ArkALMIGHTY is an inspirational good deeds programme recently launched in the US to match churches with the talents and skills they need.
Inspired by Universal Pictures' Evan Almighty and the book Conspiracy of Kindness: A Refreshing New Approach to Sharing the Love of Jesus with Others by Pastor Steve Sjogren, ArkALMIGHTY is designed to enable youth groups and churches to get involved more easily in practical and tangible volunteer outreach via the internet.
Gathering the needs of church attendees, these requests are compiled on a Craigslist-type website (ArkALMIGHTY.com) administered by the church. Members of the congregation can then easily search through the needs and find ways they can help.
"In my many years of doing projects to creatively urge the church to become outward, ArkALMIGHTY stands in a class by itself," said Sjogren. "Ultimately, effectiveness and results needs to be measured - changed lives. With ArkALMIGHTY, change is happening already!"
Over 400 churches, including Willow Creek, have already signed up for the ministry through ArkALMIGHTY.com, and thousands more are expected.
"The idea of doing acts of random kindness and expecting nothing in return was an idea that was close to the very heart of Christ (Matt. 6:4)," said Paul Braoudakis, Communications Director of the Willow Creek Association.
"I'm thrilled that churches all over the US will be participating in the ArkALMIGHTY campaign this summer. I can think of no greater way that the church can be the hands and feet of Christ than by doing selfless acts for others that reflect His love."
Partnering with Grace Hill Media on ArkALMIGHTY are Youth Specialties, Outreach Inc, the International Bible Society and the Willow Creek Association.
"We're honoured that some of the most respected names in Christian ministry have come aboard ArkALMIGHTY," said Jonathan Bock, President of Grace Hill Media, the company that launched the campaign and website. "The potential for changed lives is limitless as ArkALMIGHTY strives to help people right where they need it most."
Visit http://www.arkalmighty.com for more information.
