THE CHURCH OF THE APOSTLES
MINISTRY GUIDE Winter 2022
Belong to Jesus.
Belong Together.
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WELCOME Dear Friend, elcome to The Church of The Apostles! We are honored that you have visited us today, and it is our prayer that you have been blessed by uniting with us in worship. As you may have already sensed, this church is unique in its devotion to true, biblical worship. Back 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:
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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.
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OUR FOUNDING RECTOR ichael A. Youssef was born in Egypt in 1948. Dr. Youssef surrendered his life to the lordship of Jesus Christ at the age of 16. He was one of eight children with a family heritage rooted in the ancient New Testament church founded by the Apostle Mark.
n the pages that follow, you can learn more about specific ministries of our church, but most importantly, remember this: you are loved, and you belong at Apostles.
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Again, on behalf of the leadership and members of this church, welcome to Apostles.
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Dr. Youssef immigrated to Australia as a young man where he studied at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was ordained as a minister, and married his wife, Elizabeth. He then earned a master’s degree in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary in California and a doctorate in social anthropology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. He became an American citizen in 1984. Dr. Youssef teaches with a fresh perspective as a result of his background and innate comprehension of biblical culture. He has a rich understanding of the Bible, its original languages, and biblical lands. Because of this, his messages are sprinkled with descriptive explanations of many of Scripture’s subtleties and nuances.
Table of Contents 04
Ten Year Vision
06
Who We Are
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Our Mission
08 Worship
Midweek Gathering
Wednesday Night Dinner
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Children’s Ministry
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Student to Student (STS)
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College Fellowship
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20s & 30s Ministry
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Small Groups
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Women’s Ministry
21
Singles Life
22
Men’s Ministry
23
Life Imprint Dinner
24
Adult Bible Classes
28
Congregational Care
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Our Ten Year Vision At the beginning of 2021, Dr. Youssef shared a Ten-Year Vision to pass on the whole truth to the next generation. We encourage you to prayerfully join us during this new season of ministry.
For more information about how you can get connected, please visit apostles.org.
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Ten Ways You Can Support The TenYear Vision
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Pray Join our Midweek Prayer Gathering and pray for the next generation.
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For more information about how you can get connected, please visit apostles.org.
Volunteer Volunteer in the Children’s Ministry or Student Ministry.
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It is the goal of family ministries to unite the agebased ministries at The Church of The Apostles to strengthen our families and assist us with growing in grace.
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Mentor
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Mentor or be a mentee in the Young Families community on Sunday.
Small Groups
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Join a small group in your area.
Encourage Encourage your children to be involved in our age-based ministries. Through faith-nurturing programs and ministries here at Apostles, we seek to walk alongside parents as they train children.
Develop cross-generational relationships through Men’s Ministry and Women’s Ministry.
Give Continue to resource the church through giving faithfully. Everything in heaven and on earth is the Lord’s, and He invites us to participate in His work by being faithful stewards of our resources. One way that we can do this is by contributing financially to the work of the church.
Our Small Groups are a great environment to develop authentic, caring relationships while discussing how God’s truth intersects life.
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Develop
God did not intend for you to address life’s problems by yourself; the wisdom offered by mature believers from other generations can help further your own faith journey.
By studying God’s Word in a sharing and participatory environment, individuals lay a faith-based foundation for developing and strengthening families.
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Worship together regularly at the 9:00 or 10:30 a.m. service. As our founding Rector has already explained in his welcome note, Sunday morning worship at Apostles is an empowering time of praise, prayer, and proclamation of God’s Word.
As biblical Christians, we realize that prayer is an essential part of the spiritual life of the church and of individuals.
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Worship
Invite Invite individuals and families to worship or join our church events. We are actively committed to reaching out to those who do not know Christ. Members at Apostles have seen friends and family come to Christ through annual outreach events.
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Discipleship Pursue discipleship through Adult Bible Classes or Bible studies. The goal of our discipleship ministries is to bring people together under the Word of God so that they can grow in their Christian faith and carry the Gospel to others.
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WHO WE ARE Our deeply held beliefs and highest priorities are the fundamental forces that drive our actions. he Church of The Apostles has never been just another church. God has guided and sustained this church through a vision that was made clear to the Rector even before the church began. We conclude from this that God has something unique in mind for this church body, and we operate our ministry accordingly.
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So as you attend Apostles, what can you expect to experience in the life and ministry of this church?
There are at least five realities which drive the ministry of Apostles: 1 Lifting up Jesus at all times in everything we do. We are here to lift up Jesus at all times in everything we do. The Bible says that Jesus came to the earth that He might have preeminence in all things and that includes The Church of The Apostles.
2 Searching for opportunities & ways to make the Gospel clear to every person. We are constantly searching for opportunities and ways to make God’s awesome message of salvation clear to as many people as possible. We want to ensure that people have the chance to hear the message and see the heart of Jesus in a true light that is compelling and clear.
3 Striving to present every person complete in Christ. We also strive to present every person complete in Christ. The highest purpose of life on earth is to make joyful progress in our spiritual formation, which is becoming like Jesus. Therefore, all of our ministry activity here at The Church of The Apostles converges on this focal point.
4 Conducting all ministry with excellence to the glory of God. Apostles is a church that is busy with Holy Spirit-directed ministry activity that is executed with excellence. We firmly believe that if we cannot do ministry with excellence to the glory of God, we simply don’t do it.
5 Speaking the truth in love without compromise. Finally, we speak the truth in love without compromise. Through the Bible, God reveals Himself as the fountain of truth and love. We declare His truth in love without compromise or apology.
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OUR MISSION ur mission is accomplished by unconditionally surrendering to and seeking the leadership of God the Father, through Jesus, His only begotten Son, and by the power of the Holy Spirit. We know that the greatest impact we as a church can make is to reach out to others. God has called us as a church to act as a lighthouse for those truly seeking the truth of the Gospel, not only in the city of Atlanta, but also throughout the nation and to the farthest corners of the world. Our members reach out to others locally and around the world through continued involvement and support of missions and ministries.
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REACHING THE L ST AND EQUIPPING THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF MINISTRY.
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SUNDAYS J
oin us in person or online at 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. for our worship services. We also offer Adult Bible Classes and other opportunities on Sundays.
9:00 - 10:15 a.m.
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
In-Person or Online Opportunities
In-Person or Online Opportunities
Join our Adult Bible Classes online or in person. For more information on our offerings, visit apostles.org.
Join us online at apostles.org/live or in person. For more information on our offerings, visit apostles.org.
During this hour, we have Bible Classes (Sunday School), and we also have an early worship service in the Chapel. The Bible classes are for grounding, learning, connecting, and training in the wisdom and ways of the Lord. These classes center around Jesus, the living Word of God, and the Scripture, the written Word of God.
During this hour, we have our worship service in the main Sanctuary. This is a time for celebration and communion, praise and prayer, evangelism and proclamation. Our heart’s desire is to lift up the resurrected Jesus in all of His saving power and glory.
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WEDNESDAY NIGHTS
Wednesday Night Dinner 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Midweek Gathering 6:15 p.m. We offer a family dinner at 5:00 p.m. Please RSVP at apostles.org to join us for dinner. Beginning at 6:15 p.m., we gather for a time of worship and an extended time of prayer.
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Children’s Ministry ur mission in Children’s Ministry is to intentionally reach out to children with the whole counsel of God – that they might know Him and love Him. Although children do not have the vocabulary to express it, they have hungry souls that yearn after God. So, we desire that every experience a child has in our church includes God-centered programs and activities. We want to nurture faith in each child and believe that spiritual foundations can be laid even in the youngest child in our nursery.
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First graders through fourth graders will have programs during the 9:00 a.m. hour. Childcare and Bible stories are available for Infants through kindergarteners during the 10:30 a.m. worship service.
Sunday Mornings @ 9:00 a.m. Class + Check-In
Description
Infants - Young Toddlers
Loving nursery care.
Check-in at Kiosk
Twos - Threes Check-in at Kiosk
Preschool Fours Kindergarteners Check-in at Kiosk
For more detailed information about our ministry, classes, and past virtual teachings, please visit our website at apostles.org/children.
First Graders - Fourth Graders Check-in on the 5th floor
Classroom teaching and activities from the Big Picture Story Bible and our Apostles curriculum. These children will have a large-group lesson from our Apostles curriculum in the Preschool Chapel followed by activities in a smaller group. Elementary children will begin in small group Bible study the first part of the hour. We are delighted to return to “Apostlelot” (dramatization of heroes of the faith) at the end of the hour approximately once a month.
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Sunday Mornings @ 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Class + Check-In
Description
Infants - Young Toddlers
Loving nursery care.
Check-in at Kiosk
Twos - Threes Check-in at Kiosk
Preschool Fours Kindergarteners
Classroom teaching and activities from the Big Picture Story Bible.
Preschoolers will have a Bible lesson and activities on the ABC’s (attributes) of God.
Check-in at Kiosk
First Graders - Fourth Graders Check-in at Kiosk
First Graders - Fourth Graders attend worship with their families. Resources are available in the foyer for notetaking and learning to worship.
Wednesdays @ 6:00 p.m. Class + Check-In
Description
Infants - Young Toddlers
Loving nursery care.
Our ministry is driven by the hope and vision that our children will have one pure and holy passion to know and follow hard after God.
Check-in at Preschool Nursery Desk
Twos - Kindergarteners
Stories and games.
Check-in at Preschool Nursery Desk
First Graders - Fourth Graders
Running Church and fun lessons that stretch our faith.
Check-in on the 4th floor and pickup in the STS Gym Atrium.
Stay up to date, and stay tuned for information on VBS 2022: June 13-17
Website: apostles.org/children Phone: 404-842-0200 Facebook: The Church of The Apostles Children’s Ministry Instagram: @apostleschildrens apostles.org || 11 11 apostles.org
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STUDENT TO STUDENT MINISTRY STS or Student to Student is the ministry for 5th - 12th grade students at Apostles. We are passionate about middle and high school students loving God with their whole heart, reaching others with their whole lives, and making disciples with the whole gospel.
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Our desire is to minister to the hearts of students and see them transformed by Christ. We long to see them equipped to live as followers of Christ, as lights in the darkness, and to reach their own generation with the life-giving truth of the Gospel.
Sunday Mornings 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. Our vision for STS Sunday mornings is to be a place where students develop and mature in their faith. We desire to see students know Jesus and make Him known and to be equipped to live for Him at home, on campus, and in everyday life. On Sunday mornings, this is typically accomplished through small group discussions.
Midweek Gathering Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Through our Midweek Bible studies, our hope is that students will be equipped to love God more. Every week, during Midweek Gathering, large group and small group Bible studies are offered for every grade level.
Special Events and Trips For information on upcoming gatherings (movie nights, grill-outs, etc.) and trips (retreats, conferences, mission and service opportunities, etc.), check out stsatlanta.org/events.
Want to stay up to date on what’s going on in the Student Ministry? Visit our website at stsatlanta.org or call us at 404-591-2470. You can follow us on Instagram (STSAtlanta) and Youtube (STSAtlanta). You can also sign up to receive text message updates: text “STS” to 24587.
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COLLEGE FELLOWSHIP We desire to be a place for college students to find encouragement, joy, rest, and strength in Jesus. postles’ College Fellowship is a ministry for college and college-aged students. We believe that the deepest possible joy and satisfaction in life can be found exclusively in knowing, loving, and trusting Jesus Christ. We desire to be a place for college students to find encouragement, joy, rest, and strength in Jesus. Therefore, we want to find creative ways to embrace the full counsel of Scripture, as well as to be a community that provides an opportunity for discipleship. We meet on Thursday evenings at 7:00 p.m. for Bible study and dinner in the Commons.
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For more information and scheduling changes, please contact Mark Johnston at mjohnston@apostles.org or Leah Colvin at lcolvin@apostles.org.
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2Os & 3Os MINISTRY he 20s and 30s Ministry at Apostles exists to encourage young adults to intentionally connect with one another each week and to explore the things in life that really matter. Within the ministry, there are lots of opportunities to gather with peers, develop meaningful relationships, and grow spiritually.
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Thursday Evenings 7:00 p.m. | The Commons In-Person or Online Our primary, weekly gatherings are on Thursday nights at The Church of The Apostles. It is a relaxed time of fellowship, worship, and a message from God’s Word. There are also a variety of social activities that take place throughout the week, as well as yearly retreats.
Our goal is that the gospel of Jesus Christ will transform our people for the glory of God and the good of those around us.
For more information, please visit apostles.org/20s30s or contact us at 20s30s@apostles.org.
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SMALL GROUPS ur Small Groups are a great environment to develop authentic relationships while discussing how God’s truth intersects life. They help us in our journey of becoming more like Christ… together.
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Groups feature lively, interactive discussions about God’s Word and practical ways to live it out. In a Small Group, you’ll share life’s challenges and joys. You’ll pray for one another and receive encouragement. Your Small Group will help you live out your faith while impacting others…together.
Groups Mixed Groups Men’s Women’s Young Families
Locations Alpharetta Atlanta Brookhaven Buckhead Cherokee County College Park Cumming Dallas Douglas County East Cobb Grant Park Gwinnett County Henry County Johns Creek Kennesaw Lilburn
Lithonia Mableton Marietta McDonough Milton Paulding County Peachtree Corners Powder Springs Roswell Sandy Springs Serenbe Smyrna Tucker Villa Rica Vinings West Cobb
COME FIND A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN CONNECT WITH GOD AND OTHERS IN DEEPER WAYS. For more information, visit apostles.org/ smallgroups or contact T.J. Diamond at tjdiamond@apostles.org.
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WOMEN’S MINISTRY After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” Revelation 7:9-10 Every Heart Changed By The Gospel Of Jesus Christ. For more information, visit apostles.org/women or contact Elise Wilkes at ewilkes@apostles.org.
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EQUIPPING THROUGH COMMUNITY
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ll women are invited to join us for several unique offerings as we link arms with one another to explore the Word of God.
Winter/Spring 2021-2022 Bible Studies Sunday Women’s Community
Class
Info
Leader(s)
Description
The Gospel of Luke
Sundays
Tonja Brice
January 9 – May 22
Laurie Graffo
9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
Sherrie Rodriguez
The Gospel of Luke gives us a beautiful portrait of our compassionate Savior, Jesus Christ. The book covers the life of Jesus and all He began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to Heaven. Luke’s portrayal of Jesus reveals the love and mercy of Christ to all people - no matter their station in life. Join us as we explore key insights that can be shared with everyone we encounter.
Room 607-610
Women’s Class: Boundaries
Sundays
Ashley D. Wille, AACC
January 9 – February 27 12:15 – 2:00 p.m. Room 244
Come discover how boundaries can help you create space for healthy relationships with God, self, and others. Boundaries define who we are and who we are not. They impact all areas of our lives – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Boundaries help us discover God’s will for our lives. The class cost includes the book. Bring a lunch and join us!
Cost: $15
Weekday Community Classes Class
Info
Leader(s)
Description
1&2 Thessalonians: Living in Light of Christ’s Return
Tuesday
Lori Harris
Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians contains some of the most important New Testament passages about eschatology, eschatology, the culmination of all things. First and Second Thessalonians set forth the Christian view of history, showing that history is linear rather than circular and that history will come to a planned, grand finale, consisting of the Second Coming of Christ, the resurrection, the judgment, and the kingdom. During His life and ministry, Christ assured the apostles that He would return for His people one day. How should this future event affect our lives today?
Vicki Gillespie
The Book of Isaiah carries within it one of the greatest mysteries of the coming Messiah – that He would be both the Suffering Servant and the victorious King. The revelation of this dual mission has created misunderstanding, confusion, and controversy throughout history. In order to read Isaiah’s prophecies correctly, we will let Scripture interpret Scripture by looking to their fulfillment in the words and life of the Messiah. As we study Isaiah 39-49, we will study and compare Isaiah’s prophecies and their specific fulfillments in the New Testament accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry and His future coming as the victorious King in Revelation.
January 11 – March 22 6:45 – 7:45 a.m. Room 242 Cost: $15 In-Person or Online
A Study of Isaiah
Tuesday January 11 – March 22 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Room 237 Cost: $15
May God grant us to see new and rich blessings as we seek to understand the Father’s magnificent plan throughout history for our redemption. Come join us!
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Weekday Community Classes...continued Class
Info
Leader(s)
Description
Romans, Part 2 Precept Upon Precept
Tuesdays
Anne Hayes
Free from the guilt and power of sin, but what about the flesh? Discover how justification by faith relates to day-by-day living through the Holy Spirit’s power – the amazing process of sanctification. There are no chapters in all the Word of God that are more enlightening or more liberating than Romans 6, 7, and 8 — chapters that explain what it means to be in Christ.
January 11 – April 12 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Room 229BC Cost: $20
Romans Part 1, Lessons 7 through 14, will be completed by February 1. A class luncheon will be held on February 8. Romans Part 2 begins February 15, with a new workbook and ends April 12. Class registration will be for Romans Part 2 study materials.
A Study of Exodus
Tuesdays
Charlotte Travis
Our group focus will shift to glorifying God, not only for being One who rescues us, but for being the One who rescues us for more intimacy. Lord, may it be! There will be teaching, discussion, and optional homework as we fellowship in the Lord together. We want our hearts transformed as we grow in the knowledge of God, to grow in intimacy with Him resulting in more fruitful living for His glory and our joy.
Denise Nyberg
First Samuel reads as a biography of three strategic figures – Samuel, Saul, and David. It covers a pivotal point of about 115 years in Israel’s history, revealing man’s failure alongside God’s faithfulness. Corrupt religious leaders confused the church in a careless, complacent, chaotic culture…must history repeat itself? Join us to see what God can do in and through those who are fully committed to Him. Minor daily homework, group discussion, and short lecture format with frequent fellowship over lunch.
Meg Estes
Paul wrote the letters of 1 & 2 Thessalonians to the church he founded in Thessalonica. His purpose in writing was to thank them for their work of faith, their labor of love, and their continued hope in the Lord Jesus Christ . . . and His coming again.
January 11 – March 22 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. The Commons Cost: $15
1 Samuel, Part 2 Joy of Living Bible Studies
Thursdays January 13 – March 24 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Room 237 Cost: $15 In-Person or Online
A Study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians and Titus
Thursdays January 13 – April 28 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Similarly, Paul’s letter to Titus, a young pastor in Crete, is filled with personal affirmation, counsel, and guidance on how to prepare church leaders for effective evangelism.
Room 201 Cost $15 In-Person
Mom2Mom
These letters of instruction are as inspirational for us today as they were for these first-century Christ-followers. Come join us!
Thursdays
Connie
January 20 – March 24
Musselman
10:20 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The Commons Cost: $15
Our Mom to Mom theme for 2021-2022 is a study on spiritual warfare in the believer’s life along with parenting principles from Acts 17, where we learn so much about God and life. We are looking at victory in Christ: learning what it means to stand firm in Him, taking back the enemy’s ground where believers live — in the home, in the workplace, and especially in the privacy of the Christian life where besetting sins, Satanic lies, and spiritual attack have taken their toll. May our Living God bring life and immortality to light as we study His Word on behalf of the next generation!
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Class
Info
Leader(s)
Description
Women’s Class: Ending The War with Myself
Tuesdays
Ashley D. Wille, AACC
Take an upper journey with the Lord to learn all He has done for you. Take an inner journey with the Lord to discover true love in Christ. We will discuss the chapters and homework questions completed prior to each class. Micky Land’s book, Ending the War with Myself, will be included in the registration fee. Bring a lunch and join us!
Ashley D. Wille, AACC
If you want inspiring, practical teaching and the support of your sisters in Christ to grow into spiritual maturity, please join us in this safe and confidential group. Together, we will grow in authenticity with God, ourselves, and others.
Julie Van Gorp
Our heart as a prayer group is to pray for revival in the church, our nation, and our world. We use the very headlines and daily news that otherwise might overwhelm and depress us as a launching pad for our prayers; we apply God’s Word to those situations and intercede that God’s will be done in and through them. Women of any age and life stage, whether members of COTA or from outside of the church, who have a desire for God’s glory and His will to be done, are welcome to join us.
January 11 – March 15 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Room 244 Cost: $15
Women’s Support Group: Open Hearts
Thursdays
Pray for the Nations: Prayer Group
Tuesdays
January 13 – March 3 Room 244
Ongoing 12:15 – 2:00 p.m. Room 242
Winter Pop Ups Class
Info
Leader(s)
Description
Purim: “For Such A Time As This…”
Saturday
Jeanine Dungan
Purim reminds us of God’s providence and sovereignty over all human lives and over our lives specifically. We are all the beneficiaries of God’s providence. As God guides all circumstances for His glory, we as humans are blessed to get a glimpse of what God does through people—including ourselves. “...that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation... and that these days of Purim should never fall into disuse...” Esther 9:28
March 12 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Room 242 Cost: $5 In-Person
Christian Writers Workshop
Saturday April 23 9:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Cost: $5 In-Person
Enjoy a rich morning of fellowship and brunch as the Feast of Purim unfolds. Casey Hawley
“Writing to Reach Church Members and Visitors” is a course to make your writing more influential when writing in a church setting. Whether you are a volunteer or staff member, you can make your writing more effective. Casey Hawley will share ten proven strategies to strengthen you as a communicator.
Be clearer; avoid misunderstandings • Improve turnaround time and response rate • Use your computer to critique documents • Write concisely but completely • Speak to the reader’s needs • Increase positive influence in e-mails • Enhance visual layout • Effectively announce events, Bible studies, etc. • Learn a formula for writing engaging openings • Use the 12 most influential words in the English language • Write great internal emails • Use active not passive language for results • Write from the reader’s viewpoint • Persuade others to attend, give, or read on • Write to busy decision-makers with short attention spans
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Lunch and Learn Series Class
Info
Description
Heated Conversations
Sunday, January 9 – February 6
How do we bring warmth and truth to a culture grown cold? Enjoy lunch, fellowship, and rich interaction as we learn how to have meaningful conversations with people who have different world views. Topics will include:
12:00 – 2:00 p.m. No Cost Lunch Provided Registration Required
Critical Race Theory • Social Justice • Sexuality • Identity Politics • Progressive Christianity • Love Your Neighbor: Conversational Tactics “...but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect...” 1 Peter 3:15
Winter Retreat Class
Info
Leader(s)
Description
Standing Firm in the Faith: Staycation Retreat
Friday – Saturday, February 25 – 26
Alisa Childers
Hear Alisa Childers, Apologist, Speaker, and Author, as she relates her journey over the last several years as she wrestled with questions that really strike at the heart of what it means to be a Biblical or historic Christian.
Cost: $80
Renew the mind with teaching that will equip us to understand cultural flashpoints, defend our faith, and love God and our neighbor well. Refresh the body with a feast of delicious meals and time away from the overwhelming pressures of life. Restore the soul with fellowship, friendships, rich times of prayer, activities designed to relax and build community, and more!
GROW
SERVE
SHARE
Community Groups are around the Atlanta area, designed to build authentic community.
Women’s Ministry provides numerous opportunities to serve our church, our community, and those beyond the walls of our city.
Visit apostles.org/women for more information on upcoming events and gatherings.
Woman to Woman mentoring from older women can provide younger women encouragement, guidance, and support. Single Hearts for Christ is a community for single women age 40 and over. Widow’s Network provides encouragement for Apostles widows through monthly luncheons.
Visit apostles.org/women for details.
Facebook: @apostleswomensministry Instagram & Twitter: @apostleswomen For more information, contact Apostles Women at 404-842-0200 or bcooper@apostles.org.
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SINGLES LIFE t is the desire of The Church of The Apostles Singles Ministry to provide an authentic place within the larger church for single adults to build supportive friendships and grow in the gospel of grace. We strive to see those within our Singles community connect, grow, and serve together in the body of Christ.
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Half the population of Atlanta is single, and The Church of the Apostles has been called to reach this community with the gospel. Often the church can feel like a place only for those who are married or building their families, but the church is diverse with so many in different stages of life. Whether you’re divorced, widowed, never been married, a single parent, or busy with your career, we have a place for you to grow spiritually within an authentic, grace-centered community. We hope that every Single person at Apostles will have their need for community met through our Singles ministry. Class
Info
Description
S.A.L.T. Single Adults Living In Truth (40+)
Mike Glass
Whether you’re new to Apostles or just looking to connect with our Singles community, this gathering is for you. Join with other mid-singles ages 40+ to build friendships and grow in grace. We begin the morning with round table interaction along with some practical biblical teaching to help everyone understand how to live out the Gospel in our work, family, and friendships.
THRIVE A Mid-Singles Community (35+)
Brad Ost
Single Hearts for Christ Single, divorced, and widowed women (40+)
Jan Blakeslee
Sundays 9:00 a.m. In-Person Only
Sundays 9:00 a.m.
THRIVE is a mid-singles class working through the Bible and sharing our lives. We would love to have you come along with us as we seek to grow toward the Lord and each other in a warm and welcoming setting. Come and “thrive” in our community.
In-Person or Online
For up-to-date information, please contact Jan Blakeslee at jblakeslee@apostles.org.
Visit apostles.org/women for upcoming events and offerings.
Single Hearts for Christ is a women’s fellowship that brings single Christian women together to enjoy, enrich, and support one another. What better place to be than with a group where people know you, pray for you, and encourage you in your faith. As we see it, every single, divorced, and widowed woman has different needs, worries, hopes, and dreams; each one certainly offers a plethora of experiences, perspectives, challenges, and gifts. In Christ, we have all that we need for life and ministry. If you are 40 years old or beyond and looking to connect with other Christian women, we have an open invitation for you. Our goal is to provide a secure place for you to grow in Christ and establish friendships with other single women at Apostles.
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MEN’S MINISTRY For online and in-person class offerings, please visit our website at apostles.org/men.
“God did not intend for you to discover the answer to important life questions by yourself. You were created to live in community with other men who are wrestling with the same issues.”
Class
Info
Description
The Hub
Tuesday Mornings
As men, we all want to make a difference at home, at work, and in all areas of our life. The Hub is designed for men of all ages to be equipped, encouraged, and empowered for real change. Join us for challenging teaching followed by interactive discussion around the tables. You’ll leave different than when you came.
7:00 – 8:00 a.m. (6:45 a.m. Breakfast) The Commons
Men’s Small Groups
Weekday Mornings
In today’s world, it’s tough to be who God has called us to be. How do we balance the demands at work with responsibilities at home? How do we love our wives like Christ loves the Church? God did not intend for you to discover these answers by yourself, but to journey with other men who wrestle with the same issues. In our men’s small groups we dive into Scripture, apply it to real life, and sharpen our focus on Christ.
The Path: Men’s Mentoring
For more information, contact Mike Slaughter at mslaughter@apostles.org or 404-591-1971.
The Path facilitates mentoring relationships between men who desire to have accountability for their lives. Our primary source of guidance comes from the Bible, which is applied to our lives by the Holy Spirit. As a reference for our mentors, we use The Heart of Mentoring by Dave Stoddard and To the Heart and Back by Anson Ramsey.
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LIFE IMPRINT DINNERS Life Imprint Dinners are an extension of the Outreach Ministry of The Church of The Apostles in Atlanta. The purpose is to attract the unchurched and the de-churched and to feature a speaker who has a life story that is so extraordinary that it leaves a deep, unforgettable impression on the souls of those who hear it and frames the gospel of Jesus Christ in a powerful, compelling way.
2022 LIFE IMPRINT DINNER Friday, January 28 | 6:30 p.m. | The Commons Our speaker for the 2022 Life Imprint Dinner is former baseball slugger Darryl Strawberry. Darryl Strawberry is described as a legend by many who have been dazzled by the dynamics of his game and the power he possessed at the plate. During his career, he earned the legendary nicknames and phrases of one of the most feared homerun hitters in baseball - Straw’s Sweet Swing, Strawberry’s Field Forever, and The Legendary Straw Man! However, throughout the eighties and nineties, Strawberry faced many challenges off the field, including tax evasion, drug abuse, solicitation, suspensions, stints in rehab, cancer, and time in prison. Today, as a redeemed sinner, Darryl’s purpose and passion is serving the Lord Jesus Christ by speaking a message of hope and helping others transform their lives through the power of the gospel. “I was once very lost and tormented but now I am found and free in Christ Jesus. I want everyone to experience the saving and transforming power of Jesus Christ.” Online registration is now available for you and your guests that are truly seekers at apostles.org/events or contact Jan Blakeslee at jblakeslee@apostles.org or 404-591-1988.
Darryl Strawberry Former Major League Baseball Great, Rookie of the Year, 8 Time All-Star, 4 World Series Titles.
*Our definition of a seeker: someone who is unclear about what it means to have a personal relationship with God, uncertain how to go about it, or unconvinced that such a relationship even exists.
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ADULT BIBLE CLASSES Starts January 9 (unless indicated otherwise) | 9:00 - 10:15 a.m. REGISTRATION REQUIRED for the in-person or online class. Once the in-person class registration is full, please register to join the online class. If you would like to get connected in fellowship with other believers to study the Word of God and pray, please register for a class. For more information, please contact Rhonda Saduddin at rsaduddin@apostles.org.
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Class
Leader + Room
Description
First Look Class
Mike Slaughter
Our First Look class is designed to help you better understand the mission of The Church of The Apostles. We want you to know who we are, why we are here, and where we are going in the years ahead. For those who are considering membership or simply want to learn more about our church, we want you to know what it means to belong to our family.
The Commons In-Person Only
Our leadership team looks forward to meeting you and sharing how the Lord is using the ministry to make a difference throughout Atlanta and beyond. Please see the website for details on upcoming classes. For information, contact Holly Copeland at hcopeland@apostles.org or 404-564-6688.
Breakthrough Living – The Prison Epistles: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon
Family Connection
James Pool Room 242 In-Person or Online
Jeff Falkowski Room 620-623 In-Person Only
Family Foundations
John Whitney Room 612 In-Person or Online
How to Study the Bible – Living by the Book
Glenn Rivera
Jesus Christ The Promised One of God
Roger Hill
Room 613 In-Person or Online
Room 237 A,B,C,D In-Person or Online
Breakthrough Living is an extraordinary group of maturing Christians who love the Lord, love His Word, and love each other. We continue to study the New Testament in the order it was likely written. We will deep dive into the Prison Epistles: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.
Life can be fast, hectic, and sometimes overwhelming. In such environments, it is absolutely essential to intentionally nurture your soul for the good of your home. To this end, plan on meeting up with the Family Connection class to strengthen the core of your life, marriage, and family. We will explore the rock-solid resources in God’s Word together while sharing with each other in community. Here, we will look at the Scripture to process how living out the Gospel impacts the quality of our daily lives. Come gather with others and learn how to develop healthy God-centered rhythms so that we can live the way Christ intends. Visit this class. Make it your weekly habit. You will be glad you did. Family Foundations is comprised largely of married couples with children of all ages. The group strives to build a faith-based foundation for developing and strengthening our families and church family bonds by studying God’s Word in a sharing and participatory environment. Learn to study the Bible, using the principles of Observation (What do I see?), Interpretation (What does it mean?), and Application (What am I to do, and how does it work?). Expect great interaction and discussion, participation in some fun exercises, and hear practical teaching from studies constructed in this manner. All professionals think, express, and desire different outcomes from one another. An attorney thinks differently from an accountant who uses a different vocabulary than a preacher or a medical doctor. Luke, identified by Paul as the “beloved physician,” is no different. Often Luke uses medical terms to reveal Jesus to us. To borrow from C.S. Lewis, either Jesus is a lunatic, a liar, or He is Lord, the Promised One of God as the Perfect Man and the Perfect Savior, through whom salvation is available to both Jew and Gentile alike. Although we are studying it verse by verse, each lesson is a “stand-alone” lesson that does not require previous attendance.
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Class
Leader + Room
Description
Jonah and Hosea Mercy of the Crucified and Risen Christ
Baker Smith and Huck Whitener
The mercy of God, His withholding of the punishment we deserve, is the theme of Jonah and Hosea. Jesus repeatedly quoted Hosea: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice,” adding that He “came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” As an expression of repentance, Jonah is traditionally read on the Jewish Day of Atonement, including Jonah’s words, “Salvation belongs to the Lord!” Historically, the Day of Atonement culminated in a sacrifice at the temple in Jerusalem followed by the high priest’s statement, “It is finished!” Jesus prophesied His sacrificial death and resurrection saying, “Just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” Jesus also stated that the Gentiles to whom Jonah had preached and who had repented, the people of Nineveh, would join the other righteous believers, both Jews and Gentiles, who “rise at the judgment.” Please join us for this exciting study as you strengthen your confidence and assurance of victory in Christ.
Men’s Group – Man’s Identity in God
Bruce Cerbone
Room 234 In-Person or Online
Room 203 In-Person Only
Our biggest challenge as men is understanding who we are and our purpose. When we begin to understand that our identity and purpose are directly tied to God, we are free to be who He has designed us to be. King David was “a man after God’s own heart,” yet he was incredibly flawed just like us. In his journey with the Lord, David knew exactly who he was and his purpose. David gave his heart to God, and God in turn made him the greatest king of Israel and the head of the family line of the Messiah, Jesus. Join us as we study the life of David and how God can use us as He did David, despite our flaws, to find our purpose and identity in Him. We will be using David: A Man of Passion and Destiny by Chuck Swindoll as a resource and guide. Come join us as we take biblical principles and implement them into our daily lives.
Psalms From The Top Down
Lee Holston Room 243
In this class, we will look at the Father’s character and His ways as revealed through the Psalms.
In-Person or Online
Romans: The Gospel of God and How to Live in Christ
Tom Taylor
S.A.L.T. (Single Adults Living in Truth 40 and above)
Mike Glass
The Book of Revelation
Andrew Bradley
Room 244
We will study the Book of Romans together with a focus on the Gospel of God and what it means to live in Christ in our everyday lives
In-Person or Online
Room 617 In-Person Only
Room 201-202 In-Person or Online
Whether you’re new to Apostles or just looking to connect with our Singles community, this gathering is for you. Join with other mid-singles, ages 40 and above, to build friendships and grow in grace. As a single adult, it can be hard to both find and build meaningful community within the church. Each week we seek to build up our community of singles as we look at key passages in the Bible to help us practically live out our faith together. Additionally, we have round table interaction along with practical biblical teaching to help everyone understand how to live out the gospel in our work, family, and friendships. To many people, the book of Revelation is mysterious and confusing. Join us for an in-depth study of the book of Revelation. We will begin with the background of the book followed by an interactive verse-by-verse study. Much is revealed about Christ in the book of Revelation. We will examine topics like Christ’s message to the Seven Churches of Asia, The Judgment, Tribulation, Second Coming, the Millennium, and the Eternal State. In studying Revelation, we desire not only to increase our understanding of who Christ is but learn to increase our hope in Him.
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Class
Leader + Room
Description
The Epistle of 2 Corinthians
Monte Johnson
We will continue our study of the “Life and Letters of Paul,” following the timeline as outlined in the Book of Acts. At this point in our study, Paul is on his third missionary journey, has just left Ephesus, and is traveling in and around Macedonia. Here, he writes the second letter to the Church of Corinth, which is where we will continue this semester.
Room 611 In-Person or Online
Join us as we discover the truths Paul writes to the Church at Corinth relevant to both the first Century and for all who have followed. In addition to the truths and related applications, we will see the vulnerability of Paul as he shares transparently with the believers and friends in Corinth!
The Epistle of Colossians
Jimmy Goolsby Room 229 A,B,C
This class will be an in-depth, verse-by-verse study of Paul’s epistle that focuses on the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ our Lord.
In-Person or Online
Thrive: A MidSingles Community 35 and above
Brad Ost
Was America Established As A Christian Nation, And Does It Remain One Today?
Bobby Mitchell, Sr. In-Person or Online
What is the role of revivals and awakenings? Will God bless us again, or is this the end times? Join us for this challenging study!
Women’s Group – The Gospel of Luke
Tonja Brice
The Gospel of Luke gives us a beautiful portrait of our compassionate Savior, Jesus Christ. The book covers the life of Jesus and all He began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven. Luke’s portrayal of Jesus reveals the love and mercy of Christ to all people – no matter their station in life. Join us as we explore key insights that can be shared with everyone we encounter.
Room 615 In-Person or Online
Room 239
Laurie Graffo Sherrie Rodriguez Room 607-610
Thrive is a mid-singles class working through the Bible and sharing our lives in community. We’d love to have you come along with us as we seek to grow toward the Lord and each other in a warm and welcoming setting. Come and thrive in our community. This class is based on the application of God’s Word to today’s culture. What are the challenges and the call on our lives?
In-Person Only
ABC POP-UPS
Look for upcoming class opportunities to engage the culture better. apostles.org/abc
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CONGREGATIONAL CARE MINISTRY We seek to fulfill this ministry by showing compassion to those in need through classes and pastoral care to help those dealing with difficult life situations such as divorce, grief, financial difficulties, and more.
Opportunities for Growth The Congregational Care ministry offers areas of support for the person searching for hope and healing. Together, we invest in the sowing and harvesting of good seeds through biblical teaching and works of compassion. We hope that you will find your place to humbly co-labor with us in service to Jesus Christ, His church, and the community in which we live.
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Ministry
Learn More
Description
Compassion Ministry
Rand Eberhard
The pastoral staff is available to provide support, encouragement, and direction. Our Stephen Ministry provides trained “Care Givers” who are available after each worship service for prayer and encouragement. Our Grace Touch ministry is available for those in need of a meal when unexpected circumstances arise. Also, our Prayer Ministry is available to intercede and seek the Lord on behalf of the needs you are facing.
Director of Congregational Care 404-591-2475 reberhard@apostles.org
Stephen Ministry
stephenministry@apostles.org
Stephen Ministry is a unique, one-to-one, Christ-centered caring ministry. Trained lay ministers in our congregation are available to meet, pray, and walk alongside those who are experiencing struggles, hurts, or overwhelming circumstances, within a supportive, caring relationship. Stephen Ministers have completed training to best support people and meet regularly with individuals to provide confidential, personalized care. This ministry is designed to journey with you as you begin to experience hope and healing in Christ.
Christian Guidance
Individual Guidance Appointments
If you are in a place where your life has become unmanageable, consider speaking with one of our pastoral counselors. We offer Christian guidance, premarital and marital counseling, as well as skillful advice as you search out your calling. Personal appointments are available upon request by contacting our office.
Men and Women, Couples Brian Maxwell 404-591-1966 | bmaxwell@ apostles.org
Jeanine Dungan 404-842-0200 | jdungan@ apostles.org
Bruce Cerbone 404-842-0200 | bcerbone@ apostles.org
Volunteer Ministry GraceTouch Meals
Share 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. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to help cook meals to be taken to families who have a need or help deliver meals to families.
Prayer Ministry
Involves the expansion of God’s Kingdom through intercession for others. Prayer Intercessors may come to the church during the week and pray for requests that have been received, or they may receive requests via email at home. For more information, contact Brian Maxwell at bmaxwell@apostles.org. Submit Prayer Requests at: apostles.org/care/intake | prayer@apostles.org | 404-591-2480.
Ushers
If you are a member of the church, we invite you to serve! Volunteers are needed once a month during the 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. service. This includes passing out the bulletin, helping people get seated, assisting with communion, and helping with the offering. For more information, please contact James Saxon at jsaxon@apostles.org. apostles.org | 29
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If life has become unmanageable and you feel alone or overwhelmed, let me invite you to consider engaging the heart of the Father in the context of His church. We tend to struggle and suffer alone, but the Lord desires that we be in relationship with Him, ourselves, and others. We would like to help you grow spiritually, emotionally, relationally, and then offer support and teaching specific to Hope and Healing with the end goal of connecting you deeper into the life of the church as a “worker” of the gospel of peace. Our church mission is to Reach, Equip, and Work. We welcome you to join us in the process as we all attempt to live into the fullness of God’s plan for our lives.
Classes | Opportunity for spritual growth and development • Register online at www.apostles.org/care. Class
Info
Description
CrossCurrent: Beyond Brokenness
Tuesdays
8 Weeks
January 18 – March 8
A safe, confidential, Christ-centered, no judgement zone, for those seeking truth and grace in their relationship struggles, sexual integrity issues, or past hurts. Each evening includes worship, teaching, testimony, and samegender small groups. Come and experience the hope and joy of overcoming strongholds and addictions, healing relationships, and renewing intimacy with God. The registration fee of $10 includes the course book.
6:30 – 9:00 p.m. Cost: $10
Women’s Class: Ending The War with Myself
Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. January 11 – March 15 Room 244
Women’s Class: Boundaries
Sundays 12:15 – 2:00 p.m. January 9 – February 27 Room 244
Women’s Support Group: Open Hearts
Thursdays 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. January 13 – March 3 Room 244
Take an upper journey with the Lord to learn all He has done for you. Take an inner journey with the Lord to discover true love in Christ. Facilitated by Ashley D. Wille, AACC, this interactive class will discuss the chapters and homework questions completed prior to each class. Micky Land’s book, Ending the War with Myself, will be included in the registration fee of $15. Come discover how boundaries can help you create space for healthy relationships with God, self, and others. Boundaries define who we are and who we are not. They impact all areas of our lives – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Boundaries help us discover God’s will for our lives. This study is facilitated by Ashley D. Wille, AACC. The class cost is $15 and includes the book. Bring a lunch and join us! If you want inspiring, practical teaching and the support of your sisters in Christ to grow into spiritual maturity, please join us in this safe and confidential group. Together, we will grow in authenticity with God, ourselves, and others. Ashley D. Wille, AACC, leads this group.
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Class
Info
Description
GriefShare
Tuesdays
Grieving the loss of a loved one, whether recently or in the past, is one of the most emotionally wrenching experiences one can go through. If one tries to deal with the varying waves of emotion on their own, the grief experience becomes even more distressing. GriefShare is a video and small group discussion course designed to assist, comfort and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time. The cost is $20.
6:00 – 8:00 p.m. January 11 – April 5 Room 201 Cost: $20
DivorceCare
Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. January 11 – April 5 Room 231 Cost: $20
Most people will tell you that separation and divorce are the most painful and stressful experiences they’ve ever faced. It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues you’ve never faced before. DivorceCare is a 13-week course designed to assist, comfort and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time. Class will meet on Tuesday evenings with video, teaching, and small group discussion. The cost is $20.
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HOW TO CONTACT US The Church of The Apostles 3585 Northside Parkway Atlanta, GA 30327 P: 404.842.0200 E: apostles@apostles.org W: apostles.org
WORSHIP SUNDAY The Gathering of the Body: 9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. WEDNESDAY Midweek Dinner: 5:00 p.m. Midweek Prayer: 6:15 p.m.
DISCIPLESHIP Sunday: 9:00 a.m.
LEADING THE WAY with Dr. Michael Youssef PO Box 20100 | Atlanta, GA 30325 P: 404.841.0100 Order: 1.800.337.5323 W: LTW.org
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