day have to defeat; Himself!
As a men’s ministry, Fight Club has elected to move
beyond the typical overstated masculine cheers and
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boxing, these men aren’t sizing up another man as
person he will one day have to defeat; Himself!
man. In fact, while acknowledging the false manhood
needed.” —Welfare Ministry, Ellen G. White
As a men’s ministry, Fight Club has elected to move
returning to the ultimate intentions of God when He
CHOSEN is committed to encouraging,
characteristics promoted by the world, Fight Club is
suggest, every month, on the last Thursday, each
fight training. Unlike the world of MMA or traditional
reaches the inner life.They can come close to the
challenge everything they have ever learned about
tables are a part of Fight Club. As the title would
man returns to Crossover Church to continue their
The conditioning and the training for members of
chest bumping that is often confused with being a
The determined and diverse men sitting at these
suggest, every month, on the last Thursday, each
and He will work through them. . . They can do in
Hunger, excitement, and worries are all brought to
being a man.
The determined and diverse men sitting at these
their opponent.
They may take their places in His work at this crisis, families a work that men cannot do, a work that
Caucasian, African-American, younger,
challenge everything they have ever learned about
“The Lord has a work for women as well as for men.
BY JAMES E. COLE - MEN’S MINISTRY LEADER
the table, and for approximately 90 minutes, men
CHOSEN PROVIDES
the table, and for approximately 90 minutes, men
Creator (Discover), and to serve one another in comGod in every area of their lives.
short, athletic, husky, Asian, Hispanic,
Hunger, excitement, and worries are all brought to
OUR VISION
munity (Display) as they Develop as true women of
Every month they meet at the table. Tall,
gym to fight and win. All men are welcome to come.
emotional instability.
being a man.
To see women be loved and to be known by their
FIGHTERS AT THE TABLE
abuse, social skills, unhealthy relationships and
created man.
In order to fight for the kingdom of God, and fight for our families and communities, God is first requiring that Men fight for their minds. It is at the table that
men challenge what the streets taught them about manhood when an absent father was not present.
It’s at the table that men learn to take a second look at what their father or grandfather taught or did not
teach them about race, sex, money and responsibility. 7PM, the last Thursday of every month, men of
Crossover Church in Tampa, Florida are training in our gym to fight and win. All men are welcome to come. But none are encouraged to leave the same.
hearts of those whom men cannot reach.Their labor is
challenging, equipping, and nurturing Crossover’s women to grow in their walk with God as they commit to serve each other in the local body. It exists to affirm women and their true value in God, and to minister to the broad spectrum of women’s needs. The mission is to disciple women and to develop
leaders by breaking down the barriers that prevent women from reaching their full potential. These
barriers include but are not limited to; poor living conditions/homelessness, illiteracy, health issues,
Fight Club requires each man to spar against the very
But none are encouraged to leave the same.
Women’s “Redefined” Service — (2nd Monday of the Month)
Small Groups that areExclusive for Women
Crossover Discipleship & Leadership Classes Retreats & Conferences
Special Events & Activities
GETTING INVOLVED
If you would like information on ways that you can
serve or sponsor any of our events or activities, please contact us at: chosen@crossoverchurch.org.
For updates and special events follow us on Facebook and Instagram: chosen813
beyond the typical overstated masculine cheers and chest bumping that is often confused with being a
man. In fact, while acknowledging the false manhood characteristics promoted by the world, Fight Club is
returning to the ultimate intentions of God when He created man.
In order to fight for the kingdom of God, and fight for our families and communities, God is first requiring that Men fight for their minds. It is at the table that
men challenge what the streets taught them about manhood when an absent father was not present.
It’s at the table that men learn to take a second look at what their father or grandfather taught or did not
LUCY KYLLONEN
Crossover’s Lead Pastor’s Wife &
CHOSEN Women’s Ministry Director Lucy has been leading Crossover’s Women’s Ministry since the year it was birthed in 2007. She takes an
active role in mentoring and discipling the women of
her church who commit to live as true women of God!
teach them about race, sex, money and responsibility.
TO KEEP TABS ON LUCY:
7PM, the last Thursday of every month, men of
Facebook: facebook.com/lucykyllonen
Crossover Church in Tampa, Florida are training in our
eMail: lucy@crossoverchurch.org Twitter & Instagram: lucyk813
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S.O.U.L.
Significance BY LUCY KYLLONEN
Aristotle said “You will never do anything in this world without courage.” Every day you and I need courage. We need courage at work. We need courage at home. We need courage on a daily basis to face the expected and unexpected circumstances that show up at our front door.
In the same chapter you have the story of the woman
accumulate in my face to which I felt I had no control
Because of her ailment she was labeled unclean,
life back to normal even if that meant draining the
who suffered for many years with chronic bleeding. unaccepted, unwanted, disconnected, isolated,
alone. But, she had the strength to hope and believe
WARNING: some of the content shared in this article may contain disturbing details. Reader discretion is advised.
It wasn’t until I was standing over the sink in the
was to be healed of her disease. She reaches out
image looking back at me when God directed me
was touch the hem of his garment. All she wanted
in desperation and Jesus turned and saw her.“Take Before he heals her, he imparts courage and then
he affirms her and redefines who she is. He affirmed
her as a daughter, included and invited to the family of God. He affirmed her faith and her salvation. A
woman isolated and shamed, now, He speaks new
life into her. You have a strong heart and your faith in your heart is what has healed you.
Today, courage is more synonymous with being
heroic like the fictional patriotic superhero Captain
I needed courage and took hold of it when I finally
shield or the small town girl Katniss Everdeen who
procrastinating for several years. With all the prayers
in Hunger Games. But the kind of courage Jesus talks
and confidence that this would be a trouble-free
an unexplainable energy and strength to overcome
days, my swelling and pain levels had increased.
the deepest core of our heart. Think about this for a
treated immediately could spread to my nerves and
is the Latin word for heart or in Spanish, “corazon.”
Amoxicillin and the additional procedures began.
which translates into “take heart” or “be encouraged.”
the inside out and placing a paste in it that left me
but ordinary courage is about our heart. It’s about
and the tears just roll out on their own. And then,
culture I’d say that’s pretty extraordinary!
and drainage because the antibiotic treatment alone
When you take a look at the story of the paralyzed
injections to numb my socket but the actual draining
healing. So desperate that he agrees to be lowered
from my internal abscess caused excruciating pain.
people wanting Jesus. His urgent need resulted in
it in the back of my throat. Nasty. The smell that was
be able to walk so that he wouldn’t have to depend
embarrassed, disgusted and repelled by the whole
outcast or feel uninvited. Desperation is met with
was required one more time before I was on the road
bathroom disgusted with the experience and the to another infection I wasn’t aware of. There were
toxins in my heart and in that moment of despair,
He let me see beyond the physical into the spiritual.
An abscess had developed in my heart from ministry hurt and disappointments that I had buried deep
down in the crevices of my heart. God wanted me to be just as disgusted with the infection in my
heart and be as quick to do what I can to remove it. He wanted to offer me a “newness” that he
had promised but could not be released until the
infection was removed which meant I had to make
America who is armed with an almost indestructible
agreed to have all four wisdom teeth removed after
uses her knowledge of hunting and archery to survive
and encouragement I received, I was filled with hope
about is so much different. It’s the kind that gives you
surgery. But God had other plans for me. After a few
fear by God’s indescribable love that penetrates to
Evidently, I had developed an abscess that if not
minute. The root of the word courage is “cor” which
bones. Without delay, I was placed on 2,000mg of
What if the issue you are facing today is really an
In the bible, the Greek word for courage is “tharseo”,
The first one involved cleaning out the socket from
forgiveness? Your own need for healing? What if
Heroics are often about putting our life on the line,
in excruciating pain. The kind where you go numb
putting our vulnerability on the line and in today’s
a week later my doctor had to perform an incision was inadequate in treating the infection. It took 3
man in Matthew 9, we see a man that is desperate for
which consisted of removing the collection of pus
from the ceiling into a jammed pack room of other
Pus would leak out from the tube and I would taste
extreme measures and he did whatever he could to
emitted from my open mouth was just foul. I was
on others anymore. So that he wouldn’t feel like an
experience and unfortunately the I & D procedure
hope when the paralyzed man finally meets the
to recovery.
“Take heart (courage), son; your sins are forgiven.”
Why am I sharing this unpleasant personal story
expecting to hear, but I can guarantee you it is exactly
and because the kind of courage I needed went
forgives him of his sins before he heals him.
to finally go through the surgery, turned into a
Miracle Worker face to face and Jesus’ response is,
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abscess on my own at home as needed.
that her life could be different and all she had to do
heart (courage), daughter, your faith has healed you.”
TAKE HEART
over. In desperation, my only focus was to have my
I’m pretty certain, those are not the words he was
with you? There is bravery needed in transparency
what he needed. Jesus imparts courage to him and
beyond the physical. What started out as just courage
myself vulnerable to clearly see beyond the surface. He gave me the courage to drain my heart from
the impurities, negativity, resentment and hurt. My inward transformation resulted in a much better
recovery and healing experience than what I asked
God for and what I had imagined and He whispered “Take heart Lucy, I will make you new.”
opportunity, leading you right to your own need for your place of frustration, difficulty, worry, or doubt is
just the footpath you need that will lead you to a new way of living? A new way of experiencing God? You see, when you take hold of courage to see beyond
what is in front of you, He loves you into a completely different experience than you expected. He loves
you into a new way of living. Take heart, because all
things - including the unspeakable things we prefer not to mention or talk about - God works all these
things for the good of those who love Him. Courage starts with your heart.
*Article inspired by the book Brave Enough by Nicole Unice
courage to fight this infection that caused toxicity to
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