M A R C H GO&MAKE 1
IN THIS ISSUE 14 COVER STORY: THE EVIDENCE Did the resurrection of Jesus really happen? This Easter season we unpack the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus starting with the reliability of the biblical account.
16 CASELY ESSAMUAH: 13 YEARS OF SERVICE After 13 years of dedicated service as Bay Area’s Global Missions Pastor, Casely has accepted a new role as Secretary of the Global Christian Forum. In this issue, he reflects on his ministry at Bay Area.
18 CHANGED: MIKE & ABBY'S STORY Easton Campus Pastor Craig Fadel shares the story of a couple who have been attending for a little over a year and the exciting life-change they’ve experienced as Jesus has drawn them closer to Himself. 2 GO&MAKE M A R C H
20 HELP MAKE EASTER A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE Easter and Christmas are the two days people are most willing to check out church. This Easter, we have the opportunity to make them feel welcome by creating space for new families to join us and by serving like Jesus.
We appreciate your comments and questions. Please email us at feedback@bayareacc.org and a staff member or elder will respond within 48 hours.
Gathering Times: 7:50, 9:20, 11:20 a.m.
MAGAZINE CREDITS EDITOR Meredith Thompson ART DIRECTOR Josh Shirlen ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Arianne Teeple LEAD DESIGNER Josh Burgin GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jake Williams CONTRIBUTORS Andy Smith Craig Fadel Michele Rollins
ELDERS Barry Willhite Bill Plenge Bill Smith Chris Heacock David McPeak Don Wiley Greg St. Cyr J. Upton John Taylor Keith Riniker Ken Gilmore Peter Godfrey Rich Heath Roger Ishii Tim Grossman Tom Hogan Warwick Fairfax
884 Chesterfield Rd. Annapolis, MD 21401
410.544.2222
BAY AREA LEADERSHIP Brent Squires, Student Ministry Pastor – brent.squires@bayareacc.org Brian Hopper, Missional Community Pastor – brian.hopper@bayareacc.org Casely Essamuah, Global Missions Pastor – casely.essamuah@bayareacc.org Craig Fadel, Easton Campus Pastor – craig.fadel@bayareacc.org Ed Kelley, Executive Pastor – ed.kelley@bayareacc.org Gail Wiles, Children’s Ministry Director – gail.wiles@bayareacc.org Greg St. Cyr, Lead Pastor – greg.stcyr@bayareacc.org Janet Graves, Women’s Ministry Director – janet.graves@bayareacc.org Jerry Shirlen, Financial Administrator – jerry.shirlen@bayareacc.org Jocelyn Sacks, Missional Community Director – jocelyn.sacks@bayareacc.org Jonathan Madrid, Worship Leader – jonathan.madrid@bayareacc.org Josh Shirlen, arts – josh.shirlen@bayareacc.org Leanne Lane, Care Network Director – leanne.lane@bayareacc.org Meredith Thompson, Communications Director – meredith.thompson@bayareacc.org Pat Linnell, Teaching Pastor – pat.linnell@bayareacc.org Ron Dutton, Operations Director – ron.dutton@bayareacc.org
For a comprehensive list of all BACC staff, elders and deacons, please visit bayareacc.org/leadership M A R C H GO&MAKE 3
LETTER FROM THE LEAD
A Chapter A Day For The Rest Of Your Life
Dear Bay Area family, If I could wish anything for you, it would be two things. First, absolute surrender to the Lord Jesus Christ. That means dying to self, surrendering your own agenda, and saying “yes” in advance to whatever God’s will is for you. Second, it would be to read and reflect upon the Bible every day. If you embrace the axiom “a chapter a day for the rest of your life,” you will find yourself becoming radically transformed into the likeness of Jesus. For the last 40 years I’ve been trying to walk with the Lord. I can say with full conviction that daily time in the Word, read in a spirit of prayerful conversation with the Lord, has had the greatest impact on my life. In Luke 10, while Martha is concerned with all the preparations needed to feed Jesus, Mary is “seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word” (Luke 10:39). That is the posture each of us must take every day. The words of Jesus to Martha are needed for you and me: “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42). Let me draw your attention to the verb, “has chosen.” Mary made a choice. Jesus said that “one thing is necessary.” What is that? The one thing necessary is spending time with Him. We are to be like Mary and prioritize listening to His Word. In order to do that, you are going to have to make a daily choice. Like Mary, this will require that you leave some things undone. Please don’t say you are too busy. The truth is we all make choices. It’s not a matter of time. It’s really a matter of priorities. If you will read and reflect on a chapter a day (you can always do more), here’s what you will experience:
• • • • • • • •
your faith will be strengthened your heart will be purified your spirit will be at peace you will be emotionally and physically refreshed your time will be maximized you will draw upon the wisdom of God you will be prepared for trial and heartache you will experience overflowing joy
If all this is true, it would be foolish not to commit to daily Bible reflection. David writes this: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130 Light to illuminate. Understanding to the confused. That’s what we all need. So, if you don’t have a good Bible like the English Standard Version or the New International Version, order one today! Then set a definite place and time to be with the Lord and His Word. You’ll need a reading plan such as the 100 day challenge (read the Gospel of John, Ephesians, Romans, Genesis and Psalms 1, 23, 32, 63, 67, 103 and 145). Start with 15 minutes a day to read, reflect and allow God to speak to you. Make the choice to read a chapter a day for the rest of your life. In the words of Jesus, it is the “one thing” that is necessary!
From here to the nations,
Greg St. Cyr Lead Pastor
Greg St. Cyr is the lead pastor at Bay Area Community Church and a monthly contributor to GO&MAKE. M A R C H GO&MAKE 5
by Pat Linnell
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ur world is starved and ready for real love, real kindness and real compassion. Like a weary desert traveler, sun-scorched and dying for a drop of water, unexpected care cools the parched tongue and kindness refreshes the dry soul. I believe this is why you see the desire for doing good incorporated into many business plans today – millennial entrepreneurs on “Shark Tank” pitch not only their business, but also their cause, their way to give back. Seems like ever since Toms shoes blew up on the platform of “get one give one,” many others have been intrigued about doing good, or at least hoping altruism pays off as a business strategy. Pay-it-forward campaigns are also endearing and popular. Just this past season Starbucks was preaching “give good” and the contagious nature of kindness. This is what the banner at the front door said, for those who took time to read it: “The holidays are here, and good is in the air. Hold the door for someone, connect over coffee, say hi to a stranger, give perfect gifts to the ones you love. And once good starts, it keeps growing from one person to the next—simple acts of kindness that touch the lives of many. Because good is contagious and giving is too. GIVE GOOD.” You see and hear these rumblings of kindness, love and grace flame up in culture, because that is what so many are missing – the unconditional love of God and His grace, and they are drawn to any semblance of it, even if it gets you to buy more coffee. Giving good should be the Church’s wheelhouse, but instead we have a reputation of an outhouse: an old, judgmental system that has been relegated to a position outside the social conversation, especially when it comes to who is doing the most good in loving, building up and encouraging people. This is not Starbucks’ calling, it is ours. God could use Starbucks to help accomplish His purposes, but how much more does He desire His church to accomplish them by simple, everyday obedience to His expressed will. Jesus makes it clear that His followers should stand out in our ability to bless our communities. After a lengthy discourse of the character of disciples, He says:
" YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A CITY ON A HILL CANNOT BE HIDDEN. NOR DO PEOPLE LIGHT A LAMP AND PUT IT UNDER A BASKET, BUT ON A STAND, AND IT GIVES LIGHT TO ALL IN THE HOUSE. IN THE SAME WAY, LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE BEFORE OTHERS, SO THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD WORKS AND GIVE GLORY TO YOUR FATHER WHO IS IN HEAVEN." (MATTHEW 5:14 16) While there is a biblical notion of giving in secret, there is also this plain teaching to do good in this world while representing the name of Jesus. People will see these acts of love, inspired by Jesus, and ultimately give glory to God. The Church, the conglomerate of those faithful believers in Jesus, who together form the “bride of Christ” should be so good at giving good that we should be shaping the landscape of love in our world. But today, we are not the leading the charge. And I believe this can change, that we can step out of the perceived outhouse, to walk in those good works God has prepared in advance for us to do, thus claiming our divine birthright of displaying the grace we have received in Jesus. Getting out of the outhouse requires a strategy to embolden everyday neighbor awareness, a tool to get in the game of love – a ticket to exit the outhouse. Ours is Grace Bombing. For a refresher look back at gracebomb.org, arm yourself with a stack of Grace Bomb cards, and obey that prompting when you feel led to drop one on your unsuspecting neighbor. It may be the very drop that scorched tongue and thirsty soul is dying for.
Pat Linnell is the teaching pastor at Bay Area Community Church and a monthly contributer to GO&MAKE.
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by Ed Kelley
8 GO&MAKE FMEABRRCUHA R Y
ou’ve heard of Sola Fide (Faith Alone), Solo Christo (Christ Alone) or maybe Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone). These are all famous from the Reformation and were cries of change. Instead of indulgences or papal bulls/edicts or proclamations of man-made absolutions, Luther and his friends were trying to get people to focus on standards, values and ways of thinking. It worked. It changed the world. Well... Today’s world is dominated not by Sola Fide or Sola Gratia but rather Sola Feele. I just made that up. Sola Feele is Feelings Alone. Nothing else matters in this world we live in. Hurt Feelings. Sore Feelings. Bothered Feelings. Decisions by Feelings. The Bible is full of emotion and feelings no doubt, but nowhere does it say we are to be dominated by our feelings of our past, our image, our shortcomings. Feelings cannot be trusted. They are flippant and fleeting, circumstantial at best, conditional in their approach to life.
When we’re constantly battling sin and its effects, Romans 6 and 7 and Eph. 6 are our battle cry. When we sin because we know we’re forgiven and will be forgiven we turn to Jude 3 and 4 and realize perhaps, just perhaps, that may not be true? When we’re so sensitive to every word, every phrase, every look, from others, we remember that we are to be “easy forgivers” based on Jesus’ words about “Forgive them (the ones sticking nails in my hands and feet) for they know not what they do” or we would apply Romans 14:5-6 and realize there are “weaker” brothers and sisters. When we want to gossip and slander (even to our spouses) against people we find out that the Bible says “let no unwholesome speech come out of our mouths.” When we want to judge someone unfairly or hypocritically we remember the admonition from Matthew 7 about the log and the speck. When we are feeling sorry for ourselves and lash out at others with our cutting words and bad attitudes, we remember that someone laid down their life for our salvation and we are to “treat others better than ourselves.” Sigh.
Sola Biblica.
Pipe dream? Okay I am back to Sola Feele. We now can continue having nebulous feelings of sadness toward others; nebulous anger toward people who may have tried to correct us (we probably deserved some portion of it); back to living life with unstable feelings, anger and irritation.
How about instead of our feelings and emotions dominating our decisions we allow only the Bible to dominate our thinking and direction?
Or, we could try to orient our lives around Sola Biblica - hopefully while we’re still on this side of Heaven?
I want to suggest something else for you to consider (and you can disagree with me by the way, though that art has been lost in the crazy world we live in – people are so easily offended these days).
When we’re offended by someone, Matthew 18. Follow that. When we’re thinking we’re broken constantly, with no hope, 2 Cor. 5:17. Follow that. When we’re sick and tired of the world we live in and sin, Rev. 22 and Maranatha is our focus.
Ed Kelley is the executive pastor at Bay Area Community Church and a monthly contributer to GO&MAKE.
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by Brian Hopper
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“And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.’ Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.” - Mark 1:17-18 Early in Mark’s gospel, we get this powerful picture of Jesus inviting Peter and Andrew to join Him in His missionary discipleship endeavor. At first blush, it appears that Peter and Andrew are encountering Jesus for the first time and are so overcome by His invitation that they immediately leave their vocations to follow and serve Him. Most biblical scholars, however, tell us that this is not the first time Peter and Andrew had met or been in contact with Jesus. They both had previously been exposed to Him and His ministry. So when Jesus came to call them, in some way, they were already prepared to drop their nets and follow Him (see John 1:35-42). Now in many ways, we are all called to respond to Jesus’ invitation to follow Him and become fishers of men. That invitation applies to everyone. In fact, here at Bay Area, we use this passage to define what a disciple of Jesus is - someone who follows Jesus, is changed by Jesus, and is on mission with Jesus. So for Peter and Andrew that day, it most definitely was an invitation to be a disciple maker. But it was also an invitation for them to leave their vocation and commit everything they had to follow and serve Jesus. And as we later in Mark 3, Jesus calls or more fully appoints Peter and Andrew to be part of the inner 12 - a calling that we have not seen since. The point is, Jesus calls all of us to be a disciple with Him in ministry and yet calls some to serve Him in a fulltime vocational way as a pastor, church planter or missionary. It is this calling that we as a church feel compelled to help men and women answer. All throughout history, the local church has been the primary training grounds for men and women to be equipped for full-time ministry. As far back as the Apostle Paul’s ministry, men and women were trained up, on the ground, in the midst of real ministry, real life situations, real people. We get clear pictures of this in Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus. And though the church was still in its infancy and being established, it was (and has been) the best place to prepare folks for full-time ministry. Naturally, seminaries and missionary schools offer some of the best education for emerging pastors, church planters and missionaries. But as many seminaries are learning, their educational training divorced from the practical ministry experience and characterbuilding done in the local church is not producing the best leaders. As seminary President Albert Mohler
says, “The seminary can provide a depth and breadth of formal studies, all needed by the minister, but it cannot replace the local church as the context where ministry is learned most directly.” This is why two years ago we launched the Bay Area residency. Our residency program prepares and equips highcapacity leaders to pastor or plant local churches or be sent as missionaries to serve in the global church. We focus on preparing residents for fulltime vocational ministry by training them in our local context, emphasizing growth in the areas of godly character, biblical knowledge and practical ministry skills. The residency comprises two oneyear intensives where year one focuses on core curriculum and ministry foundations while year two emphasizes training in a specific ministry field. Residents raise support for their two-year training and work full time in the context of our church, gaining valuable lessons and experiences that prepare them for full-time vocational ministry. In the end, the residency prepares candidates for ordination, commissioning and/or being sent into full-time vocational ministry. We currently have five residents and this year, we are excited to be sending one Church planter (Jorge Solorzano) and ordaining two Pastors (Jake Wieduwilt and Joseph Sharon). We believe the local church is the best place to prepare pastors, church planters and missionaries. That is why we are so committed to helping emerging leaders respond to the call of full-time vocational ministry and helping equip them to lead. If you or someone you know believes they are being called into full-time vocational ministry and would like to find out more about the Bay Area residency, please have them email me to find out more (brian. hopper@bayareacc.org). We are currently seeking future residents for our September trimester.
Brian Hopper is the Missional Community Pastor at Bay Area Community Church and a regular contributer to GO&MAKE.
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EYE TO EYE
TO SEE AND BE SEEN A ONE-DAY WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
Saturday, March 10 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m Speaker Marilyn Anderes Our lives will change when we see the God who longs to meet us with His love, truth and power. Join us for this day of teaching, connecting, workshops and lunch together.
Check-in 8:30 a.m. Cost $30 Register online at bayareacc.org/register
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VISION PREVIEW NIGHT We’re inviting all who serve and lead to join us for a vision rally on M A R C H 15, 18 O R 19 as we unveil what we are believing God to do at Bay Area through the exciting vision He has given us for the next two years.
bayareacc.org/register M A R C H GO&MAKE 13
by Pat Linnell
id the resurrection of Jesus really happen? This is perhaps the most important question someone could ever dare to ask, even though it’s the least likely question you’ll ever hear discussed. Most people find it quite plausible that Jesus was a real person who lived in a real place at a real time. Many would also concede that Jesus of Nazareth was crucified under the watch of Pontius Pilate during the reign of the Roman Empire. But to say that this dead person, after He was professionally executed and meticulously wrapped in grave clothes and buried in a sealed tomb, actually returned from death as a real live person again—well that is a tougher pill to swallow, because dead people stay dead. It is this historical event that people must take sides on – the resurrection either happened or it did not. If it did not happen, then Jesus must have been delusional or diabolical since He predicted it would. But if it did, then Jesus must be taken as the ultimate authority in our lives. And because Christianity is not rooted in human philosophy, but in human history, there should be evidence for or against the resurrection. Only four of the major world religions are founded on a personality and not a philosophy, and only one of those claim that it’s founder has been raised from the dead. This Easter season at Bay Area, we will be exploring the evidence that points to the literal, historical, physical resurrection of Jesus. Here is a preview of the path we’ll take.
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A RELIABLE SOURCE SPEAKS The Bible is a unique book. More than a book, the Bible is actually a collection of books – 66 of them that were written by some 40 different authors, on three continents, in three different languages, spanning some 1,500 years. Put together, the Bible tells one cohesive story about God and His creation, ultimately revealing Jesus, the promised Savior and answer to the brokenness of the world. Its pages contain various genres of literature, from poetic to historical, and come to us from the meticulously preserved Hebrew oral traditions of the Old Testament prophets and the Greek writings of the close associates
and eyewitnesses of Jesus that form the New Testament. The Bible claims for itself an origin from the will of God as divinely inspired words. Due to the overwhelming archeological manuscript evidence, we can confidently check our text today against those early copies of the originals. This means that the Bible has not changed over the millennia to a distorted version of the original. Today more than ever, we can have confidence in the reliability of the historical accuracy of the Bible. This integrity is important because it is in the Bible that
we see the clearest proclamation of the resurrection, and it should be entered as exhibit A, a reliable source. Exhibit A speaks. All four gospels give an account of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Before He was handed over to trial and crucifixion Jesus made specific claims of coming back to life on the third day. The Apostle Paul would go on to write about the resurrection being the essential linchpin of the faith. And the clear teaching of the Apostles in the book of Acts revolves around the resurrection of Jesus. To take the Bible seriously is to take the resurrection of Jesus seriously.
“ Today more than ever, we can have confidence in the reliability of the historical accuracy of the Bible.”
CIRCUMSTANTIAL EVIDENCE MOUNTS Like any good case being built, Exhibit A is just the beginning. Other arguments begin to mount. The first to consider is the empty tomb. The oppression against this “sect” of Jesus followers at the time of His death was a fever pitch. If there was ever a lineup of opposition to stop a movement in its tracks, it was the same group of people who had Jesus tracked down and killed. These powerful and influential rulers of the Jews would simply need to produce the body of Jesus to stop the gossip of resurrection once and for all.
resurrection only 72 hours after His death. These soldiers would have been on high alert.
Sitting underneath this question is another question of how the tomb would have been emptied in the first place outside of the miraculous. Under professional Roman guard, sealed and blocked by a huge stone – how could anyone have slipped under the radar to steal a body? Not even the cast of “Ocean’s 11” could have pulled this one off – especially given the predictions that Jesus had made of His impending
So now, seemingly overnight the Apostles were boldly and publicly proclaiming what they had seen, Jesus raised from death, and were willing to die themselves to stand by these claims. If the Apostles had made all this up, would they have died for it? What did they have to gain by dying for a lie? As tradition holds, all the Apostles were killed for their faith, except John who was sent away to die in exile.
Going beyond these speculations, there was now new evidence being born as cowards became martyrs. Jesus’ friends scattered after His crucifixion, and were in hiding until they encountered their dead friend who was now right back in front of them. I suppose hanging out with someone after you saw them killed has a life-changing effect on a person.
The movement then went viral. With no Internet and no social media, the news of the resurrected Jesus – the Jewish messiah, predicted in the Jewish Scriptures – exploded on the world scene. And this news was not just of the dead come back to life; it was also the news of what this resurrection meant, namely, that the promised savior of the world had come, and in love came to give all people a gift of righteousness. This opens a whole other exhibit of evidence, the newness of life that takes hold in those who truly embrace this love of God evidenced in the resurrection of Jesus. One of the worthiest explorations in life is to seek the truth about the resurrection. Since we are dealing with history, it either happened or it did not. Perhaps it is now time to weigh the evidence for yourself.
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C A S E LY ESSAMUAH 13 YEARS OF SERVICE AT B AY AREA
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After 13 years of ded icated service as Bay Area’s Global Missions Pastor, Casely Essamuah has accepted a new role as Secretary of t he Global Christ ian Forum. There, he wil l be a missionary devoted to mobil izing churches for prayer. Casely wil l begin his new role on July 1, 2018. Reflect ing on how t his opportunity came about and his years of ministry at Bay Area, Casely has s hared some personal highl ights t hroughout his t ime serving wit h us. Here’s what he had to say:
HOW DID THE OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN THE LEADERSHIP OF GLOBAL CHRISTIAN FORUM COME ABOUT? In June of last year, a friend forwarded to me an opportunity to offer myself as a candidate for the soon-to-be-vacant secretary position of an organization I had never heard of, the Global Christian Forum (GCF). Honestly, I was not interested but the friend kept insisting. Reluctantly I discussed with my dear wife Angela, and then checked with a few people who I thought knew about the organization. To my surprise, they were all affirmative that I would be a good candidate. In my heart I believed they were wrong, so I reluctantly submitted my resume, thinking I had nothing to lose. In November I was informed that I had been shortlisted and needed to go to Rome for the interview. The more I read about the organization from their website, and other literature, the more my heart resonated with the call to prayer, testimony and fellowship that GCF espouses, embracing all the different brands of the global Christian family. Ultimately, I said “Yes” to the Lord’s calling.
T E L L U S A B O U T G C F A N D W H AT YOU’LL BE DOING THERE. GCF creates an open space where different denominations can gather and share what Jesus is doing in their lives, pray together, and pray for one another, with a view that walls that have divided the body of Christ will be lowered – if not destroyed – and bridges will be built for cooperation and collaboration. As GCF’s executive officer, my primary responsibility will be convening prayer gatherings. GCF has a virtual office — it moves with the location of the Secretary, so I will continue to be here in Maryland for as long as the Lord would have me. When I’m not traveling, I will be coming to Bay Area! So this is not a goodbye.
H O W D I D Y O U C O M E T O B AY AREA IN 2005? I had finished my doctorate, and as a family we were praying about how the Lord would have us serve. My wife Angela was working here in D.C., so she was commuting from Boston to D.C. for a few days each week. Our kids were much younger, and I had a very full plate at a church that had a missions budget of $1.2 million. Greg had read the book “Today’s All-Star Missions Churches” (which features several global missions pastors including Casely) and sent an email [with Bay Area’s job description for the open global missions pastor position] to all the pastors in the book, and the story is that nobody responded. I did, but I gave him two names of people that I thought would be good. Then we went back to praying, “Lord, what would you have us do?” Then it just hit us ... so I looked at the distance between Annapolis and D.C., and had no idea it was just an hour. I put my name in and the rest is history.
W H AT A R E S O M E H I G H L I G H T S O F YOUR TIME SERVING HERE? Two of the biggest things have been the emphases on South Sudan and India. We didn’t have Sudan or India as partners when I came here. They’ve since come about through relationships we had, and we’ve gone deep with them. Managing those relationships is what I’ve done for the last 13 years. The focus on short term missions has been big during my time here, up to its peak last year when we sent out 163. Over the last four years we’ve sent about 500. We’ve also strengthened our partnerships with those who are receiving teams. When Greg and I visited five of our partners in January last year it was so encouraging to see the fruit of the labor of 10 years of work in terms of tilling the soil and investing in those places.
T E L L U S A B O U T W H AT Y O U ’ V E MOST ENJOYED WHILE SERVING H E R E AT B AY A R E A . A personal highlight for me has been seeing people take the next step in their walk with Jesus. If you talk about people who are not comfortable praying out loud who can now do that because they’ve been on a short term mission trip, names come to mind. If you talk about someone saying, “I’ve been coming to church but I really wasn’t reading my Bible regularly – until I went on a trip and I had to do that,” a name comes to mind. If you talk about sharing the gospel – “I never would have thought I could share the gospel, but when I was out there all my inhibitions were down and I was able to do it” – several names come to mind. If you talk about finding community here at Bay Area – “It was such a large church I didn’t connect with anyone, but I came back and the people that I went on the trip with, when we meet in the lobby we’re like best friends.” Discovering that God can use you is huge. People say, “I’m a better follower of Jesus because I went out and I served, and now I’m back here either serving here, giving regularly, or in a Missional Community.”
A S Y O U P R E PA R E F O R T H I S TRANSITION, HOW ARE YOU FEELING? To the extent that some of what I did contributed in a small way to making real Every One A Missionary, I say, “Thank you Jesus.” The overwhelming emotion at this time is really gratitude … that for 13 years of my one-and-only life the Lord saw fit to have us here and to use us. I have had a front-row seat as the good people of Bay Area have blessed the nations through global missions. I am so humbled that some of what the Lord allowed us to do has extended His kingdom, kept people alive physically and spiritually, and grown all of us closer to King Jesus.
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M I K E
A N D
A B B Y ’ S
S T O R Y
by Craig Fadel
If you knew Abby and Mike a year ago, you may not recognize them today. I’m not talking about a major change in their outward appearance. I’m talking about the way that they see God, their ability to handle stress, and their overall approach to life. God has been changing them. They have more peace, care about different things, habits have changed, relationships with family and coworkers have changed and they are on a new trajectory.
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“
They want others to know and find Who they have known and found.
”
I remember talking to Mike and Abby at a Christmas Eve gathering in 2016. Mike told me later that it felt like “home” when he first came to our church service. Abby had been invited to check out Bay Area Easton and came the first time to see if her kids might like it. She said it wasn’t long before she wanted to come for personal growth as well. It was no longer about her kids, but about what God was doing in her. For the first time in a church, she felt like she was really understanding what was being taught and she loved it. As Mike and Abby got to know the church, they joined a Learning Community called Starting Point. As they reflected on this experience, this was a big turning point on their faith journey. “I didn’t realize that the Bible is real,” Mike shared one night at Starting Point. He explained that he knew it was a book, but didn’t realize it was actually true, useful for life and helped us know God. “Yes,” I responded, “and did you know that Christianity is about Jesus?” “No, I didn’t,” Mike said with a bit of amazement in his voice. “That can be normal,” I assured him. “People who have attended church can easily miss what it’s all about.” Mike and Abby asked great questions and gained a new understanding of Jesus and the Bible. They were also surprised when they heard the Ten Commandments. “I didn’t know you weren’t supposed to say God’s name in vain,” confessed Abby. “We’re trying not to say that as much anymore.”
Not only did Mike and Abby attend a Learning Community, they also started serving on Sundays and continued to find ways to connect with the church through a Missional Community and even becoming Ministry Partners making passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations. When Mike, Abby and I met one evening, I asked them if they understood the good news of Jesus and what He has done for them. They both said yes and that they truly believed it! Though a few years ago they might have told you they were Christians, looking back, they don’t think they were. Now, they know they are following Jesus and you can see it in the focus and sincerity in their eyes. They want others to know and find Who they have known and found. Mike has been telling his coworkers about Jesus and inviting his family to church; he was encouraged to continue despite some adversity when he heard a recent sermon by Pat Linnell called “Not Ashamed.” It’s inspiring to see Mike and Abby have a new passion for helping others know Jesus. If you show up on a Sunday in Easton, you might have the front door opened for you by Mike, be greeted by Abby in the lobby and see their kids in Children’s Ministry. You would never know that much of this is new for them. However, God has done a new work in their lives and people around them are noticing. The other day a close family member of theirs joined the Easton campus on a Sunday morning; they said they had to find out what’s going on at this church because Mike and Abby have “changed.”
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HELP MAKE EASTER A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE by Meredith Thompson
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hildren’s Ministry Coordinator Kristin recently shared with me that Easter Sunday 2017 was when she and her husband, Matt, began attending Bay Area. They still recall the joy of witnessing baptisms and the warm welcome they received from those in the Bay Area family who were serving that day. It was part of what encouraged them to come back the following Sunday, and for weeks after. Ultimately, they both committed to serving in Children’s Ministry as they became more involved at Bay Area. Today, Kristin helps train and lead others who serve through her role on staff. If you were to ask her and Matt about the impact that Easter 2017 had on their lives, they would tell you that it was a life-changing experience. Their story is not unique at Bay Area. It’s our desire that everyone who enters our doors would feel welcome and loved as we create an environment for them to connect with Jesus. Certainly, people are drawn for their first and subsequent visits through our Biblical teaching and passionate worship, but the impact that our volunteers have on a first-time visitor can’t be overlooked. Sometimes all a person needs is a warm smile and a friendly “Hello” to feel at home in a new setting. This Easter, when people around us are most open to checking out church, it’s especially important that we lock arms in serving our guests who will join us, perhaps for the first time, to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. On a typical Sunday, it takes nearly 500 volunteers across our ministry areas to make our Annapolis gatherings happen and 50 in Easton. Because of the influx of families and guests we’ll welcome on April 1, we know we’ll need an
additional 200 to serve in Annapolis and 15 in Easton. We’re also praying that 80 people will step up to serve at Broadneck High School on Easter, where we will hold two additional gatherings at 9 and 11 a.m. with Pat preaching live and Jonathan leading worship. As a staff, we’re super excited to have this opportunity to reach more people in Cape St. Claire, Arnold and surrounding communities. We’re asking those who live on the Broadneck Peninsula who haven’t already committed to serving in Annapolis to attend and serve in Broadneck. This will help create a life-changing experience for our guests there while creating room for people in Annapolis. If you don’t live near the Broadneck Peninsula and plan to celebrate with us in Annapolis this Easter, there’s an additional way you and your family can serve our guests. We’re asking those who call Bay Area home and are committed to our mission to attend one of our two early gatherings, at 6:20 a.m. in the chapel or 7:50 a.m. in the auditorium or chapel, to create room during the more optimal gathering times for guests and visitors. Last year we were thrilled to see God bring 4,113 people to our Annapolis campus on Easter, but unfortunately, some families left before they ever found a seat in our gatherings. Whether you serve in Annapolis, Broadneck or Easton this Easter, we want to encourage you to follow Jesus’ example in John 13, take the posture of a servant, and help others feel welcome through love and humility. Like it was in 2017 for Kristin and Matt, for the person whom you greet, guide to a seat, or welcome into Children’s Ministry, Easter 2018 could be a lifechanging experience.
WHAT ROLE will you play? by Michele Rollins
It takes a lot of people to make a movie. Think about it – have you ever sat in a movie theater, watching the lines and lines of names scroll past (perhaps waiting to see if there is a postcredits scene as a reward for those who slog through the credits)? Beyond the actors in the leading roles you may not pay much attention, but each name represents a person who worked, often behind the scenes, to help make your movie a reality, something worth spending $14.50 (and that’s before popcorn). Without each person in their correct role (or roles), something would be missing. In the same way, as followers of Jesus each of us has a part to play in God’s grand redemptive plan for the nations. At different times in our lives, we’re called to play different roles, but we’re not called to simply sit in the audience. Which roles are you called to play in 2018?
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GO:
SEND:
If you’re able to travel and have the time to commit to team preparation, one of your roles this year may be to GO to another culture on one of Bay Area’s short-term missions teams. As a traveling member of a short-term missions team, you will have the opportunity to experience another culture, build community with your team members, make new friends, and grow in your faith (check out last month’s issue of GO&MAKE to see how you can “GO to GROW”).
At Bay Area, we’re on a journey of generosity. This idea is undergirded by the principle that God owns it all – we are simply stewards of that which He has entrusted to us. As stewards, we want to expend our time, talent and treasure in line with God’s passion and principles. God has a grand redemptive plan for the nations, and one role you can play in it is to equip others to go.
PRAY:
MOBILIZE:
No matter your life situation, whether you’ve ever left the country, or how long you’ve been following Jesus, one of your roles can be to pray specifically for a country, team or short term missions participant this year. When we pray for God’s work among people and nations who don’t yet know Him, we glorify Him and partner with Him to bring about eternal change. Consider setting aside time each day or week to pray for one of Bay Area’s global partners, one or more of the short term missions teams, or a person you know who’s traveling on a short term missions team this year.
This role is especially for those who have served on the missions field before or those who are serving in a position of influence over a family, Missional Community, student community group, volunteer team or other group of Jesusfollowers. Leadership is influence, and you may be in a unique leadership role in someone’s life to encourage them to embrace God’s heart for the nations by joining a short term missions team or serving in one or more of the non-traveling roles to support missions this year.
There are other ways to serve the nations, too. Do you know someone from a foreign culture living here in Maryland who doesn’t know Jesus? Consider how you might share God’s love with them. Do you have questions about God’s plan for the nations? Consider learning more – ask a friend, pick up a book about missions, or reach out to missions@bayareacc.org for more resources. No matter what – no matter your season of life, your finances, your health, your kids’ schedule or your level of spiritual maturity – if you are a follower of Jesus, you have the joy of partnering with Him and with us at Bay Area to make passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations. One day, the post-credits scene will take place gathered around the throne, worshiping God with people from every nation, tribe and tongue. To join a 2018 short term missions team, visit bayareacc.org/stm to fill out the GO Form. Sign up for a July team by April 1!
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CARE NETWORK
HAPPENINGS OUR MISSION Making passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations
OUR VISION There are five things we desire for every follower of Jesus who calls Bay Area home to do:
CONNECT IN COMMUNITY SERVE LIKE JESUS GO ON A MISSION TRIP SHARE THE GOSPEL WORSHIP TOGETHER
YOUR FIRST STEP New to Bay Area or want to get involved? Join us at First Step, a fun, one-hour gathering where you’ll learn about who we are, what we believe, and what your next steps are to get plugged into community and serving at Bay Area! Coffee, snacks and KidCare are provided. Take your first step at Bay Area by signing up today to attend one of the gatherings: Sunday, March 4 at 9:20 a.m., Sunday, March 4 at 11:20 a.m. or Tuesday, March 6 at 7 p.m. in the Bay Café classroom. Register: bayareacc.org/firststep For those who have already completed First Step, our next Second Step gathering is Sunday, April 8 from 12:30-4 p.m. Register: bayareacc.org/ membership
BAPTISM WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE BAPTIZED? For more information, contact: • K-5th: gail.wiles@bayareacc.org • 6-12th: brent.squires@bayareacc.org • Adults: dax.clinkscale@bayareacc.org 24 GO&MAKE M A R C H
Sometimes life hands us struggles: loss of a loved one, serious illness, parenting difficulties, divorce, addiction and other challenges. These difficult circumstances can cause us to isolate, yet God never intended that we walk through them alone. The Care Network is a free, confidential, Jesus-centered ministry for those seeking assistance. We provide hope and healing through a variety of resources both inside and outside the walls of Bay Area. Info: leanne.lane@bayareacc.org
GRIEFSHARE SUPPORT GROUP Thursdays through 5/10, 6:45-9 p.m. (join at any time) There can be a deep, prolonged impact caused by the death of a spouse, child, family member or close friend. The griever often needs ongoing support and encouragement. This support group meets weekly to help those grieving by providing a safe place to walk through this time. Register: bayareacc.org/register
DIVORCECARE SUPPORT GROUP Mondays through 4/23, 6:45-9 p.m. (join at any time) Are you separated, in the process of a divorce or already divorced? This can be one of the most difficult times in life and we want to provide help. DivorceCare is a weekly support group led by facilitators who have experienced divorce and rebuilt their lives. The group will feature practical information, biblical teaching and encouragement. Register: bayareacc.org/register
TEMPORARY HOUSING FOR PREMARITAL COUPLES We believe strongly that the best way to honor God before marriage is to remain pure and live separately. We’re looking for folks who have temporary space in their homes that could be used in order to fulfill this desire. Info: leanne.lane@bayareacc.org
PREMARITAL MENTORING The premarital mentoring team is looking for couples to come alongside engaged couples. If you are married 10+ years and have a passion for helping couples start their marriages in a Jesus-honoring way email premarital.ministry@bayareacc.org.
ENGAGED? We want to partner with you as you establish a strong, Jesus-centered life. Through premarital mentoring you’ll be paired with trained marriage mentors who will equip you with the tools and resources you’ll need to succeed in marriage. Info: premarital.ministry@ bayareacc.org
MARRIAGE MINISTRY TEAM VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Our Marriage Ministry events team seeks to encourage and equip couples. If you have a passion to help strengthen marriages and have been married for 10+ years, come be a part of this ministry. Learn more at bayareacc.org/marriageministry.
EMPLOYMENT KIDCARE TEAM MEMBERS Our KidCare team has a need for adults who have a heart for kids. We provide KidCare for all ministries and various events year-round. Want to join our team of paid workers? Email KidCare Coordinator Dax at dax. clinkscale@bayareacc.org.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY ASSISTANT Part-time position; assists with the implementation of our vision and strategy in Children’s Ministry as it pertains to parents, volunteers, potential volunteers and children of our Children’s Ministry environments at Bay Area. This person will work with the Children’s Coordinators to ensure all details are covered for Sunday mornings and other events.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY LARGE GROUP COORDINATOR 29 hours per week. The large group coordinator will oversee our largegroup weekend experience for preschool- and elementary-age kids in Children’s Ministry. This energetic person will have a heart for worship and imparting that passion to our children. We are seeking a highcapacity, creative leader who will train up volunteer worship leaders and on-stage actors for our main weekend message, understanding how to engage children through worship with hand motions, acting techniques and skits. For more info and to apply: bayareacc.org/employment
WOMEN’S MINISTRY WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP CRUISE August 25, 2018
Join us for a five-night cruise from Baltimore to Bermuda on Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas. Balcony rooms book up first. $250 deposit needed. Special guest Easton Worship Leader Rachel Pletts will perform a concert for us on the ship. Excursions and other group activities available. Invite your spouse, daughter, mom or friend to share this special trip with us. Learn more at bayareacc.org/womensevents. Info: Lynn at lriley1137@comcast.net
ONE-DAY WOMEN’S CONFERENCE: EYE TO EYE: TO SEE AND BE SEEN Saturday, 3/10, 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Our lives will change when we see the God who longs to meet us with His love, truth and power. Join us for this day of teaching, fellowship, workshops and lunch together. Choose from six different workshops taught by various Bay Area women. Info & register: bayareacc.org/ register
WOMEN OF LEGACY (55+) Monday, 3/12, 10:30 a.m. - noon Alisha DePriest, a chaplain in Anne Arundel County jails, will share about her call to minister to and share the gospel with incarcerated women.
Monday, 3/26, 10:30 a.m. - noon As we continue to encourage each other to write our story, Lorraine Hiskey will share about her progress writing her Legacy story. Info: Cedulie Sanchez at luisandcedulie@gmail.com
QUILTS FOR KIDS Saturday, 3/17, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. in The Docks Join us as we make quilts for kids together. Bring your sewing machine and we will provide the quilting fabrics. Bring your lunch to eat together. Info: annapolisqfk@gmail.com
GLOBAL MISSIONS GO Take the next step in your walk with Jesus and share God’s love in one of ten locations worldwide. Fill out the GO Form: bayareacc.org/stm
SEND Interested in sending others through prayer or giving? Give to a short term missionary or team at bayareacc.org/ stmgive. For prayer information email michele.rollins@bayareacc.org.
LEARNING COMMUNITIES Learning Communities are intended to strengthen your Biblical knowledge, character and/or ministry skills. They are also an opportunity to get to know others at Bay Area in an environment of learning. Sign up at bayareacc.org/learningcommunities.
COUPLES PRAYER Sundays, 3/11-3/25, 9:30 a.m. in Dock B This is a prayer workshop for couples. Our desire is for you to pray with your spouse, regularly. If you do not pray with him or her, or if you did and stopped, or if you do so intermittently or only before meals, this Learning Community is for you. This threeweek LC is designed to create space and time for communicating with the Lord in your marriage, as husbands and wives, and joined as one before our Heavenly Father.
USING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS IN RETIREMENT Sundays, 3/4-3/25, 11:20 a.m. in Dock B Retired? God didn’t get Moses up to speed until he was 80, so chances are that He’s probably far from done with you! A purposeful life flows from knowing God personally and letting Him unleash your full potential. Want to know your spiritual gifts? Are you applying them to His glory? This general class is specially adapted for retirees or near-retirees, but all are welcome.
PRAYER MINISTRY Jesus lived a life of unceasing prayer that connected Him to the Father. We too long to be devoted to prayer. Our Prayer Ministry comprises individuals dedicated to gathering in prayer for all aspects of Bay Area: our gatherings, communities, pastors, missions and more. Individuals are also available to pray with you on Sunday mornings after each gathering (front and right of the Chapel stage). Info: bayareacc.org/prayer
SERVE LIKE JESUS INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT SERVING AT BAY AREA? Below, you’ll see a list of some of our most immediate serving needs. For a complete list of serving opportunities, and to sign up, go to bayareacc.org/serve. AMBASSADOR TEAM GREETER TEAM AUDIO/VIDEO TEAM CHAIR MINISTRY ESPRESSO BAR TEAM CHILDREN’S WELCOME TEAM CHILDREN’S SET DESIGN TEAM PARKING TEAM PRESCHOOL TEAM SAFETY TEAM WOMEN’S MINISTRY USHER TEAM
MEN’S FELLOWSHIP MEN’S MORNING BIBLE STUDY Tuesdays, 6-7:30 a.m. in room 236 Info: jlradcliffe@hotmail.com
MEN’S EVENING BIBLE STUDIES Sundays, 6-8 p.m. in room 235 This study is geared toward helping men draw closer to Jesus while discussing and discovering God’s answers for the challenges men face at home, work and in society. Info: bob.gregory@bayareacc.org
Thursdays, 7-9 p.m. in room 235 Join Bay Area men to spend time in the Word and prayer, for fellowship and discussion, and for discipleship. Info: sam.logan@gmail.com
MEN’S BREAKFAST
Join us for The Line: God ‘N Grits, a men’s monthly breakfast on Saturday, March 17, from 8-9:30 a.m. in the Auditorium. The Line is an opportunity for men of Bay Area to gather around good food and conversation, and maybe walk out with more than just a full stomach and a few laughs. Register today at bayareacc.org/mensbreakfast. Info: bob.gregory@bayareacc.org
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STUDENT MINISTRY AMPLIFY Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Amplify is our mid-week middle and high school gathering where students can grow deeper in their walk with God through group discipleship. Amplify features games, worship, teaching and gender/grade-specific Community Groups. Students will experience true community and discipleship in a fun environment. Optional dinner at 6 p.m. Info: lauren.gibeault@bayareacc.org
MIDDLE SCHOOL CLUB678 Friday, 3/9, 7-9 p.m. Friday, 4/18, 7-9 p.m. Club678 is our monthly middle school hangout night during the school year. It’s a free, high-energy evening full of activities, games, and prizes. Info: tim.agnolutto@bayareacc.org
MIDDLE SCHOOL ALL-NIGHTER April 27-28 Middle school students are invited to join us for our annual all-nighter. Registration will open on March 18. The cost will be $80. Info: tim.agnolutto@bayareacc.org
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
FINANCIALS Annapolis Campus Operating Budget As of February 22, 2018 New Fiscal Year Began 9/1/17
ANNAPOLIS CAMPUS Fiscal Year Giving Goal
$ 5,185,000
YTD Received YTD Goal YTD Actual vs. Goal
$ 2,594,620 $ 2,605,609 $ (10,989)
EASTON CAMPUS Fiscal Year Giving Goal
$
187,000
YTD Received YTD Goal YTD Actual vs. Goal
$ $ $
126,385 89,904 36,482
ANNAPOLIS CAMPUS OUTSTANDING BUILDING DEBT
$3,179,324 (as of 1/31/18) For weekly financial updates, go to bayareacc.org/financials. Please indicate any designated gifts on the memo line of your check or use the drop-down box online to select your desired giving fund.
MIDDLE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP Victory Jam 2018 is scheduled for June 25-29 and the cost is $375. Registration will open on March 4. Students must submit a $150 non-refundable deposit to secure their place. The remaining balance of $225 will be due between April 15 and May 20. Info: tim.agnolutto@bayareacc.org
COLLEGE MINISTRY YOUNG ADULT MISSIONAL COMMUNITY (AGES 18-25) Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. Missional Communities are a great opportunity for people to connect in community where they are loving God, serving others and growing spiritually together. Info: bryan.mcfarland@bayareacc.org
MISSIONAL COMMUNITY Being connected with others helps us grow in our love for God, for each other, and for our neighbor. You can find out more about Missional Communities at bayareacc.org/ missionalcommunities. 26 GO&MAKE M A R C H
How Can I Participate In The Descendants Project? Envelopes are available at the 3D model in the lobby. Gifts also can be made online at bayareacc.org. Please designate “The Descendatns Project” in the memo of checks. For gifts other than cash, email finance@bayareacc.org. How Can I Continue To Support Bay Area’s Building Funds? GIVING METHODS eCheck: Go to bayareacc.org/give to give online through your checking account through a one-time or recurring donation on My Bay Area. Personal Check: Write “Building Fund” on the memo line and drop it in the offering basket on Sunday or mail the check to Bay Area (884 Chesterfield Road, Annapolis, MD 21401). Bank Check: Process through your bank’s Bill Pay service online for a bank check to be sent to Bay Area. Be sure to note “Building Fund” on the memo line.
WAVE RIDERS PLAY GROUP Tuesday, 3/13, and Wednesday, 3/28 Come check out this family play and support group with fun activities, book clubs and socials that offers a space for parents to share knowledge, resources and experiences. Info: facebook.com/ waveriderplaygroup
SPRING PARENT DEDICATION Saturday, 4/14, 3-4 p.m. Have you committed as parents to raise your children for Jesus? Unlike a child dedication, this special ceremony marks your dedication as parents to instilling Godly character in your children. You have been entrusted with the precious gift of your child’s life, and our Children’s Ministry is here to partner with you as you embark on this discipleship journey as parents. Info: courtney.gregory@bayareacc.org
EASTON CAMPUS HAPPENINGS
MINISTRY PARTNER ORIENTATION Saturday, 3/17, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Ministry Partnership is a commitment to live out our faith together under the mission of making passionate, maturing followers of Jesus. If you consider Bay Area your home church, we would love to have you join us. We will provide lunch, and offer KidCare in most cases upon request. Info: bayareacc.org/register
VISION PREVIEW EVENT Sunday, 3/25, 2-4 p.m. We’re inviting all Bay Area Easton Ministry Partners to a vision event on March 25. Join us as we unveil what we are believing God to do at Bay Area through the exciting vision He has given us for the next two years. Dessert will be served at 2 p.m. and our program will begin at 2:30 p.m.
Whe r e ve r yo u g o,
t a ke GO&MAKE wi th y ou. baya r e a c c .o rg / g o a nd ma ke
RETIRED? So, what are you going to do for an encore? Learn how a God-centered, purpose-driven plan for your encore years will illuminate the path to successful aging and finishing well. Join us for “God’s Plan for Our Encore Years” presented by Phil Burgess. Phil Burgess is an award-winning educator, businessman and author of the book “Reboot! What to do when your career is over but your life isn’t.” Phil is president of The Annapolis Institute and a columnist for “The Capital” where he writes “Bonus Years,” a weekly column on successful aging.
March 21, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Light lunch served. Register by March 18 at bayareacc.org/register
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