I Heart War Machines - Day Ten

Sunday morning Jackie, Conor, and I made our way into town for a little church action. They went to the Cathedral and I decided to drop in on Hillsongs City Campus. The big Hillsongs Church is in the Hills, but this one I went to was still quite the production.


Upon entering the first thing that struck me was how different their "sanctuary" is from any other church I'd been to. The walls and ceiling were all black and the stage was brightly lit and colorful from the power point screens and various effects lighting. It was kinda like going to a concert. This is the only picture I could find online, and it doesn't really give you a sense of it unfortunately. It was really cool though, that's the only way I know how to describe it.

However as the service went on (and even before while waiting in the lobby) I felt quite uncomfortable at this church. Everyone was dressed stylishly and it just felt like I was surrounded by "the popular kids". The service was all ra ra ra and yay for everything. Didn't feel authentic to me and I was a little troubled with the way they asked for money and they dropped the "prosperity" bomb a couple times.

In looking at other blogs for pictures I came across a couple articles that are very similar to my experience. Check them out if you like. I'll quote some of what stood out to me.

http://www.reportage.uts.edu.au/stories/southside/hillsong2.html

"What has made Hillsong stand out among the plethora of churches trying to attract young parishioners is its trendy image embracing of values that idealise financial success and looking good in order to feel good."

"A young woman takes centre stage and leads the choir in a power ballad dedicated to the glory of heaven. Except for the religious overtones it seems remarkably similar to something you would expect to hear on commercial radio."

"Between songs there are sermons and what seem like motivational speakers from a real estate convention all of which the crowd happily listen to and politely applauds, but it’s the music that gets everyone out of their seats."

http://www.chaser.com.au/content/view/2988/127/

"I realised this rock concert-like show, full of literal smoke and mirrors, is what makes people think they’re in the presence of God."

"All in all, it seemed to me that people weren’t there for the teachings of Christ, out of a fear of death or sickness, or to find a partner or friends. They were there for the experience. They were there for a feeling of community - to be part of a group of people being warm and positive – a legitimate craving in our increasing insular lives. It is just a pity they’re asked to pay so much for it."


After the service I went and got some lunch at McDonald's (my first time in Australia!). Then I met up with Jackie and Conor near the Aquarium. We were planning on going inside, but decided to check out the Maritime Museum instead. Good choice Conor!

At the museum they had a submarine and a destroyer. Our first stop was the submarine.


Torpedo tubes


An adventure around every corner!


Comfortable living space


The kitchen is the same size as Jackie & Conor's kitchen


















Shot of the city from on top of the submarine


Now to the Destroyer!




This is where you load the ammunition that spirals up to the guns above.


Like this one






Being on this ship reminded me so much of the Frigate in Goldeneye. It was breathtaking.


Jackie is foodsafe




"Make it so!"


I also once took a nap in Alcatraz


You had to pay more to get onto this ship...

Inside the museum they had loads of interesting stuff I didn't take pictures of. After that we went to check out downtown Sydney. Some lady dropped a dollar and I picked it up for her. I think she winked at me.


Downtown Sydney


The Famous Harbour Bridge,


and the Opera House,


with Jackie & Conor,


and my giant head.


For supper we weren't sure where to go. We walked by this place and I thought it looked interesting so in we went. What we didn't realize was that at this place you cook your own meat!


You buy your meat and head over to the grill. Throw it on with some seasoning and away you go. They had potatoes and a salad bar which you could load up on the side.


I loved it there and really enjoyed my meal. Afterwards we took the train back to Bernard's house. Saw some interesting bugs and had ourselves a wonderful night's sleep.

End of Day Ten.