Summer 2012 Ministry Guide

2012 SUMMER MINISTRY GUIDE

Welcome

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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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.

Prayer and intercession as an expression of our utter dependence on our heavenly Father through Jesus Christ in all things.

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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EQUIPPING THE SAINTS FOR THE 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)

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 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 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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2012 SUMMER MINISTRY GUIDE

Children’s Ministry And Jesus took the children in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them

– Mark 10:16

OUR VISION FOR THE CHILDREN’S MINISTRY at Apostles 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 commitment to world evangelization. Our mission is to declare the whole counsel of God in all ministries to and among children. We take ministry to children seriously and earnestly desire to see them become mighty men and women of faith. It is our desire that they will put their trust in Christ at an early age.

Our team of children’s workers joins with parents in nurturing the faith of their children.

We aim to accomplish this in a safe, God-centered, Christ-exalting environment, and trust that every time they come to this place, they will be reminded that they are a part of a bigger kingdom and in the presence of the King of Kings.

We have special programs for children on Sunday mornings, on Wednesday evenings with “Running Church,” and on Tuesdays and Thursdays during women's ministry activities. Special events throughout the year are wonderful opportunities for families to work, serve, play, and worship together.

For more information about the children’s ministry, please visit apostles.org/children.

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SPECIAL EVENTS VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL June 11-15 9:00 A.M. to Noon Pray for our Backyard Bible Clubs, which will meet during June and July.

All children will be promoted to new classes on Sunday, August 26.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY & STS FAMILY KICKOFF August 19 9:00 A.M. STS Gym

EQUIPPING THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY

SUNDAY 9:00 – 10:15 A.M.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT “RUNNING CHURCH”

INFANT – AGE 2

6:00 – 7:15 P.M.

Loving Nursery Care and Bible Stories 3rd Floor Visitor Check-in at Kiosk

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. Infant – Rising Kindergarten 3rd Floor Check-in Rising 1st – Rising 5th 4th Floor Check-in

AGE 2-4 (RISING KINDERGARTEN) 3rd Floor Visitor Check-in at Kiosk Creation Exploration is the theme for preschoolers this summer! In June, our little ones will learn to look for GOD’s handiwork in the wonders of their world around them! Our children will slowly and deliberately hear the account of Creation from Genesis 1. Later in the summer, our chidren will be taught the Covenant of Life and GOD’s perfect provision for salvation.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT CALENDAR

SPECIAL STONES SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN ROOM 309

May 30

Dads Running Church

June 6

Dads Running Church

June 13

Dads Running Church

June 20

The King Without a Shadow

June 27

The Priest with Dirty Clothes

ELEMENTARY-AGE SUMMER SUNDAY

July 4

1st grade through 5th grade Offered at 9:00 A.M. only.

Room 411 The Bible’s most important message is understandable at a very young age. In some ways, it’s like a puzzle. If the pieces are fitted together properly, piece by piece, it makes sense. To learn any new concept, the most effective way is to build from the foundation up. Careful attention needs to be given to laying the foundations for every new concept.

Our summer lessons will be taught from The Lamb by John Cross. This book presents the Bible’s core message without watering it down and or avoiding issues. Children currently in K-1st will meet in Room 411 and children currently in 2nd – 4th in Room 420. (Promotion to the next grade takes place at the end of August)

July 11

The Prince’s Poison Cup

July 18

The Lightlings

July 25

The Donkey Who Carried a King

August 1

The Barber Who Wanted To Pray

August 8

That's When I Talk to God

RISING 3RD & 5TH GRADERS Room 420 9:00 A.M. only

KID’S CONNECTION 1 AND 2 Rising 1st – 5th grade “Children’s Church” will resume on August 26.

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No Running Church

August 15

Dads Running Church

August 22

Dads Running Church

August 29

Dads Running Church

2012 SUMMER 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

Our passion is to equip students to live the Gospel in their homes, schools, and neighborhoods and to share the love of Christ wherever they go. STS is an exciting place for students to grow in their relationships with God and with each other, develop a lifestyle of passionate worship of the Lord, and discover a life of ministry to others. We have a variety of weekly activities, from small groups to large-group worship services, and from in-depth equipping classes to service projects.

For more information about STS, please visit apostles.org/sts.

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SUNDAY MORNINGS

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS

9:00 – 10:15 A.M. Starting on Sunday, May 27 *There will not be a pancake breakfast served during the summer.

* There will be NO STS Wednesday night activities Wednesday, July 4th.

5TH – 6TH GRADE “RUSH HOUR”

“The Den” Large group teaching time

6:15 – 7:15 P.M. In STS Join Mark for recreation, worship, teaching, and group discussion with adult leaders.

7TH – 12TH GRADERS

7TH – 8TH GRADE FELLOWSHIP

5TH – 6TH GRADERS

“The Loft” Large group teaching time

6:15 – 7:15 P.M. Join Bill and Anna for fun games and practical teaching.

9TH – 12TH GRADE

Our annual Fall Launch service with Children’s Ministry will be Sunday, August 19 in the STS Gym at 9:00 AM.

6:15 – 7:15 P.M. The Parlor

Children’s Ministry and STS classes will promote on Sunday, August 26.

High School Girls’ Discipleship Group Join Kristin and Jenny for Bible study and prayer.

SUNDAY EVENINGS

High School Guys’ Discipleship Group Join Brian and Leslie from 6:15 – 7:15 P.M. in Brian’s office.

5:00 – 6:30 P.M. The last Sunday evening Discipleship group for this school year is May 13. Discipleship groups will meet again starting Sunday, August 26 at 5:00.

SPECIAL EVENTS & TRIPS: (For more information on STS events and for online registration go to stsatlanta.org/events-trips)

9TH-12TH GRADE HOUSEBOAT RETREAT Monday, July 9 – Wednesday, July 11 We’re renting houseboats on Lake Lanier! Rising 9th graders through 2012 graduates: join us for an awesome few days of fellowship, fun, and learning on the lake!

7TH-8TH GRADE HOUSEBOAT RETREAT Wednesday, July 11 – Friday, July 13 We’re renting houseboats on Lake Lanier! Rising 7th graders – rising 9th graders: join us for an awesome few days of fellowship, fun and learning on the lake!

5TH-6TH GRADE ATLANTA MISSION PROJECT Monday, July 23 – Thursday, July 26 Students and staff will do various service projects throughout the Atlanta area.

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2012 SUMMER 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

Women are encouraged to grow spiritually and to understand God’s mandate for Biblical womanhood. Diligent prayer and sound biblical teaching are a foundational commitment. There are opportunities to learn and grow through several Bible studies offered weekdays or evenings.

Events are scheduled throughout the year for fellowship and outreach such as retreats/conferences, the Christmas teas, and several ministry opportunities. Additionally, the Women’s Ministry supports women through the Heart-to-Heart mentoring ministry, Widows Network, the Single Moms ministry, Single Hearts (single women over 40), Quilting for Christ, Close Knit Flock, and several community service projects throughout the year.

God wants you to know His purpose for your life. He desires for you, as a woman, to serve and reach others for Christ. Whether you are a long-time member, regular attendee, or visitor, we pray that God directs you to the area where He calls you to serve and grow within the church body.

For more information about women’s ministry, please visit apostles.org/women.

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NURTURING A HEART OF HUMILITY: THE LIFE OF MARY June 19 – July 24 (6 Weeks: No class on July 3) Tuesday Evenings, 6:30 – 8:30 Leader: Anne Hayes Room: 237 Fee: $20 Child care NOT available Single Hearts for Christ: A new fellowship for single, divorced, and widowed woman 40 and beyond invite you to join in a five-week Summer Bible Study. Ordinary Women Doing Extra-Ordinary Things: The Life of Mary. No matter where you are in life, when you follow the Lord Jesus Christ one of the most important things you can learn is to listen. He has a unique plan for you and knows exactly how to encourage you in every circumstance. It is when we surrender to His perfect will that we are blessed more abundantly than we can ever imagine. Even through difficulties, He is there to teach us to trust, learn, believe, and follow, IF WE WILL LISTEN. The study of the life of Mary is designed to demonstrate the qualities of a woman After God’s Own Heart.

A STUDY OF THE BOOK OF ESTHER: A TRIUMPH OVER THE ENEMY June 19 – August 21 (10 weeks: No class on July 3) Tuesday Mornings, 9:30 – 11:30 A.M. Leader: Charlotte Travis Room: 620-623 Fee: $20 Child care: $35 per family Spiritual warfare is real. Through Christ we are led in triumph over the enemy every time. 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 see our God lead to triumph, and pride lead to a great fall. We’ll allow God’s Word to build our faith in the mighty victory Christ offers.

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Men’s Ministry Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

– Proverbs 27:17

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.

Small groups are a place where you can join others as they grow, share, and reach out. You will grow through the discussion and application of God’s Word. You will share life with all of its joys and challenges. You will reach out to others using your spiritual gifts. Come and find your place to belong!

Our Sunday morning adult Bible classes are structured to help people not only gain knowledge, but also to acquire understanding and grow in wisdom. All classes are led by gifted facilitators in small-to-medium-sized settings.

For more information about our current classes visit apostles.org/men.

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MEN’S SMALL GROUPS

As a reference we use a book called The Heart of Mentoring by David A. Stoddard. Dave has worked closely with our core team helping us fully grasp the Ten Powerful Principles of Effective Mentoring laid out in his book. The overriding theme is that mentoring is a process facilitated by a relationship. Each partnership is unique to the needs of the younger partner.

Mentors are willing to open their lives, letting the partner see how they succeeded or failed, and above all what they learned, from their experience. Mentors are good listeners. They don’t have an agenda or want to change the mentoring partner.

They want to help their mentoring partner navigate the narrow path of a Christian life.

The ministry was started by a small core group of men interested in the concept of sharing their lives with younger men.

Dave Stoddard spent time mentoring the group and explaining the concepts from The Heart of Mentoring. It was quickly discovered that many young men were looking for someone to walk along side of them. They wanted a partner, a friend to share concerns with and to learn from that partner how he handled the life situations they are experiencing. Being under constant attack from the world, and trying to keep career, marriage, parenting, and relationships all within the context of one’s faith is challenging. Who wouldn’t want a partner!

The ministry has grown through the leading of the Holy Spirit, and many mentoring partnerships have been established.

If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Joe Ludwikowski at jludwikowski@apostles.org or 404-591-2841.

Weekday Mornings 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 404-564-3152.

THE PATH: MEN’S MENTORING The Path is a lay ministry at The Church of The Apostles that seeks to facilitate mentoring partnerships between men who have experience in the Christian walk and younger men eager to live a Christian life. Of course the Bible is our primary source of guidance. We strive hard not to create our own “program” but instead to let the Holy Spirit guide us in this effort.

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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.

For more information about Small Groups, please visit apostles.org/small-groups or contact Rhonda Saddudin at 404-564-3152 or rsaddudin@apostles.org

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS: • Atlanta • Buckhead • Chamblee • Decatur • Douglasville • Dunwoody • Mableton • Marietta • Midtown • Powder Springs • Sandy Springs • Smyrna • 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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College and Transitions His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

– 2 Peter 1:3 COLLEGE-AGE SUMMER STUDY Eternal Joy in Daily Life: A study of Philippians

letter, Paul is moved to rejoice in the midst of his situation, shining the light of his eternal joy on the darkness of his present situation.

Begins May 6 6:30 P.M. | Room 201/202 You can almost hear the rattle of Paul’s chains echoing in the dank confines of his Roman prison cell when you read the letter to the Philippians. Imprisoned for preaching the Gospel, you would expect a letter filled with melancholy. Yet in this

20s/30s

Join us Sunday evenings this summer as we consider Paul’s joy and contentment in Christ and how knowing Christ as our eternal joy impacts our perspective on our daily life.

For more information contact Zack Carden at zcarden@apostles.org

Ministry

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 It's easy to live isolated as a single adult. Our culture of progress pushes us to achieve but doesn’t always push us into genuine relationships. If you are in your 20s or 30s, you are invited to join us on Sunday evenings at 7:00 P.M. in the Commons for The Center for Faith and Culture (CFC). CFC aims to address issues that will lead us into an intelligent understanding of our world and the Gospel of Jesus.

To learn more about our main weekly gathering, small groups, service projects, and social activities please, visit www.faithandculture.cc.

Young Families Ministry 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 Our desire is to see young families connect to Christ, to the church, and to each other in meaningful ways.

The young families ministry provides opportunities for these connections to happen. On Sunday morning we have a breakfast for the whole family at 8:45, followed by a time of teaching and small groups. We also have small groups that meet in homes during the week. Finally, there are social events that are planned throughout the year in order for young families to connect socially and to get involved in reaching the community.

For more information about the young families ministry, please visit apostles.org/youngfamilies. *Young Families will not be meeting this summer. Please see page 14 for information on “The Gospel-Centered Life.”

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Adult Bible Classes Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

– 2 Timothy 2:15

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.

Our Sunday morning adult Bible classes are structured to help people not only gain knowledge, but also to acquire understanding and grow in wisdom. All classes are led by gifted facilitators in small-to-medium-sized settings.

SINGLE MOMS Starts June 3 | Sunday, 9:00 A.M. Leader: Connie Miller Room 250 The Single Moms group is for the single mom of any age, whether divorced, widowed, or never married. It is a place to belong at the church where you can come in confidence and safety, to share and be encouraged. We focus on spiritual healing and growth, maturing our faith and walk, by setting our eyes on the One who “will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). Come join us as we study what the Scriptures tell us about how to be the best mom God intends for us to be, regardless of our circumstances, as we study Parenting by The Book: Biblical Wisdom for Raising Your Child by John Rosemond.

For more information about our current classes visit apostles.org/adult-bible-studies.

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THE GOSPEL-CENTERED LIFE

questions that you would like for Maged or others to address during this series, please email them to info@kingdomsat.tv.

Starts June 3 | Sunday, 9:00 A.M. Leaders: Joe Ludwikowski & Russ Masterson Room 623 The Gospel-Centered Life is intended to help Christians understand how the Gospel shapes every aspect of life and conduct.

Colossians 1:6 says that the Gospel is “continually bearing fruit and increasing” in and among us even after we first believe. How does this happen? Why is a continual rediscovery and application of the Gospel so important? How will our personal growth and evangelism be stunted if we don’t grasp the Gospel deeply?

Class will meet June 3-24 and August 5-26 (will not meet in July).

June 3 Lesson 1: The Gospel Grid Russ Masterson June 10 Lesson 2: Pretending and Performing Joe Ludwikowski June 17 Lesson 3: Believing the Gospel Russ Masterson June 24 Lesson 4: Law and Gospel Joe Ludwikowski August 5 Lesson 5: Repentance Russ Masterson August 12 Lesson 6: Heart Idolatry Joe Ludwikowski August 19 Lesson 7: Mission Russ Masterson August 26 Lesson 8: Forgiveness Joe Ludwikowski Lesson 9: Conflict

JULY 8 Early Church/ Islamic History Speaker: Maged Atalla Conflicts and heresies within the Christian church played a role in setting the stage for the birth of Islam. In this session, Maged Atalla will explain the history of Islam within the context of the history of Christianity, including how Mohammed’s false understanding of Christianity led him to want to be a prophet to the Arabs. We’ll also examine how through the sword and hatred, this belief system spread through a mostly Christian region, and how and why it’s still spreading today.

JULY 15 The Quran/Sharia and Islamic Culture Speaker: Maged Atalla In this session, Maged Atalla dissects the mindset and mentality of every Muslim. Because of the tenets of Islam, a Muslim’s main desire and motivation is to impose Sharia law in every society.

Quotations from the Quran will explain what Sharia law is—including the religion’s low view of women and it’s deadly conversion practices—as well as why lying for the sake of spreading Islam is not only an acceptable practice in Muslim culture, it’s a key part of the deceptive strategy for overtaking a culture.

JULY 22 Muslim Evangelism: How To’s Speaker: TBD Muslims are blinded by false teaching, but they are deeply loved

by God and are sinners in need of a Savior just like we are. This session focuses how to understand Muslims and strategies of how to have conversations about Jesus with them. Insights will be shared on the way Muslims think, what they have been taught to resist evangelism, and how to talk about Jesus within Islam.

LeadinG The WaY SUMMER SERIES July 8-29 | Sundays, 9:00 A.M. The Sanctuary Islam. It’s a dangerous, deceptive, false belief system that is encroaching on our nation unawares—and ignorance is a part of its strategy. In this event, gain a better understanding of Islam and the mentality of Muslims to help you discern and judge events on the world stage. But this event is so much more than a political lesson because eternal souls are on the line— God’s heart is for all Muslims to come to know Him. Learn practical strategies for having conversations with Muslims about Jesus, because they’re deeply loved by their Creator.

During the month of July we invite you to come learn more about Islam through a series of lectures from Maged Atalla and other Leading The Way staff.

We also invite you to ask questions in advance! If you have

JULY 29 Muslim Conversion testimony, lives transformed Q&A God is working within this false religion, and He often uses unique ways to bring Muslims to Him. In this session, a Jordanian convert will share the story of how he came to know Jesus as well as other stories of how God is passionately pursing Muslims and advancing His Kingdom.

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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.

– 11 Cor. 4:7

Congregational Care ministers to members and teaches them to minister to each other. We provide visitation and personal, premarital, and marital counseling, as well as these support ministries: • Crown Financial Ministries teaches biblical principles and budgeting.

• CrossCurrent is a safe haven for those dealing with hurtful and sinful habits that affect their relationships with God and others.

• DivorceCare helps those who have faced the crisis of a divorce.

• GriefShare offers help to those who have lost loved ones in death.

• Living Waters encourages people who have struggled with recurring patterns of negative behavior and difficult relationships.

• Marriage: Legacy of Love helps couples deepen their relationships.

• OnPath is a biblically based life and work assessment course.

• Peaceful Living is a study about conflict management. Biblical principles and applications will be discovered.

• Grace Touch Ministry provides home cooked meals for those who need a touch of His grace.

• Military Outreach ministers to military and their families in the area.

• Prayer Ministry prays for the needs and activities of the congregation.

• PrimeTimers promotes fellowship and service for those over 50.

• Stephen Ministry trains laypeople to minister to those in need.

For more information about the congregational care ministry, please visit apostles.org/congregationalcare.

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SUMMER CONNECTIONS

A SUMMER GROUP FOR WOMEN Tuesday nights, May 15 - August 7 (excluding July 3) 7:00 - 8:45 P.M. Room 231 Book: $15.00 (available for purchase in class) We will study the book, The Ways of God: Working Through Us to Reveal Himself to a Watching World by Henry T. Blackaby and Roy T. Edgemon. Have you ever wondered how God is at work in this world? How is God accomplishing His purposes and revealing His will to His people, ever molding them into holy people in order to enter into a relationship with them? In addition, we will face the tough question, “How can God be sovereign and allow suffering?” And we will discuss some of the things that separate us from God: approval addiction, performance trap, the blame game, and shame. Learn how to see your worth through God’s eyes!

Register online at www.apostles.org/congregationalcare.

A SUMMER GROUP FOR MEN. Tuesday nights, May 15 - August 7 (excluding July 3) 7:00 to 8:30 P.M. Room 229A Cost: $10 We will study the characteristics of a godly man, using Thomas Watson’s book, The Godly Man’s Picture. Each meeting includes testimony, teaching, and small-group discussion and prayer. This is an opportunity for men to get to know other men. Walk in alone, walk out with friends. Attend any weeks you can. Men from past summer groups say that this group was a life-changing experience: “I was expecting a tame Sunday scholo-type class. What I got instead was an honest look at the deep needs men often have but are afraid to examine. I am so glad that the group started me on that path to freedom.”

CROSSCURRENT “I can't put a finger on the ‘mysterious power’ of hearing and discussing the testimonies each week, but it raised my spiritual antenna to see what God is doing in my life and maximized my receptivity to the Holy Spirit.”

Tuesdays, August 14 - Sept. 25 6:30 to 9:00 P.M. STS High School Room Book is optional: $10 A safe place to experience grace and truth and find victory over strongholds. In this community, God is restoring broken hearts, broken relationships, broken sexuality, and broken identity. Each week includes worship, teaching, testimony, and same-gender small groups.

Register online at www.apostles.org/congregationalcare.

“I went thinking I wanted a Bible Study, but God showed me that I needed a healing ministry—and that is exactly what I found—Him healing my wounds.”

For more information, contact Brian Maxwell at 404-5911966 or bmaxwell@apostles.org.

A SUMMER GROUP FOR WOMEN: Tuesdays, May 15 to July 31 (excluding July 3) 7:00 to 8:30 P.M. Room 243 Book is optional: $15 Loving Myself as God Does: Ending the War with Myself by Micky Land, LPC, will explore how much God loves us in spite of not being all we desire and explore how our relationship with ourselves impacts both positively and negatively our emotional life and spiritual walk. Basic principles such as the law vs. grace, who we are in Christ, boundaries, strength in weakness, co-dependency, self talk, God esteem vs. self-esteem, the Sabbath Rest, etc. will be examined. Maximum size is 12 people for small group format.

Register online at www.apostles.org/congregationalcare

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Volunteer Ministry As each has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

– 1 Peter 4:10

Get connected to ministry and service in the church family and in the community. Know your purpose and calling and use your gifts to glorify God and serve each other so that we can say thanks with our lives for all of the things that God has done for us.

If you would like to know more about how to get connected and use your gifts in serving God, please contact Melanie Poole at mpoole@apostles.org.

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CONGREGATIONAL CARE

church during the week and pray for the requests that have been received, or requests may be received via email at home.

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.

PRIMETIMERS 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.

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.

STEPHEN MINISTERS These volunteers 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 770-987-1929 or Jim Kranzusch at 770-565-1650.

MILITARY OUTREACH These volunteers provide opportunities for us to participate in service projects with various organizations and to assist and support military individuals and their families as they faithfully serve our country.

USHERS These volunteers 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.

PRAYER MINISTRY This opportunity involves the expansion of God’s Kingdom through intercession for others. Intercessors may come to the

For more information contact Gwen Wiley at gwiley@apostles.org

FIRST IMPRESSIONS MINISTRY PARKING GREETERS These volunteers help bridge people from the parking lot into the building in a warm and welcoming way.

FRONT DOOR GREETERS These volunteers warmly greet all who enter the church building and are prepared to answer any directional questions.

THE WELCOME CENTER This is the information “nerve center” of the church. Greeters are knowledgeable and always prepared to answer informational and directional questions.

SANCTUARY GREETERS An opportunity to 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.

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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 These volunteers 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 CHURCHWIDE

These volunteers teach every Sunday from 9:00 – 10:15 A.M., September – May. They are off during the summer.

The summer teachers work June – August every Sunday from 9:00 – 10:15 A.M.

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.

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.

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.

SPECIAL STONES

RUNNING CHURCH

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.

First through fourth graders participate 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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EQUIPPING THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY

KIDS’ CONNECTION 1 AND 2

STS MINISTRY

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.

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 GENERAL VOLUNTEERS

Discipleship group leaders are needed for 7th – 12th grade students.

These volunteers can help outside of Sunday mornings with administration, organization, and preparation for classes or special events.

WEDNESDAY EVENING 5th – 8th grade students: Recreation and group discussion leaders are needed.

9th – 12th grade students: Small group Bible study leaders are needed.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL A one-week commitment, usually in June, with availability for training and preparation as needed for each area of service.

OTHER OPPORTUNITIES *Parents are asked to work once a month in their children’s classrooms.

Mentoring and discipling students, students helping with retreats, missions trips and service projects.

For more information contact Kelly Skelly at kskelly@apostles.org.

For more information contact Jenny Sessoms at jsessoms@apostles.org.

WOMEN’S MINISTRY BIBLE STUDIES The heart of the Women’s Ministry at Apostles is studying God’s Word through the Bible studies. Classes are held spring, summer, and fall during the day and evening. Summer classes will start the week of June 18 and the fall classes will start on September 11. For more information, visit our website at http://apostles.org/women/ or contact Carola Wangeci at cwangeci@apostles.org.

CLOSE KNIT FLOCK anne hayes, Lay Leader 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@gmail.com for more information.

HEART-TO-HEART GROUP MENTORING The goal of Heart-to-Heart is to teach women to be life givers by understanding their biblical womanhood. The mentoring

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SINGLE HEARTS FOR CHRIST Jan Blakeslee, Lay Leader Single Hearts for Christ: A fellowship for single, divorced, and widowed women 40 and beyond. Single Hearts for Christ is a women’s fellowship group 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, but it is certain that each one offers a plethora of experiences, perspectives, challenges, and gifts. In Christ, we have all that we need for life and ministry. Come join us by contacting Jan Blakeslee at jblakeslee@apostles.org or visit apostles.org/women/singlehearts for more information. 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.

For more information contact Carola Wangeci at cwangeci@apostles.org.

GENERAL VOLUNTEERS RECEPTIONIST DESK During the week, cover the receptionist desk at lunchtime for one hour on a rotating basis.

QFC – QUILTING FOR CHRIST Julee James, Lay Leader 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, Atlanta Union Mission, Feed My Lambs, Bridge Ministry, and orphanages. Please contact Julee James by email at juleejames@earthlink.net.

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.

SINGLE MOMS

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.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT DINNER

SPECIAL EVENTS

Connie Miller, Lay Leader The Single Moms Ministry offers value to you, the single mom.

The focus is on your spiritual growth and your heart. The group offers mentoring, financial counseling, Sunday Bible Study with childcare, quarterly fellowship luncheons, etc.

Please contact Connie Miller at conniemiller10@gmail.com.

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT Provide general administrative help during the week as needed.

For more information contact Melanie Poole at mpoole@apostles.org.

WIDOWS NETWORK

MISSIONS

The Widow’s 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 as well. Please email Marion Sharp at memum@bellsouth.net.

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 more about 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

You can find information about all of our ministries, upcoming events, ways to get involved.

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