Gateway Life | March 2015

MARCH 2015

EVERY NUMBER HAS A NAME

Our annual report shows the impact Gateway Church had in 2014. p. 12

THE TITHE FACTOR

BUMPER STICKER PROVERB

HEART SCHOOL

Does returning 10% affect your income? One couple finds out. p. 10

How to keep your stuff from owning you. p. 16

Why kids at Gateway are so passionate about worship. p. 18

CONTENTS MARCH 2015

COMMENTS

2 WELCOME 3 PULSE OUTREACH

8 MEN AT WORK Proclaiming the Gospel with a hammer and nails.

F E AT U R E S

10 12

THE TITHE FACTOR

Does returning 10% affect your income?

One couple finds out.

EVERY NUMBER HAS A NAME

Our annual report shows the impact Gateway Church had in 2014.

15

SONG STORY

16

BUMPER STICKER PROVERB

18

HEART SCHOOL Why kids at Gateway are so passionate about worship.

Zach Neese's “Christ the Rock”

How to keep your stuff from owning you.

20 26 28

ANNOUNCEMENTS ACTIVITIES PROFILE – JOHN CRUSE

DOWNLOAD THE GATEWAY LIFE APP AND READ GATEWAY LIFE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. A behind the scenes look at the creation of this month's Gateway Life cover.

Now available for iPhone, Android phones, iPad, and Kindle Fire.

For more information, visit gatewaylifemag.com.

WELCOME

WELCOME to GATEWAY LIFE YEARS AGO WHEN I OWNED A construction

company, the Lord spoke to me very clearly about my finances. My wife and I lived modestly—we had a couple of junker cars and a small amount of debt—but we got by. The Lord said, “Next year, I want you to give 15 percent of your income to Me, and I’ll raise your income by 50 percent. The next

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

issue of Gateway Life, you’ll get to see how your generosity through tithes and offerings to Gateway has impacted the kingdom of God. You’ll also read about how we will continue to reach people with our new Heart for the Kingdom initiatives. When it comes down to it, all of these efforts are about reaching individuals and seeing their lives change for eternity.

One of my favorite ways Gateway reaches people is through Men’s Brigade. On page 8, you’ll find a story about this group of hardworking men who go out into our communities one Saturday a month to help single moms, widows, and struggling families in need of home repairs.

That’s just one of the many great stories you’ll find in this issue of Gateway Life.

I’m so amazed at the generosity of the people at Gateway and our heart for reaching people for the kingdom of God. I hope that these stories will inspire you, and I want to encourage you to pray about the role you can play in our new Heart for the Kingdom initiatives.

year, I want you to give 20 percent to Me, and I’ll double your income.” He told me to continue increasing my giving by 5 percent each year until I was giving 35 percent of my income, and each year He would double my income. I almost couldn’t believe it!

The last 15 years, before I sold my company, we gave at least 50% of our income to the Lord.

The reason I tell you this story is because during that period of time I became passionate about generosity and giving to the kingdom of God. In our annual report (page 12) in this

Steve Dulin Elder and Associate Senior Pastor

editorial Stacy Burnett, Managing Editor Daniel Hopkins, Senior Writer/Editor Shea Tellefsen, Staff Writer/Editor Katie Smith, Staff Writer Georgette Shuler, Copy Editor

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

photography Cory Hale

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

2 MARCH 2015

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

/@GATEWAYPEOPLE

“I GREW UP IN SRI LANKA

as a very strong, faithful Muslim. I wore a traditional hijab, prayed faithfully five times a day, and read the Koran several times each year.

I was very strong in my faith, but my faith was based mostly in fear. I was scared of God and lived without peace. I came to the United States with my exhusband eight years ago and around the time we split up early last year, I

I NEVER THOUGHT I’D BE A CHRISTIAN, BUT THERE’S NOTHING IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD. felt lost. My neighbor Ashley invited me to go to church, but I resisted because I felt very strongly against Christianity. But she didn’t give up on me and invited me every week.

Eventually I went with her to the

NRH Campus, and as I was walking in I was afraid they would hate me because I was a Muslim. There was a gentleman by the door and he smiled and said, ‘Welcome to Gateway.’ That immediately changed me and I felt peaceful for the first time. It was like this comforting feeling carrying me the entire time. They were playing music and I began to cry, and Pastor Robert talked about how he got saved. It was the strongest message I had ever heard. Weeks later, I came back to church and spoke to Pastor Phillip Hunter. It was after speaking with him that I decided to become a Christian, and the next week I was baptized. When I came up out of the water I heard the Lord say, ‘You are forgiven.’ I am still growing and learning, but the transformation is huge. I never thought I’d be a Christian, but there’s nothing impossible for God. His love can truly change lives. I’m living proof!”

Nona Zareena Samidon | via Email “TWO YEARS AGO, MY WIFE

inherited a small piece of land in south Texas and a fractional stake of an oil well in the Panhandle of Texas. Earlier this year, we decided it was a good time for my wife to resign from her well-paying, stable, corporate position and start her own business. We projected it would take two years to grow the business to the point of replacing her income, and

we would depend on the oil royalties from the well to replace her income in the meantime. Four months after my wife resigned, oil prices dropped 50 percent. The oil company also decided not to renew one of the leases, so we lost that income too. The royalty income we planned to live off of for

“Without notice, a deposit was made into our bank account for triple the amount of what we tithed on the property sale!” two years suddenly became uncertain.

This fall, the property in south Texas sold. Without hesitation, we tithed in faith knowing that the amount of the tithe would have been the equivalent of four to six months of income that we were losing on the well. But God had a plan. The oil company notified us that they were going to pool our rights with the rights of another well on the property next to ours. Instead of receiving income on one well, we would be sharing income on two wells.

Today, without notice, a deposit was made into our bank account for triple the amount of what we tithed on the property sale!”

Anonymous | via Email

Gateway is committed to seeing every person BELIEVING in Jesus, BELONGING to family, BECOMING a disciple, and BUILDING His kingdom.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 3

PUL SE

Generate Night of Worship

TESTIMONY FROM BLESSED LIFE GROUPS:

“One of our group members works with a guy who was an atheist. The young man was curious about our group member’s lifestyle and asked lots of questions. Eventually, he visited our group and even though his beliefs were different, he felt acceptance from our members. He has been attending the group for some time and recently informed his coworker who invited him to the group that he had accepted Christ and has seen many areas of his life improve.”

Generate Night of Worship

Isaac Garcia, Gateway Group Leader | via Email

IN RESPONSE TO THE BLESSED LIFE DEVOTIONAL:

“I DID MY FIRST TITHE TODAY! SO HUMBLED! I SET UP AN AUTO DEBIT FOR THE FIRST 10 PERCENT OF EVERY PAYCHECK, AND I AM OVERJOYED!” Nicole Bagley | via Facebook

Generate Night of Worship

Generate Night of Worship

XO Conference

IN RESPONSE TO THE GRAND PRAIRIE CAMPUS’S FIRST SATURDAY EVENING SERVICE:

“SO GLAD FOR SATURDAY SERVICE! I ENJOYED IT LAST WEEK FOR THE FIRST TIME!” XO Conference

Margo Mills | via Facebook

IN RESPONSE TO THE GRAND PRAIRIE CAMPUS’S FIRST SATURDAY EVENING SERVICE:

“IT WAS A GREAT FIRST SATURDAY SERVICE!” Jessica Wall | via Facebook

XO Conference

Grand Prairie's New Saturday Night Service

Grand Prairie's New Saturday Night Service

Grand Prairie's New Saturday Night Service

PUL SE

“MICHAEL FABE AND HIS WIFE live in an

apartment complex in the North Fort Worth area and asked to use the business area for their Gateway Group. It’s not available for private use, so the apartment staff offered their movie theater room instead. It holds around 18 people so he and his wife have gone door to door handing out books and inviting people join them. So far, they have five families joining them and they are so excited!

They have asked us to pray for them as they believe that God will do great things in their community!”

Rachel Kevil, Gateway Groups Coordinator via Email

“Six years ago today I became a Christian while in a service at Gateway. Tonight I’m feeling excited about this next year and getting to pursue a deeper relationship with Jesus while walking out #theblessedlife.”

Douglas Pennington | via Facebook

thanks to the encouragement of Pastor Robert and Gateway, our church (Victory Life Church) committed to give 10 percent of our missions “LAST YEAR,

6 MARCH 2015

budget (1% of our general budget) to Israel. It’s because our heart is for giving to give, not giving to get. We want to give to the things that touch the heart of God.” James Sunnock of Victory Life Church via Email “AFTER PASTOR ROBERT’S MESSAGE ‘What

Test?’ my husband told me that God was speaking to him while Pastor Robert was giving the sermon. God said that instead of giving 10 percent we should begin giving 15 percent of our income. He asked me, ‘What do you think?’ I had been praying that God would show us how to be better givers instead of just tithers. All I could think was, thank You, God for changing our hearts in this area! It was only a few years ago that my husband had a hard time with even giving 10 percent.

“I HAD BEEN PRAYING THAT GOD WOULD SHOW US HOW TO BE BETTER GIVERS INSTEAD OF JUST TITHERS.” We decided we would begin giving 15 percent with our next paychecks. Five days later, I was offered a new position at work. God’s handiwork was shown again when they talked to me about my new salary. They offered me a 15 percent increase (the exact amount we were asked to give). I’m also now eligible to receive a 15 percent bonus on my salary and was asked to work from home instead of going into the office. That is such a blessing to our family as well. Most importantly, I love that God’s handprints are all over this. We feel so blessed!”

Elizabeth Tallman | via Web

“I have come to love Gateway and its ministry—it feels like my second home church, and that comes from watching services online. Recently, I preached Pastor Robert’s sermon ‘Satan’s Greatest Desire’ during the youth service at my church, and it was greatly received! When I first heard this specific message, it spoke to me in a very personal way, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to preach it.”

Austin Sheets age 18 | via Email

“Yesterday, an older lady at the grocery store was having a panic attack. I asked her if I could pray for her, and we had great prayer time. I probably won’t ever see her again but God knew what she needed!”

Cindy Bishop | via Facebook

A card for the Bless A Life website was given to me at the window. This surprise blessing really helped me have a wonderful day. I’ve spent the last hour on the Gateway website reading bible verses and being inspired. One small act of kindness can send waves that reach further than you imagine.”

HIGH FIVE

Carrie | via blessalife.gatewaypeople.com IN RESPONSE TO THE BLESSED LIFE DEVOTIONAL:

“I DO NOT GENERALLY ENJOY READING; HOWEVER, I’VE READ THE BLESSED LIFE DEVOTIONAL DAILY AND STARTED THE BOOK. I’VE BEEN IN TEARS IN JUST THE FIRST FEW PAGES!” Mary Spann | via Facebook

“TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL IS AWESOME! IT MAKES ME WANT TO GIVE MORE, AND WE SHOULD! LET’S GIVE SOMETHING AWAY TODAY!” Johnmark Abrahams | via Facebook

BLESS A LIFE TESTIMONIES:

“I don’t attend Gateway Church or know anyone who does. I was the lucky recipient of a blessing from one of your members in line at a Chick-fil-A restaurant.

Whoever you are, thank you! It was my birthday, and I was shocked to have my family’s meal paid for by the person in the car in front of me.

“I just had my 16th birthday and received money and gift cards. I tithed on all of it, but God led me to give more. My neighbors just had a baby and they’re always really busy. They’ve expressed to me before that they would like to have me babysit for them while they go out on a date or just have some alone time while grocery shopping. God led me to give them a $50 Visa gift card to go out to eat and to offer to babysit for free. It turned out that the husband’s birthday was the day before, and so now they can go on a birthday date together. They have yet to set up a time for me to babysit, but now I have an outlet to share the Gospel with them.”

Kate Westmoreland via blessalife.gatewaypeople.com

“I work helping people and one of the people that I helped gave me the Bless A Life card and some money. I know there are many other ways to bless people but cash is always nice. Thank you for doing what you’re doing. I’m sure many people are very much in need of your blessings!”

Anonymous via blessalife.gatewaypeople.com

JOSH COAD ,

associate pastor worship

(gateway generate)

MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT? It’s hard to pick just one. My friend, Paul Trimble (who works in Amazing Kids), texted me while I was napping. I woke up in a mental haze and picked up my phone to respond. In my grogginess, I somehow managed to accidentally hit the camera button, take a picture of myself shirtless in bed, and send it to him. Thankfully, he has a great sense of humor, so we both thought it was hilarious!

He hasn’t shared that picture with anybody, at least as far as I know....

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? In chronological order: a cowboy, an astronaut, a Jedi, Batman, a writer, and a worship leader. I’m now a worship pastor, I write as a hobby, and I’m trying to stay in shape in case the whole Batman thing ever works out.

IF YOU COULD GET COFFEE WITH ANYONE LIVING OR DEAD, WHO WOULD IT BE? C. S. Lewis, but Rachael (my wife) would definitely want to come. If it’s possible in this imaginary scenario for me to have coffee with a dead person, surely it’s possible for me to bring Rachael along, right?

WHEN HAVE YOU BEEN MOST SATISFIED IN YOUR LIFE? In a massive crowd of people all singing a great song.

WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH OUT LOUD? Anything after midnight. Also, puns.

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

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 7

OUTREACH

MEN AT WORK PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL WITH A HAMMER AND NAILS

by DANIEL HOPKINS

OW MANY GATEWAY MEN DOES IT TAKE TO CHANGE A LIGHTBULB?

The answer is simple: just one. But if you ask him to change it, chances are a whole brigade will show up.

On a recent, frigid Saturday morning in January, about 30 men from Gateway’s Men’s Brigade huddled together

8 MARCH 2015

in the NRH Campus lobby. Once a month, they meet up to collect their assignments and then go out into Dallas/ Fort Worth communities to serve single moms, widows, and struggling families. On this particular morning, there was a toilet replacement for a single mom, several home

repairs for a widow, a tree to cut down for another widow, Another big addition is the Pink Brigade, a group of and two wheelchair ramps to build and install through a women who accompany the men and offer spiritual and partnership with Texas Ramps. “It’s actually a pretty slow emotional support. Ninety-five percent of people helped by weekend for us,” says Mark Cegieslski, an IBM software the brigades are either single moms or widows, and often salesman who heads up the Men’s Brigade. “It will pick up times their needs require more than hammers and nails.

“We’re able to assist single moms and widows with anything in the spring, and that’s when we’ll need more help.” from laundry, cleaning, decorating, packing for a move, or CAMPUS BRIGADES simply praying,” says Pastor Laurinda Dunn, who oversees This well-organized group is in a season of transition.

Pink Brigade. It’s about more than just fixing an immediInstead of operating as one big group, each campus will ate problem—it’s about making a connection. But don’t be soon have their own Men’s Brigade. Geographically, this will fooled—the ladies aren’t afraid to swing a hammer either! broaden the Brigade’s reach and create more opportunities to bless people. However, more help is needed to build up each campus brigade.

EVERYTHING YOU EVER NEEDED TO KNOW ABOUT MEN'S BRIGADE LEARN SOMETHING NEW

There are more than a few seasoned construction contractors in Men’s Brigade. However, many are not. “Some guys come here and they’ve never even dug a hole,” says Mike Hinkle Morrison, who leads the brigade along with Mark.

“But after a few times on the brigade, they’ve learned enough to do projects in their own homes.”

CAMARADERIE

Few male bonding exercises are as powerful as building something together, except, of course, tearing down something together with a sledgehammer.

IT’S BIBLICALLY MANDATED

James 1:27 says, “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble.” This verse is one of the driving forces behind Men’s Brigade.

When it happens on a Men’s Brigade jobsite, it’s understood.

section leaders, “but I feel more blessed when I see the looks on their faces.”

SMALL COMMITMENT, BIG IMPACT

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A MAN

With few exceptions, all Men’s Brigade jobs end at noon. It’s designed this way so men can go home and still have plenty of time to spend with their families. And if you can’t make it out on one Saturday, no big deal—just come and serve when you can.

Pink Brigade is looking for women to accompany the men and connect with the single moms and widows at each job. There is a great need for emotional and spiritual support at many of the job sites, and there’s nobody better equipped to provide it than Gateway Women.

BE A ROLE MODEL

Because most of the women helped If you’re interested in joining Men’s

by Men’s Brigade are single mothers, Brigade or Pink Brigade, you don’t there are often kids who don’t spend need any specific skill or knowledge. much time with their fathers. When the You just need to have a willing heart Brigade shows up, it’s a great opportu- and some clothes you don’t mind getnity to pour into the lives of kids who ting dirty. GL need a strong male influence.

CHANGE LIVES

Every job, no matter how big or small, makes a huge impact. At the end, the GRUNTING IS ALLOWED men always present the women they’re Something about operating power tools helping with flowers and pray for her. necessitates a good, strong grunt. Just “We go out and bless these ladies,” says look at Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor. James Leck, one of the Men’s Brigade

For more information on how to get involved with Men’s Brigade, email brigade@gatewaypeople.com, and for Pink Brigade, email pinkgroups@gatewaypeople.com.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 9

THE TITHE FACTOR

DOES RETURNING 10% AFFECT YOUR INCOME? ONE COUPLE FINDS OUT.

by Daniel Hopkins

FOR YEARS, JASON AND GINA ROOT DREADED LOOKING AT

their finances. But when they prepared to give their testimony at a recent Financial Peace University class at Gateway, they stared the numbers right in the face with delight. “I pulled all of our tax records,” says Gina, “and I was amused by what I found.”

She compared the amount of each year’s tithe to the following year’s income and noticed an uncanny connection. Every year they tithed, their income

10 MARCH 2015

increased the following year. When they didn’t tithe, their income dropped.

Jason and Gina’s story starts where most people’s financial stories start: with an “Oh no!” moment. In 2001, they bought a new home in a new neighborhood with a lot of potential. “Shortly after we bought it, the builder who built the neighborhood went bankrupt,” says Gina. “Within six months of living in the house, we owed $65,000 more than it was worth.”

After a few years of drowning in debt, the Roots Now, the Roots—a family of seven—are living debt decided to give full control of their lives to God—includ- free and committed to helping others get financially free. ing their finances. That’s when things began to change. “We give away Dave Ramsey’s Total Money Makeover Just seven years later, Jason and Gina were completely and Pastor Robert’s The Blessed Life together all the debt free. However, God was preparing to do a financial time,” says Jason. “We literally buy the books by the miracle in their lives through an international adoption. case!” adds Gina with a laugh.

Both Gina and Jason separately heard God tell them to That’s not all they do with their finances. God adopt from Ethiopia, a calling neither had considered continues to use Jason and Gina to bless His kingdom before. Their only reservation was that the adoption around the world. Whether they’re helping with the of two siblings would cost around $50,000. On faith, cost of building a new school in Africa or giving to strugthey started the adoption process, believing that God gling families in their community, the Roots say they’re blessed to be a blessing. “The Lord just continues to would somehow provide the money. “We signed the papers on a Tuesday and on Wednesday, Jason got a open doors for us to give,” says Gina. “And He always phone call from an employer he had interviewed with provides the necessary funds to do it.” GL eight months before,” says Gina. “They offered him $45,000 per year more than he was currently making!”

JASON AND GINA ROOT TRACKED THEIR FINANCES BACK TO 2000. THIS CHART SHOWS HOW MUCH THEIR INCOME HAS BEEN DIRECTLY IMPACTED BY THEIR YEARLY TITHES AND GIVING. 110 100 90

TITHE (% of income returned to God) SALARY (% change from previous year)

80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 -10 -20 -30 -40 -50 2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 11

2014

EVERY NUMBER HAS A NAME

As Gateway Church enters another new year, it’s important to take time to reflect on the last year. God did such incredible things in 2014! As we pursue God’s vision and build His kingdom in 2015, let’s also look back and praise Him for all He’s done.

SALVATIONS

3,528

Professions of Faith in Christ

ROOM 12 SERIES

1,060

265

TRUTHICAL

ALL OTHER WEEKENDS

819 12 MARCH 2015

EASTER WEEKEND

1,384

ATTENDANCE

14.43% Increase from 2013 to 2014

23,831

2013

27,271

2014

WEEKLY AVERAGE ATTENDANCE PER CAMPUS SOUTHLAKE

13,876 FRISCO

2,674 GRAND PRAIRIE

1,559

NORTH FORT WORTH

5,679 NRH

3,483 LIVE STREAMING

7,942

BAPTISMS

1,772

Total Baptisms

SOUTHLAKE

890

372

FRISCO

NRH

168

NORTH FORT WORTH

276

GRAND PRAIRIE

66

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 13

HEART FOR THE KINGDOM GRAND PRAIRIE CAMPUS COMPLETION This past year was a big one for the Grand Prairie Campus!

Not only did we create the blueprint and master plan that would drive the improvements and updates, we’ve started the construction, and it’s moving along smoothly.

With the newly added elements, such as a bookstore, café, classrooms, expanded kids area, and renovated Auditorium, the Grand Prairie Campus has the capacity to become one of the largest campuses. We hope to finish the renovations and celebrate their completion in the fall of 2015.

SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS PARKING Attendance is still increasing at the Southlake Campus— especially on big weekends like Easter and Christmas when many people attend as first-time guests. We want everyone to feel like there is a spot for him or her. We have drawn up the plans and are expecting the permit approval any day now. We’ll begin in the spring of 2015 to create 434 new parking spaces.

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FRISCO CAMPUS LOBBY EXPANSION AND UPDATES If you’ve ever seen Frisco’s Lobby after a service, you know it’s packed to the gills.

But we have a plan! We already have the preliminary drawings to expand the Lobby and plans to offer capabilities similar to the other campuses.

NRH CAMPUS CHANGES The NRH Campus is constantly bristling with activity, and they need more space for events and ministry classes.

We have plans drafted for a full remodel, including space for more Equip classrooms, a renovated and expanded kids area, and increased capabilities similar to the other campuses.

TWO NEW CAMPUS PROPERTY PURCHASES The addition of new extension campuses has been on the hearts of Gateway’s elders for some time now.

We have identified two targeted areas in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, specifically surrounding the North Fort Worth and Frisco Campuses. The new campuses would help relieve the overflow issues at both the North Fort Worth and Frisco Campuses and help further the Lord’s work in those areas. We are prayerfully dependent on God’s leading as we identify new locations and campuses.

Please pray for these initiatives to become realities and for God’s hand to rest on the planning and execution of each one.

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

by Daniel Hopkins

Pastor Zach Neese is sitting on top of a mountain. No, that’s not a metaphor.

One day on a family trip to Colorado last summer, he packed his guitar and a plastic folding chair and began his ascent. With sea level more than a mile below, the Colorado landscape stretched beyond his view and it got him thinking. “For years I’ve studied and enjoyed American music, but there’s not really a genre of American worship,” says Zach. “Every branch of American music stems from country and folk music and old spirituals. I wanted to write a song that calls back to those traditions.” So on the mountaintop high above the rest of America, he began writing “Christ the Rock.”

gospel choir adds even more power to a bridge that says, “Heaven and earth and hell will see You’re stronger!”

Only two days after writing the song, Zach played it in an unlikely place—Maddie Mendenhall’s hospital room. The teenage girl had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and was miraculously healed. But in the dark days after being diagnosed, the Mendenhalls were looking for hope.

Zach threw his guitar on his back— just like he did when he climbed the mountain—and went to the hospital where he led Maddie’s family and friends in worship. “I played ‘Christ the Rock’ and we could feel the Holy Spirit in the room,” he says.

“Sometimes there’s something about a song that lends a little bit of faith and hope to a moment of struggle.”

“Christ the Rock” is on The Blessed Life: Songs from Gateway Devotions. Available at Passages and iTunes.

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SONG STORY

ZACH NEESE’S “CHRIST THE ROCK”

Zach began to draw on common themes in those old songs and realized that they translate seamlessly to today’s life, which is wrought with peaks and valleys, and struggles and victories. “I wrote ‘Christ the Rock’ because I want to give the congregation an opportunity to sing from where they are. I believe God responds to humility, and in some ways humility is rooted in desperation and dependence,” says Zach. “That’s what those old songs are all about.”

Lyrically, the song follows in that tradition but offers something that isn’t commonly found in those old songs: hope in Christ. The verses illustrate it well: “When life is like a victor’s crown / And grief like millstones pulls me down / I fix my eyes on higher ground / I’m Yours.”

Musically, the song doesn’t veer far from its roots. Anna Byrd sings with soul as a pedal steel guitar glides across the melody like butter on a slice of country bread. To top it off, a

“THE MAN WITH THE MOST TOYS WINS.” Did I read that right? Those were the words written in fluorescent orange on the bumper sticker ahead of me. The funny thing is, it was plastered on a 1993 Ford Bronco that looked like it had recently been in an off-road demolition test. But the message wasn’t lost in the context—you win if you accumulate the most! In stark contrast, I remembered a church in Buenos Aires that espoused the value: “He owns it, and we use it.” So the people in the church who had homes saw themselves as people who made beds for God—their doors were always open to a sojourner. Others in the church who had cars looked upon themselves as chauffeurs for God, willing at any time to drive someone to a doctor’s appointment.

The clash of perspectives instantly sent my heart into self-examination. How is my attitude toward stuff? The question to be answered was, “Does stuff own me, or do I manage stuff with an eternal perspective?”

I was surprised by what surfaced in my soul. Clearly, I was being motivated by a fear of poverty defined as “the fear of not having,” and lived out with the attitude, “I can’t give or I won’t have.”

16 MARCH 2015

If I put myself in the shoes of the little boy who offered Jesus his five loaves and two fish, the multitude may not have been fed. Fear would say to me, “Keep your lunch so you will have enough to satisfy your hunger.” When I considered the churches in Macedonia who insisted that Paul take their offering to the church in Jerusalem, I was amazed at their passionate faith. Paul references this in 2 Corinthians 8:3 (NLT), where he states, “they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will.”

I had to deeply consider my position and weigh it in light of Proverbs 11:24: “Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything.” It was evident God was calling me to a new level of trust and confidence in His promises and to a place of generosity that would build new character in my life.

The great missionary to the Auca Indians, Jim Elliot, wrote in his senior yearbook, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Though eloquently written, it wasn’t the first time this truth was revealed. It was simply a reflection of the contrasting stories of the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16–22) and the widow who gave her last meal to the prophet (1 Kings 17:7–24). The young man’s possessions held him captive and squelched his opportunity to enter the kingdom. Yet on the other hand, the elderly woman was willing to give out of her poverty, which in turn yielded a bountiful harvest for her and her family.

Matthew 6:19–21 (ESV) says, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Simply put, the battle between accumulating the most and stewarding what we posses is a matter of the heart.

I love what Wayne Myers, a man considered to be a missionary father to Mexico, said to a graduating class of Christ For The Nations Institute, “When you give because you cannot help it, you will be blessed because you cannot stop it.”

Now, that’s a bumper sticker I can get behind. GL Bobby Bogard is an associate senior pastor and has been on staff at Gateway since 2005.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 17

18 MARCH 2015

he roof is flying off the top of Pastor Dana and Linda Johnson’s house. At least that’s how Dana describes it when he talks about their most recent semiannual worship night. “When worship starts, they just blow the roof off the place!” he says. Nearly a hundred people— mostly teenagers—gathered in their home to hang out, eat, and sing worship songs together. The voices quickly overpowered the volume of the acoustic guitars, and the whole experience overwhelmed Dana and Linda. “It’s like nothing I’ve ever heard anywhere else,” he says. “We don’t get to do it very often, so it’s a special opportunity.”

It’s not just special for them—the kids love it too. Some of them even ask their parents if they can host a worship night instead of having a birthday party.

These worship nights are the culmination of what Dana and Linda, heads of GatewayNext (Gateway’s children’s worship program), have started with Heart School, a worship training program they’ve run over the last three years to develop Gateway’s future generation of worship leaders from a very early age. Heart School meets roughly once a month at the Southlake and NRH Campuses (North Fort Worth students join the NRH students). Some of the kids who attend (ages nine to fifteen) lead on the platform at Amazing Kids services, and some lead from the audience, giving younger kids an example of what passionate worship looks like.

But Heart School focuses less on teaching kids how to lead worship and more on teaching them how to be worshippers. “Worship is the result of something,” says Dana. “It’s the result of falling in love with God. And falling in love with God is the result of realizing His goodness.”

Much of the time at Heart School is spent giving kids an opportunity to grasp God’s goodness and know His

presence. And the kids—even the young ones—get it. “It’s what they experience in their heart and soul, and there’s no substitute for the presence of God,” says Dana. “We want kids to know what it feels like when God is close.”

For years, Dana and Linda have seen countless kids experience the presence of God in worship. Together they’ve been children’s pastors since 1985, and in 2002, Dana started his own worship ministry, which included traveling full time and doing consulting, training, and events—many of which were geared toward kids. During that time, Gateway became their home church until they moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2004. They con-

tinued traveling back to the metroplex to put on worship events. Many times, the worship groups they assembled featured kids from Gateway, including Worship Pastor Josh Coad and worship leaders Anna Byrd and Robyn Alba.

In 2009, Dana’s friend Ken Jackson, executive pastor of Amazing Kids, invited him to join Gateway’s staff as a children’s worship pastor. And now, some of the kids that started leading worship under Dana and Linda’s leadership are stepping into greater worship roles at Gateway and beyond. In fact, drummer Josh Alltop, who

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 19

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY FRISCO

EQUIP

FREEDOM

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

EQUIP FIRST MONDAYS

GUEST EXPERIENCE ORIENTATION

Join us for Equip First Mondays to experience God in a deeper way! Each month will have a different focus and follow-up materials as we take you on a discipleship journey through 2015. Contact: Mark O’Bryan, 682.223.6137, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

If you have recently joined or would like to join our team as a greeter, usher, Welcome Center host, parking lot attendant, or Gateway Safety Unit member, come hear the vision behind serving and receive additional training!

Contact: Stefanie Urquidez, 817.328.2074, volunteerfrs@gatewaypeople.com

First Monday of the Month, Mar 2 7:00 pm | Auditorium

EQUIP TOPICAL CLASSES

Saturdays 5:45 pm & Sundays 9:00 am | Classroom B Join us for a variety of Equip classes now being offered during weekend services, such as our Foundations of Freedom and other topical classes. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Mark O’Bryan, 682.223.6137, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP

Saturday, Mar 21 | 4:00 pm | Classroom B

FOUNDATIONS OF FREEDOM

Saturdays, Feb 7–Mar 7 | 5:45 pm | Classroom B Our Foundations of Freedom classes help you become all you were created to be through a powerful ministry process.

Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Mark O’Bryan, 682.223.6137, freedomfrs@gatewaypeople.com

PINK IMPACT 2015

Apr 23–25 | Auditorium This year, we are hosting Pink Impact live at our very own Frisco Campus, and we need your help! To sign up as a volunteer, visit pinkimpact.com/volunteer.

Contact: Hannah Nelson, 817.552.7346, pinkfrs@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY GROUPS GATEWAY GROUPS

WOMEN

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at Frisco, join a Gateway Group or consider leading one! Visit groups.gatewaypeople.com.

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

HEALING MINISTRY FOUNDATIONS OF STEWARDSHIP

Saturdays, Mar 14–28 | 5:45 pm | Classroom B Sundays, Mar 15–29 | 9:00 am | Classroom B Join us as we lay a biblical foundation for God’s plan and purpose for stewardship and the management of His creation.

Contact: Mark O’Bryan, 682.223.6137, generouslifefrs@gatewaypeople.com

KINGDOM ADVISORS LUNCHEON

Thursday, Mar 19 | 11:45 am | Lobby

If you’re a financial advisor, CPA, attorney, banker, or real estate or mortgage professional, join us for our monthly luncheon. Register at generouslife.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Yoana Sampayo, 817.552.7428, generouslife@gatewaypeople.com

ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP

Saturday, Apr 18 | 9:00 am | Auditorium Learn how to create a will and build an estate plan through a biblical perspective.

Register at generouslife.gatewaypeople.com.

Children’s ministry is not available.

Contact: Yoana Sampayo, 817.552.7428, generouslife@gatewaypeople.com

20 MARCH 2015

PINK IMPACT

HEALING MINISTRY

First Monday of the Month, Mar 2 | 5:00–6:45 pm | Lobby The Frisco Campus now has healing rooms open before the monthly Monday night Equip classes! The process takes about 30 minutes and includes an introduction video, communion, individual prayer, and a follow-up class. Contact: Mark O’Bryan, 682.223.6137, healingfrs@gatewaypeople.com

Thursday–Saturday, Apr 23–25

SLK FRS

Gateway’s annual women’s conference is approaching, and there is a seat just for you! All events and speakers will be live at each campus. To register or volunteer, visit pinkimpact.com. Contact: Brushfire Customer Service Team, 800.569.7108, info@pinkimpact.com

MEN MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, Mar 21 | 7:30 am | Auditorium We hope to see you at our next breakfast where men in our community come together to connect and hear from the Lord. Contact: Hannah Nelson, 817.552.7346, menfrs@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

OUTREACH BLESS A LIFE SERVE DAY

SUNDAYS »» Foundations of Freedom | 9:00 am

Are you looking for a way to serve the Frisco community? This is a great opportunity for Gateway Groups, families, and individuals to serve together through various projects and partnerships. There is somewhere for everyone to serve! Contact: Allie Wilke, 817.328.2088, outreachfrs@gatewaypeople.com

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

Saturday, Mar 7 | 8:00 am–1:00 pm

SATURDAYS »» Foundations of Freedom | 5:45 pm Classroom B

Visit frs.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY GRAND PRAIRIE

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP

MARRIAGE

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

MARRIAGE REVOLUTION CLASS

Sundays, Mar 1–Apr 19 | 10:45 am | Prayer Center

KINGDOM ADVISORS LUNCHEON

Tuesday, Mar 17 | 11:45 am | Serve! Lounge

SLK

If you’re a financial advisor, CPA, attorney, banker, or real estate or mortgage professional, join us for our monthly luncheon. Register at generouslife.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Yoana Sampayo, 817.552.7428, generouslife@gatewaypeople.com

HEALING MINISTRY HEALING MINISTRY

Mondays | 7:00–8:30 pm | Prayer Center Whether you’re sick, hurting, or suffering, our desire is to pray for your physical and emotional well-being. We minister to people of all ages and all conditions.

Contact: Aaron Cheuvront, 972.314.9077, healinggrp@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS BABY DEDICATION SERVICES

March 21–22 | During Weekend Services | Auditorium If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids. gatewaypeople.com by Monday, March 16.

Space is limited! Contact: Nina Paradise, 972.314.9001, babiesgrp@gatewaypeople.com

In this class, we’ll explore and define a biblical model of marriage in new and fresh ways. You will strengthen your marital bond, extend grace toward each other, build intimacy, and be empowered as a couple.

Contact: Amanda Cheatham, 972.314.9084, equipgrp@gatewaypeople.com

MEMBERSHIP CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Sunday, Apr 19 | 12:30 pm | Prayer Center

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

Contact: Amanda Cheatham, 972.314.9084, ctvgrp@gatewaypeople.com

MYGATEWAY GRAND PRAIRIE CAMPUS ON MYGATEWAY

Discover exclusive teaching videos and content that can only be found on the app! Visit my.gatewaypeople.com to download the app today. Contact: Niles Holsinger, 972.314.9000, mygatewaygrp@gatewaypeople.com

OUTREACH

Come be a part of what God is doing at Gateway Students Grand Prairie! As we grow, we need volunteers to help serve, disciple, and mentor the next generation. Contact: James Gadberry, 972.314.9078, studentsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

GUEST EXPERIENCE

Saturdays | 5:00 pm | Weekend Services As we expand to a new service on the weekend, we need more volunteers to help prepare hearts for worship. You can volunteer as an usher, greeter, parking lot attendant, and more! Contact: Rachel Sandefur, 972.314.9088, gxpgrp@gatewaypeople.com

GUEST EXPERIENCE ORIENTATION

Sunday, Apr 26 | 9:00 am | V! Lounge

If you’d like to join a Guest Experience team for weekend services, come to orientation to find out what it takes to serve with us!

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

BLESS! LOCAL OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY

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

THE KING’S UNIVERSITY AMAZING KIDS PAID POSITIONS

We’re looking for team members to help us shape the next generation for the future God has planned for them! We have paid positions at all campuses, especially as we prepare for the grand opening of our new facility. Contact: Anne Hardin, 817.552.7475, kidsjobs@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENTS

Wednesdays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

WEEKLY EVENTS MONDAYS »» Healing Ministry | 7:00–8:30 pm Prayer Center TUESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00 am | Prayer Center

THE KING’S UNIVERSITY (TKU) INFO TABLE April 11–12 | Weekend Services | Lobby

Learn about our accredited undergraduate and graduate degree programs and how TKU offers students the unique combination of exceptional classroom instruction with practical ministry experience at Gateway. Contact: Angela Tranel, 817.552.7381, angela.tranel@tku.edu

Visit grp.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

»» Seven (Young Adults, 18–30) 7:00 pm | Auditorium WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium »» Men’s Bible Study | 7:00 pm Prayer Center Lounge

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 21

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY NORTH FORT WORTH

EQUIP EQUIP SPRING SESSION 3

Thursdays, Mar 12–26 | 7:00 pm It’s time for another session of Equip! We have some great classes and teachers lined up, and we’d love for you to join us as we go deeper in our relationship with God. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Jeannie Ware, 817.552.5801, equipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

FREEDOM FOUNDATIONS OF FREEDOM

Saturdays, Feb 28–May 9 | 4:00 pm | Compass B Join us for the next set of Foundations of Freedom classes and learn how to live freely.

Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com.

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

GATEWAY GROUPS JOIN OR LEAD A GROUP!

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at North Fort Worth, join a Gateway Group or consider leading one! Visit groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Shannon Tolliver, 817.552.7469, groupsnfw@gatewaypeople.com

HEALING MINISTRY HEALING MINISTRY

Sundays Before Every Habitation, Mar 15 4:00–6:00 pm | Compass A & B We now have healing rooms open before the monthly Habitation nights! The process takes about 30 minutes and includes an introduction video, communion, individual prayer, and a follow-up class.

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

KIDS BABY DEDICATION SERVICES

Saturday, Mar 14 | 5:30 pm | Auditorium Sunday, Mar 15 | 12:15 pm | Auditorium If you would like to dedicate your child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Lara Bledsoe, 817.552.7351, babiesnfw@gatewaypeople.com

AMAZING KIDS JEWEL STORE

Feb 28–Mar 1 | After Weekend Services | Compass A Bring your jewels and have a blast shopping at our very first Jewel Store of 2015!

Contact: Jenny Morgan, 817.552.7317, kidsnfw@gatewaypeople.com

22 MARCH 2015

MEMBERSHIP

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

SERVE!

First Saturday of Every Month, Mar 7 4:00–5:30 pm | Compass A

Second Saturday of Every Month, Mar 14 4:00–5:30 pm | Compass A

Our Catch the Vision class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history as well as our vision for the future. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, ctvnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Looking for a place to serve at the North Fort Worth Campus? Every month, you can receive information and training on ways to serve as a greeter, an usher, a parking attendant, a tech arts volunteer, a group leader, and more! Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, volunteernfw@gatewaypeople.com

GUEST CENTRAL AND FRESH START BOOTH

If it’s your first time to Gateway or you’ve recently prayed to receive Jesus, stop by Guest Central or our Fresh Start booth! We have friendly people who can answer your questions or help you determine the next step in your spiritual growth.

WOMEN PINK IMPACT 2015

Apr 30–May 2 | Auditorium This year, we are hosting Pink Impact live at our very own North Fort Worth Campus, and we need your help! To sign up as a volunteer, visit pinkimpact.com/volunteer.

Contact: Shannon Tolliver, 817.552.7469, info@pinkimpact.com

NEW BELIEVERS FRESH START

Third Saturday of Every Month, Mar 21 4:00–5:30 pm | Compass A Join other believers in all stages of life to receive support and encouragement as you nurture and grow your relationship with Jesus Christ. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freshstartnfw@gatewaypeople.com

RELATIONAL CARE

TITUS 2 (T2)

Wednesdays, Mar 18–May 27 | 10:00 am–12:00 pm

In this free class, we help women learn how to hear the voice of God and follow His voice in everyday life. To get started, join one of our T2 groups at groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Children’s ministry is available.

Contact: Shannon Tolliver, 817.552.7469, pinknfw@gatewaypeople.com

GRIEFSHARE CLASS

Tuesdays Through May 12 | 7:00–8:30 pm | Compass A If you’re experiencing heartache from the death of a loved one or friend, you don’t have to go through it alone. This class is dedicated to helping people through the grieving process. Cost: $25 for materials.

Register at care.gatewaypeople.com.

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

WEEKLY EVENTS

RELATIONAL CARE

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

MONDAYS »» Single Parent Life | 7:00 pm | Auditorium TUESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00 am | Auditorium »» Seven (Young Adults, 18–30) 7:00 pm | Auditorium WEDNESDAYS »» Afternoon Prayer | Beginning March 11 12:00 pm | Auditorium

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES DIVORCE CARE CLASS

Mondays, Feb 16–May 18 | 7:00 pm | Compass B If you’re experiencing the pain of separation or divorce, you don’t have to go through it alone. Learn how to deal with the pain of your past and look forward to rebuilding your life. Cost: $25 for materials. Register at spf.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christian Lee, 817.552.7545, spf@gatewaypeople.com

»» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium SATURDAYS »» Morning Prayer | 8:00 am | Parking Lot SUNDAYS »» Preservice Prayer | 8:00 am | Compass A

Visit nfw.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY NRH

ADULTS 50+

FREEDOM

FIFTY-PLUS LIFE

BARABBAS FREEDOM MINISTRY

Sundays | 7:00 pm | Chat Room

Are you in the prime of your life and looking to connect with others? NRH has a fantastic group of adults 50+ who have events, go on trips, and hold study groups! Contact: Kate Panza, 682.223.6144, primetimenrh@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP MARRIAGE CONTRACT VS. MARRIAGE COVENANT

Saturday, Mar 14 | 4:00 pm | Classroom A

Often, couples don’t fully understand what the Lord brings into a covenant of marriage. It’s time to unleash the power of your marriage covenant.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Ana Rodriquez, 817.552.7619, equipnrh@gatewaypeople.com

STUCK IN A RUT

Sunday, Mar 15 | 9:00 am | Classroom A Do you feel like you’re going nowhere?

Discover why you’re stuck and what you can do to move toward your destiny.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Ana Rodriquez, 817.552.7619, equipnrh@gatewaypeople.com

BLESSINGS OR CURSES

Sunday, Mar 29 | 9:00 am | Classroom A Can we speak freely or does every word matter? Learn how to harness the power of the tongue to produce life and how to take authority over tough circumstances.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Ana Rodriquez, 817.552.7619, equipnrh@gatewaypeople.com

FAMILY FAMILY NIGHT WITH THE RANGERS

Rangers vs. Red Sox | Friday, May 29 | 7:05 pm Mark your calendars; we are going to the ballpark! We have a limited number of discounted tickets. Cost: $25 per person, including a food voucher. Registration opens in April. Contact: Kate Panza, 682.223.6144, familynrh@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP ROUTE 7 SEMINAR

Mar 27–28 | 6:00 pm & 9:00 am | The Mix Join us for a fun seminar about financial planning, saving money, real generosity, storing treasures in heaven, and getting out of debt.

Register at generouslife.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Mashelle James, 817.552.7616, route7@gatewaypeople.com

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

FOUNDATIONS OF FREEDOM

Sundays, Mar 1–29 | 10:45 am | Classroom A To help you become all God created you to be, we offer a powerful ministry process that begins with the Foundations of Freedom classes.

Register at freedom.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Ana Rodriquez, 817.552.7619, freedomnrh@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY GROUPS JOIN OR LEAD A GROUP!

If you’re looking for a way to get connected at NRH, join a group! We’re also looking for group leaders. Register at groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Saphrin Pediford, 817.552.7326, groupsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS

SERVE THOSE WHO SERVE US

Did you know that 80% of all Americans work in a career that serves people daily? During the first quarter of 2015, let’s be intentional to serve those who serve us. Bless the life of a teacher, police officer, or parent today! Need more ideas?

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

RELATIONAL CARE RELATIONAL CARE

Relational Care offers encouragement to people who are experiencing hospitalization, critical illness, birth, adoption, or loss of a loved one. For after-hours crises, call 817.328.1000. Contact: Marie Brown, 817.552.7437, carenrh@gatewaypeople.com

BABY DEDICATION SERVICES

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com by March 2. Space is limited! Contact: Amy Sellars, 817.552.7342, babiesnrh@gatewaypeople.com.

TECHNICAL ARTS

Mar 7–8 | Before Weekend Services | Auditorium

AMAZING KIDS JEWEL STORE

March 14–15 | Before and After Weekend Services Court Room Bring your jewels and have a blast shopping!

Earn jewels all year by returning Replay Sheets, bringing your Bible to class, and participating in games. Contact: Amy Sellars, 817.552.7342, kidsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

Do you want to be a part of a team? You can get involved in audio, visual, or lighting in a variety of ways. Prior experience isn’t required, and training is provided!

Contact: Debbie Kramer, 682.223.6939, avl@gatewaypeople.com

GREETER TEAM

Looking to get involved and meet new people?

Join our greeter team! Contact: Al Pearson, 817.328.2023, gxpnrh@gatewaypeople.com

MEN ENTRY POINT

Wednesdays | 7:00–8:00 am | The Mix Enter into a brotherhood of men that will make you a better husband, father, and leader while taking your spiritual walk to the next level. We’ll have worship, prayer, and practical teaching. Free breakfast will be served. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, mennrh@gatewaypeople.com

Visit nrh.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

WEEKLY EVENTS MONDAYS »» Healing Ministry | 7:00 pm | Lobby WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium THURSDAYS »» DayTime Bible Study (Adults 70+) 10:00 am | Chat Room

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 23

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY SOUTHLAKE

DIVORCE CARE DIVORCE CARE CLASS

KIDS

SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

BABY DEDICATION SERVICE

Mondays, Mar 2–May 18 | 7:00 pm | Classroom 2C

Sunday, Mar 8 | 2:30 pm | Auditorium

If you’re experiencing the pain of separation or divorce, you don’t have to go through it alone. Learn how to deal with the pain of your past and look forward to rebuilding your life. Cost: $25 for materials. Register at spf.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christian Lee, 817.552.7545, spf@gatewaypeople.com

If you would like to dedicate your baby or child to the Lord, register at kids.gatewaypeople.com by Monday, March 2. Space is limited! Contact: Paula Williams, 817.552.7569, babies@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP

BECOMING ONE (PREMARRIAGE CLASS)

HEARTLINE & WELCOME HOME

Help us make follow-up phone calls to first-time visitors or meet with families who are new to Gateway and the DFW area to encourage them to connect at church and in their community.

Contact: Lizette Harbour, 817.552.7483, membership@gatewaypeople.com

MARRIAGE

GUEST EXPERIENCE SPRING RALLY

Thursday, Mar 26 | 6:00–8:00 pm [NRH]

Saturdays, Feb 21–Mar 28 | 5:30–7:00 pm | Classroom 2C Learn how to build a strong foundation for marriage while navigating the realities of life. Cost: $40 per couple. Register at becomingone.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Carol Johnson, 817.552.7481, becomingone@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP WINTER/SPRING SESSION 3

Mar 11–29 | Auditorium

Whether you attend a weekend class or prefer Wednesday nights, Equip offers dynamic classes in areas like worship, leadership, stewardship, and freedom.

Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Nicole Grey, 817.552.3686, equip@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP FINANCIAL FITNESS

Sunday, Mar 15 | 12:00 pm | Classroom 1C This monthly personal coaching event provides hands-on financial management help.

This is a great follow-up to any of our Generous Life classes! Children’s ministry is available.

Register at generouslife.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Yoana Sampayo, 817.552.7428, generouslife@gatewaypeople.com

KINGDOM ADVISORS LUNCHEON

Tuesday, Mar 17 | 11:45 am | Serve! Lounge If you’re a financial advisor, CPA, attorney, banker, or real estate or mortgage professional, join us for our monthly luncheon. Register at generouslife.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Yoana Sampayo, 817.552.7428, generouslife@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY GROUPS JOIN A GATEWAY GROUP!

We are launching a new semester the first week of March. Let us help you get connected! To find a group, visit groups.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Jana Mason, 817.552.3705, groups@gatewaypeople.com

24 MARCH 2015

Come enjoy food, fun, and fellowship with us to discover more about how we serve on weekends to prepare hearts for worship. Contact: Jim Mayher, 817.552.7566, gxp@gatewaypeople.com

PINK IMPACT

Apr 23–25 or Apr 30–May 2 This year, we are hosting Pink Impact live for two weekends, and we need your help!

Volunteers pay only $75 per ticket to attend the conference. To learn more and to register, visit pinkimpact.com/volunteer.

NEWLY MARRIED LIFE

Mondays, Mar 9–23 | 7:00–9:00 pm | Guest Central Join us for the launch of a fun and interactive new class designed specifically for those who just said, “I do!” Register at becomingone.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Carol Johnson, 817.552.7481, becomingone@gatewaypeople.com

MEMBERSHIP

WEEKLY EVENTS

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Mar 28 | 4:00–7:00 pm | Classroom 2D This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history and gives you an opportunity to become a member! Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Lizette Harbour, 817.552.7483, ctv@gatewaypeople.com

MONDAYS »» Family Life Night | 7:00 pm TUESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00 am | The Mix »» DayTime Bible Study (Senior Adults) 10:00 am | Classroom 2C

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES

»» Seven (Young Adults, 18–30) 7:00 pm | Auditorium

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES CAMP

June 22–25 | Horseshoe Bay Resort

WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students 7:00 pm | University Campus Auditorium

Join us for our annual Single Parent Families Camp! This is a great time to have fun with your kids and meet other families. Cost: $500 per family. Register at spf.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christian Lee, 817.552.7545, spf@gatewaypeople.com

»» Gateway Equip | 6:56 pm | Auditorium THURSDAYS »» Men’s Prayer Meeting | 5:30 am | Lobby

THE KING’S UNIVERSITY

SATURDAYS »» Gateway Equip | 4:00 pm | Classroom 2B

THE KING’S UNIVERSITY (TKU) INFO TABLE Apr 11–12 | Weekend Services | Lobby

Learn about our accredited undergraduate and graduate degree programs and how TKU offers a unique combination of exceptional classroom instruction with practical ministry experience. Contact: Angela Tranel, 817.552.7381, angela.tranel@tku.edu.

SUNDAYS »» Gateway Equip | 9:00 am & 10:45 am Classrooms 2B & 2C »» Foundations of Freedom | 9:00 am Classroom 2D »» Corporate Prayer for the Nation | 10:40 am

Visit slk.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

CHURCHWIDE FAMILY FAMILY LIFE NIGHT SPECIAL GUESTS

Mondays | 7:00 pm

SLK

Join us this month as we feature two special guests, Dr. John Townsend (March 9) and Lisa Bevere (March 30), and empower you and your family. Contact: Kelly O’Briant, 817.552.3684, familylife@gatewaypeople.com

JEWISH MINISTRY PURIM CELEBRATION AT THE MESSIANIC SERVICE

Friday, Mar 6 | 7:30 pm | Auditorium

NRH

Dress up as your favorite character from the story of Esther and stay after service for a celebration and dessert! Children’s ministry is available. Registration not required. Contact: Oli Snyder, 817.552.7452, jewish@gatewaypeople.com

PASSOVER SEDER CELEBRATION

Monday, Apr 6, or Tuesday, Apr 7 6:30 pm | Auditorium NRH

Let’s share a Passover meal and celebrate God’s deliverance of the Jewish people from their bondage in Egypt. Cost: $30 for children and adults. Space is limited, and children’s ministry is not available. Register at jewish.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Oli Snyder, 817.552.7452, jewish@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS MIX56 FUN NIGHT | SPRING FEVER

Friday, Mar 20 | 6:30–9:00 pm

NRH

All 5th and 6th graders are invited to join us for our next Fun Night. Dress up in ‘70s and ‘80s costumes and enjoy pizza, games, and live worship! Cost: $10 (free for guests). Registration not required.

Contact: Heather Martin, 817.552.7539, mix56@gatewaypeople.com

AMAZING KIDS CAMP 2015

June 8–13 | Dry Gulch, U.S.A. Kids 1st–6th Grade (7–12 Years Old)

OUTREACH WORLD RELIEF EASTER OUTREACH

Saturday, Mar 28 | 9:15 am | Fort Worth

Come show the love of Christ to people who have been uprooted from their homes and placed in a foreign environment.

Register at bless.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Audrey Wells, 817.552.3704, outreach@gatewaypeople.com

PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER SHOW AUDITIONS Mar 28–29

SLK

This year’s summer production (July 3–12) is Godspell. Register for an audition slot at performingarts.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Rachel Turner, 682.223.6918, performingarts@gatewaypeople.com

STAGEDOOR CLASSES SPRING SESSION Mar 30–May 20

SLK

We are now offering weekly classes for acting, dancing, singing, and playwriting. Space is limited. Cost: $80 for entire session. Register at performingarts.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Rachel Turner, 682.223.6918, performingarts@gatewaypeople.com

SPECIAL EVENTS PINK IMPACT

Thursday–Saturday, Apr 23–25 SLK FRS Thursday–Saturday, Apr 30–May 2 SLK NFW Gateway’s annual women’s conference is approaching, and there’s a seat just for you! All events and speakers will be live at each campus. To register or volunteer, visit pinkimpact.com. Contact: Brushfire Customer Service Team, 800.569.7108, info@pinkimpact.com

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

We want to stand with you as you publicly declare your decision to follow Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior through water baptism.

Register at baptism.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Lizette Harbour, 817.552.7483, baptism@gatewaypeople.com

HABITATION

Sunday, Mar 15 | 6:00 pm | Auditorium

SLK FRS NFW

MEN

STUDENTS

Come to our seventh annual event for fathers with daughters ages 8–18. Check-in begins at 6:30 pm. Cost: $55 for first father-daughter pair, $30 for each additional daughter. Register at men.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Fedrick Bowe, 817.552.3631, men@gatewaypeople.com

SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS SLK 700 Blessed Way · Southlake, TX 76092 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

CHURCHWIDE BAPTISM

Join us for a powerful message from James Robison. We will also have a special time of worship, ministry, and testimonies. Prayer begins at 5:15 pm. Contact: Amanda Wise, 817.552.7578, habitation@gatewaypeople.com

FATHER-DAUGHTER DINNER & DANCE

SERVICE TIMES

Apr 18–19 | Weekend Services | All Campuses

Amazing Kids Camp is coming up so register your child now! Cost: $550 if registered by March 5 and $580 after that date. Pay deposit and register at kids.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Melanie Baley, 817.552.3685, kidscamp@gatewaypeople.com

Friday, Apr 10 | 7:00 pm | Irving Convention Center

LOCATIONS &

GATEWAY STUDENTS SPRING CAMP

Mar 20–22 | Lakeview Camp & Retreat Center Students (7th–12th grade) will experience powerful worship, dynamic teaching, crazy games, and lots of fun! Register at students.gatewaypeople.com.

Contact: Joy Cromer, 817.552.7375, springcamp@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am MIN (Canceled on holiday weekends) MONDAYS »» Family Life Night | 7:00 pm

SLK

»» Healing Ministry | 7:00 pm

GRP NRH

TUESDAYS »» Seven (Young Adults, 18–30) 7:00 pm | Auditorium SLK GRP

NFW

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barely knew how to play the drums when Dana met him years ago, went on to produce the GatewayNext 2013 Dove Award–winning Children’s Music Album of the Year, Look Up. This is one of the biggest accolades ever given to any musician or group from Gateway, but for Dana and Linda, it’s eclipsed by the greater reward. “When I walk into our campuses and see these young people who tomorrow will be adults, married, with kids of their own,” says Dana, “watching them have such a personal dedication to the kingdom of God and knowing that they’ll always have something invested in them from Gateway—that’s the most rewarding thing for me.” GL For more information on GatewayNext and Heart School, visit gatewaynext.gatewaypeople.com

CORRECTIONS TO FEBRUARY’S GATEWAY LIFE: In Rita Springer’s profile, we mistakenly wrote that she adopted a son three years ago. The adoption happened ten years ago. Our apologies to Rita and her family.

We also mistakenly wrote that Pastor Thomas Miller once ran Christ For The Nations. He ran the School of Worship at Christ For The Nations.

"WHAT ARE YOU IN FOR?"

In Pulse, a testimony that should have been attributed to Kara Crane was mistakenly attributed to Jacquelyn Bushnell. Our apologies to Kara and Jacquelyn.

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 27

PROFILE

WE HAVE THREE KIDS. Our twin sons, Weston and Neiman, were born at only 25 weeks of pregnancy.

They weighed a little over one pound each. The doctors didn’t give us much hope. The night they were born, I took my wedding ring off and slipped it over their tiny hands all the way up to their shoulders. God intervened and at five and half months, they finally came home—weighing a little over five pounds each! Both boys have some mild challenges, but this has led them to a great compassion for others.

They are 26 years old now. They attend Gateway and love going to Seven and being in a Gateway Group.

When the twins were only 20 months old, my wife gave birth to a full-term baby girl, Alexa, and our joy was complete! She brought a lot of healing as we were able to experience what a healthy baby was like. Alexa loves worship and is currently pursuing a song-writing career in Nashville, Tennessee.

JOHN CRUSE

JOHN CRUSE IS THE PASTOR OF PRAYER AND INTERCESSION AND HAS BEEN ON STAFF AT GATEWAY SINCE OCTOBER 2014.

WHEN I WAS A KID, I played bass and I sang in our family’s band—The Cruse Family. We started touring when I was 12 years old, and for the first 8 years we did about 320 concerts a year. You could say we were busy. We had two buses and a semi-truck, and when we drove into town, it looked like the circus had arrived! God was gracious and allowed us to see a lot of lives changed and enjoy some national notoriety, including Dove awards and chart-topping songs.

WORSHIP AND MINISTRY ARE STILL A BIG PART OF OUR LIVES, and today my brother and sisters are pastors and worship pastors all over Texas.

I MET MY WIFE JANICE after a concert one night.

She is a member of a Grammy-winning group, The Archers. We related very well to the unique lifestyle we each lived, both of us growing up in pastors’ homes, on the road in full-time music ministry, and working with our siblings. Exactly a year and one day from the night we met, we were married!

28 MARCH 2015

MY FAMILY HAS A UNIQUE DYNAMIC, we love to spend as much time together as possible! There are 42 of us in the Cruse family, so it’s crazy but a lot of fun. The most fun part is seeing the next generation grow up with a heart for ministry.

MY LIFE HAS BEEN A GREAT JOURNEY from music ministry to helping lead international ministries and serving as the lead pastor of a local church. All this has given me a close view of the life change that happens when we pray and share with others that Jesus is the hope of the world.

PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW I’m a barefoot water skier and I love to hunt. To me, there’s nothing better than being on the water or in the woods when the sun is rising. It’s like watching the world wake up. It’s very peaceful and helps me unwind and recharge.

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

WHAT’S KEEPING YOU FROM BEING TRULY FREE? If you’ve ever wondered, Why do I keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again? Why can’t I change? Take heart—there is a way out!

With relevant scriptures, prayers, and questions for contemplation or group discussion, Pastor Robert Morris explains how you can find lasting freedom and live truly free.

PREORDER YOUR COPY TODAY AT BARNES & NOBLE OR AMAZON Available Everywhere May 12, 2015

— GATEWAY CHURCH PRESENTS —

This night features some of your favorite Christian music artists from the original 1994 London Symphony recording, including:

Larnelle Harris

Twila Paris

Steve Green

Wayne Watson

Friday, March 27 | 7:30 pm | Gateway Church Southlake Campus Purchase your tickets today at saviour.gatewaypeople.com.

Sponsored by Compassion International and 94.9 FM KLTY

Keron Jackson

DON’T SPEND

EASTER SELFIE

BY YOUR

Come Be a Part of an Authentic Community at Gateway Church

#EasterYourSelfie easter.gatewaypeople.com

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