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huge crowd of kids and families! It was
and hope you will come be part of our
an amazing event and on behalf of our
Mother’s Day service too!
staff, thank you so much for serving,
It’s going to be a great month!
attending and investing in such an I love being your pastor,
incredible event!
Jim & Linda May has many exciting opportunities for you and your family as well! As the school year winds down, make sure your Bridge family, welcome to May!
kids get signed up for kids camp, youth camp, vacation bible school, or even one
Last month ended with a bang as we
of our Bridge Students Mission trips!
hosted our annual Easter Egg Hunt, where over 10000 candy filled eggs
Oh, and don’t forget about Mother’s Day!
were scattered and then collected by a
We want to honor our moms this year
Experiences SUNDAYS
MIDWEEK
at 7:00PM
TRADITIONAL
TRADITIONAL 8:15AM
This experience offers a variety of hymns and messages from Kenneth McGee in the Chapel.
This experience offers a variety of hymns and sacred songs.
MODERN 9:30AM
BRIDGE UNIVERSITY
This experience has a more laid-back atmosphere & guitar-driven worship.
Meet in the auditorium for worship, then we will break out to a variety of great classes. Class descriptions are on Page 9.
BLENDED 10:50AM This experience includes upbeat worship with a choir and orchestra.
EN ESPANOL
EN ESPANOL 10:30AM
This experience takes place in The Connection building and includes Spanish Worship and a message in Spanish from Pastor Kenny Garcia.
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.
AFTER-HOURS CONTACT INFORMATION In case of emergency please contact our church office at 405.376.4538 and our answering service will contact us accordingly.
1. Need information?
2. Stop by Starting Point
3. Join a small group. In
4. Our students’ and
You can find it all in this
after the service. You will
a large church, the key to
kids’ experiences are
magazine, on our website, or
find someone to answer any
making friends and having
outstanding. Make sure
through our mobile app.
questions you may have
community is joining a small
your kids don’t miss out on
about our church.
group.
the amazing things we have going on just for them.
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10 Things You Might Not Know About Mother’s Day 2. THE FOUNDER FOUGHT BACK.
Everyone knows Mother’s Day is the day to shower your mom with affection (and maybe take her out for a nice meal). But just how many people plan to do that each year? Here are a
Although Julia Ward Howe first suggested a day for mothers,
few facts and stats about Mother’s Day that might surprise
Anna Jarvis (who had no children of her own) campaigned for
you.
a national day of observance for moms, in remembrance of her own mother, Ann Jarvis, who had spent years working to
1. THE DAY WAS FIRST SUGGESTED BY A FAMOUS POET.
provide resources for poor mothers in West Virginia. Mother’s Day became a designated holiday in 1914, but within a few years, Jarvis became disgusted with how commercial the day
The woman who first proposed Mother’s Day in 1870 was the
had become and started a petition to rescind the holiday.
same woman who wrote the lyrics to “The Battle Hymn of
(That clearly didn’t come to pass.)
the Republic.” After the Civil War, writer Julia Ward Howe
3. PICK UP THE PHONE.
suggested a Mother’s Day to recognize peace and protest war. She organized annual events in Boston to honor mothers, but despite her work (and her moving “Mother’s Day
Call volume in the U.S. goes up 11 percent on Mother’s Day,
Proclamation”), nothing official came of her efforts.
and a recent study suggests that the more widespread use of cell phones has greatly increased the amount of contact adult
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7. MOMS AROUND THE WORLD ARE RECOGNIZED WITH DAYS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
children have with their mothers. So don’t look like a slacker: Your mom definitely expects to hear from you, and not just with a text.
4. EXPECT OVERCROWDED RESTAURANTS.
Many countries have a Mother’s Day, though they don’t always fall on the second Sunday in May like it does in the U.S., Australia, China, Japan, and India. Flowers and gifts are
If you’re thinking about taking your mom out to eat, you
a worldwide tradition for the day, but in Thailand parades are
might want to consider which time of the day will have
held and jasmine is commonly given as a gift. In Serbia, moms
enough open tables. Mother’s Day is the busiest day of the
are tied up with rope or ribbon until they give sweets and
year for restaurants, with some 80 million adults dining out
gifts to their children (which seems to contradict the entire
(which tops even Valentine’s Day). Nearly half of those people
concept of the holiday).
will be out for dinner, as opposed to lunch or brunch, so if
8. MANY PEOPLE HONOR MULTIPLE MOTHERS IN THEIR LIFE.
you’d like to treat your mom to her favorite cuisine, perhaps go earlier in the day.
5. THE JEWELRY AND SPA SERVICES INDUSTRIES GET BOOSTS TOO.
You’re probably planning on sending your own mom a card, but are you going to send cards to other mothers as well? The average consumer buys 2.8 Mother’s Day cards, so most
You know you need to get your mom a gift, but what to buy?
people are buying for more than just their own mom (like,
According to the National Retail Federation, $5 billion will
say, for their grandmothers, wives, mothers-in-law, sisters, or
be spent on jewelry this year (accounting for 36 percent of
friends). In fact, 57 percent of mothers says they’ve received
shoppers). Another 37 percent of consumers will purchase
Mother’s Day gifts from non-family members.
clothing, 15 percent get electronics, and 24 percent will spend
9. STATISTICS SHOW DADS NEED TO STEP IT UP.
nearly $2 billion on spa services for their mothers. But if you want to let mom pick out her own gift, you aren’t alone—45 percent of surveyed consumers said they planned to go the
While everyone knows you need to get something for your
gift card route.
mother, 47 percent of moms think that dads should buy the
6. THE FLOWER INDUSTRY IS THE BIG WINNER.
mother of their kids a gift. Don’t hold your breath though
Carnations quickly became the symbol of Mother’s Day
10. MOMS STILL COME OUT AHEAD FOR MOTHER’S DAY.
moms: Only 6 percent of dads agree!
(supposedly representing the tears of Mary when Jesus was crucified) when it began in 1914, and soon the floral industry promoted the idea of wearing a red carnation to honor a
Even if fathers might not be the ones driving floral sales on
person’s living mom or a white carnation to honor a mother
Mother’s Day, if there were a monetary competition between
who had passed. Although this tradition has faded, 76 percent
the parental appreciation days, mothers would win outright.
of moms are currently hoping to get flowers from their kids
On average, people spend $126 on Father’s Day compared to
or loved ones on this special day. Their odds are good—
$172 on Mother’s Day.
Mother’s Day is the number one day for floral sales, and the NRF’s survey revealed that a whopping 69 percent of people were planning to buy flowers this year.
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Groups
SUNDAYS AT 10:50AM
RM 205
The goal of joining a group is growing in your walk with Jesus and surrounding yourself with people that can support you in taking your next steps. We believe life is better when you live in community. SUNDAYS AT 9:30AM
RM 201 KENNY MCGEE | 30s-50s How does God’s timeless word apply to us in real life? Let’s 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
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 indepth study of the Bible that will not only lead to great biblical discussions but will also educate and challenge you to pursue a deeper knowledge of Christ.
DOUG WYATT | 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.
RM 104 KERRY & ROBBIE SHUCK | YOUNG MARRIEDS Starting off a new life together can be an amazing adventure! Join other young couples in this small group as we discover how to set our marriages and future families up for happiness, just as God designed.
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.
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 at it alone. Join us as we discuss how to navigate life as God intended, apply his Word every day, and make the most of every minute we have!
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 rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us each day.
RM 105
RM 104
CHAPEL
BROOKE CARRUTH | 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 our busy lives.
ARNOLD & PHILLIPS | 40s-60s Belonging to a community of believers who care is vital to our spiritual lives. Join this discussion-based small group that encourages, challenges, and shows each other how to implement our faith in God in practical ways.
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.
RM 202
ROB MCCLURE | ALL AGES Join us as we discuss all the highs and lows of parenting and what a Godly family really looks like. Together we will take a closer look at how we can be better lead and guide our kids with through the trials of today!
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 as we explore scripture and discover how to grow in Christ and learn to handle real-life issues with prayer and deeprooted faith in God.
RM205
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 discuss how to practically apply them to our lives.
RM100
RM204 BRIDGE STUDENTS Get connected in a weekly small group! This time is designed to help your students grow in spiritual disciplines.
NEW CLASSES
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TUESDAYS AT 9:30AM MOMS CLASS Come hang out and grow with other moms while we watch the little ones. You know...a vacation! RM100
LADIES’ BIBLE STUDY We are kicking off a brand new video-assisted series called “Beloved Disciple” by Beth Moore. RM104
PRIME TIMERS This is an opportunity for all of our senior adults to get out, have fun, learn, and fellowship with other seniors. RM105
THIRD SUNDAY AT 6:00PM DOUG WYATT | YOUNG ADULTS (405) 204-4569 / doug@thebridgeag.org
WEDNESDAYS AT 7:00PM
WRILEY & DAWN WEBSTER | NEWLYWEDS (405) 414-4119 / wriley@wearethebridge.church
NAMI SUPPORT GROUP
JOSH & HOLLY JACKSON | 20s-40s (W/ KIDS)
Every 1st & 3rd Week Are you the family, partner, or caregiver of an individual living with mental illness? Come find support and friendship with others in the same situation. We will discuss critical information and strategies related to caregiving. RM200
(405) 830-5878 / jjack540@cox.net
LUKE & ANDREA PURKEY | 20s-40s (W/ KIDS) (405) 317-4560 / andrea.purkey@gmail.com
JASON & MARGIE TIMM | 30s-50s (W/ KIDS & TEENS) (405) 613-4547 / mazawill@yahoo.com
LIVING FREE ADDICTION RECOVERY Come and let us help you on the road to overcoming addictions and breaking free from life-controlling issues. The End Zone.
MARK & DIANE LEBSACK | 30s-50s (W/ KIDS & TEENS) (405) 830-0059 / mdlebsack@yahoo.com
ROB & SHERRI MCCLURE | 30s-50s
BRIDGE UNIVERSITY
(405) 517-8635 / rob@thebridgeag.org
For the months of April & May we will be having Bridge U groups on a variety of topics. Visit finda.group for group details.
DONNELLY & GROVES | 30s-50s (405) 740-3631 / alidonnelly4@yahoo.com
ED & BRENDA DAMRON | 40s-60s (405) 823-7442 / brenda@brendadamron.com
KATHLEEN & LYNDEN WILCOXSON | ALL AGES (405) 820-2990 / kathleenwilcoxson@sbcglobal.net
KEN ISOM & KEN MCGEE | SENIOR ADULTS (405) 250-0619 / kenmcgee@thebridgeag.org Interest Based
BIKES & TRIKES | ROGER & RHONDA STEVENS (405) 830.0530 / stevensroger34@yahoo.com
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What to get Mom. 3. Remember something she loves.
Americans are expected to spend more than $23.6 billion celebrating Mother’s Day this year. The average American is expected to spend $186, according to the National Retail
Whether it’s a special piece of jewelry she’s had her eye
Federation. So clearly, we are remembering our mothers.
on or her favorite snacks, a thoughtful gift reminds your
Yet, each year I am faced with the same question: What
mom of how well you know her and that you’re thinking
should I get my mama for Mother’s Day? How do I show
of her. What does your mom love? Be creative.
my love? Sometimes, to be quite honest, I get stuck. So this year I reflect: What do I want for Mother’s Day? What
One year for Mother’s Day, my husband surprised me
makes me feel special? If you’re stuck, too, here are three
with framed pictures of me and my son. The pictures
things most moms would love for you to do:
were taken during a day together in the mountains. My husband knew I would love looking at those pictures and
1. Relieve her of her duties.
remembering an awesome day. Jesus gave. Love gives. Philippians 2:4 reminds, “Let each of you look not only
I’m a wife, mother of two, human puppy mama, daughter,
to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
granddaughter, friend, and teacher. Busy transporting kids,
Honor your mom by remembering what she loves on
cleaning messes, giving advice, lending a hand, working
Mother’s Day.
a job, doing laundry, and attending meetings and events. Nothing says, “I love you,” like walking into the house and
Make this Mother’s Day special for your mom and think
finding my husband has already cleaned it. I love when
about how you can hit one or all of these three Rs —
my son or daughter does chores without being asked. This
giving her some relief and reassurance, and showing her
Mother’s Day, relieve mom of her usual to-do’s by making
you remembered.
it your responsibility. Plan the meal. Do the laundry. Help her catch up on something for work. Galatians 5:13 says, “through love serve one another.” Honor your mom by serving her this Mother’s Day.
2. Reassure her with your words. In fourth grade, my son wrote a poem. Mama’s eyes are so bright and blue they are almost blinding. Her hugs are so warm they can light a fire. Her kisses are so soft and warm I think it’s the sun. Mama’s cooking is so delicious that I think I’m in food heaven. I used to wonder why my mama said something homemade meant more than something bought, but now I understand. Hearing how my family feels about me is the best present. God teaches to, “honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). Honor your mom with your words this Mother’s Day.
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SUNDAY NIGHTS
Happenings CORPORATE PRAYER
CONNECT 6 LUNCH
Tuesday at 9:00AM Join us every week as we come together for a time of corporate prayer in the Chapel.
Sunday, May 5 If you currently have a 5th grader that will be joining Bridge Students in the fall of 2019, come join us for a free lunch in The Venue following third service at 12:15PM. Visit our website or mobile app to get signed up!
FAMILY FREEDOM FEST VOLUNTEER MEETING
MAY 12 No PM Activities
Sunday, June 2 Family Freedom Fest is one of the biggest community events we put on each year, and this year we want to make it even better! That requires you! Come join us for a volunteer meeting at 6:00PM in RM105.
MAY 26 No PM Activities
Bridge Kids BRIDGE KIDS EXPERIENCE
HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR BANQUET
Sundays at 8:15/9:30/10:50AM Join us every week for exciting worship, fun games, and biblical lessons!
Monday, May 13 In The Venue at 6:30PM we will have a banquet to honor our high school seniors. We will have three complimentary tickets available for your senior (this includes a ticket for the senior) and other tickets will be available for purchase for $10.00. For more information please contact kaisha@wearethebridge.church
Wednesdays at 7:00PM We offer fun-filled programs every week for boys (Royal Rangers) and girls (mPact) that help them grow with God.
WELCOME SUMMER PARTY
OKC ZOO TRIP Thursday, May 23 School is out! Lets celebrate with a trip to the OKC Zoo. Cost is $15 and includes an Entrance Ticket, Lunch, The Sea Lion Show, and Nectar for Explorikeets Feeding Experience (Parents welcome at the same cost). We will be leaving the church at 9:00AM and returning at 3:30PM. You can signup and find the required medical release form via our website or mobile app. (pre registration is not required.)
STEP RIGHT UP VBS June 10-13 Vacation Bible School is just around the corner and we can’t wait! This year we are encouraging kids to ‘Step Right Up!’ embrace the spotlight and remember that God can use them in spectacular ways. VBS if for kids ages 5 thru 11 and it’s TOTALLY FREE! Get your kids signed up at wearethebridge.church/vbs We also need volunteers young and old! You can get signed up on the same website and we will have a volunteer meeting on Sunday, June 2 at 5:00PM in RM105
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FAMILY DINNER Wednesday, May 8 Our family dinner service nights we offer a free meal, have worship and a short devotional message, and the best part is we do this all around round tables ending with a time of discussion and prayer. We hope your students will join us at 7:00PM.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS
MAY 19 Connect Groups
BRIDGE STUDENTS EXPERIENCE Wednesdays at 7:00PM Join us for our weekly service that your students do not want to miss. There is powerful worship, a life-impacting message, and a whole lot of fun!
All Church MAY 5 No PM Activities
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Wednesday, May 22 School’s out for the Summer! At 7:00PM we are having our Welcome Summer Party! This is always a fun night to celebrate the school year coming to an end. We will have an ice cream sundae bar, games, and giveaways. We can’t think of a better way to welcome summer! We
Bridge Men MEN’S BREAKFAST Saturday, May 11 Come join us for a man-sized breakfast, great fellowship, and spend some time speaking into the lives of men who are currently incarcerated. Happening in The Venue at 7:30AM.
Bridge Seniors DINNER ROAD TRIP Friday, May 24 The Bridge Seniors will leave the church by vans at 3:00PM for Dinner in Purcell. Come and join us for an evening of great food and fellowship.
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