Lead Pastor, Brian Pacheco, says the name of their church was inspired by the most distinctive peak among the range of the Superstition Mountains. The 'Flatiron Peak' as it is known, is called for resembling just that, as it juts out 2,500 feet above. What they may not have realized is that the Flatiron is one of the most challenging hikes, being rugged and vertical, and taking anywhere from 4-6 hours to climb. However, once at the top, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view from an awe-inspiring vantage point.
It may in fact mirror life in many ways, for the challenging paths we must navigate in order to win perspective and gratitude. Brian and his staff have worked for at least a year to open their church, which had their grand opening in July of this year at the Combs Performing Arts Center. In the future, with continued support, they are excited to see how Flatiron Church will grow and develop.
They were drawn to the area, not only for the view of Flatiron, but also recognizing the need for more churches in an area with rapid population growth. Their congregation hails from wider areas too, but the reception has been undeniable. The 400 or so strong that attend services is something Brian is still amazed by and very appreciative of. Often, people come to church, 'because they have questions' says Brian, 'but the community they find here makes them stay'.
Flatiron Church is also active in providing many outreach events, gathering basic supplies to the underserved, and even creating a clothes pantry in which they collect children's clothes that go directly to needy children. Brian says that, 'we are called to generosity because we have a generous God.' Clearly, the practice of giving is important, but as we head into the holiday of Thanksgiving, I asked Brian about gratitude as well.
Whether a person attends church or not, we all practice gratitude in our own way. A simple 'thank you' does more than exhibit politeness. Brian says that gratitude, 'is a response to being loved and connected'. Two things that certainly have a great bearing on each person's happiness and self-worth. Therefore, since we know how good it feels to receive thanks, we should not forget to practice it daily and not just once a year.
In his own life, Brian and his wife, Belinda, are parents to Cora, 8, Calvin, 6, Mia, 4, and Ruby, 2. Their family usually takes Thanksgiving with their family back in Illinois. The only major holiday they can go, since Christmas is rather a big deal in his line of work. While appreciating some family time up north, Brian says he is grateful for so much more too. The growth of Flatiron Church, which has gone from two to now seven staff members, and the continued support raised through donations.
Brian says that from the amazing families that come to services, to the many wonderful opportunities the church has had so far in its reach and development, they continue to thank their community. The practice of gratitude appears to be cyclical, by giving you also get much. Although, Brian says it is important to give without the expectation of receiving anything. That may well be the aim, but the practice of thanks and giving is an investment that just can't help but get a return.
So as we sit down to our gatherings around food and family, we will give thanks for our many blessings and for one another. Only, let us remember to do so more regularly and to take the opportunities when we can to say thanks.