Overflow 40 | July/August 2013 by Overflow Magazine

REAL PEOPLE. TRUE STORIES. IN YOUR BACKYARD.

OVERFLOWMAG.COM | JULY/AUGUST 2013

CONTENTS

16 RESCUE, RAISE, & REBUILD The story of Watoto’s founding and their 30-year mission to bring healing to the people of Africa reveals a revolutionary ministry that’s rescuing, raising, and rebuilding Uganda through Christ.

GOD'S LOVE COMES FULL TERM

TRUE FREEDOM IN CHRIST

United in friendship by God, two local women share about their unplanned pregnancies and how God brought healing and restoration into their lives.

Understanding the main clause of the New Covenant is the root of all liberty! Learn what Jesus' perfect work resulted in for you.

PRICELESS FREEDOM

REACHING THE YOUTH OF TAMPA

Just as our country’s forefathers vowed never to return to the bondage of the British rule, so too should Christ-followers remember that our ultimate freedom is found in Christ alone.

The Dream Center of Tampa is more than a community center; this ministry is helping young lives in East Tampa by bringing them in, building them up, and sending them out strong through Jesus Christ.

6 FROM THE EDITOR 30 LOCAL CHURCHES SALVATION

RESOURCES

MY ROCK

EVENTS

FROM FROM THE EDITOR EDITOR

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JULY/AUGUST 2013, Issue 40

Dear Friends, I really enjoy the family vacations and festivities of the summer. We get to spend time with our families and celebrate our freedom. Freedom – a word with great significance and the central theme of this summer issue. Kerry Johnson’s article, “Priceless Freedom,” reminds us of our nation’s freedom and the freedom we received from Jesus Christ. We escaped the bondage of Great Britain, and through Jesus, we forever escaped the bondage of sin. This 4th of July, let’s celebrate not only our nation’s freedom, but also our freedom as children of God! Due to a wonderful ministry called Watoto, many Ugandan people are experiencing this beautiful freedom from the Lord. In Amanda Wright’s article, “Rescue, Raise, & Rebuild,” she details the journey of Watoto’s founding by a missionary couple with a huge heart for the war-torn city of Kampala thirty years ago (on page 16). The story reveals a nation rebuilt through the transformation of vulnerable women and orphaned children affected by poverty, war, and the HIV/AIDS epidemic. It’s a ministry you’ll want to learn about, and we encourage you to support Watoto. Hearing the stories of healing and transformation taking place in those young Ugandan lives makes me even more grateful for my own children. School will be starting again before we know it. I can’t believe my son is starting kindergarten in August. It makes me tear up. He is our oldest so this will be a new adventure for my husband and me—an adventure in which we will surely need Jesus’ help. It was challenging for me to decide where to send him to school; I kept weighing all the options. I was really experiencing anguish over it, but the

Lord revealed to me that no matter where he went to school, he would do great because of the Christcentered foundation he receives at home and at church. That gave me the confidence that my son will excel and be a light to other students wherever he attends school. If you are struggling with this decision, then ask the Lord to guide you in your choice. At the end of the day, just know that the Christ-centered foundation your children receive at home and at church will be enough to spiritually lead them. Now, we have some exciting news to share with you. We have incorporated as a nonprofit ministry, and we are currently seeking 501(c)(3) status. In our hearts, Overflow has been a ministry from the very beginning, but now the Lord has led us to make it official. With this change, we are becoming a bimonthly publication. This will allow us to spend more time in the community and actively take part in helping the ministries that we spotlight to further their missions. Our desire is to continue bringing all of the Body of Christ together (across all denominations). Through this unity, we can share the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every person in the Tampa Bay area. We strive to give hope, encouragement, and love to our community through Jesus Christ. We envision Overflow being thoroughly saturated throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties, and we need your help. We have corporate sponsorships and individual donor opportunities. We have some events coming up over the next several months that we would love for you to be a part of so you can learn more about our mission and our vision for the future of this ministry. We have a great issue packed with inspiring articles. I encourage you to read them all. I hope you and your family have a blessed July and August. Happy Independence Day! Resting in the Freedom of Christ,

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How To Reach Us: 27251 SR 54, Suite B14-605 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 813-915-6700 Phone 813-463-0275 Fax Submissions: overflowmag.com/submissions General Info Inquiry: contact@overflowmag.com Subscribe: overflowmag.com/magazine/subscription Event Submission: If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please submit the information at: overflowmag.com/submissions/submitan-event/ Advertising, Sponsorship & Distribution: If you are a business or church and think advertising to over 35,000 Christians is awesome or you want to learn how you can become a sponsor, please contact: Chris Cherp | chris@overflowmag.com Overflow Magazine is published bimonthly by Overflow Magazine Ministries, Inc., a Florida nonprofit corporation. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced or copied in any form without prior written permission from a representative of Overflow Magazine. We cannot be held responsible for statements made by advertisers, sponsors, or contributing writers; however, we do make every effort to ensure the accuracy and truthfulness of the information we print. Overflow Magazine cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors made by advertisers, sponsors, and/or contributing writers. All images, written work, photographs, e-mails and letters sent to Overflow Magazine will be allocated for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted rights to edit. Overflow Magazine is distributed free of charge to local supermarkets, churches, businesses, family events and other locations around the Tampa Bay area. For information on where to find Overflow Magazine or if you would like to become a distributor, please visit overflowmag.com, call 813915-6700 or e-mail contact@overflowmag.com.

©2013 Overflow Magazine Ministries, Inc. All rights reserved. Photo Credits: ©Watoto Child Care Ministries, p. 1, 4, 16, 18; ©depositphotos.com/ mirshad420, p. 3; ©iStockphoto.com/ImagineGolf, p. 4, 12; ©depositphotos.com/ curaphotography, p. 4, 14; ©depositphotos.com/coolfonk, p. 4, 20; ©iStockphoto.com/ ebstock, p. 7; ©iStockphoto.com/halbergman, p. 7; ©iStockphoto.com/bowdenimages, p. 13; ©depositphotos.com/lunamarina, p. 13; ©depositphotos.com/sframe, p. 23; ©Dream Center of Tampa, p. 24.

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God's Love Comes Full Term

17th birthday had just passed, and as a junior in high school, I was looking forward to my boyfriend’s senior prom. All I could think about was the dress I bought the month before and how it made my stomach look big. I was living in denial up to that point of the possibility of being pregnant, but the reality really registered during those weeks. I found myself at a Planned Parenthood office, listening to a woman explain that I had only two weeks left to take care of my “problem” or I would have to live with it. That was the moment I accepted the first of many twisted beliefs on the value of life. My boyfriend’s solution was one given by a priest from his Catholic school. He explained that I could finish my pregnancy at a home for unwed mothers through his church. I wasn’t sure what to do, so I went to my mother and simply told her I was pregnant and had only two weeks to take care of the “problem.” Her reaction was a sigh. I recall driving up to a large hospital in New York City with my parents. The staff there escorted me into a very bright room where they had me lie on a table. Someone rolled an IV pole holding fluids to my bedside, and a doctor pushed on my stomach, explaining that he needed to inject a needle into my uterus and fill it with the fluid from the bags. They said that I would be staying in the hospital for a few days and could ask for pain medicine when needed.

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My bed was one of several separated only by curtains. I could hear the groaning of women in pain and the haunting sound sent chills through my young body. I remember wanting nothing more than to run, but I knew those I trusted and loved told me this was for the best. So, I had to be doing the right thing, right? When the pain started, I silently endured it, believing it would be over very soon and I could leave. To this day, I have never felt more alone and scared. I was devastated by the experience. No one prepared me to expect that I would deliver a lifeless fully formed beautiful baby. I was shocked! It wasn’t supposed to be a recognizable form of anything. What had I done? At that moment, I built a mirrored wall around my heart where I could see out but no one could

SUBMITTED BY NATALIE KEHN AND GLORIA GARCIA

see in. Something died in me that day both physically and emotionally. That night, the only sounds I heard in the hospital ward were the sobs of women brokenhearted over their decision to end life. No crying baby. No congratulations. Just regrets and deep physical and emotional pain. Let me tell you, there is a very distinct difference between weeping for joy and anguished sobbing because of death. As bright as the hospital lights were, there has never been a darker moment in my life to this day. I rarely mentioned my experience for the next 28 years. To avoid getting hurt, I would not allow myself to love or anyone to love me. I would play it safe from now on. I defended a woman’s right to choose abortion, even though I knew I would never have one again. I assumed that anyone who claimed to be “pro-life” was “religious.” When I would see them on TV or read about them, they all seemed radical and judgmental. They always seemed to be angry, screaming, and calling women murderers. No one ever asked or considered the fact that maybe some of these women had just been pressured into it, even against the desires of their own heart. Even though I defended a woman’s right to choose, every time I heard the word abortion, I would suppress my emotions, trying to desensitize my feelings. My life changed when, through a series of events, I became a born-again Christian. I had visited a church that put on a skit of a woman expressing how God loved those who had chosen abortion. That was the first time I even thought of the decision as wrong! From the world’s point of view, my choice of abortion was not only permissible, but also considered to be the responsible thing to do. I didn’t know what to expect if I dared to share my story with other Christians, so I kept it a secret in order to be accepted. I feared the judgment. I had already been wearing masks to cover my real self, so this was just one more in my collection. I was baptized in 1996, and I began participating in Bible studies, developing relationships with Christians for the first time. I was invited to attend a fundraising dinner by my attorney who served as the President of the Board to the local pregnancy center in Brandon at that time. This was my first introduction to a faith-based, pro-life organization! Other than the one skit at church, I never heard abortion discussed by Christians. For the first time in my life, I heard a woman’s testimony about healing through a post-abortion, grief-support Bible study group. I felt a strong stirring inside and felt God say, “Welcome to your future!” I answered back, “Really? I am not even sure I agree with everything I am hearing!”

At the same time, they also presented the new abstinence program they planned to offer to the high schools in the county (which became the Impact program). I thought back on the inadequate sex education I received in my high school years and realized how it had actually led to destructive behavior with lifetime consequences. I decided it was safe to start volunteering in this area because it was my hope that I could help prevent a teen from going through what I had faced. Maybe I could help some other young girl avoid an unplanned pregnancy or even contracting an STD. For the next seven years, I volunteered as a speaker for Impact, serving both as an abstinence speaker and parent educator. In 2000, I moved to Tampa and transitioned my volunteering to A Woman’s Place pregnancy center. I continued as an Abstinence Educator with Impact and volunteered part-time as a Client Advocate for A Woman’s Place. I eventually went through the “Surrendering the Secret” Bible study. After years of thinking I didn’t NATALIE & GLORIA

need post-abortion healing, I was finally set free and continue to live free. I now experience what true intimacy is, both spiritually and relationally. Today, I have two grown children, a son-in-law, and the most supportive and godly husband, Michael. God’s love healed me and melted the barriers I once had around my heart! Through Jesus, I am able to freely give His love to others. I now serve full-time as the Director of Client Services at A Woman’s Place. I have the privilege to work alongside an incredible team of staff and volunteers! I am continually amazed about how I ever got here. I can never be fully prepared in my own strength to deal with the circumstances a client may be calling about or walking in with. I continually need God’s help—for the baby whose life depends on the timing of conception, for the life that will depend on whether or not the father will go to jail, for the child who was a product of date rape, and even for the pregnant teenage daughter of a pastor. These are all real lives that have hung in the balance at our centers. We hear these ladies’ stories without judgment or criticism and try to help them overcome their struggles with life-giving solutions from God’s Word. We want to help them choose God’s plan for their lives and the lives of their children. We must draw from the intimacy we have with our Lord during these divine appointments so we can be a light to these girls. Working at A Woman’s Place, I have seen hundreds of hearts turned from death to life and transformed by the love of Christ. Every life saved reminds me of why God has called me to help these women. One woman, in particular, has had a tremendous impact on my life and her name is Gloria Garcia. The following is her story.

Gloria's Story When I first came through the doors of A Woman’s Place, I was pregnant, terrified, alone, and devastated. I came desperate for help and a change in my life. The consequences from the life I had chosen were almost too hard for me to bear. Growing up, my very legalistic church taught me that God hated and despised me. As a people pleaser by nature, it hurt me very much to hear these words, and no matter how hard I tried to be good or accepted, I could never measure up. So one day, I just gave up and embraced myself as a failure, and that is where the destructive choices began. Even though I had already let my first child go to abortion and barely survived the guilty horrors of my decision, I was right back in a similar situation. I still believed the lies of my past—that I was an unfit mom and it was best to save my baby from a terrible life. I believed that all I could offer my baby was a life of pain and dysfunction. I had never experienced love, so I did not know how to love my baby. I did not even know how to love myself. At A Woman’s Place, I saw my son for the first time on ultrasound. I fell so in love with him that I chose to keep him. While that decision felt right, I had a long road ahead to escape an abusive environment and find forgiveness for myself. Natalie opened my eyes to how God sees me and what genuine kindness, mercy, love, and grace truly looked like. I was very confused that a woman I didn’t even know could have so much compassion and love for me, but she gave it genuinely and without hesitation. If it wasn’t for her gracious kindness and compassion, I would never have been able to experience the greatest blessing of my life. I would have never known the truth about God and how much He loves the lost and unwanted like me. I am so grateful that God put Natalie in my life. She saw me for who I was, loved me, adopted me, inspired positive change in me with so much love and grace, and guided me towards God.

GLORIA & HER SON ETHAN

Now, she is the godmother to my son, Ethan. Without her, I would have missed out on the best thing in my life. I love the wisdom and insight she gives and the gracious manner in which she guides me to make the right decisions. It means so much to me to have someone like her take an interest in me and mentor me. I cannot express in words how much I appreciate, love, and respect Natalie. The wonderful women at A Woman’s Place created a safe place for both my son and me. It was awkward at first to experience so much kindness and love. They cared for our physical needs like diapers, clothes, and toys for my son—even food during the holidays. I would never have survived the first year and a half of my son’s life if it weren’t for Natalie and the women at A Woman’s Place. Since then, I have attended classes that helped me to heal and forgive myself from aborting my first child. It was one of the hardest

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and most amazing experiences I had ever gone through. The healing and grace that I experienced from “Surrendering the Secret” was more than I could ever ask for. It changed the way I saw myself. For the first time, I saw myself how God saw me, and I learned how to love and forgive myself. I was given peace to know that my daughter is safe and is waiting for me with Jesus. Today, my passion for God overflows into teaching my son about the Lord, serving the homeless, attending Bible studies, and sharing my testimony whenever I can. ■

This is what A Woman’s Place does! Clients come in for information and go out with the hope of Christ! A Woman’s Place transforms and saves lives—and Natalie, Gloria, and Ethan are living proof of God’s love coming full term. For more information about the ministries of Life Impact Network in Tampa, including A Woman’s Place and Surrendering the Secret, go to www.lifeimpactnetwork.org or call 813-931-1804.

FEATURED CLASSIC ARTICLE

TRUE FREEDOM THROUGH CHRIST BY CHRIS CHERP

A “This July as we celebrate the freedom of our wonderful God-blessed country, try remembering all of the freedoms Jesus provided for us through the Cross.”

nyone who has ever golfed or at least tried to golf knows that performance has very little to do with how hard you hit the ball. Generally the harder one tries to hit the golf ball, the worse the outcome. "Let the club do the work" is what I heard many times from the more experienced golfers who accompanied me to the golf course. Every time I listened to their advice and just swung easy, I watched my golf ball in flight headed precisely to where I aimed. Learning to relax and just letting the club do the work allowed me to shave ten-plus strokes off my game. In addition to a lower score, the frustration I once carried with me around the course left, and I began to enjoy golfing. Similar to slicing the golf ball when attempting to swing with too much effort, as Christians, many of us try to live righteous lives through our own vain efforts. The outcome is always below our expectations. I did this most of my life, and I must say it was exhausting and frustrating. As a matter of fact, every time I began to live a ‘righteous’ life based on my own efforts I would soon fail. It always seemed to happen especially on Sunday mornings when I was headed to church. However, when I started to apply a principle similar to the one I learned in golf—allow the Blood of Jesus to do the work—I began to live a life of freedom. This freedom in my life began when I understood the reason why Jesus went to the Cross for us. It was so that all who believe in Him are in right standing with God. Because God's judgment and wrath were exhausted on Jesus and He chooses not to remember our sins anymore, we are truly FREE. The main clause of the New Covenant is where we find this liberating truth: "For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will

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remember no more" (Hebrews 8:12, NKJV). Believing the main clause of the New Covenant has the ability to free any person from their past or current lifestyle or circumstances. When we make Jesus our Lord and Savior, the Lord becomes merciful to our unrighteousness and we become righteous through Jesus Christ (Isaiah 54:17). He chooses not to remember our sins and lawless deeds anymore. Psalm 103:12 (NLT) states, "He has removed our rebellious acts as far away from us as the east is from the west." How awesome is that? I began saying to myself every morning, “I am the righteousness of God through Christ Jesus,” and “I am forgiven.” After several weeks of repeating this, I began to know in my heart what that really meant. The revelation is life-changing. I now live a real life of freedom through Christ. Faking the "perfect life" is no longer necessary! It was easy, almost effortless, the moment I began to relax. I finally understood what it meant to be a partaker of the New Covenant, which is the perfect work of Jesus Christ. Freedom through Christ is so often forfeited by Christians because we don't know or don't really believe the main clause of the New Covenant. It is no longer by the Ten Commandments that we are justified but through the complete and perfect work of Jesus Christ. This July as we celebrate the freedom of our wonderful God-blessed country, try remembering all of the freedoms Jesus provided for us through the Cross. You will find the more you put this in remembrance, the more love, joy, and peace will fill your life. Eliminate the frustrating days of selfrighteousness and remember you are forgiven. Start living a life of freedom through Jesus and begin enjoying life again. I promise you will never be the same. Glory!

CONTRIBUTOR

Price

less

Free d om BY KERRY JOHNSON

“Look, those are 4th of July bags.” The boys and I were wrapping up a quick summer shopping trip to Publix when my older son pointed at the reusable shopping bags. Hanging next to the candy, the red, white, and blue bags dotted the wall, balancing out the remaining green and yellow spring bags. I have a colorful collection of reusable shopping bags, and I try to remember to bring them when I get groceries. The bag that caught my eye was red with navy handles. White, navy, and light blue words zigzagged across the front. As a reader, writer, and lover of language, I was drawn to the single word narratives of our nation’s history: troops, heart, monument, declaration, brotherhood, shining, government, allegiance, soldier, and finally, nearly lost amidst the word-maze, I found the word freedom. The United States marks the 4th of July as our National Day, a celebration called Independence Day, begun over two hundred and thirty years ago when the Founding Fathers felt freedom within their grasp. History books highlight how the thirteen colonies battled for legal, permanent separation from Great Britain during the American Revolution. The Founding Fathers were determined to free themselves from the heavy-handed monarchial rule of King George III in order to create a Constitutional Republic. They wanted liberty for their lives as well as their souls, and their sacrifices laid a firm foundation for our nation.

On July 4, 1776, the final text of the United States Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. Though it would still be a few years until the Revolutionary war ended and America was officially emancipated from the red-coated rule of Great Britain, the citizens of the colonies were finally free from Britain’s tax-heavy monarchy. George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, Roger Sherman, and others were resolute in their determination to bring lifelong liberty and a just government to their newborn nation. Though the men disagreed on certain aspects of the Constitution, there was one thing they all agreed on: they would never again be kept in bondage by the rules and laws of their former land. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made you free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage” (Galatians 5:1, NKJV). The book of Galatians is one of the Apostle Paul’s earliest letters, and just six verses in, he strongly denounces the Galatian churches for “turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel” (Galatians 1:6, NKJV). Paul had learned that the Galatian Christians were turning away from God’s grace given through faith in Jesus Christ to the restrictive, man-pleasing, and burdensome laws of Judaism. Judaizers had come to Galatia, pushing the Gentile Christians into following Jewish laws and traditions, which was a different gospel than what Paul preached.

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Despite the fact that Jesus’ sacrifice and His finished work on the Cross paid the full price for their sin, the Galatian Christians had stepped back into bondage. They were beholden to the Law, trying to earn God’s grace, yet they could never measure up. Paul’s letter reminded them that they didn’t need to measure up to the Law because Jesus had fulfilled it at Calvary. Their freedom was bought at a grace-filled price – through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice alone, not by their human works or law-following. Paul admonished them in Galatians 3:3 (NKJV), “Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh?” Just as our country’s forefathers vowed never to return to the bondage of the British rule, so too should Christ-followers remember that our ultimate freedom is found in Christ alone. He bought our heavenly liberty with His shed blood. “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5, NKJV). This summer, as you celebrate our nation’s freedoms with your family, remember to thank the One who offers us priceless freedom for eternity: Jesus Christ. The ultimate price for freedom – the forgiveness of sin and reconciliation with our Creator – was paid for fully by Him on the Cross. “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed” (John 8:36, NKJV). Let’s stand firm in the freedom that Jesus Christ has provided us! ■

FEATURED

MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT

Rescue, Raise, & Rebuild

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY WATOTO

WRITTEN BY: AMANDA WRIGHT

How Watoto Is Helping to Restore a Nation "To comfort all who mourn...to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of His splendor" (Isaiah 61:2-3, NIV).

Uganda Africa in the 1980s was a dangerous place to be—let alone live. The Ugandan people were oppressed by corrupt rulers, and the country had been ravaged by poverty, disease, and civil war. Ugandan civilians were neglected, abused, and even killed. The Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) committed senseless acts of violence on the Ugandan people, attacking villages that the government was powerless to defend. Women and children were stolen from their homes, forced to be slaves and child "soldiers" for the LRA. Countless Ugandan people were murdered with no regard for human life. In the late ‘80s, the HIV/AIDS epidemic continued to devastate the country. Medical care was unreachable to most, and as a result, millions of children were orphaned. Wives were widowed by the disease, stigmatized by their communities, abandoned by their families, and left to raise their children with little to no skills to earn a wage to support them. The poverty-stricken country caused mothers to feel helpless in raising their babies. The number of abandoned children continued to rise. Uganda was full of hurting people—people who needed to hear God's voice.

Despite what some may believe, God cares deeply for all mankind, especially for the widowed and the orphaned. He is aware of the atrocities perpetrated on the innocent. The Lord desires to restore the people affected by war, poverty, and disease. Isaiah 61:2-3 so perfectly reflects God's heart. He desires His people to know their worth, to be free, and to be filled with joy. The Lord desired this for the people of Uganda, so He sent Gary Skinner, born in Africa to missionaries, and his wife Marilyn, a Canadian, to help restore a nation and return His people to dignity.

Watoto Church Gary and Marilyn felt led to move to Africa as missionaries in 1979, but they didn’t learn the significance until four years after they had moved. The Lord told Gary, "Go plant an English-speaking church in downtown Kampala, Uganda—a church that is alive, not wild, conservative, not dead. You're going to sweat, shed tears, and shed blood. But if you're faithful, I will honor you, and through that church, I will touch the city...I will touch the nation" (watotochurch.com). Gary followed the Lord’s instructions and planted Watoto Church in the heart of the city. Watoto Church started having services in the Imperial Hotel. Before long, they were outgrowing their venue despite the fact that the war was getting worse and the danger of staying in Uganda was increasing. The U.S. Ambassador visited the Skinners and advised them to leave the country. However, they felt impressed that the Lord wanted them to stay and reach the people of Kampala with the message of Jesus Christ. Instead of running away from the war-torn city, the Skinners went to the army who was occupying the largest theater in the city and asked to use it for meetings. As a trade, the Skinners offered to fix up and paint the building. Gary didn't just see a dilapidated building in need of a major overhaul. Instead, he envisioned the entire place full of young people, raising their hands, singing, and praising Jesus. He knew God wanted them to have that building. The

army agreed to let them use the building for two weeks, but during that time, there was a military coup. The church was given the first rights to purchase the building. The theater still serves as the main campus today, and Watoto Church has grown to over 20,000 members throughout Kampala and Gulu.

Child Care Ministries With the ever-growing need for the care of orphaned children and vulnerable women in Uganda, Gary was reminded of the Scripture in James 1:27. He also believes it is the responsibility of the local church to solve problems in the community. After witnessing several years of mass devastation in Uganda, Gary and Marilyn knew it was time to form a ministry of the church to reach these hurting people. The vision of the church, after all, was to bring healing to the city of Kampala and the nation. Watoto Child Care Ministries was born out of the church and began working with orphans and women in 1991. The ministry was officially established in 1994. Watoto is the Swahili word for children. Watoto ministries is a holistic care program that is "positioned to rescue an individual, raise each one as a leader in their chosen sphere of life so that they in turn will rebuild their nation" (watoto.com). U.S. Executive Director, Eugene Stutzman, spoke on Watoto's mission, "We do rescue children. We take them from extreme circumstances and place them in a home where they are loved and cared for. We do raise leaders and educate them, giving them the skills they need to succeed. Our end goal is to transform and rebuild a nation." The ministry has developed their approach over the years, and the successful Watoto Model is the result. It involves physical care, medical intervention (including HIV/AIDS treatment), education (formal and technical), trauma counseling, and spiritual discipleship. The Watoto Model is lived out in three children's villages. The villages are representative of traditional homes for many cultural groups in Africa, but they also incorporate other basic needs for the family, including running water and a bathroom (which is rare in rural areas of Africa).

July/August 2013 Love+Faith+Hope

Eugene shared specifically about the Suubi Village, which is Watoto's largest and most developed village, housing over 1,000 children. The village has a medical clinic, a nursery school, a primary school, a high school, a vocational school, a community center/church, and Baby Watoto (a home for children 0-2 years old). "There is also some agricultural land and a goat farm where we are getting goat's milk for the babies to replace formula. There are several acres of land where we are growing produce used by our villages," said Eugene. Watoto has been moving toward developing villages that are self-sustaining, and there are plans to build a poultry farm as well. "The sustainability projects have a three-fold goal: meet a current need, such as food, to lower operational costs; create income potential in Uganda; and provide a training component for our children," Eugene explained. Watoto currently cares for over 3,000 children.

The Watoto Family For healthy development, a child's needs go beyond physical and educational. They require love and support. These needs are met through the homes in the villages. Each home has one housemother and eight children. The children call the housemother, “Mom,” and refer to the other children as siblings. Through a program called Father’s Heart, respectable men from Watoto Church “regularly visit the children in their villages and provide the father figure and male role models needed to complete the family structure” (watoto.com). The house dynamic is that of a real family. The children do chores and help their mother with the younger kids. Each child is supported until they have graduated from college or a vocational school and have started a career. The people in the home where they grew up will always be their family. Eugene shared, "The moms are really the key to the success of Watoto because they are providing the immediate care to the kids, the love, the nurturing, the discipline, and the training in the home." These incredible women love each of

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to Watoto, so they are our kids," Eugene explained. Watoto has a Homes Management Team in place to receive the new children. They first spend several weeks at an orientation village so they can become acclimated to life at one of the three Watoto villages. Then, the team decides where the children will be placed in the villages, ensuring a proper range of ages for each housemother. In other cases, when a child is brought to Watoto under the age of two, often under emergency WATOTO'S SUUBI VILLAGE circumstances, the process is a little different. Eugene explained, "There is a high percentage of babies that are abandoned at childbirth. Either the mom dies or she'll give birth and just walk out. She the children as if they were their either feels she can't afford to care for the child own flesh and blood. "Many of these or she doesn't want to.” women have been abandoned [by “The other side of it is children who are born their husbands]," Eugene said. “Also, outside of the hospital and thrown out. We've a lot of the moms have come from had so many kids that were found in the trash," situations where their husbands Eugene said. “People bring them to our door and have passed away.” we take them in. The first thing we do is provide It's clear that these women the care they need to get them healthy and then are not only finding refuge in we pursue the social work side of it after." It is Watoto (when they might not saddening to think of these precious lives tossed have had anywhere else to go), aside like trash, but it also makes it all the more but they, like the children, are also evident why Baby Watoto is such an important being restored and united with part of the ministry. The babies remain with the a family to love. These women nannies until they are around two years old. At and children each go through a that time, they begin to transition the babies in process to be received into Watoto. pairs to a home in the village. There is an application process for the mothers, along with training, mentoring, and a time where they Watoto Children's Choir live in a house with a senior mom for more training before they are In 1994, the Skinners stepped out in faith once given a home of their own. again. They knew the world needed to know A child's process is also well about Watoto and what they were doing to organized. "We don't go out into the restore the lives of women and children. They streets and collect children," Eugene took a group of 15 children to Chicago with no said. "The kids that we get are tour booked. They got off the plane and started referred to us by other organizations calling churches and found a place to go for the or government agencies. When a first night. The first children's choir performed child is first referred to us, our social and made such an impact that they were invited workers go out and investigate, visit to another church, then another church, until they the child where they are, and try toured all the way down to Florida. "They met to find living relatives for them." If some really key people on that trip that said, ‘You Watoto is unable to locate any living need to have an office here in Florida to support or suitable relatives for the child, you.’ That's part of how the [U.S.] office came to they go through the court system be [in Lutz, Florida]," Eugene explained. and obtain legal custody. "We have a Over ten years ago, Eugene and his wife had care order that assigns guardianship the opportunity to see the children's choir at their

church in Ohio. In 2005, they went on a mission trip to Uganda to help build one of the Watoto villages since Eugene's background was in the construction industry. He was also the worship leader at his church, and before their last day in Uganda, the Stutzmans were asked to lead a children's choir. There are seven choirs that tour the world each year. Eugene said, "I felt like this was God speaking to me, saying this is what I want you to do." God worked everything out for the Stutzmans to sell their business and rent out their home, and by 2006, they had moved to Uganda. "We led the choir for two years," Eugene said, before moving to Florida to lead the U.S. office. The choir trained for five months and traveled for seven months in each tour. The children only go on tour one time, and they are cared for by one chaperone per three kids. The choirs have been all over the world, presenting Watoto's vision and mission through stories, music, and dance to audiences in Asia, Australia, England, Europe, Scandinavia, and South and North America. They are advocates, raising awareness about the plight of the estimated 50 million orphans throughout Africa. "One of our goals for the choir is beyond raising funds for Watoto. It's a message of hope to people who are hurting. When these kids come and share their story of where they came from and how they have found hope in Jesus and how Jesus has transformed their life...that does something to us as Americans. It is a powerful ministry," Eugene said. Churches who host a Watoto choir are encouraged to invite believers and nonbelievers alike because the message of the Gospel will be shared at every concert.

Watoto is Living Hope In 2008, the need to provide refuge for the marginalized women of Uganda was ever present. Living Hope, a ministry of Watoto, was formed to bring hope to abandoned and vulnerable women who are HIV+, returnees from abduction, or teenage mothers. "Living Hope is about restoring dignity to women," Eugene said. A lot of the women contracted HIV/AIDS from rape or their husband's infidelity. Some of the women who came to the ministry were former child soldiers or had been abducted and forced to be wives of rebel soldiers. These courageous women, many of whom were so abused to the point of disfigurement, were rejected by their communities and had nowhere to turn. At Living Hope, the women are given a better quality of life with basic human needs met, medical care and proper nutrition to manage HIV, spiritual and moral counseling, and vocational skills training. The ministry empowers these women to take back control of their lives and find ways to become self-sufficient, productive

members of their communities. Living Hope has helped over 2,100 women recover their selfrespect and transform their lives. Eugene said, "Those 2,100 women collectively had over 7,000 children. By improving the quality of the lives of these women, by educating them, by training them, giving them business skills, discipleship, and extending their lives, they are able to care for their own children. [As a result], we've prevented those 7,000 children from becoming orphans." It is utterly amazing to learn about a ministry that has dedicated almost 30 years to bettering the lives of the Ugandan people through Jesus Christ. God used a willing and obedient couple to rescue orphaned children and vulnerable women and raise them to be productive, Christ-following leaders of their communities, which has helped rebuild a war-torn nation decimated by poverty and disease. Through Jesus Christ and the model developed by Watoto, we can help bring change to every African nation. Watoto plans to do just that, beginning in South Sudan later this year.

U.S. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EUGENE STUTZMAN

We encourage you to be a part of this revolutionary ministry walking out the desire of God's heart to bring hope and healing to Africa and the world. There are so many ways you can get involved. To make a difference in a life right now, you can sponsor a baby, a child, a housemother, or a woman at Living Hope. You could organize a mission trip with your church and visit the villages to see the amazing transformations taking place in people's lives every day. Your church or organization can host a children's choir on the next tour. This September, in Florida, you can also hear Watoto co-founder Marilyn Skinner share stories of women whose lives have been restored and detailed in her new book, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Return to Dignity.â&#x20AC;? To request Marilyn to come to your church, please email Jennelle@watoto.com. Please take time to learn more about Watoto at www.watoto.com. Watoto is showing Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love to the orphans and widows of Africa, giving them true joy and freedom in Christ. Glory!

SALVATION SALVAT ION PRAYER

Sonship Through

Jesus

Father God, I come before You in the Name of Jesus. Your Word says that “whoever calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21, NKJV) and “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9, NKJV). Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me. It is because of Your love that You don't want me to be condemned and punished for my sins. Thank You for sending Your beloved Son, Jesus, to die for me on the cross. Jesus took my sins, penalties, and all my curses and in return gave me His blessing, righteousness, and favor. He got what I deserved so I can receive what He deserves – all good things! Jesus' blood washes me clean from every sin (past, present, and future). On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead and conquered death. Father, I thank You that when You look at me, You choose to no longer remember my sins and that You see me in all the beauty and righteousness of Jesus. Holy Spirit, fill me to overflowing and lead me through this life – thank You, Father. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

or you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God" (Romans 8:15-16, NKJV). Once we make the decision to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we receive sonship with God. In other words, we're brought into God's family and made His children, which enables us to have a personal relationship with the Father. Ephesians 2:19 (NKJV) affirms this: "Now therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God." We are no longer alienated from God, and we have an opportunity to live as one with Him. Maybe you don't have an earthly family you can count on or turn to, but with Christ you always have a home. An omnipresent God turns into our "Abba," which is Aramaic for the word Father. The God whom you once didn't believe existed or

20 OverflowMag.com July/August 2013

didn't believe He cared for you becomes your Heavenly Father. This is the relationship God has wanted with mankind from the beginning, and through Jesus Christ, He found a way to reconnect with us. Romans 8:15 explains that we no longer need to fear what the world holds because the Holy Spirit dwells in each person who makes the decision for Christ, and with that comes a loving Father God. One of the amazing things that new believers experience is a deep internal knowing that they are truly loved by God. Romans 8:16 clarifies what this deep knowing is; it is actually the Holy Spirit bearing witness with our own spirit, affirming that we have become sons of God. The Holy Spirit is our direct link to the Father – a way for us to receive direction and affirmation. Don't wait another day to live out your sonship with God through Jesus. He is waiting for you and loves you even more than you can imagine. Experience God as your Father and say the above prayer aloud. ■

RESOURCES FOR YOUR SPIRIT

LISTEN

Romans 12:2 (NIV)

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will." BROWSE

BUILDING 429

We Won't Be Shaken www.building429.com

CHOCOLATE AND GOD Walking Life Together

■ Find it at: www.chocolateandgod.com "Chocolate and God Ministries is a ministry geared to reach women right where they are in life. We all face ups and downs in life and our goal is to create a community of women walking life together. We have daily devotions offering real-life solutions for women who are striving to maintain balance in their life in spite of all that goes on around them. One of our chief objectives is to empower women to be all they can be for God and to realize who they are in Christ. Our main focus is our Bible Studies, and we occasionally share recipes, tips, and great books to read. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, we invite you to walk with us as we all grow in our walk with God."

AUDIO ADRENALINE Kings & Queens www.audioa.com

-- Janet Scott

READ

UNGLUED

MAKING WISE CHOICES IN THE MIDST OF RAW EMOTIONS By Lysa TerKeurst

■ Find it at: www.ungluedbook.com

"Lysa TerKeurst admits that she, like most women, has experiences where others bump into her happy and she comes emotionally unglued. We stuff, we explode, or react somewhere in between. What do we do with these raw emotions? Is it really possible to make emotions work for us instead of against us? Yes, and in her usual inspiring and practical way, Lysa will show you how. “Filled with personal examples and Biblical teaching, Unglued will equip you to: know with confidence how to resolve conflict in your important relationships; find peace in your most difficult relationships as you learn to be honest but kind when offended; identify what type of reactor you are and how to significantly improve your communication; respond with no regrets by managing your tendencies to stuff, explode, or react somewhere in between; and gain a deep sense of calm by responding to situations out of your control without acting out of control" (www.ungluedbook.com/about).

22 OverflowMag.com July/August 2013

ALL SONS AND DAUGHTERS Live

www.allsonsanddaughters.com

TIM TIMMONS Cast My Cares

www.timmonsmusic.com

HIGHLIGHT

reaching the youth of tampa BY TOMMY BURRUS

ummer is in full swing. Children enjoy the break from school and routine, but what happens in the absence of routine is not always constructive. Not all children are fortunate to have parents who are available to them during this break. One of the more unfortunate aspects of this economy is that many people are unemployed or underemployed and are forced to work longer hours for lower pay. As a consequence, children are often left with inadequate supervision. I grew up in a home where both parents had to work, and my brothers and I were often left unattended. My parents would not have been pleased with some of the activities with which we passed our summers, but there are so many distractions and dangers now that were not a concern in my youth. Alexander Pope said, "Just as the twig is bent,

24 OverflowMag.com July/August 2013

the tree's inclined." Once a child gets going down the wrong path, it is often difficult to change their course. Difficult, but not impossible. What is worse is that many of these youth have lost confidence in our country and lost hope that they will be able to succeed. They watch their families struggle and often come to the conclusion that a good education and hard work are not rewarded. Society recognizes the problems that youth face, but society is not equipped to deal with these challenges. Their efforts often intensify the problems. While our culture has distanced itself from God and morality, the answers are found in Jesus Christ and His life-changing gospel! Pastor Craig Altman of Grace Family Church recognized this need and was deeply moved to help the youth living in a high-risk area of Tampa. Consequently, he founded the Dream Center of Tampa in November of 2010 to reach the youth and families of East Tampa and to provide a safe environment where they can find positive support and encouragement and discover the love of Christ. Thad Smith, the Executive Director of the Dream Center, shared their mission, “To awaken the possibilities of youth and families

in East Tampa through relationships and high-impact programs. Our vision is to see powerful, positive lives rising up to inspire a community.” Their tag line summarizes it well: “Bring in. Build up. Go strong!” Young people are attracted by the Dream Center’s athletic programs, art programs, and recreational activities, but that is not the extent of the program. The youth come in to participate in the activities, but, over time, develop positive relationships with adults who care about them. As that trust develops, youth are more open to the guidance offered by Dream Center staff and volunteers. Through these interactions, good character and citizenship are developed. Ultimately, the goal is for these youth to begin a relationship with Jesus Christ. The Dream Center is focused on the youth "falling through the cracks." Thad Smith explained, "We are working with youth that are involved with the juvenile justice system, school dropouts or at high risk of dropping out of school, exposed to violence, and youth that are generally easily frustrated and apt to give up. Our mentoring/coaching approach has turned this around. Some of our youth have reenrolled in school, and through our work with local businesses, some youth have found a path to employment. Yet, this only scratches the surface of our impact." Athletics provide opportunities for physical activity that teach self-discipline and teamwork. Youth participating in team sports also experience many indirect benefits such as higher selfesteem and educational success. Participation in organized sports also decreases risky behaviors. At the Dream Center, each athletic team is assigned a minimum of five adults: a coach, an assistant coach, a team mom, a "big brother," and a spiritual mentor. The youth form strong bonds with positive role models. For some of these youth, it is the first time they experience caring, trusting relationships with adults. Each team becomes its own family. Thad Smith pointed out, "Unlike many character development models, leadership at the center believes that character growth and development starts on the inside through addressing the heart, mind, and spirit of an individual, which can only occur through the development of long-term, trusting relationships." Education is another key element of the Dream Center. They offer tutoring as well as help with homework and school projects. Computers are available to the young people so that they can complete and revise their work. The program is already seeing improvement in the school performance of the participants. Youth also have the opportunity to get involved in a newer program that includes music, drama, videography, and photography. This program will be developed more

extensively. The Dream Center is planning a quality video game room for the future. They provide a cycle of other activities that allow youth to develop new skills and interests in 4-6 week classes. These classes range from music lessons to cooking to Step teams. Their mentoring approach for youth is called the E3

must include the families and community. The facilities are available for community events, and programs are available to develop life skills and enhance job skills. There are many ways we can join the important work of the Dream Center. With summer being a busy time for them, it’s a great time to help. Funding is a crucial need, and the Dream Center has been blessed to have great partners who help to financially support their

“Bring in. Build up. Go strong!” mentoring program. E3 stands for "Encourage. Empower. Edify." The goals include inspiring improved academic outcomes, exploring career opportunities, encouraging healthy behavioral and emotional interactions, building confidence, developing connections with positive role models, and demonstrating E3 values. Youth are learning to be courteous and responsible. They are encouraged and lovingly affirmed as they persevere through challenges and failures. Thad Smith added, "Our youth may not readily admit it, as many feel they have to maintain their tough image to survive in the community, but our observations of the center’s impact is certain—our youth are developing, growing, and learning to move beyond the challenges they face." The Dream Center wants to reach the youth, but also focuses on the entire community. The East Tampa/Ybor community has many inherent resources, which have not been recognized. Thad Smith explained, "We see a community full of unrealized potential and opportunity." The staff and volunteers at the Dream Center realize that lasting impact

work, but so much more needs to be done. The second floor of the facility needs to be renovated; the biggest obstacle is the $16,000 needed to install air conditioning. Volunteers are also needed, and everyone is welcome to volunteer. There are a variety of areas in which one can volunteer. They need assistance with administrative support, event planning, cleaning, and working directly with the youth. Those who volunteer for the athletic programs, mentoring programs, and tutoring programs must be prepared for the commitment and the challenges. "It takes 3-6 months for most new volunteers to move from the position of an outsider to a trusted member of the Dream Center community," Thad Smith said. Many of these youth are accustomed to being abandoned when things get difficult, so volunteers need to be persistent in expressing unconditional love and acceptance. The needs of this community represent an opportunity for the Body of Christ to respond in love. There are genuine challenges and it is difficult work, but it is possible to make a real and lasting difference. Jesus demonstrated His love for children on multiple occasions (Luke 17:1-2; Mark 10:13-15). As His people, it is our privilege and responsibility to do likewise. Glory! If you would like to help the Dream Center of Tampa, please contact Thad Smith at 813-443-4793 or tsmith@dctampa.org. The Dream Center of Tampa is located at 2806 N. 15th Street Tampa, FL 33605. Learn more at www.dctampa.org.

MY ROCK

SCRIPTURES I STAND ON

1 John 4:18 (NKJV)

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear….” This Scripture shows me that there is no fear in life or death because God sent His Son to die on the Cross and take the penalty for the sin of the whole world. Now I can rest in the love of God and live without fear!

PHOTOGRAPHED BY CARSON DAVIS

Have a favorite Scripture that you stand on? We are always looking for new people to share what God’s Word means to them. Let us know and we’ll photograph you! contact@overflowmag.com

EVENTS JULY/AUGUST

JULY 1

2-31

Christian Business Men's Connection RedRock Leadership 8184 Woodland Center Blvd., Tampa More Info: 813-885-5097 or dshock@redrockleadership.com 12pm-1pm, Weekly on Mondays

Free Summer Kids Shows at Cobb Theater

11, 18 & 25

Red, White & Zoo Holiday Weekend Military Members Get in FREE! Lowry Park Zoo 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552 www.lowryparkzoo.com *Up to 3 direct dependents are free too 9:30am-5pm

6, 20

20 27

15-19 Kingdom Rock Vacation Bible School Ages: 5-11 Heritage Church 1854 Oak Grove Blvd., Lutz 813-909-4080 Register at: www.yesheritage.com 9am-12pm, $5

Summer Fun Nights at The Florida Aquarium $15 after 4pm! 16

H2O - Humor 2 Outreach Comedy Show To Benefit Dr. Pat Clarke Int'l Ministries The Vineyard Church 5000 10th St. North, St. Pete St. Clement Catholic Church 1104 N. Alexander St., Plant City Pasadena Baptist Church 635 64th St. South, St. Pete 727-710-4094, www.h2ohumor.com 7pm, $10

Presented by Theresa Moore Unity of Tampa Church Fellowship Hall 3302 W. Horatio St., Tampa RSVP: 813-417-3722 or martreel@aol.com 6:30pm-9:30pm, $5

Christian Business Connections New Tampa

St. Andrew Presbyterian 5338 Primrose Lake Circle, Tampa For more info: shawn@tpaccorp.com 7:45am-9am, Weekly on Thursdays

New Tampa Women's Connection Luncheon Tampa Palms Country Club 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa RSVP: 813-961-2810 or beckyburgue@yahoo.com 11am-1pm, $17

12, 26 Introduction to Ballroom Dance Class & Practice Party

New Tampa Women's Prayer Connection Meeting at Bob Evans 16314 North Dale Mabry, Tampa Contact: Becky for more info 813-961-2810 9am-10am

Singles Christian Dance

Rhapsody Ballroom 12101 56th St., N., Tampa 727-348-7532 www.goodtimesdancesandparties.com 7pm-11pm, $10

Perfected Love International 10960 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace 813-315-8925, www.perfectedlove.org 7pm, Weekly on Thursdays, FREE

701 Channelside Dr., Tampa 813-273-4000, www.flaquarium.org 9:30am-8pm

6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel 813-948-5444 See movie selections at: www.cobbtheatres.com 10am (Tues.-Thurs.)

4-7

Discipleship Training Institute Classes

Christian Chamber of Commerce

La Teresita 3248 Columbus Drive, Tampa 727-424-3429, www.C3TB.org Cost: $25 for first time attendees & members 12pm-1:30pm, third Thursday

$6 Day at Lowry Park Zoo

1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552, www.lowryparkzoo.com 9:30am-5pm

26-27 A Heavenly Encounter with Kat Kerr

Presented by Women of Worship Center for Manifestation 3102 E. Lake Ave., Tampa 813-447-4323, wowatcfm@gmail.com 7pm, $10 (for dinner)

CCAI Adoption Services Information Meeting

Adoption from China & Haiti 5814 Old Pasco Rd., Wesley Chapel RSVP: ccaifl2@ccaifamily.org or 813-994-1000 1pm-2:30pm

Singles Christian Dance

Fellowship of Christian Athletes "Summertime Bash" Cornhole Tournament

Imagine School at Land O' Lakes (gym) 2940 Sunlake Blvd., Land O' Lakes RSVP: 813-784-4410 or bdurham@fca.org www.fcatampabay.com 1:30pm-5:30pm, $20

AUGUST 1

1, 8

Christian Business Connections New Tampa

St. Andrew Presbyterian 5338 Primrose Lake Circle, Tampa For more info: shawn@tpaccorp.com 7:45am-9am, Weekly on Thursdays

Discipleship Training Institute Classes

Perfected Love International 10960 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace 813-315-8925, www.perfectedlove.org 7pm, Weekly on Thursdays, FREE

Summer Fun Nights at The Florida Aquarium $15 after 4pm! 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa 813-273-4000, www.flaquarium.org 9:30am-8pm

3 10 17

3, 17

9, 10

9, 23

St. Patricks Catholic Church 4518 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa Global Family Fellowship 2289 N. Hercules Ave., Clearwater Friendship United Methodist Church 2039 Druid Rd. East, Clearwater 727-710-4094, www.h2ohumor.com 7pm, $10

RedRock Leadership 8184 Woodland Center Blvd., Tampa More Info: 813-885-5097 or dshock@redrockleadership.com 12pm-1pm, Weekly on Mondays

Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr.

Introduction to Ballroom Dance Class & Practice Party Presented by Theresa Moore Unity of Tampa Church Fellowship Hall 3302 W. Horatio St., Tampa RSVP: 813-417-3722 or martreel@aol.com 6:30pm-9:30pm, $5

H2O - Humor 2 Outreach Comedy Show

11th Annual 5K Zoo Run Run Lowry Park Zoo 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552, www.lowryparkzoo.com 6:30am (check-in), 7:30am (race), 8am (walk), & 9:15am (fun run)

Christian Business Men's Connection

Straz Center, Ferguson Hall 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827, www.strazcenter.org 7pm (Fri.), 2pm (Sat.), $15-$20

Women-N-Charge Networking Meeting Pebble Creek Country Club 10550 Regents Park Drive, Tampa www.women-n-charge.com 11:30am, $18

Rhapsody Ballroom 12101 56th St., N., Tampa 727-348-7532 www.goodtimesdancesandparties.com 7pm-11pm, $10

CCAI Adoption Services Information Meeting

Adoption from China & Haiti 5814 Old Pasco Rd., Wesley Chapel RSVP: ccaifl2@ccaifamily.org or 813-994-1000 1pm-2:30pm

28 OverflowMag.com July/August 2013

ADD YOUR EVENT If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please visit:

overflowmag.com/submissions/submityour-event Space is limited and deadlines are the 15th of the month prior to print. Reoccurring events need to be resubmitted every two months.

NIGHT OF JOY - SEPTEMBER 6TH & 7TH Featuring Skillet, Mercy Me, Michael W. Smith, Newsboys, TobyMac, Matthew West, & More Magic Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista 877-NITE-JOY, www.nightofjoy.com 1-Night Group (10 or more) Ticket: $51 2-Night Group Ticket: $94 *See ad on page 5 for more details 4pm-1am

LOCAL CHURCH SERVICES Agape Faith Fellowship Church

6805 U.S. Hwy 301 S., Riverview, 33578 813-571-9314, www.agapefaithfc.org Sun., 10:30am

Alafia Baptist Church

222 Alafia Baptist Church Rd., Lithia, 33547 813-634-8845 Sun., 9:45am, 11am, & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Anointed Word Church

1709 St. Joseph St., Tampa, 33607 813-254-5271, www.anointedwordchurch.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

Atonement Lutheran Church

29617 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-973-2211, www.be-at-1.org Sun., 10am

Bay Chapel

9020 Imperial Oak Blvd., Tampa 33647 813-406-0367, www.baychapel.com Sun., 10:30am

Bell Shoals Baptist Church

2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon, 33511 813-689-4229, www.bellshoals.com Sun., 9:15am & 11am, Wed., 7pm

Bethel Church

1510 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33603 813-238-2348, www.betheltampa.org Sun., 10:10am, Wed., 7pm

Bible-Based Fellowship Church of Temple Terrace

8718 N. 46th St., Tampa, 33617 813-980-0559, www.bbftt.org Sun., 7:30am & 11am, Wed., 9am & 7pm (Bible Study)

Boyette Springs Church of God

12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview, 33569 813-671-0086, www.boyettespringschurch.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Branch of Christ Ministries

23604 SR 54, Lutz, 33559 813-435-1469, www.branchofchrist.com Sun., 10am

Bridgeway Church

30660 Wells Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-907-1313, www.bridgeway.tv Sun., 9am & 11am

Calvary Chapel Worship Center

6825 Trouble Creek Rd., New Port Richey, 34653 727-376-7733, www.ccwc.org Sun., 8:10am, 9:45am & 11:20am

Candlewood Community Church

21418 Carson Dr., Land O' Lakes, 34639 813-956-1541, www.candlewoodfl.org Sun., 10:30am

Centerpointe Community Church

8610 Temple Terrace Hwy, Tampa, 33637 813-988-3557, www.centerpointecommunity.com Sun., 10am

Christ Apostolic Church Tampa

10620 Henderson Rd., Tampa, 33625 813-899-2464, www.cactampa.org Sun., 9am & 10am

Christ CP Church

19501 Holly Lane, Lutz, 33548 813-909-9789, www.christchurchlutz.org Sun., 10:30am

Christian Family Church

3457 W. Kenyon Ave., Tampa, 33614 813-802-8736, www.cfctampa.org Sun., 9am & 11am

Church of the Lakes

2530 Wilson Rd., Land O’ Lakes, 34638 813-948-4358, www.churchofthelakesepc.org Sun., 9:15am & 10:30am

Cornerstone Presbyterian Church

Gateway Christian Center Assembly of God

Countryside Baptist Church

Grace Family Church

17520 Marsh Road, Lutz, 33558 813-962-3584, www.cpclutz.org Sun., 9:30am & 11am, Wed., 7pm

13422 Sydney Road, Dover, 33527 813-571-8200, www.countrysidebaptistchurch.net Sun., 9:30am, 10:45am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Crosslight Church

38621 Calvin Ave., Zephyrhills, 33542 813-469-8744, www.crosslightonline.com Sat., 6pm, Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

CrossRoads Community United Methodist Church 26211 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-907-5815, www.crossroadsum.com Sun., 9am & 10:30am

Deliverance Christian Connection Ministry

2130 W. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 203, Brandon, 33511 813-401-7223, www.dccministry.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm, Sat., 9am

Dwelling Place

410 County Line Rd. W., Lutz, 33548 813-949-1912, www.thedwellingplace.us Sun., 10:30am & 2pm (Spanish), Wed., 7pm

Epistle of Christ Ministries

610 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-785-4519, www.epistleofchrist.org Sun., 9:45am, Thurs., 7pm

Extraordinary Life Church

5808 Lynn Rd., Tampa, 33624 813-908-0893 www.myextraordinarylifechurch.com Sun., 9:45am, 12:30pm (Spanish)

Faith Family Worship Center

14514 Del Valle Rd., Tampa, 33625 813-920-3685, www.ffwc.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Faith Life Church

4902 East Busch Blvd., Tampa, 33617 813-910-7336, www.flctampa.org Sun., 9:30 & 11am, Wed. & Thurs., 7pm

Family Harvest Worship Church

Meeting at Benito Middle School 10101 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-973-FHWC, www.fhwc.net Sun., 10am

First Baptist Church NPR

6800 Trouble Creek Rd., New Port Richey, 34653 727-849-4210, www.fbcnpr.com Sun., 9am, 10:30am, & 6pm, Wed., 6pm

First Baptist Church of College Hill 3838 North 29th St., Tampa, 33610 813-248-6600, www.fbcch.org Sun., 7:30am, 10am, & 12pm

First Baptist Church of Midway

2902 Midway Road, Plant City, 33565 813-752-7209, www.fbcmidway.org Sun., 10:30am

First Baptist of New Tampa

28125 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-907-1685, www.fbcnewtampa.org Sun., 9:15am, 10:30am, & 6pm

First Reformed Church of Tampa

8283 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33615 813-886-6210, www.frctampa.org Sun., 9:30am & 11am

First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church 10650 McIntosh Rd., Thonotosassa, 33592 813-986-4756, www.thonotosassabaptist.org Sun., 9:45 am, 11am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Floodgates Community Church

24152 SR 54, Lutz, 33549 813-389-0238, www.floodgateschurch.org Sun., 10:30am

30 OverflowMag.com July/August 2013

14200 North Central Ave., Tampa, 33613 813-961-4692, www.gatewaytampa.net Sun., 9:45am, 10:45am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

5101 Van Dyke Rd., Lutz, 33558 813-265-4151, www.GFConline.com Sat., 5 & 7pm, Sun., 8:45am, 10:30am & 12:15pm

Grow Life Church

Meeting at Veterans Elementary School 26940 Progress Pkwy., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-406-8963, www.growlifechurch.com Sun., 9:30am & 11:15am

Heritage Church

1854 Oak Grove Blvd., Lutz, 33559 813-909-4080, www.yesheritage.com Sun., 9:30am & 11am, Wed., 7pm

House of Prayer Church

6305 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33610 813-994-5694, www.houseofprayerchurch.org Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

Iglesia El Sembrador Wesleyano

300 S. Hillcrest Ave., Clearwater, 33756 727-481-0256, www.miiglesiaelsembrador.com Sun., 10:45am, Wed., 7pm

Iglesia La Casa De Dios

Land O’ Lakes Community Center 5401 Land O’Lakes Blvd., Land O’Lakes, 34639 727-481-0256, www.miiglesialacasadedios.com Sun., 4:30pm

Iglesia Renacer

17505 Shady Hills Rd., Spring Hill, 34610 352-346-3965, www.miiglesiarenacer.com Sun., 10:45am, Thurs., 7pm

Joining Hands Mission Church

3214 US Highway 19, Holiday, 34691 727-264-1288, www.jhmissionchurch.org Sun., 10am

Kaleomark Church

Meeting at Seven Oaks Clubhouse 2910 Sports Core Circle, Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-310-8794, www.kaleomark.org Sun., 10:15am

Keystone Community Church

21010 State Road 54, Lutz, 33558 813-962-4522, www.keystonecommunity.org Sun., 10:30am

Kingdom Life Church

39348 US Highway 19, Tarpon Springs, 34689 727-373-8718, www.kingdomlifechurchfl.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 6:30pm

Lake Carroll Baptist Church

12012 N. Rome Ave., Tampa, 33612 813-933-5683, www.lakecarrollbaptist.org Sun., 9:30am & 10:50am, Wed., 6:30pm

Legacy Church

2702 Causeway Center Dr., Tampa, 33619 813-770-LIFE, www.legacyfam.com Sat., 6pm

Life Changing International Church

2106 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, 33594 813-653-9358, www.lifechangingintlministry.com Sun., 1:45pm, Mon., Wed. & Fri., 7:30pm

Light Christian Ministries

730 W. Robertson St., Brandon, 33511 813-458-6252, www.lightcm.org Sun., 10am, Tues.& Wed., 7pm

Light of the World Ministries

1109 W. Waters Ave., Suite B, Tampa, 33604 813-409-0005, www.lightinc.org Sun., 10:45am, Mon., 7pm

Manhattan Baptist Church

4300 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa, 33611 813-831-1951, www.manhattanbaptist.org Sun., 9:30am, 10:45am, Wed., 6:30pm Spanish Service - Sun., 9:30am

Myrtle Lake Baptist Church

2017 Reigler Rd., Land O’ Lakes, 34639 813-949-5516, www.myrtlelake.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm

New Birth of Faith Fellowship Church

1725 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 33612 813-972-0101, www.newbirthoffaith.org Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm

New Life Church

1611 E. Bougainvillea, Tampa, 33612 813-971-6961 Sun., 9am, 11am, & 6:30pm, Wed., 6:30pm

New Millennium Community Church

4810 E. Busch Blvd., Suite I, Tampa, 33617 813-381-5463, www.newmillenniumchurch.org Sun., 8:30am & 11am, Wed., 7:30pm

New Walk Church

5238 Mile Stretch Dr., Holiday, 34690 727-938-2955, www.mynewwalk.com Sun., 10am & 11:15am

New Wine Outreach Ministry

6213 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33610 813-443-4503 Sun., 11am, Wed., 7:30pm, 2nd & 4th Fri., 7pm

NorthBridge Church

Meeting at John Long Middle School 2025 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-319-4588, www.nbcwc.info Sun., 10am

North Pointe Church

2427 Old Cypress Creek Rd., Land O' Lakes, 34639 813-545-9420, www.thenpc.org Sun., 9:15 am & 11am

Northwest Tampa Church of Christ

7259 Sheldon Rd., Tampa, 33615 813-886-3946, www.tampachurch.org Sun., 9am & 5pm, Wed., 7pm

Northwest Tampa Church of God

5131 Gunn Highway, Tampa, 33624 813-961-7278, www.nwtcog.cc Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

Oak Grove United Methodist Church

2707 West Waters Ave., Tampa, 33614 813-935-4471 www.gbgm-umc.org/oakgroveumc Sun., 9:30am

Oakwood Community Church

11209 Casey Rd., Tampa, 33618 813-969-2303, www.oakwoodfl.org Sun., 10:30am

Oasis World Outreach

35636 SR 54 West, Zephyrhills, 33541 813-782-2888, www.oasisworldoutreach.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm

Open Arms Church of Ybor City

1314 E. 18th Ave., Tampa, 33605 813-248-2595, www.openarmschurch.org Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

Palma Ceia United Methodist Church

3723 W. Bay to Bay Blvd., Tampa, 33629 813-837-1541, www.palmaceiaumc.org Sun., 8:30am, 9:40am, & 11am

Path of Holiness Christian Church

21307 Paoli Dr., Land O' Lakes, 34639 813-991-0192, www.pathofholinesschristianchurch.com Sun., 1pm, Tues., 7pm, Thurs., 7pm

Perfected Love International Fellowship

The Crossing Church

Real Life Church

The Daily Word

Reality Church Tampa

The Gathering

10960 N. 56th Street, Temple Terrace, 33617 813-443-5107, www.perfectedlove.org Sun., 11am, Wed., 7pm

10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, 33619 813-626-0783, www.crossingonline.org Sun., 9am, 11am, 1:30pm (Spanish), & 5pm 5221 8th St., Zephyrhills, 33542 813-782-9673, www.jtbministries.com Sun., 11am & 6pm, Tues., 7pm

6821 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 33634 813-243-2333, www.thereallifechurch.com Sun., 8:30am & 10am

39348 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs, 34689 727-942-3832, www.wearethegathering.com Sat., 6:30pm

1000 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-228-8700, www.realitychurchtampa.com Sun., 10am

The Salvation Army Worship Center

Remix Family Church

1100 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-549-5285, www.salvationarmytampa.org Sun., 11am

Meeting at Campo Family YMCA 3414 Culbreath Rd., Valrico, 33596 813-661-2273, www.remixfamilychurch.com Sun., 10am

Tims Church

601 Sunset Lane, Lutz, 33549 813-949-1239, www.timschurch.org Sun., 9:15am & 11:30am

Reveal Church

1930 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Lutz, 33549 813-393-0514, www.revealchurch.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm (Service & Youth)

Torre Fuerte Tampa

Revival Worship Church

Meeting at Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church 19911 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-410-7220, Spanish Services Sat., 7pm

9270 Bay Plaza Blvd., Suite 600, Tampa, 33619 813-621-8886, www.revivalworshipchurch.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm, Fri., 7pm

River of Life

Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel

410 Chapman Rd. East, Lutz, 33549 813-949-9931, www.riveroflife-lutz.org Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-788-2898, www.trinitychurchnow.com Sun., 10:15am

River of Praise

Trinity Presbyterian Church

5320 Palmetto Rd., New Port Richey, 34652 727-849-2762, www.thegateofpraise.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm

14925 North Boulevard, Tampa, 33616 813-961-5836, www.trinitytampa.com Sun., 9:30am, 11am & 6pm, Wed., 6:15pm

Riverside Baptist Church

Van Dyke Church

6219 River Rd., New Port Richey, 34652 727-842-1611, www.riversideloves.com Sun., 10:45am, Wed., 6:30pm (Youth Group)

Shepherd's Community United Methodist Church 2165 Shepherd Road, Lakeland, 33811 863-701-7171, www.scumc.net Sun., 10am

17030 Lakeshore Rd., Lutz, 33558 813-968-3983, www.vandyke.org Sat., 6pm, Sun., 9:30am & 11am

Victorious Life Church

6224 Old Pasco Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-973-2230, www.victoriouslifechurch.com Sun., 9am, 10:40am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Shoresh David Messianic Synagogues 813-831-5673, www.shoreshdavid.org Tampa: 4320 Bay to Bay Blvd., 33269 Fri., 7:30pm, Sat., 11am, Tues., 6pm Wesley Chapel: 33425 SR 54, 33543 Fri., 7:30pm Brandon: 4929 Bell Shoals Rd., 33596 Fri., 7:30pm

Vida Citrus Park Community Church

4202 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa, 33624 813-962-3136, www.vidacitruspark.com Sun., 10:30am

Vida Community Church

Meeting at The Dwelling Place 410 W. County Line Rd., Lutz, 33558 813-810-0863, www.vidacommunitychurch.org Bilingual-Spanish Services Sun., 2pm, Thurs., 7pm

South Brandon Worship Center

4929 Bell Shoals Rd., Valrico, 33596 813-661-2273, www.southbrandon.org Sun., 9:15am & 10:45am, Wed., 7pm (Youth)

St. James House of Prayer Episcopal Church

Water’s Edge Church

St. James Methodist Church

Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church

2708 N. Central Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-223-6090, www.sjhoptpa.org Sun., 9am & 11:30am

16202 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-971-4790, www.stjamestampa.org Sun., 9:30am, 11am & 12:30pm

30200 Overpass Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-994-5000, www.connectingfaith.com Sun., 11am, Wed., Kids 6:30pm, Adults 7pm 6100 Memorial Highway, Tampa, 33615 813-886-2536, www.wesleymemorial.net Sun., 9am & 11:15am, Wed., 6:30pm

Tampa Covenant Church

Without Walls Intl. Church

Terrace Palms Community Church

Zephyrhills First Assembly

13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd., Tampa, 33618 813-968-2979, www.tampacovenantchurch.org Sun., 9:30am, Wed., 7pm

9620 Davis Rd., Tampa, 33637 813-985-9279, www.terracepalms.org Sun., 9am & 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

The Bridge of the Bay Community Church Meeting at YMCA Camp Cristina 9840 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview, 33569 813-621-3191, www.bridgeofthebay.com Sun., 10:30am

3860 W. Columbus Dr., Tampa, 33607 813-879-4673, www.withoutwalls.org Sun., 9am & 11am, Thurs., 7pm

36322 SR 54, Zephyrhills, 33541 813-788-3490, www.zephyrhillsfirst.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm

ADD YOUR CHURCH

If you would like to learn more, please visit overflowmag.com/submissions/submit-your-church.

July/August 2013 Love+Faith+Hope