Mark Driscoll announces new church opening date

Mark Driscoll is leading a new church in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The official opening of Mark Driscoll's new Trinity Church has been pencilled in for August 7, the former pastor of Mars Hill has announced in a video message.

Driscoll has been leading a congregation at the former Glass and Garden Church in Scottsdale, Arizona, over the last few weeks. 

In his latest video, reported by blogger Warren Throckmorton, Driscoll speaks of how renovation and alteration work on the church is progressing, including work to install modern sound, light and projection equipment.

In his video message Driscoll speaks of ambitious plans for a children's ministry and two services each Sunday morning. He refers to the more than 1,000 hours put in by volunteers at the church, saying: "You have ripped up carpets, you have painted walls, you have cleaned toilets, you are amazing!"

In a written message he says: "Thank you to everyone who has given of your finances, prayers, and service. It's amazing to see how much can get done when hard working people pull together for the cause of Jesus Christ!"

The Glass and Garden Church building, designed by architect E Logan Campbell in a style associated with Frank Lloyd Wright, was built 50 years ago with an adjacent drive-in church. It seats 1,400 people and has around four and a half acres of ground.

Driscoll's previous church imploded after revelations connected with his management style and closed at the end of 2014. He and previous leaders of the church are facing racketeering charges based on allegations they misled the congregation about the use of church funds.

related articles
Mark Driscoll corrupted Mars Hill\'s mission with \'institutionalised racketeering\', says lawsuit
Mark Driscoll corrupted Mars Hill's mission with 'institutionalised racketeering', says lawsuit

Mark Driscoll corrupted Mars Hill's mission with 'institutionalised racketeering', says lawsuit

Former Mars Hill elder Sutton Turner offers to meet racketeering plaintiffs
Former Mars Hill elder Sutton Turner offers to meet racketeering plaintiffs

Former Mars Hill elder Sutton Turner offers to meet racketeering plaintiffs

Fast-tracked restoration: Why is Mark Driscoll already back in church leadership?
Fast-tracked restoration: Why is Mark Driscoll already back in church leadership?

Fast-tracked restoration: Why is Mark Driscoll already back in church leadership?

Mark Driscoll\'s released a video on anorexia. But does he really understand it?
Mark Driscoll's released a video on anorexia. But does he really understand it?

Mark Driscoll's released a video on anorexia. But does he really understand it?

News
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'

Reform MP Danny Kruger has spoken of the need for Britain to once more assert itself as a  country with a long and rich Christian Heritage.

400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions
400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions

Sex selective abortions appear to be taking place within the Indian community, data suggests.

Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity
Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity

Community pantries across the UK have recorded their one millionth visit, as new research suggests the membership-based food model is helping thousands of households reduce food insecurity, cut costs and prevent them from falling into extreme hardship.

Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India
Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India

India has witnessed a blend of joyful Christmas celebrations in many parts of the country, alongside reports of hate, hostility, and attacks on Christians this season, particularly in northern and central regions.