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PULSE
Here are some things that we think are imperative to your journey here, as you explore what The Bridge has to offer you and your family.
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Need information? You can find it all in this magazine, on our website, or through our mobile app, “MyBridge.” You can get details on all upcoming events, sign up for classes, and much more!
MISSIONARY SPOTLIGHT 4
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REWIND 5
Stop by Starting Point after the service. Here you will find someone from our church who would like to meet you and answer any questions you may have about our church.
GET CONNECTED 6
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In a large church, the key to making friends and having community is joining a small group. We know you’re busy, so we offer small groups on Sundays at 9:30 and 10:45AM to make the most of your time here.
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Our student’s and kid’s experiences are outstanding. Make sure your kids don’t miss out on the amazing things we have going on just for them.
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WE WANT TO HELP YOU GET TO THE OTHER SIDE, SO CONNECT, GROW, AND SERVE WITH US. // Starting Point is located in the Lobby on the east side of the Worship Center
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Pulse: What can people at our church be praying for? (is there any specific events/activities coming up, any specific people or groups on your heart?) Juan: People can intercede for a move of God across Georgia - for the influence of His Church in Georgia to grow and spread out. Also, pray for just one person that we have daily contact with, and for our influence in their lives towards trusting wholly in Jesus, that we will find favor in relating to people in our small town where we live, as we teach English and serve through the local church. Pulse: What advice would you give to anyone who feels God is calling them to be a missionary (in or out of the country)? Juan: “It is ALL about Jesus - about knowing Him, and
MISSIONARY SPOTLIGHT
joining Him, in grateful obedience, and doing this out of love. Pray. Come to the point in prayer where you tell Jesus you are willing to be/do/go whatever/wherever it is that He wants to plant you. That may be in your hometown, or somewhere else. It may be in your dream job, or through another position where you can broker your life’s anointing and have a larger influence for Jesus. Be willing to serve
JUAN OCASIO Republic of Georgia
and learn new things. Pray and ask Him to help you get out of your comfort zone for the sake of His gospel - He will help you, He does it perfectly. Study and love His Word; take it in. Find a way to take one step forward in what you
Juan and Shirley Ocasio are missionaries to the Republic of
sincerely believe Jesus is leading you into; you can trust Him
Georgia. Arriving in Georgia in 2006, they have made great ef-
to give you further direction, but find a way to take at least
fort to serve this country by teaching English to area univer-
one step.”
sity students and serving the local churches. Below is more about what God is doing through them and in the Republic
Pulse: What kind of ministry do you feel has been the most
of Georgia.
effective there?
Pulse: What made you feel called to go to Georgia?
Juan: “One-on-one relational evangelism is very effective here, whether through teaching English, serving among stu-
Juan: After Shirley and I were married (God was also leading
dents, youth group. I think that this is effective because the
her to serve in world missions) we were praying about where
process of discipleship begins through establishing relation-
and how God wanted to lead us, and we came across the Na-
ships. We have also witnessed a Youth camp conducted by the
tion of Georgia in our search and God touched our hearts.
nationals be a very fruitful ministry.
Pulse: What is one of the biggest lessons God has taught
Pulse: What is one fun fact people may not know about the
you since being there?
people/culture in Georgia?
Juan: “I would have to say lessons in humility and truly learn-
Juan: “Many people may not know the story of how Geor-
ing how to sacrifice of myself in order to reach out to other
gians came to live in Georgia. It goes like this: When God
people and help influence their hearts to trust Jesus. I feel
created the earth and was handing out land to the different
this is an ongoing lesson, and I’m thankful to be learning.”
peoples he had created and designated, the Georgians were late because of having had too good and lively a time together. When they arrived, God had already handed out all the
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land of the earth - all that was left for him to give to the Georgian people was the piece of land that he was keeping apart for himself. So they got it. (This story came about because Georgians love to have a good time and kick back around the table with friends!)” Pulse: Is there anything else you’d like the people at the church to know? Juan: “Yes! There is so much, it’s hard to know where to begin! Our journey of serving among the people of Georgia has opened my eyes and my heart more to the truth that every single follower of Christ is called upon to participate with him in his mission on earth - no exceptions, no excuses… that means me. Now is the time to do something for Jesus. I would also like to add that you all (The Bridge) are a blessing to many people through how you reach out, how you accept others, how you lead, and how you join in the work of reaching people. Thank you for all you are doing, and all you will do!” You can follow the Ocasio’s journey at www.juanandshirley.com
<<REWIND
IN CASE YOU DIDN’T HEAR ABOUT WHAT GOD HAS BEEN DOING AT THE BRIDGE… KIDS CAMP Our Bridge Kids had an amazing week of Kid’s Camp July 13-17. Nearly 70 of our church’s kids attended the camp in Sparks, Oklahoma. Despite the heat, they still had a blast playing games, hanging out with their friends, and most importantly growing in the relationship with God. Needless to say, it was a great week!
BRIDGE FIREWORKS SHOW About 250 from our church came out on Friday, July 03, to watch an incredible firework presentation put on by one of our church members, Johnny Shepperd. There was plenty opportunity to eat and fellowship that evening. No question, it was a great time to spend with friends and family.
CONNECT GROUPS Our Connect Groups launched at the end of June and we had an incredible turnout for them. Over 300 people met in area homes and even at the church to fellowship with one another and build new relationships. Don’t miss this month’s Connect Group August 23rd.
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GET CONNECTED
We believe it is vital that everyone who comes through our doors feels welcomed, connected with God, and connected with great people to do life with! So here we have a ton of avenues available for you to be a part of: small groups, special events, volunteer teams and more. We want to create ample opportunities for you to build incredibly fun, healthy friendships as well as help you flourish in your relationship with God! Your life is valuable! Get yourself connected today!
GROW GROUPS SUNDAYS / 9:30AM
Rm 201 Kenny McGee | 30s-50s How does God’s timeless word apply to us in real life? Lets figure it out together! In this small group, find the support, friendships, encouragement, and Biblical answers that you need to face all that life may bring your way.
Rm 203 Roy Peck | 30s-50s Life can be unpredictable, but life can also be a blast! While the answers may not all be clear, we can definitely make sure you don’t have to go it alone. Join us as we discuss how to navigate life as God intended, applying his Word everyday, and making the most of every minute we have!
Rm 104 Elaine Arnold | 40s-60s Belonging to a community of believers who care is vital to our spiritual lives. Join this discussion based small group, where our priority is creating a positive atmosphere that encourages and challenges one another, so that daily we may implement our faith in God in practical ways.
Rm 202 Ed Damron | 40s-60s Faith moves mountains! We need to trust and believe that God is who He says He is, and He can do what the Bible says He can do! Join us a we explore
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SUNDAYS / 10:45AM scripture and discover how to grow in Christ and learn to handle real life issues with prayer and deep rooted faith in God.
Rm 105 Kathleen Wilcoxson | 30s-60s When you study scripture, you discover that the Word of God truly is living and active! So, don’t miss this opportunity to join others in an in depth study of the Bible that will not only lead to great Biblical discussions, but will also educate and challenge you to a pursue a deeper knowledge of, and maturity in, Christ.
Rm 100 Kenneth McGee | 50s & up Jesus tells us that the Holy Spirit will be our counselor and our guide until He comes again. With that in mind, join this small group as we explore the Bible and discover what it means for us today and how we can daily rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us each day.
Chapel Ken Isom | 50s & up We believe that our Senior Adults are a vital part of our church! This small group provides an opportunity for our “Prime-Timers” (Senior Adults) to fellowship, worship with one another, and engage in Biblical discussion.
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Helen Grace | Women’s Group We say it all the time, “Connected people do life together.” Ladies, come join this small group designed just for you, and together we will discover how God fits into and applies to our busy lives.
Erika Reddick | Women’s Group We say it all the time, “Connected people do life together.” Ladies, come join this small group designed just for you, and together we will discover how God fits into and applies to our busy lives.
SUNDAYS / 10:45AM
TUESDAYS / 9:30AM
Rm 205
PrimeTime
Cody Phillips | Young Adults There is no greater transition in life than the one that leads into adulthood. Join this discussion based small group as we explore how to establish a Biblical foundation to help you navigate that transition.
Ken Isom | Rm 105 Hey senior adults here is an opportunity to get out of the house, have fun, and enjoy fellowship with other senior adults.
Rm 201 Ernie Eidson | Young Families Finding balance in our marriages, families and careers can be tough. Don’t do it alone! Come laugh, fellowship and learn with us as we explore how God wants us to lead our marriages and families safely through all of life’s obstacles.
Rm 105 Rob McClure | All Ages We believe that scripture is incredibly relevant for our daily lives! Join with people of all ages and life stages to explore scripture, verse by verse, and then discuss how to practically apply them to our lives.
WEDNESDAYS / 7:15PM
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NEW GROUP
Linda McNabb | Freedom Classes August 5 Intimacy with the Holy Spirit August 12 Cycle of Inner Healing
STARTING POINT
Boys & Girls Clubs Wednesdays at 7:15PM
SENIOR ADULTS
WOMEN
Fresh Start Sunday, August 30
We offer fun filled programs every week for boys (Royal Rangers) and girls (mPact) that help them grow with God.
Pizza & Movie Night Friday, August 14
Magnolia Luncheon Thursday, August 13
If you’re 55+, join us in the Venue at 6:30PM for pizza and a movie! All you have to do is bring a salad or dessert and be ready to have a great time!
Single ladies over 50, we want to honor you! Join us for lunch at Interurban in Yukon at 11:30AM. We’ll pick up the tab. Sign-up out at Starting Point today!
Have you recently started attending The Bridge? If so, we want to meet you. We know that coming to a new church and trying to navigate through getting plugged in can feel like a daunting task. So come meet our Connections Pastor Doug Wyatt, find out how we do church, and we will break down the easiest ways for you to get connected. It will be offered at 9:30 & 10:45AM in RM102
BGMC Dinner Wednesday, August 26 Looking for a way to grab a quick meal before service and support missions in the process? Join us for our BGMC Dinner out in The Venue at 6:00PM.
TUESDAYS STARTING SEPTEMBER 8
STUDENTS Bridge Students Wednesdays at 7:15PM
GROW HIS 24/7 Bible Discipleship Sunday’s at 10:45AM Come discover the basic spiritual disciplines to help you grow in your relationship with God. ie. how to use and study the Bible, pray, and witness. Happening in RM100.
Living Free Addiction Recovery Wednesday’s at 7:15PM Come and let us help you on the road to overcoming addictions and breaking free from life controlling issues every Wednesday in The End Zone.
Corporate Prayer Sundays at 6:00PM Tuesdays at 9:00AM Join us in the Chapel every week for a time of prayer.
KIDS Bridge Kids Sundays at 8:15/9:30/10:45AM Join us every week for exciting worship, fun games, and Biblical lessons!
Join us for our weekly worship experience in the Bridge Students building.
Sunday Grow Groups Sundays at 10:45AM Get connected in a weekly small group! This time is designed to help your students grow in spiritual disciplines and have questions answered they are asking. 6th-12th Grade Bridge Students Building
WEDNESDAYS STARTING AUGUST 26
YOUNG ADULTS Friday Gathering Fridays at 7:00PM Come enjoy food, fun, and discussion with other young adults. Contact Doug for more info at (405) 204.4569 Leader: Doug & Brittanie Wyatt
MEN Men’s Breakfast Saturday, August 8 Come join us for an amazing breakfast and a short devotional from Rodney Wardwell, our Bridge OKC pastor, at 7:30AM out in The Venue.
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It’s that time of year again, when kids start to trade in their beach towels and bottles of sunscreen for spiral notebooks and number two pencils. When teachers are setting up their classrooms and waiting with great anticipation for the day when they get to meet these new bright-eyed students who will be with them for the rest of the year. It’s exciting, this fresh start to the year. So, in honor of this fresh start, we took the some time to interview students and former students from different generations, about their thoughts on going back to school. Here’s what they said…
was actually our assistant teacher, was my favorite because she was just so hard-working and nice.” Pulse: What was one must-have item in your backpack? Robert Granger, class of 1957: “I didn’t have a backpack, nobody really did at that time, but I brought my lunch everyday so I guess that’s my answer!” Brenda Phillips, class of 1976: “We didn’t really use backpacks all that much, but I do remember having a spiral notebook for every class. I love keeping things organized, and this was a handy way to do that!”
Pulse: Who was your favorite teacher and why? Alex Shell, class of 2017: “I would have to say…gum! I always Robert Granger, class of 1957: “I had a lot of amazing teachers, but the one that sticks out the most in my mind is my 7th and 8th grade teacher. She was a very Godly woman and prayed for us every morning. There was a respect for God and holiness in the classroom at that time that you just don’t see in schools anymore. I wasn’t the greatest student, I just kind of plodded through and did whatever it took to get by, but this teacher always inspired me to put in more effort because she was so encouraging and such a great example to her students.” Brenda Phillips, class of 1976: “I would have to say Mrs. Selby, who was a college professor of mine, was my favorite. She’s the one who got me into accounting in the first place because she believed that there should be women in the workforce. She was the most influential teacher in my life because she told me not to settle with just being a bookkeeper, and encouraged me to go on to be a CPA.” Alex Shell, class of 2017: “I would have to say Mrs. Craig, who 8 / THEBRIDGEAG.ORG
keep some gum in my backpack.” Pulse: What was your favorite subject in school? Robert Granger, class of 1957: “My favorite subject was science, because you got to look at the way things functioned and worked and I always found that to be fascinating.” Brenda Phillips, class of 1976: “I think my favorite subject varied from year to year, because to me whether I liked the class or not depended more upon the teacher than the subject.” Alex Shell, class of 2017: “Math is my favorite subject. No doubt. I like it because it’s challenging to me, it always causes me to really think.” Pulse: What did a typical first day of school outfit look like for you?
Robert Granger, class of 1957: “At that time all the boys would typically wear a polo shirt or a flannel, some slacks, and leather shoes.” Brenda Phillips, class of 1976: “We weren’t allowed to wear slacks when I first started going to school, so I pretty much always had a new dress for the first day of school.” Alex Shell, class of 2017: “It’s all about the socks.” Pulse: What rule did you break the most? What were the consequences? Robert Granger, class of 1957: “I was late more than I should have been, talked more than I should have, and didn’t pay attention like I should have. The consequences weren’t too harsh, they usually included staying after school or getting talked to sternly by the teacher. We did get paddled in front of class if we were really bad though, which was always embarrassing. It’s much different now, you know?” Brenda Phillips, class of 1976: “I would have to say…talking in class is probably the rule I broke the most. The consequences were usually that I had to write a paragraph about ‘why I won’t talk in class’ over and over again.” Alex Shell, class of 2017: “Probably just.. having my cell phone out in class! And usually my teachers just tell me to put it away.” Pulse: What is the best advice you could give to kids/young adults going back to school now? Robert Granger, class of 1957: “My best advice is pay as close of attention as you can in school, don’t blow it off, because it’s a lot more important than you think it is. You see how important it is later on in life. I would also add talk to your teachers if you don’t understand! Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your teachers are more of your friend than you realize. Most kids don’t think so, and want to get out as soon as they can. Don’t forget they are there to help you.”
GET SIGNED UP! IT’S FREE! All we need to get you signed up is an email address. Stop by Starting Point, visit our website, or use our mobile app to get signed up. You will recieve the invite in your inbox!
Brenda Phillips, class of 1976: “Students now are offered so much, so my advice is take advantage of it! Enjoy school, don’t consider it a burden.” Alex Shell, class of 2017: “Start off on the right foot. And don’t do drugs.”
CHELSEA MORGAN INSTA /CHELSEAJMORGAN
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WEEKLY SCHEDULE Traditional Worship Experience Sundays at 8:15AM
This experience offers a variety of hymns and sacred songs.
Modern Worship Experience Sundays at 9:30AM
This experience has a more laid back atmosphere & guitar driven worship.
Blended Worship Experience Sundays at 10:45AM
This experience includes upbeat worship with a choir and orchestra.
PM Worship Experience Sundays at 6:30PM
Have you been attending The Bridge for a while, and are looking for the next step? Maybe its time for you to become a member of The Bridge. So what does that mean? Membership at The Bridge involves serving, giving and participating in Biblical community. In our membership class, you’ll learn the vision and values of The Bridge. At the end of the class you’ll have an opportunity to become a member of The Bridge. Membership Class is designed for 16 year olds and up. Sign up online, through our mobile app, or at one of the information center kiosks out in the lobby. This class is a requirement for membership. thebridgeag.org
During this experience we come together as a whole to worship.
Hispanic Worship Experience Sundays at 10:30AM
This experience takes place in The Connection building and includes Spanish Worship and a message in Spanish from Pastor Kenny Garcia . Children and Youth can take part in what is happening on our main campus.
Wed. Traditional Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:15PM
This experience offers a variety of hymns and messages from Kenneth McGee in the Chapel.
Drive Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:30PM
This experience has a more laid back atmosphere & messages from Rob McClure in the Worship Center.
Wed. Hispanic Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:30PM
This experience takes place in The Connection building and includes Spanish Worship and a message in Spanish from Pastor Kenny Garcia
Our trained nursery staff is available during all worship experiences. For a full list of other opportunities, please check out the “Get Connected” section of Pulse. 10 / T H E B R I D G E A G . O R G
Come join us for a night of celebration as we welcome new lives into the world and new lives into Christ through baby dedications and water baptisms. Being a community of believers, this is a night we should not want to miss.
If you have recently given your heart to the Lord or have rededicated your life and want to be water baptized, there is a class we would like for you to attend on August 30. So stop by our website, open our mobile app, or visit a kiosk out in the lobby and sign up for a class.
If you have a baby you would like to have dedicated, you can go online or open our mobile app to get signed up. We just need some basic information about your child and a photo we can use at Family Night.
You must be signed up for Family Night by August 20 to participate. So sign up today!
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