Gateway Life September 2016

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SEPTEMBER 2016

DECISION AMERICA How Gateway is backing a nationwide campaign for God. p. 12

SUJO'S STORY

MORE THAN COFFEE

TAKE A BREAK

How surviving 9/11 gave one man boldness to do God's work. p. 8

The secret ingredient to the Gateway Café's success. p. 10

Pastor Steve Dulin shares how and why you should go on a sabbatical. p. 16


Christina Mitchella is a member of the Gateway Dallas Campus, and she submitted her oil on canvas painting, titled Freedom Abounds, for the September issue’s art theme—hard at work. Creating a beautiful oil painting like this requires skill, patience, and dedication, which is why it fits our theme so well.

CALLING ALL CREATIVES!

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


CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2016

COMMENTS

2

WELCOME

3

PULSE OUTREACH

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SUJO’S STORY How surviving 9/11 gave one man boldness to do God's work. F E AT U R E S

10

MORE THAN COFFEE

The secret ingredient to the Gateway Café’s success.

12

DECISION AMERICA

15

SONG STORY

16

TAKE A BREAK

18

WHICH GATEWAY SERMON SERIES ARE YOU?

How Gateway is backing a nationwide campaign for God.

Paul Trimble and Tyler Bates’ “Heartbeat”

Pastor Steve Dulin shares how and why you should go on a sabbatical.

Take this fun quiz to discover what sermon series you relate to the most.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

32

ACTIVITIES

33

THE INTERSECTION

34

PROFILE – LEVI SMITH

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. Our mission is to help people BELIEVE in Jesus, BELONG to family, BECOME a disciple, and BUILD the kingdom.

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


W e l come

WELCOME to GATEWAY LIFE Like most parents with school-age children, I enjoy saying the three most beautiful words in the world—“Back to School!” While the weather in September may not signal a change in season, the calendar definitely reminds us that we have once again made the shift back into the school routine. For me, the call for students to return to the classroom also signals an exciting new school year here at The King’s University (TKU). Our main campus has been here for three years I LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR!

gateway life gatewaylifemag.com Thomas Miller, Senior Pastoral Oversight Lawrence Swicegood, Editor-in-Chief

now and with over 500 students registered this fall, we’re amazed at how far God has taken this university in such a short period of time. The path has been lined with significant challenges and obstacles, yet through it all we have witnessed the mighty hand of God guiding our steps. Did you know your Heart for the Kingdom giving helps support the ministry and teaching at TKU? You are a stakeholder in this great school! Students from around the world who call TKU their home are the benefactors of your generous giving and prayerful support. So, on behalf of our staff and students, I would like to extend a sincere “thank you!” As you read through this issue of Gateway Life, it’s my hope that you’ll editorial Stacy Burnett, Managing Editor Daniel Hopkins, Senior Writer/Editor Shea Tellefsen, Staff Writer/Editor Katie Smith, Staff Writer/Editor Sydnie Shreffler, Staff Writer/Editor Georgette Shuler, Copy Editor Liz Tramer, Proofreader photography Adam Fish, Photographer Cory Hale, Contributing Photographer

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be moved by the miraculous story of Sujo John who narrowly escaped the North Tower of the World Trade Center on September 11. The article about the Gateway Café will encourage and challenge you to find ways to minister to others in your workplace, and you’ll enjoy reading about the extraordinary ways Gateway is supporting Franklin Graham’s Decision America Tour. I hope these stories inspire you, and I want to encourage you to explore opportunities to get involved in the life of Gateway. With the return of Gateway Groups all over the Metroplex and a new semester of Gateway Equip classes, this is the perfect time to find your own “routine” and take advantage of what we have coming up this month! Let’s start this fall with a commitment to study, learn, and grow in our faith.

Dr. John Spurling Associate Senior Pastor President, The King’s University art Shane Dennehey, Creative Director Tim Lautensack, Art Director/Designer Emanuel Puscas, Art Director/Designer Katrina Sirmon, Production Designer David Phillips, Print Coordinator project management Tracey Schwellenger


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 FIDDLER ON THE ROOF

“I love Gateway Performing Arts! Such a talented, devoted cast and crew. I had the joy of bringing five non-Gateway members to Fiddler on the Roof, and my NYC cousins (who know theatre) were especially moved and shouted, ‘Even better than Broadway!’ during the curtain call. The best part was the prompting that led to questions about our church and its ministries. Thank you for the glorious bridge you provide for non-churchgoers to journey over.” Georgette Shuler | via email

“GATEWAY’S PRODUCTION OF FIDDLER ON THE ROOF WAS ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!” Ben and Heather Dobberstein | via Facebook

Say

WHAT?!

Defining Gateway Church Lingo

DEACON

ELDER

APOSTOLIC ELDER

A deacon’s role is to help with the physical administration of the church, including administering communion, counting and collecting offerings, overseeing volunteers, and a number of other duties.

Elders are church members appointed to lead alongside the pastor in governing the vision of the church and establishing policies. They also provide spiritual oversight and model godly living to those in the church. At Gateway, we have elders who serve on staff as well as those who do not.

Apostolic elders are pastors and leaders from outside of Gateway who provide a spiritual covering and give counsel when needed.

For more information, visit the About Us tab on gatewaypeople.com.

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Here’s a behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of the people and places that make Gateway a church we love.

A volunteer welcomes children at the Gateway Kids check-in desk.

The Fiddler on the Roof orchestra rehearses.

The Southlake Campus control room broadcasts weekend services to all Gateway campuses.


The view from the soundbooth at Fiddler On the Roof.

Backstage at Fiddler On the Roof.

Altar Ministry at the Southlake Campus.

The Gateway shipping and receiving warehouse.

Members get more than coffee at the Gateway CafĂŠ. (For more information, see page 10.)


HIGH FIVE

PERRY GREEN

VOLUNTEER, ALTAR MINISTRY

MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT? When I was in the sixth grade, some of the bigger boys picked me up and threw me into the girl’s bathroom. They pushed against the door so I couldn’t get out, and when I did get out, I ran smack into two ladies coming in. They gave me a tongue lashing I have not forgotten. WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST PET PEEVE? When people confuse me with other people. I’ve had people confuse me with Coach Steve Robinson (from UNC), Michael Jordan, Pastor Kam Hunt, and even Wayne Brady (a guy once followed me around a Starbucks in Coppell). WHAT IS SOMETHING NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT YOU? I was born left-handed, but my mom thought it would be better for me to be right-handed. My penmanship is horrific. WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? I wanted to be a Marine. My hometown is Jacksonville, North Carolina, which is home of 2nd Marine Division. My father and just about every man I knew was a Marine. They were my heroes. IF YOU COULD GET COFFEE WITH ANYONE, WHO WOULD IT BE? My father. He passed away over a decade ago, right after we began working together in ministry. He would always say, “If I would have known how blessed my life would have been by serving others, I would have started earlier.” I would love to tell him, “Thank you. Now I understand.” For more about Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

”WE HAVE SUCH A LOAD LIFTED OFF OUR SHOULDERS. THANKS TO THE LORD AND HIS BLESSINGS THROUGH GATEWAY. FOR THE FIRST TIME WE WERE ABLE TO GO SOMEWHERE AND ENJOY THE RIDE AFTER SIX YEARS OF UTTER CHAOS FROM ALL FIVE OF US BEING CRAMPED IN THE CAB OF OUR PICKUP. WE ARE SO GRATEFUL!” Bobbi and Jeremy Jackson

IN RESPONSE TO SUMMER PINK NIGHT

“THE WORSHIP AND SPEAKERS WERE PHENOMENAL, BUT I LOVED THE PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS DURING THE AFTER PARTY—ARRANGING FLOWERS, BIBLE JOURNALING, LINE DANCING, AND THE PRESENTATION OF SELF-DEFENSE TECHNIQUES. WE GAVE MEN’S SUMMIT A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY!” Sydnie Shreffler | via email

“At Habitation, single parents, widows, and others facing challenging financial situations were invited to come to the altar for prayer, and about 50 people came. Pastor Steve Dulin told the congregation ‘I want you to ask God how you can help meet their needs.’ For 10 minutes, the aisles were filled with

people making their way up front with cash, checks, and gift cards. By the end, people who had looked defeated were now laughing and thanking God for providing for them. It reminded me that this is what the church should be. Because we are the children of God, and He is a good, good Father.”

$

Kassie Dulin | via Facebook

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hurt him, and I got to share the love of God with him. Then the Lord told me Michael thinks he’s not smart and that he’s overlooked. I asked him about those things and he began to cry. Only the Lord could have done that. My brother was asking me questions that an atheist would ask, and I didn’t know the answers, but the Holy Spirit gave them to me.” Cameron Mayes | via email

“BEFORE, I DIDN’T FEEL GOD’S PRESENCE AND I DIDN’T KNOW IF HE WAS REAL. BUT AT GATEWAY STUDENT CONFERENCE, GOD TALKED TO ME AND SHOWED ME

“MY SON CAME AWAY FROM GATEWAY STUDENT CONFERENCE FULLY CHARGED.” Elizabeth Cameron | via Facebook

THAT HE EXISTS AND THAT HE’S HERE FOR ME. NOW, I KNOW I CAN TALK TO HIM ABOUT ANYTHING. GOD JUST SHOWED ME HOW EVERYTHING WAS MEANT TO BE—THAT EVERY LIFE MATTERS, THAT MY LIFE MATTERS.” Payge Scoggins | via email

At the Gateway Student Conference, 1,764 Krispy Kreme donuts were placed on a giant 24-foot wall in the Lobby of the Southlake Campus and more were stacked on trays nearby. Overall, 4,614 donuts and 5,636 bottles of water were consumed over the course of the three-day conference. • For Gateway’s Performing Arts’ production of Fiddler on the Roof, 40 cast members rehearsed for 96 hours and performed 12 shows in 10 days. Every male cast member grew out his facial hair for the three months before opening weekend. 20 professional musicians played in the live orchestra for every performance. • 440 kids (ages 4–5) attended Wacky Week Jr. • During the Churchwide Baptism weekend in July, 545 people were baptized. • At every Gateway weekend service, the Tech Arts team keeps the music volume between 98 and 100 decibels.

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“Two days before Gateway Student Conference, one of our leaders told us, ‘dare to pray dangerous prayers.’ God reminded me of my brother Michael, an atheist who thinks God is a tyrant and wants to send everyone to hell. My prayer was ‘God, let me change his perspective on Christianity.’ During my quiet time while on vacation after the conference, he asked to talk to me about God. He spilled his heart about how Christians had


Outreach

SUJO'S STORY How surviving 9/11 gave one man boldness to do God’s work.

by Katie Smith

WHEN SUJO JOHN MOVED FROM CALCUTTA, INDIA, TO NEW

York City to start a new life in February 2001, all he had were two suitcases and $50 in his wallet. His two business degrees helped him land a job on the 81st floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center, and his wife, Mary, got a job on the 71st floor of the South Tower. Soon after they arrived, they learned Mary was pregnant. “Everything was going so well for us. We were making good money. I was climbing the corporate ladder,” Sujo says. “But I would often think, God, what am I doing with my life? There’s got to be something more.” He was saved when he was 15 years old but lived a closet Christian life. He was sensing something was about to change. On September 11, 2001, Sujo left for work before his wife. Sitting at his desk on that bright and clear morning, he sent an email to a friend saying God was doing

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something he couldn’t understand, but he knew God was going to use him. Forty-three minutes later, at 8:45 am, American Airlines flight 11 crashed into the tower. “There was an unbelievable explosion. The building started shaking wildly, walls started caving in, and jet fuel leaking from the plane made its way down onto our floor,” Sujo says. “Fire broke out all around us.” Thousands of people joined Sujo in the stairwells as they fought their way out of the building, while firemen and police officers fought their way into the building. They all heard a second explosion as another plane flew into the South Tower, and all Sujo could think about was his pregnant wife. It took him an hour and 20 minutes to get out of the building, and he immediately made his way to the South Tower to search for her. That’s when


he heard a wave of glass shattering, and he was sucked into some kind of vacuum as the South Tower began to collapse around him. Sujo believed he was going to die. He knew where he stood with God, but as he looked around at the 15 or 20 people huddled with him, the Lord said, “Where are these people going without Me?” “This boldness that I can’t even explain came upon me,” he says. “I said to the others around me, ‘Call upon the name of Jesus and you will be saved!’ and they all did.” The group quickly prayed together and then scattered to find a way out of the dust and rubble. As Sujo fought for a way out of the imploded tower’s radius, he realized he was being buried alive. After about 20 minutes of being buried in debris, an FBI agent found him and pulled him through the haze to safety. The blinking red light of a crushed ambulance led the way, but the FBI agent said he needed to go back to get more people. The North Tower collapsed soon afterward, and Sujo never saw him again. “My phone calls weren’t getting through to Mary, so I ran for a while until I reached Canal Street. A young girl pulled me into a store and started removing glass from my hair,” Sujo says. “She asked if she could call my family, and I responded, ‘I don’t have family. My wife is dead.’” The girl took Sujo’s phone, and it started to ring. Sujo couldn’t believe Mary was on the other line, and the intense fear vanished. She was late to work that day, making it just in time to watch in horror as the second plane hit her tower, realizing her late arrival spared her life and the life of their unborn child. That night, Sujo collapsed to his knees and prayed. “I told God I was done chasing success and fame and financial security,” Sujo says. “And from now on I was going to chase things that were on His heart. I knew then that His heart is for people.” The next day, Sujo sent an email to several friends about his experience, and it jumpstarted a ministry he had never imagined. Christian and secular television, radio, and newspapers started sharing his story, and people all over the world contacted him to speak. “I’d never done public speaking. English is my second language, and I’d never been in ministry,” Sujo says. “But the fire of evangelism started burning in my heart that night, and God started using my story to save and heal others.”

I told God I was done chasing success and fame and financial security. For eight years, Sujo traveled the world, speaking at events and seeing thousands get saved, but one day he decided speaking was no longer enough. He went back to India for a ministry trip, and it was while he was in New Delhi that the Lord showed him his next step. The team he was traveling with visited the red light district where 37,000 sex workers live and work within a mile and a half stretch. The girls are kept in three by six foot cages and often forced to see 40 men a night. He had never seen such darkness. “The Lord told me I could identify with those women,” Sujo says. “He said, ‘You were physically rescued; you need to physically rescue these girls. You were spiritually rescued; these girls need to be spiritually rescued.’” That was the birth of Sujo’s ministry, You Can Free Us, which pulls girls out of sex trafficking situations in India and Poland and provides safe places for them to heal. Once again, his experience on 9/11 birthed a new ministry, which is now a Gateway ministry partner that takes teams from Gateway to India. “It’s been quite a journey from 9/11 to where I am now,” Sujo says. “And I love being a part of seeing the darkness light up.” GL

15

years

This September marks the 15-year anniversary of the attacks on September 11, 2001. We honor all our first responders— police, firefighters, emergency and military personnel, FBI, and dispatchers—for the daily sacrifices they make for our safety and freedom, and we remember those we have lost.

Sujo and his wife have three children and have attended the Southlake Campus for six years. Sujo has led several ministry trips with Gateway, and his anti-trafficking ministry, You Can Free Us, is a Gateway Outreach ministry partner. For more information, visit sujojohn.com or youcanfree.us. Come join You Can Free Us for the Run for Freedom, Walk for Justice 5K in Highland Village on November 21. To participate, visit youcanfree.us.


Gateway Café

MORE THAN

COFFEE The secret ingredient to the Gateway Café’s success. by Daniel Hopkins EARLY ONE SATURDAY AFTERNOON at the Grand Prairie Campus, before any of the pastors had arrived for weekend services, coffee grinders whirred and steam rose from the espresso machine as the Gateway Café baristas prepared for the weekend rush. But the noises subsided when a woman walked in the door and approached them. Tears were in her eyes as she told the Café team about her daughter who had committed suicide the night before. The only thing she knew to do was find the nearest church and talk to someone. There were no pastors there to offer ministry, but without missing a beat, the baristas stopped everything to talk and pray with the woman. In fact, they had been trained to handle situations just like this one. After putting her in touch with the Gateway Care ministry, they went back to their duties at the café, and the sounds and smells of coffee being made returned. There are several things you might be surprised to know about the Gateway Café. One is that the managers, supervisors, and many of the baristas attend altar ministry training in case someone needs prayer. Another is that from the time you give your name to the person at the cash register to the time you pick up your drink at the bar, the Café team prays for you. “We want to be more significant

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to the church than just making lattes and grinding beans,” says Barney Paradise, the director of the Gateway Café. “We look at it as our opportunity to minister.” In addition to ministry, the Café team is dedicated to their craft—making high quality specialty coffee drinks. Of course, a lot of thought and preparation goes into a simple cup of black coffee, and it starts well before the coffee beans arrive at Gateway. On the hills of South America, Africa, and Asia, farmers from small coffee farms grow the beans that will eventually end up in the cups of Gateway Café customers. We have partnered with Coda Coffee Company, who, for more than a decade, have traveled the world to find growers of high-quality coffee. They ship the beans to their headquarters in Colorado, where they are roasted in the world’s first recycled-air roaster. The resulting product earned them the 2014 Roast Magazine Roaster of the Year award. Their focus on well-made coffee is matched by their passion for helping the farmers and their communities. By paying the farmers a fair price, their communities begin to improve. So when you order a coffee from the Café, you’re helping improve the lives of people thousands of miles away. The Café also helps people in our own communities. All the tips collected at all the Gateway Cafés go directly to benevolence at Gateway. You might think a dollar here or fifty cents there isn’t much, but in 2015 the Café gave nearly $15,000. And at the end of the year, when a tornado devastated residents in the city of Rowlett, Café employees and volunteers sprung into action to put together 400 boxed meals to send via Mercy Chefs to families impacted by the tornado. At the end of each day, any remaining food products are boxed up and given to I Can Still Shine Shelter for Women & Children in North Richland Hills. “We love to give to them,” says Jamie Griffeth, a café volunteer. “And if we don’t have anything to give, a lot of times we’ll make something.” The spirit of generosity and excellence at the Gateway Café has affected more than just the customers who grab a coffee before heading into the service. Several of the employees and volunteers have seen dramatic changes take place in their lives stemming from time spent at the café. Last year Heidi Watson, a missionary who ran the Oasis Café, a small ministry-run coffee shop and bakery that reaches the community in Canilla, Guatemala, came home to Gateway, where she and her family have been members since 2009. When she arrived in Canilla in 2014 to work with Adonai International Ministries, she was put to work at the Oasis Café, which was located in a converted garage. It had dirt floors and a rodent problem, and it was losing money and running out of steam. But when Heidi took over, she helped it stay afloat for a little more than a year.

“I was the baker, accountant, and janitor, but I had never done any of that before,” says Heidi. “Sometimes God calls us to areas where we don’t have experience. I don’t even like coffee!” After about a year, she came to visit the Gateway Café, and when she returned to Guatemala things began to change at the Oasis Café. Through the support and resources she was given by the Gateway Café team, the Oasis Café began to reach more people and bring in more money. Now it can afford to pay other employees to run the Oasis—something they’ve had to do recently when God called Heidi back home to Texas.

We want to be more significant to the church than just making lattes and grinding beans. Although her time at the Oasis Café has ended, Heidi’s connection with the Gateway Café has continued. If you’re ever at the Gateway Café at The King’s University campus, chances are Heidi will take your order and make your drink. Since returning home, she’s serving at the place that did so much to serve her when she was on the mission field. “I had a lot on my shoulders, but Gateway held up my hands when I was in the battle,” she says. “I learned to trust God when He calls you to your weakness.” GL For more information or to volunteer, email cafeserve@gatewaypeople.com. For café hours at each campus, visit cafe.gatewaypeople.com.

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DECISION AMERICA

HOW GATEWAY IS BACKING A NATIONWIDE CAMPAIGN FOR GOD. by Daniel Hopkins

LAWRENCE SWICEGOOD STANDS BACK AS FRANKLIN GRAHAM—yes, that Franklin Graham, son of Reverend Billy Graham—slices into a watermelon with a machete. What started out as a joke has now become a ritual after every Decision America Tour prayer rally. As the slices of watermelon help cool down the crew who worked tirelessly to make each rally a success, Lawrence considers the many things on his mind. For the past 18 months, he has split his time being the executive director of media & communications at Gateway

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Church while also heading up the 50-state Decision America Tour for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA). At the beginning of last year, he had no idea that he would travel to all 50 states overseeing prayer rallies. When you are willing to follow God’s call, sometimes He’ll lead you to unexpected places doing unexpected things. On a February evening in 2015, Lawrence received a surprise phone call from Franklin. They hadn’t spoken in a long time; in fact, their last call had been more than a decade


IF AMERICA CAN BE SAVED, ONLY GOD CAN DO IT. ago. “I have an idea I want to run by you,” said Franklin. “God has put a burden on my heart for our country, and I felt led to ask for your help.” Franklin went on to say how he felt America is at a critical crossroads, and unless Christians call out to God in prayer for repentance and forgiveness, then our country could soon be lost. “I’m canceling all my US and worldwide evangelistic crusades and want to hold prayer rallies on the steps of every capitol in all 50 states.” He called it a “Campaign for God,” and wanted Lawrence to oversee the 50-state prayer tour. “It was an incredible opportunity, and I was honored to be asked,” Lawrence says. “But I already had a full-time job at Gateway, and I love what I do.” However, when Pastor Robert and the executive senior pastors heard about the opportunity, they developed a plan for him to work for both organizations and still have time to spend with family. “Because our church believes so strongly in prayer and evangelism,” said Pastor Robert in a meeting with Franklin Graham, “I want Gateway to be a blessing and participate by continuing to cover Lawrence’s salary.” In addition, Gateway made a generous donation to help with the many expenses of the 50-state Decision America Tour. With Gateway’s blessing, Lawrence and Franklin immediately began planning a tour that would become much bigger than ever expected. With a support team of 115 people from the BGEA and a 12 million dollar budget, the campaign began on a snowy January day on the capitol steps in Des Moines, Iowa. “We initially thought we’d have between 300 to 500 people join us at noon for prayer at each state capitol,” says Lawrence, now with only 13 stops left on the tour. “Amazingly, we’ve averaged between 4,000 and 9,000 people attending almost every prayer rally with tens of thousands watching live streaming and praying along at home.” Franklin attributes this huge response to people realizing what a declining condition our nation is in morally, racially, and spiritually, and God’s mercy is our only hope. “I have no hope in the Republican Party, Democratic Party, or any other party or person,” says Franklin. “If America can be saved, only God can do it.”

THERE ARE NO THEATRICS OR CELEBRITIES DRAWING PEOPLE TO THE EVENTS. AT NOON ON THE DAY OF A RALLY, FRANKLIN DOES THREE THINGS ON THE STEPS AT EACH CAPITOL:

1

2

3

Using 2 Chronicles 7:14 as our mandate and a guide, Franklin leads the people through a prayer of repentance for their sins, the sins of our fathers, and the sins of our nation, the way Nehemiah pleaded for God to help them rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and infuse hope to the people once more. He preaches the gospel. “Even though it’s a prayer rally for people of all faiths, we still proclaim the gospel knowing some in attendance may not have a clear understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ,” says Lawrence. “So far we’ve had 5,451 attendees text us saying they prayed to receive Christ at the rallies!” He encourages people to become involved in the political process. In 2012, more than 20 million evangelicals did not vote. Franklin isn’t just encouraging people to vote for presidential elections. He wants Christians to also consider state and local elections and even running for city councils and school boards. “Can you imagine the impact if thousands of Christians served on our school boards?” says Lawrence. “It could revolutionize our public school system and impact millions of children and generations to come!”

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WE INITIALLY THOUGHT WE’D HAVE BETWEEN 300 TO 500 PEOPLE JOIN US AT NOON FOR PRAYER AT EACH STATE CAPITOL. AMAZINGLY, WE’VE AVERAGED BETWEEN 4,000 AND 9,000 PEOPLE. The tour hasn’t been easy. They’ve been met with strong opposition and protest in some states, but because of the prayer support of many churches like Gateway, they have witnessed God “part the waters” on many occasions. In New Hampshire, after months of trying to get the necessary permits to hold that state’s prayer rally at the capitol, every attempt had failed. So they drove to the capitol in Concord to try in person one last time. The executive director of capitol events happened to be there that day and overheard the conversation at the reception desk. “As he hurried over, he said his family was impacted at a Billy Graham crusade in the ’70s and asked how he could assist us,” said Lawrence. “Within 25 minutes, we walked out of his office with every permit we needed to hold the prayer rally. It was like watching a modern-day miracle.” At another rally, in Sacramento, California, an opposing atheist group was planning a huge counter-protest to disrupt

the prayer rally. The night before, Franklin and Lawrence walked the grounds of the capitol building to pray for God’s protection and favor. As they did, they noticed something interesting. Dozens of people were already showing up to pray for the following day’s rally. An hour before the start, there were so many people—more than 6,000—that the protesters couldn’t get within a quarter of a mile of the event. Even still, Decision America volunteers provided those protesters with cold bottles of water and a warm smile on that hot day. The prayer rally went off without one arrest or incident. That heat is what led to the celebratory watermelon at the end of each event. And as Lawrence stands on the bus with watermelon in hand and many things on his mind— celebrating a job well-done, appreciating the outpouring of support from Gateway Church, maintaining a difficult schedule, seeing his family back home, and anticipating the work yet to be done—he has a hope for our country and for God’s favor and blessings on America. All it takes is a group of people willing to follow God’s call, even if it leads to unexpected places doing unexpected things. GL For more information about Decision America, visit DecisionAmericaTour.com.

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SONG STORY

PAUL TRIMBLE AND TYLER BATES’

“HEARTBEAT” by KATIE SMITH

———

WHEN TYLER BATES WENT to his coworker, writing partner,

and friend, Paul Trimble, with the suggestion to write a worship song with the lyrics “boom, boom, boom,” Paul was a little hesitant. But after five years of working together to write and create Gateway Kids’ ministry curriculum, Paul heard him out. Earlier that year, Tyler and his wife, Connie, were putting their young daughter to bed when she climbed up in Tyler’s lap and put her head on his chest. Suddenly, she shot back up and looked at him with wide eyes. As she laid her head back on his chest and fell asleep with a smile on her face, Tyler realized she had just heard his heartbeat for the first time. “I immediately wanted to tell her, If you only knew how much my heart beats for you,” Tyler says. “I think it’s the same with God. When you hear God’s heart beat for you, it changes everything.” When Tyler and Paul were approached about putting together a worship album for kids, they kicked around the idea of “heartbeat” throughout their writing process. “Tyler and I have a ridiculous trust when writing together,” Paul says. “We just put our ideas out there and help each other mold them.” It was this trust, and the fact that Gateway Kids is all about having fun while learning about God, that convinced Paul it would be a cool idea to flesh out the lyric “You make my heart go boom, boom, boom.” It also helped that Pastors Ken and Mary Jackson, the pioneers of Gateway Kids, always supported Paul and Tyler in however

they wanted to minister to kids. “Whether we’re telling a Bible story, shooting a video, or writing a song, we’re always looking to try something new yet simple enough for kids to catch onto easily,” Tyler says. Even though they’re not the typical words to put in a worship song, the sound of God’s heartbeat ended up being the key, and the rest of the song came together within the next few days. The song became the title track on the Heartbeat album, which was released in June, just in time for Wacky Week. “For the past three years, we’ve talked about doing a theme song for Wacky Week,” Paul says. “This year it happened.” The kids’ worship teams played this song every day for Wacky Week (sometimes twice a day!), and because the week was superhero-themed, the song was accompanied by original choreography and videos with comic-looking starbursts and explosions. For those who bought the album, it came with a DVD that teaches kids the dance motions to each song on the album. “Choreographed dance has become part of our expression of worship in the kids’ classrooms each weekend,” says Paul. “And we wanted to capture that for kids to learn at home and for other churches to use.” For many of the kids, the Heartbeat album and DVD was a chance for them to take home what they learned at Wacky Week. Whether they remembered all the lyrics or just the words “boom, boom, boom,” they went home knowing God loves them. “Our goal with this song was to express God’s heart at their level and give them a chance to respond to His love,” Tyler says, “And every time we sang this song at Wacky Week, I watched almost 3,000 kids raise their hands and sing at the top of their lungs. It was my favorite part of the week.” GL “Heartbeat” is on the Gateway Kids Worship album, Heartbeat, available at the Gateway Bookstore and on iTunes.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM  15


Take Break a

I went on my first sabbatical. I had heard of ministers taking sabbaticals—going away for a few days to be with the Lord—but as a business man, I didn’t think a sabbatical applied to me. However, the Lord led me to go on one. My in-laws helped me find a place to go, and I ended up spending a week in January in a freezing one-room cabin in East Texas. I spent the first three days of my first sabbatical hearing nothing from God and complaining about the money I could’ve been making if I were at work instead. Then, on the fourth day, in the span of 30 minutes, God gave me five ideas for my business. Five ideas that, for almost 20 years, continued to dramatically change how we did business and gave us a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Since that time, I’ve taken three sabbaticals a year. I don’t believe I could live the life God has called me to live without them. You may be thinking, Well, that’s good for you, Pastor Steve, but why would I need to go on a sabbatical? And the TWENTY-SEVEN YEARS AGO,

H OW A N D W H Y TO GO O N A S A B B AT I CA L — b y PA S TO R S T E V E D U L I N

answer is: to strengthen your relationship with the Lord. The word “sabbatical” comes from the word “Sabbath,” which is a day of rest dedicated to God. Essentially, a sabbatical is several Sabbaths put together. Whether you’re a businessman or a student or a stay-at-home mom, I bet you spend a lot of your time running around. We work hard, we spend time and money trying to find solutions to problems, and oftentimes we end up destroying our businesses, families, and health when what we really need is to sit still and be rightly related to God. And if you want to develop a better relationship with God, it takes time. If you want answers and wisdom, you need to spend time with Him. Every time I go on sabbatical, the Lord gives me greater vision, for me personally, for my family, and for my ministry. He gives me very detailed direction for my life. He also shows me things from His perspective. So whether you go away for two days or for a week, spending extended time with the Lord changes you.

As you plan to go on your first sabbatical, here are 12 tips to help you prepare.

1 There’s never a good time to go on a sabbatical. Something else will always be happening, but I go because I see the blessings and benefits of it, even if it’s just for two or three days. And I trust God’s Word that says if we spend time with Him, He will drive out our enemies and enlarge our borders (Exodus 34:21–24).

2 Find a place where you’re not easily distracted. It doesn’t have to be a freezing cabin in the woods, but it should be somewhere you and God can be alone. As you start your sabbatical, pray over your room and dedicate the sabbatical to the Lord. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill the room.

3 Start preparing for your sabbatical about a week ahead of time. Begin to consciously slow down your mind and thoughts so you will be prepared to focus on the Lord rather than work, projects, and issues. The point of a sabbatical is not only to spend time with God but to rest, pray, fast, worship, and do whatever He wants you to do!

Bring plenty of paper, pens, pencils, and highlighters. 4

16  SEPTEMBER 2016


7 Try to do some type of fast during your sabbatical. Fasting makes your spirit more sensitive to the Lord. If possible, start fasting the day before your sabbatical as part of your preparation. Drink plenty of water to flush out any toxins brought out by the fast and bring warm clothes. Fasting tends to make you feel colder than usual.

5 For organizational purposes, I keep a “sabbatical binder” and list on separate pieces of paper topics in my life I feel the Lord may want to address in the next year (ministry, relationships, family, to do, prayer requests, and work). I place these pages into different areas of a binder so that each topic is easy to find when I need to write down things the Lord is saying. I also have a general topic entitled “Sabbatical (Year)” where I can write anything the Lord says that is not under a specific topic.

8 Do not go into the sabbatical with a set agenda. Pray for God’s agenda to be accomplished. The purpose is not to get something from God but to spend time with Him. I usually begin the sabbatical by asking the Lord to reveal to me any sin in my life I am not aware of.

11 Keep your focus on the Lord and use this time to build your relationship with Him. I avoid all newspapers, magazines, and television. It is fine to bring a few books along, but it is usually best to keep them to a minimum. It is easy to get involved in reading a book and lose a lot of time meant for the Lord. Additionally, this is typically not the best time to do an in-depth Bible study on a specific topic. It can be very time consuming and distract you from spending time with God and hearing from Him.

Keep outside contact to a minimum. I check in with my family once every two or three days and avoid outside conversations. 9

“ I F YO U WA N T TO D E V E LO P A B E T T E R R E L AT I O N S H I P W I T H GO D , I T TA K E S T I M E . I F YO U WA N T A N S W E R S A N D W I S D O M , YO U N E E D TO S P E N D T I M E W I T H H I M .”

6 Create a blank “To Do” list at the beginning of the sabbatical. Any time you think of a task that you need to do at work, at home, etc., immediately write it on this list so you don’t have to spend time thinking about or trying to remember it.

10 It is good to get out of your room periodically. I like to take a quiet walk once a day and sometimes walk at night. There is nothing wrong with doing an activity that takes your mind off the sabbatical as long as it is for a short time.

12 Submit your will to Him, and ask Him to direct and guide you. Ask Him to give you revelation as you read His Word. The Lord wants to speak to you more than you want to hear from Him. GL

Steve Dulin is an associate senior pastor at Gateway. He oversees our business leaders’ ministry and leads the monthly Habitation Service at the Southlake Campus. He and his wife, Melody, have two grown daughters and one granddaughter.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM  17


Circle the answer that best describes you.

WHEN YOU GET IN YOUR CAR TO GO SOMEWHERE NEW, YOU:

a. Immediately turn on your maps app. b. Call someone to ask how to get there. c. Sit in awe. Your dead car battery just started working again. d. Tuck an extra $20 bill in your wallet, just in case. e. Acknowledge Him so He’ll direct your path (Proverbs 3:6). f. Pray against the spirit of rage during traffic.

YOU FINALLY GOT A NEW JOB. YOU:

a. Call your dad, who rewards you with a new coat. b. Shrug. You totally heard from God that you were going to get that job. c. Fall to your knees. It’s truly a miracle. d. Immediately calculate your tithe. e. Decide to work as unto the Lord. f. Cast out the spirit of Netflix that may threaten your future productivity.

WHEN A FRIEND ASKS YOU HOW YOU’RE DOING, YOU ANSWER:

a. “I realized I’ve been eating out of pig troughs, and I need to just go home.” b. “I’m a sheep. I’m a friend. I’m a prophet.” c. “All of these amazing things have been happening! My dog’s leg was broken, but then it was healed! And then I found $20 in my purse! And then my great aunt called and told me she won the Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes!” d. “#blessed” e. “I am a child of God, daughter of Zion! The head and not the tail!” f. “Footloose and fancy free!”

WHEN YOU GO TO THE GYM, YOU:

a. Are thrown a party, because you’ve been gone a long time. b. Hear a still, small voice telling you to go to yoga class so you can take a nap. c. Bench press twice as much as you think you can. d. Spend the last five minutes of your workout tucking $50 bills in everyone’s gym bags. e. Scream through your workout, “His yoke is easy and His burden is light!” f. Never lift weights. You were told to put things down, not pick them up.

WHEN YOU GO TO CHURCH, YOU:

a. Habitually lose your car in the parking lot. b. Tune in to hear God. c. Are amazed you made it in time for the first worship song. d. Go to the café and buy lattes for the next five people in line. e. Wonder if the church building measures up to all the tabernacle regulations in Leviticus. f. Refer to it as “the place where they have KAIROS.”

LOST& FOUND A Prodigal’s Journey

A

G

A

T

E

W

A

Y

S

E

R

I

E

S

IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY As:

You are Lost & Found, Gateway’s series on the prodigal son from Luke 15:11–32.

IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY Bs:

You are Frequency. This series talks about tuning in and hearing God’s voice.

FREQUENCY A GATEWAY SERIES

IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY Cs:

You are the Miraculous series, which focuses on how miracles still happen in this day and age. IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY Ds:

You are the The Blessed Life series. The life-message of Pastor Robert, The Blessed Life focuses on living generously. IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY Es:

You are the It Is Written series, which emphasizes the importance of God’s Word in our daily lives. IF YOU ANSWERED MOSTLY Fs:

You are Free Indeed. This series discusses different doors we may leave open to the enemy and how to close them. GL To view these or other sermon series, visit sermons.gatewaypeople.com.

18  SEPTEMBER 2016


GATEWAY DALLAS

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYDALLAS

FIFTY-PLUS BIBLE STUDY

Sundays | 9:00 am | Classroom 2A Fifty-Plus is a ministry that helps individuals and couples, ages 50 and up, build community through relationships. If you’re part of the 50+ crowd, then you’re invited to join us for Bible study and fellowship! Contact: Dorothy Newton, 469.801.7208, fiftyplusdal@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Sep 10 | 9:00–11:45 am | Classroom 2A This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, vision, and history and gives you the opportunity to become a member of Gateway. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kelly O’Briant, 469.801.7222, ctvdal@gatewaypeople.com

RELATIONSHIP SUCCESS CLASS

Sundays, Sep 11–Oct 2 | 9:00 am | Chapel This fun and interactive class will provide biblical tools to build fulfilling relationships with family, friends, and coworkers. God’s Word contains powerful ways for connecting with people, resolving conflict and healing broken relationships. Register at marriage.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Brigette Ferrier, 469.801.7209, equipdal@gatewaypeople.com

EVANGELISM NIGHT FEATURING JIM MUNROE & MAZE

Friday, Sep 9 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium Everyone is invited for a night of amazement! Jim Munroe, one of the top Christian illusionists/evangelists in the world, will perform and share his incredible testimony and the gospel. Bring your friends! Contact: Marc Bolling, 469.801.7237, outreachdal@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENTS

Wednesdays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium We now have our Wednesday night services for 7th–12th grade students. Every student who wants to experience God, connect with amazing people, and have an incredible time is welcome! Contact: Carly McLaughlin, 469.801.7230, studentsdal@gatewaypeople.com

PRAY FIRST

Thursdays | 7:00–8:00 am | Prayer Suite Join us as we gather to worship and pray! Come ready to connect with God and release His kingdom on earth through prayer. Contact: Tracey Newcomer, 469.801.7206, prayerdal@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP

Sundays, Sep 11–Oct 2 | 9:00 am

We have a great semester coming up! Join us for our Freedom Basics classes as well as classes in stewardship. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Brigette Ferrier, 469.801.7209, equipdal@gatewaypeople.com

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING


ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY MEN LAUNCH BREAKFAST

Saturday, Sep 17 | 8:30–10:30 am At Gateway Men, we desire to seek God first in everything we do. We are focused on hearing from the Lord through prayer, His Word, and healthy community. At this meeting, we’ll talk about all the ministry opportunities we have and our calendar of events. Contact: Dustin Sample, 469.801.7219, mendal@gatewaypeople.com

NIGHT OF WORSHIP

Sunday, Sep 18 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium Everyone is invited to come for extended worship and ministry as we join as a family to worship the Lord. Afterward, we’ll all enjoy food and an After Party with family friendly games. We can’t wait to see you there! This event is free, and seating is first-come, first-served. Children’s ministry is available, birth through five years old. Contact: Ruben Robles, 469.801.7232, worshipdal@gatewaypeople.com

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

YOUNG ADULTS

BABY DEDICATIONS

Tuesdays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

Sep 17–18 | Before Weekend Services | Auditorium A baby dedication ceremony is where parents make a commitment before the Lord to raise their child according to God’s Word and God’s ways. To register your child to be dedicated, visit kids.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Donna Hunt, 469.801.7231, babiesdal@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY KIDS 5TH AND 6TH GRADE MINISTRY LAUNCH

Sep 24–25 | During Weekend Services | The Mix We’re welcoming all 5th and 6th grade students to our Gateway Kids service launch. We have a service just for you where we have fun and learn about God. Contact: Rob Warfel, 469.801.7236, kidsdal@gatewaypeople.com

GUEST EXPERIENCE TRAINING

Saturday–Sunday, Sep 24–25 | Prayer Suite If you are looking for a place to serve and build relationships, we have a place for you! You are invited to attend our next training where you can learn more about being a greeter, usher, Welcome Center & Guest Central host, or parking lot attendant. For more information and to register, email servedal@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kelly O’Briant, 469.801.7222

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If you’re in your 20s or 30s, join us each week as we connect with each other, experience God, and have a great time! Contact: Jade Washington, 469.801.7220, youngadultsdal@gatewaypeople.com

ENCOUNTER GOD: A PINK NIGHT OF WORSHIP & PROPHETIC

Thursday, Oct 20 | 7:00 pm

Gateway Women invites you to join us for a very special Pink Night as we encounter the presence, love, and voice of God. This night will feature a time of worship and prophetic ministry! Contact: Dorothy Newton, 469.801.7208, womendal@gatewaypeople.com

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

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, ushers, and greeters. For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kelly O’Briant, 469.801.7222, servedal@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium THURSDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00–8:00 am | Prayer Suite SUNDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 10:45 am | The Mix

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.


GATEWAY FRISCO

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYFRISCO

GATEWAY STUDENTS

Wednesdays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium We have awesome Wednesday night services for 7th–12th grade students. Every student who wants to experience God, connect with amazing people, and have an incredible time is welcome! Contact: Michelle Mueller, 817.552.7334, studentsfrs@gatewaypeople.com

BASIC FREEDOM TRAINING

Thursday–Saturday, Sep 29–Oct 1 This is the first of a two-part process that gives you the tools you need to assist in ministering freedom to others. You will receive an introductory teaching on freedom and be equipped to lead others to a new level of hearing God. Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.552.5868, freedomfrs@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY GROUPS

Begins Sep 11

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at the Frisco Campus, join us for our fall semester of Gateway Groups! Find a group at groups.gatewaypeople.com or pick up a Groups booklet at the information booth. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, groupsfrs@gatewaypeople.com

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, Sep 17 | 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. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, menfrs@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Oct 1 | 9:00 am | Lobby

Come learn more about Gateway’s purpose, values, and history and explore how to get involved. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Vernita Lovett, 817.552.7517, ctvfrs@gatewaypeople.com

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING


ANNOUNCEMENTS

ENCOUNTERING GOD: A PINK NIGHT OF WORSHIP & PROPHETIC

Thursday, Oct 20 | 7:00–9:00 pm Gateway Women invites you to encounter the presence of God during this night of worship and prophetic ministry. This event will be live at every campus. We look forward to spending the evening with you! Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, womenfrs@gatewaypeople.com

WORSHIP TEAM ACADEMY

Thursdays, Aug 18–Nov 3

Worship Team Academy is our exciting 12-week, video-based curriculum (for piano, guitar, or vocals) to train musicians in worship theology and musical craft. For more information, visit wta.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Ashley Jackson, 817.552.7541, worshipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

KINGDOM ADVISORS’ LUNCHEON

Monday, Sep 8

We offer in-depth training and a tight-knit community for Christian financial professionals who want to integrate their faith with their practice. Lunch is provided. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jacquelyn Bushnell, 817.552.7428, stewardship@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY EQUIP

Saturdays, Beginning Sep 10 | 5:45 pm | Classroom B Sundays, Beginnings Sep 11 | 9:00 am & 12:30 pm | Classroom B

We are excited for a new semester of incredible Equip classes that will challenge you in your walk with the Lord, enrich your marriage and family, and bring greater levels of freedom to your life. For specific dates and classes, visit equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.552.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

JOIN AN OUTREACH GROUP BABY DEDICATIONS

Sep 17–18 | Before Weekend Services | Auditorium A baby dedication ceremony is where parents make a commitment before the Lord to raise their child according to God’s Word and God’s ways. To register your child to be dedicated, visit kids.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Janet Braselton, 682.223.6062, kidsfrs@gatewaypeople.com

If you are looking for a way to get connected while serving our community at the Frisco Campus, join an outreach group! Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, groupsfrs@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium FRIDAYS »» Men’s Prayer Meeting | 6:00 am | Lobby SATURDAYS »» Gateway Equip | Beginning Sep 11 9:00 am | Classroom B SUNDAYS »» Gateway Equip | Beginning Sep 11 12:30 pm | Classroom B

22  SEPTEMBER 2016

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.


GATEWAY GRAND PRAIRIE

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYGRP

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

YOUNG ADULTS VOLUNTEERS

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, youngadultsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

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

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 use your gift to serve and minister God’s grace to families in need at our local food pantry. Contact: Steve Taylor, 972.262.8318, staylor@tjsercenter.org

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS) Saturday, Sep 10 5:00 pm | Classroom 2A

This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, vision, and history and gives you the opportunity to become a member of Gateway. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Joel Maldonado, 972.314.9108, ctvgrp@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM  23

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING


ANNOUNCEMENTS

EQUIP FALL SEMESTER

Sundays, Sep 11–Nov 13 9:00 am & 10:45 am This fall we are offering a wide range of Equip classes featuring Jewish Equip, Topical Freedom Classes, Stewardship, Spiritual Life, and Marriage & Family. To register, visit equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Angela Wescott, 972.314.9106, equipgrp@gatewaypeople.com

BIBLES AND BROWN BAGS

GUEST EXPERIENCE VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION

Wednesdays, Beginning Sep 14 10:00 am–1:00 pm | Classroom 2A This fall, bring your brown bags (packed lunch) and Bibles for a morning of the Word, fellowship, and small groups (including a fitness group)! Registration coming soon. Contact: Bri Kramer, 972.314.9098, womengrp@gatewaypeople.com

Saturday–Sunday, Sep 17–18 Classroom 2A

Help us create an atmosphere for people to encounter the Lord. Come learn more about serving with us! Register at gxp.gatewaypeople.com.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

Saturday, Sep 17 | 7:00 pm We are looking forward to sharing this fun time with you and your family! Concessions will be available for purchase prior to the movie. Register at kids.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Neesy Brooks, 972.314.9101, kidsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

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

BAPTISM VOLUNTEERS

Sep 24–25 | During Weekend Services Come be part of the team that makes this event a huge success and celebration! You can set up registration and classrooms, give out T-shirts and towels, guide people to different areas, help set up changing areas, and more. No experience is necessary. Contact: Joel Maldonado, 972.314.9108, baptismgrp@gatewaypeople.com

PARKING LOT ATTENDANTS

We are looking for people who love to be outside and want to serve. Bring your sunscreen and help us welcome people to the Grand Prairie Campus! For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Joel Maldonado, 972.314.9108, gxpgrp@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am Ministry Center, 2410 N Carrier Pkwy (Canceled on Holiday Weekends)

24  SEPTEMBER 2016

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.


GATEWAY NORTH FORT WORTH

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYNFW

FINANCIAL HOPE WORKSHOP

Sundays, Sep 11–Oct 23 | 9:00 am (7451 N Beach St | Suite 176) Through this seven-week workshop, you’ll learn how to create a financial plan for your life, including basic budgeting, a debt repayment strategy, and a plan for avoiding future debt by building a solid savings plan. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, stewardshipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES FALL SEMESTER

Mondays, Sep 12–Nov 14 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

Join us weekly for a complimentary dinner at 5:30 pm and then Nights of Worship or teachings about relevant topics for single parents. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, spfnfw@gatewaypeople.com

DIVORCE CARE CLASSES

Mondays, Sep 12–Nov 17 | 7:00 pm (7451 N Beach St | Suite 176)

GATEWAY MARRIAGE NIGHT: A LOVE FOR ALL SEASONS

Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. Divorce Care is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Register at spf.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, spfnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Friday, Sep 9 | 5:30–9:00 pm Join us for a truly memorable night of teachings from Pastor Marcus & Lexa Brecheen, Pastor Mondoe & Lisa Davis, and Pastor Mike & Judy Brisky. There will be food, fun, and time to connect with others. Cost: $25 per couple. Register at marriage.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Shannon Tolliver, 817.552.7469, marriagenfw@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

1st Saturday of Every Month | 4:00 pm | Compass A 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: Donya Allen, 817.552.5899, gxpnfw@gatewaypeople.com

FREEDOM BASICS CLASSES

Saturdays, Sep 10–Oct 1 | 4:00 pm English & 5:45 in Spanish | Compass B These exciting classes are designed to set the stage for you to begin your journey toward true freedom in Christ and lay the ground work for you to hear who God made you to be. Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY EQUIP FALL SEMESTER

Mondays & Saturdays, Sep 10–Nov 12

Come meet new people, grow spiritually, and get equipped to fulfill your calling! We have classes on Spiritual Life, Marriage & Family, Stewardship, and Freedom. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.558.5801, equipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM  25

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING


ANNOUNCEMENTS

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, Sep 17 8:00–9:30 am Men of the North Fort Worth Campus, join us for an incredible breakfast. This is a great place to bring your boys, meet other men, and hear an encouraging message. Register at men.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Matt Osgood, 817.552.5846, mennfw@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN’S EQUIP

Mondays, September 12–26 | 7:00 pm “Women of the Bible” Saturdays, October 15 & 22 | 4:00 pm “No Longer an Orphan” Join the Gateway Women’s team as they talk about the journey from feeling like an orphan to discovering you’re a daughter and bring the women of the Bible alive! Contact us for more information or to register. Contact: Christy Atkinson, 817.552.3657, womennfw@gatewaypeople.com

BASIC & INTERMEDIATE FREEDOM MINISTRY TRAINING

Tuesdays, Beginning Sep 20 | 7:00 pm | Compass B Join us to learn the tools that minister freedom to others. Come be equipped to lead others to a new level of hearing God and receiving His freedom. For prerequisites, more information, and to register, email freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com

LAUNDRY PROJECT

Saturday, Oct 15 | 8:00 am–2:00 pm North Fort Worth Area Laundromats We’re partnering with LaundrybyCurrent.org to assist low-income families by meeting a basic need—washing clothes and linens! You can volunteer with the pre-event prep team, donate laundry items, or help onsite at the laundromats the day of the event. Register at outreach.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Matt Osgood, 817.552.7581, outreachnfw@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY MEN | TAKING BACK BRUNCH

Saturday, Oct 29 | 9:30–11:00 am Grand Ballroom, Texas Motor Speedway

We’re taking back brunch! Bring your friends and your sons to the manliest brunch in Texas— free of tea, crumpets, and quiche. We’ll also have special guest speakers you won’t want to miss. Register at men.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Matt Osgood, 817.552.5846, mennfw@gatewaypeople.com

ALPHA GROUPS

WOMEN’S NIGHT OF PRAYER & WORSHIP

Thursday, Sep 22 | 7:00 pm Compass A & B

Join us as Pastor Rita Springer leads worship and we gather to pray and rest in God’s presence. Contact: Christy Atkinson, 817.552.3657, womennfw@gatewaypeople.com

If you are a new believer or interested in learning more about Christianity, join an Alpha Group. For more information, visit groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Bruce Menefee, 817.552.7285, alphagroups@gatewaypeople.com

FIND OR LEAD A GATEWAY GROUP!

This is a perfect time for you to get involved with one of our many types of Gateway Groups. For more information, visit groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Byna Terndrup, 682.223.6072, groupsnfw@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

FREEDOM & ALTAR MINISTRY

Do you enjoy praying with people? Do you have a heart to see people healed and set free? We are looking for individuals to serve on our Freedom and Altar teams. We are also looking for Spanishspeaking individuals. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY CARE

Gateway Care offers encouragement to people who are experiencing hospitalization, critical illness, birth, adoption, or loss of a loved one. For after-hours crisis, call 817.328.1000. Contact: Debbie Rhodes, 817.552.7325, carenfw@gatewaypeople.com

TUESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00–8:00 am | Auditorium »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium WEDNESDAYS »» 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

26  SEPTEMBER 2016

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.


GATEWAY NRH

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYNRH

MEN’S PRAYER

Wednesdays | 6:30–7:30 am | Lobby Gateway Men gather to pray for the men of our church. We worship and pray for men to turn their hearts toward God and effectively lead their homes, businesses, and communities. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, mennrh@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENTS

Wednesdays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium We have awesome Wednesday-night services for 7th–12th grade students. Every student who wants to experience God, connect with amazing people, and have an incredible time is welcome! Contact: Kyle Fox, 817.552.3786, studentsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

BARABBAS FREEDOM MINISTRY

PRAY FIRST

Sundays | 7:00 pm | Chat Room

Mondays | 7:00 am | Lobby Come join us every Monday morning as we gather together and pray for what the Lord is putting on our hearts.

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, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

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

Saturday, Sep 10 | 4:00 pm | Chat Room

ACFT SCHOOL MENTORING

September–May | ACFT Elementary School Do you desire to invest in the next generation? By giving just one hour a week you can become a part of our mentoring program. For more information, visit outreach.gatewaypeople.com or email outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144

FIFTY-PLUS BIBLE STUDY

Tuesdays | 10:00 am

If you’re a part of the 50+ crowd, you’re invited to our Fifty-Plus Bible Study. We meet on Tuesday mornings for Bible study and fellowship. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.4144, fiftyplusnrh@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

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: Christina Newton, 817.552.5870, ctvnrh@gatewaypeople.com

YOUNG ADULTS CONNECT NIGHT

Tuesday, Sep 13 | 7:00 pm If you are in your 20s or 30s and interested in connecting with other people, join us! Contact: Brian McNabb, 817.552.7318, youngadultsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING


ANNOUNCEMENTS

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, Sep 24 8:00–10:00 am Join us for a great time of hanging out with other guys, putting on a few pounds, engaging in worship, and hearing from the Lord. To register, email mennrh@gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.4144

BABY DEDICATIONS

Sep 10–11 | 10 Minutes Before Every Service | Auditorium If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com by Monday, September 5. Space is limited! Contact: Amy Sellars, 817.552.7342, babiesnrh@gatewaypeople.com

FIFTY-PLUS | THE PROMISE MUSICAL

Friday, Sep 16 | 4:30 pm | Glen Rose, Texas

Join us for a trip to see The Promise musical, which features live animals, breathtaking special effects, and the story of Jesus Christ in modern, family friendly fashion. Cost: $38 includes your ticket, roundtrip bus transportation from the NRH Campus, and a boxed dinner. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.4144, fiftyplusnrh@gatewaypeople.com

THE BLESSED MARRIAGE

Sundays, Sep 18–Oct 2 | 9:00–10:00 am | Classroom A

You have the chance to sow promising seeds of love that will undoubtedly bring a harvest of blessing. Wherever you are in your marriage, this series will help you achieve the blessed marriage God has designed for you and your spouse. Register at marriage.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE REVOLUTION

Saturdays, Sep 24–Nov 12 | 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 marriage.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP CLASSES

BLESSED MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT

Oct 27–30 | The Inn at Lake Granbury

Join us this fall for a journey to increase the intimacy in your marriage! Pastor Stan and Mandy Dennis, along with Pastor Wendell and Stacey DePrang will speak on our theme, Return to Intimacy. Cost: $390 per couple. Space is limited. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, marriagenrh@gatewaypeople.com

JOIN OR LEAD A GROUP

If you are looking for a way to get connected at the NRH Campus, join a group! We are also looking for group leaders. We have men’s groups, women’s groups, marriage & family groups, singles groups, young adults’ groups, and more! Register at groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Rachel Sabo, 817.552.5885, groupsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

LEAD AN OUTREACH GROUP

If you are looking for a way to get connected while serving our community at the NRH Campus, lead an outreach group! Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

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

VOLUNTEER CREATIVE & SOCIAL MEDIA TEAMS

We have two exciting teams you can get involved in! The creative team would help set up and decorate at our events, and for the social media team we need people who are passionate about photography and would like to see their photos on NRH Campus social media! Contact: Katherine Hesami, 817.552.3600, creativenrh@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN’S MENTORING

PARKING LOT ATTENDANTS

Mentoring is a powerful one-on-one relationship that offers a way to connect with another woman through instruction and accountability. Contact: Rachel Sabo, 817.552.5885, womennrh@gatewaypeople.com

We are looking for people who love to be outside and want to serve. Bring your sunscreen and help us welcome people to the NRH Campus! For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christina Newton, 817.552.5870, gxpnrh@gatewaypeople.com

PRAYER TEAM

This month we are offering a wide range of Equip classes featuring Jewish Equip, Parenting, Freedom, and Marriage topics. For more information, stop by the Equip booth in the Lobby or visit equip.gatewaypeople.com.

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.

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

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Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.


GATEWAY SOUTHLAKE

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYPEOPLE

EQUIP | FAMILY CLASSES

Wednesday Nights

We are offering a variety of Equip classes for singles, single parents, parents, and engaged/married couples. For more information, visit equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kristine Lopez, 817.328.2030, family@gatewaypeople.com

FREEDOM GROUPS

Mondays, Sep 12–Nov 21 | 7:00 pm The Conquer series (helps men struggling with sexual addiction) and the Rescued series (supports women whose husbands are struggling with sexual addiction) are 10-week small groups offered to provide help, resources, and healing to men and women. Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Monica Bates, 817.552.7363, freedom@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY EQUIP

Wednesdays & Weekends Through Nov 20 This fall, in addition to our regular Wednesday and weekend classes, we are excited to announce our newest class, Heart of Compassion & Backbone of Steel. 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: Bree Vasquez, 817.552.7483, ctvslk@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS IN GRIEF

Tuesdays, Sep 13 & 27 | 7:00 pm This program provides grief support for children and teens working through the pain of death and moving toward healing. Register at care.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Rebecca Freed, 817.552.7454, grief@gatewaypeople.com

BABY DEDICATIONS

Sunday, Sep 18 | 2:30 pm A baby dedication ceremony is where parents make a commitment before the Lord to raise their child according to God’s Word and God’s ways. To register your child to be dedicated, visit kids.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Cheryl Morgan, 817.552.7431, babies@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL FITNESS Sunday, Sep 25 | 12:00 pm Classroom 1C

This class is a great follow-up to any of our Gateway Stewardship classes and provides ongoing accountability to ensure long-term success. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jacquelyn Bushnell, 817.552.7428, stewardship@gatewaypeople.com

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING


ANNOUNCEMENTS

OUTREACH WEEKEND

Oct 1–2 | Weekend Services This year, we want to inspire you and help you find a place to serve your community. We are also welcoming worship leaders from around the world and Pastor Brian Houston from Hillsong Church to celebrate what God is doing locally and around the world. For more information about our international ministries, visit outreach.gatewaypeople.com. YOU BELONG IN A GATEWAY GROUP

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

PARKING LOT MINISTRY

Help us prepare hearts for worship by answering questions, giving tours, helping new guests, or assisting folks in finding a parking space. To learn more, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com or stop by the Welcome Center during weekend services. Contact: Jim Mayher, 817.552.7566, gxp@gatewaypeople.com

BASIC FREEDOM TRAINING

Thursday–Saturday, Sep 22–24 This is the first of a two-part process that gives you the tools you need to assist in ministering freedom to others. You will receive an introductory teaching on freedom and be equipped to lead others to a new level of hearing God. Prerequisites: Catch the Vision, Freedom Basics, KAIROS. Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Elizabeth Settle, 817.552.7368, freedomslk@gatewaypeople.com

ANCHOR OF HOPE CLASS

Sundays, Sep 25–Dec 4

If you and your spouse are seeking healing in the aftermath of infidelity, whether it’s emotional infidelity, physical infidelity, pornography, and/or sexual addiction, join us for this 10-week recovery class. Contact us for more information. Contact: Crystal Persick, 817.552.7571, anchorofhope@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS Thursday, Oct 20 | 7:00 pm

Gateway Women invites you to join us for a very special Pink Night as we encounter the presence, love, and voice of God. This night will feature a time of worship and prophetic ministry! Contact: Jessica Harry, 817.552.3775, womenslk@gatewaypeople.com

KAIROS

Thursday–Friday, Nov 10–11 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

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TUESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00 am | Guest Central »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium

ENCOUNTER GOD: A PINK NIGHT OF WORSHIP & PROPHETIC

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

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.


MEN’S NIGHT

Thursday, Sep 8 | Activities 5:00 pm | Service 7:00 pm

SLK

We’re kicking off the fall with an amazing night packed with entertainment, food, cool activities, and worship. You won’t want to miss it! Register (ages 12 and up) at men.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: David Rivera, 817.552.3631, men@gatewaypeople.com

CHRISTMAS MUSICAL AUDITIONS

Sep 8–9 & 11

If you’re a singer, actor, or dancer looking for an opportunity to use your skills at church, audition for our Christmas musical! Register at performingarts.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Rachel Turner, 682.223.6913, performingarts@gatewaypeople.com

Friday, Sep 9 | 7:30 pm | Auditorium

SLK

Come hear Dr. Shawn Moir (of Baruch HaShem Messianic Synagogue in Dallas) share his testimony about finding Jesus after being raised in a Jewish family of rabbis. Preservice prayer begins at 7:00 pm. Habrá Traducción en Español. Contact: Oli Snyder, 817.552.7452, jewish@gatewaypeople.com

THE KING’S UNIVERSITY PREVIEW

Friday, Sep 9 | 6:30–9:00 pm | Classroom 205

UC

Join us to find out more about our Messianic Jewish program! Speak personally with our staff and faculty about admissions, degree plans, financial aid, and more. Register at www.tku.edu. Contact: Angela Tranel, 817.552.7381, angela.tranel@tku.edu

HABITATION

Sunday, Sep 11 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium SLK FRS GRP NFW

Join us for a special time of worship, testimonies, and ministry. Prayer starts at 5:15 pm. For more information, visit habitation.gatewaypeople.com.

PRAYER FOR ISRAEL

Tuesday, Sep 13 | 7:00 pm | The Mix Join us as we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, the salvation of Israel, and divine protection for the Jewish people. Contact: Mark Anthony, 817.552.3789, israelprayer@gatewaypeople.com

KAIROS II

Thursday & Friday, Sep 15–16 | Auditorium

SERVICE TIMES GATEWAY YOUNG ADULTS RETREAT

Friday–Sunday, Sep 23–25 | Sky Ranch in Van, Texas If you’re in your 20s or 30s, we’re having a retreat to build community, hear awesome teachings, and have fun! Register at gatewayyoungadults.com. Contact: Katie Willis, 817.552.5871, youngadults@gatewaypeople.com

CHURCHWIDE WATER BAPTISMS

Sep 24–25 | Weekend Services | All Campuses

SLK

MESSIANIC SERVICE

LOCATIONS &

SLK

KAIROS II is a safe place to find greater freedom in Christ and be prepared to grow in freedom in our day-to-day lives. Register at kairos.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Krystina Simon, 817.552.7606, kairos2@gatewaypeople.com

THE GATHERING | A NATIONAL SOLEMN ASSEMBLY Wednesday, Sep 21 | 7:00 pm | All Campuses

Join Pastor Robert, Dr. Tony Evans, Max Lucado, and others for this powerful event as we unite in prayer for forgiveness, wisdom, and blessings for our nation. Register at thegathering2016.com. Contact: Jeanne Bodnar, 817.552.3660, thegathering@gatewaypeople.com

We want to celebrate your decision to surrender your life to the Lord through water baptism! Register at baptism.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Bree Vasquez, 817.552.7483, baptism@gatewaypeople.com

SPANISH NIGHT OF WORSHIP

Sunday, Sep 25 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium

DAL

Join us for our very first Spanish Night of Worship featuring Pastor Coalo Zamorano and Friends. Invita a tu familia y amigos a una noche increíble de alabanza y adoración. ¡Te esperamos! Contact: Ruben Robles, 469.801.7232, worshipdal@gatewaypeople.com

CREATIVE ARTS CLASSES

Oct 10–Nov 14

SLK

Join us for our Performing Arts classes (acting, dancing, and singing) and classes focused on the visual arts (drawing, film, photography, and songwriting). Classes meet weekly. Cost: $25 per six-week session. Contact: London Wright, 817.328.2018, creativearts@gatewaypeople.com

SANDI PATTY CONCERT

Sunday, Oct 30 | 7:00 pm

SLK

Join us for an exclusive time with Christian music legend Sandi Patty and special guest Veritas. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit premierproductions.com. Contact: Rachel Melton, 817.552.3728, worshipconnection@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 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 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

GATEWAY KIDS PAID POSITIONS

Join us in shaping this next generation for the future God has prepared for them. We have paid positions for all campuses. For more information, contact us or visit jobs.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Anne Hardin, 817.552.7475, kidsjobs@gatewaypeople.com

CHRISTMAS PRODUCTION VOLUNTEERS & COSTUME MAKERS

We need a lot of volunteers to help with our Christmas production, including people to help create brand new costumes for our fun and endearing characters! Contact: Rachel Turner, 682.223.6918, performingarts@gatewaypeople.com

HISPANIC MINISTRY VOLUNTEERS

Are you bilingual in Spanish and English and wanting to get involved? We have exciting opportunities available! ¿Es usted bilingue y desea servir? Tenemos varias oportunidades en el ministerio hispano. Contacte: Mary Calderón, 817.552.7426, spanish@gatewaypeople.com

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY AVAILABLE

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium SLK DAL

GRP NFW

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)

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHURCHWIDE


ACTIVITIES

DREAM JOB

Describe in words or draw a picture of yourself at your dream job.

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THEY HAD WHAT JOB?!

Answer these True/False questions about our Gateway pastors’ previous lines of work.

___ Pastor Marsia Van Wormer worked

WHERE

FAITH + POP

CULTURE

MEET

by Shea Tellefsen

at Starbucks. ___ Pastor Allan Kelsey served in the South African military. ___ Pastor Mary Jo Pierce worked for American Airlines as a flight attendant and instructor. ___ Pastor Samantha Golden was a preschool teacher. ___ Pastor Eric Orson appeared as an “Other” on the TV show Lost. ___ Pastor Josh Briscoe was a Dallas Mavericks Funslinger. ___ Pastor Dorothy Newton authored a book.

THIS YEAR, BROADWAY’S HISTORYDRIVEN RAP MUSICAL HAMILTON has taken the world by storm—winning 11 Tony’s, a Grammy, and a Pulitzer Prize. The writer and star of Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda, has become a household name. Miranda credits his stroke of genius to taking a much-needed vacation with his family (after a long stint in another show he wrote) where he happened to dig into a biography of Hamilton. “It’s no accident that the best idea I’ve ever had in my life came to me on vacation,” Miranda said in an interview with Huffington Post. It’s such an interesting juxtaposition to the life of America’s youngest founding father, Alexander Hamilton. While Miranda took time to rest and has even stepped away from his wildly popular role as Hamilton, Hamilton himself burned out. Throughout the show, all the signs are there. In “NonStop,” Hamilton is taunted about his endless work ethic, and his wife, Eliza, begs to share a fraction of his time. And when he accepts the highly influential role of Treasury Secretary, she says he will never be satisfied. Later in the show, Eliza tries to convince him to just take a break and go on vacation with her. He says: “I can’t stop until I get this plan through Congress” (“Take a Break”). He stays home to work but gets caught up in an affair with another woman. “I hadn’t slept in a week / I was weak, I was awake / You never seen an orphan / More in need of a break” (“Say No to This”). As the musical numbers fly by, Hamilton continues to spiral. Eliza leaves him for several years, his son dies in a duel on behalf of his father’s diminishing reputation, and Hamilton eventually dies in a duel with Aaron Burr. We can learn a lot from Hamilton’s demise and Miranda’s success. Rest is crucial in our lives. It’s so important that God made one of the Ten Commandments about it: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8). When we take the time to rest our souls, we are refreshed to do what God has called us to do. Miranda argues that Alexander Hamilton could’ve been one of America’s greatest presidents if he had just taken a break. What could you achieve if you just took the time to rest?

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM  23

Answers: All are true!


PROFILE

on the boat, and we just sat in the middle of the lake and hung out. I have a grill on the boat, and I could just grill burgers out there all day. I hope it’ll make great memories for the kids.

LEVI SMITH LEVI SMITH IS THE WORSHIP PASTOR AT THE GRAND PRAIRIE CAMPUS. HE AND HIS WIFE, CANDISS, HAVE TWO KIDS: CASH AND AUSTEN. I WAS THE LEAD SINGER IN A ROCK BAND called Radiant. We were together for 10 years and toured and traveled all over the world. We played in a lot of clubs, and after growing up in a Christian home, it was interesting to see the other side. There was a point in time when most of my friends weren’t Christians, and I was able to have conversations about Jesus and witness to them. LATE ONE NIGHT a commercial came on for Jimmy Kimmel’s Best Unsigned Band in America competition. I thought, why not? So I went online and submitted our information. I didn’t tell anyone, and then two weeks later our manager got a phone call saying we won! He thought it was a joke! They flew us out to New York City, put us on the Today Show, and let us record in Jimmy Hendrix’s studio in Greenwich Village. The

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coolest part was we actually got to perform at the 2006 New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square and play for over a million people. It was unreal. I WAS A BULL RIDER IN HIGH SCHOOL. I’m shocked to even say it out loud, but several of my friends got into it, so naturally, I had to get into it too. We competed every weekend for two years. I even broke my arm once because a bull threw me off and stepped on it. To this day, it’s the scariest thing I’ve ever done. I’VE ALWAYS BEEN AN ADRENALINE JUNKY. Skateboards, dirt bikes, motorcycles, big scary ramps— you name it. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always tried to test my limits. Racing motorcycles was my last big thing, but I recently sold them. The older I get, the more it’s started to subside. Now I’m into boating. I bought an old ’70s yacht, and it comes with its own set of thrilling moments. It’s pretty scary to drive around because it’s so big and old. Sometimes it breaks down and leaves us stranded in the water, and we’ve got to figure out how to get home! But it’s a lot of fun. MY FAVORITE THING TO DO, other than go on Caribbean vacations with my wife, is take our kids and friends out on our boat. Just the other day, we had 20 people

I GAVE MY KIDS TEXAS NAMES. Our son’s name is Cash, which is very Texan sounding. When we had a girl, I thought about Austin, Texas—my favorite city. I have family there, and I’ve spent a lot of time there playing music and making great memories. So we thought it would be cool to name her after the city, except we spelled it with an “e”—Austen. I GREW UP IN THE CHURCH, but it took me some time to come into my own relationship with God. I went through a rebellious phase in high school where I didn’t want anything to do with the church, but my dad was a pastor, and my mom kept begging me to go to church with her. Eventually, I went with her to a service, and I’ll never forget what happened. During worship, I went down to the front, and the senior pastor, Olen Griffing, prayed for me, and I felt the presence of God for the first time in my life. After that, I was completely different. I had always felt drawn to worship, but that was when I felt called to be a worship leader. MOST OF MY PREVIOUS JOBS involved music. Whether I was touring with my band, teaching guitar lessons, working at a music store, or running my own recording studio, music has been a big part of my life since I was a kid. The most out-of-the-box job I had was installing fire alarm systems in brand new buildings for a construction company. For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.


WEDNESDAY, SEP 21 | 7:00 PM DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 PM ALL CAMPUSES*

Join us for this powerful event as we unite in prayer for our nation. R E G I S T E R AT T H E G AT H E R I N G 2 0 1 6 . C O M . For more information, email thegathering@gatewaypeople.com. *Live at the Southlake Campus and simulcast to the other campuses.

Join us for classes designed to help you grow in your spiritual life! FALL SEMESTER

AUG 31–NOV 20 Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.


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AVAILABLE AS A COMBINATION CD/DVD AT THE GATEWAY BOOKSTORE! Also on iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon Music & Spotify.

DOWNLOAD THE GATEWAY LIFE APP AND READ GATEWAY LIFE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.

G AT E W AY L I F E M A G . C O M

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