AUGUST SEPTEMVOLUME 1 1
connection volume 11 • number 6
A bimonthly publication, copyright © 2009 Stonebriar Community Church, Frisco, Texas. The material within may not be disseminated in any manner without permission. All inquiries, comments, suggestions, and story ideas should be directed to Jennifer Brown, director of Communications, at 469-252-5200 or by e-mail to communications@stonebriar.org.
senior pastor
Chuck Swindoll
director of resource ministries director of communications
Carol Spencer
gearing up by les fleetwood, pastor of connecting and equipping ministries How was your summer? Did you take a trip? Visit the lake? I guarantee if you had couples over for a cook-out, the men huddled around the grill. If it’s spearing meat over flames with oversized goofy forks, guys are on it! There was actually only one cook, but the others made contributions.
Jennifer Brown
senior graphic designer
Kenny Courtenay
writer/designer
Susan Jacobson
online edition editor
Lynn Wilson
volunteer editors and writers
Caren Austen Mary Garner Shelly King Bob Vestal
encouraging all people to pursue a lifelong, joyous relationship with Jesus Christ stonebriar community church financial report for the fiscal year ended june 30, 2009 With God’s blessing upon His generous people, we ended the year with 99.95% of projected revenues while holding expenses to 86% of expectations.
general fund budget: $10,000,000 99.95%
86%
income
expense
Then one relaxing evening you notice a TV commercial reminding you that it is time to buy paper and pens, backpacks, and new clothes, and before you can say, “Make my steak medium rare,” you realize fall has arrived. Schools gear up, kids gear up, even church programming gears up, and our lives get wound up. We’re out the door, running through our day. In all this running around, two missteps can occur. One, we decide to skip gearing up at church because we’re busy elsewhere. Or two, we gear up so much at church, doing every activity possible, that busyness becomes an end to itself. While it is difficult to balance, both missteps occur when we substitute other things for true worship of and service to God. Jesus says when the things that matter to Him become the things that matter to us, and we pray about everything, our anxiety will be replaced with His peace, perspective, and provision (Matthew 6:25–34). So, how can we achieve a spiritual mindset in the midst of all the things we have to do? Paul says start each day by giving God access to all we are and everything we do, allowing His Word to infiltrate and change our worldly patterns of thinking (Romans 12:1–2). The choice is ours: gear up in our own strength and wear out from worry, or gear up by giving ourselves up to God’s agenda and His strength in us.
building fund contributions: $2,798,857 average attendance: 4,054 adults in worship
online
4801 legendary drive, frisco, texas 75034 469.252.5200
www.stonebriar.org
on the cover: Tom, Justin, and Hope Monte
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2009 3
community impact hear the heart behind SCC’s newest ministry and find out what starts august 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
crown financial ministries find out what scripture says about your finances and get to know other stonebriar couples . . . . . . . . . 10
kids summer scrapbook VBS, elementary camp, sports camps, and thousands of stories and pictures to share . . . . . 12
5
events calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
new semester opportunities activities, events, and classes all begin in august and september. get the details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
a moment with taylor gardner this care ministries pastor is always there when you need someone the most . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
not just another men’s weekend
7
are you considering going on the men’s retreat? read testimonies from past attendees . . . . . . . . . . 7
four volunteers inspire ministry the idea for SCC’s new reach up, reach out ministry all started with an e-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
two ministries, a serving focus missions pastor tom hayes shares what living out the great commission means . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
more stories at www.stonebriar.org
3 | connection
Ready or not, the back to school season is here. For Stonebriar, this means new programs and opportunities for all ages. Through new classes, fellowships, bible studies, and activities, we hope you will build new relationships and deepen your walk with Christ this semester.
In addition to Sunday morning worship services at 9:30 and 11:15, one way to build meaningful spiritual friendships while integrating God’s Word in your life is through Adult Fellowships, offered at 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m., and 5 p.m. If Sundays are too busy, consider joining a Home Adult Fellowship. These are groups of 8–12 people that meet in homes throughout the week. Starting August 23 (Promotion Sunday) the halls will be buzzing as families reappear after the summer break. Promotion Sunday is the day kids advance to their new classes. Weekly programming is available for newborn through senior high at 9:30 and 11:15 a.m. Sunday evening, August 23, Awana resumes. Awana is a weekly discipleship program for kids ages three years through fourth grade on Sundays, 5–6:30 p.m. and Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m. Preteen (Junction 56) and Junior High (Fusion) students also meet Wednesdays 6:30–8 p.m. High School (Critical Mass) resumes Tuesday, September 8 at 7 p.m. Not only is Wednesday a busy night for children and youth, but it is a great night for men and women at Stonebriar. SCC’s Men’s Bible Fellowship with Steve Farrar and our Women’s Wednesday Bible Studies resume September 16. As our church continues to grow, the need for volunteers in every area expands. Consider getting involved as a volunteer this semester. Stop by the ProjectServe kiosk on Sundays, or e-mail serving@stonebriar.org.
www.stonebriar.org | 4
hen Sue and Bill Davis received the phone call that their 27-year-old son, Jason, had been in an accident and was on the way to the hospital, Taylor Gardner, Associate Pastor of Care Ministries at Stonebriar, was one of the first people they called for support. After they learned of Jason’s death, Taylor “took us by the hand and quietly, graciously took care of everything,” shared Sue. “He didn’t try to give us ‘pat’ answers, but he put feet to his faith by supporting us through it all, sometimes without a word.” Taylor says a situation such as this is one of the most challenging he faces. “It’s important in these circumstances to be able to share in a meaningful way, with kindness and gentleness, how the Lord has a plan for every life no matter how short or long,” Taylor shared. Though sometimes personally painful, ministering to those who face uncertainties in life is what he loves and feels called to do. Taylor believes that his spiritual gifts of pastoring, teaching, and encouragement have prepared him well for service in this ministry. “Each of these,” according to Taylor, “is an essential part of ministering to those who are going through various kinds of stressful tests. I am called to reassure people of the Lord’s care, and comfort them with His love.” When he is unsure of the individual’s relationship with the Lord, Taylor looks for ways to help people understand God’s desire for their lives. Jason’s death was not the first or the last crisis that brought Taylor to Sue and Bill’s side. There have been hospitalizations for serious illnesses and the death of another family member. “Taylor is just the person we needed to walk through these times with us. He is genuine, tender, and compassionate. During visits in the hospital, he often made us laugh, which was just what we needed,” said Sue. Bill added, “He’s such a humble man. He would never take credit for anything he does, yet he offers real care and concern to so many.” A comment frequently heard about Taylor is that he’s like a willow: loaded up with the cares and concerns of many, he bends but never breaks. As an “on-call” pastor, Taylor’s activities vary from week to week, depending on the number of funerals he is called on to officiate and the number of homebound SCC members who need a visit. Though most people would find a schedule like this challenging, Taylor says he loves it. Whether attending a birth or a death, he says, “I am given an awesome sense of God’s presence, especially if the individual is a believer.” One of the ways this pastor stays encouraged is by participating in SCC’s monthly Cancer Encouragement Group. “These folks share personally and take very seriously the commitment to pray for and encourage one another. Their loving care for each other reminds me that this is exactly how the Lord wants the church to function.” He adds, “This group is not discouraging or depressing—the group meeting is the highlight of my month.” Taylor sums up his thoughts by saying, “One clear conviction I’ve developed through involvement in this ministry is that whether a circumstance is relatively minor or ends in death, the Lord intends and desires that we learn more about His faithfulness in every trial. ‘Faithful is He who calls you’” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
5 | connection
www.stonebriar.org | 6
not just another men’s weekend by bob vestal, contributing writer Men, if it can’t be heaven, then what could be better than a weekend in the Piney Woods of East Texas? Now is the time for you to plan to attend the Men’s 2009 Fall Retreat, October 9–11, at the shores of Pine Cove near Tyler, Texas. “Words simply cannot express how refreshing it is to get away from the world for a few days and enjoy the fellowship of men who truly understand what is important in life, share my values, and love my Lord,” says Jeff Hurst, a Men’s Retreat alum. “The teaching and worship are always excellent and there is ample downtime to suit the interests of everyone.“ Dr. Darrell Bock, Research Professor of New Testament Studies and Professor of Spiritual Development and Culture at Dallas Theological Seminary, will be the featured speaker for the weekend retreat. Dr. Bock is a former president of the Evangelical Theological Society and serves as corresponding editor-at-large for Christianity Today. The retreat is more than just another weekend trip with a bunch of guys from church. The fun, fellowship, and Bible teaching can be a life-changing experience that will strengthen your daily walk with the Lord. Plus, it’s a relaxing setting that will “help men get better connected with our church and, possibly, make a few new friends,”stated George Sun, who attended last year’s retreat and is planning to attend this year. While there are many excuses for not attending this fall (economy, job stress, family stress, etc.), “it is time, more so than ever, for us Christian men to pull together and to support each other in these difficult times,” George said. To register for this year’s retreat, complete the application at www.stonebriar.org [Keyword: Mens Retreat]. If you have questions, contact Men’s Ministries at 469-252-5337, or e-mail mensministries@stonebriar.org. Check-in at the camp begins Friday, October 9, at 5 p.m. The retreat will conclude on Sunday, October 11, around 11 a.m.
7 | connection
After experiencing job loss, Steven Shaw contacted Stonebriar’s ProjectServe Director, Teresa Kay, about volunteering at the church. In this same message, Steven expressed interest in helping other people in similar situations, and asked if the church would consider having a job-loss encouragement ministry.
Chris Edgmon
The idea garnered a lot of interest and even more so after Michelle the idea was Gardner pitched to Care Ministries’ pastor Steve Fischer. “My immediate response was ‘yes.’ What a great way to minister to people today!” Steve said. Plans quickly unfolded for this job-loss ministry as more people expressed interest in serving and participating. From this group, four volunteers became part of the Reach Up, Reach Out leadership team: Steven Shaw, Michelle Gardner, Oscar Velezmoro, and Chris Edgmon. As part of the leadership team, these four people helped the Stonebriar,
fall courses This semester’s classes are designed to prepare you to live out your faith beyond the church walls in an authentic way. Courses are short in length and center around a specific topic. Find more details online by searching with designated web keywords.
Perspectives on the World Christian Movement This fall, Stonebriar will offer a new opportunity for people interested in missions. This 14-week missions course is designed to show you how to use your skills and passions to glorify God—no matter your location or vocation. [Web Keyword: Perspectives] staff better understand how to minister to individuals going through job transition or job loss. During this process these volunteers found a new way to minister to others through their own challenging experiences. “It’s been heartwarming to see how this group came together, and how they bonded. Each person has experienced job loss, and has a real heart for other people who are going through a similar situation,” Teresa shared. Today, Steven, Michelle, Oscar, and Chris continue to play an active role in the weekly Reach Up, Reach Out meeting, held each Friday morning at 7. They have gained a better understanding of what it means to serve together while waiting and trusting in the Lord’s comfort and peace. Are you interested in serving at Stonebriar? Want to know more about Reach Up, Reach Out? Visit our website and search [Keyword: ProjectServe or RURO].
September 1–December 8 6:30 p.m.
The Life You’ve Always Wanted Spend six weeks this fall learning and practicing the spiritual disciplines of the Christian life. [Web Keyword: Equipping]
September 20–November 1 9:30 a.m.
Foundations for Marriage An eight–week course specifically for couples considering marriage. [Web Keyword: FFM]
September 20–November 15 11:15 a.m. Learn more or register for classes online:
www.stonebriar.org
coming soon . . .
stonebriar library! Plans are now underway for a Stonebriar church library. Contact Abbi at 469-252-5326 for more details or to get involved.
www.stonebriar.org | 8
“The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.” These words were spoken by Hudson Taylor, missionary to China in the 1800s, and namesake of Tom Hayes’ one-year-old son, Hudson. In July, Tom stepped into Mark Young’s previously-held position as the Pastor of Missions. During the transition process, this position expanded to include SCC’s new Community Impact ministry. Now, as Tom oversees both ministries, Hudson Taylor’s words bring even more meaning when it comes to encouraging people to get involved and serve both globally and locally.
“God is doing great things around the world, and through these two ministries Stonebriar can be a part of His work. One of my mentors always said, ‘The greatest joy in Christianity is found in serving God,’” Tom shared. “I know some people have international interests and are intrigued by other cultures, while others have local interests and have a heart for their neighbors.” Through international (Missions) and local (Community Impact) ministries, I hope everyone will live out the Great Commission.” While it is important to be active “where we are,” Tom also believes there is a biblical mandate to “reach all people in all
community impact “And if you give yourself
to the hungry and
satisfy the desire of
the afflicted, then
your light will rise
in darkness and your gloom will
become like midday.” —Isaiah 58:10
9 | connection
Community Impact is all about showing the love of Christ to those around us. We do this by creating front door opportunities for people to experience community here at Stonebriar as well as reaching out and serving our community. Front door opportunities are events where people can come and begin to get to know the church and our Stonebriar family. These are perfect for inviting un-churched friends, neighbors, or co-workers. We also desire to show Christ’s love as a church family by becoming more intentional and serving in our local homeless shelters, help centers, pregnancy centers, the Clothe-a-Child campaign, sports outreach, and other ministry opportunities within the city of Frisco. One way we are pursuing these service opportunities is through Beyond These Walls, a new Community Impact group that will begin meeting on August 23.
learn to manage your finances biblically by sixto & rita molina stonebriar life group leaders
places.” Stonebriar will continue to pursue international opportunities in a holistic nature, meaning ministries such as evangelism, compassion ministries, leadership training, and mass communication will always be priorities. September 1, Stonebriar will begin a 14-week missions course called Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, designed to encourage people to serve no matter their location or vocation. Through SCC’s Community Impact ministry, led by pastoral leader Karen Hawkins, the church will begin to have a stronger presence in Frisco. Read the story below to learn how SCC is reaching out to our local community.
by karen hawkins
Beyond These Walls will focus on ministering pastoral leader, community impact
outside the walls of this church. This group is open to people from all ages and walks of life. We will meet each Sunday beginning August 30 in Portable A at 12:45 p.m., after the second service for a time of worship, Bible devotion, prayer, and outreach planning. Our guiding Bible verse is Isaiah 58:10. There are so many needs right here in our own backyard. It is exciting to think of all the ways Stonebriar can serve and make an impact in our community. If you have ideas or would like to get involved, join us at 12:45 p.m. on Sundays, contact Karen at 469-252-5241, or e-mail karenh@stonebriar.org. Find out more about Community Impact on the Stonebriar website [Keyword: CommunityImpact].
Have the economic trials and concerns we’re facing today affected your spiritual walk? Would you like to spend time with other Stonebriar couples committed to learning and putting into action God’s plan for your financial life? Now, more than ever, may be the ideal time for you to join a Crown Ministries Biblical Financial Study. A Crown Ministries Biblical Financial Study is a ten-week, in-depth study that shows what Scripture teaches concerning money and possessions. Studies are administered by leaders, like us, here at Stonebriar. As we work through Crown lessons, Life Group participants learn how to handle money “God’s way.” The study is not only about tithing or debt management, but offers a broader picture—God owns it all, a concept taught from 1 Chronicles 29:11–12. Participants are challenged to think and plan for a more peaceful financial future (something many hoped they had done before the current economic upheaval). Over the years, as leaders, we have developed long-lasting friendships with many Stonebriar couples. We’ve journeyed and watched couples strengthen their marriages while discovering a way out of debt. Today, these couples are consistent savers, generous givers, and prudent consumers. Most importantly, they have entered into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ by learning to apply His Word to their finances. We encourage you to investigate and prayerfully consider signing up for a Crown Life Group this fall. Orientation is August 30. Life Groups begin the week of September 13. Find details and registration information at www.stonebriar.org [Keyword: Crown].
www.stonebriar.org | 10
get involved and be an example
singers for children’s and youth choirs Do you often hear your child singing or humming? Maybe they are singing along with EVERY song on the radio. If this sounds familiar, this fall could be the perfect time for your child to learn what it means to praise God in song. Stonebriar offers five choirs, divided by age groups: Pre-K choir for four-year-olds, Kindergarten Choir for five-year-olds, Lower Elementary Choir for first- and second-graders, Upper Elementary Choir for third- through sixth-graders, and Youth Choir for seventh- through twelfth-graders. Children’s Choirs meet Wednesday afternoons at 4:30 p.m., starting September 9. Pre-K choir meets from 4:30–5:30 p.m., and Kindergarten through Upper Elementary Choirs meet from 4:30–5:45 p.m. We sing during Sunday morning worship services several times during the year, present a Christmas concert in December, and a spring musical in April. For more information, please e-mail Francey at franceyk@stonebriar.org, or call 469-252-5251. Stonebriar’s new Youth Choir offers a high-quality choral experience for students while preparing sacred worship music. We meet Thursdays from 5:30–6:30 p.m. in the Choir Room. For more details, contact Misty at 1mmiller@tx.rr.com, or call 972-377-7980. Fall registration forms for the various choirs are available on the Stonebriar website under the Worship tab, or by searching [Keyword: Childrens Choir or Youth Choir].
11 | connection
It is a sweet sight to watch a child learn about Christ and His love for the first time. Even more so, it is an incredible experience to help that child understand what it means to trust Christ. Through relationships developed with volunteer teachers and classroom helpers, many children have a living example of Christ’s love each week at church. This semester, you can be an example for His Kids at Stonebriar. If you are wondering if you can really make a difference or not—you can, and will! SCC’s fall programming begins August 23. We need volunteers in 29 preschool classrooms, 16 elementary classrooms, one preschool large group, and with three elementary large groups. In addition, we need volunteers to lead worship for preschool and elementary, and preteen small group leaders. There are also opportunities to serve on Sunday and Wednesday evenings for Awana and Junction 56. Find out how you can be an example of Christ’s love by contacting Children’s Ministries at 469-252-5245 or by going online [Keyword: Serving or Children].
www.stonebriar.org | 12
Find more events and details or sign up to volunteer at www.stonebriar.org
churchwide
9/1
dr. jeffrey bingham* Chairman of Theological Studies Dallas Theological Seminary
8/9
8/16
9/16
church directory photos sign up for a photo session on sundays or by calling 972-731-8092
labor day stonebriar offices closed
scc 11th anniversary celebration
griefshare support during the grieving process, 6:30–8 p.m.
dr. reg grant*
8/20-9/18
10/24,25
9/16 9/16
dr. stanley toussaint*
soulcare training begins training continues through 11/17
President, The College of Biblical Studies, Houston
Professor of Pastoral Ministries Dallas Theological Seminary
9/7
9/15
dr. jay quine*
Professor of Pastoral Ministries Dallas Theological Seminary
8/23&30
in his time infertility and miscarriage support, 7–9 p.m.
www.stonebriar.org
8/2
AUGUST SEPTEMBER 2009
divorce care divorce care for kids also begins this night
foundations for marriage see class details on page 8
children
web keyword: children
8/23
his kids promotion sunday
8/23,26 awana begins 9/8
preschool pals begins
9/13
child dedication services
community impact
* sunday guest speakers during august
web keyword: community impact
care ministries
8/30
8/2, 9/13
connecting
find more details on page 10
web keyword: care
first sunday at five join us as we pray for our nation at 5 p.m.
8/3, 9/14
cancer encouragement group find comfort and encouragement in meeting with others, 7–8:30 p.m.
13 | connection
beyond these walls
web keyword: connect
9/13
stonebriar membership class registration required, deadline 8/23
equipping
web keyword: equipping
weekly
adult fellowships find class descriptions online or at the information center on sundays
8/30
theology program begins
9/13
crown ministry life groups begin
9/20
the life you’ve always wanted
missions
web keyword: missions
9/1 9/19
web keyword: espanol
weekly
spanish worship service led by pastor Carlos Zazueta, 11:15 a.m., room 241
9/6
shane & shane missions concert 7:30 p.m. tickets are now on sale for $15. [Keyword: ShaneandShane]
preteens
web keyword: preteen
9/9
web keyword: men or women
8/8, 9/12 books and bagels 9:30 a.m. in the guest center
junction 56 begins for students in fifth and sixth grades, 6:30–8 p.m.
reunión de jóvenes del ministerio hispano
men/women
missions banquet 5 p.m., tickets are now on sale. [Keyword: MissionsBanquet]
see class details on page 8
hispanic ministries
perspectives missions class begins see class details on page 8
students
web keyword: students
8/11
hsm freshman boys orientation
8/21
jhm 8th grade girls dinner
9/8
hsm critical mass begins
9/9
jhm fusion begins
9/11
jhm guys night out
8/21–22 women of faith 9/3 9/11
mosaic singles ministry kickoff mom2mom kickoff
9/15
women of grace study begins
9/16
women’s fall bible studies begin
worship & music
online registration [Keyword: Women]
web keyword: worship
9/16
men’s wednesday bible fellowship
8/13,9/3 crescendo open house
9/18
mom2mom bible study friday
10/9–11 men’s retreat [Keyword: MensRetreat]
come learn about SCC’s sanctuary choir thursdays at 6:30 p.m.
9/14
celebration singers rehearsal open to all singers, no auditions. weekly rehearsals, mondays at 6:30 p.m.
www.stonebriar.org |
by tony cammarota
associate pastor, equipping ministries When we are in our 20s, we make some of life’s biggest decisions. What will I do with my college degree? Should I get a master’s degree? Where will I live? Where will I work? Is this job what I really want to do? Is struggling to stay pure really worth it? Should I get married? What do I really believe? Questions about major areas of life permeate the thought life of singles in their 20s. On top of that, there is a pressure that many in this mosaic generation face. We are thrust into a world of new demands and expectations, and we’re not always ready.
11th anniversary celebration! super saturday october 24 11 a.m.–3 p.m. •bounce houses •food•family fun!
anniversary sunday october 25
Enter Mosaic . . . Stonebriar’s new ministry for young single adults in their 20s. Launching Thursday night, September 3, at 7 p.m. in SCC’s Multi-Purpose Room, Mosaic aims to reach this generation with a unique message that challenges and transforms. Every first and third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m., Mosaic will meet as a large group to worship, learn, listen, serve, and have fun. Through community service projects and social activities, our vision is to reach the Frisco community, build relationships, and deepen our walk with Christ. Our heart is not to create a separate worship service, but to minister to singles in their 20s and integrate this group with the larger church body of Stonebriar. Like a mosaic, those in their 20s are putting together the pieces of their lives. We make a beautiful image as we pursue Christ together and separately. Also like a mosaic, when all the pieces are in place, we appreciate the care and creativity of a Designer who, in the end, makes all things beautiful. Join us as we journey together this fall! Since this is a new outreach for Stonebriar, we need your help! Let every single adult in their 20s know about Mosaic! For more information, visit www.stonebriar.org [Keyword: Mosaic], or contact Tony at tonyc@stonebriar.org or 469-252-5354.
join us for sunday worship 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. servicio en español: domingos 11:15 a.m. en salón 241
Chuck Swindoll, senior pastor 4801 legendary drive, frisco, texas 75034 • 469.252.5200 • www.stonebriar.org