ROLLING HILLS COMMUNITY CHURCH P.O. Box 681147 • Franklin, TN 37068-1147 • www.rollinghillscommunity.org Return Service Requested.
RH LIFE ROLLING
HILLS
COMMUNITY
CHURCH
SPRING 2013
WAYS TO
SERVE P. 3
EASTER
HAPPENINGS P. 8-9
UPCOMING
MISSION TRIPS P. 12
SARA EZELL
BENEFIT CONCERT P. 14
Contents
Letter from Jeff
Welcome William Guice...............3 Mobile APPS...................................3 Ways to Serve ...............................3 Kids Ministry...................................4 WareHouse Kids Camp.................5 Student Ministry.............................6 College & Young Adult Ministry...7 Volunteer Spotlight.......................7 Easter Happenings....................8-9 Local Missions.............................10 Daddy Daughter Ball Recap.....11 Father & Son Bowl Recap...........11 Make Justice Personal................12 Upcoming Mission Trips..............12 Warm Their Hearts.......................13 Sara Ezell Benefit Concert..........14 Luminous.....................................15 Saturday Serve............................15 Communitas...............................15 Church Picnic..............................15
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 Easter is the greatest time of the year for every Christ-follower. The death, burial and ultimate resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, means everything for us changed. Death is no longer final; we will see our loved ones once again and spend eternity with God. This month, we have the amazing privilege to celebrate Easter together – the day Christ defeated death and gave us hope and life! I encourage you to prepare your heart for this special time. On March 29, we will journey to the cross at our Via Crucis (the way of the cross) Good Friday experience. On Saturday morning, March 30, is Eggspedition (including a family worship time). Then on Easter Sunday morning, we will worship and celebrate our risen Savior! I am so excited to share this Easter with you! Following Easter, we are launching a brand new Sunday morning series called, “Focus.” We are all so busy and involved in very worthwhile things, but many of us feel stressed with the pressure of life. Instead of living from one appointment to the next, what if we focused on what really matters? Instead of a lamp with scattered light, we could be a laser. This will be a powerful and timely series as we dive deep into God’s Word from 1 John. In addition to Sunday worship, I want to encourage you to take a next step of faith. Maybe for you it is baptism; maybe it is joining the church and partnering with God’s people here at Rolling Hills; maybe it is being a part of a Small Group where you can share life with others; maybe it is a mission trip to Moldova, Brazil, Kenya or India; or maybe it is serving locally through Saturday Serve or the Path Project. Whatever it is, don’t sit comfortably on the sidelines – get in the game. Be part of what God is doing and watch your spiritual life come alive! Church, I love what God is doing here at Rolling Hills! We are truly a part of something very special. Praise God for what He has accomplished these first 10 years, and let’s get ready to see what He will do in us and through us in the years to come! Blessings on you and your family today!
Luminous It’s almost time for our second Luminous conference. Anyone from a variety of leadership, creative arts, communications and ministries is invited to attend to be inspired and encouraged. We have an amazing lineup this year. Ian Morgan Cron, Makoto Fujimura, Glenn Packiam, Over the Rhine, Michael W. Smith, and many others will be with us. The keynote sessions and workshops will provide inspiration and revelation in a creative and encouraging environment for leaders, artists and communicators from around the globe. We are offering an extreme discount of 80% off for RHCC attendees, partners and leaders. Enter rhccFRIENDS (case sensitive) at http:// luminous13.eventbright.com SOON to reserve your registration. This includes Wednesday evening through Friday afternoon sessions (snacks, lunch and all event activities).
Saturday
Serve
Saturday Serve is a bi-monthly opportunity for you, your family or Small Group to come together and serve in the community. Each Saturday Serve starts with a kick-off celebration at the church at 9am. From there, participants meet with their assigned group and head out into the community. Each group is finished by noon. Saturday Serve has age-appropriate service opportunities for kids, students and adults. It is recommended to pre-register as you will be notified in advance of your team placement and what to prepare for the day. Walk-up participants are always welcome, and we place walk-up participants in groups that have space. You can register online.
Communitas, RHCC’s own ministry training school, is still going strong. The class recently completed a survey of Hermeneutics (the study of the Bible and its context), in which they took a close look at defining the gospel as well as the context surrounding major biblical events. Missions is the current topic of study as Communitas draws nearer to a mission trip to Brno, Czech Republic, in May. During the weeklong trip, the class will work with the Roma people, better known as gypsies. The Roma adhere strongly to their cultural heritage, causing them to often be ostracized by the nations in which they live. Please pray for God’s blessing on this class and the trip. If you would like to make a financial contribution to the trip, go to www.rollinghillscommunity.org/communitas.
Church Picnic Our annual church picnic is coming up on Sunday, April 28, at Deer Run Retreat. Our picnic has always been a great time to enjoy a meal and some fun together. Mark your calendars and keep an eye out for more information!
2
15
Welcome
Sara Ezell
Benefit Concert
APRIL 18, FROM 7-8:15PM AT ROLLING HILLS
14
William Guice by Sara’s brothers, Chase and Jason Ezell Have you ever been exhausted to the point your body just says, “I’ve had it!”? Your bones and joints ache; your body just can’t go any further. Fortunately, after some time and rest (and maybe a few Advil), you bounce back. And before you know it, you’re ready for action. It’s go time again. Until recently, Sara Ezell has been familiar with this routine. Even though she doesn’t run, or ride bikes, or lift weights, her body has its own way of becoming exhausted. Sara has Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), a rare genetic bone disease sometimes referred to as Brittle Bone Disease. For people with OI like Sara, it’s like being a 41-year-old woman with 41-year-old organs inside a five-year-old skeleton – and a fragile skeleton at that. Inside, it’s a constant workout, a daily marathon. After a lifetime of more broken bones that we can count (the effect of OI) and internal organs that are constantly squashed into a frame that can hardly hold them, Sara is just not able to work full time any longer. And for someone like Sara who is wired to go, go, go, this is a major bummer. All of her professional career, post-graduate school from Vanderbilt, has been devoted to teaching, building, encouraging and pushing young people. It’s been her ministry as much as vocation. In this next season for Sara, the loss of full-time income, as well as managing nearly constant pain, poses many challenges. Sara would call it “just a hiccup.” That’s how she’s always viewed OI. But one particular need is to keep her condo, her sanctuary. It’s her safe place, a place of rest, calm and comfort. It’s also fully accessible for her wheelchair and walker, and is three floors away from her guardian angel, our mom. We are a family that runs on hope. Just a drop of it is like rocket fuel for us. If we could pay off Sara’s mortgage ($75,000) that’s a lot of rocket fuel! Sara’s oxygen, medications, accessible van…all under control. But her sanctuary…we can’t lose that. You can help, and we need it. Join us Thursday night, April 18, from 7-8:15pm at Rolling Hills for a night of worship, celebration and special music from Ginny Owens, three-time Dove Award winner (among many others). We truly believe if we lock arms for Sara and boldly go to our Father with big hairy needs, He listens, and moves. We believe! Be hope for Sara. Join us, give, stay updated at facebook.com/behopeforSara.
We are excited to announce that William Guice is our new Adult Discipleship Pastor. William is married to Meredith, and they have three children: Arden (15), Aubrey (11) and Abram (10) – and they have been around RH for some time. William brings a wealth of experience having served in several pastoral roles in Louisiana and Tennessee. He has a Master’s Degree from Fuller Theological Seminary and will complete his Doctorate of Missiology there in August of this year. Be sure to give him a warm welcome to our staff!
RHCC Mobile APPs Rolling Hills Community Church App Now you can connect with Rolling Hills wherever you are by downloading the RHCC App. View live sermons, browse our sermon archives, connect with staff, see a listing of upcoming events, and much more! Just search “Rolling Hills Community Church” from the iTunes App Store or Android Marketplace.
Kids Ministry App Are you the proud parent of a preschooler, child or student at Rolling Hills? Well now, thanks to the RH Family Ministry mobile app, you can stay in touch with what they are learning wherever you are! The app is divided into three main sections - Preschool, Kids and Students. Each section provides age specific resources for your child and valuable tools to help you, the parent, stay engaged with the spiritual development of your child and build on the truths we teach on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. Download the app for FREE today by visiting the iTunes App store or Android Marketplace and searching for "Rolling Hills Community Church."
Ways to Serve! For additional information on any of the opportunities below, please contact Laura Chapman, Connections Minister. Preschool Ministry Teacher When: Sundays, 9:15-10:40am or 10:40am-12:15pm Event Camera Operators When: Sundays, 9am-12:15pm *We will train and educate Event Lighting/Projection When: Sundays, 8am-12:15pm
Greeter / Host Team Sundays: 9-9:45am, 10:30-11:15am or 12:30-12:45pm Band Musician Keyboards/Synth, Cello, Vocalists & other instruments Assessment/Audition required When: Sundays, 7am-12:15pm Parking Team When: Sundays, 8:30-9:45am or 10:30-11am & 12-12:30pm 3
KIDS MINISTRY
Family
Dedication
Warm
On Sunday, January 27, Rolling Hills’ Preschool Ministry had the opportunity to dedicate 14 beautiful babies to the Lord. It was a precious time of prayer and recognition of life verses and challenges for families and friends. A large crowd gathered in the Auditorium in support of these children and their families. Among some of the highlights were family pictures of each baby with their parents and siblings, along with a prayer over them by Nic Allen and challenges given by Senior Pastor Jeff Simmons and Preschool Minister Sara Ingmire. Lots of love and support was shown to those dedicated as family members and friends shared in this special time. We celebrate the lives of these parents and young children as well as the task they are undertaking to raise them according to God’s Word. Our next Family Dedication is May 5 at 3pm at The Warehouse.
by Steve Davis
Parent Forum
Family Worship Night
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20 • 6:15 TO 7:30PM • AUDITORIUM
WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 • 6-7:30PM • AUDITORIUM
If, like many parents, you are nervous at the thought of how salvation relates with kids and how they connect with the idea, then plan to attend the upcoming Parent Forum, Kids & Salvation. This will be a great chance to find answers to questions you’ve long had and learn more about this important topic!
This is a great time to join in worship with all of your family in one room. Kids and students will join the adults in the Auditorium. Don’t pass up this chance for a great family experience!
ROLLING HILLS
Learning Center @ the WareHouse
4
Their Hearts
Where Kids
Giggle,
Wiggle and Grow
Last December 27, 21 volunteers from Rolling Hills Community Church, GracePointe Community Church and a few friends from near and far, packed 700 pounds of new warm clothes, and headed for the frozen, snow-laden country of Moldova. Their mission was to bring the fullness of Christmas to the orphaned and abandoned children who were left behind in their boarding school with nowhere else to go and no family with whom to celebrate the holidays. The journey was not an easy one for our emissaries of grace. The weather in the northeast U.S. was uncooperative and flights were being cancelled and delayed, impacting our intrepid team’s travel. After an unanticipated overnight in Atlanta and hours of negotiating for an alternative flight, the group finally arrived at their destination and began a week of “true and undefiled religion,” visiting “orphans in their distress.” There are very few things that compare to encounters with children who have no family and who can number their worldly possessions on one or two hands. While we pity them in the same measure that we delight in giving to them, we are moved by how little they require to be happy and by how grateful they are to receive the gifts we bring. To those of you who donated to the “WARM THEIR HEARTS” clothes collection in December, know that your gifts mean so much more than something new and warm to wear. For the ones left behind and languishing in impersonal orphanages with no parents or relatives who will claim them, to put on your gifts is akin to wrapping themselves in someone’s love. For an orphan, putting on a new pair of gloves or a scarf or warm socks or any of the other items provided in love is very similar to putting on Jesus. As Paul said in Galatians 3, “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves in Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” And for an orphan, the feeling of being remembered, clothed, included, loved, means – even if for a memorable moment – that there is neither the fatherless nor the motherless. And that matters, to this one, and that one, and that one…all God’s children… and yours!
Monday and Wednesday from 9am to 2pm. REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR FALL 2013 SCHOOL YEAR. Find out more at www.rollinghillscommunity.org or contact Kelly Burton at kelly@rollinghillscommunity.org.
13
e WareHous
JMI Mission Trips
Upcoming
BRAZIL When Jeff Pittman went on his first mission trip to Moldova in 2012, he had no idea that the orphans there would radically change his life, nor that he would find himself in the position of changing many of theirs! Very shortly after he returned from Moldova, Jeff did what so many are compelled to do: he sponsored a child. That is a huge blessing for an orphan and a sponsor. But Jeff soon discovered he had an unexpected, almost miraculous connecting relationship with a client who would multiply that blessing on behalf of the 18 kids we currently have in our transitional living program. As it came about, Jeff’s business associate, Gary Belot, was a transplanted Moldovan heading up a technology company here in the States. Amazingly, Gary had a field office in Chisinau, Moldova, named Ellipse Solutions with a staff of about 18. Knowing that a part of the JMI vision for the transitional living program was for the residents to learn computer skills, Jeff contacted Steve Davis, JMI Director, and the two began to formulate a proposal for Gary’s consideration. The plan was to ask that someone from the Chisinau office volunteer to teach computer skills according to a comprehensive plan once a week in our transitional homes. In addition, JMI asked that Ellipse Solutions oversee an upgrade to internet connectivity and consider setting up one or more of the brightest students in an eventual apprenticeship through their office. Gary was very receptive to JMI’s proposal and directed his staff to assess the wireless service, make the necessary upgrades, and immediately begin the training program. But Jeff wasn’t satisfied leaving it at that. He knew there was a limited number of laptops available to the students and began advocating for more. In God’s providence, another great Moldova supporter named Stephanie Dykes was working to include JMI as a beneficiary in Ravenwood High School’s annual dodgeball event which she initiated several years ago. That event generated enough money to purchase seven additional computers. This story is a testament to what one person can do when God is orchestrating a blessing for His children (and in this case, how He can be working in the lives of different people separately in order to weave a single blessing). It is also a reminder that we all have a sphere of influence and the power and interventions of God can never be underestimated. When your heart’s desires intersect with God’s dreams for His children, miracles really do come true!
12
JUNE 15-22
JMI will send a team to Brazil to minister to remote villages along the Amazon River. There is a wide array of needs in these villages located on the rivers emanating from the city of Manaus, including poor health, education, spiritual wellness, as well as construction and farming needs.
KENYA
AUGUST 2013 JMI is looking to initiate a new ministry in Kenya. The mission will include helping with the programming of a camp for poor teens outside of Nairobi and working with Dennis and Michelle Freeland and their ministry in Kakamega. In addition to the ministry, volunteers will experience an exciting photo safari through Nakuru National Park and game preserve. Trip dates are on or about August 9-20.
MOLDOVA
3 exciting weeks
1 AWESOME SUMMER
ROLLING HILLS COMMUNITY CHURCH is thrilled to offer three weeks of WareHouse Kids Day Camp this summer. Each week of camp offers daily worship and Bible study, plus games, crafts, team building and more. Enjoy indoor and outdoor activities from 9am-3pm daily. Day camp is for kids aged three years through those who have completed 5th grade. The cost of each week is $145 per camper and includes a snack each day and a theme T-shirt for the week. Each week’s theme is unique, so pick the best one for your child or let them participate in more than one! For more information, go to www.rollinghillscommunity.org.
JUNE 29-JULY 6 (TEAM 1) JULY 6-13 (TEAM 2) This summer marks our 10th annual mission trip to Moldova. Moldova is a country dear to our hearts at Rolling Hills. It is the poorest country of the former Soviet Union and also the origin point of much of the human trafficking that occurs in Europe. There is great need in the country, particularly with orphans. Since 2003, Rolling Hills has sent teams to Moldova to minister to orphans and, through JMI, have cared for and supplied orphanages and halfway houses. We will again send two teams to visit ministries in Moldova.
3 exciting themes
Turn
JUNE 3-7
Super Hero Week
JUNE 17-21 Rock Star Week
Cthhease JULY 8-12
Beach Party Week
5
STUDENT MINISTRY
Blessing Dinner High school seniors across the country are already counting down the days to graduation. This summer will be a key time of transition in the lives of graduating seniors as they move from high school into the worlds of college and career. We like to take a moment with them at the start of this transition to bless them as they graduate into the next stage of life. Graduating seniors and their families are invited to a Student Blessing Dinner on Thursday, May 16. Keep an eye on our blog and Facebook account for more information.
Student Ministry
Schedule
FUSION @ DOCK: Sunday Mornings @ 11am (come 15 minutes early to hang out) Fusion is our Sunday morning experience to help students find a connection point into Student Ministry. Sunday morning is master teacher-driven Bible study with gender and age-specific discussion tables facilitated by a small group leader. Throughout the year, we will cover three categories: theology, text and life application.
ENGAGE @ DOCK: Wednesday Nights, 6-7:30pm Every Wednesday night throughout the school year, we have a weekly worship gathering geared specifically for teens. The environment is filled with high energy, fun games, relevant Bible teaching, student-led worship, and discussion groups for all middle and high school students.
Daddy Daughter
Candy Wonderland Ball 2013
On March 1, the Main Street was transformed into a "Candy Wonderland" as dads and granddads treated their daughters and granddaughters to a night to remember, and demonstrated to them the way they should be treated! Over 200 dads and daughters shared in the special night.
Daddy Daughter
Candy Wonderland Ball 2013
FLYTE: Sunday Mornings @ 9:30am 5th and 6th grade only On Sunday mornings, we have small group and large group learning environments specifically for preteens. The goal for FLYTE is to prepare preteens for their teenage years and get them excited about studying God’s Word by taking on the tough issues.
Sunday Morning Times: FLYTE: 9:30am, check in through Backyard 7th & 8th Grade: 11am, DOCK (Backstage) 9th-12th Grade: 11am, DOCK (Backstage)
Upcoming
Events
MIDDLE SCHOOL MISSION TRIP (6th-8th grade)
Atlanta, GA March 23-27
We will be working with Graystone Community Church and volunteering with their Path Project (similar to the one RHCC does at Franklin Estates!) HIGH SCHOOL MISSION TRIP (9th-12th grade)
Washington, D.C. June 1-8
FUGE CAMP (6th-12th grade)
Panama City Beach June 25-29
Wednesday Night Times: 6th-8th Grade: 6-7:30pm, DOCK (Backstage) 9th-12th Grade: 6-7:30pm, DOCK (Backstage)
Mark your calendar now for
SUMMER CAMP June 25-29, 2013
While it wasn’t quite the frozen tundra of Green Bay, for a while it seemed awfully close. Even considering the snow-covered fields in the morning and the mud that showed up late in the afternoon, the Father & Son Bowl was incredible! The event drew over 900 players, 100 volunteers, and many cheering fans. With games running all day that saw fathers, grandfathers or mentors playing with growing boys, there was more in the air than just football. Players enjoyed some family time and a good game of football in addition to helping the fatherless. Proceeds from the Father & Son Bowl benefit fatherless children through Franktown Open Hearts and Justice and Mercy International.
Full cost of camp is $360. Register by May 31st to reserve your spot.
FLYTE End of the Year Party
May 17 6
11
LOCAL MISSIONS
Franklin Estates by Michelle Carroll
COLLEGE AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
Path Project
February 19 marked our 25th week of Path Project in the Franklin Estates neighborhood. For many of the kids that attend our weekly homework help on Tuesdays, that’s the longest time anyone outside of their family or school has consistently been a part of their life. In August, when we started our homework help for elementary students, I thought, “I guess this is helping them,” but I didn’t fully realize how much it could change their lives. The kids were a confusing, chaotic mass whose faces didn’t yet have names. They filled the room with a mixture of English and Spanish, and I tried desperately to remember what little I learned in Spanish 101. Their big eyes peered up at me from waist height, wondering why I was there, and what I wanted. As we continued to show up week after week, I began to see the improvement in their school work. In October, I was so proud of the fact that Iris could actually read a book to me, and knew all of her numbers – something she couldn’t do just two months before. As we continued to meet the school bus week after week, the faces started to have names: Maggie, Daya, Santiago, Alexis. As November became December, the kids became a highlight of my week. They latched onto my legs with shouts of “Michelle!” as the stream of kids came off the bus. In the run-up to Christmas, we took a look at what it means to “Be Present” at RHCC. Just as Jeff was speaking about being present, I was seeing just how powerful the fruit of continuing to be present could be. We took a two-week break following the school calendar for Christmas holidays, so on January 8, I was so excited to see those brown eyes staring up at me and seeing them realize that the Path Project wasn’t going anywhere. I was going to be there every week. When I said, “Mr. Chase will be here later,” they had a foundation of trust to know those words were true. When Jason Hale was out of town one week, they expected he would be back the next. So Jason and I began to dream, to see a vision of where this could go and how big an impact showing up can make. We began to have conversations with Alan, the property manager, with Jim and Melinda who run Path Project locations near Atlanta, and with the parents in the neighborhood about how to best make an impact. Do I know what Path Project will look like for the next school year? No, but I know that in March we’re starting a Teens Club to begin building relationships with the middle and high schoolers at Franklin Estates. Do I know what facilities we will be using this summer? No, but we’re about to meet a contractor to see if renovating a building on the property is a feasible option. Do I know how long I will personally be involved with The Path Project or what it will look like in 10 years, or even next year? No, but I know that a core group of volunteers has seen what a difference they can make and bring into the vision of the Path Project. I also know that showing up consistently has made a difference in the lives of about 50 kids that live in Franklin Estates. I know that Iris can read. And I know that God is in control of it all!
New Orleans Mission Trip Rolling Hills is preparing to send out a team to do missions work in New Orleans. While in New Orleans, RHCC will partner with Harbor Community Church and other community organizations and ministries. Below is a brief overview of the organizations we will work with: HARBOR COMMUNITY CHURCH is a seven-year-old church plant that began ministering in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. BEACON OF HOPE provides a model for recovery in neighborhoods devastated by Hurricane Katrina as well as other areas affected by disaster. Beacon of Hope empowers residents to facilitate their own recovery while providing a hub of resident-driven activities and a safe environment to create the synergy essential for restoring viable neighborhoods. COMMUNITY CENTER OF ST. BERNARD – Even though it has been more than six years since Hurricane Katrina hit on August 29, 2005, the devastation in St. Bernard Parish remains overwhelming. As they undertake one of the most daunting disaster recovery efforts this nation has ever seen, the Community Center of St. Bernard is dedicated to providing hurricane survivors with the recovery resources they need in a safe and all-inclusive setting. THE NEW ORLEANS MISSION provides shelter and food for the homeless population of New Orleans.
10
Summer Staff
Program
Are you a college student or young professional looking for a volunteer opportunity? RHCC’s Student Ministry is launching a Summer Staff Program! Summer Staff will be a group of young adults who will help lead student ministry this summer. This group will have responsibilities on Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday evening, and attend camp and other special activities. Intrigued? Have questions? Contact Chase Baker, Student Pastor, or Blair Donegan (blair.donegan@att.net) for more information. Applications are available at the Welcome Desk and are due by April 1.
Calling All Interns Would you, or someone you know, be interested in joining our intern team? We are now accepting applications for the 2013-2014 internship program which begins in August. For more information or to apply visit the Rolling Hills website and select the link on the homepage slideshow.
Upcoming Events March 10 April 7 April 21 April 26
Lunch @ McAlister’s Deli (Cool Springs) Lunch @ Jason's Deli Lunch @ Noodles & Company (Cool Springs) Game Night
VOLUNTEER Spotlight COURTNEY REYNOLDS
Preschool Volunteer
I volunteer because there aren’t many ministry opportunities that allow you to impact future generations quite like working with God’s children. My hope is that these children will one day become leaders and parents themselves. I want to help play a part in molding them into the people God created them to be! I love working in the preschool ministry because it allows me to love on kiddos. Let’s face it, my spiritual gifts are not singing or preaching, but I am awesome at loving! I may only have them in my care for an hour or so, but I see it like this: if we start by loving within our church, imagine what we could do in our community around us! I feel that volunteering with kids and seeing your kids experience God moves your heart in a way you cannot fathom. Children have an amazing ability to change your approach to love. God has been teaching me a lot through working with children. Recently, I have been making it a point to practice how I love others, how I show love, how I speak words of love, and, more importantly, how I remind them that they are loved not just by me, but by the One who created them!
PHIL REYNOLDS
Greeter
I volunteer because I believe that we are all members of the church that makes up one body of believers. It’s a calling and an honor to serve within God’s church. I enjoy meeting new people and playing a part in something meaningful. The first impression a new visitor receives upon entering the church makes all the difference in how they view the church and Christians as a whole. Volunteering also has always helped me grow in my faith. Experiences help make a difference in others’ lives and can go such a long way. There are so many ways to grow in your faith, but I think nothing compares to impacting the world with other believers and helping to point people to Christ.
7
Devotional GOOD FRIDAY EXPERIENCE MARCH 29 AT 6:30PM Join us for our Good Friday experience. Worship time for adults and a special Good Friday experience for children.
STATIONS OF THE CROSS
A personal time of meditation and preparation.
Friday, March 29
Come and go anytime between 9AM and 7PM.
RO L L I N G
H I L L S
COMMU N I T Y
C H U RC H
for Holy Week There are so many currents that run through Holy Week. A roller coaster of emotions and profound, life-changing truths pack into seven days. In the same span of time that God made creation, He made it whole again. A lot can be learned by meditating on the events of this week from our perspective, looking at the whole picture, and from the perspective of the disciples, living these events one by one. To the disciples, it must not have clicked what was about to happen. By the time it did they could only watch their Messiah be tried, tortured, and crucified. It must have seemed like death claimed the final victory. Hope was snuffed out. Then, in the morning three days later, hope shines bright as the tomb is found empty, Jesus living once again in ultimate victory. From our perspective, forgiveness is perhaps the chief theme of Holy Week. God’s forgiveness of us that is so complete that it entailed His Son undergoing torture and death. It is forgiveness so complete that it wasn’t just an empty release of a fault, but the freeing of His children suffering in bondage to death. So complete that we aren’t just set free, but entrusted with the great treasure of His kingdom and told to grow it. To be diligent, faithful stewards until the day Christ returns in his full, glorious victory. Remember, when it is hard to be faithful and the battle drags you down, that the war has been won through Christ and that the same power of Christ that defeated death ultimately is in you through the Holy Spirit. Christ is Risen. Hallelujah. To the right is a list of scriptures to walk you through the final days of Christ’s earthly ministry. For a devotional guide to help lead you through these scriptures, visit rollinghillscommunity.org/holyweek.
MONDAY - MARCH 25
Holy Monday Genesis 37 & 39; Matthew 21v12-27; Mark 11v20-25
TUESDAY - MARCH 26
Holy Tuesday Matthew 25v1-30
WEDNESDAY - MARCH 27
Holy Wednesday (or Spy Wednesday) Matthew 26v6-13 and 14-16
THURSDAY - MARCH 28
Great Thursday (or Maundy Thursday) Matthew 26v26-30, 36-56
FRIDAY - MARCH 29
Good Friday Matthew 27
SATURDAY - MARCH 30
Great Saturday (or Silent Saturday) Matthew 26v26-30, 36-56
SUNDAY - MARCH 31
Resurrection Sunday Matthew 28v1-10
The Hunt for the Perfect Egg!
MARCH 30 • 9 - 11AM AT THE WAREHOUSE Join us for crafts, games, a photo booth, an egg hunt, and most importantly, a family devotional that leads back to Jesus’ death and resurrection… the true reason we celebrate Easter. This FREE event has activities for children of all ages, so make plans to attend!
SUNDAY, MARCH 31 | 9:30 AND 11AM Celebrate with us the resurrection of Jesus and the new life we have in Him. We have age-appropriate programming during both services for children aged birth through 5th grade and Student Ministry programming (6th-12th grade) during the 11am service.
Ro l l i n g H i l l s K i d s M i n i s t r y
8
9 Ro l l i n g H i l l s K i d s M i n i s t r y
Devotional GOOD FRIDAY EXPERIENCE MARCH 29 AT 6:30PM Join us for our Good Friday experience. Worship time for adults and a special Good Friday experience for children.
STATIONS OF THE CROSS
A personal time of meditation and preparation.
Friday, March 29
Come and go anytime between 9AM and 7PM.
RO L L I N G
H I L L S
COMMU N I T Y
C H U RC H
for Holy Week There are so many currents that run through Holy Week. A roller coaster of emotions and profound, life-changing truths pack into seven days. In the same span of time that God made creation, He made it whole again. A lot can be learned by meditating on the events of this week from our perspective, looking at the whole picture, and from the perspective of the disciples, living these events one by one. To the disciples, it must not have clicked what was about to happen. By the time it did they could only watch their Messiah be tried, tortured, and crucified. It must have seemed like death claimed the final victory. Hope was snuffed out. Then, in the morning three days later, hope shines bright as the tomb is found empty, Jesus living once again in ultimate victory. From our perspective, forgiveness is perhaps the chief theme of Holy Week. God’s forgiveness of us that is so complete that it entailed His Son undergoing torture and death. It is forgiveness so complete that it wasn’t just an empty release of a fault, but the freeing of His children suffering in bondage to death. So complete that we aren’t just set free, but entrusted with the great treasure of His kingdom and told to grow it. To be diligent, faithful stewards until the day Christ returns in his full, glorious victory. Remember, when it is hard to be faithful and the battle drags you down, that the war has been won through Christ and that the same power of Christ that defeated death ultimately is in you through the Holy Spirit. Christ is Risen. Hallelujah. To the right is a list of scriptures to walk you through the final days of Christ’s earthly ministry. For a devotional guide to help lead you through these scriptures, visit rollinghillscommunity.org/holyweek.
MONDAY - MARCH 25
Holy Monday Genesis 37 & 39; Matthew 21v12-27; Mark 11v20-25
TUESDAY - MARCH 26
Holy Tuesday Matthew 25v1-30
WEDNESDAY - MARCH 27
Holy Wednesday (or Spy Wednesday) Matthew 26v6-13 and 14-16
THURSDAY - MARCH 28
Great Thursday (or Maundy Thursday) Matthew 26v26-30, 36-56
FRIDAY - MARCH 29
Good Friday Matthew 27
SATURDAY - MARCH 30
Great Saturday (or Silent Saturday) Matthew 26v26-30, 36-56
SUNDAY - MARCH 31
Resurrection Sunday Matthew 28v1-10
The Hunt for the Perfect Egg!
MARCH 30 • 9 - 11AM AT THE WAREHOUSE Join us for crafts, games, a photo booth, an egg hunt, and most importantly, a family devotional that leads back to Jesus’ death and resurrection… the true reason we celebrate Easter. This FREE event has activities for children of all ages, so make plans to attend!
SUNDAY, MARCH 31 | 9:30 AND 11AM Celebrate with us the resurrection of Jesus and the new life we have in Him. We have age-appropriate programming during both services for children aged birth through 5th grade and Student Ministry programming (6th-12th grade) during the 11am service.
Ro l l i n g H i l l s K i d s M i n i s t r y
8
9 Ro l l i n g H i l l s K i d s M i n i s t r y
LOCAL MISSIONS
Franklin Estates by Michelle Carroll
COLLEGE AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
Path Project
February 19 marked our 25th week of Path Project in the Franklin Estates neighborhood. For many of the kids that attend our weekly homework help on Tuesdays, that’s the longest time anyone outside of their family or school has consistently been a part of their life. In August, when we started our homework help for elementary students, I thought, “I guess this is helping them,” but I didn’t fully realize how much it could change their lives. The kids were a confusing, chaotic mass whose faces didn’t yet have names. They filled the room with a mixture of English and Spanish, and I tried desperately to remember what little I learned in Spanish 101. Their big eyes peered up at me from waist height, wondering why I was there, and what I wanted. As we continued to show up week after week, I began to see the improvement in their school work. In October, I was so proud of the fact that Iris could actually read a book to me, and knew all of her numbers – something she couldn’t do just two months before. As we continued to meet the school bus week after week, the faces started to have names: Maggie, Daya, Santiago, Alexis. As November became December, the kids became a highlight of my week. They latched onto my legs with shouts of “Michelle!” as the stream of kids came off the bus. In the run-up to Christmas, we took a look at what it means to “Be Present” at RHCC. Just as Jeff was speaking about being present, I was seeing just how powerful the fruit of continuing to be present could be. We took a two-week break following the school calendar for Christmas holidays, so on January 8, I was so excited to see those brown eyes staring up at me and seeing them realize that the Path Project wasn’t going anywhere. I was going to be there every week. When I said, “Mr. Chase will be here later,” they had a foundation of trust to know those words were true. When Jason Hale was out of town one week, they expected he would be back the next. So Jason and I began to dream, to see a vision of where this could go and how big an impact showing up can make. We began to have conversations with Alan, the property manager, with Jim and Melinda who run Path Project locations near Atlanta, and with the parents in the neighborhood about how to best make an impact. Do I know what Path Project will look like for the next school year? No, but I know that in March we’re starting a Teens Club to begin building relationships with the middle and high schoolers at Franklin Estates. Do I know what facilities we will be using this summer? No, but we’re about to meet a contractor to see if renovating a building on the property is a feasible option. Do I know how long I will personally be involved with The Path Project or what it will look like in 10 years, or even next year? No, but I know that a core group of volunteers has seen what a difference they can make and bring into the vision of the Path Project. I also know that showing up consistently has made a difference in the lives of about 50 kids that live in Franklin Estates. I know that Iris can read. And I know that God is in control of it all!
New Orleans Mission Trip Rolling Hills is preparing to send out a team to do missions work in New Orleans. While in New Orleans, RHCC will partner with Harbor Community Church and other community organizations and ministries. Below is a brief overview of the organizations we will work with: HARBOR COMMUNITY CHURCH is a seven-year-old church plant that began ministering in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. BEACON OF HOPE provides a model for recovery in neighborhoods devastated by Hurricane Katrina as well as other areas affected by disaster. Beacon of Hope empowers residents to facilitate their own recovery while providing a hub of resident-driven activities and a safe environment to create the synergy essential for restoring viable neighborhoods. COMMUNITY CENTER OF ST. BERNARD – Even though it has been more than six years since Hurricane Katrina hit on August 29, 2005, the devastation in St. Bernard Parish remains overwhelming. As they undertake one of the most daunting disaster recovery efforts this nation has ever seen, the Community Center of St. Bernard is dedicated to providing hurricane survivors with the recovery resources they need in a safe and all-inclusive setting. THE NEW ORLEANS MISSION provides shelter and food for the homeless population of New Orleans.
10
Summer Staff
Program
Are you a college student or young professional looking for a volunteer opportunity? RHCC’s Student Ministry is launching a Summer Staff Program! Summer Staff will be a group of young adults who will help lead student ministry this summer. This group will have responsibilities on Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday evening, and attend camp and other special activities. Intrigued? Have questions? Contact Chase Baker, Student Pastor, or Blair Donegan (blair.donegan@att.net) for more information. Applications are available at the Welcome Desk and are due by April 1.
Calling All Interns Would you, or someone you know, be interested in joining our intern team? We are now accepting applications for the 2013-2014 internship program which begins in August. For more information or to apply visit the Rolling Hills website and select the link on the homepage slideshow.
Upcoming Events March 10 April 7 April 21 April 26
Lunch @ McAlister’s Deli (Cool Springs) Lunch @ Jason's Deli Lunch @ Noodles & Company (Cool Springs) Game Night
VOLUNTEER Spotlight COURTNEY REYNOLDS
Preschool Volunteer
I volunteer because there aren’t many ministry opportunities that allow you to impact future generations quite like working with God’s children. My hope is that these children will one day become leaders and parents themselves. I want to help play a part in molding them into the people God created them to be! I love working in the preschool ministry because it allows me to love on kiddos. Let’s face it, my spiritual gifts are not singing or preaching, but I am awesome at loving! I may only have them in my care for an hour or so, but I see it like this: if we start by loving within our church, imagine what we could do in our community around us! I feel that volunteering with kids and seeing your kids experience God moves your heart in a way you cannot fathom. Children have an amazing ability to change your approach to love. God has been teaching me a lot through working with children. Recently, I have been making it a point to practice how I love others, how I show love, how I speak words of love, and, more importantly, how I remind them that they are loved not just by me, but by the One who created them!
PHIL REYNOLDS
Greeter
I volunteer because I believe that we are all members of the church that makes up one body of believers. It’s a calling and an honor to serve within God’s church. I enjoy meeting new people and playing a part in something meaningful. The first impression a new visitor receives upon entering the church makes all the difference in how they view the church and Christians as a whole. Volunteering also has always helped me grow in my faith. Experiences help make a difference in others’ lives and can go such a long way. There are so many ways to grow in your faith, but I think nothing compares to impacting the world with other believers and helping to point people to Christ.
7
STUDENT MINISTRY
Blessing Dinner High school seniors across the country are already counting down the days to graduation. This summer will be a key time of transition in the lives of graduating seniors as they move from high school into the worlds of college and career. We like to take a moment with them at the start of this transition to bless them as they graduate into the next stage of life. Graduating seniors and their families are invited to a Student Blessing Dinner on Thursday, May 16. Keep an eye on our blog and Facebook account for more information.
Student Ministry
Schedule
FUSION @ DOCK: Sunday Mornings @ 11am (come 15 minutes early to hang out) Fusion is our Sunday morning experience to help students find a connection point into Student Ministry. Sunday morning is master teacher-driven Bible study with gender and age-specific discussion tables facilitated by a small group leader. Throughout the year, we will cover three categories: theology, text and life application.
ENGAGE @ DOCK: Wednesday Nights, 6-7:30pm Every Wednesday night throughout the school year, we have a weekly worship gathering geared specifically for teens. The environment is filled with high energy, fun games, relevant Bible teaching, student-led worship, and discussion groups for all middle and high school students.
Daddy Daughter
Candy Wonderland Ball 2013
On March 1, the Main Street was transformed into a "Candy Wonderland" as dads and granddads treated their daughters and granddaughters to a night to remember, and demonstrated to them the way they should be treated! Over 200 dads and daughters shared in the special night.
Daddy Daughter
Candy Wonderland Ball 2013
FLYTE: Sunday Mornings @ 9:30am 5th and 6th grade only On Sunday mornings, we have small group and large group learning environments specifically for preteens. The goal for FLYTE is to prepare preteens for their teenage years and get them excited about studying God’s Word by taking on the tough issues.
Sunday Morning Times: FLYTE: 9:30am, check in through Backyard 7th & 8th Grade: 11am, DOCK (Backstage) 9th-12th Grade: 11am, DOCK (Backstage)
Upcoming
Events
MIDDLE SCHOOL MISSION TRIP (6th-8th grade)
Atlanta, GA March 23-27
We will be working with Graystone Community Church and volunteering with their Path Project (similar to the one RHCC does at Franklin Estates!) HIGH SCHOOL MISSION TRIP (9th-12th grade)
Washington, D.C. June 1-8
FUGE CAMP (6th-12th grade)
Panama City Beach June 25-29
Wednesday Night Times: 6th-8th Grade: 6-7:30pm, DOCK (Backstage) 9th-12th Grade: 6-7:30pm, DOCK (Backstage)
Mark your calendar now for
SUMMER CAMP June 25-29, 2013
While it wasn’t quite the frozen tundra of Green Bay, for a while it seemed awfully close. Even considering the snow-covered fields in the morning and the mud that showed up late in the afternoon, the Father & Son Bowl was incredible! The event drew over 900 players, 100 volunteers, and many cheering fans. With games running all day that saw fathers, grandfathers or mentors playing with growing boys, there was more in the air than just football. Players enjoyed some family time and a good game of football in addition to helping the fatherless. Proceeds from the Father & Son Bowl benefit fatherless children through Franktown Open Hearts and Justice and Mercy International.
Full cost of camp is $360. Register by May 31st to reserve your spot.
FLYTE End of the Year Party
May 17 6
11
e WareHous
JMI Mission Trips
Upcoming
BRAZIL When Jeff Pittman went on his first mission trip to Moldova in 2012, he had no idea that the orphans there would radically change his life, nor that he would find himself in the position of changing many of theirs! Very shortly after he returned from Moldova, Jeff did what so many are compelled to do: he sponsored a child. That is a huge blessing for an orphan and a sponsor. But Jeff soon discovered he had an unexpected, almost miraculous connecting relationship with a client who would multiply that blessing on behalf of the 18 kids we currently have in our transitional living program. As it came about, Jeff’s business associate, Gary Belot, was a transplanted Moldovan heading up a technology company here in the States. Amazingly, Gary had a field office in Chisinau, Moldova, named Ellipse Solutions with a staff of about 18. Knowing that a part of the JMI vision for the transitional living program was for the residents to learn computer skills, Jeff contacted Steve Davis, JMI Director, and the two began to formulate a proposal for Gary’s consideration. The plan was to ask that someone from the Chisinau office volunteer to teach computer skills according to a comprehensive plan once a week in our transitional homes. In addition, JMI asked that Ellipse Solutions oversee an upgrade to internet connectivity and consider setting up one or more of the brightest students in an eventual apprenticeship through their office. Gary was very receptive to JMI’s proposal and directed his staff to assess the wireless service, make the necessary upgrades, and immediately begin the training program. But Jeff wasn’t satisfied leaving it at that. He knew there was a limited number of laptops available to the students and began advocating for more. In God’s providence, another great Moldova supporter named Stephanie Dykes was working to include JMI as a beneficiary in Ravenwood High School’s annual dodgeball event which she initiated several years ago. That event generated enough money to purchase seven additional computers. This story is a testament to what one person can do when God is orchestrating a blessing for His children (and in this case, how He can be working in the lives of different people separately in order to weave a single blessing). It is also a reminder that we all have a sphere of influence and the power and interventions of God can never be underestimated. When your heart’s desires intersect with God’s dreams for His children, miracles really do come true!
12
JUNE 15-22
JMI will send a team to Brazil to minister to remote villages along the Amazon River. There is a wide array of needs in these villages located on the rivers emanating from the city of Manaus, including poor health, education, spiritual wellness, as well as construction and farming needs.
KENYA
AUGUST 2013 JMI is looking to initiate a new ministry in Kenya. The mission will include helping with the programming of a camp for poor teens outside of Nairobi and working with Dennis and Michelle Freeland and their ministry in Kakamega. In addition to the ministry, volunteers will experience an exciting photo safari through Nakuru National Park and game preserve. Trip dates are on or about August 9-20.
MOLDOVA
3 exciting weeks
1 AWESOME SUMMER
ROLLING HILLS COMMUNITY CHURCH is thrilled to offer three weeks of WareHouse Kids Day Camp this summer. Each week of camp offers daily worship and Bible study, plus games, crafts, team building and more. Enjoy indoor and outdoor activities from 9am-3pm daily. Day camp is for kids aged three years through those who have completed 5th grade. The cost of each week is $145 per camper and includes a snack each day and a theme T-shirt for the week. Each week’s theme is unique, so pick the best one for your child or let them participate in more than one! For more information, go to www.rollinghillscommunity.org.
JUNE 29-JULY 6 (TEAM 1) JULY 6-13 (TEAM 2) This summer marks our 10th annual mission trip to Moldova. Moldova is a country dear to our hearts at Rolling Hills. It is the poorest country of the former Soviet Union and also the origin point of much of the human trafficking that occurs in Europe. There is great need in the country, particularly with orphans. Since 2003, Rolling Hills has sent teams to Moldova to minister to orphans and, through JMI, have cared for and supplied orphanages and halfway houses. We will again send two teams to visit ministries in Moldova.
3 exciting themes
Turn
JUNE 3-7
Super Hero Week
JUNE 17-21 Rock Star Week
Cthhease JULY 8-12
Beach Party Week
5
KIDS MINISTRY
Family
Dedication
Warm
On Sunday, January 27, Rolling Hills’ Preschool Ministry had the opportunity to dedicate 14 beautiful babies to the Lord. It was a precious time of prayer and recognition of life verses and challenges for families and friends. A large crowd gathered in the Auditorium in support of these children and their families. Among some of the highlights were family pictures of each baby with their parents and siblings, along with a prayer over them by Nic Allen and challenges given by Senior Pastor Jeff Simmons and Preschool Minister Sara Ingmire. Lots of love and support was shown to those dedicated as family members and friends shared in this special time. We celebrate the lives of these parents and young children as well as the task they are undertaking to raise them according to God’s Word. Our next Family Dedication is May 5 at 3pm at The Warehouse.
by Steve Davis
Parent Forum
Family Worship Night
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20 • 6:15 TO 7:30PM • AUDITORIUM
WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 • 6-7:30PM • AUDITORIUM
If, like many parents, you are nervous at the thought of how salvation relates with kids and how they connect with the idea, then plan to attend the upcoming Parent Forum, Kids & Salvation. This will be a great chance to find answers to questions you’ve long had and learn more about this important topic!
This is a great time to join in worship with all of your family in one room. Kids and students will join the adults in the Auditorium. Don’t pass up this chance for a great family experience!
ROLLING HILLS
Learning Center @ the WareHouse
4
Their Hearts
Where Kids
Giggle,
Wiggle and Grow
Last December 27, 21 volunteers from Rolling Hills Community Church, GracePointe Community Church and a few friends from near and far, packed 700 pounds of new warm clothes, and headed for the frozen, snow-laden country of Moldova. Their mission was to bring the fullness of Christmas to the orphaned and abandoned children who were left behind in their boarding school with nowhere else to go and no family with whom to celebrate the holidays. The journey was not an easy one for our emissaries of grace. The weather in the northeast U.S. was uncooperative and flights were being cancelled and delayed, impacting our intrepid team’s travel. After an unanticipated overnight in Atlanta and hours of negotiating for an alternative flight, the group finally arrived at their destination and began a week of “true and undefiled religion,” visiting “orphans in their distress.” There are very few things that compare to encounters with children who have no family and who can number their worldly possessions on one or two hands. While we pity them in the same measure that we delight in giving to them, we are moved by how little they require to be happy and by how grateful they are to receive the gifts we bring. To those of you who donated to the “WARM THEIR HEARTS” clothes collection in December, know that your gifts mean so much more than something new and warm to wear. For the ones left behind and languishing in impersonal orphanages with no parents or relatives who will claim them, to put on your gifts is akin to wrapping themselves in someone’s love. For an orphan, putting on a new pair of gloves or a scarf or warm socks or any of the other items provided in love is very similar to putting on Jesus. As Paul said in Galatians 3, “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves in Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” And for an orphan, the feeling of being remembered, clothed, included, loved, means – even if for a memorable moment – that there is neither the fatherless nor the motherless. And that matters, to this one, and that one, and that one…all God’s children… and yours!
Monday and Wednesday from 9am to 2pm. REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR FALL 2013 SCHOOL YEAR. Find out more at www.rollinghillscommunity.org or contact Kelly Burton at kelly@rollinghillscommunity.org.
13
Welcome
Sara Ezell
Benefit Concert
APRIL 18, FROM 7-8:15PM AT ROLLING HILLS
14
William Guice by Sara’s brothers, Chase and Jason Ezell Have you ever been exhausted to the point your body just says, “I’ve had it!”? Your bones and joints ache; your body just can’t go any further. Fortunately, after some time and rest (and maybe a few Advil), you bounce back. And before you know it, you’re ready for action. It’s go time again. Until recently, Sara Ezell has been familiar with this routine. Even though she doesn’t run, or ride bikes, or lift weights, her body has its own way of becoming exhausted. Sara has Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), a rare genetic bone disease sometimes referred to as Brittle Bone Disease. For people with OI like Sara, it’s like being a 41-year-old woman with 41-year-old organs inside a five-year-old skeleton – and a fragile skeleton at that. Inside, it’s a constant workout, a daily marathon. After a lifetime of more broken bones that we can count (the effect of OI) and internal organs that are constantly squashed into a frame that can hardly hold them, Sara is just not able to work full time any longer. And for someone like Sara who is wired to go, go, go, this is a major bummer. All of her professional career, post-graduate school from Vanderbilt, has been devoted to teaching, building, encouraging and pushing young people. It’s been her ministry as much as vocation. In this next season for Sara, the loss of full-time income, as well as managing nearly constant pain, poses many challenges. Sara would call it “just a hiccup.” That’s how she’s always viewed OI. But one particular need is to keep her condo, her sanctuary. It’s her safe place, a place of rest, calm and comfort. It’s also fully accessible for her wheelchair and walker, and is three floors away from her guardian angel, our mom. We are a family that runs on hope. Just a drop of it is like rocket fuel for us. If we could pay off Sara’s mortgage ($75,000) that’s a lot of rocket fuel! Sara’s oxygen, medications, accessible van…all under control. But her sanctuary…we can’t lose that. You can help, and we need it. Join us Thursday night, April 18, from 7-8:15pm at Rolling Hills for a night of worship, celebration and special music from Ginny Owens, three-time Dove Award winner (among many others). We truly believe if we lock arms for Sara and boldly go to our Father with big hairy needs, He listens, and moves. We believe! Be hope for Sara. Join us, give, stay updated at facebook.com/behopeforSara.
We are excited to announce that William Guice is our new Adult Discipleship Pastor. William is married to Meredith, and they have three children: Arden (15), Aubrey (11) and Abram (10) – and they have been around RH for some time. William brings a wealth of experience having served in several pastoral roles in Louisiana and Tennessee. He has a Master’s Degree from Fuller Theological Seminary and will complete his Doctorate of Missiology there in August of this year. Be sure to give him a warm welcome to our staff!
RHCC Mobile APPs Rolling Hills Community Church App Now you can connect with Rolling Hills wherever you are by downloading the RHCC App. View live sermons, browse our sermon archives, connect with staff, see a listing of upcoming events, and much more! Just search “Rolling Hills Community Church” from the iTunes App Store or Android Marketplace.
Kids Ministry App Are you the proud parent of a preschooler, child or student at Rolling Hills? Well now, thanks to the RH Family Ministry mobile app, you can stay in touch with what they are learning wherever you are! The app is divided into three main sections - Preschool, Kids and Students. Each section provides age specific resources for your child and valuable tools to help you, the parent, stay engaged with the spiritual development of your child and build on the truths we teach on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. Download the app for FREE today by visiting the iTunes App store or Android Marketplace and searching for "Rolling Hills Community Church."
Ways to Serve! For additional information on any of the opportunities below, please contact Laura Chapman, Connections Minister. Preschool Ministry Teacher When: Sundays, 9:15-10:40am or 10:40am-12:15pm Event Camera Operators When: Sundays, 9am-12:15pm *We will train and educate Event Lighting/Projection When: Sundays, 8am-12:15pm
Greeter / Host Team Sundays: 9-9:45am, 10:30-11:15am or 12:30-12:45pm Band Musician Keyboards/Synth, Cello, Vocalists & other instruments Assessment/Audition required When: Sundays, 7am-12:15pm Parking Team When: Sundays, 8:30-9:45am or 10:30-11am & 12-12:30pm 3
Contents
Letter from Jeff
Welcome William Guice...............3 Mobile APPS...................................3 Ways to Serve ...............................3 Kids Ministry...................................4 WareHouse Kids Camp.................5 Student Ministry.............................6 College & Young Adult Ministry...7 Volunteer Spotlight.......................7 Easter Happenings....................8-9 Local Missions.............................10 Daddy Daughter Ball Recap.....11 Father & Son Bowl Recap...........11 Make Justice Personal................12 Upcoming Mission Trips..............12 Warm Their Hearts.......................13 Sara Ezell Benefit Concert..........14 Luminous.....................................15 Saturday Serve............................15 Communitas...............................15 Church Picnic..............................15
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 Easter is the greatest time of the year for every Christ-follower. The death, burial and ultimate resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, means everything for us changed. Death is no longer final; we will see our loved ones once again and spend eternity with God. This month, we have the amazing privilege to celebrate Easter together – the day Christ defeated death and gave us hope and life! I encourage you to prepare your heart for this special time. On March 29, we will journey to the cross at our Via Crucis (the way of the cross) Good Friday experience. On Saturday morning, March 30, is Eggspedition (including a family worship time). Then on Easter Sunday morning, we will worship and celebrate our risen Savior! I am so excited to share this Easter with you! Following Easter, we are launching a brand new Sunday morning series called, “Focus.” We are all so busy and involved in very worthwhile things, but many of us feel stressed with the pressure of life. Instead of living from one appointment to the next, what if we focused on what really matters? Instead of a lamp with scattered light, we could be a laser. This will be a powerful and timely series as we dive deep into God’s Word from 1 John. In addition to Sunday worship, I want to encourage you to take a next step of faith. Maybe for you it is baptism; maybe it is joining the church and partnering with God’s people here at Rolling Hills; maybe it is being a part of a Small Group where you can share life with others; maybe it is a mission trip to Moldova, Brazil, Kenya or India; or maybe it is serving locally through Saturday Serve or the Path Project. Whatever it is, don’t sit comfortably on the sidelines – get in the game. Be part of what God is doing and watch your spiritual life come alive! Church, I love what God is doing here at Rolling Hills! We are truly a part of something very special. Praise God for what He has accomplished these first 10 years, and let’s get ready to see what He will do in us and through us in the years to come! Blessings on you and your family today!
Luminous It’s almost time for our second Luminous conference. Anyone from a variety of leadership, creative arts, communications and ministries is invited to attend to be inspired and encouraged. We have an amazing lineup this year. Ian Morgan Cron, Makoto Fujimura, Glenn Packiam, Over the Rhine, Michael W. Smith, and many others will be with us. The keynote sessions and workshops will provide inspiration and revelation in a creative and encouraging environment for leaders, artists and communicators from around the globe. We are offering an extreme discount of 80% off for RHCC attendees, partners and leaders. Enter rhccFRIENDS (case sensitive) at http:// luminous13.eventbright.com SOON to reserve your registration. This includes Wednesday evening through Friday afternoon sessions (snacks, lunch and all event activities).
Saturday
Serve
Saturday Serve is a bi-monthly opportunity for you, your family or Small Group to come together and serve in the community. Each Saturday Serve starts with a kick-off celebration at the church at 9am. From there, participants meet with their assigned group and head out into the community. Each group is finished by noon. Saturday Serve has age-appropriate service opportunities for kids, students and adults. It is recommended to pre-register as you will be notified in advance of your team placement and what to prepare for the day. Walk-up participants are always welcome, and we place walk-up participants in groups that have space. You can register online.
Communitas, RHCC’s own ministry training school, is still going strong. The class recently completed a survey of Hermeneutics (the study of the Bible and its context), in which they took a close look at defining the gospel as well as the context surrounding major biblical events. Missions is the current topic of study as Communitas draws nearer to a mission trip to Brno, Czech Republic, in May. During the weeklong trip, the class will work with the Roma people, better known as gypsies. The Roma adhere strongly to their cultural heritage, causing them to often be ostracized by the nations in which they live. Please pray for God’s blessing on this class and the trip. If you would like to make a financial contribution to the trip, go to www.rollinghillscommunity.org/communitas.
Church Picnic Our annual church picnic is coming up on Sunday, April 28, at Deer Run Retreat. Our picnic has always been a great time to enjoy a meal and some fun together. Mark your calendars and keep an eye out for more information!
2
15
ROLLING HILLS COMMUNITY CHURCH P.O. Box 681147 • Franklin, TN 37068-1147 • www.rollinghillscommunity.org Return Service Requested.
RH LIFE ROLLING
HILLS
COMMUNITY
CHURCH
SPRING 2013
WAYS TO
SERVE P. 3
EASTER
HAPPENINGS P. 8-9
UPCOMING
MISSION TRIPS P. 12
SARA EZELL
BENEFIT CONCERT P. 14