Gateway Life | February 2017

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Trusting God when He hasn,t answered your prayers.

11

Why do trials and suffering happen?

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How your strengths (and weaknesses) affect your marriage.

FEBRUARY 2017 16

The funniest outreach ever.

CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2017 8 PULSE 3

WELCOME 2

11 ASK A PASTOR PASTOR MARCUS BRECHEEN ANSWERS WHY TRIALS AND SUFFERING HAPPEN.

16 LAUGH! THE FUNNIEST OUTREACH EVER.

ACTIVITIES 22

12 FINDING EMPATHY HOW YOUR STRENGTHS (AND WEAKNESSES) AFFECT YOUR MARRIAGE.

THE INTERSECTION 18

PROFILE CHAD SYKES 24

SINGLE SEASON TRUSTING GOD WHEN HE HASN’T ANSWERED YOUR PRAYERS.

15 SONG STORY BRANDAN BUSTAMANTE, AARON CRIDER, REBECCA HART, AND ANDREW MORRIS’S “MY HEART IS YOURS”

ANNOUNCEMENTS 19

READ GATEWAY LIFE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE AT GATEWAYLIFEMAG.COM.

Welcome

WELCOME to GATEWAY LIFE when I wear my marriage-guy hat and get ready for a big Valentine’s Day weekend.

Karen and I have hosted a marriage seminar at Gateway since the church began. As Gateway has grown, so has the seminar, now known as the XO Marriage Conference, as well as our MarriageToday ministry. This year, we will have more than 6,000 people join us for this conference at all of our Gateway campuses throughout the THIS IS THE TIME OF YEAR

Metroplex along with more than 500 churches simulcasting the live event across America and around the world.

So many marriages will be strengthened and saved that weekend, and it will be by God’s grace and power. Of course, there might be some people reading this who are single, divorced, or in a painful marriage. Karen and I know what it’s like to be in a painful and hopeless marriage because that’s how ours was for years. But our testimony is that anything is possible when we put our faith in God and not in people.

I’m excited about this issue of Gateway Life because there are several helpful articles about relationships. I’m partial to one in particular, which was adapted from the book I co-wrote with Pastor Allan Kelsey, Strengths-Based Marriage (page 12). If you’ve ever been through a difficult season or if you’re in one now, you’ll be encouraged by Pastor Marcus Brecheen’s “Ask a Pastor” article (page 11), and you’ll be inspired by the article about what to do while

waiting for the right relationship to come along (page 8).

Whether you’re single or married, I want to encourage you to renew your focus on the Lord and put your trust and hope in Him. Put your eyes on God! Pray and believe that He loves you and nothing is impossible for Him. As you do this it will change you on the inside, and you will also see changes around you as you invite God into your circumstances.

I pray you have a wonderful February! God bless you!

Jimmy Evans Lead Apostolic Senior Pastor

What is your favorite Valentine's Day candy?

Turtles. All Texans know what they are.

gateway life gatewaylifemag.com

photography Adam Fish, Staff Photographer

Thomas Miller, Senior Pastoral Oversight Lawrence Swicegood, Editor-in-Chief

art Shane Dennehey, Creative Director Tim Lautensack, Art Director/Designer Justin Miller, Art Director/Designer Katrina Sirmon, Production Designer Jules Oravetz, Production Designer David Phillips, Print Coordinator

project management Tracey Schwellinger Snickers and editorial Reese's.

Stacy Burnett, Managing Editor Daniel Hopkins, Senior Writer/Editor Katie Smith, Staff Writer/Editor Sydnie Shreffler, Staff Writer/Editor Georgette Shuler, Copy Editor

Chewy SweeTarts.

OUR VISION is to see people saved, healed, set free, discipled, equipped, empowered, and serving.

OUR MISSION is to help each person at Gateway BELIEVE in Jesus, BELONG to family, BECOME a follower, and BUILD God’s kingdom.

For Gateway’s complete mission statement, visit mission.gatewaypeople.com.

2 FEBRUARY 2017

PULSE Our mission is to help each person at Gateway believe in Jesus, belong to family, become a follower, and build God’s Kingdom.

IN RESPONSE TO GATEWAY’S 2017 DEVOTIONAL CREATED TO BE

WOW! I REALLY NEEDED THIS!

I’m in the middle of such a season of doubt—what I call a crisis of belief. I have walked with the Lord for many years, and never thought I would ever doubt Him, but being honest with Him and confessing to Him where I am has really been helpful.

Bonita Joyce Wright | via Facebook

MEANWHILE AT

GATEWAY

It took one cast member 150 hours to create the Dory costume for Chasing Lights.

• Across all campuses, 46,710 people attended the 11 performances of Chasing Lights,

and there were 9,877 online views.† • 37,778 people attended our annual Christmas Candlelight Services across all campuses.

There were 8,265 online views.† • There were 11,248 online views† of Gateway’s First Conference on Sunday night. • In the past 7 years, there have been 67,483 online views† of our annual First Conference. • 46,000 Created to Be devotionals were printed and distributed across all Gateway campuses. • 17 Gateway pastors contributed to the devotional. gatewaypeople.tv

†

GATEWAYPEOPLE All responses taken from Gateway Church social media. Send us your story, testimony, or feedback on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or email us at life@gatewaypeople.com.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 3

Water baptism at the Dallas Campus.

IN RESPONSE TO “MARKETPLACE MINISTRY” IN JANUARY’S GATEWAY LIFE

“This article was EXCEPTIONALLY PRACTICAL and provided me with a true reminder that where I am from a business perspective is my ministry.”

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8

9

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Robert Smullin | via email CORRECTION: In “Marketplace Ministry” we mistakenly wrote “we’re all children of God.” We’re all loved by God and created

in His image, but only believers are children of God. (John 1:10–13; Romans 8:14–17)

TAMMY RUIZ “I come here to the Gateway Café on Saturdays to draw.

It’s my weekend activity because I don’t have time to do it during the week. I work full time as a tool designer, and I’m taking classes at Tarrant County College to complete my degree. Once I do that I’ll have my engineering license and earn a higher salary. So drawing is just a hobby. I’ve never taken any art classes, but I have a lot of artist friends who have given me tips and tricks. My family is very supportive too. They gave me this pencil set as a Christmas gift. I like to come here and draw because it’s a peaceful place to just relax and be creative.”

4 FEBRUARY 2017

“MY PRAYER WRITTEN OUT ON TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL: I believe in You, Jesus. Please help my unbelief. I choose to have faith over doubt. I will remember to reflect on all the things You have done in my life and be filled with gratitude. I know You are good and compassionate. I am trusting You again today because You have been, You are, and You will be faithful. I have You in my heart, Your hand in mine, Your feet walking beside me, Your arms around me, and I know You have my back. I pray I remember these truths, always.”

PUL SE

IN RESPONSE TO GATEWAY’S 2017 DEVOTIONAL CREATED TO BE

SHLMON MCSHAN “Since I was a little kid, I’ve wanted to be a veterinarian. I just like animals. When I was little, we’d go to my great grandma’s house in the country in Arkansas, and I’d see possums, porcupines, and snakes. I was never afraid of any of them. Right now, I work at the Amazon Fulfillment Center. I work four 10-hour shifts making sure the orders we send out are correct. It’s not a hard job and after a while I get bored. The biggest thing holding me back from reaching my dream is me. It’s just a matter of figuring out how to get started.”

Misty Gilbert | via Facebook

“My husband and I are doing this devotional together, and it’s truly a blessing!

I AM SO ” THANKFUL. Julianne Shivers | via Facebook

RICHARD HANDLOFF “If I could pass down one thing to my kids, it would be humility. It took me a long time to learn, and I’m still learning it. I learned the most about humility when we got married. I thought I was doing well because I was in a tight-knit community. Then when you get married, by definition, you’re in a tighter community than you were in before. So when we got married, all of a sudden all this junk started coming up. That was a long time ago and yesterday was our eight-year anniversary. Do you know what the number eight means? New beginnings!

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PUL SE

Q

WHEN DID YOUR GATEWAY GROUP MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE?

“

I

A

was serving with the Men’s Brigade, and we were helping a woman move when she said it was hard for her to believe a man would do something for her and not want anything in return. It confirmed that what we are doing makes a difference. That moment now drives me to make a difference, be accountable, and show other men how to be leaders.”

“

DAVID FLETCHER

M

y husband and I were going through a really rough time financially a while ago, but my women’s group loved us so much during that time. They brought us food, paid for our rent a couple of times, and made sure we could have a great Christmas for the kids. This amazing group of women really made me and my husband feel like family, and I will be forever grateful!”

LETICIA ROTH

“When my husband and I were newlyweds, our marriage group helped us understand and find ourselves in marriage so that God could use us and move in us! Thanks to their sharing, we have found freedom in our marriage, and God has mended what was broken even before we could realize it was. We’re so very thankful.”

VERONICA JANNETTE SIMMONS “

M

y husband, Stuart, and I struggled to have children. After three miscarriages, we were blessed with a beautiful baby boy. Then we struggled to get pregnant again. After finding out I was pregnant with another boy, we learned (at 19 weeks) that my body was getting ready for labor.

We immediately leaned on the group that had walked with us through such difficult times before.

Our group leaders were by our side that day, Bibles in hand, praying. Everyone rallied around us. They brought us meals and money for groceries. There were even people who had joined the group that I had never met who offered to drive me to the doctor because I had to go weekly. They loved us so deeply and held our hands throughout the entire time. And we were all able to celebrate the miracle birth of our second beautiful healthy baby boy!”

KRISLER BAILEY

6 FEBRUARY 2017

“

W

e started attending Gateway Church five years ago, and I got involved with a wonderful ladies group at the NRH Campus shortly after. I was very pregnant at the time and also had a three-year-old, a two-year-old, and a one-year-old.

A bunch of ladies from this wonderful group came and spent the whole day cleaning our house and helping me get organized. They bought us a new vacuum, gave us an offering they took to help with bills, and got our house ready for the new baby.

I even made some new friends from the group who came to help. We felt so encouraged during that time. We have no family living close, and these ladies stepped in like family would. To see so much love has made an eternal impact on our lives.”

DANIELLE LEE

Gateway started the year by putting God first at First Conference.

IN RESPONSE TO FIRST CONFERENCE

“The Holy Spirit met

[my husband and me] and challenged our thinking and beliefs for this coming year. Our worldviews are better because of 2017’s First Conference.”

Keviana Elliot | via Instagram

“I WISH I HEARD PASTOR JOHN HAGEE’S MESSAGE YEARS AGO …

A DIVORCE HURTS A LOT. GOD IS GIVING ME A NEW CHANCE. THINGS ARE GOING TO BE DIFFERENT.” Neire JB | via Facebook

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SINGLE

SEASON Trusting God when He hasn’t answered your prayers.

by Jenae Tankersley

I’VE BEEN IN A SEASON OF SINGLENESS FOR TWELVE YEARS NOW.

Twelve years of walking with God through the ups and downs. Twelve years of being frustrated with His timing. Twelve years of watching most of my close friends get married (and start having kids). Twelve years of God holding my heart when relationships didn’t end the way I had hoped. Twelve years of listening to friends share their “wisdom” on how I am too picky or not picky enough.

Yet, I’ve also had twelve years of opportunities. Twelve years of pursuing other dreams in my heart—traveling, missions, and passions like photography and singing.

Twelve years of reading in uninterrupted silence, serving in ministry, and sometimes just living nomadically simply because I could.

What I’ve realized most in these twelve years is God never wastes a season. There will always be seasons of waiting—ask a couple waiting to get pregnant, parents

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waiting for their prodigal child to return home, or a student waiting to graduate—but it’s when God doesn’t answer our prayers in the timing we lay out for Him that we come face to face with the reality of our own hearts. It’s then we must ask ourselves if we still believe He is good.

The biggest shift in my life came when a friend sent me a devotional about the Israelites asking God for a king. In 1 Samuel 8, Samuel was judge over Israel, and the people asked him to appoint a king so they could “be like other nations.” Samuel took their request to God, but God warned that it isn’t what they really want and explained what would

“Could this maybe be similar to your dream and desire for marriage?” He asked me. I sat speechless. Was He really comparing me to the Israelites? I’d read a lot about them, and being like them wasn’t at the top of my priority list.

Surely, we were very different.

God whispered again, “What if meeting your desire doesn’t equal what you think it does? What if you’ve held onto it so tightly that you can’t receive what I want to give you today, in this season? What if I have a sea of desires you haven’t even tapped into that I’m ready to pour out as soon as your hands are open to receive?”

I’d subconsciously made a long list of what singleness and marriage equaled, and suddenly I saw God draw a line straight down the middle, through each equal sign. “What if that desire doesn’t equal that?” I heard Him repeat again.

What if you’ve already been chosen?

What if I am always with you and will never leave or forsake you?

What if I will take care of you—as your provider, healer, and Father?

What if I open doors for you that no man can shut?

What if you find your joy in me and not your circumstances?

What if … ?

happen if they appointed a king (taxes, hard labor, etc.).

Samuel took the warning to the people, but they refused to listen to him. Samuel took their response back to God, and with what I can only imagine was a very big sigh, He answered Samuel: “Listen to them and give them a king.”

How often do we fight for our own way? Or even demand it? We think we know best. We’re so passionate about our stance or desires, it’s hard to see that God may already have a plan. God wanted to be the Israelites’ King. He wanted to be the one to fight for them and protect them, but they demanded their own way, which eventually led to their demise.

As I read this devotional, God began to whisper something, putting His finger on one specific petition I’d continually brought to Him, one desire of my heart: marriage.

It was simple and obvious: the idea of marriage had become an idol. This one unmet desire had become my focus and measuring stick of God’s love, as if the sum of His goodness and power had been placed in a small box to simply provide me a spouse, and I was overlooking all the other things He was giving me today.

With my list demolished, it occurred to me I was okay. God was not withholding. He was giving.

God has so many other adventures and dreams He wants to give me today, and in His good timing, marriage will be one of them. GL Jenae Tankersley has been at Gateway for seven years and currently works in Gateway Young Adults. She loves to go on new traveling adventures, attempt to garden, tell stories through photography and blogging, and hang out with friends.

ASK A PASTOR GATEWAY PASTORS ANSWER YOUR DIFFICULT QUESTIONS

Why do trials and suffering happen?

by PASTOR MARCUS BRECHEEN

T

his is a great question everyone wonders about from time to time.

There are a few passages of Scripture that can help us shape our understanding of this very difficult question.

1. Trials and suffering are necessary. (Acts 14:22) Yet, once we get to heaven, Revelation 21 tells us that there will be no more tears, no more death, no more mourning, no more crying, no more pain. So why must there be trials and suffering now? Let’s first establish that God will only act toward us in loving ways. The enemy of our souls would use our trials and suffering to attempt to prove the opposite. But we take our understanding of who God is from His Word, not from our circumstances. God loves us, and all His ways toward us are loving. So why does God allow us to experience difficulty? Because we need it. Even Jesus, the Son of God, learned obedience from the things He suffered (see Hebrews 5:8).

So it’s good to know there is purpose in trials and suffering.

Now let’s be clear at this point: A good bit of our suffering comes from the enemy, not from God. So it is very important not to confuse the source.

2. Trials and suffering are varied.

In 2 Corinthians 4:8–9, Paul lists several kinds of suffering: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. All of us have experienced each of these in various ways. And regardless of the source, in every trial both God and Satan are at work. God is working to refine us, train us, and mold us into the image of Jesus. Satan is working to diminish our faith.

3. Trials and suffering prepare us for ministry to others.

It is a wonderful thing to be comforted by God, but it requires that we turn to God rather than toward other handy things to numb our pain.

2 Corinthians 1:3–4 says that God will comfort us if we turn to Him. And in His comfort, He prepares us to comfort others who suffer in the same ways. Early in our marriage, my wife suffered two miscarriages in one year. We still cry over that pain, and God still comforts us.

But we had many friends who had experienced that pain before we did, and they comforted us in our grief. That year would have been almost unbearable without them. And our friends are one of the ways God comforted us.

4. In some very strange ways, trials and suffering prepare us for eternity.

(2 Corinthians 4:16–18) If we are willing to view trials and suffering from a biblical perspective rather than from a selfish standpoint, we can see them as scaffolding. Scaffolding is that temporary structure built next to a building to support the people and materials necessary to make the building into its permanent, beautiful form. But once the building is built, the scaffolding is removed so the building can be enjoyed. That’s the way trials and suffering serve God, and us. They operate as temporary structures to build what is beautiful to God, then they are removed.

What if we walked through our trials and suffering with the faith that, with this situation, God is giving us a very lavish gift that we would not be able to receive otherwise? If we could see from here to the other side of our trials, we would say “yes” to the promise even knowing what lies in between. GL This month’s “Ask a Pastor” is written by Marcus Brecheen, Campus Pastor of Gateway North Fort Worth.

Have a difficult question? Email askapastor@gatewaypeople.com.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 11

How your strengths (and weaknesses) affect your marriage.

by ALLAN KELSEY

12  FEBRUARY 2017

OHN CAME TO ME BECAUSE he was having trouble being understood at work and wanted to know how to communicate his perspective and ideas better.

Additionally, he said that while his marriage was good, lately he and his wife had felt distant and weren’t connecting quite the way they used to. They had been married five years.

His wife, Susan, had taken Gallup’s Clifton StrengthsFinder® assessment and was encouraging him to do so, but he didn’t understand why she was making such a big deal about it. Susan spoke frequently about her results and wanted to see him through the strengths lens so she could understand him better. She told him that it would help him at work to know his strengths, so John finally agreed. He took the assessment, then came to see me with his results.

John and I worked on a great plan using his strengths for work, and near the end of our time together, we looked

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over the strengths appearing lower on his list. As it turns out, the strength of Empathy® was number thirty-three out of thirty-four. Ordinarily I would have told him that since this was among his bottom-five strengths, he should be aware of it and work to ensure that this result wouldn’t hinder his interactions with others. But this was no ordinary situation: I knew Susan had Empathy in her top five. That changed everything.

As we talked about his low Empathy score, he told me how he never intended to lack for Empathy. He said, “It just doesn’t come to me. I’m not trying to avoid it; it’s just not on my radar. I understand Empathy, and I try to live with it in my life. When someone tells me something sad, I like to respond

AS WE TALKED ABOUT HIS LOW EMPATHY SCORE, HE TOLD ME HOW HE NEVER INTENDED TO LACK FOR EMPATHY.

empathetically, but it comes from a processed decision, not a natural ‘I can’t help myself’ kind of place.”

Then we turned our conversation to Susan. She had Empathy among her top-five strengths, meaning it is a very strong part of her everyday life.

She cannot function without demonstrating Empathy; it’s just who she is.

John told me this trait was one of the things that attracted him to her in the first place.

14 FEBRUARY 2017

I quickly helped John see that just by doing life his normal way, he was giving off an unspoken yet subtle message to everyone around him that said, “Empathy doesn’t factor in my world and has no place in my life.” For Susan, on the other hand, an empathetic approach to life isn’t a choice to make—it’s who she is.

When you put those two factors together, you can see that John was sending a message that said, “I don’t see Empathy,” which Susan interpreted as, “I don’t see you.”

John was devastated. He was unaware that his bottom-five strengths were having such a crushing effect on his wife’s heart. He began to cry. He told me how much he loved her, and that he was so sad to have been hurting her all this time without even knowing it. We talked awhile longer, and after a little time he told me he had a plan to fix this problem.

The next day at 10:00 a.m., John took the rest of the day off and called Susan at work. He asked her to request emergency time off for the rest of the day and to meet him at the local outdoor mall.

It was a beautiful spring day, and they met at the fountain in the middle of the mall. Susan was very anxious.

This kind of activity was not normal for John. John took her hands and led her to a park bench. As they sat in the warm spring sunshine, this is what John said.

“I want you to know that I am so sorry I have been inadvertently sending a message every day that, to you, probably sounds like: ‘I don’t see you, how you feel doesn’t matter to me, and I don’t care.’ Darling, I want you to know, I am so sorry.”

Susan started to cry. John had more to say, but it didn’t matter. After

JOHN WAS DEVASTATED. HE WAS UNAWARE THAT HIS BOTTOM-FIVE STRENGTHS WERE HAVING SUCH A CRUSHING EFFECT ON HIS WIFE’S HEART.

she composed herself, she looked him straight in the eyes and said: “For the first time in our marriage, since the day we said I do, I feel seen by you.”

Years later I asked John how his relationship with Susan was going, and he said: “Allan, that single spring day did more to deepen and advance our marriage, more to heal our relationship, and more to strengthen our communication than anything else we have encountered. I could not be more grateful. It has established a language for our relationship that is present to this day, and I can’t imagine where we would be without it.”

My heartfelt prayer is that you, too, will find revelatory insight throughout this book, and that your marriage and other relationships will take on a new dimension of empowerment. GL Pastor Allan Kelsey is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach.

Adapted from Pastor Allan Kelsey and Pastor Jimmy Evans’ new book, Strengths Based Marriage, available at Amazon and at the Gateway Bookstore.

SONG STORY

Brandan Bustamante, Aaron Crider, Rebecca Hart, and Andrew Morris’s

“MY HEART IS YOURS”

by Daniel Hopkins

Brandan Bustamante, Aaron Crider, Rebecca Hart, and Andrew Morris cowrote a song perfect for a winter campfire worship session. “My Heart Is Yours” came at the tail end of a somewhat grueling songwriting session. The writers had all been paired together by Pastor Mark Harris, and this was the day’s final session. Ideas were scarce, and the group thought about throwing in the towel. “We were spent and even thought about pausing the session for a few days,” says Brandan Bustamante.

“But I don’t ever like leaving a songwriting session without writing something.”

That’s when Andrew Morris started humming a melody.

Immediately a spark shot through the group. Brandan started singing along to Andrew’s melody and a chorus was formed. From there, the group completed the song in 45 minutes.

Many times when writing worship songs at Gateway, the process begins when someone has inspiration and an idea for a song and they bring it to the ON A HOT AFTERNOON IN JULY,

group. However, this one was a group “The song for me is about allowing effort from the beginning.

God to come and move in my life,” says “There’s something special about Brandan. “We have to be in a surrenwriting a song on your own,” says dered state—not in a prideful state.”

Brandan. “It’s like receiving a perfectly The verses declare the attributes of wrapped little gift from God and it’s God, and the chorus allows us to invite up to you as a songwriter to be a good His presence into our lives by saying, steward of it. But when you write “Come, Jesus, whisper Your desire, my in a group, you’re all receiving that heart is surrendered. / Come, heaven, gift together, and you’re all sharing burn with holy fire, my heart is Yours.” what God has given you.” This style As you listen to the rest of Created of songwriting, while it can lead to a to Be: Songs from Gateway Devotions, great result, often comes at a higher you’ll notice a new musical direction. cost. The trust and humility it takes to It’s filled with songs with a similar throw an idea out to the group—at the acoustic feel, and it’s fitting that “My risk of having it rejected—is difficult to Heart Is Yours” is one of the first songs. conjure. However, in the case of “My What better way to set the tone of a Heart Is Yours,” it was totally worth it. worship album than to have the first The resulting song is sparse and song declare who God is and invite Him mellow, accompanied by little more into our lives and situations. than an acoustic guitar, piano, and light “It’s a song about coming to a true percussion instruments. “The vibe we place of surrender,” says Brandan. “It’s were going for was a campfire, prayer- the picture of letting the Lord speak to meeting style of song,” says Brandan. us in that state.” GL However, its power sneaks up on you as the gentle verse sung by Rebecca Hart “My Heart Is Yours,” from Gateway’s Created to Be gives way to a big chorus during which devotional album, Waiting on a Whisper, is available on iTunes. she and Brandan sing a duet.

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Outreach

LAUGH! The funniest outreach ever

by Katie Smith

O

NE SUMMER NIGHT IN 2007, The creation of this evening of com- the funniest outreach opportunity Pastor Jan Greenwood edy was the brainchild of Pastor Debbie around. “It’s really easy for people to raced around the NRH Morris. Women tend to carry a lot of emo- invite their friends, especially those Campus to find space for tional weight—family, children, career— who wouldn’t normally want to come the surprising number of and Pastor Debbie wanted to find a way to church,” Hannah says. “And we’ve women who showed up for Gateway for them to get together, have fun, let seen over the years that when we come Women’s first Laugh! Night. The park- their hair down, and unplug. The answer in with a simple, non-churchy agenda, ing lot was completely full, and women was laughter. “We can get so stressed God does amazing things.” were sitting in the halls, the aisles, and sometimes, but when we laugh and enjoy Although it varies year to year and the floor of the Auditorium. “We had each other’s company, things don’t seem campus to campus, there are often so hard,” says Hannah Etsebeth, associ- spontaneous altar calls at the end of 750 seats available, and 1,300 women showed up!” Pastor Jan says. “I remem- ate director of Gateway Women events. the comedian’s set. There have been ber trying to smile as I ran through “We come out seeing straight again. In several Laugh! Nights where the altars the building to find extra chairs while have been flooded with women receivthat way, laughter is spiritual.” thinking, where did all these women The first Laugh! Night involved an ing salvation, rededicating their lives to come from? Clearly there was a need awesome female comedian, a brick wall, the Lord, or simply looking for prayer. for an event like this.” Needless to say, and a microphone, and it’s only grown “Some of the most profound spiritual Laugh! Night was the social event of the and evolved from there. Recent years experiences during these nights have season. The next year, it was moved to have included themes such as “Cirque not been orchestrated by us. They just the Southlake Campus, and within a de Laugh” and “Laughopoly” along happened,” Pastor Jan says. “It may few more years, it was being offered at with live comedians at every campus. seem odd, but it works, and it’s always multiple campuses. Now, 10 years later, It’s become much more than your so relaxed and powerful. Laughter the event is still consistently packed. ordinary women’s event—it’s become disarms the heart.” GL

Are you ready for Laugh!? Register today at women.gatewaypeople.com.

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You’re 30 times more likely to laugh at something when you’re with others than when you’re alone.

Babies have the ability to laugh before they have the ability to speak.

Children laugh approximately 300 times a day, while adults laugh only 4 times a day.

A cheerful heart is good medicine.

(Proverbs 17:22, NLT)

Laughing for 10 to 15 minutes a day can burn up to 40 calories.

Recent studies show that couples who laughed and were light-hearted about stressful situations stayed together longer and experienced more relational satisfaction than those who were extremely serious.

Laughing is scientifically proven to improve immunity and mood, regulate blood sugar levels, decrease stress, and improve sleep.

The record for the longest continuous stand-up comedy show was set in April 2015 by a group of comedians in Nashville.

Statistics were gathered from the following online sources: Huffington Post, BBC, Psychology Today, and Reader’s Digest.

For specific citations, email editorial@gatewaypeople.com.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 17

THE INTERSECTION FAITH + POP CULTURE

The Lord of the Rings

by S. GEORGE THOMAS & KATIE SMITH

“YOU HAVE MY SWORD.” “AND YOU HAVE MY BOW.” “AND MY AXE.”

T

hese words jump-start the formation of an epic yet eclectic group of individuals. They’re an unlikely crew: an elf, a dwarf, four hobbits, two men, and a wizard—aka the Fellowship of the Ring—and in The Lord of the Rings stories, it’s this ragtag band of misfits who stand against the darkest evil and save Middle Earth.

This fellowship has a rough start (picture Gimli roaring, “Never trust an elf!”). They come from divergent backgrounds, and their ages range from 25 to more than 2,000. But as they journey toward their common goal—destroying the ring of power—these individuals move from distrust, prejudice, and varying agendas to learning from one another, relying on each other’s giftings, overcoming overwhelming obstacles together, and protecting one another, no matter the cost.

It isn’t easy for them to trust each other. Gimli the dwarf and Legolas the elf have hundreds of years of bad blood between their races—a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. But they choose to set aside their animosity for the sake of their common cause, making their eventual abiding friendship that much more powerful.

The Fellowship of the Ring is a microcosm of what the Church should be: one body of people working through prejudices, age gaps,

18 FEBRUARY 2017

and cultural differences for a common purpose—a greater good. We are actively engaged in a spiritual battle, and our enemy’s primary tactic is to divide us, to fracture and diffuse our light shining into the darkness. Why? Because our greatest strength is our unity—our love for one another in the midst of our differences. Before going to the cross, Jesus’ final words were: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34, NIV).

The single most effective way for us to be a light in this world has nothing to do with how many causes we champion; it has everything to do with how we love each other—our brothers and sisters in Christ.

As members of one body, we’re called to build each other up, not criticize, judge, or tear each other down. Celebrate our relationships with each other. Look out for each other’s best interests. Prefer one another above ourselves.

Forgive each other. Strive for unity. And above all, love one another.

It’s not easy; it requires work. But there’s a world of souls at stake. It’s time to work through our differences, unify in “fellowship of the ring” moments, where we can say to one another, “You have my gifts. You have my trust. Let’s tackle the darkness … together.” GL

You are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus …. There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female.

You are all one in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:26, 28 (NLT)

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Stay connected with us!

GATEWAYPEOPLE HEALING MINISTRY

Wednesdays, Feb 1–22 | 7:00 pm or 8:30 pm in Classroom 2D SLK

MIN

If you need physical healing, we would love to pray with you. Contact: Buddy Atkinson, 817.328.2084, healing@gatewaypeople.com

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE

Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

MEN’S BRIGADE SERVICE DAY

Saturday, Feb 11 | 7:30 am Men’s Brigade serves widows and single mothers by doing odd jobs around their homes on the second Saturday of every month.

Come help us spread the gospel with a hammer and nail!

NRH

We’re joining MarriageToday for an unforgettable two-day event live at the Southlake Campus designed to bring you and your spouse closer together. Event includes special guest speakers Allan Kelsey and John Gray and conference emcee Tim Ross as well as a Q&A with Pastor Jimmy Evans and his wife, Karen.

For more information and to register, visit xo.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Casey Hale, 817.552.5806, xoslk@gatewaypeople.com

Contact: Dustin Herron, 817.552.5809, menslk@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

Sundays | 9:30–10:30 am

MIN

Marriage Challenge is for couples who are in crisis or experiencing a difficult season. Our team is trained and passionate about supporting those in hurting marriages, and we offer prayer, direction, and tools for resolution. Registration is not required, and children’s ministry is available at the Southlake Campus. Contact: Doug Hawk, 682.223.6063, marriagechallenge@gatewaypeople.com

BABY DEDICATIONS

Sunday, Feb 5 | 2:30 pm | Auditorium If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com.

Space is limited! Contact: Cheryl Morgan, 817.552.7431, babies@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY GROUPS

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at the Southlake Campus, join a Gateway Group or become a group leader. Find your group at groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Casey Hale, 817.552.5806, groupsslk@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 19

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY SOUTHLAKE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY EQUIP

Wednesdays & Weekends

This winter, in addition to our regular Wednesday and weekend classes, we are excited to announce our newest class, The Kingdom of God Is at Hand. We also have a Jewish Roots/Havdalah Fellowship class!

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Karen Hageman, 817.552.7462, equip@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

1st Saturday of Every Month | 4:00 pm | Classroom 2D This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history and gives you an opportunity to become a member. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Janice Scott, 817.552.7483, ctvslk@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY FREEDOM INFO NIGHT

Wednesday, Feb 15 | 7:15 pm

MIN

Come learn more about how to serve in Freedom classes, groups, and sessions.

Contact: Elizabeth Settle, 817.552.7368, freedomslk@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL FITNESS

Sunday, Feb 5 | 12:30 pm This monthly personal coaching event is for anyone who desires one-on-one assistance with their finances and is a great follow-up to any of our Gateway Stewardship classes.

Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Jacquelyn Bushnell, 817.552.7428, stewardship@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS EQUIP

Wednesdays, Feb 15–Mar 1 | 7:00 pm Equip is partnering with Gateway Kids to provide fun and educational classes for your children (6–12 years old) to grow spiritually. Registration is not required.

Contact: Karen Hageman, 817.552.7462, equip@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

We’d love for you to be part of our usher, greeter, Guest Central, and Information Center teams. For more information, visit serve.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jim Mayher, 817.552.7566, gxp@gatewaypeople.com

ANCHOR OF HOPE CLASS

Mondays, Feb 27–May 1 | 7:00 pm | The Mix

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00 am | Lobby »» Fifty-Plus Bible Study 10:00 am | Classroom 2A WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium UC THURSDAYS »» Men’s Prayer | 5:30 am | Lobby SATURDAYS »» Preservice Prayer | 3:30 pm »» Fifty-Plus Bible Study (Adults 50+) | 5:30 pm SUNDAYS »» Freedom Basics | 9:00 am »» Prayer for Our Nation | 10:40 am

20 FEBRUARY 2017

GATEWAY OUTREACH MINISTRY TRIP Wednesday–Sunday, Apr 5–9 Shreveport, Louisiana

Join us as we partner with The Hub to minister to and serve those in poverty. For more information, visit trips.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Sarah Weaver, 817.552.3774, outreachslk@gatewaypeople.com

If you and your spouse are seeking healing in the aftermath of infidelity, whether it’s emotional infidelity, physical infidelity, pornography, or sexual addiction, join us for this 10-week recovery class. Registration is required.

Contact: Crystal Persick, 817.552.7571, anchorofhope@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY

Saturdays, Mar 11–May 13 | 3:30 pm | Classroom 2D Financial Peace University will show you how to get rid of debt, manage your money, spend wisely, and much more! Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Jacquelyn Bushnell, 817.552.7428, stewardship@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP VOLUNTEERS

Come be part of the Southlake Campus Equip team! We have opportunities for greeters, room hosts, and altar ministers.

Contact: Karen Hageman, 817.552.7462, equip@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

LOCATIONS &

SERVICE TIMES GATEWAY YOUNG ADULTS

Tuesday, Feb 14 | 7:00 pm SLK DAL GRP NFW NRH

We’ll have worship, a live message from your campus’s Young Adults pastor, and time to hang out following the service. We can’t wait to see you there!

Contact: Katie Willis, 817.552.5871, youngadults@gatewaypeople.com

KAIROS

WORSHIP TEAM ACADEMY February–May

SLK FRS GRP NFW

Worship Team Academy is an exciting 12-week, video-based curriculum for piano, guitar, drum, bass, or vocal technique that trains musicians in worship theology and musical craft. For more information, visit wta.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Kristy Luth, 817.552.7611, worshipteamacademy@gatewaypeople.com

Sunday, Mar 5 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium | All Campuses

SLK

Our Performing Arts classes (acting, dancing, and singing), songwriting classes, and Visual Arts classes (drawing, film, and photography) meet once a week. Cost: $25 per six-week session. Email to register. Contact: London Wright, 817.328.2018, creativearts@gatewaypeople.com

PRAYER FOR ISRAEL

Tuesday, Feb 21 | 7:00 pm | The Mix

Thursday–Friday, Feb 23–24 | Auditorium

SLK

KAIROS II is a safe place to find greater freedom in Christ and learn how to grow in freedom in your day-to-day life.

KAIROS is a prerequisite for this event.

Register at kairos.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Krystina Simon, 817.552.7606, kairos2@gatewaypeople.com

MEN’S SUMMIT 2017

Mar 23–24 or 30–31

Everyone is invited to come for extended worship and ministry as we join as a family to worship the Lord! Children’s ministry is available by registration (birth through five years old). For more information, visit worship.gatewaypeople.com

PINK IMPACT 2017

SLK

Join us this month as we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, the salvation of Israel, and protection on behalf of the Jewish people. Contact: Mark Anthony, 817.552.3789, israelprayer@gatewaypeople.com

KAIROS II

SLK

KAIROS is a time for you to experience God in a deeper and more intimate way. Come expecting to have an encounter with the Holy Spirit through worship, teaching, and ministry. Register at kairos.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Jennifer Stracener, 817.552.7446, kairos@gatewaypeople.com

NIGHT OF WORSHIP

CREATIVE ARTS CLASSES

Feb 13–Apr 3

Thursday–Friday, Apr 27–28 9:00 am–5:00 pm | Auditorium

SLK

Sammy Rodriguez, Louie Giglio, For King and Country, Switchfoot, and many more will join us for this year’s Men’s Summit as we experience high-energy entertainment, a massive amount of food, and an opportunity to encounter God! Register at menssummit.com. Contact: David Rivera, 817.552.3631, men@gatewaypeople.com

Friday–Saturday, May 12–13 Fort Worth Convention Center We’re excited to welcome Lysa TerKeurst, Lisa Harper, Dr. Henry Cloud, Sheryl Brady, Christine Caine, and Kari Jobe to this year’s Pink Impact! Volunteer rates and shuttle passes from your campus are available! Register at pinkimpact.com. Contact: Elisabeth Dunn, 682.223.6002, pinkimpact@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS’ CAMP

Monday–Saturday, Jun 12–17 | Dry Gulch, U.S.A. Kids 1st–6th Grade | 7–12 Years Old It’s time to register your child for camp!

The cost is $580 if registered by March 31 and $610 after that date. Register at kids.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Melanie Baley, 817.552.3685, kidscamp@gatewaypeople.com

HOSPITALITY TEAM

Would you like to help us maintain a friendly and inviting atmosphere during weekend services and other events? We’re looking for people to help with food prep, serving, and cleanup. Contact: Jasmine Streete, 682.223.6009, hospitality@gatewaypeople.com

SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS SLK 700 Blessed Way · Southlake, TX 76092 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm DALLAS CAMPUS DAL 12123 Hillcrest Rd · Dallas, TX 75230 Sat 4:00 pm Sun 10:45 am FRISCO CAMPUS FRS 7125 Legacy Dr · Frisco, TX 75034 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm GRAND PRAIRIE CAMPUS GRP 2404 N Carrier Pkwy · Grand Prairie, TX 75050 Sat 4:00 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm NORTH FORT WORTH CAMPUS NFW 4209 Basswood Blvd · Fort Worth, TX 76137 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm NRH CAMPUS NRH 7501 Davis Blvd · North Richland Hills, TX 76182 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm MINISTRY CENTER MIN 540 S Nolen · Southlake, TX 76092 UNIVERSITY CAMPUS UC 2121 E Southlake Blvd · Southlake, TX 76092 817.328.1000

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY AVAILABLE

WEEKLY EVENTS WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium UC DAL FRS GRP NFW NRH

SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am MIN (Canceled on holiday weekends)

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 21

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHURCHWIDE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY DALLAS

Stay connected with us!

GATEWAYDALLAS BABY DEDICATIONS

Sunday, Feb 12 | After Sunday Service | Prayer Suite If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com.

Space is limited! Contact: Donna Hunt, 469.801.7231, babiesdal@gatewaypeople.com

NIGHT OF WORSHIP

Sunday, Mar 5 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium Everyone is invited to come for extended worship and ministry as we join as a family to worship the Lord! Children’s ministry is available by registration (birth through five years old). Contact: Ruben Robles, 469.801.7232, worshipdal@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Gateway? We’d love for you to be part of our usher, greeter, parking lot, Guest Central, and Information Center teams. For more information, visit serve.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Kelly O’Briant, 469.801.7222, servedal@gatewaypeople.com

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE SIMULCAST Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

We’re joining MarriageToday for an unforgettable two-day event live at the Southlake Campus designed to bring you and your spouse closer together. Event includes special guest speakers Allan Kelsey and John Gray and conference emcee Tim Ross as well as a Q&A with Pastor Jimmy Evans and his wife, Karen. For more information and to register, visit xo.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Carol Rose, 469.801.7228, familydal@gatewaypeople.com

22 FEBRUARY 2017

GATEWAY GROUPS

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at the Dallas Campus, join a Gateway Group or become a group leader. Find a group at groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Kinnsey Echols, 469.801.7221, groupsdal@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

Join us for a variety classes in freedom, stewardship, marriage and family, spiritual life, and more! Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Brigette Ferrier, 469.801.7209, equipdal@gatewaypeople.com

ISRAEL TOUR

Sep 8–20 | Applications Due Mar 1 Join us as we partner with First Fruits Ministry to evangelize and serve those in Israel. We’ll also get to tour historical sites!

For more information, visit trips.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Marc Bolling, 469.801.7237, outreachdal@gatewaypeople.com

DALLAS WORSHIP COMMUNITY

Do you love worship and want to connect with other worshippers at the Dallas Campus? You’re invited to join the worship community! Email us for more information. Contact: Ruben Robles, 469.801.7232, worshipdal@gatewaypeople.com

EMBRACE GRACE

This amazing ministry gives girls with unplanned pregnancies a place to go for spiritual, emotional, and physical support.

Contact us if you’re interested in joining or if you’d like to serve with us at the Dallas Campus! Visit embracegrace.com.

Contact: Kellianne Jackson, 214.490.8837, embracegracedal@gatewaypeople.com

JEWISH EQUIP CLASSES

Sundays, Feb 5–Mar 19 | 9:00 am Join us as we study the Jewish roots of our faith and lift up Jesus the Messiah.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Gunnar Johnson, 469.801.7214, equipdal@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY KIDS 5TH AND 6TH GRADE MINISTRY

Weekend Services | The Mix

All 5th and 6th grade students are invited to a special Gateway Kids service where we have fun and learn about God. Contact: Rob Warfel, 469.801.7236, kidsdal@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENTS

Wednesdays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

COMMUTER & COFFEE BIBLE STUDY

All students 7th through 12th grade are invited to experience God, connect with amazing people, and have an incredible time!

Contact: Matt Washington, 469.801.7230, studentsdal@gatewaypeople.com

Sundays, Feb 5–Mar 26 | 9:00 am

Join us as we dive into Scripture with Bible teacher Chuck Missler. Listen or watch the study materials then join us for coffee and discussion. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Gunnar Johnson, 469.801.7214, equipdal@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

MAKING YOUR MONEY LAST IN RETIREMENT

WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium THURSDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00–8:00 am | Prayer Suite

GATEWAY KIDS PAID & VOLUNTEER POSITIONS

Help us shape the next generation for the future God has planned for them. We have part-time paid and volunteer positions available. Contact: Anne Hardin, 817.552.7475, kidsjobs@gatewaypeople.com

Saturday, Mar 4 | 8:30–11:30 am | Prayer Suite

This seminar will equip you with proven strategies on how to invest your money in your golden years. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Brad Jack, 214.563.6787, stewardshipdal@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 23

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY EQUIP

Weekends, Feb 4–Mar 26

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY FRISCO

Stay connected with us!

GATEWAYFRISCO

GATEWAY GROUPS JOIN A GATEWAY GROUP

Want to get connected and make new friends at the Frisco Campus?

Join a Gateway Group! Register at groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, groupsfrs@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN’S MENTORING

Do you want to discover more about yourself, your potential, and your capabilities? Consider becoming a mentor or mentee. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, womenmentoringfrs@gatewaypeople.com

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, Feb 18 | 7:00 am | Lobby We hope to see you at our next breakfast where men in our community come together to connect and hear from the Lord.

This event is free, and registration is not required.

Contact: Nicole Lemons, 817.552.5869, menfrs@gatewaypeople.com

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE SIMULCAST Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

We’re joining MarriageToday for an unforgettable two-day event live at the Southlake Campus designed to bring you and your spouse closer together. Event includes special guest speakers Allan Kelsey and John Gray and conference emcee Tim Ross as well as a Q&A with Pastor Jimmy Evans and his wife, Karen. For more information and to register, visit xo.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Janae Hausman, 817.552.7585, xofrs@gatewaypeople.com

24 FEBRUARY 2017

LEAD A GATEWAY GROUP

If you like bringing people together and helping them grow, consider leading a Gateway Group! We will give you all of the training, resources, and support you need to succeed.

Register at groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, groupsfrs@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY EQUIP

Weekends

We offer a wide range of Equip classes featuring Jewish, freedom, stewardship, spiritual life, and marriage and family ministries.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Connie Brown, 817.552.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

LAUGH! | A PINK NIGHT

Thursday, Feb 16 7:00 pm | Auditorium Grab your friends, and join us for a night of laughter and fun with one of our favorite Christian comedians, Anita Renfroe.

Register at women.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Leigh-Taylor Hester, 817.552.3638, womenfrs@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Healing Ministry | 6:30 pm WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium FRIDAYS »» Men’s Prayer | 6:00 am | Lobby SATURDAYS »» Equip | 5:45 pm | Classroom B SUNDAYS »» Equip | 9:00 am | Classroom B »» Equip | 12:30 pm | Classroom B

GUEST EXPERIENCE Weekend Services

Looking for a place to serve?

Join our greeter or usher teams and help us welcome people to the Frisco Campus!

For more information, visit serve.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Tricia Centracco, 817.552.3705, servefrs@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 25

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY GRAND PRAIRIE

Stay connected with us!

GATEWAYGRP LOCAL OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays | 9:00 am–2:00 pm First Saturday of the Month | 9:00 am–2:00 pm The Joseph Storehouse Emergency Relief Center Come serve families in need at our local food pantry located at 2129 Galveston Street in Grand Prairie. Contact: Steve Taylor, 972.262.8318, staylor@tjsercenter.org

GATEWAY STUDENTS FIRST LOOK

First Wednesday of the Month | 6:30 pm If you’re interested in serving with Gateway Students, come visit a service, meet our staff, shadow another leader, and hear our heart and vision for the next generation. Registration is not required. Contact: Abby Fernandez, 972.314.9107, studentsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Mar 4 | 4:00 pm | Classroom 2A & 2B This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history and gives you an opportunity to become a member. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Angela Wescott, 972.314.9106, ctvgrp@gatewaypeople.com

BABY DEDICATIONS

Feb 4–5 | Weekend Services | Auditorium If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com.

Space is limited! Contact: Neesy Brooks, 972.314.9101, babiesgrp@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

GATEWAY GROUPS

Marriage Challenge is for couples who are in crisis or experiencing a difficult season.

Our team is trained and passionate about supporting those in hurting marriages, and we offer prayer, direction, and tools for resolution. Registration is not required.

Contact: Bri Kramer, 972.314.9000, marriagegrp@gatewaypeople.com

If you like bringing people together and helping them grow, consider leading a Gateway Group! We will give you all of the training, resources, and support you need to succeed. For more information, visit groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Rachel Sandefur, 972.314.9088, groupsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

Sundays | 9:30–10:30 am | Ministry Center (2410 N Carrier Pkwy) (Canceled on Holiday Weekends)

26 FEBRUARY 2017

LEADERS NEEDED

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY EQUIP

Sundays Through Feb 26 | 9:00 am & 10:45 am

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Gateway? We’d love for you to be part of our usher, greeter, parking lot, Guest Central, and Information Center teams. For more information, visit serve.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Joel Maldonado, 972.314.9108, servegrp@gatewaypeople.com

We offer a wide range of Equip classes featuring Jewish, freedom, stewardship, spiritual life, and marriage and family ministries. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Angela Wescott, 972.314.9106, equipgrp@gatewaypeople.com

WISE WOMEN OF THE WORD

Wednesday, Feb 22 | 10:00 am

If you are widowed, single, or 60+ years of age, come join us for a teaching, lunch, and craft with Pastors Mark and Sandy Jobe.

Contact us to register. Contact: Bri Kramer, 972.314.9098, womengrp@gatewaypeople.com

XO CONFERENCE SIMULCAST

Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

We’re joining MarriageToday for an unforgettable two-day event live at the Southlake Campus designed to bring you and your spouse closer together. Event includes special guest speakers Allan Kelsey and John Gray and conference emcee Tim Ross as well as a Q&A with Pastor Jimmy Evans and his wife, Karen. For more information and to register, visit xo.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Bri Kramer, 972.314.9098, marriagegrp@gateawaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium

GATEWAY KIDS JEWEL STORE

SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am Ministry Center, 2410 N Carrier Pkwy (Canceled on holiday weekends)

Feb 25–26 | After Each Weekend Service The Mix

GATEWAY KIDS VOLUNTEERS

Help us shape the next generation for the future God has planned for them. We have volunteer positions available for all ages. Contact: Neesy Brooks, 972.314.9101, kidsjobsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

Attention all parents! Don’t forget to bring your kids’ jewels for our next store weekend.

Contact: Ashley Butts, 972.314.9082, kidsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 27

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY NORTH FORT WORTH

Stay connected with us!

GATEWAYNFW COMMUNION VOLUNTEERS

Feb 25–26 | Weekend Services We’re looking for communion volunteers!

If you’d like to serve, visit the Information Center for instructions 30 minutes before the service you attend. Attire is business casual. Contact: Donya Allen, 817.552.5899, communionnfw@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY MARRIAGE NIGHT

Tuesday, Feb 28 | 7:00–9:00 pm | Auditorium Join us for a date night with dynamic comedian duo, Richard and Sheri Bright! You and your love will definitely want to join us for this hilariously outrageous evening of comedy! Cost: $10 per couple. Registration is required. Contact: Doug Vaughn, 817.552.3712, marriagenfw@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

Sundays | 9:30–10:30 am | North Fort Worth Campus Offices Marriage Challenge is for couples who are in crisis or experiencing a difficult season. Our team is trained and passionate about supporting those in hurting marriages, and we offer prayer, direction, and tools for resolution. Registration is not required.

Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.558.5801, marriagenfw@gatewaypeople.com

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE SIMULCAST Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

We’re joining MarriageToday for an unforgettable two-day event live at the Southlake Campus designed to bring you and your spouse closer together. Event includes special guest speakers Allan Kelsey and John Gray and conference emcee Tim Ross as well as a Q&A with Pastor Jimmy Evans and his wife, Karen. For more information and to register, visit xo.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, marriagenfw@gatewaypeople.com

28 FEBRUARY 2017

GATEWAY GROUPS

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at the North Fort Worth Campus, join a Gateway Group or become a group leader. Find a group at groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Byna Terndrup, 682.223.6072, groupsnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Gateway? We’d love for you to be part of our usher, greeter, Guest Central, and Information Center teams.

For more information, visit serve.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Donya Allen, 817.552.5899, servenfw@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY EQUIP

Weekends & Mondays

Come get equipped to fulfill your calling.

We offer classes on spiritual life, marriage and family, stewardship, and freedom.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.558.5801, equipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES

Mondays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium Single parent families are welcome to join us each week for a complimentary dinner at 5:30 pm followed by a night of worship and teaching as we focus on restoring a single parent’s heart. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, spfnfw@gatewaypeople.com

HEALING MINISTRY

MEN’S EQUIP: SEEK GOD FIRST

1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 7:00–8:15 pm | Suite 176

Sundays, Feb 5–19 | 9:00 am

If you need physical healing, we would love to pray with you. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Men, join us for this class where we’ll discuss tools that will help you answer the call to lead in your work, your family, and the church.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Kaitlen Bottone, 817.552.3792, mennfw@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

FINANCIAL FITNESS

Saturday, Feb 11 | 4:00 pm This monthly, personal coaching event is for anyone who desires one-on-one assistance with their finances and is a great follow-up to any of our Gateway Stewardship classes.

Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, stewardshipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

WEDNESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00–8:00 am | Compass A&B »» High Noon Prayer | 12:00 pm »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium THURSDAYS »» Men’s Promise Principle Groups 6:30 am | Guest Central SATURDAYS »» Morning Prayer | 8:00 am | Parking Lot SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am North Fort Worth Offices (Canceled on Holiday Weekends)

GRIEFSHARE

Saturdays, Feb 4–Apr 1 | 3:30–5:00 pm | Suite 176 If you’re experiencing heartache from the death of a loved one or friend, you don’t have to go through it alone. This class is dedicated to helping people through the grieving process. Cost: $25 for materials.

Register at care.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Debbie Rhodes, 817.552.7325, carenfw@gatewaypeople.com

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES CAREER PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT CLASS

Saturday, Feb 18 | 4:00 pm

Come improve your career potential and set goals to reach your career dreams! You’ll also be able to update your resume and brush up on skills for interviewing, networking, and dressing for success. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.558.5801, spfnfw@gatewaypeople.com

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY NRH

Stay connected with us!

GATEWAYNRH

GATEWAY GROUPS

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at the NRH Campus, join a Gateway Group or become a group leader. Find a group at groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Rachel Rupert, 817.552.5885, groupsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

FIFTY-PLUS GROUPS

Tuesdays | 10:00 am

If you’re part of the 50+ crowd, you’re invited to join us on Tuesday mornings for Bible study and fellowship.

Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.4144, fiftyplusnrh@gatewaypeople.com

MEN’S BREAKFAST

LEAD AN OUTREACH GROUP

Saturday, Feb 25 | 8:00–10:00 am This is a great time for men to eat some awesome food, engage in worship, and hear from the Lord. Registration is required.

If you want to connect with others while serving our community at the NRH Campus, we’d love for you to lead an outreach group.

Contact: Kemtal Glasgow, 817.552.5863, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, mennrh@gatewaypeople.com

ACFT SCHOOL MENTORING

February–May | ACFT Elementary School By giving just one hour a week, you can become a part of our mentoring program. For more information, visit outreach.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Kemtal Glasgow, 817.552.5863, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE SIMULCAST Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

We’re joining MarriageToday for an unforgettable two-day event live at the Southlake Campus designed to bring you and your spouse closer together. Event includes special guest speakers Allan Kelsey and John Gray and conference emcee Tim Ross as well as a Q&A with Pastor Jimmy Evans and his wife, Karen. For more information and to register, visit xo.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

30 FEBRUARY 2017

WOMEN’S MENTORING

Do you want to discover more about yourself, your potential, and your capabilities?

Consider becoming a mentor or mentee.

Contact: Rachel Rupert, 817.552.5885, womennrh@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY EQUIP

Weekends

FAMILY NIGHT AT MAIN EVENT

Sunday, Feb 26 | 5:15–8:30 pm | Main Event in Fort Worth Join us for a fun night for the entire family! Cost: $18 per person, includes a buffet dinner, 90 minutes of bowling, a $10 Funcard for arcade games, and more! Register at family.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, familynrh@gatewaypeople.com

BLESSED MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT

Apr 21–23 | The Inn at Lake Granbury | Granbury, Texas Join us this spring for a refreshing marriage retreat where Pastor Stan and Mandy Dennis will guide you on a journey to increase the intimacy in your marriage. Cost: $540 per couple (includes lodging, meals, and tickets to a show at the Granbury Theater Company).

Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

We have a variety of Equip classes featuring Jewish Equip, parenting, freedom, and marriage. For more information, stop by the Equip booth in the Lobby or visit equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Crystal Molinar, 817.552.7619, equipnrh@gatewaypeople.com

PREMARRIAGE WORKSHOP & BECOMING ONE CLASS

Feb 24–25 & Saturdays in March Join us for our Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts workshop in February, and then in March, we’ll have weekly classes about what the Bible has to say about the design and purpose of marriage. Cost: $50 per couple. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY MEN

BABY DEDICATIONS

Mar 4–5 | 10 Minutes Before Weekend Services Auditorium If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com by Monday, February 27. Space is limited! Contact: Amy Sellars, 817.552.7342, babiesnrh@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS MONDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00 am | Lobby TUESDAYS »» Fifty-Plus Group | 10:00 am | Chat Room WEDNESDAYS »» Men’s Prayer | 6:30–7:30 am | Lobby »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium

Men, we’d love to get to know you and share how you can get involved. For more information, visit men.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, mennrh@gatewaypeople.com

PRAYER TEAM

If you are interested in praying for people in our congregation, join our NRH Campus prayer team. Contact: Katherine Hesami, 817.552.3600, prayernrh@gatewaypeople.com

VOLUNTEER CREATIVE & SOCIAL MEDIA TEAMS

Do you love to decorate? We’d love for you to be on our creative team and help set up and decorate for events. Are you passionate about photography? Come be a part of our social media team by taking pictures of services, events, and outreaches.

Contact: Katherine Hesami, 817.552.3600, creativenrh@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Mar 18 | 4:00 pm | Chat Room

This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history and gives you an opportunity to become a member. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Crystal Molinar, 817.552.7619, ctvnrh@gatewaypeople.com

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Match the biblical couple with their description. Then, color them in!

A. Ahab & Jezebel B. Jacob & Rachel C. Esther & King Ahasuerus D. Ruth & Boaz E. Abraham & Sarah F. Delilah & Samson G. Adam & Eve

She worked in his fields gathering leftover grain.

They had kids when they were in their 90s.

They were evil rulers who sought to kill God’s prophet.

She cut his hair, and it didn’t end well.

H. Mary & Joseph

He worked 14 years for her father.

She was made from him.

An angel told him in a dream to marry her.

She won the biblical version of The Bachelor: Persian Royal Edition.

Answers: ( from left to right) D, E, B, G, A, F, H, C.

ACTIVITIES

GUESS WHO?

Joe Rine is a music teacher at International Leadership of Texas, and he and his family have been attending Gateway for nine years. Joe and his two brothers painted this piece, called “Your Next Step,� in a hospital room the day before one brother passed away. It was painted entirely with palette knives.

CALLING ALL CREATIVES!

We want to showcase your art in Gateway Life! For details, visit art.gatewaypeople.com.

P r o fi l e

CHAD SYKES EUCHARIST IS MY FAVORITE WORD. In Greek, it means “thanksgiving” and is the name of the meal we usually call communion. I think it’s important to note that one of the last things Jesus did on earth was sit down to a meal. It reminds us that in His kingdom, we will always have a seat at His table as beloved sons and daughters of God. And every time we share this meal, He is present at the table with us. Our part is to simply receive the meal with thanksgiving in our hearts and remember that He is a very real presence in our lives.

I LOVE THE SCIENCE OF HOW PEOPLE LEARN. God has given us the amazing capacity to learn and grow throughout our lives, and my passion is to see people have that “Aha!” moment when they grow in their understanding and knowledge.

I have those moments every single day, and I love to see others experience them as well.

I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A DEA AGENT. My uncle spent a few decades in the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration), and I thought he had the coolest job on earth. Everything was going as planned after high school, and I began working on my degree in criminal justice. Somewhere along the way though, I discovered that being colorblind disqualifies you from serving in this capacity. I am as colorblind as it gets! So, as you can imagine, I was devastated. But, as we grow and mature in life, we often discover what we thought we wanted to do would have actually left us empty and dissatisfied. As I look back with this in mind, I have zero regrets.

I’M FANATIC ABOUT FLOSSING. At least that’s what my wife says. But doesn’t everybody floss religiously?! I would be unable to sleep at night without flossing before brushing my teeth. It just has to happen for me to be at peace.

For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

34 FEBRUARY 2017

FAMILY Brandy, college sweetheart and wife of 15 years. Four children: Ella Kate (9), Liam (6), Henry (4), and Charlotte (9 months).

EDUCATION Bachelor’s in religion and master’s in learning technologies from University of North Texas.

ROLE AT GATEWAY Executive Pastor of Adult Ministries.

BACKSTORY Born and raised in the small, amazing town of Burkburnett, Texas.

LAMAR SLAY SOMETIMES ALL YOU CAN DO IS HANG ON TO JESUS! Our daughter, Brittany, was born with a chromosomal defect. She has had 22 major surgeries and countless hours of therapy. We were told at birth she would never walk, talk, or attend public school, but they forgot to tell Brittany that! Not only did she walk, talk, and attend public school, she played tennis through her junior year and graduated on the honor roll.

She is now a volunteer leader in Gateway Students and a teacher’s aide.

NEVER LOSE HOPE! Our son Josh was on drugs for six years. One day, he texted me saying he was sorry for the hurt and pain he had caused us and that he was ending his life. He then went dark. I had no idea where he was and spent the next few days trying to locate his body in the morgues. On the third day, he called me from the psych ward of the county hospital. A lady had found him passed out by a dumpster and called 911. She had taken a picture of him and sent it to him on Facebook telling him if he didn’t get his act together, this was how he would end up.

That was nearly seven years ago, and today he is the CEO of a recovery center.

I ONCE GAVE MY WIFE A BABY GOAT FOR MOTHER’S DAY. We’ve always had a lot of animals, and she would never give me gift ideas for birthdays, Mother’s Day, etc., so I gave her a baby goat named Billy. I get a list now!

I LOVE DEVELOPING LEADERS. It is extremely satisfying to challenge someone to become a leader and then see them step up and lead at a high capacity. I also enjoy working with other pastors and staff members helping them to become the leaders God intended them to be.

For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

FAMILY Cindy, wife of 38 years; five children: Stephen, Jeremy, Rian, Joshua, and Brittany; and eight grandchildren.

EDUCATION Bachelor’s from Dallas Baptist University and master’s from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

ROLE AT GATEWAY Pastor of Guest Experience and Member Services.

BACKSTORY Born and raised in Mississippi, except for the four years we lived in Texas while my dad attended seminary.

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P r o fi l e

BRYAN BURKHOLDER I LOVE MAPS. If I had the money, I’d buy a bunch of old maps from this cool store in North Dallas (One Map Place) and decorate my office or a room in our house entirely with maps.

DON’T COMPARE YOUR STORY TO OTHERS. I thought success for me meant committing to one place of ministry for the rest of my life. Then, after God moved my family and me several times, the enemy began to speak “failure” over me. But in the last two years, I’ve realized God has guided us in every single transition for a specific purpose.

Now I just focus on today’s assignment. God holds the future for me and my family!

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE CLEANING UP TRASH! That’s what I was doing when I first felt like I was part of the Gateway family. It was after Gateway Conference in 2015. I was part of the ministry team, and afterward, I happily joined other staff and volunteers in the Southlake Campus Auditorium to help clean up. Serving with others in that way after all the hustle and bustle made me feel at home more than ever before.

I LOVE THE SOUND OF CRICKETS. One cricket will drive me crazy with its random chirping.

However, the symphony of a field full of feet fiddlers is beautiful music!

For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

FAMILY Becky, wife of 11 years. Two princesses: Katherine (19 months) and Karis (5 months).

EDUCATION Bachelor’s in music theory/composition from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and several master’s classes in pastoral leadership.

ROLE AT GATEWAY Ministry Coordinator for Guest Experience.

BACKSTORY Born in Greenville, South Carolina; raised in northern Illinois.

36 FEBRUARY 2017

STEVE THOMPSON I’M A BIG GUY. Six foot, five inches, two hundred and none of your business pounds. I have no stealth mode. One time at a restaurant, as we were eating, I had an uncomfortable sinking feeling. Turns out, I was actually sinking! The metal chair leg had bent until I was reclining on the floor. Always a fun moment!

MY FAVORITE WORD IS “ENGAGED.” It’s more than just the incredible period of time before getting married. I like to see husbands and wives engaged with each other during the day, not just in conversation, but in specific and special moments. I like to see dads engaged with their kids. I like to see friends engaged with one another.

GATEWAY IS HOME. I attended the Men’s Summit before becoming a member, and it was incredible to see so many men from all walks of life come together and worship God. Plus, Pastor Sion Alford mentioned he enjoyed firing his AR-15 rifle. I knew I was at home!

LIFE IS JUST BEGINNING. I really enjoy life with my family and friends, but I always keep in mind that we were created for another world. United forever with God, in His Presence unhindered, with family and friends, warriors of the faith, exploring His creation without decay—life to the fullest!

For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

FAMILY Mary, wife of 28 years.

Two children: Nikki (sophomore at Baylor University), Cole (freshman at Grapevine Faith Christian School).

EDUCATION Evangel University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

ROLE AT GATEWAY Associate Campus Pastor.

BACKSTORY Born in Danbury, Connecticut; went to elementary school in Independence, Missouri; and spent junior and senior high in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

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P r o fi l e

KELLEN EBERLING ATTITUDE IS A CHOICE. When I was a high school freshman, my family moved a month into the school year. My new school was a private school, and I was blessed and amazed at what a great school it was compared to what I had experienced the previous year. But I was surprised by the cynical and negative outlooks of the kids who had grown up in the school. I learned in this season that attitude is a choice, and choosing to have a healthy perspective changes everything.

I RAN MY FASTEST 5K EVER AS A JUNIOR IN HIGH SCHOOL. My high school cross country team was competing in a regional meet, and hundreds of people were gathered at the starting line. I was one of the last ones coming up to the line as I had just finished my last warm-up. One of my teammates thought it would be funny to pull my shorts down—except that he didn’t just pull down my shorts. I pulled them up as quickly as possible and then ran as fast as I could.

INMLIY, TIRITY AND OBEY. When I was 19, after a tragic and pivotal life experience, I wrote down these words and carried them with me. The words mean “It’s Not My Life, It’s Yours, Therefore I Relinquish It To You and Obey.” That was the point in my life where I fully surrendered my life to God. I’ve always made this the driving vision and purpose in my life—to obey my Father.

I WAS A STUNT PERFORMER. Casa Bonita is a Mexican restaurant in Denver, Colorado, that offers exciting and fun stage shows, such as pirate shows, gun fighting shows, and gorilla shows. I had the opportunity to perform in sword fighting stunts and get thrown off a cliff down a 30-foot waterfall in a pirate costume! I also wore a gorilla costume and ran through the restaurant scaring little kids.

For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

38 FEBRUARY 2017

FAMILY Savannah, wife of 11 years; five children: Titan (10), Jakin (7), Gavin (6), Haven (4), and Aslan Joy (20 months).

EDUCATION University of Colorado at Denver, then Bible school at International Harvesters Institute in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

ROLE AT GATEWAY Elementary Ministry Coordinator, Gateway Kids.

BACKSTORY Born in Cleburne, Texas, but raised in Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Colorado.

JOSH HALL ANNA AND I ARE BEST FRIENDS. We really mean it when we say that. The first six years of our marriage were spent in fertility treatments, and we discovered together, in the midst of unanswered prayers and disappointed hopes, that Jesus is more than enough in every season.

And He’s certainly made up for the time we spent waiting! We’ve had six children in the last eight years—two girls and then quadruplets! It’s been an unexpected journey and harder than I would’ve wanted for us, but I’m happy to embrace all of it with my best friend.

I WASN’T SURE I BELONGED AT GATEWAY. Five years ago, right after I was hired and we were still in the process of moving down from Minnesota, I was invited to go on a staff retreat. We were doing some freedom ministry exercises, and someone asked the question, “What are some lies you’re believing right now?” The first thing that came to mind was “I don’t belong here.”

The guy next to me looked me in the eye and said, “No. God sent you here, and you need to settle that right now. You’re here, and because of that, you belong.” The Lord did something in my heart that day.

I WORKED FOR A COMPUTER FACTORY. We had 12-hour shifts, and I worked the night shift. I sat at a desk with a thin metal sheet of computer parts and looked into a magnifying glass to find imperfections. It was so monotonous and closed in. I’m still recovering!

I LOVE GOING HOME! The kids bombard me with giant hugs that usually turn into a big wrestling match. I love when we rumble, although the girls never fight fair! I also love watching their relationships with one another grow and seeing how they love each other. Nothing compares to that.

FAMILY Anna, wife of 15 years; five daughters and one son: Zoe (7), Kaytlin (5), Sadie (2), Elle (2), Ivy (2), and Brooks (2).

EDUCATION Seminary in Sweden, then business school at Oral Roberts University.

ROLE AT GATEWAY Associate Campus Pastor.

BACKSTORY For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

Born and raised in Oklahoma; spent junior high and high school in Minnesota.

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P r o fi l e

Gateway Women Presents Laugh! | A Pink Night Thursday, Feb 16 | 7:00 pm Southlake Campus Join us for a night of laughter and fun with two of our favorite Christian comedians, Jonnie W and John Crist.

Jonnie W John Crist

Register today at women.gatewaypeople.com.

40  FEBRUARY 2017

Gateway Women Presents Laugh! | A Pink Night Friday, Feb 17 | 7:00 pm | Dallas Campus Join us for a night of laughter and fun with one of our favorite Christian comedians, Anita Renfroe.

Anita Renfroe

Register today at women.gatewaypeople.com.

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P r o fi l e

Gateway Women Presents Laugh! | A Pink Night Thursday, Feb 16 | 7:00 pm | Frisco Campus Join us for a night of laughter and fun with one of our favorite Christian comedians, Anita Renfroe.

Anita Renfroe

Register today at women.gatewaypeople.com.

42  FEBRUARY 2017

Gateway Women Presents Laugh! | A Pink Night Thursday, Feb 16 | 7:00 pm Grand Prairie Campus Join us for a night of laughter and fun with special guest comedian and songwriter, Mark Lowry.

Mark Lowry

Register today at women.gatewaypeople.com.

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P r o fi l e

Gateway Women Presents Laugh! | A Pink Night Thursday, Feb 16 | 7:00 pm North Fort Worth Campus Join us for a night of laughter and fun with special guest comedian, Jason Earls.

Jason Earls

Register today at women.gatewaypeople.com.

44  FEBRUARY 2017

Gateway Women Presents Laugh! | A Pink Night Thursday, Feb 16 | 7:00 pm | NRH Campus Join us for a night of laughter and fun with one of our favorite Christian comedians, Kerri Pomarolli.

Kerri Pomarolli

Register today at women.gatewaypeople.com.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM  45

MARRIAGETODAY & GATEWAY CHURCH PRESENT

F E AT U R I N G

Jimmy & Karen Evans

John Gray

Tim Ross

Allan Kelsey

Strengths Coach

Conference Emcee

Friday–Saturday, February 10–11 | Gateway Church Southlake Campus The conference will be simulcast to the Dallas, Frisco, Grand Prairie, North Fort Worth, and NRH Campuses.

xo.gatewaypeople.com

READ GATEWAY LIFE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE AT GATEWAYLIFEMAG.COM.