Gateway Life | March 2016 by Gateway Church

MARCH 2016

ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS SEVENTY-FOUR

Two sisters changed their family’s legacy. p. 12

MY PRAYER CHAIR Pastor Mary Jo Pierce shares an excerpt from her newest book about prayer. p. 10

BECAUSE OF YOU Gateway's impact in 2015 and our plans for 2016. p. 16

HOME SWEET HOME How Gateway met Daphnie Pilgrim’s need through the myGateway App. p. 18

This watercolor piece was painted by Gateway member Jackson Wilson. Jackson is going on his first Gateway ministry trip to Guanajuato, Mexico, in March and designed this to go on t-shirts to raise money for the trip. He is a biblical counseling major at The Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University and also works in the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ministry at Gateway.

CALLING ALL CREATIVES!

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

CONTENTS MARCH 2016

COMMENTS

WELCOME

PULSE OUTREACH

AFTER THE STORM Gateway people rally to help with tornado relief. F E AT U R E S

MY PRAYER CHAIR

ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS SEVENTY-FOUR

Pastor Mary Jo Pierce shares an excerpt from her newest book about prayer.

Two sisters changed their family’s legacy.

15 17 18 21

BECAUSE OF YOU

Gateway's impact in 2015 and our plans for 2016.

SONG STORY

Samuel Longfellow and Walker Beach’s “Holy Spirit, Truth Divine”

HOME SWEET HOME How Gateway met Daphnie Pilgrim’s need through the myGateway App.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ACTIVITIES

THE INTERSECTION

PROFILE – TOM LANE

DOWNLOAD THE GATEWAY LIFE APP AND READ GATEWAY LIFE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Now available for iPhone, Android, iPad, and Kindle Fire. For more information, visit gatewaylifemag.com.

OUR VISION is to see people saved, healed, set free, discipled, equipped, empowered, and serving. Gateway is committed to seeing every person BELIEVING in Jesus, BELONGING to family, BECOMING a disciple, and BUILDING His kingdom.

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

W e l come

WELCOME to GATEWAY LIFE SPRING IS ALMOST HERE and as we enter into this new season, I just can’t help but feel excited about Gateway’s growth. We’re launching a new campus in Dallas this month, which will be open just in time for Easter. This will be Gateway’s first time to have Easter services on six different campuses, and I believe our expansion into Dallas is a gift from God. During my quiet time one morning in October, the Lord spoke to me and said, “I’m going to give you a gift today.”

gateway life gatewaylifemag.com Thomas Miller, Senior Pastoral Oversight Lawrence Swicegood, Editor-in-Chief project management Tracey Schwellinger Gena Bohl

2 MARCH 2016

I knew in my spirit He was referring to a way our church would be able to reach and help more people. Later that day, I received a phone call from Dr. Jack Graham at Prestonwood Baptist Church, and he asked if Gateway would be interested in purchasing their Dallas Campus. Even before we toured the facility, we knew God was doing something special. A few weeks later, Prestonwood accepted our offer, and we assembled a Dallas Campus team led by Pastor Tom Lane. I’m so glad Pastor Tom will be the campus pastor because having him there, along with the size of the building and its location, shows the potential of how many people we can reach through that campus.

editorial Stacy Burnett, Managing Editor Daniel Hopkins, Senior Writer/Editor Katie Smith, Staff Writer/Editor Georgette Shuler, Copy Editor photography Cory Hale, Staff Photographer Abrahanny Rodriguez, Contributing Photographer Youngbong Kim, Contributing Photographer

But Dallas isn’t the only area into which we’re expanding. In “Because of You” (page 15), you’ll read about our new Heart for the Kingdom initiatives planned for 2016, including a new campus in Fort Worth and renovations to our Frisco Campus. We’ll also take a look back at some of the amazing things God has done in 2015. And it’s because of you—your serving, your giving, and your praying. Also in this issue of Gateway Life, you’ll read an excerpt from Pastor Mary Jo Pierce’s new book, Adventures In Prayer (page 10). As your pastor, I encourage you to make prayer personal, and I know this article will inspire you to grow in your personal relationship with God. You’ll also enjoy the story of two sisters, Beatrice and Estella Montes, who over the last decade have prayed for their family to come to know the Lord (page 12). I don’t want to spoil the ending, but I’ll just say this: There are a lot of people who have come to Gateway because these women prayed for them. I hope this issue of Gateway Life gets you excited about what God has done in 2015 and the amazing things He’s going to continue to do in 2016!

Pastor Robert Founding Senior Pastor

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

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.

IN RESPONSE TO THE JANUARY GATEWAY LIFE ARTICLE “FALLING FORWARD”

“LOVE THIS ARTICLE ABOUT STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE VERSUS PERFECTION!” @jdelao14 | via Instagram

a 2005 Toyota Tundra truck. The truck came at a most critical time. My 1988 Dodge van broke down at the end of 2015 and was beyond repair. This vehicle was critical to my remodeling/renovation business, and we had no credit to buy another vehicle due to many financial obstacles. My wife, Trish, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma and had surgery. And later on, after the birth of our daughter, she had two more surgeries, unrelated to the melanoma, which resulted in a hospital stay to treat an unidentified infection. The medical bills were mounting, and I was struggling to build this new business since being laid off my previous job. All of this led to bankruptcy and the loss of our home. We had tried every way to get a vehicle, but every door was closed. As a last resort, I applied for a vehicle through Gateway’s car ministry. We received a call from Gateway and were told that a family had written to them because the Holy Spirit had laid it on their hearts to donate their truck,

Say

WHAT?!

Defining Gateway Church Lingo

but they were very specific that it would go to a contractor family that needed a vehicle. We have been so blessed at Gateway—beyond receiving a truck. We appreciate Pastor Robert’s heart of generosity and helping others understand how to live a blessed life!” Rick Wall | via Email

1. MIX56 IS: A. The discotheque located underneath the Southlake Campus. B. An electric handheld mixer. C. Gateway’s ministry for fifth- and sixth-grade students.

2. HABITATION IS: A. What bears do during winter. B. Gateway’s monthly Sunday night service with extended worship, prayer, and ministry. C. A vigorous, Norwegian folk dance. Answers: 1:C 2:B

“I RECEIVED A WONDERFUL BLESSING AT THE FIRST OF THE YEAR:

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 3

PUL SE

XO Conference

IN RESPONSE TO XO CONFERENCE

“This was the best weekend ever. Loving Jesus and finding my love all over again was amazing.” XO Conference

XO Conference

Kathy Wiehler | via Facebook

XO Conference

Gateway Equip

IN RESPONSE TO LAUGHOPOLY: A PINK NIGHT

“I THINK I LAUGHED A LUNG OUT! ANITA RENFROE HAD US IN STITCHES!” Melissa Martin Cheuvront | via Facebook

Laughopoly: A Pink Night

IN RESPONSE TO LAUGHOPOLY: A PINK NIGHT

“An amazing, uplifting, laughed-til-mycheeks-hurt kinda night. Michael Jr. is hilarious!” @ms_stacym | via Instagram

Laughopoly: A Pink Night

HIGH FIVE

BETH HELTON

PASTOR, FREEDOM MINISTRIES

MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT? Just one?! I skipped class in college to play golf with a friend. As I putted out on hole 9, I walked off the green to see my professor standing there watching me, waiting to say hello. WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? A basketball coach! In college, I actually got to be a high school boys’ basketball junior varsity coach and assistant varsity coach for a season. It was so fun! HOBBIES? Hunting! Some people would refer to this as shopping, but it’s really hunting for women. I’m very good at it! WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE? I hope it’s something like, “She was real and helped a lot of people meet Jesus.” I know it won’t be, “Her house was always clean.”

IN RESPONSE TO THE GOD I NEVER KNEW SERIES

“I’m always amazed at what Laine learns in Sunday school at Amazing Kids. Tonight after the service, we were discussing Pastor Robert’s message on The God I Never Knew, and we were listing the benefits of the Holy Spirit. Mollie and Kate said, ‘Power, love, gifts, and ….’ For a second we couldn’t remember the fourth benefit. Then all of a sudden, Laine shouted out, ‘Fruit! It’s fruit! I learned that tonight in Sunday school!’” Kristine Kemp | via Facebook

“SINCE I WAS A SMALL CHILD, I THOUGHT THE HOLY SPIRIT WAS IMAGINARY. IT TOOK ME UNTIL I WAS 31 TO COMPREHEND HE IS REAL.” Charlotte Horrocks | via Facebook

6 MARCH 2016

Keith-Donna Kirkendoll | via Facebook

“LAST SUNDAY’S MESSAGE MADE A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN MY LIFE. FEELING BLESSED!” Sherri Fry Steele | via Facebook

needed to find her a room to rent. I asked so many people if they knew of anyone who had

IF YOU COULD GET COFFEE WITH ANYONE LIVING OR DEAD … Pastor Bill Hybels. I want to personally thank him for making a statement at a conference many years ago that changed my life. He said that women could have the gift of leadership. Until then, I felt like God had given me gifts by mistake. For more about Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

“Sometimes I think the sermons cannot be any better than they are, and then every week, they get better! Today’s message about the Holy Spirit being a person was wonderful and shed so much light on the truth. This series is amazing, and I look forward to it every week. What a perfect way to start out the new year.”

a room to rent. When nothing was available, I posted a request on the myGateway App. To my surprise, I got six responses fairly quickly from members of Gateway. She is now living with a single woman, only 15 minutes away from us and things are going great! We are “My mother was living in California, about to be

incredibly thankful for the myGateway App

homeless, so my husband and I moved her to

and our Gateway family for being the hands

Texas. She stayed with us for a little while, but

and feet of Jesus!”

we weren’t able to house her permanently; we

Jessica Harry | via Email

with his jewels and save the rest. But in December, during Jewel Store weekend, he got all his jewels together that he had been saving all year: 22,000! He told his mom and dad that he wanted to buy Christmas presents for six of his friends with his

jewels. And he even bought his two younger sisters Christmas presents. The cool thing is that his parents never gave him the idea of buying for his friends or sisters. He had the idea all on his own!” Pastor Leda Rupert | via Email

IN RESPONSE TO THE GOD I NEVER KNEW: SONGS FROM GATEWAY DEVOTIONS

“So often I wished I had a convenient way to play the devotional album as I drive to work—now I can! Thanks Gateway Worship for putting the album on Apple Music. Just another one of the many ways Gateway Church lives the saying, ‘We’re all about people.’”

Pastor Mary Jo Pierce | via Instagram

Highlander Sam | via Facebook

“I’M HAVING A REVIVAL IN MY CAR!”

IN RESPONSE TO FIRST CONFERENCE

“Thank you for making conference I’ve ever this conference attended. We could available to those of feel the presence of us who don’t live in the Holy Spirit across Texas. It was the best the airwaves!” Tammy Dean Rolph | via Facebook and most inspiring

“Each speaker was phenomenal! The music was amazing! I’m so thankful for my church and the opportunities to be blessed and be a blessing. First Conference was the buzz around town. I had several doctor appointments in the area, and many doctors and staff members were attending in person and online!” Glenda Lee Canady Cook | via Facebook

Gateway’s 2016 First Conference welcomed 34,949 attendees from around the world. · In December and January, the Gateway Café put together 700 box lunches to help feed first responders and volunteers who helped the victims of the December 26 Tornadoes in North Texas. · In Amazing Kids, we pray for more dogs and grandparents than anyplace in the world. · At the Generate Night of Worship last month, more than 30 singers and musicians took the stage to lead a packed house in worship. · Equip launched its spring semester with 106 classes—the most ever offered in an Equip semester. · Last month, 500 students piled into 9 buses to go to the Gateway Students Winter Camp at Lakeview Camp and Retreat Center in Waxahachie, Texas.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 7

PUL SE

“Devon Laird, 6 years old, is at church all five services almost every weekend because his parents serve faithfully as volunteers on the Altar Ministry team. Every time the Jewel Store came to the NRH Campus, he would only buy something small

Outreach

AFTER THE STORM

Gateway people rally to help with tornado relief.

On December 26, 2015, as Christmas festivities wound down, a series of horrific tornadoes barreled through the Dallas area. Eleven people lost their lives, many were injured, and entire neighborhoods were destroyed. It will be a day not easily forgotten—especially by those who are rebuilding. In the days after the storms, nonprofits rushed in to offer relief, and Gateway rallied with our local ministry partners to help.

HERE’S HOW GATEWAY IS HELPING

Gateway donated to Mercy Gateway provided gift Chefs, a nonprofit organi- cards to AHEM, which is zation committed to serving a coalition of local Hispanic high quality, professionally churches. AHEM distributed prepared meals during local, the gift cards to tornado victims state, and national disasters in Rowlett and Garland and is and emergencies. In the days also ministering the gospel to after the storms, Mercy Chefs those in need. spent about $3,000 per day to ahemdfw.org help feed hot meals to victims, volunteers, and first responders. mercychefs.com

Gateway members (ranging from 14 to over 60 years old) are volunteering through Mission Possible, a nonprofit organization led by Gateway member, Michele Bailey Christensen. In partnership with Samaritan’s Purse, Mission Possible has been removing debris, cutting trees off homes and vehicles, packing personal belongings, cleaning, and praying for victims. missionpossiblerelief@gmail.com

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

G a t eway p r ov i d e d gift cards for Lake Pointe Church. Lake Pointe is a church in Rockwall that was not damaged by the tornadoes. Together with Samaritan’s Purse, they have opened their doors to those who have been displaced. They opened a food pantry (grocery store–style), a clothing bank, and a gift card donation center. Lake Pointe is also helping people by providing counseling and praying with them. lakepointe.org/disasterrelief samaritanspurse.org

The devastation is still so widespread. Hundreds of people are trying to rebuild their lives, homes, and businesses. You can continue to help by praying, giving, and volunteering. For updates on relief efforts, visit bless.gatewaypeople.com. To volunteer, email bless@gatewaypeople.com or missionpossiblerelief@gmail.com.

8 MARCH 2016

TESTIMONIES “Today I shared lunch with a man named Richard. He lived in a fifth-wheel trailer, and when the tornado came through, it blew his uninsured home into a million pieces into the nearby lake. He was able to swim to safety and also to save a neighbor from drowning. He has multiple cuts all over his body but has been unable to find the one thing he longs for—his chihuahua. He must figure out what to do about housing as well. Please keep him in your prayers. He is the reason why we come out and feed people.” Taken from testimony on Mercy Chefs Facebook page.

Rachel and her husband, Chef John Stout, lead the Mercy Chefs’ Dallas base. Here she shares a hot meal with a young girl affected by the tornado in Garland.

“The tornado devastation is as bad as you can imagine.” Pastor Kam Hunt, Bless! (Gateway Global)

“My family and I were evacuated from New Orleans, Louisiana, during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Therefore, when the tornados occurred in Rowlett and Garland, we were compelled to do something. It was truly a blessing for me, my wife, and my fourteen-year-old daughter to be able to give back. Through serving, we shared the love of Jesus with the people affected by the storms. The love of Christ can truly change a person’s life in tragedy.” Ernest, Annette, and Aaliyah Johnson, Members of Gateway Church North Fort Worth, who volunteered with Mission Possible.

“When the tornado ripped through Rowlett, Lucy learned that her neighbor, Koko, a 73-year-old widow originally from Tokyo, did not have home insurance. So Lucy took Koko to a local ‘market’ where different organizations and services were gathered in a central location to tell homeowners what relief services they could receive. While there, a volunteer met Koko and told her not to worry and that Samaritan’s Purse would be glad to help her with her home. The next day, volunteers showed up at Koko’s house and got right to work. They ripped up flooring and started securing blue tarp across her roof. In a quiet moment, Samaritan’s Purse team leader Marv explained to Koko about God’s unending love and how that love was demonstrated when Jesus Christ died on the cross for her sins and then when God raised Him to life. Marv asked Koko if she would like to receive Christ as her Savior and Lord, and Koko committed her life to Him.” GL

Koko is grateful for the support she received from Samaritan’s Purse after the tornado.

Taken from testimony on samaritanspurse.org.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 9

MY PRAYER CHAIR An excerpt from Pastor Mary Jo Pierce’s book Adventures in Prayer .

I DIDN’T ALWAYS HAVE A PRAYER CHAIR. For a long time, I was like a nomad, roaming from bed to couch to chair and from patio to kitchen table to lap desk. I knew I should have a quiet time and place to pray, but none of those places felt like home. None of them felt settled. I needed a place, a regular place, to meet God face-to-face. As I thought about my place and what it should be, God opened my eyes and I saw it—the chair. I moved it to a special corner and I put a table next to it. I knew I was home after I placed my Bible, journal, and pen on the small table—my place. Through this simple act, I established a dedicated spot, a chair that had only one purpose—to meet God there. This would be my tent of meeting (Exodus 33:7) or my secret place (Psalm 91:1).

Over time, this chair has become a place of comfort, Finished for today … counsel, and conversation. This chair has become a setFinished for now … apart, consecrated, and holy place for me to meet with the I have now transferred everything into the Father’s care. living God. This is a treasured chair—my sanctuary and I also trust that the Lord will continue speaking with me as hiding place. I go throughout the day. For now, I will move forward with My prayer chair started as the place for my morning the things I do know. meeting with God. However, over the years, it has become One young mother heard me teach about my prayer the “seat of counsel” when I face decisions, questions, and chair. She went home and began clearing a space for her fears. It is in those times that I retreat to my chair. On my “tent of meeting” chair. Her young children soon became lap sits an open Bible with my journal next to me, and often curious about their mother’s activities. Why was she mova facial tissue in hand. I seek His thoughts, words, direc- ing a chair into her bedroom specifically to sit and pray? tions, and peace. “What are you doing, Mom?” they asked. Here in this chair, I am me. No one knows me more than She responded, “We can all hear God anywhere and He does. I don’t have to pretend to be braver, stronger, or talk to Him at any time, but this is my special chair where smarter. This is my safe place to be totally transparent, honI will sit and talk to God and listen to Him.” So, she began est, and real. This is my authentic altar for prayer. In my to use the chair. honesty, God accepts me. In this place, He meets me with A few days later, her six-year-old son approached her kindness, wisdom, mercy, grace, and forgiveness. This is again. He asked, “Mom, I need to talk to God—can I use the most adventurous place I’ve ever been. So many amazing exchanges happen in this chair. your chair?” She told him that he could, so he sat down in Sometimes I feel like a spectator and say to myself, “Did I it. The mother watched his facial expressions; the boy was having an intense internal conversation with God. After really find this scripture?! … It is God’s perfect word for this a resounding “Amen,” he shook his head and said, “That situation. Did this idea really come to me? It must be God was a really serious moment right there!” Then he told his because I would never have thought of that myself!” I’ve mother that the Lord was going to help him start making even been known to declare out loud, “God, You are so fun!” At other times, I have no words. I cannot give full expres- better choices at school. The mother was amazed. Bringing sion to my pain, worry, or fear. On those days, I sit—just that chair into the house helped her focus her prayer life; sit—and He ministers to me. I sit longer. Then His grace yet, how could she have known that the chair itself would washes over me. I sit even longer. His love embraces my be an answer to prayer? heart, and tears easily flow.

“THIS IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS PLACE I’VE EVER BEEN.” Do I always leave my prayer chair with clear direction? No, not always. Often my prayers and cares are about others, like family and friends. I pray for those who are hurting, struggling, lost, sick, or wounded. I will talk to God until I feel the burden lift and the fear evaporates. Even if I don’t know all the answers, I leave my chair believing that God is working, and I have joined with Him.

MY MESSAGE TO YOU

Jesus often went away from people to pray. And one of the greatest joys of your life will be the uninterrupted time you spend with your heavenly Father. The best way to make sure you have that time is to intentionally establish a place to pray. Make it a sacred place, set apart, and safe. If you are willing to make this small move, I promise that the Lord will meet you there face-to-face. You will have conversations, revelations, and answers to your prayers. I know you will grow from that special place. You don’t need a designated set-apart place to meet with God. But trust me, you will want one. GL Mary Jo Pierce is the pastor of Prayer & Intercession at Gateway. Her new book, Adventures in Prayer, will be released on March 15 and will be available in the Gateway Bookstore and Mardel. To learn more about Pastor Mary Jo, visit maryjopierce.com. Join Pastor Mary Jo for a book signing on March 15 at The King’s University from 7:00–8:30 pm. There will be worship and light refreshments.

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ONE+ONE= SEVENTY-FOUR Two sisters changed their family’s legacy

by Katie Smith

IN 2000, AFTER THE DEATH OF HER FATHER

and a trying divorce from her husband of 24 years, Beatrice Montes began drinking. Her life was in shambles. “One night, I came home scared. I had been drinking, and when I looked in the mirror, I said, ‘This is not me,’” she says.

She felt hopeless and battled with deep the fire Jesus had ignited in Estella depression and thoughts of suicide, and Beatrice. “They were suddenly but she thought of her kids and then different, and some of the family didn’t remembered a friend who was con- want to hear what they had to say,” says stantly inviting her to a Bible study. Patricia Garcia, Beatrice and Estella’s She thought, Why not? Everything else niece. “We wouldn’t want them to I’ve tried hasn’t worked. “I went and I participate in family events because didn’t think that the women there were we didn’t want to hear about God. real. They were so peaceful, and I just But they kept on.” The family mocked didn’t understand it at first,” Beatrice Beatrice and Estella, calling them fake says. She called her sister Estella, who and bringing up their past mistakes was having her own set of difficult as reasons why this new life wouldn’t times, and invited her to come check stick. Several family members angrily out the Bible study too. “We were fed told Beatrice and Estella to quit talking about Jesus. Estella remembers one up with our lives,” Estella says. And it night in particular when she walked was at this low point they both found Jesus. Two years later, after checking to another sister’s house to spend time out several churches, they walked into with her family. They were about to Gateway for the first time and knew watch a movie, and they knew Estella they were home. wouldn’t agree with it, so they told her Beatrice and Estella, two sisters in to go home. Estella left discouraged. a family of ten siblings, began to go to “There were many times we thought, classes and events together, attend- we’re not doing this right,” Estella says. ing everything and anything Gateway Beatrice agrees, “We were just learning offered. And they started telling their and growing.” Several years of tension between unsaved family about Jesus. But their tight-knit, predominantly the sisters and the rest of their family Catholic family did not understand followed. Beatrice spent much time and energy trying to bring her teenage children to church, which often ended in grueling arguments like the one that spilled out onto the front porch and ended with her son shouting, “You can’t make me!” Then she had a breakthrough. “I remember crying to the Lord and telling Him I missed my family,” Beatrice says. “And He told me He wanted to teach me things they weren’t ready to hear yet.” She realized

she couldn’t drag them or force them into a relationship with God. So she finally released her family, entrusting their hearts to the Lord’s hands. Then something interesting happened. After years of ostracizing the sisters, some of the family held an informal

“They were suddenly different, and some of the family didn’t want t hear what they had to say.” GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 13

Beatrice, Estella, and their family at the NRH Campus.

meeting about Beatrice and Estella. They all decided to let Beatrice and Estella come back to family events and accept them. Even with the whole Jesus thing, they were still family. And it had an unexpected result. One by one, family members started accepting Beatrice and Estella’s offers to visit Gateway. A few cousins or aunts and uncles would trickle in on a weekend just to hang out with the rest of the family. For Patricia, it was her kids (who loved going to children’s ministry) and her aunts who kept her coming back each week, even when she wasn’t sure about Gateway or this new way of life. “I know now that God was using my family to get to me,” Patricia says. “And

when I look back on that time, I think, God, why did I wait so long?” Now, 74 members of Beatrice and Estella’s family attend Gateway. And they travel in packs. Name something happening at Gateway, and they’re probably there. They’ve had 10 to 12 family members get baptized all in one service, and they even have 20 ladies within the family already signed up to attend Pink Impact this year! This family, who dismissed Beatrice and Estella at first, can’t get enough of each other and what the Lord is doing in their lives. “God is not only getting rid of certain things in our lives but is completely erasing family curses and

“I remember crying to the Lord and telling Him I missed my family.” 14 MARCH 2016

strongholds—drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, divorce, abuse, molestation, rape, abortion, unwed mothers and fathers, religiosity, unforgiveness, pride, bitterness, stubbornness, shame, secrets, rudeness, bad attitudes,” Patricia says. “I’m not ashamed of it. God can turn all that bad into good.” And several family members are now Gateway Group leaders, co-leaders, mentors, and volunteers within Gateway, using their experiences to tell others about God’s goodness. The family is changed for good, and others are still trickling in. As Patricia was thanking the Lord for it all one day, God showed her a vision: It was a picture, as if through a camera lens, with Beatrice and Estella in the center. And as the camera zoomed out, it created a huge panoramic portrait of her smiling family who had been saved through the seed planted within these two sisters many years ago. By God’s grace, the two have become seventy-four. Estella’s son John Paul sums it up like this, “If God can change our family, God can do anything.” GL

BECAUSE

Y O U

God did such incredible things at Gateway Church in 2015, and so much of it is because of you. You served. You prayed. You gave. You invited a friend to church. And people’s lives were changed as a result! As we look back on the statistics from the year, we will also highlight many of the stories behind those statistics. So, let’s praise Him for what He’s already done as we pursue God’s vision and build His kingdom together this year.

2015 YEAR IN REVIEW SALVATIONS

2,854

“TODAY, I GAVE MY LIFE TO CHRIST. It all started

Total Professions of Faith in Christ

382 Truthical How Do I Know? 502 Outreach Series 472 Easter Weekend 1,498 Other Weekends

at a café. I was late to church, I couldn’t find a parking spot, and the North Fort Worth Campus Auditorium was full. My sister-in-law and I decided to stop by the café to get some coffee and breakfast while we watched the sermon from the overflow room. We couldn’t find a table, but a lady, Raenell Robinson, offered for us to sit with her at her table. We gladly accepted. Right before we had finished eating and were about to leave, she happened to ask us how long we had been attending Gateway. This conversation led to the question, ‘Have you accepted Christ into your life?’ to which we responded ‘No.’ She took the time to explain to us what this actually meant. A few minutes later, we were all hand in hand in prayer, accepting Christ into our lives.” Alisha Turner | via Facebook (Gateway Life, August 2015)

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 15

BAPTISMS

2,485

“TODAY, I had the beautiful opportu-

Total Baptisms 1,125 Southlake Campus 201 Frisco Campus Prairie 120 Grand Campus Fort Worth 701 North Campus 338 NRH Campus

nity to baptize my parents. Words cannot describe my joy and love for this moment and what I feel for my mom and dad. They have provided me with so much throughout my life and have been with me through the thick and the thinnest of thin. I love them both with all my heart, and all I can do is praise God for all He has done and all He will continue to do in our lives.”

Jenelle Garcia | via Instagram (Gateway Life, August 2015)

ATTENDANCE

5°/°

Weekly Average Attendance

Increase from 2014 to 2015 2014 2015

27,271 28,676

Weekly Average Attendance per Campus

13,919 Southlake Campus 2,955 Frisco Campus 1,789 Grand Prairie Campus

North Fort 6,395 Worth Campus 3,618 NRH Campus 8,578 Live Streaming*

“IN JULY OF LAST YEAR, on a Saturday

night, I was very down and out. Sitting in my apartment in Keller, I asked God to help me, and He spoke gently to me to get out and find a Saturday night service. I found one and went into the building, but it wasn’t the right place for me. I left in tears. I made my way back down Beach toward Western Center and noticed a church … it was the North Fort Worth Campus of Gateway. I made my way in and worshipped. Soon after that night I visited the Southlake Campus, and I’ve been going ever since. So grateful!”

Becka Lynn Materne | via Facebook (Gateway Life, September 2015)

*Weekly Views of Weekend Service

For even more exciting statistics, including a special video message from Pastor Robert, check out our interactive annual report at annualreport.gatewaypeople.com.

16 MARCH 2016

“HOLY SPIRIT, TRUTH DIVINE”

“Holy Spirit, Truth Divine” is on The God I Never Knew: Songs from Gateway Devotions. Available at Gateway Bookstore and iTunes.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 17

SONG STORY

revised version called “Holy Spirit, Light Divine.” He started to take them apart and meld them into one. “It was kind of like Jurassic Park when they took the DNA code of a lizard and added it to a dinosaur and then just filled in the missing holes,” Walker says with a laugh. He took a few verses from by Katie Smith the original hymn and another verse from the second verIf you went back in time to tell Pastor Walker Beach he sion and then wrote some of his own lyrics to give the song would one day give old hymns a fresh sound, he wouldn’t continuity. “I loved some of the words used in the original have believed you. “When I was 21 years old, a pastor at lyrics, like ‘dawn upon,’ ‘glow within,’ and ‘kindle every high the church I was attending asked me to help with worship. desire,’” Walker says, “I thought those were really descripI had just gotten saved, and I said to him, ‘I know a couple tive words for what the Holy Spirit does.” hundred songs, and none of them are Christian,’” Walker To further build on the song, Walker created his own laughs. “Hymns were all new to me.” Now, after years of melody to go along with the words. He’d never heard the helping Gateway Worship remake several hymns, you could original melody of the song, but just seeing the lyrics gave say he is a seasoned veteran. him an idea for a new one. So he started to play and sing it. So this year, knowing that The God I Never Knew: A “Sometimes I think people dismiss hymns because some of Gateway Devotional was about the Holy Spirit, Walker the melodies are square and don’t sound current, but the started searching for hymns that had to do with the Holy richness is in the text,” Walker says. “Maybe it just needs a Spirit for the accompanying Gateway Worship album. He different melody. We do that with songs all the time when came across very few, but two hymns stuck out to him: someone submits them to be produced. Why should that Samuel Longfellow’s “Holy Spirit, Truth Divine” and a be any different for a song that’s 300 years old?” Walker kept the song’s original structure (four verses and no chorus, like a traditional hymn) and repeated verse three because of its prayerful plea: “Holy Spirit, right divine, dwell within, this will of mine / Cast down every idol throne, reign supreme, and reign alone.” By having Lauren Dunn’s passionate voice sing these lyrics, Walker breathed new life into this hymn. “Our intention for doing this with a hymn is never to just add another song on a record,” Walker says, “it’s always been to help bring a rich hymn to the modern church.” GL SAMUEL LONGFELLOW AND WALKER BEACH’S

How Gateway met Daphnie Pilgrim’s need through the myGateway App by DANIEL HOPKINS

DAPHNIE PILGRIM’S HUSBAND, SCOTT, was having a tough day engrained in New York City with three young children, at work. As a pediatric cardiologist at a hectic hospital two medical careers (Daphnie was a hospital administrain New York City, dealing with stress was part of the job. tor), and a strong commitment to their church, Brooklyn But that afternoon, he decided to see if there were any Tabernacle. In fact, Daphnie and Scott met while singing other employment options. After an Internet search, the in the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. nearest job opening for his highly specialized skill was at Daphnie laughs when she recounts that initial converCook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, more than sation about moving to Texas, in part because Scott was so 1,500 miles away. persistent. He sent his resume to Cook’s, almost on a whim, “What if we moved to Texas?” he emailed Daphnie. and received a job offer. Daphnie still wasn’t interested. She replied “no” so quickly that she didn’t even remem- “Why don’t you just come down to Fort Worth with me for ber the conversation. After all, the two were deeply a day and see if you like it?” he asked her. “You can get your

18 MARCH 2016

nails done and go shopping.” She acquiesced, and much to hoped for and within months, all signs of cancer were gone. her surprise, she enjoyed the trip. “It was a nice little trip,” It was a miraculous recovery, and she says it was more of a spiritual battle than a physical one. she says. “I sort of fell in love with Texas.” That’s when she began to seriously consider making Now, she’s an active member of the Gateway Worship the move. One of her first orders of business was finding a choir and has regained the energy to keep up with her kids. church. “We weren’t going to move to another city without But when she talks about the difficult time she spent recovfinding a good church,” she says. Gateway quickly turned ering from cancer, she does so with a surprising perspective. “It was a sweet time,” she says. “I needed God every up on an Internet search and after watching their service online—before they ever stepped foot into the building—it minute—every hour. It was a truly dark moment, but my felt like home. “We fell in love with Gateway,” says Daphnie. connection with God was amazing.” “I felt like it was a healthy church environment.” For Daphnie, Not many people would have such a positive outlook for that was the icing on the cake. She could see that God was such a difficult time. Daphnie attributes her perspective to using this move to do something specific in her family, and what happened during the crucial hours after they posted in February 2014, they got the keys to their new home in their prayer requests on myGateway. They returned home from church and spent the afternoon doing research on Southlake—minutes away from Gateway’s main campus. Several months later, Daphnie and Scott’s new life took breast cancer. “The information on the Internet is quite a drastic turn when they learned some devastating news. graphic and harsh,” says Daphnie. “Taking it all in was Her doctor diagnosed her with aggressive stage-2 breast the darkest moment in the whole process.” They went to cancer, and at 36 years old, the news left her in shock. “It was terrible—just terrible,” she says. “When we found out, we were swimming in a sea of despair.” The fact that Scott is a doctor certainly didn’t help. “Knowing the possible side effects and complications of treatment heightened my stress level,” she says. Both had seen families torn apart by cancer, and in the days that followed the diagnosis, hopeless thoughts flooded their minds. They received the news on a Friday afternoon, and on Sunday they were at church. Despite not knowing very bed too disheartened to even sleep. She describes it as the many people yet, Pastor Robert shared an announcement sink-or-swim moment that would determine the next few that would connect them to thousands of other Gateway months. Would they have enough faith and courage to trust members. He introduced the myGateway App, saying it’s in God? That night, it seemed impossible. “We cried and a great place to connect with other church members. On prayed together all night,” she says. “I would get enough the way home, Scott and Daphnie each downloaded the app strength to console him and minutes later I would break and posted prayer requests for her healing. “The prayers down and he would pray for me.” It went on like that until trickled in as other people downloaded the app,” she says. the morning, but something strange was happening at the “These are people I clearly don’t know, and I might not same time. Both of their phones were buzzing nonstop. ever get to meet them. But they were praying for me and “Who’s texting me at three in the morning?” Daphnie recalls encouraging me.” thinking. The buzzing came from notifications every time She would need all the encouragement she could get someone prayed for them on the myGateway App. There in the coming months. The surgery to remove the cancer were nearly 100 notifications by morning. and subsequent chemotherapy left her feeling weak, and Just before daybreak, they finally strung together a few there were times caring for her children was difficult. One minutes of sleep, and when they woke up something had morning, on her way to the kitchen to make breakfast, she changed. “Scott looked at me and said, ‘We’re going to be struggled to make it down the flight of stairs. “While I was fine,’” says Daphnie. “Those prayers carried us through and going down the stairs, I fell,” she says. “I got on the couch gave us the strength that we needed to face this trial, and it and just laid there for about 20 minutes before I had the made me realize that the body of Christ is our real family.” GL strength to get up and fix the kids breakfast.” Though she was going through difficult trials, Daphnie was a textbook patient. Through the surgery and chemo- The myGateway App is available for download on Apple and Android devices. For therapy, everything went as smoothly as doctors could have more information, visit my.gatewaypeople.com.

“IT WAS A TRULY DARK MOMENT, BUT MY CONNECTION WITH GOD WAS AMAZING.”

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GATEWAY DALLAS

NEW BELIEVERS

FRESH START

If you’ve recently given your life to the Lord for the first time or as a recommitment, visit our Fresh Start Booth in the Lobby. We’d love to meet you, answer any of your questions, and give you a free devotional to help you begin your new life as a believer! Contact: Terri Cooke, 817.552.7601, freshstart@gatewaypeople.com

GROUPS

YOU BELONG IN A GATEWAY GROUP!

If you want to get connected and make new friends in the Dallas area, join a group! To find a group, visit groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Rachel Kevil, 817.552.7486, groups@gatewaypeople.com

MEN

MEN’S MINISTRY

Our vision is to see men “Seek God First” in every area of their lives by providing opportunities that bring men into a more direct relationship with God and each other. To learn about Men’s Nights, Men’s Brigade, small groups, prayer times, and more, visit men.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: David Rivera, 817.552.3631, men@gatewaypeople.com

MEMBERSHIP

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Apr 2 | 9:30–11:30 am

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: Kelly O’Briant, 469.801.7222, ctvdal@gatewaypeople.com

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYDALLAS

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking to get involved and be part of a team? We need people to be Guest Central and Welcome Center hosts, parking lot attendants, ushers, and greeters. For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kelly O’Briant, 469.801.7222, servedal@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN

PINK CONNECTION NIGHT

Thursday, Apr 14 | 7:00–9:00 pm Join Pastor Debbie Morris, Elaine Fisher, and Edra Hughes for a special night of connection and ministry with Pink (Gateway’s women’s ministry) at the Dallas Campus. Contact: Megan Spurling, 469.801.7250, pinkdal@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 21

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY FRISCO

EQUIP FAMILY AND THE TRAVELING PARENT

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYFRISCO

PRAYER TOOLS: INTERCESSION

HEALING

Sunday, Mar 13 | 9:00 am | Classroom B God made you to have a joyful, life-giving connection with Him and to enjoy a sense of purpose and fulfillment when you pray. Join us and discover how to grow in love with God and be empowered by Him through prayer. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.522.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

HEALING MINISTRY

Sunday, Mar 20 | 9:00 am | Classroom B

Tuesdays | 6:30 pm | The Mix

Many of us spend a significant portion of the week traveling for our jobs, and your family may face obstacles and issues others do not. Join Pastor Jeff Anderson as we discuss the very real challenges you face as a traveling parent and real solutions to keep your family strong. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.522.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

Whether you’re sick, hurting, or suffering, our desire is to pray for your physical and emotional well-being. For more information, visit healing.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.552.5868, healingfrs@gatewaypeople.com

FAITH AND REASON

Join us for a powerful night of ministry and healing in worship with Pastor Rita Springer! Children’s ministry is available. Contact: Connie Brown at 817.522.5868, healingfrs@gatewaypeople.com

Sunday, Mar 20 | 12:30 pm | Classroom B Faith and reason are naturally at odds with each other. While having faith doesn’t require us to ignore reason, reason does have the potential to limit our faith. In this class, we’ll dig into these two topics with Dr. Jon Huntzinger and gain a deeper understanding of the way God has made us and our brilliant minds. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.522.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY

Thursdays, Mar 17–May 12 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium We all need a plan for our money, and Financial Peace University (FPU) presents biblical, practical steps to show you how to get rid of debt, manage your money, spend and save wisely, and much more! Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown at 817.522.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com.

FREEDOM FREEDOM BASICS

Saturdays, Mar 5–Apr 2 | 5:45 pm | Classroom B These four exciting classes contain the essential principles of freedom and lay the groundwork for you to hear who God made you to be. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.522.5868, freedomfrs@gatewaypeople.com

INTERMEDIATE FREEDOM TRAINING

Thursday–Saturday, Mar 31–Apr 2 | The Mix This is the second of a two-part process that gives you the tools to minister freedom to others. Come be equipped to lead others to a new level of hearing God and receiving His freedom. Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.522.5868, freedomfrs@gatewaypeople.com

22 MARCH 2016

NIGHT OF PRAYER AND WORSHIP WITH RITA SPRINGER

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

Tuesday, Mar 1 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

MARRIAGE & FAMILY

GUEST EXPERIENCE ORIENTATION

Saturday, Mar 12 | 4:00 pm | Classroom B

Serve on a Guest Experience team! Come to this orientation to find out more about helping us create an atmosphere where people can encounter the Lord. Contact: Leigh-Taylor Hester, 817.552.3638, servefrs@gatewaypeople.com

HABITATION SERVE TEAM

EXPECTANT COUPLES

Sundays, Feb 21–Mar 13 | 12:30 pm | Classroom B We want to help you prepare to be first-time parents! You’ll learn about the adjustments that come with having a new baby, practical health issues, and general tips. Register at parentinglife.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.522.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com.

We are looking for people to help with Guest Experience at our monthly Habitation services. Come serve with us at this powerful service! Contact: Leigh-Taylor Hester, 817.552.3638, servefrs@gatewaypeople.com

YOUNG ADULTS SEVEN COLLECTIVE

Saturday, Mar 12 | 5:45 pm | Auditorium

MEN MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, Mar 19 | 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. Register at men.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Allie Wilke, 817.328.2088, menfrs@gatewaypeople.com

Are you between the ages of 18 and early 30s and looking to get plugged in? Join other young adults for Gateway’s Saturday night service—and dinner after! We also meet every second and fourth Tuesday night for worship, fun, and the Seven message simulcast from the Southlake Campus. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, sevenfrs@gatewaypeople.com

MEN’S MINISTRY NIGHT

Thursday, Mar 3 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium Join us for an evening of worship and the Word as we press into the presence of the Lord. We will have a time of prayer, prophetic ministry, and worship as we gather to enjoy food and fellowship. Contact: Allie Wilke, 817.328.2088, menfrs@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Healing Ministry | 6:30 pm | The Mix WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium

PRAYER PRAYER TOOLS: TENTOLOGY

Sundays, Feb 21–Mar 13 | 9:00 am “Tentology” is a made-up word, but it encompasses what it looks like when you meet with God. In this class taught by Pastor Mary Jo Pierce, you’ll learn how meeting with God in a specific place, outside they busyness of life, can drastically change your prayer life. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.552.5868, prayerfrs@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

GATEWAY GRAND PRAIRIE

EQUIP

EQUIP SPRING SEMESTER

Equip is in session for the spring! We have Freedom Basics, Jewish Ministries, and Practical Training in Prophetic Ministry classes. To see class times and to register, visit equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Amanda Cheatham, 972.314.9084, equipgrp@gatewaypeople.com

HEALING HEALING MINISTRY

Sundays | 12:00–1:00 pm | Classroom 2D

OUTREACH

BLESS! LOCAL OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 9:00 am–2:00 pm First Saturday of the Month | 9:00 am–2:00 pm People That Care Center Come use your gift to serve and minister God’s grace to families in need at our local food pantry. People That Care (PTC) Center is located at 2129 Galveston Street in Grand Prairie. Contact: Mack Barron, 972.262.8318, mack.barron@ptccenter.org

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYGRP

WOMEN

PINK IMPACT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Friday–Saturday, May 13–14 | Fort Worth Convention Center We have volunteer spots available for Pink Impact 2016, and we’d love for you to join us! Volunteers receive a discounted rate starting at $75/ticket. To learn more and to register, visit pinkimpact.com/volunteer. Contact: Angela Wescott, 972.314.9088, pinkgrp@gatewaypeople.com

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

Healing Ministry is now moving to Sundays! If you need prayer for physical or emotional healing, we would love for you to join us. Contact: Jackie Alexander, 972.314.9076, healinggrp@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE & FAMILY MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

Sundays | 9:30 am | Ministry Center (2410 N Carrier Pkwy) Is your marriage struggling? We provide scriptural equipping, encouragement, and prayer support. No registration required. Contact: Bri Kramer, 972.314.9000, marriagegrp@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking to get involved and be a part of a team? With the reopening of our building, we are looking for people to be Guest Central and Welcome Center hosts, parking lot attendants, ushers, and greeters. Contact: Joel Maldonado, 972.314.9108, gxpgrp@gatewaypeople.com

SEVEN (YOUNG ADULTS)

Tuesdays | 6:30 pm | Auditorium We need volunteers to be an essential part in helping others meet Jesus and facilitate our growing community of young adults! Contact: Zach Faught, 972.314.4725, sevengrp@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENTS FIRST LOOK

First Wednesday of the Month | 6:30 pm

AMAZING KIDS VOLUNTEER & PAID POSITIONS

We’re looking for Amazing Kids team members to help us shape the next generation for the future God has planned for them! We have volunteer and paid positions available in all ages at our campus. Contact: Courtney Watkins, 972.314.9099, kidsjobsgrp@gatewaystaff.com

If you’re interested in serving with Gateway Students, come visit a service! You’ll meet our staff, shadow another leader, and hear our heart and vision for the next generation. Registration is not required. Contact: Lauren Sheppard, 817.552.7465, firstlook@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Seven (Young Adults, 18–Early 30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium WEDNESDAYS »» Pray First | 8:00 am | The Mix

AMAZING KIDS JEWEL STORE

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

Hey Amazing Kids, be sure to bring your jewels for our next Jewel Store weekend! Contact: Dusty Petree, 817.552.7298, kidsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

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

Mar 12–13 | After Weekend Services | Classroom 2A

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Stay connected with us!

GATEWAY NORTH FORT WORTH

BAPTISM CHURCHWIDE WATER BAPTISMS

GATEWAYNFW

KIDS

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

Apr 16–17 | After Weekend Services

Mar 19–20 | After Each Weekend Service

AMAZING KIDS JEWEL STORE

TECH ARTS & IT VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION

We would like to stand with you as you publicly declare your decision to surrender your life to the Lord. This event is open to everyone and follows each service at each campus. Register at baptism.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Donya Allen, 817.552.5899, baptismnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Hey Amazing Kids, be sure to bring your jewels for our next Jewel Store! Contact: TJ Allen, 817.552.5852, kidsnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Get involved in live audio, video, or lighting production with Tech Arts, or assist IT with website, ministry tech, or Help Desk support. Training is provided (no prior experience required)! Contact: Debbie Kramer, 682.223.6939, avl@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP EQUIP & SINGLE PARENT FAMILY NIGHT

Mondays Through May 23 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium Join us for Equip and Single Parent Family Night on the same night! Come meet new people, grow spiritually, and get equipped to fulfill your calling. Children’s ministry is available. For more information, visit equip.gatewaypeople.com or singleparentlife.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, equipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

FREEDOM

KIDS KAIROS

Tuesday, Jul 12 | Auditorium An appointed time for children (ages 8–12) to connect with God and hear Him speak to them about their identities. One parent is required to attend KAIROS prior to registering their child for Kids KAIROS. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE & FAMILY MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

These four classes were designed to set the stage for you to begin your journey toward true freedom in Christ. For more information or to register, email freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com or spanishfreedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075

XTREME CHARACTER CHALLENGE HIKING TRIP

MENDING THE SOUL

If you’re struggling with unresolved hurt from abuse, join us for this class that will help you break patterns and overcome shame. For more information on group times and locations, email pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christy Atkinson, 817.552.3657, pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com

HEALING

Come join us for a time of corporate worship and prayer with Rita Springer, Pastor Samantha Golden, and the ladies of Pink North Fort Worth. For more information, email pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christy Atkinson, 817.552.3657, pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com

RESCUED

Thursdays, Beginning Mar 3 | 6:30 pm | The Mix

Mar 10–13 | Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas

Gateway Men is partnering with The 4th Musketeer ministry to offer this great hiking trip! For more information or to register, visit the4thmusketeer.org. Contact: Matt Osgood, 817.552.7581, mennfw@gatewaypeople.com

OUTREACH Saturday, Mar 19

Join us this Easter as we minister to refugee families alongside World Relief. You will have the opportunity to demonstrate the love of God to families who have been uprooted and placed in a foreign environment. For more information, visit bless.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Matt Osgood, 817.552.7581, outreachnfw@gatewaypeople.com

HABITATION PRAYER TEAM

Sunday, Mar 13 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium 1st & 3rd Mondays | 7:00–8:30 pm Come let us agree with you and God in prayer for your physical healing! Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com

24 MARCH 2016

Are you recovering from betrayal or sexual addiction? Join us for this opportunity of healing and restoration. Register by emailing pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christy Atkinson, 817.552.3657, pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

WORLD RELIEF EASTER OUTREACH

PRAYER HEALING MINISTRY

WILD (WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT)

Discover and develop your specific gifts of leadership. For more information, email pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christy Atkinson, 817.552.3657, pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com

Thursday, Mar 24 | 7:00 pm

Is your marriage struggling? We provide scriptural equipping, encouragement, and prayer support. No registration required. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, marriagenfw@gatewaypeople.com

MEN

WOMEN

PINK NIGHT OF PRAYER AND WORSHIP

Sundays | 9:30 am | North Fort Worth Offices (7451 N Beach St | Suite 100)

FREEDOM BASICS

Saturdays, Mar 26–Apr 16 | 4:00 pm | Compass A

Sunday, Mar 20 | 2:00 pm

Join our team for a time of fellowship, worship, and prayer before all of our Habitation services in 2016! Preservice prayer begins at 5:15. Contact: Tagi Takape, 817.328.2061, prayernfw@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

GATEWAY NRH

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT SPRING BREAK Mar 14–18

To allow our volunteers, staff, and families to enjoy spring break, children’s ministry for Tuesday family groups and Wednesday Pink groups will not be available this week.

EQUIP

GATEWAYNRH

MARRIAGE & FAMILY MARRIAGE REVOLUTION

Saturdays, Apr 2–May 21 | 5:45 pm | Classroom A Marriage Revolution is an eight-week course designed to grow, strengthen, and empower your marriage. Whatever the condition of your marriage, God will do abundantly more than you can imagine. Register at marriedlife.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

BECOMING ONE (PREMARRIAGE CLASS)

Saturdays, Apr 2–23 | 4:00–6:00 pm | Chat Room

NRH EQUIP CLASSES

This month we are offering a wide range of Equip classes, featuring Jewish Equip, Home Buyer’s Education, topical freedom classes, and Money & Marriage. For more information, visit the Equip booth in the Lobby or visit equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Danny Hageman, 817.328.2024, equipnrh@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS

This four-week class will inspire and equip you to create a marriage that weathers the storms of life, brings unity, and fulfills dreams. Whether you’re pre-engaged, engaged, or newly married, come learn what the Bible has to say about marriage. Register at premarriedlife.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

MEN’S PRAYER

Wednesdays | 6:30–7:30 am | Lobby Gateway Men gather every Wednesday morning with a mission to pray for the men of our church. We worship and pray for men’s hearts to be turned toward God. We also lift up the needs that men carry as the leaders of their homes, businesses, and communities. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, mennrh@gatewaypeople.com

Mar 5–6 | 10 Minutes Before Each Weekend Service Auditorium

Mar 5–6 | After Each Weekend Service | Court Room Bring your jewels to spend at the Jewel Store! Jewels can be earned by bringing your Bible to class, returning Replay sheets, and more. Contact: Amy Sellars, 817.552.7342, kidsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

PRAYER TEAM

If you’re interested in being on the NRH Prayer Team and receiving weekly prayer requests from the NRH Campus congregation, email prayernrh@gatewaypeople.com.

PRAY FIRST

Monday, Mar 7 | 7:00 am | Auditorium On the first Monday of every month, we come together as a congregation to start the month off with a time of worship and prayer. Contact: Katherine Hesami, 817.552.3600, prayernrh@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN

PINK IMPACT 2016 VOLUNTEERS

Friday–Saturday, May 13–14

We’d love for you to serve with us at the Fort Worth Convention Center for Pink Impact 2016! Volunteers receive a discounted rate starting at $75 per ticket. To learn more and to register, visit pinkimpact.com/volunteer. Contact: Rachel Sabo, 817.552.5885, pinknrh@gatewaypeople.com

YOUNG ADULTS SEVEN (YOUNG ADULTS)

If you are between 18 and early 30s and are interested in being a part of our young adults gatherings, let us know! Contact: Brian McNabb, 817.552.7318, sevennrh@gatewaypeople.com

BABY DEDICATIONS

AMAZING KIDS JEWEL STORE

PRAYER

MEN

OUTREACH

If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com by Monday, February 29. Space is limited! Contact: Amy Sellars, 817.552.7342, babiesnrh@gatewaypeople.com

Stay connected with us!

BARABBAS FREEDOM MINISTRY

Sundays | 7:00 pm | Chat Room

This ministry is for men and women (18+) who have been incarcerated or struggle with addictions. Discover how to find new life through faith in Jesus. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, nrh@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

WORLD RELIEF OUTREACH Saturday, Mar 19

Join us this Easter as we minister to refugee families alongside World Relief. You will have the opportunity to demonstrate the love of God to families who have been uprooted and placed in a foreign environment. For more information, visit bless.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

TUESDAYS »» DayTime Bible Study (Senior Adults) 10:00 am | Chat Room WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY SOUTHLAKE

EQUIP

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYPEOPLE

EXPECTANT COUPLES CLASS

Mondays, Feb 29–Mar 28 | 7:00–9:00 pm | Serve Lounge We want to help you prepare to be first-time parents! You’ll learn about the adjustments that come with having a new baby, practical health issues, and general tips. Register at parentinglife.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kathy Overton, 817.552.3749, parentinglife@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP | SESSION THREE

Wednesdays and Weekend Services In addition to Wednesday evenings, Equip offers classes during weekend services! For a list of classes and to register, visit equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jesse Kramer, 817.552.5818, equip@gatewaypeople.com

INTIMATE LIFE INTIMATE LIFE CLASSES

Mondays Through May 16 | 7:00 pm | Classrooms 1C & 2C The Conquer series (helps men struggling with sexual addiction—Classroom 2C) and the Rescued series (supports women whose husbands are struggling with sexual addiction—Classroom 1C) are 10-week small groups offered to provide help, resources, and healing to men and women. Register by emailing intimatelife@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Monica Bates, 817.552.7363, intimatelife@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS BABY DEDICATION SERVICE

Sunday, Apr 10 | 2:30 pm | Auditorium If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com by Monday, April 4. Space is limited! Contact: Cheryl Morgan, 817.552.7431, babies@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS KAIROS

Jul 11 & 25

Kids KAIROS is an opportunity to allow God to renew kids’ hearts and refresh their hope in who He says they are and what He has planned for them! One parent needs to have attended KAIROS before registering their child (ages 7–12). Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jennifer Stracener, 817.552.7446, kairos@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE & FAMILY THE RIGHT ONE

Mondays, Mar 7–Apr 11 | 7:00–8:30 pm | Classroom 2B

Single, dating, or engaged? This class includes teaching, personal stories, and group discussions answering common questions about dating as well as how to be and find the right one. Register premarriedlife.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kathy Overton, 817.552.3749, premarriedlife@gatewaypeople.com

26 MARCH 2016

GUEST EXPERIENCE VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION

Saturday, Mar 12| 5:45 pm | Classroom 1B Sunday, Mar 13 | 12:30 pm | Classroom 2B

Come find out what it takes to get involved as a greeter, usher, parking lot attendant, Guest Central host, or any of our other volunteer roles! Register at gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jim Mayher, 817.552.7566, gxp@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN

MEMBERSHIP CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Mar 5 | 4:00–5:45 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: Bree Vasquez, 817.552.7483, ctvslk@gatewaypeople.com

MEN MEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL

Begins Saturday, Apr 9

Flag Football is designed to strengthen the connection men have with God, Gateway Church, and with one another while competing on the football field. Register Mar 1–30 at sports.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Justin Greene, 817.552.5887, flagfootball@gatewaypeople.com

CO-ED AND MEN’S SOFTBALL

Begins May 16

With 35+ teams in five cities, Gateway Softball exists to foster personal connection in and outside the church. Join our community as we compete on the field! Register Mar 18–Apr 15 at sports.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Justin Greene, 817.552.5887, softball@gatewaypeople.com

PRAYER PRAYER PRACTICUM

Sundays, Mar 6–20

We believe prayer should be a life-giving encounter with God. This month’s classes are designed to activate your prayer life through a creative, fun, and engaging time of worship, teaching, and prayer. Visit prayer.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jack Abraham 817.552.3702, prayerslk@gatewaypeople.com

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES LIVE PRODUCTION & IT VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION

Sunday, Mar 13 | 2:00 pm | Serve Lounge

PINK GROUPS

If you’re looking to get connected and meet new friends, join a Pink Group! Visit groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christy Linder, 682.223.6935, pinkgroups@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

FREEDOM KAIROS

Thursday–Friday, Apr 7–8 | 9:00 am–5:00 pm | Auditorium SLK KAIROS is a time for you to experience God in a deeper and more intimate way. Through worship, teaching, and ministry. Register at kairos.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jennifer Stracener, 817.552.7446, kairos@gatewaypeople.com

HARVEST AMERICA 2016

We are partnering with Harvest America for this event that features Chris Tomlin, MercyMe, Switchfoot, and Lecrae as well as a powerful gospel message from Greg Laurie. To get involved, visit harvestamerica.com/texas-2016. Contact: Terri Cooke, 817.552.7601, evangelism@gatewaypeople.com

MESSIANIC SERVICE & PURIM CELEBRATION SLK

Join us as we celebrate Purim, the celebration of God’s deliverance of the Jewish people. Stay after the service for a fun party! Come in costume as a character from the book of Esther! Children’s ministry is available. Contact: Oli Snyder, 817.552.7452, jewish@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS Monday–Saturday, Jun 13–18 Kids 1st–6th Grade | 7–12 Years Old

FRS GRP NFW

Join us for a special time of worship and ministry and learn to hear God’s voice and increase your faith. Prayer starts at 5:15 pm. Children’s ministry is available, birth through five years old. Contact: Cindy Williamson, 817.552.3729, habitation@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENT CONFERENCE: LIMITLESS

It’s time to register your child for camp! The cost is $550 if registered before March 3 and $580 after that date. Register at kids.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Melanie Baley, 817.552.3685, kidscamp@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE & FAMILY HOW WE LOVE

HABITATION

Sunday, Mar 13 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium SLK

STUDENTS

AMAZING KIDS’ CAMP

Mondays, Apr 4–May 23 | 7:00–8:30 pm | Serve Lounge

SPECIAL EVENTS Sunday, Mar 6 | 5:30–7:30 pm | AT&T Stadium

JEWISH Friday, Mar 4 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

Learn to effectively engage unbelievers with the gospel and answer critical questions about faith. Register at evangelism.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Terri Cooke, 817.552.7601, evangelism@gatewaypeople.com

SLK

Join us to discover the wonders of how we love! Register at marriedlife.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Mari Burrough, 817.552.7595, marriedlife@gatewaypeople.com

MYGATEWAY MYGATEWAY EASTER DEVOTIONAL

Sundays, Feb 14–Mar 13 | Daily, Mar 20–27 This Easter season, deepen your relationship with the Lord as Gateway pastors lead and encourage you through a video devotional. Only found on the newly redesigned myGateway App! Contact: Casey Hale, 817.552.5806, mygateway@gatewaypeople.com

OUTREACH YOUTH WORLD OUTREACH

Saturday, Mar 12 | 10:00 am–3:00 pm | Dallas

Join us for the Youth World Spring Break Carnival as we minister to at-risk youth in the Dallas area! For more information, visit bless.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Sam Belveal, 817.552.3704, outreach@gatewaypeople.com

Jul 20–22

SLK

LOCATIONS &

SERVICE TIMES 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 9:00 am & 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 5:00 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

Students (7th–12th grade) and leaders will experience dynamic speakers and powerful worship led by Kari Jobe, Gateway Generate, and more! Register at gatewaystudentconference.com. Contact: Joy Cromer, 817.552.7375, students@gatewaypeople.com

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

WOMEN

UNIVERSITY CAMPUS UC 2121 E Southlake Blvd · Southlake, TX 76092

PINK IMPACT

Friday–Saturday, May 13–14 | Fort Worth Convention Center Pink Impact is approaching and now is the time to get your ticket! Join Priscilla Shirer, Charlotte Gambill, Christine Caine, Kari Jobe, Michael Jr., Pastor Robert and Debbie Morris, and more for this year’s event where we’ll be all together in one place! Register at pinkimpact.com. Contact: Hannah Morris, 682.223.6052, info@pinkimpact.com

WORSHIP DIVE SCHOOL

Friday–Thursday, Apr 1–7 Deep-Innovative-Vertical-Expression exists to encourage students through doctrinal teaching as well as expert training in music and the arts. Apply at thedivecreative.com. Contact: Rachel Melton, 817.552.3728, worship.connection@gatewaypeople.com

MINISTRY CENTER MIN 540 S Nolen · Southlake, TX 76092

817.328.1000

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Seven (Young Adults, 18–Early 30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium SLK GRP NFW WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Equip | 6:56 pm | Auditorium »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium

SLK

UC FRS GRP NFW NRH

SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am MIN (Canceled on Holiday Weekends)

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 27

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHURCHWIDE

ENGAGE 2020 SEMINAR

Saturday, Apr 9 | 9:00 am–3:00 pm | Auditorium

ACTIVITIES

GLAD LIBS

Easter Brunch: Grandpa Saves the Day

INSTRUCTIONS: Fill in the blanks with silly words to create a hilarious story.

On Easter Sunday, Peter and Susan went to brunch at ________________’s house. She made all their favorite dishes like (female)

________________ ________________ and ________________ . Grandpa (adjective)

(noun)

went to the store for chocolate cake and Grandma forgot the turkey in the ________________ ! At least there were still ________________ to (kitchen appliance)

(plural noun)

eat. Only, the ________________ was soggy. They would have turned to (noun)

Grandma’s delicious ________________ and tasty ________________, (plural noun)

(plural noun)

but a/an ________________ got in the house and knocked the table (animal)

over! Uncle ________________ screamed and jumped on the couch, (male)

sending it into the dessert table. Luckily, Grandpa’s ________________ (adjective)

cake survived the disaster!

28 MARCH 2016

THERE’S MORE THAN ONE EGG IN THIS BASKET!

WHERE

FAITH + POP

CULTURE

MEET

by Pastor Thomas Miller

There are 10 eggs hidden throughout this issue of Gateway Life. Just like a good ol’ fashioned egg hunt, find all 10 eggs and you win! FIND THESE EGGS:

THE MOVIE INCEPTION WAS QUITE THE BLOCKBUSTER A FEW YEARS AGO, and it’s easy to see why:

dream jumping, corporate espionage, manipulation of reality, … and Leonardo DiCaprio. But one of the coolest elements of this film is the insight we get into the enemy’s tactics. DiCaprio plays professional thief Dominick “Dom” Cobb who uses experimental military technology to infiltrate people’s subconsciouses. Basically, he can hitch a ride into people’s dreams where he can steal their thoughts or in the case of this movie: insert an idea into someone’s mind without their knowledge. They label this act “inception.” Dom and his team of dream thieves are hired to intrude the dreams of businessman Robert Fisher (who is set to inherit his father’s company) and somehow plant an idea that would make Robert want to dissolve the company. The goal is to hide the idea so deep within Robert’s subconscious that he doesn’t know it’s a foreign thought. The team jumps deeply into Robert’s dreams. And what idea do they plant to make Robert want to dissolve his father’s company? It’s essentially the idea that his dad doesn’t love him or want him to be a part of the inheritance. Dom and his team plan to implant doubt deep in Robert’s subconscious, which could effectively change the way Robert lives. This is a taste of what the enemy loves to do with us. He loves to sow doubt: “Does God really love me?” “Does He really have a purpose for my life?” “Would He really mind if I did this?” The enemy loves to shortcut and shortchange what God wants to do in your life—he doesn’t want you to claim the inheritance God has for you. But if we recognize that the thought is foreign—that the idea isn’t ours—the enemy doesn’t win, and the inception fails.

“Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.” Ephesians 1:11 (NLT) ©1998 Mark Parisi | offthemark.com

(Adapted from one of the “Redemptive Themes in Hollywood” Equip classes.)

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 29

PROFILE

My kids and their cousins, on the other hand, can do summersaults and flips and are quite adept with a wakeboard. I’M EXCITED ABOUT MY NEW ROLE at the Dallas Campus. The way I define success for our campus goes beyond the attendance numbers. Of course, we know that healthy things grow, so we expect to have a good number of people join our campus, but I really want to see lives being transformed through developing and deepening a relationship with Christ. I want to see salvations, growth in discipleship, people joining Gateway Groups, and people finding freedom. That’s what excites me about taking the heart of what Gateway is doing into Dallas and helping people develop an intimate relationship with God.

TOM LANE

TOM LANE IS THE DALLAS CAMPUS PASTOR AND LEAD EXECUTIVE SENIOR PASTOR OVER ALL THE OUTREACH MINISTRIES OF GATEWAY CHURCH. HE AND HIS WIFE, JAN, HAVE 4 CHILDREN AND 15 GRANDCHILDREN.

MANY PEOPLE KNOW that I like to start my mornings at McDonald’s, but that wasn’t always the case. When we lived in Amarillo, I had a hard time doing a quiet time in the mornings. If I stayed home, I’d inevitably fall back to sleep, but if I went to the office, I’d get distracted by work. One day I discovered the solution right down the street from our house. There was a 24-hour International House of Pancakes, and I would bring my Bible and journal and order a hamburger (I didn’t like breakfast food very much). When I began traveling more, I realized that IHOP wasn’t always convenient, but there’s a McDonald’s almost everywhere in the world. That’s when I made the switch, but I had to give up my hamburger for breakfast. BEFORE I WROTE The Influence of a Father, I never considered myself qualified to write a book on parenting; however, Pastor Jimmy Evans encouraged me to write one. We had been best

30 MARCH 2016

friends for years (and still are), and he had just finished writing his book Marriage On the Rock. He said, “You ought to write a book on fathering.” I asked, “When will I find the time to research that topic?” He immediately said, “All you have to do is write about what you learned from your dad and how you applied it to your children.” Then he made a statement that was huge to me. He said, “I have learned more about being a parent by watching you and the way you deal with your kids than I learned from my own parents.” JAN AND I HAVE VERY DIFFERENT ROUTINES. I’m naturally an early riser and she likes to stay up late. This pattern started when our kids were in their teens. She would wait up for the kids until they got home from dates and nights out with friends, and I would get up with them in the morning to make sure they got off to school. Now that the kids are gone, we still maintain this pattern, though it doesn’t reflect a rejection of each other but a rhythm that works for us. We make sure we have quality time together. AS I’VE GROWN OLDER, I’ve gotten into water sports. I was a pretty good slalom skier, but when my kids started wakeboarding I was a little behind the curve. I had a wipeout that injured my knee and I’ve been tentative about wakeboarding ever since.

LONG BEFORE I WAS IN MINISTRY, I was a professional plumber. My father-in-law owned the largest residential mechanical contracting firm in Omaha, and I went to work for him. I joined the union’s apprenticeship program and as the new apprentice I was often given the jobs nobody wanted. One winter it was cold and there was snow on the ground. We were called to an apartment complex where the sewer line had frozen and cracked. As we dug deep in the ground, the sewer line broke open and the hole filled with sewage. It was a day I’ll never forget. I ONCE THREW JIMMY EVANS OUT OF A MOVING SKI BOAT I was driving. Our families were on the boat together and his son’s hat flew off his head. I let go of the steering wheel to grab the hat as it flew by, and the boat pitched to the right. As I grabbed the wheel to correct the direction of the boat, Jimmy went flying off the back deck into the water. Several years later, my mom arranged for me to take flying lessons as a Christmas gift. I asked Jimmy if he wanted to fly with me and he said, “You’ve almost killed me in your car. You’ve thrown me out of your boat. I’m not going to risk my life with you in a plane!”

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

Not Your Average Men’s Conference

Food | Games | Worship

Robert Morris

Chip Gaines

Jim Munroe

David Crowder

ACRODUNK Team

XPOGO Team

Conference 1 | Thursday–Friday, April 21–22 Conference 2 | Thursday–Friday, April 28–29 GATEWAY CHURCH SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS

menssummit.com | #menssummit16

Southlake Campus

Friday, March 25 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm

Saturday, March 26 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm

Sunday, March 27 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Pick up your pack of invitation “trading cards” during weekend services on March 12–13 and 19–20. For service times at other campuses, visit easter.gatewaypeople.com.

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