Viral Interaction with a Homeless Man at Church

Initial Reaction to Event Going Viral

• Did not know it went viral until phone started blowing up.
• Church did not post the video to avoid exploitation concerns.
• Decision made by marketing director Tiffany Brown and the team.
• Someone recorded and posted the video without the church's knowledge.

Details Leading Up to the Viral Moment

• Sermon on core values, specifically celebrating life change.
• Initial interaction: Anthony yelled a compliment about pastor's shoes.
• Further interaction: Anthony yells another expletive during sermon on Pharisees.
• Pastor Ed Newton acknowledges the accuracy but addresses the language due to children present.

The Encounter Onstage

• Anthony stated “this guy saved my life,” leading to the reveal that Anthony was homeless.
• Emotional revelation about Anthony's suicidal intentions that day.
• Michael, the man who brought Anthony, seen as a hero.
• Michael’s actions demonstrated living out the sermon, highlighting the theme of leaving the 99 to find the one.

Aftermath and Immediate Response

• Anthony and Michael were invited to the stage and shared their story.
• Congregation responded by donating $5,000 on the altar.
• Moments of other congregational needs addressed.
• 35 people came forward to accept Jesus by the end of the service.

Steps Taken to Help Anthony

• Anthony was held for 72 hours after revealing suicidal thoughts.
• Church engaged in continual outreach through member Frank Kirby.
• Anthony initially refused rehab and returned to the streets for weeks.
• Anthony eventually returned, expressing a desire to go to rehab.
• Church provided a bus ticket and continues supporting him with care packages and communication.

Background of Pastor Ed Newton

• Only child of deaf parents, uniquely situated to be their voice and later a pastor.
• Childhood experience with parental discrimination shaped empathy for the underprivileged.
• Personal development as a translator for his parents highlighted his calling.
• Transformation from student pastor to leader of the church.

Key Takeaways

• Michael epitomizes the sermon by bringing and supporting Anthony.
• Community support significantly impacted Anthony’s choices toward rehabilitation.
• Pastor Ed uses experiences to deeply connect and respond empathetically to individual needs.
• Emphasized principle: Do for one what you hope to do for all.

Future Plans

• Ongoing support for Anthony through church resources.
• Potential celebration planned if Anthony successfully completes rehab.
• Pastor Ed plans to keep congregation involved and updated.