All of the wiring from the amplifiers to the monitors was replaced and we then reinstalled the painted speakers, spreading them so that the projector could find its target between them without shadows appearing on the screen.
It may not sound as though we did much, but we put in a 15 hour day of work, with no option but to complete the task so that the church could have their scheduled Sunday morning service.
We had never gotten a chance to hear what the system sounded like before we arrived as they had already disconnected the equipment at the FOH position.
So we went into this project a bit blind, not being able to hear what they had experienced in the past and exactly what was causing the described problems. Being satisfied with how well the systems now sounded and functioned, we walked out of the building feeling blessed in knowing that everything was now set in order correctly.
Was it rewarding? You bet it was! At times it was difficult, but when you love doing something, it honestly doesn’t feel like work. What a feeling of accomplishment when everyone from the church is smiling and telling you how much better things look and sound.
Where To Next?
When does our mentoring process come to an end? With one visit? One month? One year? I say it could well create associations and friendships that last for life.
After the weekend at this church, I invited their team to come down to our assembly for a clinic later this Spring.
How can they continue their learning without our continued support? Our setting is different than what they are used to, but the basic principles are always the same.
Your Turn!
We all know that this is an ever-expanding and evolving field and we must desire to attain more knowledge than we currently possess. Think about the nuggets of information that you have acquired. Remember the times that you learned the hard way.
Now is perhaps the time to begin looking around at the other churches in your circle of influence to share information and various experiences that you have had.
Twenty years worth of experience is not necessarily required to start mentoring others, as all knowledge and experience is valuable.
By suggesting that you mentor someone, I am not advising that you should get in over your head or volunteer to renovate someone’s sound system if you are unqualified.
Realize your limitations. Most of the guys that are less experienced than you are crave information and guidance but don’t have a good source to go to. Many of them will not ask, but if you offer, they will gladly accept the help.
We all need each other! Maybe you would only feel comfortable reaching out to those in your immediate church organization. I can understand that, but don’t just contemplate it, go ahead and do it. You have not been given the talent in these areas just to take it to your grave, who will profit from that?
So I ask, what do you want the end result of this passion for technology to be? It could lead into far more than one might expect, as in blessing a church with your expertise and, in the process, making new friends for life.
Let’s all put forth an effort to become a mentor to those who would benefit from our knowledge, and to God be the glory.
Jeremy Montz is the Tech Director at Lighthouse Tabernacle
Have you ever mentored or been mentored? What were the benefits? Who could you mentor in the month of May?
Ready to learn and laugh? Chris Huff writes about the world of church audio at Behind The Mixer. He covers everything from audio fundamentals to dealing with musicians. He can even tell you the signs the sound guy is having a mental breakdown.