“You’re starting a mission church?  What’s that?  Why are you starting a new church?”

If I had a nickel for every time I have heard that question over the past month, I’d be a rich man.  For those of you who haven’t heard yet, we are starting a new church in the DC area called St. Timothy & St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox church. 

The concept is similar to the “mission church” idea that has sprung up in some spots of Canada and America [see www.smsv.ca and www.stpaulchicago.org] – one where we can share Christ and our Coptic Orthodox faith without some of the cultural barriers that might hinder the spread of the gospel in America.

Not that I needed a reminder, but just in case I did, God gave me one this morning.  He reminded me of why we are doing what we are doing.  This morning I read Acts chapter 10 – the story of Cornelius.  It is a wonderful story that I encourage everyone to read.  But if you need a quick summary, here is what happens.