“All of the vision I ever need is found in the valley of need. Need creates vision.” - Matthew Barnett
Pastor Matthew Barnett, founder of the LA Dream Center, has dedicated his life to serving those facing homelessness, hunger, and addiction. What started as a three-month commitment turned into a transformative movement that has inspired churches worldwide to establish their own dream centers. As Dino Rizzo puts it, “Where would LA be without the LA Dream Center and Pastor Matthew Barnett?”
In the latest episode of Unscripted, we take you on an exclusive tour of the Dream Center, showcasing powerful testimonies from individuals who have found hope and healing there. You'll hear directly from a former gang member and a woman who overcame abuse, both of whom are now sober and passionate about their faith.
Highlights of the episode include:
Behind-the-Scenes Access: Visit the 14th floor, home to men in a year-long recovery program, many recovering from fentanyl addiction and rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Witness the 15th floor where women are recovering from addition and self harm.
Life-Changing Impact: With tens of thousands having passed through its programs, the Dream Center exemplifies how setbacks and victories are all part of serving those in need.
Championing Outreach: Matthew and Dino discuss the importance of churches becoming "YES Churches," ready to meet community needs.
Actionable Strategies: Matthew shares practical advice for starting outreach efforts, stressing the importance of small, consistent steps. (Just. Get. Started.)
Engaging the Church: Learn how church members can serve as case managers, fostering a hands-on approach to support families in need in their community.
As the conversation unfolds, Matthew and Dino candidly discuss the challenges of outreach work and the importance of caring for those who feel invisible and broken. One of Pastor Matthew’s biggest pieces of advice to pastors? “Throw yourselves into the lives of people. Serve like Jesus. Don’t worry about being an overnight success.”
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The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
