Capstone Event FAQs
 

• What happens when someone rejects you or declines what you are offering?
  
  • Some people do not want to interact with our teams and that’s okay. We will attempt to offer them a Bible but will kindly leave them with no hard feelings.
• Do you think you will successfully combat gun violence with a prayer and a Bible?
  • No. What we do believe is that if we extend a loving gesture it can become contagious and those acts of kindness will continue. It is our hope and prayer that an act of kindness will change someone’s heart.
• Why does TCHLTB only occur once a year?
  • Currently, Springhill only has the resources to allow for TCHLTB to occur once per calendar year.  As our volunteer participation increases, we hope to add a second event per year.
• Churches are notorious for scandals. Most recently Pastor John Gray has been under constant fire. Why should this community trust Springhill’s efforts?
  • At Springhill, we do not claim perfection and warn people that Springhill is NOT a perfect church. We are human beings who love Jesus Christ and are working daily to live our lives to reflect his love. We hope the community will receive our efforts as a display of Christ’s love and trust His word.
• What does Springhill gain from TCHLTB?
  • Historically we have gained visibility on social media and word-of-mouth buzz. That’s it. There is no financial gain to Springhill. 
• Can other churches participate?
  • Yes. Other willing churches may participate.
• Can other religions participate?
  • We acknowledge that brothers and sisters of different faiths share the common goal of decreasing violence in our city. We welcome the opportunity to work on a collaborative effort.
• Can individuals with no religious affiliation participate?
  • We acknowledge that others share the common goal of decreasing violence in our city. We welcome the opportunity to work on a collaborative effort. Hopefully, these individuals will become curious about our faith and want to learn more!
• If this is what the church is “supposed” to do, then why don’t we see things like this more often?
  • Churches should do more outreach efforts. Springhill regularly opens up our facility to assist with community programs and local government support. We hope that other religious centers will do more as we continue to increase our efforts. 
• If this is what the church is “supposed” to do, then why the media coverage?
  • We hope the more people see the church acting responsibly, it will dispel rumors and negative stereotypes. We need the media’s partnership to get the proper message out.
• The shootings in Gainesville happened months ago. Why did you schedule TCHLTB in June and not sooner?
  • Due to limited resources we were unable to implement this year’s event sooner than already scheduled.
• If someone decides to join a church, but wishes not to be a partner at Springhill will you turn them away?
  • No. We have contacts at most Gainesville churches and will gladly put the individual in touch with the staff at the church of their choice.
• Historical African-American churches were burned down in Louisiana recently. Do you fear the same fate for churches in our area?
  • We recognize this to be a sad reality and remain in sincere prayer with those who have been impacted. We also pray we will not see such acts in our city.
• Why not have a regular church service and invite people to come?
  • Some people are not comfortable in a church environment. Providing a spiritual ‘house call’ may help them gain courage to visit a local church of their choice.
• Will your teams engage with and pray for individuals who identify with the LGBTQ community?
  • Yes. Our teams will offer prayer to anyone who is willing to accept.
• Are the teams able to coordinate counseling for those who request it?
  • Yes. We will take names for “follow up” and engage the proper contacts per the individual’s need.
• How will results be reported?
  • Each team will have a recorder who will note all activities and quantities. These data will be compiled at the end of the day and shared during the wrap-up session.
• Are there safety concerns with TCHLTB?
  • Yes. We will have people in place to respond to emergencies concerning our volunteers.
• Where will the teams visit?
  • Various elder care facilities; apartment complexes; home-bound Springhill members; and Gainesville first responders.
• How do you determine where to visit?
  • We call elder care facilities a month in advance to get permission to visit and assign teams where permission has been granted. Apartment complexes are within a one-mile radius or a short drive from Springhill Church.