The Hub Magazine Issue 16

Seeking Community, Finding Family

by Rachel Bebee

Volunteer Spotlight: Myron Banta

The Power of Prayer The Power of Prayer

Witness and Celebrate the Power of Prayer: Transforming Lives and Communities in West Africa CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH

View the CCC Calendar of Events on the last page FEBRUARY–MARCH 2020 / ISSUE 16

S U N D AY MORNING SERVICES 404 S 108 Ave, Omaha 68154 402.330.3360 | cccomaha.org info@cccomaha.org TRADITIONS 9 AM / Worship Center Timeless hymns and songs of faith led by Pastor Steve Yost and a spirited choir and orchestra ACCESS 9 AM / Gym A simplified worship experience in a relaxed environment ACCESS 10:45 AM / Worship Center Powerful and engaging band-led worship in a relaxed environment

ONLINE 9 & 10:45 AM / cccomaha.tv The 9 AM Traditions service and the 10:45 AM Access service are streamed live online every Sunday

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Publisher | CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH Editor in Chief | RACHEL BEBEE Director of Creative Arts | JONATHAN NORTON Copy Editor | RACHEL BEBEE Lead Graphic Designer | MARIE DUFOUR Contributing Writers: Rachel Bebee, Dan McCann, Jed Logue Contributing Photographers: Peeterv (iStock), Borgogniels (iStock), Thomas Brissiaud (iStock), Stephanie Frenz, Marie Dufour, Rclassenlayouts (iStock), Esther Havens (Lightstock) Contributing Designers: Eric Wendt, Austin Asay, Elizabeth Bartz, Ma_Rish (iStock), Rachel Bebee THE HUB MAGAZINE 404 S 108 Ave | Omaha, NE 68154 402.330.3360 | hub@cccomaha.org cccomaha.org/hub | cccomaha.org

The Hub Magazine is published every two months

by Christ Community Church. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher.

Copyright 2020 Christ Community Church.

All rights reserved.

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As I write this sipping coffee at my desk in my office, I am considering that we are in the doldrums of winter—it’s cold and snowy with the possibility of more snow later this week.

Perhaps you are feeling a bit of cabin fever like I am, hoping for warmer weather, sunshine, and not having to wear seven layers to stay warm when leaving the house. There’s beauty in every season though, we just have to look for it!

In this issue, you’ll read the story of a young woman in Africa who has had a life-changing encounter with God after experiencing very traumatic circumstances. Elizabeth’s life is a testament to God who has relentlessly pursued her. We also share the story of Mike and Katie, a couple who found both relationship with God and a family in their Journey Group.

As always, you can learn more about The Hub Magazine, read past issues, and leave us feedback at cccomaha.org/hub. §

THE HUB MAGAZINE / CCCOMAHA.ORG

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BY DAN McCANN

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Witness & celebrate the power of prayer: transforming lives & communities in West Africa

H

er name was Fatou*, and the grittiness of her reality is something few of us can fathom: abducted off a busy West African street at the age of 15—the victim of a “bride kidnapping”—scurried to the groom’s village, raped, and forced to accept an afflicted marriage. Weeks into the ordeal, Fatou fled her abusive husband but not the darkness of her situation. Pregnant now and desperate to the extreme, she tried on multiple occasions to kill her unborn child and later bought rope at the local market with designs on hanging herself.

The teenager’s emotional wounds were deep and festering. What could possibly begin to heal them?

*For the safety of those involved, the woman pictured is not related to Fatou or Hands of Honor in any way. Fatou's name has also been changed for her protection.

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For the last seventeen years, Becky and her husband, Shawn, have been serving as Alliance missionaries in West Africa. They met as missionary kids (MKs), attending boarding school together in the Ivory Coast. They returned to do an apprenticeship in Gold Kingdom in 2004 and ended up staying there for thirteen years.

“We’ve been living out a calling to walk with the poor,” Becky says.

“Everywhere we work, it’s really in the context of, ‘Okay Lord, where are the marginalized? Where are the vulnerable? Where are the people who need to encounter you where they’re at?ʼ” Shawn’s work in Gold Kingdom included the launching of a sustainable fish farm in S-Town to combat food security issues and providing economic stability.

Becky channeled her gifting for mercy, compassion, and justice

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into the plight of West Africa’s female child laborers.

Through those endeavors, and more recently through their missionary work in Senegal’s Badalo slum, the couple has not only witnessed and joined the struggle of the marginalized and vulnerable, they have witnessed the astounding power of prayer.

After escaping from her abusive husband, Fatou made her way back to the Gold Kingdom capital where a Christian family hired her to assist in their home, a common happening in West Africa where amenities are few and hard manual labor is part of daily life.

But the nightmare of Fatou’s past left her traumatized. She spent much of her day crying, hardly able to perform her duties.

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message...

COLOSSIANS 4:2–3A

Fatou’s employer, a member of a local Alliance church, knew the girl needed intensive help and reached out to the staff of a program she’d heard about at church. The outreach was called Hands of Honor, and one of its founders was Becky.

“We began a preventative, churchbased program,” Becky says. “It’s a safe place in our city.”

She and her Alliance CAMA (Compassion & Mercy Associates) Services team started Hands of Honor in 2014 in partnership with a local Alliance church.

What started with eight girls in one location now has sixty-eight girls enrolled in three locations.

The program provides life-skills training, health and hygiene education, and literacy education.

“The literacy rate for women in Gold Kingdom is thirty-three percent,” Becky says. “We’re teaching them to read and write.”

The girls, ages fifteen to nineteen years old, pray and study God’s word together. Some receive vocational training. All have advocates in the Hands of Honor staff, adults who will speak up for them in situations where they are being mistreated.

Hands of Honor staff connected urgently with Fatou and got her the resources and help she needed.

But more than that, they began to pray for her, and then with her.

What could possibly begin to heal this teenager’s deep and festering emotional wounds? The power of prayer.

“We saw Jesus begin to heal her deep wounds,” Becky says.

It was a joyous day, a few months later, when Fatou put her trust in Jesus. Right away, she asked to take a new name, Elizabeth.

“Jesus had healed her and given her freedom from the past. She wanted a name to express that she was now following Jesus,” Becky said.

Dramatic and ultimately joyful, Fatou’s rescue is just one example of the power of prayer that Becky and Shawn have witnessed.

HANDS OF HONOR PRAYER CARDS In an effort to get people to pray specifically for the girls served by Hands of Honor, Becky and the staff came up with the idea of individual prayer cards. They began distributing the cards at Alliance women’s events, and things started happening.

“From when those cards started being distributed, we saw God

answering,” Becky said. “All these girls we’d been walking with, who were so close to making a decision to follow Christ, finally made that decision.”

That includes one underage teen, a former Muslim, who decided to “follow the Jesus road” and get baptized, but first, she had to call her father for permission.

“She was trying to convert her dad on the phone, saying, ‘Dad, remember how I was such an unhappy child and I’ve always been really bitter? She said, ‘I’m so happy now and I’m at peace for the first time in my life.’ He allowed her to be baptized.”

PRAYING FOR OPEN EYES Becky cites another example of powerful and answered prayer in the very behavior and attitudes of Hands of Honor staff.

“Most of our staff are lay women or pastor’s wives, and, culturally, they didn’t see anything wrong with the idea of child labor or the way that these young girls were treated. My teammate and I realized that we need to pray that our staff would understand the context of injustice and see a biblical perspective of who these girls are in Christ’s eyes because in culture’s eyes, they are called slave girls… We prayed, ‘Lord, open their eyes, help them to see

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these girls through your eyes.’ We prayed this for years,” and sure enough, attitudes changed.

Becky says the staff has “become these mama bears, and they are protective of the girls in their groups…

It’s exciting to see how the Lord has answered our prayers and how our staff is now looking at our girls through a biblical lens, through Christ’s eyes, instead of through culture’s eyes.”

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him from this really shy person to someone on fire for the Lord—to the point that he was actually invited to come back to the village to share these stories.

That’s largely due to prayer and the Spirit’s work in Adama’s life.”

“IT’S JUST GOD’S HAND”: SHAWN’S EXPERIENCE AT THE FISH FARM Shawn believes he’s witnessed the power of prayer at work in the story of Adama, a former Muslim who came to the Lord, was persecuted for his belief, and cast away by his family.

From Hands of Honor and the fish farm to the work Becky and Shawn have been overseeing in Badalo, they say the power of prayer is needed more than ever, another way the congregation at Christ Community Church can continue to support the important work of all CAMA missionaries financed through Alliance Missions (attendees who give to CCC automatically contribute financially to Alliance Missions).

“When I was looking at launching a sustainable AG fish project, I needed a farm hand. A fellow missionary said, ‘What about Adama?’ When I look back, it’s just God’s hand. Adama is an awesome guy, very teachable and smart, super engaged… God transformed

“When we look at prayer— even in the context of praying for laborers or praying for unity among believers—those are the things that are going to help us complete the Great Commission successfully, praying that we can fearlessly make known the

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gospel,” Becky said. “It’s only through the power of prayer that people’s hearts are going to be transformed and eyes are going to be opened. That’s what we’ve seen, from our staff to our girls.”

Shawn adds, “Right thinking leads to right doing, and I firmly believe that prayer puts us into that posture of having right thinking.”

Beyond praying for their work and for CCC’s Gilbert family now serving in Senegal, Becky and Shawn want the congregation to dream with them for what’s next and celebrate what’s been accomplished, to “celebrate the impact our partnership in seeing lives and communities transformed.”

Becky says, “The reason Hands of Honor exists today is because of Christ Community Church. From day one, you all have been so incredibly supportive financially, by praying, by coming and sending teams.

You can claim Hands of Honor as your own through your partnership and encouragement.”

“IT’S ONLY THROUGH THE POWER OF PRAYER THAT PEOPLE’S HEARTS ARE GOING TO BE TRANSFORMED AND EYES ARE GOING TO BE OPENED.”

Her name was Fatou, a child abducted and abused. It is now Elizabeth, and this is the reality of her redemption: Elizabeth delivered a healthy baby boy, and today, a local Christian family is in the process of adopting him.

Witness and celebrate the power of prayer. § Dan McCann is a freelance writer whose work appears in the Omaha World Herald.

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At CCC, our desire is that every person is continually taking steps towards discovering Jesus and growing in their faith. Whether that's joining a group, serving as a volunteer, making the decision to be baptized, or even taking a tour of our campus to feel more at home, we believe there's a next step for you.

To learn more, visit the Next Steps area in the CCC Atrium after Sunday services.

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Seeking Community, Finding Family

by Rachel Bebee

“I

never understood what family was and what it meant because I was so used to being alone. I became the best at hide and seek with God. I would run and push God away as much as I could. I would always ask, ‘Why does it have to be like this?’” On September 29, 2019, Mike Atkins shared these words with the Christ Community Church congregation. Mike’s wife Katie and CCC staff member Jim Ratte were with him on stage. “Son,” Jim asked, “Do you believe that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior and do you commit to following him all your days?” Mike affirmed that he

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did. Buried with his sins, Mike came out of the water raised to new life.

Mike’s early life was difficult. His parents met while his dad was serving in the military in Korea, and then his mom joined her husband in the US. Their marriage was physically and verbally abusive and ended shortly after Mike as born. After the divorce, Mike lived with his mom. He attended church with his mom, but didn't feel connected there. The deep pain from broken family relationships led him to put up walls that

kept God and people out. It felt easier to hide the deep losses, the sadness, and the anger than to deal with the pain. His relationship with his dad, which was severely strained after the divorce, affected how he viewed God, yet God was not through with Mike yet. Mike became close friends with another student in elementary school.

His friend's family invited Mike into their daily life. He would stay with them for days at a time. Through his “adopted” white family, he began to experience unconditional love in his life.

Growing up on her family’s farm near Tecumseh, Nebraska, Katie's early life was different. She learned about Jesus through the Lutheran church her family attended and accepted him as Savior when she was in junior high. A self-described “comfortable” Christian, Katie didn’t understand how to have a thriving relationship with Jesus. She joined Campus Crusade for Christ for several years in college. After moving to Omaha for pharmacy school, a friend invited her to CCC and began to get connected. She tried another church, but ended up returning to CCC. Katie and Mike’s stories intersected on a Wednesday in January 2015 at a local bar. Mike was playing wingman for his friend who was interested in Katie’s best friend. Though neither was interested at first, they saw each other later that week at the same place.

Mike’s friend encouraged him to ask Katie on a date. Katie said yes and the two started dating, but their early relationship was difficult. Both had been wounded in past relationships.

Although Mike wasn’t yet a Christian, Katie made it clear that he would need to attend church with her if he wanted to date her. She hoped that her faith would help Mike accept Jesus as Savior.

Despite his initial reluctance about going to church, Mike knew he needed to start attending church again. They slowly started to get connected.

Life wasn't easy for Mike and Katie during this time. Rotations for pharmacy school sent Katie away for a year.

Serious fights ended in frustration with each other. Finally, Mike’s dad passed away. Though his relationship with his dad was distant, Mike still felt the loss.

He was angry with God, but tried to keep his emotions under wraps.

Mike and Katie continued dating and kept coming to CCC. They got engaged and participated in CCC’s marriage class. They were married in October 2017. Though he had not yet surrendered his life to Jesus, Katie felt like a change was coming in Mike's life.

After moving into their first house, Mike noticed that one of his coworkers lived in the neighborhood. Upon investigating, he found out that it was Glen Farmer and his wife Susan, who were members at CCC. The Farmers invited them to a BBQ their Journey Group was holding. Mike and Katie had been considering joining a Journey Group for young adults, but the intergenerational group welcomed them warmly.

Immediately the group felt like family.

Finding a community where questions and doubts were okay was the turning point for Mike. One night, he asked a question of the group. Jim Ratte asked him a question in return. Something inside Mike broke. The childhood pain that he had stuffed finally spilled out.

In that moment, he found acceptance and grace as the group prayed for him.

This past fall, Mike and Katie joined Foundations, CCC’s membership class.

During discussion one morning, Mike realized that he hadn’t made the decision to follow Jesus. He didn’t want to be the ruler of his life anymore— he wanted to follow Jesus. So on September 29, 2019, Mike was baptized at CCC! He publicly declared that Jesus was king of his life. The celebration was extra special because Katie was also baptized the same day.

Since trusting Jesus and joining a community, Mike and Katie have experienced profound transformation. Their marriage is growing stronger. Knowing Jesus has brought peace into their lives that they never expected. Mike shared, “I think the thing that’s crazy about all of this, for a non-believer to get baptized and to start believing, looking back at your life and you see all the things that’s happened—it’s crazy to say this—but God has always been by my side. Having a family, my white “adopted” family, putting us in our neighborhood with Glen and Susan... it’s crazy how it all intersects.” No matter what Mike and Katie face in the future, they rest assured that God is working in their lives for their good and his glory. § Rachel Bebee is the Editor in Chief of The Hub Magazine and the Project Coordinator for the Creative/Communications Team at Christ Community Church

▲ Mike & Katie getting baptized by Jim Ratte & Glen Farmer at CCC on September 29, 2019

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

MYRO N BANTA

WIFE: Emily

CHILDREN: Caleb & Ryan PROFESSION: Financial Sales Manager

ORIGINS: Grew up in Wyoming (God's country) and moved to Nebraska after college

ENJOYS: My wife and kids, playing

on our property, motorcycles, traveling to the mountains, and National Parks

The Christ Community Church Volunteer Spotlight is a chance to get to know a volunteer you might see around the church building. Each issue, we'll feature a volunteer, share a little bit about their life, how they got to CCC, and something you may not know about them. This issue features Myron Banta, who serves as part of Guest Services.

WHAT AREA DO YOU SERVE? I serve as an usher.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SERVING? Over fifteen years.

HOW DID YOU GET TO CCC? I drove!!! I was looking for a church and CCC just happened to be across the creek from my house, so I gave it a try and here I am all these years later.

WHY DID YOU BEGIN SERVING AT CCC? I felt like I needed to get connected and they had a call from the stage many years ago. I felt that was a great place for me and my skill set.

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WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT SERVING? My favorite thing is being part of a great team that gets to welcome people as they come into CCC for the first time or the 100th time.

IF YOU COULD ENCOURAGE SOMEONE TO SERVE, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM? I've really enjoyed my time serving as an usher and I would encourage everyone to use their gifts to help out where they can. I might be biased, but you won't find a better team to serve with on Sundays—the usher team! See you next Sunday as a new usher!

There's always room for one more. cccomaha.org/dna THE HUB MAGAZINE / CCCOMAHA.ORG

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MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES GUEST INFO No matter where you come from or whatever your past, you can join us in living a life beyond belief. We hope that you will join us at Christ Community Church for one of our weekend worship services. Whoever you are, and regardless of your past, CCC is a place for you to experience life transformation.

If you're looking for more info about CCC, visit cccomaha.org/new or stop by Next Steps in the Atrium and pick up a welcome packet. A list of events, ministries, staff, and more are also available on the website.

Christ Community Church 404 S 108 Ave, Omaha, NE 68154 402.330.3360 / info@cccomaha.org cccomaha.org

KIDS MINISTRY cccomaha.org/kids Kids@cccomaha.org

Birth through Grade 5 / Sundays / 9 & 10:45 AM Family Is Primary Parents have the incredible responsibility of impressing a love for God on the hearts of their children (Deuteronomy 6:5–7). These impressions best occur as a natural overflow from parents seeking to love the Lord with their own hearts, souls, and strengths.

Sunday Morning Children join a group of kids their age or grade level. Kids birth through preschool may stay for two services, while students kindergarten through grade 5 attend one service only. This fosters relationships with other kids and allows them to attend worship with parents during the other hour.

American Heritage Girls Karyn, KarynStruck@gmail.com A Christian scouting organization for girls K–12th grade. Building women of integrity through service to God, family, community, and country.

Mondays / 6:30–8 PM Trail Life USA Chris, ChrisB@cccomaha.org A Christian scouting organization for boys K–12th grade. Scouting, leadership, and adventure.

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CCC Online cccomaha.tv Services streamed live online every Sunday at 9 & 10:45 AM

Baby Dedications Bryant, BryantB@cccomaha.org Baby Dedications are held quarterly.

For more info or to sign up, contact Bryant or visit cccomaha.org/baby.

KIDS CLUBS

cccomaha.org/kids Kids@cccomaha.org Wednesdays / 6:30–8 PM Kids will learn about God through Bible memorization, lessons, games, crafts, and activities. Kids Clubs meet September through April and are funded through annual dues.

Awana / Cubbies (Ages 3–4) Cubbies communicates basic truths about God, Jesus, salvation, and the Bible through Scripture memorization, handbook lessons, awards, games, and activities.

Awana / Sparks (Grades K–2) Sparks meet in small groups to focus on Scripture memorization. In large group, they experience upbeat music, Bible teaching and instruction, and age-appropriate games.

Boys & Girls Clubs (Grades 3–5) Kids gather in small groups where life-long friendships can begin.

A club meeting is divided into three segments: Bible teaching, ageappropriate crafts or team games, and small group time. Each Bible lesson is accompanied by a Scripture memory verse.

Guest Services Staff Contact Bethany Simm, Director of Events and Guest Experience BethanyS@cccomaha.org

STUDENT MINISTRY cccomaha.org/msm cccomaha.org/hsm

Elizabeth, ElizabethB@cccomaha.org Student Ministry exists to help students know Jesus every day and live their lives for him at home, at school, and in the community.

Large Group Gatherings Gather on Sundays for music, teaching, games, discussions, friendship, and good food in the café (year-round).

Grades 6–8 / Sunday Mornings at the Student Center / 10:45 AM Grades 9–12 / Sunday Nights at the Student Center / 6–8 PM

Student Journey Groups Ask honest questions, study Scripture, be invested in by a Christfollowing adult, and share life with a small group as you develop deep, lasting friendships.

August–April / Students may join a group any time during the year.

Grades 6–8 / Sundays / 6–8 PM Atrium Grades 9–12 / Sundays / 6–8 PM Student Center Sunday Mornings / 9 & 10:45 AM Worship Center & Gym To help students develop deep faith and a greater sense of community, we encourage them to serve and worship alongside Christians of different ages and backgrounds.

MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES

Student Serving Opportunities Opportunities to serve can be found online at cccomaha.org/hsm.

MENʼS MINISTRY

cccomaha.org/men Reid, ReidB@cccomaha.org

Events and Retreats Visit cccomaha.org/events to discover the life-changing events, trips, and retreats offered by Student Ministry.

Increasing Kingdom impact by engaging, equipping, and encouraging men in godly manhood. Men go all-in through groups, Bible studies, and serving.

COLLEGE MINISTRY

Council Bluffs Group Dave, Music65Man@gmail.com Steve, sirvin@frontiernet.net

cccomaha.org/college Glenn, GlennL@cccomaha.org 8:08 is a community of college-age students (18–24) committed to loving God, each other, and the city.

Whether you’re walking with Jesus or just have questions about who God is, get connected in the 8:08 College Community.

Thursdays / 8:08 PM / Student Center Instagram: 808CCC Facebook: 808CCC

CHURCH RESIDENCY cccresidency.org Emily, EBanta@cccomaha.org Host Homes cccresidency.org/hosthome We have the exciting opportunity to train up and send out leaders through our residency program. One aspect of this is providing a positive, healthy place for a resident to live through our Host Home program. Apply to be a host at the link above.

Become a Resident cccresidency.org/apply The residency combines leadership training, ministry experience, and graduate-level academics. For more info and to apply, visit the website.

Support the Residents cccresidency.org/support Each month, residents raise their own financial support. The church matches donations up to $400 per month per resident. If you would like to partner with the church in supporting a resident, give online.

Discuss and study the Bible together over coffee.

Tuesdays / 6–7:30 AM / Panera / 3617 Denmark Dr, Council Bluffs, IA Journey Men Marc, MarcM@cccomaha.org

WOMENʼS MINISTRY cccomaha.org/women

Mykaila, MykailaN@cccomaha.org Women's Ministry offers groups, studies, and events to help women develop their relationship with Jesus and others.

Women's Bible Studies cccomaha.org/wbs Mykaila, MykailaN@cccomaha.org Classes connect women of all ages and life stages.

Register at cccomaha.org/wbs MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) cccomaha.org/mops ChristCommunityMOPS@gmail.com

Helping men connect with other men through discussion-based learning and teaching. Begin the journey at any time.

Connect with a community of women to embrace and encourage one another in the journey of motherhood.

MOPS is for moms of kids ages birth through kindergarten.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / E240

Register at cccomaha.org/mops

Men of God Jim, JimR@cccomaha.org, 402.290.1608

Prayer Shawl Ministry

An ongoing study group for those who desire to learn, love, live, and lead as men of God. The topic changes, but not the authentic relationships that will grow from the experiences shared in large and small group formats. Led by pastors Mark Ashton and Jim Ratte.

Fridays / 6:15–7:30 AM / Student Center Radical Mentoring Randy / randy.esterling@cgb.com A small group for young men facilitated by a more mature Christian man. Learn how to live a life centered on God. For more info and to apply, contact Randy.

Single Dads Group Chad / chadclauser@gmail.com A positive environment for single dads to grow alongside one another.

Beth Siemens, bdsiemens@hotmail.com

Do you knit or crochet? The Prayer Shawl Ministry creates shawls and prays for the needs of others. Those new to knitting or crocheting are welcome!

Thursdays / 1–2:30 PM / Prayer Room

YOUNG ADULTS

Alex, AlexE@cccomaha.org McKenzie, McKenzieJ@cccomaha.org Caleb, CalebB@cccomaha.org A network of small to mid-sized groups comprised of people in their twenties and thirties, both single and married.

Young Adults Midsize Group Dive into Scripture and connect with other young adults.

Sundays / 9 AM / Student Center

Galvanized Chris / cawyatt88@gmail.com Dave / pinosdave@gmail.com A monthly car show and gathering for car enthusiasts.

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MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES DEAF MINISTRY

cccomaha.org/deaf-ministry CCCDeafMinistry@gmail.com Deaf Ministry exists to help Deaf people understand Jesus so they can accept him as Savior and grow in relationship with him.

Interpreted Service / 10:45 AM / Worship Center / Front of Section 104 Deaf Class / 9 AM / C116 Deaf Men’s Bible Study / Wednesdays / 6:30–8:30 PM / C127 Deaf Women’s Bible Study / Thursdays / 6:30–8:30 PM / The Porch, P538 Do you need an interpreter or are you interested in learning ASL? Contact Jan / janohls@cox.net

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS International Friendship Group Mark, MarkCarlson51@gmail.com Building community and discovering Jesus with friends from around the world. This international-focused group includes prayer, Bible discussion, and sharing life.

Sundays / 10:45 AM / D226 English Conversation Class CCC.ConversationClass@gmail.com Reaching the international community at UNMC & UNO. Looking for teachers for conversational lessons with one–three students. Classes run September–April.

Wednesdays / 6:30–8 PM / The Porch

GROUPS

cccomaha.org/groups Deb / DebB@cccomaha.org WHY JOIN A GROUP? Develop friendships with others A smaller group of people gives you the opportunity to form genuine friendships and care for others in times of need.

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Grow in your relationship with God The smaller setting allows you to dig deeper into Scripture and ask questions in a discussion-based format.

Interact with and learn from others.

Make an impact for the Kingdom Make a difference by serving together in the city or participating in CCC’s partnerships around the world.

HOW DO I JOIN A GROUP? Groups are available on Sunday morning during services or in neighborhoods throughout the week.

Visit the Next Steps booth in the Atrium on Sundays / 9 & 10:45 AM Meet staff and volunteers who will help you find a group that's right for you.

Visit the online Journey Group Locator Search for groups in your area based on the type of group, meeting day, and time at cccomaha.org/groups.

MIDSIZE GROUPS Ongoing groups on Sundays Dawn, DawnG@cccomaha.org These team-led groups are usually affinity or life-stage based. Groups are typically 25–50 people and include Bible study, application, and fellowship.

Sundays / 7:45, 9 & 10:45 AM / Visit the Info Center for class details.

Dayspring / 7:45 AM / C117 Cross-generational class with challenging teaching, ministry projects, missionary support, and care groups.

Scripture: Living It Out / 9 AM / I-188 Cross-generational group focusing on Bible study, friendship, life application, and growing in relationship with Jesus.

Real Marriage / 9 AM / C217 This ongoing group is for any couple to strengthen and enrich their relationship. Led by Bill and Teri Meier.

Message Series Journey Group 9 AM in C117 or 10:45 AM in C217 Join in the discussion of the Sunday message series. For singles or couples of any age.

BOOMERS & BEYOND cccomaha.org/boomers-seniors

Paul Gedden, 402.938.1574, PaulG@cccomaha.org SUNDAY MORNINGS

Kingdom Builders / 9 AM / C220 Boomers and up join for prayer, fellowship, biblical teaching, and learning the Word together.

Ambassadors / 10:30 AM / D127 Caring and praying seniors focus on strong biblical teaching with love for Christ, missionaries, and our nation.

Ecclesia / 10:30 AM / D126 Seniors begin with worship and refreshments, then study Scripture and have time for discussion.

Spiritually Advancing, Linked Together (SALT) / 10:30 AM / C117 Boomers and seniors are welcome for fellowship, prayer, study of God’s Word, and class socials.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES Sue Beed, 402.938.1570, SueB@cccomaha.org Senior Lunch & Fellowship at CCC First Tuesday of the month 11:30 AM / $6 Seniors Breakfast Second Tuesday of the month 8:30 AM / Village Inn, 138th & Maple Super Adults at CCC Third Tuesday of the month 9:30 AM / $6 / Coffee over fellowship, a program featuring a guest speaker, and a delicious meal.

Monthly Senior Server Newsletter cccomaha.org/seniorserver Features entries, events, stories, and more. To get a copy, pick it up at the Boomers & Beyond desk, visit the website, or contact Sue Beed.

Stamps Ministry Fridays / 8–11 AM / D127 / Come join in the work and fellowship.

MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES MARRIAGE

Marriage Matters Planning on engagement or marriage in the next year? Learn how to have a healthy marriage. Marriage Matters is a six-week class offered throughout the year.

The Care Network is a multi-disciplinary team of caregivers who are passionate about providing an environment and relationships to help people heal and grow. Developed by pastors, trained counselors, and professional licensed counselors, the Care Network is committed to helping people find healing and wholeness amidst the challenges of life.

Wedding Date 2020 June–Aug 2020 Sept–Nov 2021 Jan–May

Professional Counseling citycarecounseling.org CityCare Counseling, 402.916.9421, info@citycarecounseling.org

cccomaha.org/events Sue, SueB@cccomaha.org

Class Date 2020 Feb–March 2020 May–June 2020 Sept–Oct

Real Marriage / 9 AM / C217 This ongoing group is for any couple to strengthen and enrich their relationship. Led by Bill and Teri Meier.

SHORT-TERM MISSIONS

cccomaha.org/stm Craig, CraigW@cccomaha.org A catalyst for long-term change and an informed global perspective, short-term mission trips utilize the skills and interests of those willing to be used by God. Teams receive pretrip training on topics from raising support to cultural differences.

Interested in going on a short-term missions trip or supporting a current short-term team? Read about upcoming trips, donate, or submit an application to join a short-term team at the link above.

Upcoming Trips Peru / June 2020 El Dorado / October 2020 Gold Kingdom / January 2021 Senegal / February 2021 Miami / February 2021 For more info and to apply, visit cccomaha.org/stm

CityCare Counseling exists to provide effective professional counseling for those who are seeking excellent care with a distinctly Christian perspective.

Pastoral Counseling Sue Beed, 402.938.1570, SueB@cccomaha.org Services provided by pastoral staff and pastoral counselors trained to provide biblical advice or spiritual counsel to those in need. Financial counseling is also available.

Healing Prayer Sue Beed, 402.938.1570, SueB@cccomaha.org Immanuel Prayer is practical training in deepening your intimacy with God so relational barriers and painful life experiences can be resolved.

Formational Prayer creates an environment where people find relief from emotional pain through a personal encounter with God. Oil Change Ministry The ministry seeks to serve those in need with oil changes and minor car repairs. For more info, contact CCC at 402.330.3360.

First and third Saturdays of the month / 8–11 AM

CARE NETWORK

Benevolence 402.330.3360

Everyone has defining moments in life—difficult circumstances, relational pain, transitional seasons. How we respond during these has a direct impact on our futures and the futures of those around us.

Serves those in need of temporary assistance by distributing designated funds and groceries as an expression of God’s love. For more info, contact CCC at 402.330.3360.

cccomaha.org/care

Silver Tsunami Ministry Paul Gedden, 402.938.1574, PaulG@cccomaha.org Ministry to the elderly, the infirm, those with dementia, the sick, and the dying. Prepares people for relationship-building through weekly visits, caring, listening, and sharing the gospel.

For more info, visit cccomaha.org/care Stephen Ministers Paul Gedden, 402.938.1574, PaulG@cccomaha.org People trained to provide confidential, one-on-one care to those experiencing difficulty in life such as divorce, job loss, aging, spiritual crisis, chronic or terminal illness, relocation, or separation due to military deployment.

To receive care or to sign up to serve as a Stephen Minister, visit cccomaha.org/care

SPIRITUAL FORMATION

cccomaha.org/formation Wendell Nelson, 402.938.1573, WendellN@cccomaha.org The ongoing transformation of your life through experiential discovery.

Spiritual Direction A monthly one-on-one meeting to help you notice and savor God’s presence in your life and stimulate ongoing growth; nurturing choices that consistently delight God.

RENEWAL GROUPS

cccomaha.org/renewal Jessica Hawley, 402.938.1563, JessicaH@cccomaha.org Experience renewal in your life by connecting with trained volunteers, professional counselors, and others experiencing similar circumstances. All groups meet at Christ Community Church.

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MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES

ADDICTIONS Jessica Hawley / 402.938.1563 / JessicaH@cccomaha.org

GRIEF SHARE Deb Jones / 402.658.0767 / asalwaysdebjones@gmail.com

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental lllness) John & Karen Wagner / 402.932.7229

Battling addictions to alcohol and other drugs can cause instability, guilt, and shame in a person’s life and the lives of those around them. Join others who have faced the same challenges in a non-judgmental environment to tear down the walls that keep us from living a life filled with forgiveness and freedom through Jesus.

If you have lost a loved one (recent or in the past), and have yet to complete your journey from mourning to joy, let the Grief Share team introduce you to compassionate ways of discovering your new normal and God’s purpose beyond your loss.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room E132

HANNAH’S PRAYER (Support for Infertility) Diane Newcomer / dewswim@aol.com

This family-to-family education program is for family members of individuals with severe mental illness (schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, et cetera). Sessions include current info about mental illness, medications, evidence-based treatments to promote recovery, community resources, and supportive strategies. Class size is limited, so registration is required.

DIVORCE CARE Mary Lou Rodgers / MaryLRodgers@yahoo.com Separation and divorce can be the most painful and stressful experience you face. It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions. This group meets weekly to help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room C117 FRESH HOPE Jessica Hawley / 402.938.1563 / JessicaH@cccomaha.org This group provides a safe setting for people with mood disorders and their family and friends. Find joy and purpose by sharing insights, progress, setbacks, and encouragement.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room D127 Sanctuary for Suicide Loss (For adults 18+) Julie Junker / 402.819.9059 / VernJulie@cox.net For adults who have lost a friend or family member to suicide. Our goal is to provide adults with a safe place to talk about the intense and unique feelings of a suicide loss with peers who understand like no one else— through their own experience.

Last Thursday of the month / 6:30 PM / Room C220 If you need help or are in crisis, call 1.800.273.8255 or text TALK to 741741 (7:30 AM–11:30 PM).

Tuesdays / 6:30 PM / Room I-188

A community of married women experiencing primary or secondary infertility who provide support and encouragement.

First & Third Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room D126 HOPE AFTER BETRAYAL Nancy Hanson / 308.631.1200 / jbonanny@hotmail.com When the dream of the ideal relationship, marriage, or family has been shattered, hope is needed to restore and become whole again.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room G262 LIGHTHOUSE Connor Dillard / 612.710.9367 / Connor_Dillard@yahoo.com A safe space for followers, seekers, and doubters to approach nonstraight sexuality from a Christcentered, biblical perspective.

Thursdays / 6 PM / Room C118 MEN OF INTEGRITY findintegrity.com Dean Fajen / 402.677.2040 / DeanFajen@outlook.com This group helps men address lust in a safe, supportive, grace-filled environment that promotes honesty with self, others, and God. Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room S302 in the Student Center

Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room C118 NAMI SUPPORT GROUP MJ Zaremba / 402.980.1532 / mjpotandladle@gmail.com This group helps families understand & support individuals with mental illness.

First & Third Tuesdays / 7 PM / E148 (Library) RELATIONSHIPS 101 Marc Montanye / MarcM@cccomaha.org Helps men build and maintain healthy, life-giving relationships. Explore issues such as boundaries, self-esteem, communication, and healing.

Thursdays / 7 PM / Room E132 RESTORED HEARTS Gloria Brohimer / 402.968.0395 / gloryb2u@cox.net This group comes alongside women with a history of sexual abuse, assisting them with their healing journey.

Engage with God and others in a safe environment to find hope and the ability to move into a more meaningful life. Registration is required.

Tuesdays / 6:30 PM / Room P538 in the Porch THE CHRISTIAN IN COMPLETE ARMOR Marc Montanye / MarcM@cccomaha.org Men, do you feel like you’re in a battle at home, work, & in life? If so, you’re invited to explore practical ways to achieve total victory in those areas and explore a new way of looking at what it means to be a Christian in complete armor.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / Room F252 20

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2020 / ISSUE 16

Join Christ Community Church's Facebook Group at facebook.com/groups/cccomaha

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MISSIONS WEEK / March 8–15 Join the mission to take the good news about Jesus (best news ever) to the people in this world who have never heard (unreached people).

View the schedule of events at cccomaha.org/missionsweek

THE ART OF GOD / March 22–April 5 A three-week series that will celebrate the unique ways God uses the arts to communicate his powerful message of hope and redemption in the midst of a deeply-broken world.

EASTER: THE ART OF THE RESURRECTION April 11 & 12

Throughout the Old Testament of the Bible, we read of prophecy after prophecy and event after event that led to the culmination of Jesus, the cross, and the resurrection. This wasn’t random—it was artfully crafted and executed.

CALLING ALL CREATIVES!

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Are you an artist?

Submit your work

The church needs you!

During March, we will highlight different aspects of the artistry of God in a threeweek series leading up to Easter weekend. March 29 will focus on visual arts.

Submit one of your works to be displayed in a special art gallery in the Atrium.

Please submit an example of your artwork online at cccomaha.org/creative.

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2020 / ISSUE 16

Not a visual artist?

We have opportunities to engage your artistic gifts throughout the year.

Whether you write, dance, film, act, or play an instrument, we'd love to know who you are and what you do so we can work together to creatively communicate the gospel of Jesus.

For more information, visit cccomaha.org/creative.

CCC CALE NDAR | SPRI NG 2020 Visit cccomaha.org/events for additional information, to register for an event, or to purchase tickets.

Meet Mark / February 9 / 12 PM / D127 / Lunch and Q&A with Lead Minister Mark Ashton for new attenders Elder Prayer / February 12 / 6:45–7:45 PM / CCC Student Center West / All are welcome to join the CCC elders in prayer / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/events Annual Gathering / February 16 / 6 PM / Location / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/events **Thrive / February 21–22 / For more info and to register, visit thethrivegathering.com.

Limited space remaining.

Missions Week / March 8–15 / For more info and a list of events, visit cccomaha.org/missionsweek Elder Prayer / March 11 / 6:45–7:45 PM / CCC Student Center West / All are welcome to join the CCC elders in prayer / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/events Meet Mark / March 15 / 12 PM / D127 / Lunch and Q&A with Lead Minister Mark Ashton for new attenders

No Kids Clubs / March 18

Special Guest Roddy Chong / March 22 / 9 & 10:45 AM / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/events *Baby Dedications / March 29 / Required pre-dedication class on March 22 / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/baby Good Friday Service / April 10 / 7 PM / Worship Center / For more info, visit easteratccc.com

Easter Services / Saturday, April 11 / 4 & 6 PM / For more info, visit easteratccc.com

Easter Services / Sunday, April 12 / 7, 9 & 10:45 AM / For more info, visit easteratccc.com *Foundations Class / April 19–May 17 / 9 AM / Room C227 / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/foundations. *Free event but registration is required

**Paid/ticketed event and registration is required THE HUB MAGAZINE / CCCOMAHA.ORG

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MARCH 8–15, 2020

Join us for Missions Week as we are on mission through the power of prayer.

THIS YEAR'S SPEAKERS

Craig Walter

Shawn & Becky

Dr. Tim Meier

CCCOMAHA.ORG/MISSIONSWEEK