Since the day Ridge Stone was started there has not been a single church that has influenced the ministry of The Stone more then New Spring Church in Anderson, S.C. To be honest I don't really remember how Perry and I crossed paths (I think it was on Terry Storch's blog) but it honestly was the best thing to happen to our church. In the last two years, our entire staff has met with various people on their staff on numerous occasions, I have personally been able to meet with Perry face to face several times, I have exchanged e-mails with him and phone calls, CRAP he even drove down here to meet with me ALL day at a Starbucks one day, we have brought in Jason Moorhead to consult with our church (EVERY church should do this), we have set in their staff meetings, etc.
Ridge Stone has been protected by some GREAT churches. However the first time we went to New Spring was the first time we saw someone doing church the way we imagined it being done. The music was beyond rocking, the creative elements were insane and Perry was letting it rip in a way that was still very relevant. For the first time we visually saw what RSC could be if we were faithful to God.
I believe with all my heart that New Spring is one of the greatest churches in America and their heart for reaching out to others is second to none.
I think they are one of the only mega churches around (there are others) that still remember what it is like to be a church plant.
I said all that to say this: They are holding their first conference!!!! I think this is great because it is affordable and it is done by guys getting it done. I am telling you to find the money (I think it is like $45 a person) and get your people to this conference. You will learn more in one day with these guys then you will for a week somewhere else.