After I sent the final Grace email, I received a reply from Jim Fikkert. Jim is an old friend, Seth’s brother, and the pastor of Communion Church in Mount Vernon.

His church meets in the beautiful old Salem Lutheran building—a 1920s brick neo gothic building with arched wooden doors, stained glass, a steeple, and a glorious pipe organ. Years ago, another church met in that same building: The Gathering.

Jim’s email read:

This may have made my eyes a little wet. Would love to have you come and perform those songs, with the people from the past, in the place where they were written. Just let me know when you are up for it.

I was up for it, but only if we could truly do it as he said with the people from the past. I started sending messages to gauge interest. I didn’t find mere interest, I found excitement. I also found a date that works for everyone: August 7th. Most of us still live in the area, but the ones who don't are making the trek. Jeff Morrow is driving up from Bend, OR. Craig and Jackie Marais are flying their family in from Southern California.

It’s actually happening.

We’re going to play Grace in the place where it was born, with the people who were there. It’ll be a massive, blended band: me, Seth & Lauren Fikkert, Jono Orange, Jeff Morrow, Audrey Stout, Craig & Jackie Marais. As if that wasn't enough, we’re also going to be the backing band for Micah Kelley for a few songs. Oh, and did I mention John Van Deusen will be playing a set of his own?

AAAAGHHHH!! Pinch me. This is going to be amazing!

Your Summer Vacation: Mount Vernon

At just $25 a ticket, this is the best destination music value you’ll find this year. Make a trip of it! Here, I'll even pretend to be your travel agent:

• Stay: Camp at Deception Pass or book a cozy B&B in La Conner.
• Eat: Grab oysters at Taylor Shellfish Farm or ice cream at Snow Goose Produce.
• The Main Event: Join us the evening of August 7th for a celebration of the people and place that set all of this in motion.

I can't wait!

Get your tickets quick. With this lineup in this space, it will definitely sell out.

Talk soon...