Gateway Life | March/April 2013

M A r · A p r 2013

The Power of Encouragement p. 8 Pastor Tommy Briggs shares how encouraging words forever changed his life.

Generous Life p. 12 Find out how Gateway’s Stewardship Ministry can help you.

Welcome to the Family p. 14 Join Pastor Tom Lane in this conversation about Gateway’s new campus.

Vision Weekend p. 10

Learn about our church’s journey over the past year and where we’re going next.

God does not call us to be

SUCCESSFUL He calls us to be

FAITHFUL –Rick Santorum

Contents comments

2 Welcome 3 Feedback

4

Gateway People

5 Tell Me Something Good

6 Outreach

features

The Power of 8 Encouragement

Pastor Tommy Briggs shares how encouraging words forever changed his life.

10

Vision Weekend Learn about our church’s journey over the past year and where we’re going next.

12

Generous Life Find out how Gateway’s Stewardship Ministry can help you.

to 1 the 4 Welcome family

Join Pastor Tom Lane in this conversation about Gateway’s new campus.

Vision Weekend p. 10 16 Calendar

on the cover Pastor Shawn Ring is overseeing the creation and implementation of Gateway’s new online discipleship experience, myGateway. For more information on myGateway, turn to page 11.

18

Primetime

19

Song Story

20 profile

Welcome to Gateway Life We’re releasing this brand-new issue on one of my favorite weekends of the year at Gateway: Vision Weekend! I find Vision Weekend so inspiring. As we look back with gratitude on the wonderful things God has been and is doing in and through Gateway, we gain wisdom, inspiration and, of course, vision for the future.

As I prepare to share with you the initiatives, goals and opportunities the Lord has called us to pursue over the coming year, I am overwhelmed with excitement. Why? Because I know we’ve already started this year right by putting God first.

The principle of firstfruits is something I preach on often, especially relating to finances.

It is critical and biblical that we give the first of our possessions to God. That’s why tithing is so important. When we tithe, we say, “God, I’m going to give to You first and trust you to bless the rest.”

This principle also applies to time. I am incredibly proud of Gateway Church because, as a family, we’ve already “tithed” the first part of this year. With joy in my heart, I watched as you, the church body, began 2013 with 21 days of prayer and fasting. God moved as we gathered for an inspiring and engaging FIRST Conference.

As we journeyed through the Love Expressed devotional and sermon series, we learned to live lives of heartfelt worship.

You’ve truly taken Matthew 16:25 to heart: “For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for ME will find it.”

Because we’ve given our lives to Him, we have so much to gain. He will protect and provide for us as we move on to the greater adventures He has in store for us. Like Paul, I simply urge you to “run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:1–2).

In this issue, you can read about the exciting race set before us. You’ll learn more about Gateway’s new Grand Prairie Campus and discover what’s coming for the NFW Campus and The King’s University at Gateway. We’re also spotlighting two important Gateway ministries (PrimeTime and Generous Life) and including an excerpt from my dear friend Pastor Tommy Briggs’ new book, I Wish I’d Known.

He’s one of the wisest men I know, and I can’t imagine anyone better to teach us about words of encouragement.

Thank you for putting God first in all you do. It’s truly honoring to serve such an incredible congregation! We have an exciting journey ahead of us.

Thank you for putting God first in all you do.

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) Emanuel Puscas // project manager Micah Conger // photographer Cory Hale // gatewaylifemag.com

2 Gateway life March · April 13

“”

Feedback

What do you have to say?

“I’m reading the latest issue as we drive to Houston this morning. I love the quote from Apostolic Elder Jimmy Evans. I even posted it on my Facebook page.”

–Chastity Ann White

“Love that!!!”

“Exactly the words I needed today!”

–Jordan Spring

–Kimberly Brandt

“Amen! We must only agree with what God says about us. Praise Jesus!”

–Mark Williams

“Back in Houston sitting in a local restaurant reading Gateway Life.

Thank you @GatewayPeople for printing these!”

–@andreschavez (via Twitter)

“I first heard [“I Hear the Lord Passing By”] in 2010 at the Gateway Worship Conference. The overwhelming presence of God I felt changed my life forever. Thank you, Tim, for writing such a moving and powerful song!”

“I really look forward to each publication.”

–Eric Henson

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

–Deborah Thompson

Say What?!

• The Gathering [thuh gather-ing]: This weekly Monday night service for singles and single parent families includes a meal, a time of corporate worship, classes and children’s ministry.

Defining Gateway Church Lingo • InfinitiYouth [in-fin-it-tee youth]: Gateway’s ministry for 7th–12th grade students from single parent families. InfinitiYouth meets every Monday during the Gathering for a time of worship, teaching, small groups, games and fellowship.

• Mix56 [miks fif-tee-siks]: Gateway’s ministry for preteens in 5th and 6th grade. Services are held on Saturday nights and Sunday mornings at the Southlake, NRH and Frisco Campuses.

• Passages [pas-ij-ez]: The Gateway Church bookstore.

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21 Days of Prayer

21 Days of Prayer

Amped

PrimeTime – DayTime

21 Days of Prayer

Amped

Amped

First Conference

First Conference

First Conference

PrimeTime – DayTime

PrimeTime – DayTime

First Conference

First Conference

First Conference

Tell Me Something Good “Setting up and tearing down every week, I am beginning to be able to relate to Israel as they wandered through the wilderness. They followed God and set up meeting places wherever He stopped, and packed up shop and moved whenever He moved. Well for the time being, God has settled over Fossil Ridge High School, so that is where we are setting up the “Tent of Meeting” in North Fort Worth. God has proven once again that He does not dwell in houses built by men. Wherever His people gather, that is where God wants to be. And North Fort Worth is no exception. God is showing up at Fossil Ridge, and His presence is just as sweet, just as powerful and just as personal at Fossil Ridge High School as it is at the dedicated church campuses. We can’t wait until the building is done and we can move into our “house,” but until then, God is still meeting with us, building a community of excited believers and making Himself at home in the midst of His people at Fossil Ridge High School.”

–Zach Neese Worship Pastor, NFW Campus

“While working with the children at NFW a couple of weeks ago, I felt

prompted to ask for prayer requests from the kiddos. One little boy slowly raised his hand and told me that his family just recently moved here from Chicago into a house that was infested with ants—in the carpet, the walls and even in the microwave oven! He elaborated further, saying his family couldn’t afford to hire an exterminator. I immediately got goose bumps all over, because the owner of Savior Pest Control is in our Gateway Group.

After I spoke with him, he called the family and arranged to have a technician come out and fix the problem at no charge. He was so touched by the situation that he insisted the family not pay him, but “pay it forward” and be a blessing to someone else. He concluded the call by saying, “God heard and answered your little boy’s prayer.”

expe rience caused by problems with my trachea put me in the hospital.

Pastor Adana, Rebecca Kopplin and Kristi Beers came to see me. I could not believe they were there. I thought to myself, “I just met these ladies a few weeks ago, and they’re at my bedside praying for me and cheering me on!” It was so wonderful to know they cared enough to actually take the time to visit me in the hospital. As the days and weeks went on, I received multiple visits, flowers, cards, emails, texts and care packages from the Gateway ladies. The outpouring of love and support was amazing. Before I was discharged, they arranged meals to be delivered to my home for the following month. My family and I have never received so much care and kindness before. I truly believe my recovery was so fast and remarkable due to the love and support we received. Being involved in Pink has forever changed my life! Thank you to Gateway Church and all the Pink ladies!”

–Rachel Forghani

–Trent Hotman

“My journey with Gateway Pink started only five months ago when I received an email inviting me to join a Pink Group at Gateway Frisco on Wednesday mornings. I joined a group and shared my current health issues with the ladies.

Shortly after our last meeting of the summer, a near-death

Want To Tell Us Something Good?

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

gatewaypeople.com 5

Outreach ↓ Ministry Partners → ASELSI Ministries

Guatemal a

Chichicastenango Founded by John and Sharon Harvey, ASELSI Ministries reaches many indigenous Mayan people in Chichicastenango and the surrounding towns in the department of Quiché, Guatemala. ASELsI primarily works through its Bible Institute main campus and extension campuses, leadership training, medical clinic and short-term mission trips.

→ His Appointed Time Ministries

218

children educated

Gateway Church supports many ministries in Guatemala, both financially and by sending ministry teams.

In 2013, Gateway will continue to reach the country of Guatemala through supporting our ministry partners and through short-term ministry trips. Many students and families will give up their spring break to serve with His Appointed Time Ministries and ASELSI, Unity (Gateway Married Life) and Pink (Gateway Women) will return to Antigua, and a congregational medical ministry trip will reach the people of both Antigua and Chichicastenango. Take a look at the ways we’ve been active in the country over the past year and read about the ministry partners who enable us to spread the gospel.

6 Gateway life March · April 13

Chimaltenango His Appointed Time seeks to minister to and disciple the people of Guatemala. They pursue this vision in three main ways. Through Gerizim Christian School, they educate approximately 218 children (PreK–6th grade). In the Restoration Ministry Center, they tend to the spiritual, physical and mental needs of hurting people. They also clean and purify water, benefitting the community surrounding the school.

→ La Reunión Hotel

1%

of income donated to local outreach Antigua Certainly a unique ministry partner, La Reunión donates 1% of its income to local outreach. They regularly allow Gateway Global ministries to host retreats for Guatemalan pastors, leaders and missionaries. They also aid us in taking food baskets to the impoverished people living in the nearby community of El Porvenir.

↓ 2012 Trips → Men’s Brigade Trip

Chichicastenango In November, a group of 12 men from the Gateway Brigade built a road and a bathroom for ASELSI and conducted three home visits. Team co-leader James Standon said, “Everyone there is so receptive to hearing God’s Word. God’s kingdom is marching forth in other parts of the world.”

→ Men’s Leadership Trip Antigua Right after Thanksgiving, a team of young leaders and Gateway pastors traveled to Antigua, hosted a retreat for 20 local pastors and delivered Christmas baskets to area homes.

→ Gateway Men Father/Son Trip

Chimaltenango In the mountains of Chimaltenango, Gateway fathers and sons painted a village school and visited homes in the area to pray with people.

gifts given

Chichicastenango For the last six years, Gateway has participated in ASELSI’s Annual Christmas Party. This past December, Gateway team members helped give away over 1,798 children’s gifts and food bags and shared the gospel with over 800 families.

Visit global.gatewaypeople.com or scan the QR code for a video of this incredible story.

Antigua For the past two years, Unity has taken a group of married couples to Antigua where they delivered food and supplies to impoverished families, fed and ministered to children at local schools, and entertained underprivileged and special needs children at the Antigua tourist police compound.

→ ASELSI Construction Projects Chichicastenango Since 2004, many of our Gateway members, including our MOR and AMPED students, have helped finish construction projects on various ASELSI buildings, including two outdoor pavilions, a storage building and a hospitality home.

→ Pink

→ ASELSI Christmas Party

1,798+

→ Unity (Gateway Married Life)

Antigua For the past two years, Pink has taken a team of 20 women to Antigua for WILD (Women in Leadership Development) alongside 20 female Guatemalan church leaders. They provide a place for these leaders to take a well-deserved rest, and they minister to them through prayer and prophetic ministry. Pink Coordinator Chelsea Seaton says, “The Guatemalan women leave refreshed and encouraged. We can’t wait to take another team this May and see the Lord work in each life.”

To be a part of any of these trips or for more information on Gateway Global trips, visit globaltrips.gatewaypeople.com or email globaltrips@gatewaypeople.com.

→ V! Trip

VBS

Chimaltenango & Panabajal Alongside His Appointed Time Ministries, Gateway volunteers prepared and delivered food and gift baskets to children and women in the area. The team hosted a Vacation Bible School at a dumpsite—snacks and puppets included—and worshipped alongside smiling children. The team also ministered to women through prayer and worship at His Appointed Time and the men built custom stoves for two families.

→ Pastor Robert Guatemala City Pastor Robert regularly speaks at local churches in Guatemala’s capital, including Mega Frater, Familia de Dios and Casa de Dios (pastored by Cash Luna, who spoke last year at Gateway’s Bless! weekend).

In 2012, the church El Shaddai, after teaching The Blessed Life in weekend services and small groups, finished the series with The Blessed Life seminar taught by Pastor Robert.

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The Power of

B y

T o m m y

B r i ggs

Encouragement rowing up, I didn’t receive a lot of encouragement from my father about who I was or about the giftings that were within me. It wasn’t that he didn’t love me or didn’t want to see me succeed; he just didn’t encourage me in who I was. However, I believe the Lord placed some very specific people in my life to encourage me and whose words helped shape me into the man I am today.

One of those people was my college guidance professor, Dr. Sigurd Bryan.

One day, I went in to see him because I was making Cs. All through high school, I was on the honor roll and made all As and Bs. I had been in the Honor Society in high school, and I’d done well in the Air Force, but I couldn’t figure out why my grades were so low now that I was in college.

So one day, I went in to talk with Dr. Bryan about how I could improve my grades. “I just don’t understand why I’m having such a hard time in college,” I lamented.

“Tommy, how many hours are you working a week?” he asked.

“Forty to fifty,” I replied.

“And you’re going to college full-time?”

“Yes, sir, I’m taking sixteen hours.”

“Tommy, your Cs are As, son. Don’t ever worry again about having a C in any of the courses you take while you’re working 50 hours a week. The guys who are making straight As have parents paying their way, and they don’t have to work a single hour of the week. They have more time to study than you do.”

God’s encouragement came through Dr. Bryan’s voice. He used Dr. Bryan to speak into my life and encourage me.

There’s a great biblical example of how God can use another person to encourage others to bring about His purposes. In 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Paul says: “Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.

For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.”

Paul said he sent Timothy so the people wouldn’t be discouraged by Paul’s afflictions. He sent Timothy to encourage them. Paul acknowledged that Christians are called for that very purpose. We are going to suffer tribulation, and when it comes, we need to be ready.

8 Gateway life March · April 13

That’s exactly what God did in my life. When people like Dr. Bryan encouraged me, I didn’t know God was sending these people in my life for this reason. I thought it was just circumstance. I know now God sends people into our lives at key points to encourage us; especially when we’re down and don’t know what to do or where to turn. I now know to listen for the voice of God coming through the people around me and through the relationships I have.

“God sends people into our lives at key points to encourage us; especially when we’re down and don’t know what to do or where to turn.”

The Bible says encouragement is the root of prophecy. As believers, we’re to exhort one another with words of prophecy; with words of encouragement. If you have the gift of encouragement or feel impressed to talk to someone about the difference they’ve made in your life, don’t wait. Connect with that person today.

More than likely, you’re being used

by God to bring encouragement in that person’s life. GL Pastor Tommy Briggs is an Associate Pastor of Freedom Ministry at Gateway. This article is adapted from Tommy’s book I Wish I’d Known: Stories of Life and Faith. Pick up your copy at Passages today!

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Every Number Has a Name Every year, Pastor Robert updates

the church on how the Lord has worked in and through Gateway over

the past year and shares Gateway’s

God-given vision for the next year.

Take a moment to learn about where

we’ve been and where we’re going as a church family!

Looking Back

19,600 Professions of Faith in Christ

3,534

2012 Total Baptisms

1,671

Easter

Southlake Campus

The Game Changer Series

NRH Campus

It’s a Life … and it’s Wonderful

Frisco Campus

182 1,144 545

17,094 2011

1,307 317 47

Weekly Average Attendance

All Other Weekends

1,663 10 Gateway life March · April 13

For the full annual report, visit annualreport.gatewaypeople.com.

Looking Forward

NFW Campus Averaging around 1,375 in attendance every Sunday, the North Fort Worth Campus has added a third service at 9:00 am to accommodate the growing congregation.

This spring, the campus will move into its finished, permanent building on the corner of Beach and Basswood.

The church offices will be located in the same building.

Pastor Marcus Brecheen says, “Every week, we meet people who have never been to church at all. These sweet people are finding that Jesus loves them and is calling them to a better and more fruitful life.” ←

myGateway An exciting new component of gatewaypeople.com, myGateway, will provide a personalized, always available, social and online learning environment for Gateway members. Users will engage in a personalized experience that encourages community through a social platform and live pastoral engagement. In addition, myGateway will provide online materials to facilitate spiritual growth. ↑

The King’s University at Gateway During their second semester at The King’s University at Gateway (TKUG), many students are completing courses in Worship Studies led by Pastors Thomas Miller, Zach Neese and Rita Springer. In addition to receiving transfer students from various local universities and new students from multiple states, TKUG plans to double enrollment for the next fall semester. To facilitate this growth, TKUG will move into the fully renovated former Southlake Campus on FM 1709 toward the end of this summer. (In addition to TKUG, the building will serve as a location for some of Gateway’s midweek services and as a venue for banquets, weddings and funerals.) →

Grand Prairie Campus Shady Grove Church in Grand Prairie will join the Gateway family as a new campus. Like all current Gateway campuses, it will have a dedicated pastor, associate pastor and ministry team. Over time, this new campus will gradually add essential Gateway ministries. Transition begins this summer. For more information, read our in-depth interview with Pastor Tom Lane on page 14. ↓

Additional Parking Last year, the NRH Campus added new parking to accommodate continued growth.

In 2013, new parking will also be added at Southlake and Frisco. If you’ve had a difficult time parking at either campus recently, know that help is on the way! ↑

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Generous Life How Gateway’s Stewardship Ministry Can Help You

b y J o sh C o ad

B

iblical stewardship is one of Gateway’s foundational values. Generous Life, Gateway’s Stewardship Ministry, exists to help people prioritize their finances according to godly principles. Gunnar Johnson, Executive Pastor of Generous Life, explains: “The Bible says, ‘Seek first the kingdom of God’ (Matthew 6:33). If we seek first the kingdom with our money, it will change our financial systems and priorities.” Whether you’re rich, poor or somewhere in the middle, here are some of the tools Generous Life provides to help you seek the kingdom with your resources.

12 Gateway life March · April 13

Route 7 This class is geared towards people who are doing fine financially, but want to be more kingdom-focused with their money. Over seven weeks, Pastor Gunnar teaches what the Bible says about money and how to practically apply it. After each teaching, attendees break up into small groups before ending each class with ten minutes of prayer.

Route 7 will begin this spring for Seven (adults 18–29 years) and in the fall for all adults.

Financial Hope Workshop Pastor Gunnar calls this class the “practical nuts and bolts on how to get your finances in order.” This class includes biblical teaching, but the majority of the class is dedicated to the nitty-gritty mechanics of walking in daily financial wisdom. Filled with teaching, instruction from professional counselors and meaningful time in accountability groups, this workshop will give you the tools you need to help you achieve full financial restoration.

The next Financial Hope Workshops will run this spring and summer.

Kingdom Advisors The third Tuesday of every month, Generous Life hosts the Kingdom Advisors Luncheon. This event for financial professionals, especially financial planners, provides biblical training and teaching for them to apply in their field. Currently, Generous Life is working on a certification program for many of these financial professionals. “In our ministry,” Pastor Gunnar says, “we can counsel

people up to a certain point. Then we need to direct them to a professional.”

When this program is complete, Gateway members will be able to look online and seek out Gateway-certified financial professionals who understand and share Gateway’s values on stewardship.

Estate Planning Workshop “Everybody needs an estate plan,” says Pastor Gunnar, “If you have children and financial assets you want to transfer to the next generation, come to this workshop.” While in most situations, estate-planning events are designed as fundraisers, Pastor Gunnar stresses, “This is not a fundraiser. We’ve seen families go through the loss of a loved one without an estate plan in order. It ends up being a huge burden on the family. We created this workshop to be a blessing to families and help them in advance of those situations.” If you want to plan for your family’s future, sign up and attend this workshop in May, August or November.

Online Resources Generous Life offers numerous online resources. The ministry’s FAQ page (located at stewardship. gatewaypeople.com) answers many pertinent financial questions, such as “How much should I tithe?” and “How do I start a budget?” The Job Center ( jobcenter.gatewaypeople. com) lists job openings posted by Gateway members, while the Gateway Business Directory (directory. gatewaypeople.com) lists businesses for your every need—all run by Gateway members.

“If we seek first the kingdom with our money, it will change our financial systems and priorities.”

continued on page 19

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A Conversation with Tom Lane on Gateway’s New Grand Prairie Campus

By Josh Coad

ateway Church is “all about people.” Because there are always more people in the Metroplex who need to hear about Jesus, Gateway has consistently expanded to additional campuses over the past few years, starting with North Richland Hills, then Frisco and North Forth Worth. This year, Shady Grove Church in Grand Prairie will join our family as a new Gateway campus. We sat down with Pastor Tom Lane to learn the heart of Gateway’s leadership for this new addition to the Gateway family. › Why does Gateway Church regularly add new campuses?

This campus expansion goes back to the initial vision of Gateway Church. In 1999, Pastor Robert felt God’s call to reach the North Texas region. Our desire isn’t to build something big, but to fulfill that vision. We want to further God’s work in the lives of people in and around the Metroplex. › How will Shady Grove’s values and history factor into this transition? Each Gateway campus already has its own distinct feel, and we want to continue that tradition with Grand Prairie. When a couple comes together in marriage, they don’t each lose their families and histories. Rather, those things are blended into a new distinct entity. When Gateway Church “marries” Shady Grove, we will honor their sense of community and relationship, and their heart for the Jews and missions. Shady Grove’s history and unique flavor won’t go away. Rather, as Gateway’s Grand Prairie Campus, they’ll become a special part of what God’s doing through Gateway. › When will this transition take place? It will begin this summer and continue over an extended period of time as we slowly add Gateway values, ministries and service components.

› What would you like to say to current Shady Grove members who will become a part of the Gateway family? We love and respect the work God has done in you. We appreciate the heart and vision of ministry that has grown over the years in your church. As you become a part of Gateway, we want to extend that vision. Don’t be discouraged; your history won’t be lost. It will be absorbed, but it won’t be lost. The vision you’ve pursued for years will only live in a greater way as we come together. We can’t wait to welcome you into our family. › What about current Gateway members who live near Shady Grove in Grand Prairie? A lot of Gateway families live in that area but can’t always make it to church every week because of the long drive. If that’s you, we’re excited for you to have a more convenient place to attend church and get involved. You’ll now be able to more effectively bring your friends and family to church. › Are there any concrete plans for other future cam puses?

We’re often asked, “Where’s our next campus going to be?” We’re always looking for ways to serve groups of Gateway members who have to drive a long way to reach a campus; however, we’ve always added campuses as a result of God’s direction, not our own strategizing. We’re always primarily focused on following the Lord and His plans for Gateway’s future. GL

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Calendar

M arch

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Sun

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wed

thurs

fri

sat

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thurs

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mar

1–2

mar

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Id Seminar

Water Baptism

Frisco Campus Find your individual strengths and spiritual gifts to discover God’s destiny for your life.

3:00 pm Southlake Campus

mar

2

Race2Rescue 5K Color Run Meadowmere Park in Grapevine Benefits Gateway’s ministry partner, Rescue Her, in their fight against human trafficking. Register at RescueHer.org. mar

Southlake Campus This year’s men’s conference will include a tailgate party, a soapbox derby competition, worship and speakers Robert Morris, Judah Smith and John Gray. mar

NRH & Frisco Campuses During all services

11–12

Teen KAIROS 9:00 am–4:30 pm NRH Campus

Baby Dedications 2:30 pm Southlake Campus

22

The Well – Night of Worship

3

Baby Dedications 2:30 pm Southlake Campus

7:00–9:00 pm Southlake Campus A monthly night of worship and prayer. mar

25 & 26

Passover Seder Celebration 6:30 pm NRH Campus

16 Gateway life March · April 13

apr

11–12

KAIROS (Spanish Interpretation Available) 9:00 am–5:00 pm Southlake Campus This event is designed to create a safe atmosphere for you to experience God’s physical, emotional, mental and spiritual healing power through an intimate encounter with the Holy Spirit.

13-14

Churchwide Water Baptisms Immediately Following Each Service All Campuses

15–17

Pink Impact (Conference A) Southlake Campus apr

apr

apr mar

7

7–8

Men’s Summit

2–3

Baby Dedications

mar

mar

apr

18–20

Pink Impact (Conference B) Southlake & Frisco Campuses apr

26

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

26–27

Parenting SetApart Seminar Southlake Campus apr

26–27

ID Seminar Southlake Campus

apr

14

Pink Impact – Pre-Conference Night of Worship 7:00 pm Southlake Campus

Recurring Events

Weekend Services

Kids/Students

Unity (Marriage)

AMPED (Jr. High, 7th–8th Grade)

• Marriage Challenge

Sundays // 5:30 pm SLK Wednesdays // 6:30 pm

NRH

SLK

InfinitiYouth (7th–12th Grade, Kids of Single Parents) Mondays // 6:00 pm SLK MOR (Sr. High, 9th–12th Grade) Wednesdays // 6:00 pm NRH Wednesdays // 6:30 pm SLK Wednesdays // 7:30 pm FRS

Saturdays 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm

Gateway Equip Mondays // 7:00 pm

Wednesdays // 7:00 pm Saturdays // 4:00 pm

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

FRS SLK

SLK

Sundays // 9:00 am & 10:45 am

SLK

Habitation Sun, Mar 17 & Apr 21 // 6:00 pm

Fri, Mar 1 & Apr 5 // 7:30 pm

Singles SLK • Worship Service Mondays // 7:00 pm • Divorce Care Mondays // 7:00 pm • Breakout Classes Mondays // 7:40 pm

SLK

Sat, Mar 2 // 9:00–11:30 am

PrimeTime (50+) • DayTime Bible Study Tuesdays // 10:00 am

SLK SLK

FRS

NFW Campus Fossil Ridge High School 4101 Thompson Rd Fort Worth, TX 76244 Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Spiritual Growth Foundations of Freedom Classes Sundays // 10:45 am

FRS

Healing Ministry Mondays // 7:00–9:00 pm

NRH

Prayer

Frisco Campus FRS 7125 Legacy Drive Frisco, TX 75034 Saturdays 4:00 & 5:45 pm Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

• Corporate Prayer for Our Nation Sundays // 10:40 am SLK

SLK

• High Noon Prayer Wednesdays // 12:00 pm • Men’s Prayer Meetings

SLK

Men’s Gatherings Wednesdays // 7:00 am

NRH

Sun, Mar 17 // 10:45 am–1:15 pm Sat, Apr 6 // 9:00–11:30 am

Saturdays 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Catch the Vision (Membership Class)

Single Parent Families SLK • Meal Mondays // 6:00 pm • Worship Service Mondays // 7:00 pm • Breakout Classes Mondays // 7:40 pm • ReNew (Single Moms) Mondays // 7:00 pm • Legacy (Single Dads) Mondays // 7:00 pm

NRH Campus NRH 7501 Davis Blvd North Richland Hills, TX 76182

Jewish Messianic Service

Adults

Seven (18–29) Tuesdays // 7:00 pm

700 Blessed Way Southlake, TX 76092

MIN

FRS

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

Sundays // 9:30 am

Southlake Campus SLK

Thursdays // 5:30 am NRH

Fridays // 6:00 am

SLK

SLK

Ministry Center MIN 540 S Nolen Southlake, Texas 76092

FRS

gatewaypeople.com 17

In the Prime of Life Josh Coad hen you think of an average church ministry

for people over 50, what do you picture?

Time-filling activities for inactive grandparents? Boring church for senior citizens? At Gateway, PrimeTime is changing that perception. According to Pastor Steve Thompson, this group of engaged church members in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond, “are not has-beens. They’re in the prime of life, and they’re spiritually deep and mature.”

This dedicated group proves Pastor Steve’s words true by serving in every area of the church. Every weekend, hundreds of PrimeTime members volunteer at all campuses. Throughout the year, they also lead various Gateway Groups and participate in outreaches like the one at Christmas for Single Parent families.

PrimeTime clearly doesn’t represent an isolated generation within the church. In addition to planned events and vision retreats that include adults over the age of 40, PrimeTime members take an active role in mentoring and encouraging younger generations. Once a year, PrimeTime men team up with Seven for a mentoring retreat and PrimeTime women participate in a Bridging Generations trip accompanied by their daughters or younger women they are mentoring.

Recently, Jessica and Eric Spawn, both in their 30s, joined PrimeTime for one of their vision retreats. Afterwards, Jessica sent in a testimony about the event, saying, “We both came away with more clarity about life. This was truly a holy weekend in our life and marriage. Thank you so much for letting us come out and mingle with the 40s and 50s!”

This intergenerational community is possible because PrimeTime members first develop strong community together. Pastor Steve says that one of PrimeTime’s priorities is to “create opportunities for fellowship.” That mandate starts with weekly Bible studies. Nearly every Tuesday morning, approximately 70–80 PrimeTime members gather to encourage one another spiritually.

Longtime Bible study member Linda Ficken says, “This group is so precious to me! I truly love the people in that class. We’re like family. After studying the Word and fellowship, many of us often go out for lunch. We always tell newcomers that everyone is welcome—we want them to be part of the family!”

This feeling of community and family extends further to PrimeTime’s regularly planned fun events, including the annual Valentine’s Day Dance. PrimeTime also sponsors fun day outings to places like the state fair and local museums, and even some out-of-town trips, including an annual cruise.

To newer members of PrimeTime, Ministry Coordinator Carol Rose encourages, “There’s a lot of great things in store for you.” Linda Ficken has certainly found that to be true: “PrimeTime gives me a place to meet old friends and make new ones. It gives me a place to have an active social life when others my age might just be sitting at home in front of the television. It gives me a place to study God’s Word with friends and share our prayers. I used to pray and ask the Lord for friends.

Since becoming involved in PrimeTime, the Lord has truly answered my prayer!” GL

“We always tell newcomers that everyone is welcome—we want them to be part of the family!”

18 Gateway life March · April 13

Song Story “Bloom” RouTe 7 This class is geared towards people who are doing fine financially, but want to be more kingdom-focused with their money. Over seven weeks, Pastor Gunnar teaches what the Bible says about money and how to practically apply it. After each teaching, attendees break up into small groups before ending each class with ten minutes of prayer.

Route 7 will begin this spring for Seven (adults 18–29 years) and in the fall for all adults.

FInancIal HoPe WoRksHoP

Generous Life how Gateway’s Stewardship Ministry Can help you

By JoSH CoAD

B

iblical stewardship is one of Gateway’s foundational values. Generous Life, Gateway’s Stewardship Ministry, exists to help people prioritize their finances according to godly principles. Gunnar Johnson, Executive Pastor of Generous Life, explains: “The Bible says, ‘Seek first the kingdom of God’ (Matthew 6:33). If we seek first the kingdom with our money, it will change our financial systems and priorities.” Whether you’re rich, poor or somewhere in the middle, here are some of the tools Generous Life provides to help you seek the kingdom with your resources.

Pastor Gunnar calls this class the “practical nuts and bolts on how to get your finances in order.” This class includes biblical teaching, but the majority of the class is dedicated to the nitty-gritty mechanics of walking in daily financial wisdom. Filled with teaching, instruction from professional counselors and meaningful time in accountability groups, this workshop will give you the tools you need to help you achieve full financial restoration.

The next Financial Hope Workshops will run this spring and summer.

kInGdoM advIsoRs The third Tuesday of every month, Generous Life hosts the Kingdom Advisors Luncheon. This event for financial professionals, especially financial planners, provides biblical training and teaching for them to apply in their field. Currently, Generous Life is working on a certification program for many of these financial professionals. “In our ministry,” Pastor Gunnar says, “we can counsel

12 GaTeway Life march · aPril 13

By David & Alena Moore

people up to a certain point. Then we need to direct them to a professional.”

When this program is complete, Gateway members will be able to look online and seek out Gateway-certified financial professionals who understand and share Gateway’s values on stewardship.

esTaTe PlannInG WoRksHoP “Everybody needs an estate plan,” says Pastor Gunnar, “If you have children and financial assets you want to transfer to the next generation, come to this workshop.” While in most situations, estate-planning events are designed as fundraisers, Pastor Gunnar stresses, “This is not a fundraiser. We’ve seen families go through the loss of a loved one without an estate plan in order. It ends up being a huge burden on the family. We created this workshop to be a blessing to families and help them in advance of those situations.” If you want to plan for your family’s future, sign up and attend this workshop in May, August or November.

onlIne ResouRces Generous Life offers numerous online resources. The ministry’s FAQ page (located at stewardship. gatewaypeople.com) answers many pertinent financial questions, such as “How much should I tithe?” and “How do I start a budget?” The Job Center ( jobcenter.gatewaypeople. com) lists job openings posted by Gateway members, while the Gateway Business Directory (directory. gatewaypeople.com) lists businesses for your every need—all run by Gateway members.

“If we seek first the kingdom with our money, it will change our financial systems and priorities.”

continued on page 19

GateWayPeoPle.com

13

Generous Life continued from page 13

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Soon, Generous Life will launch a brand new website that will serve as a massive database of stewardship-related resources, including online topical classes like “How to Buy a Car” and “How to Buy a Home.”

These are just a few of the resources Generous Life has to offer. Generous Life also runs a phenomenal car donation program (we reported on it in the July/August 2012 Gateway Life), provides a few specialized Equip Classes (the next one you can sign up for is “Weakening Poverty,” which starts in March) and offers personal financial coaching to individuals who have completed the Financial Hope Workshop. According to Pastor Gunnar, these tools ultimately exist to “help people fully live the life God’s given them by stewarding their finances in a way that maximizes their impact for the kingdom.” If you want to take the next step in biblical stewardship, Generous Life is here to help you today! GL For more information, email stewardship@gatewaypeople.com or visit stewardship.gatewaypeople.com.

david (songwriter) In January 2011, during our annual vision retreat, I felt a renewed call to write songs from scripture. I always base my songs on scripture, but during that vision retreat, I decided to be more purposeful about literally setting scripture to music.

One of the first songs to come out of this season was “Bloom.” The driving force behind the song and a huge portion of the lyrics comes from Psalm 1. The first three verses say: Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked … his delight is in the law of the Lord … He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither.

I really wanted to capture the point of this Psalm, which is when we pursue God wholeheartedly, He causes our lives to open up and bloom. To do that, I used more imagery than I normally do. I wrote about wind to create a sense of anticipation, rain to signify the presence of the Lord and trees to signify us. Like a tree planted by the water, we go through seasons of growth and the Lord watches over and blesses all of it.

A

alena (song leader) When David wrote this song, I immediately took to it. I couldn’t stop singing it around the house!

The third verse begins with “This life I give to you is broken / My sorry soul hears what you’ve spoken.”

The Lord’s response to that brokenness is “Be new. I’m here for you.” All we have to do is give our lives to Him. He’s not looking for us to come with our act together.

He brings life in our brokenness.

Later on, the lyrics refer to the Lord as “my Truth.”

I love that. The Bible says He’s the Way, the Truth and the Life. We often call Him the Way and the Life, but we don’t usually refer to Him as truth personified. When we sing the Truth (God Himself) over our lives, His love and purposes for us come alive in our hearts.

Pastor David and Alena Moore lead worship in various Gateway services and lead Gateway Generate. You can hear “Bloom” on the Songs from Gateway Devotions: Love Expressed album.

gatewaypeople.com 19

Profile

QA Pastor

Sylvia Torrez

Sylvia Torrez is Associate Pastor of Membership Services at Gateway NFW. She and her husband, Edward, live in Watauga.

What’s your favorite Bible story?

I love them all! Two stories have been seared in my heart since childhood: Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace and Jonah’s memorable time in the belly of the whale. As an adult, the story of Esther has greatly impacted me. I admire her wisdom, courage and strength.

Your staff profile says you’re a certified cake decorator.

What is your greatest cake creation ever?

Wedding cakes are the best and most challenging. I have baked, decorated and delivered two of them. The process isn’t as difficult as it is nerve-racking.

You want the cake to be perfect and undamaged for the special occasion!

20 Gateway life March · April 13

How long have you been married and how did you meet your husband?

Edward and I met in youth group at the church where I was saved. He is my high school sweetheart, and we’ve been married for over 20 years.

What’s unique about the NFW Campus?

The number of volunteers. They’re amazing and work so hard! The challenges we’ve encountered and overcome have only brought us closer together as a team.

I am thankful to God for each one of them. We could not successfully meet in a high school without them!

How do you see God moving in the NFW congregation?

There is such an excitement in the air.

You can feel it and see it in our worship services. People are hungry for God’s

presence. They are also very excited to reach the community for God’s kingdom.

What’s your most embarrassing moment?

Once, while visiting a church, a man sitting behind me fell asleep and was snoring so loudly that I could barely hear the preacher. He repeatedly woke himself up! Every time, I would turn around and give him “the look.” After the service was over, I realized the guy who was snoring wasn’t the guy sitting behind me, but someone still asleep on

Being bilingual, do you think in one language in particular?

Usually, I think in English, but it changes with my environment. It’s like a switch.

If I’m with Spanish speakers, I’ll flip the switch and think, speak and even read in Spanish. Funny enough, if the Spanish switch is on, I’ll read English words as Spanish words!

Describe your journey at Gateway in ten words or less.

It’s been an amazing, healing and challenging time of growth and stretching.

How do you see God moving in the NFW congregation?

There is such an excitement in the air.

You can feel it and see it in our worship services. People are hungry for God’s presence. They are also very excited to reach the community for God’s kingdom. the bench two rows back! The innocent man behind me had already left, so I couldn’t apologize.

What’s your go-to order at Starbucks?

A smoothie. I love the smell of coffee but don’t drink it.

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

Service Times

Southlake Campus

Friday 5:45 & 7:30 pm // Saturday 4:00, 5:45 & 7:30 pm // Sunday 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm N RH C a m p u s

Friday 5:45 & 7:30 pm // Saturday 4:00, 5:45 & 7:30 pm // Sunday 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm NFW Campus

Saturday 4:00 & 5:45 pm // Sunday 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm Frisco Campus

Friday 5:45 pm // Saturday 4:00 & 5:45 pm // Sunday 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

gatewaylifemag.com

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