SETUP

---

• Tent Setup is more than logistics — it’s spiritual.
• You’re transforming an ordinary field into a holy place.
• It mirrors the Old Testament tabernacle—setting up a place where God will meet us.
• It's both difficult and beautiful—hard physical work, but deeply meaningful.
• The excitement builds as the structure takes form — the field becomes Revival Ground.

• Setup is directed by our evangelist team (often just 1-2 people) and requires a volunteer crew from the church.
• Recommended: 25 able-bodied volunteers for medium/large tents.
• Volunteers of all abilities can help — lighter tasks are available.
• Setup typically happens Tuesday evening, with final items added Friday morning before service (to avoid extra days of security).

⚠️ BIG RULE: No one should ever walk on the tent with shoes on. This causes holes. Ask the pastor to help enforce this rule.
 

• We will park the trailer near the setup site (not on it) and keep it hitched for stability.
• Use various measuring tapes to check the fit and mark placement
• The church needs to have previously called to verify there are no underground utilities (811 or local equivalent).
   

• Lay down tarps before unloading the tent.
• Stack chairs and other equipment neatly to save space and stay organized.
   

• Lay out all vinyl sections.
• Pull from grommets or brackets, never from the vinyl edge.
• The Evangelist will lace tent sections from the center outward. 
• Secure ends tightly with extra knots.
   

• Volunteers surround the tent and pull from all sides to eliminate wrinkles.
• This is your last chance to adjust tent placement before staking.

• Use spray paint to mark:
  • Each corner (2 stakes)
  • Off of Every side grommet (about 5 ft away)
• Use corner marks for accurate layout — not the tent itself.
   

• Leave 6 inches above ground for removal.
• Drive at a very slight angle away from the tent.
• Be aware of strap types — some attach before driving the stake.
   

• These are critical for tent stability.
• DO NOT RELEASE until the tent is fully down later.
   

• Raise only a few side poles as directed by the evangelist. 
• Don't get ahead of what you are directed to do, putting up too many side poles will prevent us from lifting the center poles. 
• Leave straps a bit loose — makes raising center poles easier.
   

• Push the pole through both metal grommets (for stability).
• Keep it as plumb (straight) as possible.
   

• Continue this pattern:
  • Raise side poles → raise center pole → repeat.
     

• Save back wall poles for last.
• Once all poles are up:
  • Tighten and straighten each side pole.
  • Roll up excess straps as a visual "check mark."
     

• These prevent the tent from lifting in high winds.
• Pull hard and tie each to a pole.
   

• Confirm power source location (usually behind stage).
• Use patio string lights around the edge and flood lights overhead.
• Secure flood lights with:
  • Weak tape (first layer) then
  • Strong duct tape
• Run cords down the pole and under chairs.
   

• Continue to re-inspect every strap and pole. Re-level and tighten until perfect.
• Setup any baptism changing tents, tables, signage, etc.
   

• Time estimate: 3–4 hours with a good crew.
• Avoid unnecessary setup (like chairs and sound) until Friday morning to reduce security needs.
• Expect fun, fellowship, and excitement as Revival begins to take shape.