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THE

BRANCH OUT

HELPING PEOPLE BECOME , GROW , AND LIVE AS DISCIPLES OF JESUS FOR THE GLORY OF GOD AND THE GOOD OF ALL.

SERVICE TIMES & LOCATIONS

FARMERS BRANCH

SUNDAYS 9:00 AM 10:45 AM

3035 Valley View Ln. Farmers Branch, TX 75234

VISTA RIDGE

THURSDAYS 7:00 PM

SUNDAYS 9:00 AM 10:45 AM 3601 Huffines Blvd. Carrollton, TX 75010

NOTE FROM OUR TEACHING MINISTER

This is our twenty-fifth year with The Branch, and Tara and I are as excited and hopeful as ever for us a church. We’ve been extraordinarily blessed to have raised our sons in this community of Jesus-followers. And we have been raised ourselves, spiritually-speaking, by many mentors of faith here.

In this issue you’ll be introduced to our new executive minister, David Grant, and his wife Julie. One of the things David said recently greatly resonated with me. “We are inspired in large gatherings, but we grow in circles.”

Jesus calls us not just into a relationship with Him but a relationship with others who gather around Him. None of us are meant to go about our journey alone. It’s my hope that every one of you has a sense of who is in your “circle.” And if you don’t feel like you have one, we want to do whatever we can to help you find yours!

Grace and Peace, Chris

Scan here to see more event details.

IMPORTANT DATES

Check out “ What’s Happening ” at thebranch.org or in The Branch app to see more events and register!

DAYS DATES EVENT

SUN 2/2

BRANCH VISION UPDATE AT FARMERS BRANCH

SUN 2/9 BABY BLESSING

SUN 2/16

FRI-SAT 2/28- 3/2

BRANCH SENIORS VALENTINE’S LUNCHEON

BRANCH YOUTH PALENTINES

BRANCH YOUTH GALENTINES

FRI-SAT 3/7 & 8 MEN’S EVENT

FRI 3/21 NIGHT OF WORSHIP AT FARMERS BRANCH

SAT 3/29

BRANCH KIDS FAMILY EVENT

FRI & SAT 4/4 & 5 SPRING WOMEN’S EVENT AT FARMERS BRANCH

SUN 4/13 PALM SUNDAY BRANCH KIDS LEAD WORSHIP

FRI 4/18 GOOD FRIDAY SERVICES

SAT 4/19 EASTER PARTIES

SUN 4/20 EASTER SUNDAY

SUN 5/18

BRANCH YOUTH GRADUATE SUNDAY

SUN 6/8 BRANCH UNIVERSITY BEGINS

MON-FRI 6/2-6

MON-FRI 6/16-20

BRANCH YOUTH BRANCH CAMP

BRANCH YOUTH IMPACT HOUSTON

MON-FRI 7/7-11 KIDS CAMP AT VISTA RIDGE SUN 7/13 FAMILY WORSHIP SERVICES NURSERY ONLY

FRI-SAT 7/18-19

BRANCH YOUTH JUMP INTO YOUTH

New to The

Branch?

STARTING POINT

You were designed to be a part of a church family. That’s exactly what The Branch Church is intended to be — your family. A healthy family has common beliefs, purposes, and commitments. That’s why we want to share what we believe and where we’re going.

If you’re new, this is your first step to get more involved.

Whether you’re new or you’ve been here for years, we want everyone to attend this important class. Come to ask questions and hear the philosophy behind why we do what we do. This class will help you to become more involved at The Branch, and will introduce you to others who are also looking to get more involved.

What to Expect

Starting Point is our basic introduction to The Branch Church family, and is designed to clearly explain who and what our church is, as well as the next steps for getting more involved and active in our church family. At the end of Starting Point, you can decide whether to complete the process by becoming a member, or to wait and decide at another time. No pressure whatsoever. We want you to be comfortable with whichever you choose.

Starting Point is typically the first Sunday of every month, and you can register on our “What’s Happening” page at thebranch.org or in The Branch app.

meet david & julie grant

We are delighted to welcome David Grant as our new executive minister, who joins us alongside his wonderful wife, Julie. With over three decades of ministry experience, David brings a wealth of wisdom and innovative leadership to our church family.

Throughout his journey in ministry, David has served in dynamic congregations including Perimeter Church in Atlanta, Irving Bible Church in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and 12Stone Church in Atlanta. His impactful work has included leading next-generation ministries and pioneering a nationwide house church movement that has touched countless lives.

David’s heart beats for equipping churches to fulfill their mission of making disciples. His warm, relational approach has proven invaluable in developing strong leaders and creating ministry opportunities that beautifully weave together both spiritual growth and practical service.

When he’s not serving the church, David finds his greatest joy in family life. He and Julie have built a beautiful legacy over their 35 years of marriage, blessed with four children and ten grandchildren.

Together, they cherish time spent hiking, embarking on family adventures, and creating precious memories with their loved ones.

David began his role with us in January, so please take a moment to introduce yourself and help us give him and Julie the warmest of welcomes to our church family.

AN 11-WEEK DISCIPLESHIP EXPERIENCE

THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEY

Rooted is an 11-week, group-based experience designed to help you develop Christ-centered rhythms, fostering a deeper connection with God, the church, and your purpose. If you’re unsure about your next step, Rooted is tailored for you! We’ve heard some incredible testimonies from the hundreds who’ve already participated in this transformative experience at The Branch. New groups will begin this fall, so keep an eye out for your chance to sign up in the “What’s Happening” section of The Branch app, or simply scan below to visit our website.

VISIT OUR “WHAT’S HAPPENING” PAGE

CELEBRATING 111 BAPTISMS IN 2024

Kathryn Barnhill 1/7/24

Kyla Simmons 1/7/24

Annie Wuest 1/8/24

Caitlin Wilson 1/8/24

Arlene Ladd 1/9/24

John Wilson 1/9/24

Meredith Shackleford 1/21/24

Sabrina White 1/21/24

Lilian Escobar 1/28/24

Andres Avelar 2/11/24

Jasper Laney 2/11/24

Joshua Quevedo 2/11/24

Jorge Zalaya 2/11/24

Aaron Norfolk 2/18/24

Luis Lobos 2/25/24

Penny Schroeder 3/5/24

Grace Fournier 3/21/24

Alma Pleitez 3/24/24

Isaiah Dickey 3/24/24

Leah Alcala 3/24/24

Preston Pleitez 3/24/24

Andrew Rivera 3/26/24

Alejandro Rodriguez 3/29/24

Tracy Francis 3/30/24

Brodie Nash 3/31/24

Jarrod Mariano 3/31/24

Jesse Potter 3/31/24

Major Ogilvie 3/31/24

Olivia Wirth 3/31/24

Brielle Knutson 4/7/24

Ella Bonneau 4/7/24

Ethan Vanegas 4/7/24

Mark Sawicki 4/7/24

Chris Hull 4/8/24

Christabelle Alexander 4/8/24

Eileen Hua 4/8/24

Bobby Ibarra 4/21/24

Erin Yeang 4/21/24

Kevin White 4/25/24

Joshua Hamilton 4/26/24

Scott Carman 4/28/24

Jacob Van Dyke 5/6/24

Katelyn Van Dyke 5/6/24

Erika Saldana 5/19/24

Ethan Putnam 5/19/24

Izaac Barrera 5/19/24

Charles Willis 5/26/24

Jason McVey 6/1/24

Aaron Wilson 6/2/24

Heidi Camarena 6/2/24

Abi Rainey 6/9/24

Autumn Velez 6/9/24

Harrison Jones 6/9/24

Isabel Varela 6/9/24

Jake Brooks 6/9/24

Jimmy Latta 6/9/24

Joshua Senase 6/9/24

Matthew Stone 6/9/24

Addison Ragosino 6/12/24

Sawyer Vasquez 6/12/24

Siena Vasquez 6/12/24

Clint Dye 6/23/24

Ella Williams 6/23/24

Becky Klein 6/30/24

Hattie Arthur 6/30/24

Sadie Arthur 6/30/24

Mark Egan 7/1/24

Benjamin Coventry 7/12/24

Sergio Varela 7/14/24

Zachary Street 7/14/24

Harold Dortch 7/21/24

Sebastian Macias 7/28/24

Willie Busuego 7/28/24

Brittney Hopkins 8/12/24

Kimberlee Saenz 8/12/24

Michelle Williamson 8/12/24

Sophia Barrow 8/12/24

Tris Plont 8/12/24

James Thornton 9/8/24

Jason Jacobs 9/9/24

Michelle Meek 9/15/24

Kameron Terry 9/22/24

Adrian Walker 9/29/24

Alexa Espinoza 9/29/24

Brian Myers 10/3/24

Grayson Gordon 10/6/24

Duke Myers 10/10/24

Christopher Richard 10/13/24

Jacolby Austin 10/13/24

Kristin Richard 10/13/24

Justin Medrano 10/20/24

Kevin Bonin 10/20/24

Ruby Thornton 10/20/24

Sam Hillstrom 10/20/24

Jermaine Scourten 10/27/24

Denver Faulkner 11/10/24

Michelle Rincon 11/14/24

Frank Fernandez 11/17/24

William Costlow 11/17/24

Jack Gibbs 11/24/24

Tavares Green 11/24/24

Adrian Leonard 12/1/24

Jalen Scott 12/1/24

Laura Menjivar 12/1/24

Ronnie Terry 12/1/24

Timothy Walsh 12/1/24

Andrew Vann 12/12/24

Donovan Jamison 12/15/24

Finley Bowman 12/15/24

Arthur Hamilton 12/22/24

Cole Taylor 12/28/24

BRANCH KIDS

In Branch Kids, we want kids to become, grow, and live as disciples of Jesus! Working alongside families and volunteers, our goal is for our kids to live lives deeply rooted in His word and the truth of the gospel as they love, serve, lead, and worship. Kids can be a part of it all!

Branch Kids is a highly relational ministry led by loving and caring adult and teen volunteers. Our prayer is that kids draw close to the Lord and build a personal relationship with Jesus. We pray that they know that they have access to the same Holy Spirit as adults, and The Spirit fills them with power, love, and a sound mind. We believe every child that comes to Branch Kids is a child of God: fully seen, known, and loved by their Heavenly Father. Our volunteers are an extension of that love.

It is a great privilege for us to share Jesus with kids on Sunday mornings. We’re seeking to partner and communicate with families because we know that together, we can speak Jesus over the lives of our kids!

If you’re a parent or caregiver, please sign up for Branch Kids texts by texting “kids” to (972) 440-2460. If you’re interested in being a part of our ministry to children, we want to hear from you!

If you’re interested in being a part of our ministry to children, we want to hear from you!

Email kids@thebranch.org

BRANCH YOUTH

Branch Youth (6th - 12th grade) is guiding middle school and high school students to follow the practices and person of Jesus Christ.

We want Branch Youth to be a place where students feel seen, known, and loved by our adult volunteers, but most importantly by Jesus! Most of us remember what it was like in middle school and high school. It’s a trying time of change where our identities begin to form and our beliefs are put to the test. In many ways, it’s the most critical time in a person’s development. It’s often also looked upon as the time we had the most fun.

Branch Youth meets on Wednesdays for games, worship, teaching, and small group time. We want Branch Youth to be a place where students want to be, where they feel like they belong, and where they learn about Jesus and how much He loves them. Throughout the year, we focus on how to practically follow Jesus in our everyday lives. We also do events throughout the year, such as Branch Camp, hang-outs, and retreats for students to have fun while growing closer to each other and to God.

WEEKLY GATHERINGS

Wednesdays

6:00 - 8:00 pm • 6th - 12th Grade

Sundays Farmers Branch: 9:00 am Vista Ridge: 10:45 am

McFarland

WOMEN IN THE WORD

MONDAY NIGHTS • 7:00 PM • VISTA RIDGE

WEDNESDAY MORNINGS • 10:00 AM • FARMERS BRANCH

Life can get pretty hectic, can’t it? Finding those moments of reflection and spiritual growth can be a real challenge in the midst of our busy lives. That’s why we’re inviting you to join our Women in the Word Bible study. It’s not just any study; it’s a vibrant and nurturing community where women like you can deepen their connection with Jesus and grow as disciples.

Getting Closer to the Word:

We’re firm believers that God’s Word is a wellspring of timeless wisdom, guidance, and comfort. Our weekly gatherings are all about diving into scripture together, uncovering its hidden treasures, and figuring out how those truths fit into our everyday lives. With engaging discussions and heartfelt prayers, you’ll find yourself growing spiritually, deepening your faith, and discovering God’s purpose for your life.

Building Friendships and Faith:

Women in the Word isn’t just about studying the Bible; it’s about building genuine connections and friendships. This is a time and place where you can freely chat about your questions, share your struggles, and celebrate your victories. Together, we lift each other up, creating bonds that extend way beyond our meetings. It’s like a cozy, judgment-free zone where you can be your true self while you walk the path of discipleship in Jesus.

NEED HELP DEALING WITH GRIEF?

Our GriefShare support group is here for you.

There’s no “right way” to grieve

Feeling angry or full of regret? Are you depressed and wondering how to heal? Do you walk around in a mental fog? All this is normal. And while your grief journey is unique, you’ll find many grieving people are facing the same struggles. And others who’ve gone before you can help.

Grief cannot be rushed

You may wish you could bypass the difficult emotions or push down the pain. Or maybe others are pressuring you to “get up and move on.” But healing from grief and loss requires you to go through your grief. We have resources that can help you find relief and stability.

Finding support is crucial

Grief is a journey that shouldn’t be traveled alone. You may feel like no one understands and be tempted to isolate, but as counselor David Bueno Martin says, “Healing happens in the context of finding others who can help you.” A GriefShare group is a safe place to find support.

Questions? Reach out to our Care & Recovery Minister, Ryan Rainey: rrainey@thebranch.org

for the hurt of separation and divorce.

Divorce is one of the most painful experiences you can face. So many emotions. So many challenges. You don’t have to go through it alone. DivorceCare offers support, answers, and practical tools to help you manage the many stresses of separation and divorce, and find healing.

DivorceCare Topics

Emotional healing

• Deep hurt

• Anger

• Grief & depression

• Loneliness

• Fears & anxiety

Overcoming relationship struggles

• Family & friends after divorce

• Conflict

• Forgiveness

• Interacting with your ex Handling practical challenges

• Single living

• Financial & legal issues

• Moving forward

DivorceCare is a 13-week support group that helps you heal from the pain of separation or divorce. The experience involves three main components designed to help in that healing.

Video seminar

• 30-minute video

• Practical advice and insights from divorce recovery experts

• Real-life stories from people who have been where you are

Focused support group

• Discussing what you learned from the video and how to apply it

• Sharing how each group member is doing (only if you want to share)

Participant guide

• Exercises and articles for recovery and personal growth

• Parenting tips

• Practical tools to help you heal

Questions? Reach out to our Care & Recovery Minister, Ryan Rainey: rrainey@thebranch.org

Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered recovery program that meets EVERY week — rain or shine! We all have hurts, habits, and hang-ups, and CR is a program designed to help you find freedom. Come hear testimonies, find encouragement, and step forward in faith THIS WEEK!

“Finding camaraderie and support when you’re going through some of the worst times in life is what keeps me coming back every week. Having accountability partners and a sponsor to consistently help me navigate life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups roots me stronger in my faith and my life’s purpose. I’ve learned so much in this program that I can apply to every situation life throws at me!” - Niki Wight

CR addresses all types of habits, hurts, and hang-ups. Some recovery programs deal only with alcohol or drugs or other single issues. But Celebrate Recovery is a “large umbrella” program under which a limitless number of issues can be dealt with.

We are seeing hopeless marriages restored and people set free from all kinds of sinful habits, hangups, and hurts as they allow Jesus to be Lord in every area of their lives. To God be the glory! We’ll be praying for you.

Questions? Reach out to our Care & Recovery Minister, Ryan Rainey: rrainey@thebranch.org

JOIN US AT CELEBRATE RECOVERY

TUESDAYS • 7:00 PM THE BRANCH CHURCH - VISTA RIDGE 3601

BRANCH MARRIAGES

A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO BUILDING HEALTHY, CHRISTCENTERED MARRIAGES THAT RESULT IN STRONG FAMILIES

MARRIAGE MENTORING

Marriage mentoring identifies, equips, and empowers couples to disciple other married couples by consistently spending time together as couples, sharing life experiences, and learning more about God and His design for marriage together.

YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS NEEDED

We are in need of qualified mentor couples who can facilitate and shepherd other couples. If you know of a couple who would be good at this, please visit thebranch.org/marriages and send us your recommendations.

BRANCH WORSHIP

TECH TEAMS • WORSHIP TEAMS

We’d love to meet you!

We are always looking for dedicated people to join our worship ministry team. If you have a desire to serve our church community, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

Whether you are a vocalist, instrumentalist, have experience in sound or lighting, OR NONE OF THE ABOVE, I would love to hear from you! Our ministry is not only about music, but also about creating an atmosphere of worship that encourages our congregation to connect with God on a deeper level. If you are interested in getting involved, send me an email or fill out the form at thebranch.org/serve

I look forward to hearing from you!

Joshua Hobbs

Worship Ministry Director