2011 /20 12 W INTER MINISTRY GUIDE
• • • WELCOME • • •
B
ack in 1985 when the Lord began to burden my heart for the birthing of a new congregation in this area, three things from the Word of God were clearly revealed to me in regard to worship:
1. Unhurried praise and adoration of our Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, Lord, and the Head of this church. This includes a regular time for breaking of bread at the Lord’s Table. 2. Prayer and intercession as an expression of our utter dependence on our heavenly Father through Jesus Christ in all things. 3. Bold proclamation that is relevant and instructive. Because we believe that the Bible is God’s self-revelation and therefore contains all the answers to all of man’s problems and needs, we preach it with all of its authority.
• • • WORSHIP • • • SUNDAYS
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS
Our Sunday schedule features three worship services: 9:00 and 10:30 A.M., and 5:30 P.M. Dr. Youssef speaks in person in both of the morning services and via high definition video in the evening service. Every service includes a time of worship through singing, prayer, and teaching.
On Wednesday evenings at 6:15 P.M. we offer programs for everyone in your family. The Hour of Power is our midweek service that includes a time of worship and an extended time of prayer. Come early at 5:00 P.M. for a family dinner (no reservations are needed) and then stay for the Hour of Power and for our great programs for children and students!
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EQ UIPPING THE SAINTS FOR TH E WORK OF THE MINISTRY.
WHAT WE BELIEVE GOD HAS DONE IN HISTORY We believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. We believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic* Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. *As used in this ancient creed, the word catholic means “universal.” It refers to our belief in one worldwide church of believers, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Cornerstone. It does not refer to the Roman Catholic Church. (Ephesians 2:19-20)
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201 1/2 012 WINTE R MINISTRY GUIDE
• • • CHILDREN’S MINISTRY • • •
And Jesus took the children in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them – Mark 10:16
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
AGE 2 – 3 3RD FLOOR | VISITOR CHECK-IN AT KIOSK
FEBRUARY 18, 2012
The children will hear stories of God’s faithfulness through the Old and New Testaments.
DADS & DAUGHTERS
MARCH 29, 2012 A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION FOR WOMEN OF ALL AGES
JUNE 11-15 VBS 2012 – WE ARE HEADING WEST!
SUNDAY 9:00 - 10:15 A.M.
AGE 4 3RD FLOOR | VISITOR CHECK-IN AT KIOSK The children will discover the wonder of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit by studying His attributes in the Old and New Testaments.
SPECIAL STONES ROOM 309 Special Needs Children
INFANT – AGE 2 3RD FLOOR | VISITOR CHECK-IN AT KIOSK
KINDERGARTEN & 1ST GRADE
Loving Nursery Care and Bible Stories
4TH FLOOR Jesus, What a Savior! A Study for Children on Redemption
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EQ UIPPING THE SAINTS FOR TH E WORK OF THE MINISTRY.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT
2ND GRADE 5TH FLOOR Faithful to All His Promises
INFANT – KINDERGARTEN 3rd Floor Check-in
3RD GRADE 5TH FLOOR
RUNNING CHURCH In the Beginning . . . Jesus: A Chronological Study of Redemptive History
1ST – 4TH GRADE 6:00 P.M. – 7:15 P.M. | 4TH FLOOR CHECK-IN Both preschoolers and elementary children enjoy this midweek time of Bible teaching and fun activities on the playground, in the gym, and on “the green.” Come for family night supper, which begins at 5:00 P.M.
4TH GRADE 5TH FLOOR | VISITOR CHECK-IN AT KIOSK To Be Like Jesus
APOSTLELOT (2ND – 4TH GRADE) Children gather together at the end of Sunday morning classes for Assembly where they visit the land of "Apostlelot." Kingdom characters (and the kids!) learn how to work through real life dilemmas. The drama presentation focuses on the lives of faithful men and women throughout history and the godly character evident in their lives. Church members also visit Apostlelot and share their testimonies of God’s faithfulness in their lives.
SUNDAY 10:30 TO NOON INFANT – AGE 4 Preschool teachings include missions moments, puppets, drama, and lesson themes that amplify what has been taught during the 9:00 A.M. hour.
KID’S CONNECTION 1 ROOM 416 A worship service for kindergarten and 1st graders that includes music, large group Bible teaching, mission moments, and small group activities.
KID’S CONNECTION 2 ROOM 423 A worship service for 2nd–4th graders that is designed to help prepare children to participate in “Big Church” with their parents. The service includes music, an offering, Bible teaching, and small group activities.
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2011 /20 12 W INTER MINISTRY GUIDE
• • • STS MINISTRY • • •
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. – Acts 1:8
SUNDAY MORNINGS
9TH – 12TH GRADES: AFTER THE PANCAKE BREAKFAST
(8:45 – 10:15 AM) STS Sunday morning activities start at 8:45 A.M. Every Sunday morning a pancake breakfast will be served for all 5th12th grade students. 5th & 6th grade students will be served breakfast in “The Loft” and 7th-12th grade students will be served in the STS Worship Center.
5TH – 6TH GRADES:
The high school students will remain in the gym for the worship service, large group teaching, and then small group discussion time and prayer.
NOTES
9:15 A.M.
*There will be NO STS on Sunday, December 25, due to the Christmas holiday.
A brief time of worship and teaching will begin for the 5th & 6th grade students before they go to their classrooms for Bible Study and Discipleship Groups.
*There will be NO STS on Sunday, January 1, due to the New Year’s holiday.
7TH – 8TH GRADES:
*There will be NO STS on Sunday, April 8, due to the Easter holiday.
AFTER THE PANCAKE BREAKFAST “THE LOFT” The 7th and 8th grade students will participate in worship in the gym before going to big group teaching and small group discussion.
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EQU IPPING THE SA INTS FOR TH E WORK OF THE MINISTRY.
SUNDAY EVENINGS
SPECIAL EVENTS & TRIPS
(5:00 – 6:30 P.M.) There are discipleship groups available for guys and girls 7th – 12th grade every Sunday night. For more information on locations, leaders, and topics of discussion please contact the STS office. High School Girls’ Discipleship Groups are divided by grade. If you have questions please contact Kristin Waites at kwaites@apostles.org for information on leaders and meeting locations. High School Guys’ Bible Study & Basketball meets in the STS Worship Center every week.
NOTES *Discipleship groups will not meet December 18, 25, January 1, 8, or 15.
(For more information on STS events and for online registration go to stsatlanta.org/events-trips)
STS + CHILDREN’S MINISTRY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SERVICE DECEMBER 18 9:00 A.M. THE GYM AT THE CHURCH OF THE APOSTLES
7TH – 12TH GRADE WINTER MISSIONS PROJECT JANUARY 13-16. For this special trip, we partner with local Atlanta ministries for three days of service projects to our city. More information and online registration will be available by the end of November.
12TH GRADE APOLOGETICS CLASS For six Sundays during the first hour in the winter/spring semester we offer a special class designed for Graduating Seniors. Topics include: Faith & Science, Reliability & Authority of the Bible, Common Objections to Christianity, and Comparing Christ to Founders of Other World Religions. For 2012, these classes will take place on the following Sundays: January 22, 29, February 5, 12, 19, and 26.
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS 5TH – 6TH GRADE “RUSH HOUR” 6:00 P.M. – 7:15 P.M. STS Join Mark for recreation, worship, teaching, and group discussion with adult leaders.
5TH – 12TH GRADE FATHER & SON RETREATS (“BASS & BLAST”) This retreat will be offered during both the private schools’ spring break (March 4-10, 2012) and public schools’ spring break (April 1-4, 2012). Young men of STS and your dads, come ready for outdoor fun including shooting, fishing, fellowship, and much more. More information and online registration will be available by the end of January.
7TH – 8TH GRADE FELLOWSHIP 6:15 P.M. – 7:15 P.M. Join Bill and Anna for fun games and practical teaching.
9TH – 12TH GRADE High School Girls’ Discipleship Group 6:15 P.M. – 7:15 P.M. THE PARLOR
7TH-12TH GRADE GIRLS’ SPRING RETREAT
Join Kristin and Jenny for Bible study and prayer.
MARCH 23 – 25 More information and online registration will be available by the end of January.
High School Guys’ Discipleship Group 6:15 P.M. – 7:15 P.M. THE COUCHES BY THE SANCTUARY.
5TH – 6TH GRADE SPRING RETREAT
Meets with Brian and Rand
APRIL 27 – 29
NOTES
More information and online registration will be available by early February.
*There will be NO STS Wednesday night activities December 21, or December 28th.
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2011 /20 12 WINTE R MINISTRY GUIDE
• • • YOUNG ADULTS • • •
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. – 2 Corinthians 5:21 to integrate the gospel into the daily lives of young adults in order that they might be transformed and become influencers in culture. As single adults it's easy to live isolated in a culture of productivity. CFC aims to provide community to give people balanced, whole lives.
WINTER ADULT BIBLE CLASS JANUARY–APRIL 9:00 A.M. (UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
COLLEGE SUNDAY SCHOOL GATHERING ZACK CARDEN ROOMS 612-613
ATLANTA MISSION
Breakfast, teaching, and community — living deeper in the truths of God.
Serving dinner the last Thursday of every month.
JANUARY 26, FEBRUARY 23, MARCH 29, AND APRIL 26
SONGS FOR SUPPER
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
JANUARY 29, MARCH 11, AND APRIL 22
REG AND LORI GRIFFIN ROOM 610 This class is designed to build community among singles in college and 20s and 30s, focusing on topics that are applicable to what it means to follow Jesus in personal, relational, and business life.
A dinner party with local Atlanta singer/songwriters. A night of food, fellowship, and music.
SUPER BOWL PARTY FEBRUARY 5TH
FREEDOM SUNDAY FEBRUARY 26TH
CENTER FOR FAITH AND CULTURE SUNDAYS, 7:00 P.M. THE COMMONS
STATIONS OF THE CROSS
The Center for Faith and Culture (CFC) is the young adult ministry (20s/30s) at The Church of The Apostles. We seek
GUATEMALA MISSION TRIP
APRIL 1ST MAY 6-12, 2012
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• • • YOUNG FAMILIES • • •
To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ – Ephesians 4:12-13 YOUNG FAMILIES COMMUNITY CLASS
HITCHED
DAVID WATSON | ROOM 623 Our class is dedicated to discipleship and community. We begin the morning with a conversation over a continental breakfast, which begins at 8:45. Our Bible study is a conversational exposition of the deep truths of Scripture. We believe that our ability to lead quality lives as spouses, parents, neighbors, and co-workers flows directly from the integrity we have in our relationship with Christ. Our gatherings are characterized by dialogue and rich community. The conversations and study that we offer are strategically used to fulfill our purpose, which is life-change for the glory of God and the building and equipping of the body of Christ.
YOUNG FAMILIES —THE JOURNEY ROBIN BURRUSS | ROOM 617 We are a young families class for married couples in their 30s and 40s with elementary children. Our Bible studies are topical studies with rich, authentic dialogue. Discussions are driven by Scripture, with emphasis placed on the truth of God’s Word experienced in the lives of those in the group. The class begins with the young families community breakfast at 8:45 and gathers for Bible study at 9:20.
Hitched is our monthly community gathering for young couples without children. Each meeting is designed to create and offer community and connection for young couples, with the added benefit of an environment based in mentoring. Each month we meet for dinner at a local restaurant and adjourn to a local home for conversation and coffee with our mentor couple of the month. The conversations cover a variety of topics and offer the chance for couples to learn from the experience of those who are chapters ahead of them in their story.
HATCHED Hatched is our monthly community gathering for young parents. The goal of Hatched is to create an opportunity for parents to draw encouragement and community from each other while enjoying the rare gift of adult conversation. Each month we invite a mentor couple in to talk about their journey and encourage us not only as parents, but also as married couples that happen to have children. We believe the best gift you can give your child is letting them see the love between their parents, and we are intentional in encouraging and equipping young parents to tend to their relationship first.
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2011 /20 12 W INTER MINISTRY GUIDE
• • • WOMEN’S MINISTRY • • •
Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. – Proverbs 8:10 -11
TUESDAY’S STUDIES
LIVING THE GOSPEL IN RELATIONSHIPS JANUARY 24 – MARCH 20 (9 WEEKS) TUESDAY MORNINGS – 9:30 A.M. -11:30 A.M.
MATTHEW: THE COMING OF THE KING Part II JANUARY 24 – MARCH 13 (8 WEEKS) TUESDAY EARLY MORNINGS, 6:45 A.M. – 7:30 A.M. The New Testament launches with an eye witness account of the events of Jesus’ life. In part II, we will explore the journey of Jesus through the area of Galilee, Judea, and the other side of the Jordan as He teaches to the people the ways of His Father. Matthew’s unique view interweaves a strong Jewish knowledge of the expected Messiah with an eye witness account of the actual Savior. Matthew establishes Jesus’ Messiahship by demonstrating His qualifications. Every detail of this study confirms Jesus’ deity and proves He is the Messiah of Israel and the Savior of the world. Leaders: Carolyn Caswell & Lori Harris Room: 246 Fee: $20 Child care NOT available
God’s love for us is so amazing, that even though we deserve death, through grace, He gave us the ultimate gift of His Son. Therefore, we are called to extend the same grace to others. The Christian life is life with Christ. We are saved by God and we are being sanctified by God. It really is possible that your life—your life—can be grace-filled, purposeful, and hopeful regardless of your circumstances. This nine-week study is presented in video by Tara Barthel, co-author of the book “Peacemaking Women.” Leader: Belinda Stone Rooms: 201-203 Fee: $20 ***Children MUST be pre-registered for child care by January 10 as space is limited. NO WALK-INS***
STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ACTS JANUARY 24 – APRIL 3 (11 WEEKS) TUESDAY MORNINGS, 9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. The continuation of the study of the Book of Acts from Chapters 20-28 will be the Winter/Spring study. It is open-ended
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EQ UIPPING THE SAINTS FOR TH E WORK OF THE MINISTRY. and any new class members will be welcomed as we observe Paul's evangelism of the known world and compare it to evangelism today, even in the same region. As we study the Book of Acts we also integrate the epistles Paul has written to those followers he has met and evangelized during the three missionary journeys, so we read the particular letters alongside the appropriate chapters of Acts. Acts is a full-orbed, unique, and rare book which gives us a view into the radically changed lives and cultures built on the spread of the Gospel in the first century. It would be easy to think that this story is over with the end of the book or even the early church. Even though Acts 28 ends with Paul still in prison, it extends far into the future, with us as inheritors of the privilege of evangelism for our Lord and Savior. Leader: Vicki Gillespie Room: 237 Fee: $20 Child care available, $35 per family ***Children MUST be pre-registered for child care by January 10 as space is limited. NO WALK-INS***
JANUARY 24 – MARCH 27 (10 WEEKS) TUESDAY EVENING, 6:30PM – 8:30PM This is an in-depth study on God's Covenant relationship with His people. We will use the Bible, prayer, class discussion, videos, and materials from Precept Ministries. This 9 week study begins in Genesis with God's promises of salvation and leads directly to our hearts through Jesus Christ. Leaders: Kathy Paparelli and Aurelia Clark Room: 250 Fee: $20 Child care NOT available
WEDNESDAY’S STUDIES ONE CLASS, TWO STUDIES, TWELVE (12) WEEKS A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ESTHER A Triumph over the Enemy: Spiritual Warfare
MOM TO MOM: GIVE THEM GRACE JANUARY 24 – APRIL 3 (11 WEEKS) TUESDAY MORNING, 9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Mom to Mom is an intergenerational discipling ministry intended to come alongside mothers desiring to grow in 1) their knowledge of God’s Word, 2) their ability to apply God’s Word to their lives, and 3) their ability to apply God’s Word in their parenting. Mothers who enroll in Mom to Mom will become part of a community of other moms facing similar challenges. We will be instructed in God’s Word and how it practically applies to raising children. Our plan for winter/spring 2012 is to study Give Them Grace, written by Elyse Fitzpatrick and her daughter, Jessica Thompson. What makes Christian parenting distinctly Christian? More pointedly, what would make your parenting different from that of a Mormon or moral atheist? When we witness to adults about our faith we're careful to tell them that they can't work their way into heaven, but is that the message we give our children? Do they know what the Gospel is? Have they been dazzled by the love of Jesus? Or do they think Christianity is about being "nice" and making Jesus smile? Have they heard the message of the glorious Gospel? Motherhood is not just a job, it is a calling, so we will study how we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our children by following the pattern Christ set with His own disciples. It is our fervent prayer that strength will be developed from our relationships with one another and our opportunity to go deep into God’s Word for the greatest encouragement of all! Leaders: Carol Swayze and Connie Musselman Rooms: 620-623 Fee: $20 Child care available, $35 per family ***Children MUST be pre-registered for child care by January 10 as space is limited. NO WALK-INS***
COVENANT – GOD’S ENDURING PROMISES
JANUARY 25 – MARCH 14 (8 WEEKS) WEDNESDAY EVENINGS, 7:30 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. Spiritual warfare is real! Through Christ we are led to triumph over the enemy every time. It will only be through the power of Christ and His wisdom that we avoid defeat. We’ll see that praising God is key. As we soak up truth, Satan loses the hope of deceiving us and keeping us bound by lies. Through this eight-week, verse-by-verse study of the book of Esther, we’ll allow God’s Word to build our faith in the mighty victory Christ offers.
A STUDY OF COLOSSIANS: An Eternal Mindset: Keeping An Eternal Focus MARCH 21 – APRIL 11 (4 WEEKS) WEDNESDAY EVENINGS, 7:30 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. How does this affect the Kingdom of God? Is it born of God? Where is my focus? These are some questions we’ll begin to filter our lives through as we grow in our understanding of having an eternal mindset. When we come to Christ, we die to seeking the temporary things of this world, and become spiritually alive to seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else. That’s true living! In this verse-byverse study of Colossians we will feed on the letter Paul wrote under inspiration of the Holy Spirit to help us hop on board with the plans God has for our lives—with all eyes on Him. Leader: Charlotte Travis Room: 246 Fee: $20 Child care not available
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Women’s Ministry continued
THURSDAY’S STUDIES
ONGOING MINISTRIES
FIVE ASPECTS OF WOMEN PART II
CLOSE KNIT FLOCK
JANUARY 26 – APRIL 26 (14 WEEKS) THURSDAY MORNING, 9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M
ANNE HAYES, LAY LEADER
Developing a theology of femininity based on five biblical aspects of womanhood: • Mistress of the Domain—Genesis 1:26-28 • Helper, Completer—Genesis 2:18-25 • Lifegiver—Genesis 3: 14-16 and 20 • Lady of Wisdom—Proverbs 9:10 and 31:30 • Glory of Man—1 Corinthians 11:3-16 and Ephesians 5:22-33
If you enjoy needlework and the fellowship of Christian women, you are invited to reach out to others with the love and encouragement of Christ. These ladies meet twice per month to knit baby hats for Cobb Pregnancy Center. They knit an average of 40 hats per month. No experience necessary. They will teach you! Contact Anne Hayes at awhayes12@hotmail.com for more information.
HEART-TO-HEART GROUP MENTORING This study is designed to edify and ground committed Christian women in the Bible’s teaching about gender. When mastered,this information serves as both a foundation and a framework which will guard women against error and free them to serve God more fully and more joyfully. Leader: Jeanine Dungan Room: Room 237 Fee: $25 Child care available, $35 per family ***Children MUST be pre-registered for child care by January 10 as space is limited. NO WALK-INS***
JANICE BLALOCK, LAY LEADER The goal of Heart-to-Heart is to teach women to be life givers by understanding their Biblical womanhood. The mentoring ministry helps women establish covenant relationships with godly women who will encourage and equip them to live for God’s glory. Each group has one to two spiritual mothers (mentors) and six to eight mentees. Women sign up for a time and location that are convenient. Groups meet monthly in the home of the mentors or at the church.
QFC – QUILTING FOR CHRIST JULEE JAMES, LAY LEADER
THE PROMISED ONE: SEEING JESUS IN GENESIS JANUARY 25 – MARCH 28 (10 WEEKS) THURSDAY MORNING, 9:30 A.M – 11:30 A.M After the Resurrection, when Jesus used Scripture to explain who He was and why He came, where did He start? In the Old Testament! And this is where the Promised One begins to look for Christ, finding Him in the people, promises, and patterns of the Old Testament scriptures. The class will make new discoveries of Jesus as seen in the shadows of the Old Testament, apply the gospel found in Genesis to issues such as shame, fear, and the desire for security and significance, and develop a longing for what is ahead when the world is once again made new. Leader: Lisa Robinson Room 229 Fee: $20 Child care available, $35 per family ***Children MUST be pre-registered for child care by January 10 as space is limited. NO WALK-INS***
Quilting for Christ meets the first three Thursdays of each month. No experience is necessary, as the experienced are blessed to teach others. Quilts are sewn for the Cobb County Pregnancy Center, orphanages, veterans, and the homeless. Please contact Julee James by e-mail at juleejames@earthlink.net.
SINGLE MOMS CONNIE MILLER, LAY LEADER SUNDAYS, 9:00A.M. – 10:00 A.M. | ROOM 250 Come join us to study God's truth about womanhood through the book "Lady In Waiting." It's not about finding the right man, but being the right woman. The class focuses on ten qualities of a godly woman that are found in the Book of Ruth, which will enhance your love relationship with your heavenly Bridegroom, the only one that can satisfy your heart's deepest longing. Starts January 8th through April 29th. We will not meet Easter Sunday.
WIDOWS NETWORK
SAVE THE DATE! MARCH 29, 2012 A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION FOR WOMEN OF ALL AGES
The Widows Network has helped many find solace in times of grief, as well as brought a sense of connection to other women. On six Sundays a year and at Christmas there are special luncheons held to honor the widows. There are other activities and service projects also. Please email Marion Sharp at memum@bellsouth.net.
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• • • MEN’S MINISTRY • • •
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. – Proverbs 27:17
MEN’S SMALL GROUPS
THE PATH
WEEKDAY MORNINGS
MEN’S MENTORING
Marriage, children, work, home, faith — the challenges abound. In today’s world it’s tough to be who God has called us to be. How do we follow Him and lead others? How do we balance the demands at work with the responsibilities at home? How do we love our wives like Christ loved the church? God did not intend for you to discover the answer to these and all the other important life questions by yourself. You were created to live in community with other men who are wrestling with the same issues, and who desire to live godly lives that count for God, but have not yet “put it all together.” Come join other men who meet here at the church on most weekday mornings to study Scripture and to apply it to real life. Share your life with other men who will help you see Scripture more clearly and who will help you sharpen your focus on Christ. To find out more about men’s small groups, contact Rhonda Saduddin at rsaduddin@apostles.org or 404-5643152.
According to many books on the subject, one of the biggest forms of discouragement for Appalachian Trail hikers is loneliness. Loneliness takes the joy of the journey’s experiences away. Loneliness robs hikers of encouragement they need to get over rough terrain and through difficult footing. Loneliness also makes rest a bit shallower and more evasive. The same is true in a man’s journey to Christlikeness. Many times we start out strong with the full intention of finishing well but quit when we don’t find needed guidance and encouragement. What is blocking you on your journey? Increased responsibilities? Lack of focus? Unfamiliarity with the terrain? Is your pace slowing or made with heavier steps? The Path connects men in a long-term, one-to-one mentoring relationship. We’ll connect you with a mentor who is committed to walk with you for as long as you want. Along the way you’ll pick up great biblical advice and make a friend. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Joe Ludwikowski at jludwikowski@apostles.org or 404591-2481.
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Men’s Ministry continued
NEXT GENERATION
• • • ONE • • •
SMALL GROUP MENTORING Small Group Mentoring is one of the men’s mentoring tracks at Apostles and is built around the following core elements: The key figure that drives the experience is a middle-aged mentor who is a person of a mature spiritual stature, a leader in the business world, and a man passionate about investing his life into younger men who are hungry to grow. He meets with a small group of six to eight younger men for an evening monthly meeting which lasts approximately three hours. The small group comes together to discuss the content of an assigned book that is relevant to the growth and development of the young men. The group interacts around the application and integration of the content of the assigned book into the lives of each participant. The books cover topics like life purpose, fathering, priority setting, marriage excellence, spiritual warfare, decisionmaking, and many more. Other meaningful exercises and disciplines, as well as a weekend retreat, are woven together into the year-long experience, all of which make the time spent practical, integrative, and relevant to the nurture and development of young men as godly leaders. The men who have gone through this have found it to be life-impacting on themselves, their marriages, their families, and their professional lives. So far, not one man out of the hundreds who have completed the program here and at other churches has gone through a divorce. Let James Saxon know of your interest at jsaxon@apostles.org or 404-591-1981. Bring a check for $200.00 to the first meeting with your signed covenant.
For the 2011-12 ApostlesLife emphasis, we have put together a strategy called “One Style – One Verse - One Guest.” This is a fresh approach that is designed to mobilize everyone to become effectively involved in reaching out to lost people. “One Style” refers to an assessment tool that we have discovered which helps each person identify his or her own unique style of reaching out to lost people. “One Verse” is a simple tool that equips a person to share their faith using just one verse, John 3:16, the most well known verse in the Bible. Finally, “One Guest” refers to the challenge we are giving each member to try and bring at least one lost guest to hear one of the evangelistic sermons Dr. Youssef will be preaching on each of the last four Sundays in January of 2012. This past fall, over 1,000 of our members attended an orientation workshop and now we are getting ready for the “One Guest” phase of the strategy. During December our church body is encouraged to begin fervent prayer for God’s blessing on our outreach efforts. In January, every church member is encouraged to bring one lost guest to one of the four evangelistic sermons being preached in January. In February, we will be conducting a “Christianity Explored” course for all the guests who are interested in exploring Christianity further. Your prayers and participation are greatly appreciated.
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• • • SMALL GROUPS • • •
They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. – Acts 2:42 Come find a place where you can connect with others in meaningful ways. Our Small Groups are a great environment to develop authentic, caring relationships while discussing how God’s truth intersects life. They help us in our journey of becoming more like Christ . . . together. Small Groups usually meet in homes every week or every other week, featuring lively, interactive discussions on God’s Word and how we live it out. Some groups also meet at the church. Members of Small Groups will share life with all of its joys and challenges. They’ll pray for one another and receive encouragement. Together, your Small Group will help you live out your faith while impacting others. Contact Rhonda Saddudin at 404-564-3152 or rsaddudin@apostles.org
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS: • Atlanta • Buckhead • Chamblee • Decatur • Dunwoody • Mableton • Marietta • Midtown • Sandy Springs • Smyrna • Stockbridge • Villa Rica • Vinings • West Cobb • Woodstock • New locations to be added
TYPES OF GROUPS: • Mixed Groups • Men • Women • Young Adult Singles • Young Families
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• • • ADULT BIBLE CLASSES • • •
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15
SUNDAY CLASSES START AT 9:00 A.M. FIRST LOOK
BUILDERS
JOHN HORTON | ROOM 201
AL ELMORE | ROOM 616
This is a four-week class designed to orient newcomers to the life and ministry of The Church of The Apostles. The class covers an overview of the history, mission, vision, ministries, and facilities of our church. The First Look class is a requirement for church membership. Please call Melanie Poole at 404-564-6673 if you have any questions. Choose from the following start dates: January 8, February 5, March 4 and April 29.
Builders is a community of believers committed to providing an atmosphere where God can build faith and fruit in each of our lives. Because of this commitment we pray, study God’s Word, and share honestly concerning the ways God is working in our lives. We are an open fellowship where anyone can experience authentic community and make new friends. We will be studying the Book of Romans. Please come and be challenged to go deeper in your walk with Christ.
BREAKTHROUGH LIVING OLD TESTAMENT HEROES
KNOWING AND DOING GOD’S WILL
BRUCE COOK/PAT MACMILLAN | ROOM 237
Does God call us today? If God is calling, are we listening? How do we recognize God’s voice and respond in obedience? What do we do, and how do we do it? Can I really walk with the Lord in twenty-first century America? Do I have to do it in all aspects of my life—work, marriage, family, friends, etc.? Who can help me? What is a council of advisors? How did others do it? This study addresses these and many other questions and is all about practical application in today’s world.
BOBBY MITCHELL, SR. | ROOM 239
The Old Testament offers unique insight into the lives of men and women who struggle with significant challenges, yet learn what it means to trust God and experience a deeper relationship with Him in the middle of adversity. We will study these “heroes” and discover life-changing principles we can apply in our own lives to help us in our daily walk with God. We welcome all who want to join us in growing in their knowledge of the Word and in fellowship with one another.
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EQ UIPPING THE SAINTS FOR TH E WORK OF THE MINISTRY. LIVING AT PEACE
WHAT THE BIBLE REALLY SAYS
BRYAN ALISON | ROOM 607
STAN CARDER | ROOM 243
This course, originally named “Peacemakers,” has been revamped to use real-life scenarios to effectively apply the principles of biblical peacemaking. It will equip you to use biblical principles in everyday life relationships, those from the home, church, social life, and workplace. Applying these principles will allow you to bring glory to God and make a difference for Christ in those places where you have been planted. You will not only grow in your relationship with Christ, but you will learn how to serve others in difficult situations. Come join us and explore what God wants to do in and through your relationships.
This course is a summary of our Christian beliefs, and it is formatted to enable us to make a logical defense of our faith. We will be examining God’s Word and learning how we are to apply these truths to those with whom we interact, whether at work, in our neighborhoods, or in the communities where we are serving. Through teaching, interaction, and small group discussions, we will solidify our trust in the foundational truths of God’s Word. This class is highly recommended for all believers who desire to make an impact upon the culture in which we live.
MAJORING ON THE MINORS LEE HOLSTON | ROOM 229 A
MONDAY NIGHT INSTITUTE
We’ll seek to grow in our knowledge of the consistent character and ways of our God and His revelation of His Messiah through studying the writings of the minor prophets.
STARTS AT 7:00 P.M. FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY JANUARY 30 STAN CARDER/DAVID THORNE | ROOM 229 A-C
PARENTS OF TEENAGERS TOM WILKES | ROOM 615 We are comprised of parents of teenagers or former teens, some of them now in college and some beginning their careers. Each year we focus on a different book of the Bible and use a study guide to aid us. We use our time on Sunday mornings to pray for each other and unpack an assigned chapter of the Bible. Our goal is to deepen our relationship with Christ and walk as role models for our teenagers.
SEVEN MILES WITH JESUS J. C. POOLE | ROOM 229 B-C Imagine the scene: Christ has been crucified. Two discouraged disciples are leaving Jerusalem and walking seven miles to Emmaus. The resurrected Jesus joins them, but they don’t recognize Him. In the ensuing journey, He explains to them what the Old Testament Scriptures say about the Messiah. In this study, we will be using the Old Testament Scriptures and the Gospels to follow Jesus along those seven miles. May we also say what the two disciples said at the end of the trip, “Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?”
THE BOOK OF JOSHUA MONTE JOHNSON | ROOM 611 This year we will be studying the Book of Joshua. The study will be verse-by-verse. We will learn about the need to “stand firm,” to “daily seek God,” and answer questions like: Why did Joshua send the two spies to Jericho? Our goal each week will be to identify the truths and principles for daily life within God’s Word, as revealed and lived out by and through Joshua and the children of Israel. We will discuss how we can apply these truths and principles in our day-to-day lives.
Seven out of 10 Americans are living paycheck-to-paycheck. Did you know that statistic goes up to 8 out of 10 families in affluent neighborhoods? That is why we are offering Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University class starting Monday, January 30. This is a practical and fun opportunity to learn about money. Each weekly session starts with Dave Ramsey teaching on video and is followed by a small group discussion. If you are one of the few who isn’t struggling, you will still benefit from this powerful material. You will learn how to apply biblical principles in the management of all the resources God has given you. The cost is $100.00 per couple or individual, which covers 13 weeks of teaching, resource materials, and a lifetime membership to FPU. For more information, call Stan Carder at 404-564-3146, email him at scarder@apostles.org, or register online at www.apostles.org.
WHAT THE BIBLE REALLY SAYS STAN CARDER | ROOM 237 A-D This course is a summary of our Christian beliefs, and it is formatted to enable us to make a logical defense of our faith. We will be examining God’s Word and learning how we are to apply these truths to those with whom we interact, whether at work, in our neighborhoods, or in the communities where we are serving. Through teaching, interaction, and small group discussions, we will solidify our trust in the foundational truths of God’s Word. This class is highly recommended for all believers who desire to make an impact upon the culture in which we live.
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2011 /20 12 W INTER MINISTRY GUIDE
• • • CONGREGATIONAL CARE • • •
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves – II Cor. 4:7 WINTER 2012 OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH Congregational Care is continually seeking to provide opportunities that will enable all members to live their lives more effectively. Therefore, we are privileged to offer the following ministries for this fall. To register and pay online, please go to the church’s website at www.apostles.org for more detailed information, or contact Gwen Wiley at 404564-3159, or email gwiley@apostles.org.
ary 22 in Room 620 is recommended. The cost is $55 for couples or $45 for singles. For more information, please visit www.apostles.org/congregationalcare/.
CROSSCURRENT TUESDAYS, JANUARY 31 – MARCH 20 6:30 P.M. - 9:00 P.M STS A 8-week course that brings hope for healing of heart wounds or sexual addictions that block intimacy with God and our most significant relationship. Course book $10 optional.
CROWN FINANCIAL MINISTRIES SUNDAY MORNINGS, FEBRUARY 5 – APRIL 22 8:30 A.M. - 10:15 A.M. ROOMS 242, 244 A 10-week course which teaches biblical stewardship of finances. A student orientation class and luncheon on Janu-
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EQ UIPPING THE SAINTS FOR TH E WORK OF THE MINISTRY. DIVORCECARE TUESDAY EVENINGS, JANUARY 10 – APRIL 3 7:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. ROOM 614 A 13-week course which covers many different aspects of one’s life as it is impacted by either separation or divorce. The cost is $15.
GRIEFSHARE TUESDAY EVENINGS, JANUARY 10 – APRIL 3 7:00 P.M - 9:00 P.M ROOM 613 A 13-week course and support group designed to assist those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, whether recently or sometime in the past. The cost is $15.
LIVINGWATERS TUESDAY EVENINGS, OCTOBER 4 – APRIL 24, 2012 6:15 P.M. - 9:30 P.M STS A 28-week spiritual journey that includes worship, teaching, testimony, and small group prayer in a safe and confidential environment for those dealing with deep hurt and sinful, addictive habits. The cost of the series is $500.
ACCEPTING YOURSELF AS GOD DOES TAUGHT BY MICKY LAND LPC TUESDAY MORNING, JANUARY 31 – APRIL 3 10:00 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. ROOM 244 Take a 10-week inner journey with the Lord to discover how much God loves you. Explore how your spiritual growth is impacted either positively or negatively by what you think about yourself. The group will be lead in a small group format. The course book is $15 and is optional. Space is limited.
to God and make a difference for Christ in those places where you have been planted. You will not only grow in your relationship with Christ, you will learn how to serve others in difficult situations. Come join us and explore what God wants to do in and through your relationships.
EVENTS
ONPATH A biblically-based life and work assessment course designed to provoke thinking and foster strategic renewal, personally and professionally. The cost of the course is $70 to cover the purchase of a workbook and required personality profiles. By appointment only.
LIVING AT PEACE (ORIGINALLY NAMED "PEACEMAKERS") SUNDAY MORNINGS, SEPTEMBER 11 – MAY 20, 2012 9:00 A.M. - 10:15 A.M. ROOM 607 The class has been revamped to use real-life scenarios to effectively apply the principles of biblical peacemaking. It will equip you to use biblical principles in everyday life relationships, those from the home, church, social life, and workplace. Applying these principles will allow you to bring glory
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP SEMINAR SATURDAY, APRIL 14 8:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. ROOM 237 Personal care-giving to those needing long term assistance can be mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausting. The maze of paperwork and appointments can be overwhelming. This support group will focus on coming alongside of those who are involved in dealing with family medical/health situations or caring for aging parents. Through education and encouragement, this one-day seminar will help caregivers navigate through the personal, legal, financial, residential, and spiritual issues they will confront as they minister to others in these difficult circumstances. The cost is $25 per person or couple and includes continental breakfast, lunch, and resource materials.
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201 1/2 012 WINTE R MINISTRY GUIDE
• • • VOLUNTEER MINISTRY • • •
As each has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. – I Peter 4:10
CONGREGATIONAL CARE Our purpose is to extend the reach of the pastor to care for all members as Christ would care for His own, both by ministering to them and teaching them to minister to one another. GRACETOUCH MEALS shares the grace and love of our Lord by providing a meal and a personal contact to those in our midst in need of refreshment, care, and encouragement. You may: • Cook meals to be taken to families who have a need. • Cook meals to bring to church to be put in the freezer for emergency help. • Deliver meals to the families. MILITARY OUTREACH provides opportunities for us to participate in service projects with various organizations to assist and support military individuals and their families as they faithfully serve our country.
PRIMETIMERS is a service-oriented fellowship for those over 50 serving the body of Christ in a variety of ways, including visiting the homebound. They also sponsor luncheons focused on vital issues for seniors. If interested, please contact the Congregational Care office. STEPHEN MINISTERS are lay persons in our congregation who are trained to provide confidential care for those who are facing a difficult situation. For information about Stephen Ministry, call our referral coordinators, Sylvia Mosley at 770987-1929 or Jim Kranzusch at 770-565-1650. USHERS serve once a month during the 9:00 or 10:30 services. This includes passing out the bulletin, helping people get seated, and taking up the offering. For more information contact Gwen Wiley at gwiley@apostles.org
FIRST IMPRESSIONS MINISTRY PRAYER MINISTRY involves the expansion of God’s Kingdom through intercession for others. Intercessors may come to the church during the week and pray for the requests that have been received, or may be received via email at home.
PARKING GREETERS bridge people from the parking lot into the building in a warm and welcoming way.
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EQ UIPPING THE SAINTS FOR TH E WORK OF THE MINISTRY.
FRONT DOOR GREETERS warmly greet all who enter the church building and are prepared to answer any directional questions. THE WELCOME CENTER is the information “nerve center” of the church. Greeters are knowledgeable and always prepared to answer informational and directional questions. SANCTUARY GREETERS warmly greet visitors as they enter the various sections of the sanctuary prior to the service, during the congregational greeting in the service, and as they leave the service and during the congregational greeting in the service. As visitors leave the service, greeters invite and welcome them to the visitor reception. VISITOR RECEPTION GREETERS – Immediately following the 10:30 A.M. worship these greeters welcome visitors in the visitor reception. They are trained to focus on the specific needs and questions of the individual visitors and assist in making them feel comfortable. The visitor reception greeter also provides a visitor the opportunity to meet church staff. FAREWELL GREETERS greet and pray for those who are exiting the church with the goal of making sure their visit to our church ends well. For more information contact Jan Blakeslee at jblakeslee@apostles.org>
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY Our vision is to reach children for Christ and to equip them to surpass us in the knowledge of God, in faith, in righteousness, in fruitfulness, and in evangelization. Early and consistent teaching in a child’s formative years has an enduring effect. (Proverbs 22:6) SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS teach every Sunday from 9:00 – 10:15, September – May. They are off during the summer. The summer teachers work June – August every Sunday from 9:00 – 10:15. SHEPHERDS – These volunteers work with the infants through four-year-olds on a monthly rotation with the same group of children each month. • Shepherds for infants through walkers help welcome the children to class and do activities and songs that focus on God. • Shepherds for toddlers through four-year-olds teach Bible lessons along with activities and crafts and take their class to worship in the children’s chapels. SPECIAL STONES – Our ministry on Sunday mornings to children with special needs is offered from 9:00 to noon. Children are taught Bible lessons from the Show Me Jesus curriculum in a loving environment of their own. The class shepherd also leads the children in planned activities and music. Volunteers serve on a rotating schedule. CHURCHWIDE – These volunteers work on a monthly or bimonthly basis, helping shepherds and caregivers in each room. MUSIC AND DRAMA – People are needed who can play a musical instrument, sing, or enjoy drama or puppets. These talents and gifts will be used in the Wee Worship and Kingdom Kids worship times and Elementary Assembly on Sunday morning. This is done on a rotating schedule. WEDNESDAY NIGHT – Infants through four-year olds have teachers and helpers that teach a lesson with crafts and songs while their parents are in Hour of Power. RUNNING CHURCH – 1st through 4th graders participat in Bible lessons, Bible memory, and activities that focus on God. TUESDAY AND THURSDAY MORNINGS – There are children’s classes during the women’s Bible studies. Teachers and helpers are needed during this time.
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2011 /20 12 W INTER MINISTRY GUIDE KIDS’ CONNECTION 1 AND 2 – Children’s church experiences which includes praise, worship, giving, Bible teaching, and small group activities for children in grades K – 4. Our prayer is that children will learn what it means to bow down and worship before their heavenly Father and that they would “graduate” from the Children’s Ministry ready to actively participate in the weekly gathering of the Body. GENERAL VOLUNTEERS can help outside of Sunday mornings with administration, organization, and preparation for classes or special events. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL is a one-week commitment, usually in June, with availability for training and preparation as needed for each area of service. *Parents are asked to work once a month in their children’s classrooms. For more information contact Kelly Skelly at kskelly@apostles.org
portunities would be the following: hosting and decorating a table for the annual Christmas Tea; hosting a table for Outreach and Fellowship Events; to help decorate for the Widows Luncheons; coordinate refreshments for Bible studies or other events. QUILTING FOR CHRIST - Uses donated fabric to make quilts and covers to provide comfort for those in need or crisis in the Atlanta area and throughout the world. All are welcome to join us, no matter their sewing ability. We meet on the first and third Thursday of each month at the church. Contact: Julee James at juleejames@earthlink.net. THE CLOSE-KNIT FLOCK – A fellowship of Christian women dedicated to using their needlework skills to the glory of God. Projects include knitting baby caps for the Cobb Pregnancy Center and Kindred Spirit. Skill level of needleworkers does not matter--our women will teach newcomers. Contact Anne Hayes at awhayes12@hotmail.com for meeting dates and times. For more information contact Carola Wangeci at cwangeci@apostles.org
STS STS exists to reach, equip, and mobilize students for their ministry. (Acts 1:8) SUNDAY MORNING: Set-up, cooking, clean-up, prayer, greetings, teaching, and discussion group leaders. SUNDAY EVENING: Discipleship group leaders are needed for 7th – 12th grade students. WEDNESDAY EVENING: 5th – 8th grade students: recreation & group discussion leaders are needed. 9th – 12th grade students: small group Bible study leaders are needed. OTHER OPPORTUNITIES: Mentoring and discipling students, students helping with retreats, missions trips & service projects.
GENERAL VOLUNTEERS RECEPTIONIST DESK – During the week, cover the receptionist desk at lunchtime for one hour on a rotating basis. WEDNESDAY NIGHT DINNER – Help serve on the main serving line, the children’s table, or desserts. This can be on a rotating schedule or whenever each volunteer is available. SPECIAL EVENTS – Help with special events such as working at the information or sign-up tables in the foyer, or working at book and CD tables on Sunday mornings when we have special guests. ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT – Provide general administrative help during the week as needed. For more information contact Melanie Poole at mpoole@apostles.org
For more information contact Jenny Sessoms at jsessoms@apostles.org
MISSIONS
WOMEN’S MINISTRY EVENTS/RETREATS/CONFERENCE TEAM – Be involved in the planning and hands-on experience of the larger events. This would include prayer, planning, publicity, registration, hospitality, set up and break down for conferences or retreats. HOSPITALITY TEAM – Welcome women as a greeter for any of the Women’s events and/or Bible studies. Other op-
There are year-round opportunities for volunteers to do God’s work by getting personally involved with ministries supported by Apostles. Anyone interested in finding out moreabout these ministries should talk to the membership coordinator. For more information contact Melanie Poole at mpoole@apostles.org
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VISIT
WWW.APOSTLES.ORG
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You can find information about all of our Ministries, upcoming events, ways to get involved and more. Also,
visit apostles.org/media/ to view All of our pAst sermons And more.
How to Contact Us Phone: 404.842.0200 Fax: 404.266.0656 E-mail: apostles@apostles.org Web: www.apostles.org
Worship Sunday: The Gathering of the Body: 9:00 A.M. & 10:30 A.M. Sunday Evening: 5:30 P.M. Wednesday Hour of Power: 6:15 P.M.
Discipleship Sunday: 9:00 A.M.
Leading The Way with Dr. Michael Youssef 1781 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30309 Phone: 404.841.0100 Order: 1.800.337.5323 Web: www.leadingtheway.org