Who is Dr. Layne McDonald?

Dr. Layne McDonald is a Christian pastor, creative director, musician, filmmaker, and author based in Memphis, Tennessee. He leads Boundless Online Church and serves at First Assembly Memphis. He is the creator of over 2,000 original songs and multiple faith-based books, with all royalties supporting families in need and anti-human-trafficking ministries.

How many songs has Dr. Layne McDonald recorded?

Dr. Layne McDonald has recorded and released over 2,000 original songs across genres including Christian worship, gospel, country, instrumental focus music, and wedding music. His catalog is available on Spotify, Apple Music, iHeartRadio, and other streaming platforms.

Where can I stream Layne McDonald's music?

You can stream Layne McDonald's music on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/artist/0pTfrIRTGXVXMtwtYAIPJH), Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/artist/layne-mcdonald/), YouTube (@laynemcdonald), iHeartRadio, and other major streaming platforms. Every stream generates royalties that fund families in need and anti-trafficking missions.

What is Boundless Online Church?

Boundless Online Church is a digital ministry led by Dr. Layne McDonald's team, connected with First Assembly Memphis in Cordova, Tennessee. It provides virtual worship services, group Bible studies, digital prayer meetings, and online small groups for people seeking spiritual community from anywhere in the world. Visit boundlessonlinechurch.org to learn more.

How do royalties from Layne McDonald's music help families?

Every time one of Dr. Layne McDonald's songs is streamed, purchased, or played on Spotify, Apple Music, or other platforms, it generates royalties. These royalties are used to support families who have lost children and to fund organizations that rescue women and children from human trafficking. Every click, stream, and ad view on laynemcdonald.com contributes directly to this mission.

What books has Dr. Layne McDonald written?

Dr. Layne McDonald has authored several faith-based books including 'Blue Oceans,' 'United in Faith,' 'Healing and Forgiveness Through Christ,' 'From Pulpit to Premiere,' 'Faithful Leadership,' 'Authentic Christian Pastoral Leadership,' and 'Faith Unbound.' His books are available in print, ebook, and free PDF format at laynemcdonald.com/books.

Is Dr. Layne McDonald's music free to listen to?

Yes. Dr. Layne McDonald's music is free to stream on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and iHeartRadio. You can also listen directly on laynemcdonald.com/music. While listening is free, every stream generates royalty revenue that is donated to families in need and anti-trafficking causes.

What genres does Layne McDonald make music in?

Layne McDonald creates music across many genres including Christian worship, gospel, country and Americana, instrumental focus and study music, wedding and romantic music, and deep thinking/meditation music. His 2,000+ song catalog covers a wide range of moods and purposes.

How can I support the anti-trafficking mission?

You can support Dr. Layne McDonald's anti-trafficking mission for free by streaming his music on Spotify or Apple Music, reading his blog posts, watching his videos on YouTube, and clicking through content on laynemcdonald.com. You can also make a direct donation, shop the store at laynemcdonald.com/category/all-products, or purchase one of his books.

Does Dr. Layne McDonald offer coaching or consulting?

Yes. Dr. Layne McDonald offers Christian leadership coaching, pastoral consulting, and creative mentoring. You can learn more and book a session at laynemcdonald.com/consulting.

Memphis News: 9 Things to Do in Memphis This Weekend , July 18-19: Vintage Market, Back-to-School Bash, Live Music & More

Dr. Layne McDonald
Jul 18
5 min read

Direct Answer: Looking for weekend plans? From the Totally Rad Vintage Fest and back-to-school giveaways to live music at W.J. Freeman Park and Redbirds baseball at AutoZone Park, there are 9 major events happening in Memphis this weekend, July 18-19.

Summary: Summer weekends in the Bluff City are a unique gift, offering residents a chance to step away from the daily grind and reconnect with neighbors. This Saturday and Sunday, Memphis is alive with culture, from the nostalgia of vintage markets to the essential community support of school supply drives, all designed to foster unity across our neighborhoods.

By Dr. Layne McDonald, Founder of Memphis News with a Purpose

A Weekend of Community, Culture, and Connection

In Memphis, we believe that how we spend our time matters. As we navigate the mid-July heat, our city offers a refreshing array of activities that do more than just entertain, they build the fabric of our community. Whether you are a parent preparing for the upcoming school year, a fan of the arts, or simply looking for a peaceful way to enjoy a summer evening, this weekend has something for you.

Saturday, July 18: Markets and Mentorship

1. Totally Rad Vintage Festival

Renasant Convention Center | 10:00 AM The Renasant Convention Center transforms into a time capsule this Saturday. The Totally Rad Vintage Festival features a curated selection of 80s and 90s fashion, vinyl records, and retro gaming. It is a wonderful opportunity to support small business owners and find unique treasures that celebrate the creativity of the past.

2. Back 2 School Bash at Tanger Outlets

Tanger Outlets Southaven | 11:00 AM Preparing for the classroom shouldn't be a burden. Tanger Outlets is hosting a celebratory event featuring free school supply giveaways, face painting, and even haircuts for students. It’s a great way to help our youth feel confident and equipped for their educational journey.

3. Back-to-School Giveaway & Health Fair

New Hope Missionary Baptist Church | 10:00 AM Faith in action is on full display at New Hope. Beyond just school supplies, this event provides vital health screenings and community resources. It serves as a reminder that our churches are often the heartbeat of local wellness and support.

4. Young Actors Guild , Lion King Jr.

Cannon Center for the Performing Arts | 6:00 PM Supporting the arts is a form of investment in our children's future. The Young Actors Guild presents a youth production of the Disney classic. Witnessing the discipline and talent of our local youth is always an inspiring experience for the whole family.

5. Millington Library Foam Party

Millington Public Library | 12:00 PM Looking for a way to beat the heat? The Millington Public Library is hosting a free foam party for families. It’s a simple, joyful way for kids to engage with their local library and enjoy the summer sun safely.

Saturday Evening: Sports and Song

6. Memphis Redbirds vs. Iowa Cubs

AutoZone Park | 7:00 PM There is nothing quite like a summer night at AutoZone Park. The Redbirds continue their home stand against the Iowa Cubs. With fireworks displays and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a perfect venue to practice the "Christian Peacemaker" strategy by engaging with fans from all walks of life over a shared love of the game.

7. Bartlett Live Music Series

W.J. Freeman Park | 7:00 PM If you prefer a more laid-back evening, head to Bartlett for the free outdoor concert series. Bring a lawn chair, some cold water, and enjoy live music under the stars. These gatherings remind us of the simple beauty in God’s creation and the gift of song.

Saturday and Sunday: Love and Legacy

8. Black Bridal Expo Weekend

Memphis Botanic Garden | 1:00 PM (Both Days) Celebrating the sacred union of marriage, this expo at the Botanic Garden brings together the city's top wedding vendors. From floral designs to travel planning, it’s a space to celebrate family legacy and the beauty of commitment.

9. Grind City Amp Rooftop

Downtown Memphis | Thursday-Saturday For those looking for a panoramic view of our city, the Grind City Amp rooftop offers live music and craft beverages. Overlooking the Mississippi River, it’s a space to reflect on the vastness of God’s providence and the history of the Bluff City.

Christian Takeaway

In a world that often feels divided, weekend gatherings in Memphis are a "Green Light" for unity. Scripture tells us, "How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!" (Psalm 133:1). When we attend a ballgame, a concert, or a school supply drive, we aren't just consumers, we are neighbors. We have a unique opportunity to demonstrate the love of Christ through our kindness, our patience in crowds, and our willingness to serve those in need.

How to Pray and Engage

Pray for our students: As the back-to-school season approaches, pray for the safety, wisdom, and peace of every student and teacher in the Memphis area.
Engage with intention: When you attend an event this weekend, make it a point to speak to someone you don't know. A simple "hello" can be the start of a bridge-building conversation.
Support local: Many of these events feature small local vendors. Pray for the success of our city's entrepreneurs as they work to provide for their families.

Peacemaker's Perspective

Being a peacemaker in the "storms" of our modern world often starts with small, local actions. By showing up for our community, whether at a church health fair or a public library event, we signal that we are invested in the well-being of others. Choosing to be present and positive in public spaces is a powerful way to counteract the noise of conflict and show the "balanced, unbiased" love that our city needs.

❓ FAQ

Are the back-to-school events open to everyone? Most community back-to-school events are open to the public, though supplies are often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to arrive early.

What should I bring to the Bartlett Live Music Series? Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks. It is a family-friendly environment perfect for a picnic.

Where can I find more Memphis news and community updates? You can find daily updates and faith-based perspectives on all major Memphis stories at www.laynemcdonald.com/news-memphis.

Is there a cost for the Totally Rad Vintage Festival? Yes, there is typically a general admission fee for the festival at the Renasant Convention Center. Check their official website for current ticket pricing and "early bird" options.

CTA: This weekend, pick one event from this list and invite a neighbor who might be going through a tough time. Which event will you choose to be a peacemaker at?

Dr. Layne McDonald

Finding your true calling.