small group catalog winter 2012

Fall Quarter 2011 B e g i n n i ng Se p t e m b e r 1 1

Northwest Church 5415 N. West Ave. Fresno, CA. 93711 559.435.2200 www.nwc.org Email us at: smallgroups@nwc.org

Notes New Quarterly Small Groups Are Forming!

A Note from Pastor Will I encourage you to join a small group this quarter which begins the week of Sunday, January 15, 2012.

Why? I believe that Small Groups are THE on-ramp for newcomers and members alike to grow, to connect with others, and to find their home here at Northwest Church. I believe that spiritual growth flows from a commitment to God and the Bible as well as a commitment to significant Christian relationships.

To help develop these relationships, we’re focusing on Small Groups where people study God’s Word together and discuss the issues and challenges of life. Small groups provide a place for celebration in good times, and support and prayerful concern when life gets hard.

I believe it’s God’s desire that every member of our church is involved in the Small Group experience.

42They

devoted

themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the

Pastor Will

fellowship, to the

Join a small group on Sundays, January 8 or 15, 2012

breaking of bread

Quarterly System

prayer...44All the

and to

Most small groups now run on a 10-12 week quarterly system in the Fall, Winter, and Spring, and take the Summer off!

together and had

Easy On and Off Ramps You’ll have two Sundays to sign-up for a group that is not yet full. You can sign up and attend a group during the first three weeks to decide if it’s a good fit for you. If it’s not, you can look for another group.

How Do I Sign Up? Go to the South Lawn between services on Sundays, January 8 or 15, and CHOOSE YOUR GROUP by filling out and turning in the registration card. Then your leader will get in touch with you.

Page 2

believers were

everything in common.”

Acts 2:42,44

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Page 15

Special Interest

Small Groups Table of Contents

#36 MIXED—Divorce Care

Monday @ 6:30PM

This weekly support group and seminar is conducted by people who understand what adults experience when they go through a divorce. Classes will begin January 23.

Divorce Care Mixed Led by Barbara Parker Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

These groups study the previous Sunday’s message in greater depth. You’ll roll up your sleeves and discuss how the message works in real life – in your life!

Northwest Support Ministry Space Is Available!

#37 MIXED—Grief Share

Monday @ 6:30PM

This weekly support group and seminar is conducted for people grieving the loss of someone close. Classes begin January 23.

Grief Share Mixed Led by Maggie Ratliff Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Northwest Support Ministry

Wednesday @ 7:30PM

This multi-generational gathering of couples with kids and singles is nicknamed the “Sugar Group.” They have been together for over 20 years! They all enjoy dinner at 6:00PM then group at 7:30PM. Virgil & Lois have been at Northwest since 1977 and have two grown sons and four grandchildren. Virgil is retired and Lois works as an anesthetist.

Virgil & Lois Swearingen Mixed—America’s Godly Christian Heritage Wednesday @ 7:30PM Area of town: Various

First Saturday @ 8:00AM

Join us for corporate prayer for our Northwest Church family. These prayer warriors walk the perimeter of our campus going into classrooms and offices praying for God’s Spirit to protect and give power in the Name of Jesus as our church proclaims Him from the corner of West & Barstow. This group meets the first Saturday of each month.

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These groups are either Bible, book, or video studies – on subjects such as marriage, parenting, support, men’s issues, women’s issues and more.

College & Career ................................................................Page 7 Men .........................................................................................Page 7 Women...................................................................................Page 10 Mixed .....................................................................................Page 13

Maximum Enrollment: 22 Space Available: 2

#39 MIXED

Barbara Parker Mixed—Gatekeepers First Saturday @ 8:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Singles ....................................................................................Page 4 Men .........................................................................................Page 4 Women...................................................................................Page 4 Married ..................................................................................Page 5 Mixed .....................................................................................Page 5

Special-Interest Small Groups Space Is Available!

#38 MIXED

Sermon-Based Small Groups

Space Is Available!

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Please Note…

Although our intent is to invite our members and guests to connect into a Small Group—the heart of Northwest Church, we’d also like you to know that this catalog represents less than one half of our Small Group outreach. The other half of our groups are already filled to capacity!

So we can say, with confidence, that we are not just a church with small groups, we are truly a church of small groups.

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

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SermonSermon-Based

Small Groups

Our SERMON-BASED SMALL GROUPS are listed chronologically (Sunday through Saturday) within the following groupings: • Singles Group Page 4 Page 4 • Men’s Group • Women’s Group Page 4 • Married Groups Page 5 • Mixed Groups Page 5

#1

SINGLES

#32 WOMEN

CELEBRATE RECOVERY WOMEN Thursday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Sunday @ 9:30AM

Sonny Hicks Singles—Sermon-Based Sunday @ 9:30AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 1

#2

MEN

Kathleen Stevens-Galpin Women—Live Relationally

by Heitzig & Rose Friday @ 9:30AM Meets at Northwest Church

#3

WOMEN

David Wolrath Mixed—Singers 3rd & 5th Sunday @ 2:30PM Area of town: Various

Thursday @ 7:00PM

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Maximum Enrollment: 13 Space Available: 6

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Sunday @ 2:30PM—3rd & 5th

This Broadcast Praise Singers group meets the 3rd and 5th Sunday of each month to visit retirement, assisted living and senior citizen facilities where they sing old church hymns and broadcast seed. Everyone sings along and enjoys the inspirational lyrics and melodies of these beautiful old hymns. Children are welcomed as seniors love them. David has been part of our music team at Northwest since 1981.

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 7

#35 MIXED

This multi-generational women’s group is full of wonderful women who are like family. Tina has been part of our Northwest family pretty much all her life. She has been a small group leader since 2004, sings in our Northwest Spirit Choir, and is the mother of Daniel who is 3 years old.

Tina Wallis Women—Sermon-Based Thursday @ 7:00PM Area of town: 93722

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 3

#34 MIXED

Friday @ 6:00AM

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 1

Friday @ 9:30AM

This group called “Mending Hearts” is a place where young mothers, retired ladies and anyone in between become close friends and provide prayer support for one another. Child care is available upon request. Book cost is $8.00.

Kathleen is a retired elementary school teacher who has been part of our Northwest Spirit Choir since 1996.

Bill has been at Northwest since 1985 and is retired from the dental profession.

He enjoys working in his garden and creating metal art designs. This unique sermon-based group enjoys additional indepth study each week.

Bill Watters Men—Sermon-Based Friday @ 6:00AM Area of town: 93711

Space Is Available!

#33 WOMEN

Sonny moved to Fresno from Exeter in 2004, retired from Verizon, works for the Fresno County Assessor's Office as a computer mapper, and is an avid cyclist.

This singles group enjoys sharing what they learned from the sermon each week, plus personal concerns and needs. It is convenient to meet on Sunday mornings since we are already here for church.

Thursday @ 6:30PM

Celebrate Recovery - Learn to identify and share what’s really going on in your life – the stresses, insecurities, struggles & hurts. Come by yourself, bring a friend, or bring your family – there’s something for everyone!

Large Group 6:30PM: Worship through music, followed by a testimony or message.

Small Group 7:30PM: Gender-specific and confidential, guidelines encourage productive and meaningful sharing. First-time visitors meet in G101.

Women’s Small Groups: Hurts, Habits and Hang-ups; Codependency; Codependency & Abuse; Substance Abuse; Anger. (For Men’s groups see #20)

Monday @ Noon

This prayer group meets every Monday at 12 Noon to pray for our church family, city, state, nation and world. Many come during their lunch hour to petition our Heavenly Father on behalf of others. Barbara, a retired nurse, is a prayer warrior with a heart to pray for others.

Barbara Parker Mixed—Prayer Group Monday @ Noon Meets at Northwest Church

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Space Is Available!

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Special Interest

Small Groups

#28 WOMEN

Tuesday @ 7:00PM

#4

This class provides a safe, non-threatening environment for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. We will help identify and work through issues while allowing Jesus to heal. This is a support group, not a therapy group, and the facilitators are not trained therapists.

Nancy Avera Women—Door of Hope Tuesday @ 7:00PM Area of town: 93722

Northwest Support Ministry Maximum Enrollment: 6 Space Available: 5

#29 WOMEN

Monica Nolasco Women Professional Women Wednesday @ 6:00PM Area of town: 93704

#30 WOMEN

#31 WOMEN

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Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

MARRIED

Monday @ 6:45PM

Ryan and Grace Ann have been married since 1992 and have two sons in high school. Ryan is a contractor who enjoys golf and is our Northwest Church men’s small group facilitator trainer for Celebrate Recovery. Grace Ann is a stay-athome mom who loves to cook. This group is made up of families with grade school-aged children.

Ryan & Grace Ann McKinney Married—Sermon-Based Monday @ 6:45PM Area of town: 93722

Second Thursday @ 11:15AM

Maximum Enrollment: 27 Space Available: 3

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 2

#6

Maximum Enrollment: 12 Space Available: 2

#7

JoAnn was the assistant to the Chief Public Health Dental Officer on the Island of Guam and is currently a volunteer Chaplin’s Aid for Children’s Hospital Central California. This small group for widows offers a way to connect with each other in a safe environment while enjoying fellowship through social outings.

JoAnn Miller Women Friendly Connections 2nd Thursday @ 11:15AM Meets at Northwest Church

Sunday @ 6:00PM

Dave & Kerry Shackelford Married—Sermon-Based Sunday @ 6:00PM Area of town: Clovis

First Wednesday @ 7:30PM

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 5

MARRIED

Dave works as an area director for an international nonprofit ministry. He enjoys barbecuing, reading, writing and bicycling. Kerry works as a manager’s assistant for the government relations department of a public utilites company. She enjoys entertaining, social networking, and developing her vinyl lettering side business.

Dave has two adult daughters and Kerry has two adult sons.

This group meets at Evangel Home the first Wednesday of each month where they sing hymns, conduct a Bible study and share testimonies. They also celebrate monthly birthdays. Evangel Home is a shelter for homeless women and children in Fresno. Barbara has been at Northwest church since 1975, is a retired nurse and a prayer warrior.

Barbara Parker Women—Sing & Share 1st Wednesday @ 7:30PM Area of town: 93701

Maximum Enrollment: 10

#5

Maximum Enrollment: 6 Space Available: 1

Sunday @ 3:00PM

Peter & Sandra Reta Married—Sermon-Based Sunday @ 3:00PM Area of town: 93722

Wednesday @ 6:00PM

Monica works at SCCCD Madera Center as the coordinator of the Federal College Prep Program and recently completed her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership at FSU. This small group is for working women ages 30-50 and will focus on bridging earthly priorities with heavenly perspectives in the workplace. We will be using the book God is My CEO. There is a $12.00 book fee.

MARRIED

Peter & Sandra have been at Northwest Church since 1995 and enjoy traveling with their two very active sons, ages 12 & 16. Peter is part of our men’s ministry team and is in charge of safety at Northwest Church. Sandra is employed by Valdivia, Inc. and enjoys Zumba. This group is for parents with children ages 8 through 15.

MIXED

Wednesday @ 6:30PM

This is a mixed group of fun people who enjoy spending time with each other and studying God’s Word. Bob is a veteran having served in both the Army and Marine Corps. He is our Senior Care Pastor at Northwest Church.

Bob Small Mixed—Sermon-Based Wednesday @ 6:30PM Area of town: 93722

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 16 Space Available: 4

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SermonSermon-Based #8

Small Groups

MIXED

Thursday @ 7:00PM

#24 WOMEN

This group of retired friends has been meeting together for many years. They don’t take themselves too seriously but they have a great time each week caring for each other, spending time in God’s Word, and praying together.

Gerry & Bettie Hayes Mixed—Sermon-Based Thursday @ 7:00PM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 14 Space Available: 4

Kara Berwith Women—Super Moms 2nd & 4th Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 30 Space Available: 9

#25 WOMEN

Donna Gong Women—Desiring God Monday @ 6:30PM Bi-Weekly Area of town: 93722

Monday @ 6:30PM—2nd & 4th

Do you sometimes feel you don’t deserve the title “Super Mom?” Check out our bi-weekly small group where we find encouragement and fellowship as we share in this journey called motherhood! We have devotions, guest speakers, crafts, and just time to just share. We also have a Mentor Mom who encourages us as she comes alongside with advice and helpful tips. All ages and stages are welcome.

Childcare is provided up to age 8 upon request.

Monday @ 6:30PM—Bi-Weekly

Donna has been at Northwest since 2004 and works in the Trauma Blood Bank at CRMC. She is an armchair missionary (so far), enjoys playing her piano, having breakfast with friends, and loving many nieces and nephews. Donna wants to find complete satisfaction and joy in God. She hopes others sharing this same passion will embark with her on this 12 part DVD study of John Piper’s classic book. There is a $10 workbook fee.

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 7

#26 WOMEN

Tuesday @ 9:30AM—Bi-Weekly

This unique group is for any woman with the gift of visiting shut-ins who have asked for someone to come by their home or facility. Please consider joining this group if you want to bless other women who need attention and care. This group meets bi-weekly.

Debbie Lindeman Women—Shut-In Visitation Tuesday @ 9:30AM Bi-Weekly Area of town: Various

Maximum Enrollment: 18 Space Available: 9

#27 WOMEN

Tuesday @ 10:30AM

Marilyn has attended Northwest since 2007. She is a widow with grown children, grandchildren and a toy poodle. Marilyn is a retired school teacher who loves art, music, entertaining and traveling. She also teaches art to children in her home.

There is a $20.00 book fee for this Beth Moore study.

Marilyn Lambert Women David by Beth Moore Tuesday @ 10:30AM Area of town: 93711

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Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 12 Space Available: 5

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Special Interest #20 MEN

CELEBRATE RECOVERY Men Thursday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Special Interest

Small Groups Thursday @ 6:30PM

Celebrate Recovery - Learn to identify and share what’s really going on in your life – the stresses, insecurities, struggles & hurts. Come by yourself, bring a friend, or bring your family – there’s something for everyone!

Large Group 6:30PM: Worship through music, followed by a testimony or message.

Small Group 7:30PM: Gender-specific and confidential, guidelines encourage productive and meaningful sharing. First-time visitors meet in G101.

Men’s Small Groups: Hurts, Habits and Hang-ups; Codependency; Purity; Substance Abuse. (For Women’s groups see #32) Space Is Available!

#21 MEN

Our SPECIAL-INTEREST SMALL GROUPS provide an alternative to sermon based studies. On the following pages you’ll find a variety of groups covering a broad range of topics. They are listed chronologically (Sunday through Saturday) within the following groupings: • College & Career Group Page 7 • Men’s Groups Page 7 • Women’s Groups Page 10 • Mixed Groups Page 13

#9

Friday @ 6:00AM

This men’s Friday morning small group is made up of men with a recovery background who hold each other accountable. Mark has been at Northwest Church since 1996. One of his main focuses is raising healthy kids. Mark also enjoys camping.

Mark Ringer Men—Acts Friday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 3

#22 WOMEN

Sharon Soghmonian Women Knowing God By Name Sunday @ 9:30AM Meets at Northwest Church

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Space Is Available!

Jim Tienken Men—The Book of Joshua Tuesday @ 6:00AM Area of town: 93711

Monday @ 6:00PM

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Tuesday @ 6:00AM

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 1

#11 MEN

Maximum Enrollment: 15 Space Available: 1

Sundays @ 6:30PM

If you are interested in a group of men who pray for one another, offer mutual support, spend time in the Word and enjoy great discussion about life, friendship and Jesus, then this group is for you. Whenever he can, Jim enjoys going to the mountains to fish and read. Jim has attended Northwest since 1979.

This is a group of mature women who meet in a relaxed atmosphere at a home in old Fig Garden. The group focuses on God’s Word and prayer. Sue is a real estate broker and is known as “The Rose Lady of Fresno.” She enjoys exercise, reading and the mountains.

Sue Kendall Women Honeycomb Series Monday @ 6:00PM Area of town: 93704

COLLEGE & CAREER

At College & Career we’ll seek God through reading the Bible, conversation and worship as we discover God’s exciting purpose for our lives. We’ll meet in a large group for worship and teaching then break into small groups for discussion.

Ryan is studying at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary. He loves to read the Bible and ask hard questions. Rachel has been at Northwest Church since 2002 and is a senior at Fresno Pacific University. She is part of their cross country, track and student government teams.

#10 MEN

Maximum Enrollment: 30 Space Available: 10

#23 WOMEN

Ryan Mejia & Rachel Boyd College—Mixed Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Sunday @ 9:30AM

This women’s group for all ages meets during the 9:30 hour on Sunday morning and studies Knowing God by Name: A Personal Encounter with God by Mary Kassian. The purpose of this group is to know God better and trust Him completely. There is a $14.00 book fee. Sharon has taught many women’s classes since coming to Northwest in 1997. She is the grandmother of five wonderful grandchildren and loves the ocean.

Small Groups

Wednesday @ 7:30PM

This men’s group in the 30-40 age bracket get together to talk about life and Jesus. Richard has been attending Northwest since 2002. He is involved in real estate and is an animal lover (especially the Chicago “Cubs.”) He also enjoys video games including Xbox and Wii. Richard Kenworthy Men—Galatians Wednesday @ 7:30PM Area of town: Various

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 2

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Joe Anderton Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 2

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 3

The Huddle

#14 MEN

Ed Dunkel Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 1

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Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 4

Jim Westgate Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 11 Space Available: 3

#19 MEN

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Jim has been at Northwest since 1992 and recently retired from the Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary where he taught “Practical Theology.” Jim is currently in charge of our Northwest Leadership Institute.

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 2

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Hector Romero Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

#18 MEN

Tom has been at Northwest since 1970 and is a registered investment advisor.

He is a veteran and is currently active in the Senior Track & Field Olympics.

Tom enjoys baseball and playing with his grandchildren.

Tom Marsella Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 4

Hector has been at Northwest Church since 2008 and works in special education for the Fresno County Office of Education. He enjoys fishing and spending time with his family at the beach.

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Ed has been at Northwest since 1978, is a retired civil engineer, and owns two local assisted living facilities in Sanger—Grace Gardens and Grace Meadows.

Ed enjoys 4-wheeling in the desert.

#15 MEN

Ryan Mejia Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

#17 MEN The Huddle

Rob Bausman Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Ryan is our newest Northwest Church Pastoral Intern. He has a B.A. in Marketing and is currently studying at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary. Ryan enjoys basketball, playing the drums, and video games when he finds time. He also loves to read the Bible and ask hard questions.

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Rob serves in our Awana Program and on our parking crew. He is self employed and has worked as a dental technician since 1974. Rob and his wife Sandy have made Northwest their church home since 1985.

The Huddle

The Huddle

#13 MEN

The Huddle

#16 MEN

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Joe has been attending Northwest since 1997 and enjoys target practice, bike rides and activities with his family. He has a construction and law enforcement background.

The Huddle

The Huddle

#12 MEN

Small Groups

Pastor Will’s 2012 church-wide theme, “Each One Reach One,” will equip us to reach others for Christ. In the Huddle, the men of Northwest Church will be using the New Believer’s Bible to first strengthen themselves, and then equip them to disciple a non-believer.

The Huddle

Special Interest

Men’s HUDDLE

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Lonnie is in construction and is part of our Northwest Church Counseling team.

He’s been at Northwest since 1982, and is a semi-retired self-employed handyman.

Lonnie Yunker Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 11 Space Available: 2

Page 9

Joe Anderton Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 2

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 3

The Huddle

#14 MEN

Ed Dunkel Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 1

Page 8

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 4

Jim Westgate Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 11 Space Available: 3

#19 MEN

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Jim has been at Northwest since 1992 and recently retired from the Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary where he taught “Practical Theology.” Jim is currently in charge of our Northwest Leadership Institute.

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Maximum Enrollment: 7 Space Available: 2

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Hector Romero Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

#18 MEN

Tom has been at Northwest since 1970 and is a registered investment advisor.

He is a veteran and is currently active in the Senior Track & Field Olympics.

Tom enjoys baseball and playing with his grandchildren.

Tom Marsella Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 4

Hector has been at Northwest Church since 2008 and works in special education for the Fresno County Office of Education. He enjoys fishing and spending time with his family at the beach.

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Ed has been at Northwest since 1978, is a retired civil engineer, and owns two local assisted living facilities in Sanger—Grace Gardens and Grace Meadows.

Ed enjoys 4-wheeling in the desert.

#15 MEN

Ryan Mejia Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

#17 MEN The Huddle

Rob Bausman Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Ryan is our newest Northwest Church Pastoral Intern. He has a B.A. in Marketing and is currently studying at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary. Ryan enjoys basketball, playing the drums, and video games when he finds time. He also loves to read the Bible and ask hard questions.

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Rob serves in our Awana Program and on our parking crew. He is self employed and has worked as a dental technician since 1974. Rob and his wife Sandy have made Northwest their church home since 1985.

The Huddle

The Huddle

#13 MEN

The Huddle

#16 MEN

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Joe has been attending Northwest since 1997 and enjoys target practice, bike rides and activities with his family. He has a construction and law enforcement background.

The Huddle

The Huddle

#12 MEN

Small Groups

Pastor Will’s 2012 church-wide theme, “Each One Reach One,” will equip us to reach others for Christ. In the Huddle, the men of Northwest Church will be using the New Believer’s Bible to first strengthen themselves, and then equip them to disciple a non-believer.

The Huddle

Special Interest

Men’s HUDDLE

Thursday @ 6:00AM

Lonnie is in construction and is part of our Northwest Church Counseling team.

He’s been at Northwest since 1982, and is a semi-retired self-employed handyman.

Lonnie Yunker Men—THE HUDDLE One-To-One Discipleship Thursday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 11 Space Available: 2

Page 9

Special Interest #20 MEN

CELEBRATE RECOVERY Men Thursday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Special Interest

Small Groups Thursday @ 6:30PM

Celebrate Recovery - Learn to identify and share what’s really going on in your life – the stresses, insecurities, struggles & hurts. Come by yourself, bring a friend, or bring your family – there’s something for everyone!

Large Group 6:30PM: Worship through music, followed by a testimony or message.

Small Group 7:30PM: Gender-specific and confidential, guidelines encourage productive and meaningful sharing. First-time visitors meet in G101.

Men’s Small Groups: Hurts, Habits and Hang-ups; Codependency; Purity; Substance Abuse. (For Women’s groups see #32) Space Is Available!

#21 MEN

Our SPECIAL-INTEREST SMALL GROUPS provide an alternative to sermon based studies. On the following pages you’ll find a variety of groups covering a broad range of topics. They are listed chronologically (Sunday through Saturday) within the following groupings: • College & Career Group Page 7 • Men’s Groups Page 7 • Women’s Groups Page 10 • Mixed Groups Page 13

#9

Friday @ 6:00AM

This men’s Friday morning small group is made up of men with a recovery background who hold each other accountable. Mark has been at Northwest Church since 1996. One of his main focuses is raising healthy kids. Mark also enjoys camping.

Mark Ringer Men—Acts Friday @ 6:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 3

#22 WOMEN

Sharon Soghmonian Women Knowing God By Name Sunday @ 9:30AM Meets at Northwest Church

Page 10

Space Is Available!

Jim Tienken Men—The Book of Joshua Tuesday @ 6:00AM Area of town: 93711

Monday @ 6:00PM

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Tuesday @ 6:00AM

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 1

#11 MEN

Maximum Enrollment: 15 Space Available: 1

Sundays @ 6:30PM

If you are interested in a group of men who pray for one another, offer mutual support, spend time in the Word and enjoy great discussion about life, friendship and Jesus, then this group is for you. Whenever he can, Jim enjoys going to the mountains to fish and read. Jim has attended Northwest since 1979.

This is a group of mature women who meet in a relaxed atmosphere at a home in old Fig Garden. The group focuses on God’s Word and prayer. Sue is a real estate broker and is known as “The Rose Lady of Fresno.” She enjoys exercise, reading and the mountains.

Sue Kendall Women Honeycomb Series Monday @ 6:00PM Area of town: 93704

COLLEGE & CAREER

At College & Career we’ll seek God through reading the Bible, conversation and worship as we discover God’s exciting purpose for our lives. We’ll meet in a large group for worship and teaching then break into small groups for discussion.

Ryan is studying at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary. He loves to read the Bible and ask hard questions. Rachel has been at Northwest Church since 2002 and is a senior at Fresno Pacific University. She is part of their cross country, track and student government teams.

#10 MEN

Maximum Enrollment: 30 Space Available: 10

#23 WOMEN

Ryan Mejia & Rachel Boyd College—Mixed Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Sunday @ 9:30AM

This women’s group for all ages meets during the 9:30 hour on Sunday morning and studies Knowing God by Name: A Personal Encounter with God by Mary Kassian. The purpose of this group is to know God better and trust Him completely. There is a $14.00 book fee. Sharon has taught many women’s classes since coming to Northwest in 1997. She is the grandmother of five wonderful grandchildren and loves the ocean.

Small Groups

Wednesday @ 7:30PM

This men’s group in the 30-40 age bracket get together to talk about life and Jesus. Richard has been attending Northwest since 2002. He is involved in real estate and is an animal lover (especially the Chicago “Cubs.”) He also enjoys video games including Xbox and Wii. Richard Kenworthy Men—Galatians Wednesday @ 7:30PM Area of town: Various

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 2

Page 7

SermonSermon-Based #8

Small Groups

MIXED

Thursday @ 7:00PM

#24 WOMEN

This group of retired friends has been meeting together for many years. They don’t take themselves too seriously but they have a great time each week caring for each other, spending time in God’s Word, and praying together.

Gerry & Bettie Hayes Mixed—Sermon-Based Thursday @ 7:00PM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 14 Space Available: 4

Kara Berwith Women—Super Moms 2nd & 4th Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 30 Space Available: 9

#25 WOMEN

Donna Gong Women—Desiring God Monday @ 6:30PM Bi-Weekly Area of town: 93722

Monday @ 6:30PM—2nd & 4th

Do you sometimes feel you don’t deserve the title “Super Mom?” Check out our bi-weekly small group where we find encouragement and fellowship as we share in this journey called motherhood! We have devotions, guest speakers, crafts, and just time to just share. We also have a Mentor Mom who encourages us as she comes alongside with advice and helpful tips. All ages and stages are welcome.

Childcare is provided up to age 8 upon request.

Monday @ 6:30PM—Bi-Weekly

Donna has been at Northwest since 2004 and works in the Trauma Blood Bank at CRMC. She is an armchair missionary (so far), enjoys playing her piano, having breakfast with friends, and loving many nieces and nephews. Donna wants to find complete satisfaction and joy in God. She hopes others sharing this same passion will embark with her on this 12 part DVD study of John Piper’s classic book. There is a $10 workbook fee.

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 7

#26 WOMEN

Tuesday @ 9:30AM—Bi-Weekly

This unique group is for any woman with the gift of visiting shut-ins who have asked for someone to come by their home or facility. Please consider joining this group if you want to bless other women who need attention and care. This group meets bi-weekly.

Debbie Lindeman Women—Shut-In Visitation Tuesday @ 9:30AM Bi-Weekly Area of town: Various

Maximum Enrollment: 18 Space Available: 9

#27 WOMEN

Tuesday @ 10:30AM

Marilyn has attended Northwest since 2007. She is a widow with grown children, grandchildren and a toy poodle. Marilyn is a retired school teacher who loves art, music, entertaining and traveling. She also teaches art to children in her home.

There is a $20.00 book fee for this Beth Moore study.

Marilyn Lambert Women David by Beth Moore Tuesday @ 10:30AM Area of town: 93711

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Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 12 Space Available: 5

Page 11

Special Interest

Small Groups

#28 WOMEN

Tuesday @ 7:00PM

#4

This class provides a safe, non-threatening environment for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. We will help identify and work through issues while allowing Jesus to heal. This is a support group, not a therapy group, and the facilitators are not trained therapists.

Nancy Avera Women—Door of Hope Tuesday @ 7:00PM Area of town: 93722

Northwest Support Ministry Maximum Enrollment: 6 Space Available: 5

#29 WOMEN

Monica Nolasco Women Professional Women Wednesday @ 6:00PM Area of town: 93704

#30 WOMEN

#31 WOMEN

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Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

MARRIED

Monday @ 6:45PM

Ryan and Grace Ann have been married since 1992 and have two sons in high school. Ryan is a contractor who enjoys golf and is our Northwest Church men’s small group facilitator trainer for Celebrate Recovery. Grace Ann is a stay-athome mom who loves to cook. This group is made up of families with grade school-aged children.

Ryan & Grace Ann McKinney Married—Sermon-Based Monday @ 6:45PM Area of town: 93722

Second Thursday @ 11:15AM

Maximum Enrollment: 27 Space Available: 3

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 2

#6

Maximum Enrollment: 12 Space Available: 2

#7

JoAnn was the assistant to the Chief Public Health Dental Officer on the Island of Guam and is currently a volunteer Chaplin’s Aid for Children’s Hospital Central California. This small group for widows offers a way to connect with each other in a safe environment while enjoying fellowship through social outings.

JoAnn Miller Women Friendly Connections 2nd Thursday @ 11:15AM Meets at Northwest Church

Sunday @ 6:00PM

Dave & Kerry Shackelford Married—Sermon-Based Sunday @ 6:00PM Area of town: Clovis

First Wednesday @ 7:30PM

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 5

MARRIED

Dave works as an area director for an international nonprofit ministry. He enjoys barbecuing, reading, writing and bicycling. Kerry works as a manager’s assistant for the government relations department of a public utilites company. She enjoys entertaining, social networking, and developing her vinyl lettering side business.

Dave has two adult daughters and Kerry has two adult sons.

This group meets at Evangel Home the first Wednesday of each month where they sing hymns, conduct a Bible study and share testimonies. They also celebrate monthly birthdays. Evangel Home is a shelter for homeless women and children in Fresno. Barbara has been at Northwest church since 1975, is a retired nurse and a prayer warrior.

Barbara Parker Women—Sing & Share 1st Wednesday @ 7:30PM Area of town: 93701

Maximum Enrollment: 10

#5

Maximum Enrollment: 6 Space Available: 1

Sunday @ 3:00PM

Peter & Sandra Reta Married—Sermon-Based Sunday @ 3:00PM Area of town: 93722

Wednesday @ 6:00PM

Monica works at SCCCD Madera Center as the coordinator of the Federal College Prep Program and recently completed her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership at FSU. This small group is for working women ages 30-50 and will focus on bridging earthly priorities with heavenly perspectives in the workplace. We will be using the book God is My CEO. There is a $12.00 book fee.

MARRIED

Peter & Sandra have been at Northwest Church since 1995 and enjoy traveling with their two very active sons, ages 12 & 16. Peter is part of our men’s ministry team and is in charge of safety at Northwest Church. Sandra is employed by Valdivia, Inc. and enjoys Zumba. This group is for parents with children ages 8 through 15.

MIXED

Wednesday @ 6:30PM

This is a mixed group of fun people who enjoy spending time with each other and studying God’s Word. Bob is a veteran having served in both the Army and Marine Corps. He is our Senior Care Pastor at Northwest Church.

Bob Small Mixed—Sermon-Based Wednesday @ 6:30PM Area of town: 93722

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Maximum Enrollment: 16 Space Available: 4

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SermonSermon-Based

Small Groups

Our SERMON-BASED SMALL GROUPS are listed chronologically (Sunday through Saturday) within the following groupings: • Singles Group Page 4 Page 4 • Men’s Group • Women’s Group Page 4 • Married Groups Page 5 • Mixed Groups Page 5

#1

SINGLES

#32 WOMEN

CELEBRATE RECOVERY WOMEN Thursday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Sunday @ 9:30AM

Sonny Hicks Singles—Sermon-Based Sunday @ 9:30AM Meets at Northwest Church

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 1

#2

MEN

Kathleen Stevens-Galpin Women—Live Relationally

by Heitzig & Rose Friday @ 9:30AM Meets at Northwest Church

#3

WOMEN

David Wolrath Mixed—Singers 3rd & 5th Sunday @ 2:30PM Area of town: Various

Thursday @ 7:00PM

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Maximum Enrollment: 13 Space Available: 6

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Sunday @ 2:30PM—3rd & 5th

This Broadcast Praise Singers group meets the 3rd and 5th Sunday of each month to visit retirement, assisted living and senior citizen facilities where they sing old church hymns and broadcast seed. Everyone sings along and enjoys the inspirational lyrics and melodies of these beautiful old hymns. Children are welcomed as seniors love them. David has been part of our music team at Northwest since 1981.

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 7

#35 MIXED

This multi-generational women’s group is full of wonderful women who are like family. Tina has been part of our Northwest family pretty much all her life. She has been a small group leader since 2004, sings in our Northwest Spirit Choir, and is the mother of Daniel who is 3 years old.

Tina Wallis Women—Sermon-Based Thursday @ 7:00PM Area of town: 93722

Maximum Enrollment: 10 Space Available: 3

#34 MIXED

Friday @ 6:00AM

Maximum Enrollment: 8 Space Available: 1

Friday @ 9:30AM

This group called “Mending Hearts” is a place where young mothers, retired ladies and anyone in between become close friends and provide prayer support for one another. Child care is available upon request. Book cost is $8.00.

Kathleen is a retired elementary school teacher who has been part of our Northwest Spirit Choir since 1996.

Bill has been at Northwest since 1985 and is retired from the dental profession.

He enjoys working in his garden and creating metal art designs. This unique sermon-based group enjoys additional indepth study each week.

Bill Watters Men—Sermon-Based Friday @ 6:00AM Area of town: 93711

Space Is Available!

#33 WOMEN

Sonny moved to Fresno from Exeter in 2004, retired from Verizon, works for the Fresno County Assessor's Office as a computer mapper, and is an avid cyclist.

This singles group enjoys sharing what they learned from the sermon each week, plus personal concerns and needs. It is convenient to meet on Sunday mornings since we are already here for church.

Thursday @ 6:30PM

Celebrate Recovery - Learn to identify and share what’s really going on in your life – the stresses, insecurities, struggles & hurts. Come by yourself, bring a friend, or bring your family – there’s something for everyone!

Large Group 6:30PM: Worship through music, followed by a testimony or message.

Small Group 7:30PM: Gender-specific and confidential, guidelines encourage productive and meaningful sharing. First-time visitors meet in G101.

Women’s Small Groups: Hurts, Habits and Hang-ups; Codependency; Codependency & Abuse; Substance Abuse; Anger. (For Men’s groups see #20)

Monday @ Noon

This prayer group meets every Monday at 12 Noon to pray for our church family, city, state, nation and world. Many come during their lunch hour to petition our Heavenly Father on behalf of others. Barbara, a retired nurse, is a prayer warrior with a heart to pray for others.

Barbara Parker Mixed—Prayer Group Monday @ Noon Meets at Northwest Church

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Space Is Available!

Page 13

Special Interest

Small Groups Table of Contents

#36 MIXED—Divorce Care

Monday @ 6:30PM

This weekly support group and seminar is conducted by people who understand what adults experience when they go through a divorce. Classes will begin January 23.

Divorce Care Mixed Led by Barbara Parker Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

These groups study the previous Sunday’s message in greater depth. You’ll roll up your sleeves and discuss how the message works in real life – in your life!

Northwest Support Ministry Space Is Available!

#37 MIXED—Grief Share

Monday @ 6:30PM

This weekly support group and seminar is conducted for people grieving the loss of someone close. Classes begin January 23.

Grief Share Mixed Led by Maggie Ratliff Monday @ 6:30PM Meets at Northwest Church

Northwest Support Ministry

Wednesday @ 7:30PM

This multi-generational gathering of couples with kids and singles is nicknamed the “Sugar Group.” They have been together for over 20 years! They all enjoy dinner at 6:00PM then group at 7:30PM. Virgil & Lois have been at Northwest since 1977 and have two grown sons and four grandchildren. Virgil is retired and Lois works as an anesthetist.

Virgil & Lois Swearingen Mixed—America’s Godly Christian Heritage Wednesday @ 7:30PM Area of town: Various

First Saturday @ 8:00AM

Join us for corporate prayer for our Northwest Church family. These prayer warriors walk the perimeter of our campus going into classrooms and offices praying for God’s Spirit to protect and give power in the Name of Jesus as our church proclaims Him from the corner of West & Barstow. This group meets the first Saturday of each month.

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These groups are either Bible, book, or video studies – on subjects such as marriage, parenting, support, men’s issues, women’s issues and more.

College & Career ................................................................Page 7 Men .........................................................................................Page 7 Women...................................................................................Page 10 Mixed .....................................................................................Page 13

Maximum Enrollment: 22 Space Available: 2

#39 MIXED

Barbara Parker Mixed—Gatekeepers First Saturday @ 8:00AM Meets at Northwest Church

Singles ....................................................................................Page 4 Men .........................................................................................Page 4 Women...................................................................................Page 4 Married ..................................................................................Page 5 Mixed .....................................................................................Page 5

Special-Interest Small Groups Space Is Available!

#38 MIXED

Sermon-Based Small Groups

Space Is Available!

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Please Note…

Although our intent is to invite our members and guests to connect into a Small Group—the heart of Northwest Church, we’d also like you to know that this catalog represents less than one half of our Small Group outreach. The other half of our groups are already filled to capacity!

So we can say, with confidence, that we are not just a church with small groups, we are truly a church of small groups.

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

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Notes New Quarterly Small Groups Are Forming!

A Note from Pastor Will I encourage you to join a small group this quarter which begins the week of Sunday, January 15, 2012.

Why? I believe that Small Groups are THE on-ramp for newcomers and members alike to grow, to connect with others, and to find their home here at Northwest Church. I believe that spiritual growth flows from a commitment to God and the Bible as well as a commitment to significant Christian relationships.

To help develop these relationships, we’re focusing on Small Groups where people study God’s Word together and discuss the issues and challenges of life. Small groups provide a place for celebration in good times, and support and prayerful concern when life gets hard.

I believe it’s God’s desire that every member of our church is involved in the Small Group experience.

42They

devoted

themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the

Pastor Will

fellowship, to the

Join a small group on Sundays, January 8 or 15, 2012

breaking of bread

Quarterly System

prayer...44All the

and to

Most small groups now run on a 10-12 week quarterly system in the Fall, Winter, and Spring, and take the Summer off!

together and had

Easy On and Off Ramps You’ll have two Sundays to sign-up for a group that is not yet full. You can sign up and attend a group during the first three weeks to decide if it’s a good fit for you. If it’s not, you can look for another group.

How Do I Sign Up? Go to the South Lawn between services on Sundays, January 8 or 15, and CHOOSE YOUR GROUP by filling out and turning in the registration card. Then your leader will get in touch with you.

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believers were

everything in common.”

Acts 2:42,44

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

Winter Quarter 2012 | Small Group Catalog

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Fall Quarter 2011 B e g i n n i ng Se p t e m b e r 1 1

Northwest Church 5415 N. West Ave. Fresno, CA. 93711 559.435.2200 www.nwc.org Email us at: smallgroups@nwc.org