Gateway Life | January/February 2013

201 Ja n · F e b 2013

WIth a Little Help From My Friends p. 8

Gateway Church would not be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers.

RE.solutions p. 10

His & Hers p. 12

Pastor Allan Kelsey brings a unique perspective to New Year’s resolutions.

A fresh look at our men’s and women’s ministries.

2

Contents comments

2 Welcome 3 Feedback

4

Gateway People

5 Tell Me Something Good

6 Outreach

features

8

With a Little Help From My Friends Gateway Church would not be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers.

10

RE.solutions Pastor Allan Kelsey brings a unique perspective to New Year’s resolutions.

12

His & Hers A fresh look at our men’s and women’s ministries.

His & Hers p. 12

16

Calendar

18

Kairos

19

Song Story

20 profile

Welcome to Gateway Life I want to take this opportunity, not only to wish you a happy new year, but to say thank you for this past year. 2012 was a huge year for Gateway: we sent Pastor Preston Morrison to Arizona to plant Gateway Scottsdale, the North Fort Worth Campus started meeting at Fossil Ridge High School and The King’s University at Gateway just finished its first semester. These things are really just the tip of the iceberg—and that absolutely blows me away! God did some amazing things in and through our church and none of it would have been possible without you. He empowered us to build His kingdom in 2012, and He’s empowering us to continue building it in 2013.

As we set out to reach more people in 2013, it’s important for us to pray and hear from God. At this time of year, lots of people make plans, goals, vision statements and resolutions for the year to follow. (For more on New Year’s resolutions, read Pastor Allan Kelsey’s article on page 10.) We can make plans for ourselves and for Gateway Church, but if they are not God-breathed, they’re a waste of time.

Hebrews 9:14 (ESV) says the blood of Christ will “purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.” A simple, correct definition of “dead works” is “sin,” but I’d like to suggest

another one to go along with it: A dead work is any work that God does not initiate.

Many people try to initiate a lot of “good” works by themselves. Because these works are not initiated by the Holy Spirit, they don’t bring life, healing or breakthrough. This year, and every year, we have to pray, hear from God and do what He says. Then, instead of doing our works, we can do His works. His works never fail!

This issue of Gateway Life covers some great topics and ministries. I encourage you to ask God how He wants you to respond to the things you read about. Read the stories of our amazing volunteers (page 8), then ask God how He wants you to serve. When you read about our men’s and women’s ministries (page 12), pray about joining the one that applies to you.

Finally, pray about going to KAIROS (page 18), a phenomenal event run by Gateway’s Freedom

God is so good! I know He will be faithful to guide us in His steps in 2013.

Ministry specifically designed to help you connect with and hear from God. Let’s continue to hear from Him together and ask Him to change the world through us. God is so good! I know He will be faithful to guide us in His steps in 2013. We have a great year ahead of us!

Pastor Robert

Senior Pastoral Oversight David Smith // editor-in-chief Lawrence Swicegood // managing editor Stacy Burnett // senior editor Josh Coad Editors S.George Thomas, Joyce Freeman // creative director Shane Dennehey // art director, designer Jeremy Tyson Illustrator (Inside-Front Cover) Megan White // project manager Micah Joiner // contributing photographers Natasha Brown, Scott Cornelius, Amy Pugh // gatewaylifemag.com

2 Gateway life January · February 13

“”

“I was in need of a job really bad and told God how sorry I was for failing at jobs He helped me get. As I prayed, it felt wrong to ask for God’s help again, so I asked, ‘Why would You even help me again?’ I heard God speak clearly in my soul as if we were face to face: ‘Because I want you to get it right.’ His love is indescribable. Glory to God.” –John Eisenring Sr. (via Facebook, in response to Pastor Robert’s quote from the Sept/Oct issue) It's a subject of constant debate, so let's settle it once and for all: When's the right time to start listening to Christmas music?

“All the time, anytime! I like to start when we decorate our tree, usually the weekend after Thanksgiving.”

– Nelda Powell Estridge

“November 1 and stop February 2.”

– Lupe Maria Castrellon

What are you looking forward to most in 2013?

“His perfect will strengthening my family. A family road trip!”

– Toya M. Gibson

“Now that I have recuperated from my second hip replacement, I look forward to walking and jumping and getting on the floor to play with my granddaughters!”

– Shirley Ulrich Newingham

“Start? Who stops?”

– Marty Christensen

Say What?!

1. AMPED (ampt) is: A. The name of Gateway’s coffee shop B. Gateway’s Jr. High ministry C. The official energy drink of Gateway Church D. Pastor Robert’s rap album

Feedback

What do you have to say?

We love hearing from you as we continue to bring you the latest Gateway stories and news. We want to continue to include comments from you—our readers, about all things Gateway. What’s the Holy Spirit showing you through Pastor Robert’s sermons? Do you have a testimony from a recent Gateway service or event that you want to share? What’s your favorite article in the latest Gateway Life? What do you want to see in future issues? We want to know! On Facebook, feel free to comment on any photos, questions, news or articles we post. You can also talk to us on Twitter or email us at life@gatewaypeople.com. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts, opinions and insights!

Sincerely, The Gateway Life Team

All answers taken from the Gateway Church Facebook page.

Defining Gateway Church Lingo

Carefully consider these Gateway names and choose the correct definition from the choices below!

2. PrimeTime (prı-m tı-m) is: A. Gateway’s ministry for adults (50+) B. The block of television programming during the middle of the evening C. An American news magazine show which debuted on ABC in 1989 D. All of the above

3. The Well (thuh wel) is: A. The name of Gateway’s coffee shop B. A popular nickname for Gateway’s baptismal C. A monthly night of worship and prayer D. A local watering hole not affiliated with Gateway Church

4. Fresh Start (fresh stahrt): A. A brand of kitty litter B. A brand of deodorant C. A brand of fabric softener D. Gateway’s ministry for new believers

gatewaypeople.com 3

Answer Key 1:B 2:D 3:C 4:D

It’s a Life … And It’s Wonderful

It’s a Life … And It’s Wonderful

It’s a Life … And It’s Wonderful

It’s a Life … And It’s Wonderful

NFW Groundbreaking

It’s a Life … And It’s Wonderful

NFW Groundbreaking

NFW Groundbreaking

NFW Groundbreaking

NFW Groundbreaking

Global – Reach

Global – Reach

Global – Reach

Global – Reach

Global – Reach

Tell Me Something Good “My family and I moved to the Metroplex from Waco this summer.

We tried a few churches but didn’t find ‘the right one.’ After hearing about Gateway from several friends and neighbors, we visited during The Lord’s Prayer sermon series. While listening to Pastor Robert, we were touched by the Holy Spirit. We knew we were where we needed to be. All four of us were baptized on Sunday after the 9:00 service! Thank you so much! We look forward to growing closer to God and the church family.”

–Loren, Jenny, Payton and Kenzie Jantz

“My family has been blessed through the Single Parent Family Ministry in so many ways. The love they have for my children was the reason I chose to become a Gateway member. The family meals they’ve provided have helped keep us fed.

The church helped us financially during the most intense part of my son Kye’s (who was diagnosed with acute lymphatic leukemia in 2010) treatment and blessed us with Christmas gifts. Most importantly, my family has grown spiritually. I am now involved and receiving guidance in the mentor program and taking steps to become involved in

the healing ministry. Words can’t describe my gratitude for the support, encouragement and guidance I have received through the brothers and sisters at Gateway who shine with God’s love. I thank God for guiding me here. Thank you!”

–Tina Sapp

“The past few months we started our first-ever Kid’s Equip classes. I was teaching a class called ‘Disciple Up,’ helping kids understand what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. At the end of the last class, I asked if anyone in the room needed prayer.

An adult worker in the room raised her hand and said she had cracked a bone in her foot a few days before and was in tons of pain. So the kids in the room started shouting, ‘Let’s get it healed!’ The kids laid hands on her foot and prayed for her. They could feel movement in her foot and in about three minutes, all the pain had left her foot and she was healed! 10- and 11-year-olds felt a shattered bone form back together while they were praying. God loves to work through kids!”

–Josiah Solis (Coordinator, Mix56)

“Since 2008, I have suffered from gallstones. I prayed on many

occasions for them to be eliminated and believed in my heart for my healing, but I would still suffer from painful attacks. I took an Equip Class this year called Healing Ministry Training 1 & 2. After receiving prayer in class, I went to get a CT scan and there were absolutely NO signs of any gallstones on my x-rays. Praise God. I am healed!”

–Gigi Otero

“I wanted to send a great big THANK YOU to the team behind the new Kid’s Equip classes. My son refuses to miss a single Equip night.

I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to see my 8-year-old son excited to come to church and learn. Thanks to his excitement and dedication, I have also received some powerful teaching through the Equip classes I have participated in. Please know, I am not the only parent who feels this way. A girlfriend of mine has had a similar experience with her son the last couple of weeks. He can’t wait to come to Equip! Thank you so much for all you do to teach our children and help them grow in the love and wisdom of the Lord!

You are such a blessing to me and my family!”

–Kyra Unger

Want To Tell Us Something Good?

Send us your stories and testimonies by emailing life@gatewaypeople.com.

gatewaypeople.com 5

Outreach

Every year,

Gateway Global Ministries takes teams of Gateway members all over the world to spread the gospel and minister to those in need. Here are the various Gateway ministry trips you can be a part of in 2013!

Central America

Guatemal a Gateway teams will work with two ministry partners: Aselsi Ministries (specializes in medical ministry and leadership training) and His Appointed Time Ministries (focuses on elementary Christian education, restoration ministry and water ministry).

Honduras

Haiti

Poverty Rate of Children:

Gateway members will minister with MMDR (Mobile Medical Disaster Relief ), a Christian humanitarian organization that serves the poor, oppressed, medically vulnerable and neglected children by providing pure water and enabling self-sufficiency through micro-entrepreneurship.

>50%

Gateway members will help Jimmy Hughes Ministries with construction projects and evangelism. Jimmy Hughes Ministries runs a drug and alcohol rehab center, a children’s home, a prison ministry, a disaster relief program and a food distribution ministry. They are currently building a home for pregnant teenagers.

Seven (Young Adults) August 5–14

Families March 10–17

Nicaragua

Congregational June 17–23; December 2–7

6 Gateway life January · February 13

South America

NxtGen August 11–18

Single Parent Families TBD

Pink (Gateway W omen) May 3–10

Congregational March

Gateway Men May 11–18

NxtGen March 10–16

Unit y (Gateway Married Life) April 27–May 4

Carribean

Argentina

This ministry trip will focus on construction, medical and children’s ministry.

The Gateway team will work with Bet-El Ministries, who focus on meeting spiritual and material needs.

Through their feeding program, hundreds of people are fed every day.

Families TBD

Congregational August 19–24

All statistics taken from operationworld.org.

Africa

Egypt Gateway will take a team to a remote village to minister to locals through serving and outreach.

Europe

Congregational April

Sierra Leone

47

Average Life Expectancy:

In this country devastated by poverty, Gateway will partner with Fresh Hope to minister to the poor, the orphans and disadvantaged.

Congregational October South Africa

73,000 Jews:

The team will work with numerous churches and ministries, particularly Emet Ministries, to minister to the Jews of South Africa.

Middle East Israel

Germany

119,000 Jews:

We’ll travel to Germany for Jewish Evangelism.

Gateway will join with ministry partner Succat Hallel (Tabernacle of Praise) for evangelism, prayer and intercession.

Jewish Ministries June

Congregational May 8–19

Greece

Prayer September 19–25

Pink will take a group of women to spread the gospel.

NxtGen TBD

Asia

Congregational September

New trips are added throughout the year. For a complete list and more information on any of these trips, visit globaltrips.gatewaypeople.com.

NxtGen March 10–17

Pink (Gateway W omen) November 4–11

Thail and In this country, the mission team will work with local contacts to address the issue of human trafficking of young children.

Congregational/NxtGen TBD

gatewaypeople.com 7

If you want to understand how important volunteers are to Gateway Church, you need look no further than a classic Beatles lyric: “I get by with a little help from my friends.” Gateway Church has many well-staffed ministries, but they can’t make Gateway Church what it is on their own. They need helpful friends. by

Josh Coad

hankfully, our church is blessed with countless sacrificial volunteers who give their time and energy to expand God’s kingdom.

Brad Stahl, pastor over volunteers, says, “Volunteers are building the kingdom.

They’re taking what God put inside of them and using it to help somebody else.”

8 Gateway life January · February 13

There are many Gateway volunteers of all ages, occupations and skill sets, but each one has their own unique story and experience of how their service has impacted the lives of others. Take a few minutes to read about three of these exceptional people.

Jim McKinney

Pastor Brad described Jim as someone who loves to connect with people. He knows that’s an important part of church.” Brad wasn’t joking. A phenomenally friendly 72-year-old retiree, Jim volunteers at Guest Central during weekend services and at Catch the Vision (Gateway’s membership class).

When I interviewed Jim, he enthusiastically told me how much he loves meeting people, viewing his ability to talk to newcomers as a gift from God: “A lot of people aren’t comfortable meeting others, but I love to meet people,” he says. “Beyond just saying, ‘Hi, my name is Jim. What’s yours?’ I want to learn who they are and why they’re here.”

During his time as a greeter, Jim has encountered many amazing individuals, including a missionary from Katmandu who fights child slavery, a woman who runs a ministry for strippers, a pilot from New Zealand with an incurable disease (Jim prayed with him for healing) and a family who moved to DFW from Iowa just to attend Gateway Church. “I hear that almost every Sunday,” Jim says.

“People move here for this church.

That blows my mind!”

Anthony Coppedge

Anthony embodies what it means to be a volunteer. A Section Leader for Gateway Groups, a member of the volunteer ministry team and a coach for MAP (Ministry Activation Program), Anthony is passionate about helping those who complete the Discovery class find their own perfect fit as a volunteer based on their unique gifts, skills and strengths.

In his role as a MAP coach, Anthony guides new volunteers as they discover how they can serve in a fulfilling way, free from guiltdriven obligation and stressful overworking. Anthony describes volunteering, not as a few people working until they burn out, but as a large number of people operating in their God-given talents.

He says, “Volunteering is about serving in ways that are in alignment with what I’m designed to do.” He believes any Gateway member can find a place as a volunteer because, “There is only one ‘you’ out there.

Your unique gifts and strengths are crucial to the body of Christ. As a local church, we are less of who we can be when we’re doing ministry without you.”

Lynnell Tysl

Seven years ago, Lynnell started volunteering at the church offices, helping in different departments and getting to know people. After learning more about Gateway and its ministries, she settled in as a long-term volunteer for Pink (Gateway Women). Now, she works on the Pink hospitality team and helps plan décor for numerous events, particularly Pink Impact.

Lynnell feels it’s important for her to volunteer at Gateway because she loves the opportunity to give back and to work with so many wonderful people.

“When I’m volunteering, it never seems like work. It’s like a party!” she says.

In a large church like Gateway, many people fear being lost in the shuffle, but Lynnell reaches out to the new women at Pink events. They may walk hesitantly through the front door, but they quickly feel at home when they meet Lynnell and other Pink volunteers. Lynnell says, “I enjoy meeting and learning about other women from so many different places and walks of life.” She strongly encourages any Gateway member interested in volunteering to go for it: “You will learn so much, and you can change lives.

It doesn’t get any better than that!”

“There is only one ‘you’ out there. Your unique gifts and strengths are crucial to the body of Christ. As a local church, we are less of who we can be when we’re doing ministry without you.”

continued on page 19

gatewaypeople.com 9

RE.solutions New Year’s resolutions can be a beating. Although we start with good intentions—lose 10 pounds, read more books, watch less TV, etc.—we all too often fall short and are faced with the repeated frustration. by

10 Gateway life January · February 13

Allan Kelsey

T

he word resolution is really a combination of two parts: re and solution. Recently, I have discovered a big difference between what we call a resolution and an actual RE.solution. Both are inspired by fresh commitment, but they use different approaches and aim for different targets. Knowing which commitment you have made will strengthen your chances of success. Let me explain …

In Isaiah 50:4–7 (NKJV), Isaiah speaks a bold resolution. In the face of opposition, he resolves in verse 4 “to speak a word in season to him who is weary,” despite great opposition. He underscores his intention with this amazing statement in verse 7: “For the Lord God will help Me; therefore I will not be disgraced; therefore I have set My face like a flint, and I know that I will not be ashamed.”

I love Isaiah’s resolve here. He shows determination and displays confidence because he knows “the Lord God will help Me” and because of that, he knows he will not have the shame that comes from not finishing his resolution.

That is what resolutions are. They are simply a commitment or an intention to change a habit or action that is a part of your life. According to this scripture, resolutions seem to be more likely accomplished when you can say: • That God will help you.

• That you can work it into the routine of your life by practicing the habit.

• When the determination to “set your face like a flint” is present.

A RE.solution on the other hand, has less to do with what you do and everything to do with who you are.

This kind of RE.solution attempts to bring order or RE.solve to something about who you are, to fix something that feels broken or out of place. To do that, you have to go back to the

“Every New Year, we try to fix our problems through resolutions without realizing that God already solved these problems when He created us.”

time that it was “solved” for the first time. This is a call to understand your identity. Your identity and original makeup is how God “solved” you the first time.

Consider God’s intentions about how He “solved” you on your day of creation: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10).

It’s very clear we are one-of-a-kind masterpieces in God’s eyes, made in Jesus with specific, clear, good works in mind; God prepared us for those works before we got here and His intention is that we should walk in them.

The only time God would need to RE.solve these in you again is if you stray from them or if you never knew them in the first place. Furthermore, your “solve” is your Identity and it speaks to your destiny in Him. This explains why He inspires you to make a RE.solution. He knows a strong part of your destiny is in your identity, and He wants to RE.solve it in you. This kind of RE.solution simply allows God to reset and reorient you around the design He created in you when you were first “solved” or created.

Every New Year, we try to make changes through resolutions without realizing God already solved these problems. Let’s allow Him to re-solve us in the areas we’ve stumbled. Resolutions have value in what we do, but what if God wants to inspire change at a deeper level? This year, let’s make some RE.solutions and allow God to change who we are. GL Gateway’s I.D.Seminars are a great way to discover your God-given identity and destiny. For more information, email id@gatewaypeople.com.

Listen to more thoughts on RE.solutions from Pastor Allan here.

gatewaypeople.com 11

his

God, Guys and Cabbages

by Josh Coad

Cabbages were flying everywhere. In the war zone below, teams of men surrounded their catapults, cheering as they launched repurposed produce across the church lawn. Gentlemen, welcome to church. While not your typical church event, this catapult competition was part of last year’s Men’s Summit (Gateway’s men’s conference), and it was a huge hit. Clearly, it’s ok to have fun at church.

Men’s Pastor Todd McIntyre believes the most effechers tive way to minister to men is to let them have fun. Men aren’t always prone to sit through long services or get to know each other over an extended coffee break, but honestly, what man can’t appreciate a well-designed cabbage-catapult? By developing friendships through fun, men are much more comfortable tackling spiritual issues with each other. When that happens, powerful

by Shea Tellefsen ministry takes place.

Gateway member Russell Cloud says, “Since Pink. The color of the blanket on a newborn baby girl. The coming to Gateway, the men’s ministry has had a color used to package dolls and princess toys. The color many very positive impact on my life. I have discovered young girls claim as their favorite. But for Pink (Gateway Women), that having great friendships with other men who it’s so much more than a color … more than a stereotype of the love and serve the Lord is of critical importance. typical woman. It’s a mission.

I am a better husband, father and man of God as Since Pastor Debbie started Pink, it’s been a mandate to crea result of walking along with Gateway men.” ate an overall sense of belonging and community among Gateway Russell’s not the only man who feels this way. women in an environment where women can get saved, healed, set The ministry is designed to reach and include free, discipled, equipped, empowered and serving.

Based on Gateway’s vision, the Pink Team has really broken the mold of what a women’s ministry looks like. Pastor Debbie has made it a point to say that Pink “isn’t your mom’s women’s ministry.” It isn’t just for tea-drinking, knitting ladies anymore (although Pink is for them too!). Pink is for all women—those in the corporate world, stay-at-home moms, junior high, senior high and college students, retired women, girls who love lace and frills, girls who hate the color pink … everyone.

“When we say you’re pink, what we really mean is: whatever you’re passionate about, wherever you’re serving—walk in the greatest feminine strength you can. Be yourself,” Jan Greenwood, Pastor of Pink, said.

gatewaypeople.com 13

all men, from teens to retirees. “Men of all ages in the church are a part of the men’s ministry,” Pastor Todd says.

This is especially evident in the ministry’s mentoring program, in which men meet with an older mentor, once a week for a year, for Bible study, fellowship and prayer. Many mentored men go on to be mentors themselves. “We want to continually reproduce disciples,” says Men’s Ministry Coordinator, Matt LaBorde. After encountering God at last year’s Summit, Tod Williams went through mentoring and discipleship.

“Looking back from last year, I’m not the same man,” Tod says. “I’m walking in the light, honoring and loving my wife, and experiencing the anointing and gifting God has placed on my life.”

In addition to mentoring, Gateway men can participate in weekly prayer (Thursday mornings at the Southlake Campus) and serve in the Brigade, an outreach team that serves widows, the elderly and single parents by assisting with basic handyman needs around their homes. “They came to my rescue,” said one Gateway single mom.

The men’s ministry also offers men’s Equip classes, small groups, special Gearing Up services, fun events (often And to help each woman become who God called involving guns and barbeque) and partnerships with other them to be, Pastor Debbie and her team want to foster Gateway ministries (including a young men’s retreat with a multi-generational environment where the Titus 2 Seven). Pastor Todd says that through it all, the ministry mandate is a strong thread. wants to “connect guys to God and to each other.”

“I want older women to use their influence, their stories, This goal is the driving force behind the upcoming their experiences to teach younger women to be lovers of 2013 Men’s Summit (March 7–8). Just like last year, God and lovers of their families,” Pastor Debbie said. the event will kick off with tailgating (come hungry!)

Both groups of women are crucial to Pink’s ministry. The and a show by Vertical Adrenaline Motocross Minisolder woman is valued as a mentor, as someone who can use her tries. Men will also be able to check out the gadgets experience to pass on wisdom and as someone who is a wonderful friend. The younger woman, thrown into the most chaotic and transitional season of life, is looking for someone to lean on and learn from—a confidant, a friend. And each learns from the other.

This past September, that vision was put into action as Hot Pink (women 18–29) and WILD (Women in Leadership Development) went on a combined weekend retreat to Allaso Ranch. The WILD women, emerging leaders, were able to mentor and speak prophetic words over the Hot Pink women. All of the women worshipped together, ate meals together and kayaked in the rain together. The Pink Team sees this as the beginning of a natural sense of community over all age groups.

“Many relationships between the Hot Pink and WILD ladies were started and fostered as God blessed the commandment for older women to mentor the younger,” said Katie Smith, who attended the Hot Pink Retreat. “I came out of the retreat with a few key messages from God about my life and with the knowledge that there were ladies I could count on to support and mentor me.”

Pink wants to see every woman, in every stage of life, mentor and minister to those in a stage they’ve already walked through. You just

Pink wants to see every woman … mentor and minister to those in a stage they’ve already walked through.

14 Gateway life January · February 13

on display in the lobby, including, but not limited to, some incredible TVs and video games; and participate in iRacing, car simulators used by actual Nascar drivers. On Friday, men will team up to build soapbox derby cars and race them in the parking lot!

In the sessions, men will have the opportunity to worship and hear from great speakers, including Pastor Robert, Judah Smith, John Gray and Pastor Todd. Pastor Todd believes these sessions will encourage and empower men walking through tough times: “A lot of men are asking, ‘Why? Why have I lost my job? Why do I struggle in relationships? Why am I troubled in so many different areas?’ I believe God wants to answer those questions.”

When God steps in and answers the cry of men who come to Him, it doesn’t just change the men, but their families as well.

At last year’s Summit, Gateway member Chris Griffin received a word from God that revolutionized his marriage. “The Men’s Summit gave me an opportunity to receive a revelation from God that has impacted my life forever. Gratefulness doesn’t even adequately describe how I feel. It was just awesome in celebrate your five-year wedding anniversary? every way,” he says.

You have a wealth of knowledge to share with an Tod Williams says, “I encourage and challenge all men to come to this year’s Summit and experience God. He has engaged woman. Maybe you recently graduated colsomething He wants to tell you.” GL lege—you have incredible insight to pass on to high school seniors. There’s always someone younger you To learn more about Gateway Men, visit men.gatewaypeople.com or can pour into. email men@gatewaypeople.com.

There are so many ways you can get involved to both impart and receive wisdom and use your gifts through For more information, conference dates or to register for Men’s Summit, Pink. There’s Pink Groups, Pink Equip classes, Pink Menvisit menssummit.com. toring, Pink Prophetic, Pink Voice, volunteering at Pink events. You can even submit original articles to Studio G (a magazine for women).

Pink Impact (a Gateway women’s conference) is another great way to get involved with other Gateway women. Each year, thousands of women gather to encounter God and connect with other women of all ages—from Pretty in Pink (Jr. High) girls and Hot Pink women to mothers and grandmothers.

At Pink Impact this year, you’ll hear from Charlotte Gambill, Christine Caine, Priscilla Shirer, Perry Noble, Judah Smith, Kari Jobe and more!

Outside of Pink, every area of Gateway is available to you—Altar Ministry, Freedom Ministries, Amazing Kids and countless others.

“Our entire church needs our women. Pick a place of passion and begin,” Pastor Jan said.

You are pink. GL

When God steps in and answers the cry of men who come to Him, it doesn’t just change the men, but their families To learn more about Pink and ways you can get involved, visit pink.gatewaypeople.com or as well. email pink@gatewaypeople.com.

For more information, conference dates or to register for Pink Impact, visit pinkimpact.com.

gatewaypeople.com 15

Calendar

J a nu a r y wed

F e b ru a r y

Sun

Mon

Tues

thurs

fri

sat

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

wed

thurs

fri

sat

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

14

15

16

17

18

19

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

21

22

23

24

25

26

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

27

28

29

30

31

24

25

26

27

28

5–9

Make plans to attend this exciting conference as we begin the year by putting God first in our lives!

jan

17

Pink Night 7:00 pm Southlake Campus Frisco Campus (Live Simulcast) You’re invited to a special Pink Night with a timely message from Pastor Kari Jobe.

7–11 & 14–18

21 Days of Worship & Prayer 7:00–8:00 am Southlake, NRH & Frisco Campuses jan

Tues

13

First Conference

jan

Mon

20

*No events are scheduled for New Year’s, December 31–January 1, including recurring monthly events. jan

Sun

12–feb 3

Love Expressed Series Groups Join one of our special series groups as we discuss what worship is, how we live it out and why worshipping can completely change everything.

jan

1

Generate Night of Worship 7:00–9:00 pm Southlake Campus Join us as the next generation gathers for a night set aside to seek and worship God. feb

Water Baptism 3:00 pm Southlake Campus

Kairos

27

Skate Night 6:00–8:00 pm Skate Town, Grapevine This is a great place to have fun with your family and fellowship with others who go to Gateway.

16 Gateway life January · February 13

feb

3

Baby Dedications 2:30 pm Southlake Campus feb

feb

8–10

Proximity Sr. High Winter Camp Waxahachie, TX Senior high students, don’t miss your opportunity to experience a lifechanging weekend!

3

24–25

9:00 am–5:00 pm Southlake Campus jan

feb

8–9

Lifelong Love Affair Marriage Conference Southlake Campus NRH & Frisco Campuses (Live Simulcast)

feb

15

PrimeTime Valentine’s Dinner & Dance 7:00 pm DFW Airport Marriott South feb

22

The Well – Night of Worship 7:00–9:00 pm Southlake Campus feb

28–mar 1

Kairos 2 9:00 am–5:30 pm Southlake Campus This event builds on all the principles of the original KAIROS and will take you to new levels of wholeness and healing.

Recurring Events

Weekend Services

Kids/Students

Unity (Marriage)

AMPED (Jr. High, 7th–8th Grade)

• Marriage Challenge

Sundays // 5:30 pm

Sundays // 9:30 am

SLK NRH

Wednesdays // 6:30 pm

SLK

InfinitiYouth (7th–12th Grade, Kids of Single Parents) Mondays // 6:00 pm

700 Blessed Way Southlake, TX 76092

FRS

InfinitiKids (Birth–6th Grade, Kids of Single Parents) Mondays // 6:00 pm

Southlake Campus

MIN

SLK

MOR (Sr. High, 9th–12th Grade)

Gateway Equip Mon // 7:00 pm

FRS

Begins Feb 4

Wed // 7:00 pm

SLK

Begins Jan 23

Jewish Messianic Service Fri, Jan 4 & Feb 1 // 7:30 pm

NRH Campus

SLK NRH

Catch the Vision (Membership Class)

Wednesdays // 7:30 pm

FRS

Saturday, Jan 12

GSA (Singles)

Saturday, Feb 2

SLK SLK

Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Spiritual Growth

• Worship Service

DayTime Bible Study (Senior Adults)

Mondays // 7:00 pm

Tuesdays // 10:00 am

• Divorce Care Mondays // 7:00 pm

SLK

Foundations of Freedom Classes

• Breakout Classes

Sundays // 10:45 am

Mondays // 7:40 pm RE (Single Parent Families) • Meal

FRS

Mondays // 7:00–9:00 pm

NRH

Frisco Campus

• Prayer Tools Class

• Worship Service

Sundays // 9:00 am

Mondays // 7:00 pm

7125 Legacy Drive Frisco, TX 75034

SLK

• Pray First

• Breakout Classes Mondays // 7:40 pm

Saturdays // 4:00 pm

SLK NRH

• ReNew (Single Moms)

Saturdays // 5:15 pm

FRS

Mondays // 7:00 pm

Sundays // 8:30 am

FRS

• Legacy (Single Dads)

Sundays // 9:00 am

SLK NRH

Sundays // 10:40 am

PrimeTime (50+)

SLK

SLK

Wednesdays // 12:00 pm • Men’s Prayer Meetings Thursdays // 5:30 am

SLK

Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

• High Noon Prayer

• DayTime Bible Study

Tuesdays // 7:00 pm

Saturdays 5:45 pm

• Corporate Prayer for Our Nation

Mondays // 7:00 pm

Seven (18–29)

Fossil Ridge High School 4101 Thompson Rd Fort Worth, TX 76244

Prayer

Mondays // 6:00 pm

Tuesdays // 10:00 am

NFW Campus

Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Healing Ministry SLK

7501 Davis Blvd North Richland Hills, TX 76182 Saturdays 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm

FRS

9:00–11:30 am

SLK

Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

NRH

Wednesdays // 6:00 pm

Adults

Saturdays 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm

Fridays // 6:00 am

FRS

SLK

SLK

Key MIN Ministry Center FRS Frisco Campus

NRH NRH Campus SLK Southlake Campus

gatewaypeople.com 17

KAIROS: Past, Present and Future Josh Coad

Y

“

Every conversation I have with KAIROS attendees inevitably leads to these words. Over the past few years, I’ve spoken to numerous friends and Gateway co-workers whose lives have been deconstructed, rebuilt and renewed through a phenomenal encounter with God during KAIROS. Despite all this positive press, I’d never attended KAIROS, until this past November. I decided I’d held out long enough, so I signed up, blocked out the two-day event on my calendar and waited to see if it would live up to the hype. ou must go to kairos.”

PAST What is KAIROS? As an ancient Greek word, it’s used in the New Testament to mean “the appointed time in the purpose of God.” As a ministry of Gateway Church, it’s a two-day event focused on receiving emotional, spiritual and physical healing through experiencing God’s presence. It’s an “appointed time” for people to rediscover their identity in Him. Six years ago, Pastor Rebecca Wilson helped start KAI ROS, fulfilling a dream from the Lord. As a professional counselor, she had helped many individuals experience God’s freedom one-on-one and wanted to bring that ministry experience to filled auditoriums.

Over the years, KAIROS has remained true to this vision.

For multiple people to encounter God at once, the focus can’t be on any one person, pastor, minister or worship leader. Teaching, worship and individual ministry play a role in KAIROS, but ultimately, the goal is for attendees to receive from God, not a person. “We want to get out of the way and allow the Lord to minister to people,” says Pastor Tommy Briggs, who oversees KAIROS. PRESENT There are two big lies people tend to believe that keep them from attending KAIROS. If your past is filled with massive trauma, you may think, “I’m beyond help.” Not true. At KAIROS, there’s time and space to deal with every issue imaginable and to give your troubles to a strong God who can handle anything.

18 Gateway life January · February 13

If however, like me, you have no huge, immediately recognizable issues from your past, you might think, “I don’t need help.” Again, not true. I quickly learned I had plenty of issues, even if I didn’t recognize them. I had to ask God to show me the internal obstacles in my life and help me deal with them. He showed me plenty, but it wasn’t daunting or scary—it was freeing!

For example, the Holy Spirit revealed to me that, because of a few minor events from my childhood, I had developed a fear of God withholding guidance from me.

In an instant, I saw how this previously unnoticed fear ran through my entire life. Then I felt the Lord speak to me clearly: “You don’t have to guess My will. I will always guide you and show you what you need to know.”

FUTURE My KAIROS experience is just one of thousands. “People have scheduled appointments with pastors in Freedom Ministry, only to cancel them after going to KAIROS. They just didn’t need it anymore!” says Pastor Tommy. “I’m amazed by the transformation, healing and restoration people experience just from being in the Lord’s presence for two days.”

But it doesn’t stop there. The KAIROS team is expanding the vision for the future, encompassing all ages. Teen KAIROS will begin in 2013 and Kids’ KAIROS will continue after a successful start last year.

In 2013, the Freedom Ministry Department will introduce KAIROS 2, which deals primarily with sexuality.

“We simply didn’t have enough time in KAIROS to cover sexuality and gender issues,” Pastor Tommy says. “There needs to be a safe place to talk about these issues without shame.” A third KAIROS, devoted to marriage issues, will likely follow in 2014.

Clearly, there’s a place in the KAIROS experience for every person to encounter God’s presence and the freedom He brings. Regardless of our pasts, we all need to receive His love and live in His identity for us. If you’re on the fence about attending, I’ll just tell you what many others told me: You must go to KAIROS. GL

Song Story

If you want to understand how important volunteers are to Gateway Church, you need look no further than a classic Beatles lyric: “I get by with a little help from my friends.” Gateway Church has many well-staffed ministries, but they can’t make Gateway Church what it is on their own. They need helpful friends. by

Josh Coad

hankfully, our church is blessed with countless sacrificial volunteers who give their time and energy to expand God’s kingdom.

Brad Stahl, pastor over volunteers, says, “Volunteers are building the kingdom.

They’re taking what God put inside of them and using it to help somebody else.”

8

There are many Gateway volunteers of all ages, occupations and skill sets, but each one has their own unique story and experience of how their service has impacted the lives of others. Take a few minutes to read about three of these exceptional people.

Jim McKinney

Pastor Brad described Jim as someone who loves to connect with people. He knows that’s an important part of church.” Brad wasn’t joking. A phenomenally friendly 72-year-old retiree, Jim volunteers at Guest Central during weekend services and at Catch the Vision (Gateway’s membership class).

When I interviewed Jim, he enthusiastically told me how much he loves meeting people, viewing his ability to talk to newcomers as a gift from God: “A lot of people aren’t comfortable meeting others, but I love to meet people,” he says. “Beyond just saying, ‘Hi, my name is Jim. What’s yours?’ I want to learn who they are and why they’re here.”

During his time as a greeter, Jim has encountered many amazing individuals, including a missionary from Katmandu who fights child slavery, a woman who runs a ministry for strippers, a pilot from New Zealand with an incurable disease (Jim prayed with him for healing) and a family who moved to DFW from Iowa just to attend Gateway Church. “I hear that almost every Sunday,” Jim says.

“People move here for this church.

That blows my mind!”

Anthony Coppedge

Anthony embodies what it means to be a volunteer. A Section Leader for Gateway Groups, a member of the volunteer ministry team and a coach for MAP (Ministry Activation Program), Anthony is passionate about helping those who complete the Discovery class find their own perfect fit as a volunteer based on their unique gifts, skills and strengths.

In his role as a MAP coach, Anthony guides new volunteers as they discover how they can serve in a fulfilling way, free from guiltdriven obligation and stressful overworking. Anthony describes volunteering, not as a few people working until they burn out, but as a large number of people operating in their God-given talents.

He says, “Volunteering is about serving in ways that are in alignment with what I’m designed to do.” He believes any Gateway member can find a place as a volunteer because, “There is only one ‘you’ out there.

Your unique gifts and strengths are crucial to the body of Christ. As a local church, we are less of who we can be when we’re doing ministry without you.”

Lynnell Tysl

Seven years ago, Lynnell started volunteering at the church offices, helping in different departments and getting to know people. After learning more about Gateway and its ministries, she settled in as a long-term volunteer for Pink (Gateway Women). Now, she works on the Pink hospitality team and helps plan décor for numerous events, particularly Pink Impact.

Lynnell feels it’s important for her to volunteer at Gateway because she loves the opportunity to give back and to work with so many wonderful people.

“When I’m volunteering, it never seems like work. It’s like a party!” she says.

In a large church like Gateway, many people fear being lost in the shuffle, but Lynnell reaches out to the new women at Pink events. They may walk hesitantly through the front door, but they quickly feel at home when they meet Lynnell and other Pink volunteers. Lynnell says, “I enjoy meeting and learning about other women from so many different places and walks of life.” She strongly encourages any Gateway member interested in volunteering to go for it: “You will learn so much, and you can change lives.

It doesn’t get any better than that!”

GatEWay liFE JANuArY · FebruArY 13

“There is only one ‘you’ out there. Your unique gifts and strengths are crucial to the body of Christ. As a local church, we are less of who we can be when we’re doing ministry without you.”

continued on page 19

GAteWAYPeoPle.Com

9

With a little Help From My Friends continued from page 9 No matter your age or background, there’s a place for you to volunteer at Gateway. Volunteering is for everyone because anyone can make an impact when they choose to serve the Lord. “God designed His church as a body,” Pastor Brad says, referencing 1 Corinthians 12. “When we volunteer, we’re finding our place in the body and using our unique gifts for Him.” GL For more info on how you can help, call 817.552.3774, email volunteer@gatewaypeople.com or visit volunteer.gatewaypeople.com.

I

“I Hear The Lord Passing By”

By Tim Sheppard

In the early 90s, the Lord started speaking to me about revival. When most people hear the word “revival,” they might think of an annual three-day meeting, but the Holy Spirit defined it for me through Job 10:12 (ASV): “Thou hast granted me life and lovingkindness; and thy visitation hath preserved my spirit.” True revival is a holy visitation from the Lord that preserves us and restores us.

During this season, my family and I went to a revival meeting that dramatically affected our lives. While we were there, a friend told us to check out a sermon called “The Shout That Stopped God,” by a pastor from England. It was about blind Bartimaeus from Mark 10:46–52 and the true revival that happened in his life when he received a visitation from Jesus. The ideas in that sermon, combined with the theme of revival the Holy Spirit was already emphasizing in my life, inspired me to write “I Hear The Lord Passing By.” It struck me that Bartimaeus had to cry out and run after Jesus. This idea shows up in two specific lines: “Have mercy on me, Lord / Hear my cry of desperation,” and “Lord, I throw everything aside / Just to run blindly after You.” Bartimaeus cried out and ran, which in itself is difficult and dangerous for a blind man, and he threw off his cloak, which most likely represented his entire life savings. Nothing mattered but reaching Jesus.

It’s very interesting to me that after Bartimaeus received his sight, he accompanied Jesus and followed Him. He used the gift of healing he received to focus on the Giver. It wasn’t about healing; it was about knowing Jesus.

This truth heavily influenced the bridge of the song, which I added when we recorded it for Gateway Worship’s God Be Praised album in 2010. The first part of the bridge says, “I wanna see You / I wanna touch You / I wanna hold You / I wanna know You / I wanna follow You.” There’s a progression of intimacy here and a desire to draw closer to the Creator step by step. The next part sums up the heartbeat of God-breathed revival: “All my hope is in You / All I need is in You / My miracle is You.” It doesn’t say, “My miracle is in You,” but, “My miracle IS You.” The miracle is Jesus Himself.

You can hear “I Hear The Lord Passing By” on the Gateway Worship album, God Be Praised and on Tim’s album, Day of Visitation.

Pastor Tim Sheppard is a worship pastor and artist in residence at Gateway and an accomplished Christian recording artist.

gatewaypeople.com 19

Profile

it culturally relevant for Jewish seekers, and the whole service is dynamic and filled with life and the power of the Holy Spirit. We regularly see both Jews and Gentiles receive Yeshua as their Messiah.

That’s really special to me.

QA Pastor

Geoffrey Cohen

Geoffrey Cohen is Pastor of Jewish Ministries at Gateway.

He and his wife Michele have three sons—Ezra, Samson and Joseph—and a dog named Terry.

Where were you born?

Vryheid, South Africa—a small coalmining city of about 5,000. Only a handful of Jews lived there.

You have a degree in fashion buying and merchandising and a Bachelors degree in theology. That’s definitely a rare combination! How did that come about?

To be honest, I didn’t care much about fashion or the fashion industry. I just wanted to be in New York City. I was not a believer at the time and went there because I loved the fast pace and wild lifestyle.

What are your previous jobs?

I managed Christian bookstores in Virginia for almost six years, but didn’t enjoy working in retail. After that, I worked in marketing and new author acquisitions at Regal Books. That was

a very interesting job. I found at least one really good new author for them … Robert Morris! These jobs were my professions, but I have also been an active evangelist since I was saved.

It’s my passion.

What’s your salvation story?

When I went to school in New York, I was living it up and very popular while I was really miserable inside. I went back to Israel during the summer of 1984 and Jesus appeared to me three times in the Old City of Jerusalem. It turned my world upside down, or rather, right-side up!

What makes a Gateway Messianic service special?

The fact that both Jews and Gentiles are equally welcome and feel equally at home in our services. We have traditional Jewish elements in the service to make

20 Gateway life January · February 13

What’s the biggest misconception of Messianic Jews?

The notion that saved Jews leave their Jewish heritage and roots behind when they become a Christian. In reality, the opposite is true. When a Jew accepts Yeshua, they become a complete and fulfilled Jew. Jesus is the pinnacle and crowning glory of all the law and

against the apartheid government. At that time, whites would often be burned to death. I naively accepted the invitation, but I’m colorblind and love people. For a moment, I thought it would all be over for me, but it wasn’t my time and God protected me.

What’s the most dangerous thing you’ve ever done?

Probably racing a Porsche 911 on a GS1100L Suzuki chopper bike on a highway in South Africa. The guy I was racing tried to run me off the road as I overtook him at about 140 miles per hour. I was just young and a bit crazy, I guess.

How do Jewish traditions affect your everyday life?

I do not religiously follow all the traditions because there are so many.

Celebrating all the major feasts is a joy and helps me appreciate Yeshua. When I read the Bible, I notice nuances and traditions because I am a Jew. The Old Testament and all the feasts are filled with the revelation of Yeshua. the prophets. Since I received Jesus, my Jewish identity and love for my people and the nation of Israel has only increased.

What’s the craziest place in the world you’ve been to?

I was invited to preach in a home church in a South African township called Khayalicha during the uprising

For more about Pastor Geoffrey or any of our Gateway pastors, visit bios.gatewaypeople.com.

Who needs

NAPKINS SHIRT when you’ve got a

NOT YOUR AVERAGE MEN’S CONFERENCE

13 Thursday, March 7 Friday, March 8

Gateway Church Southlake Campus

Register Today at

menssummit.com

loveexpressed.gatewaypeople.com

gatewaylifemag.com

Download the Gateway Life app and read Gateway Life anytime, anywhere.

Available for iPhone, Android phones, iPad and Kindle Fire.