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PULSE THE REWIND 4
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!
THE VARGAS 5
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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.
THANKSGIVING IS HERE 8
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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.
WEEKLY EVENTS 10
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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<<REWIND
IN CASE YOU DIDN’T HEAR ABOUT WHAT GOD HAS BEEN DOING AT THE BRIDGE… BRIDGE KIDS (BGMC) In October, our Bridge Kids were busy raising money for missions! In their pursuit of fulfilling their $38,000 BGMC mission’s pledge for 2015, they hosted a garage sale on the 8th and 9th and followed that up with a casual cookie sale that exploded into a HUGE cookie sale. Between the garage sale and the over 2400 cookies baked, Bridge Kids will earn nearly $4000 for missions. A big thank you goes out to all who supported and served in these projects.
CORN MAZE A bonfire, hayride, corn maze, and all of your closest friends was the perfect recipe for an incredible fall evening in October for our Bridge Students. On October 24th, over 100 students loaded up in all the church vans and a charter bus and headed west for their annual Corn Maze trip. It was a great night!
ALL CHURCH FALL BLOCK PARTIES What happens when you combine truck-loads of candy, bounce houses, and incredible volunteers? You get an amazing outreach to our community! On October 31st (Halloween), our church equipped 16 houses with enough candy and bounce houses to entertain their whole neighborhoods! This outreach was as a great way to serve our community and to introduce our neighbors to our church and ultimately God.
WE WANT YOUR PICS! At a Bridge event? Did you snap some pics for your social media? Be sure to tag us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Your pic could end up in the next issue of the Pulse magazine!
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phrase, “helping people get to the other side,” we have made it our mission to see to it that those in our community are given every opportunity to Connect with God, Grow spiritually and ultimately give back to others by Serving because of the joy God has given them. It will always be exciting to see stories like this: Carlos, Courtney, Cristiano and Coralie Vargas began attaining our Bridge OKC Campus in the month of July. Courtney saw one of our posts on Instagram and told Carlos, “We have to go.” In her words she felt like God was leading them to the Bridge OKC campus. Shortly after coming,
GOD CONTINUES TO MOVE IN THE LIVES OF PEOPLE AT THE BRIDGE!
Courtney decided to surrender her life to Jesus. She and Carlos
There are so many stories of individuals, families, students
parking lot teams.
continued to come to church faithfully each week and soon started to attend “Growth Track”. On August 30th, Courtney shared her testimony and was baptized in water. On that same day, she and Carols dedicated both of their children to the Lord. Today, Courtney now serves as a back up singer on our worship team and Carlos is serving on our production and
and kids who lives have been completely restored by the faithfulness of God. For years, our church community has
It’s stories of life change like this that we have seen the last
unapologetically committed to helping people establish or
few months. The Vargas’ story is an exciting reminder to us
re-establish Christ as the center of their lives. Under the
that God is still eager to reach and restore lives!
What’s Your Story? Your Story is a Gift...
What if I don’t know where to start?
A gift? What you’ve been through? Yes. Your story is a gift from God that He can use to draw people to Jesus. But not if you keep it to yourself—only if you share it.
Figuring out what to say can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve created www.thebridgeag.org/whatsyourstory to guide you with questions, so everyone can tell their story for God’s glory.
Why share my story? What will you do with my story? God has a plan for everyone’s story. Sharing could be your next step to celebrate what Jesus has done for you, to experience his blessing or to reach others for Jesus.
Our staff celebrates every story! We’ll also look for opportunities to use your story in our events, resources and online. We won’t do anything without your OK.
What if I don’t think I have a story? You can’t meet Jesus and stay the same. Tell us about any turning point, Next Step, or remarkable experience that points to Jesus working in your life.
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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.
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.
SUNDAYS / 10:45AM
Rm 205 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.
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NEW GROUP
Stephen Rosebrook | 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.
RM100 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.
TUESDAYS / 9:30AM
PrimeTime 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.
Mom’s Class Kathy McGee | Rm 100 Come hang out and grow with other mom’s while we watch your little ones! You know....a vacation.
Women’s Bible Study Carole Harrell | Rm 104 We are kicking off a brand new study entitled “What Love Is.” It’s a look at 1, 2, & 3 John.
GROW GROUPS
KIDS
STUDENTS
MEN
Divorce Care Surviving The Holidays Wednesday, December 2
Bridge Kids Sundays at 8:15/9:30/10:45AM
Bridge Students Wednesdays at 7:15PM
Men’s Breakfast Saturday, November 14
The Holiday season has begun. This might be the first holiday after your separation or divorce. This class will enable you not only to survive the coming holidays, but also to face them with a measure of peace and assurance. It will be offered at 7:00PM in RM102.
Join us every week for exciting worship, fun games, and Biblical lessons!
Join us for our weekly worship experience in the Bridge Students building.
Come join us for an amazing breakfast and a short devotional at 7:30AM out in The Venue.
Boys & Girls Clubs Wednesdays at 7:15PM
Sunday Grow Groups Sundays at 10:45AM
Grief Share Surviving The Holidays Wednesday, December 2
We offer fun filled programs every week for boys (Royal Rangers) and girls (mPact) that help them grow with God.
BGMC Bedlam Dinner Sunday, November 22
The holiday season has begun. This might be the first holiday after your loved one’s death, or maybe its the second, third, or beyond. This class will enable you not only to survive the coming holidays, but also to face them with a measure of peace and assurance. It will be offered at 7:00PM in RM104.
Join us following the evening service for a great time and a chance to raise money for mission out in the Student Building. Our Kids & Youth Departments are teaming up with a BGMC Dinner and a Speed the Light Pie Auction on the same night. So coming enjoy tailgating food, then have a chance to buy a dessert.
Living Free Addiction Recovery Wednesday’s at 7:15PM
Kids Christmas Play Practice Every Sunday at 9:30AM
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.
STARTING POINT Fresh Start Sunday, November 29 Have you recently started attending The Bridge? If so, we want to meet you. 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
To make is as easy as possible for your kids to be a part of our Christmas Production. Every Sunday we will take a portion of the 9:30AM hour to rehearse for our production that will happen on Sunday, December 13 at 6:30PM.
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
STL Pie Auction Sunday, November 22 Join us following the evening service for a great time and a chance to raise money for mission out in the Student Building. Our Kids & Youth Departments are teaming up with a BGMC Dinner and a Speed the Light Pie Auction on the same night. So coming enjoy tailgating food, then have a chance to buy a dessert.
WOMEN Self Defense Class Thursday, November 12 Ladies come and join us for a self defense class - bring your teenage daughter, your mother, ALL ages encouraged to attend. It’s going to be a lot of fun and starts at 7:00PM in The Venue.
Rada Knives Missions Fundraiser Are you starting to look for great ideas for Christmas gifts... well look no longer. Bridge Women are selling Rada Knifes to raise money for missions. If you are interested please contact cyndi@thebridgeag.org
Mission Trips Meeting Sunday, December 6 If your student is interested in going to one of our mission trips that are coming up, please make sure they are in RM105 at 5:30PM to get all of the details! Haiti March 12-19 Mission Arlington May 30-June 3 LA Dream Center June 6-11
Fine Arts Meeting Sunday, December 6 If your student is interested in being a part of Fine Arts, they should join us in RM105 at 6:00PM for more information!
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Supply List: •
Pumpkin
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Berry wreath
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from any craft store (find a 1/2 off coupon online) 3-leg stool
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vintage, this one was a hand me down Silver plate tray
this one is a garage sale find for $1 but Dollar Tree has
similar trays
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Chalkboard paint
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Foam paintbrush
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Chalk
Step 1: Paint the inside of the tray with two coats of chalkboard paint. Step 2: Write ‘Be Thankful’ (or any other holiday related phrase) on the tray with chalk. Step 3: Assemble. Place berry wreath on top of 3-leg stool. Place pumpkin on top of berry wreath and place tray in front. This one is just leaning on one of the legs but you could also use an
LADIES, IT’S NOVEMBER, AND THE THANKSGIVING SEASON IS UPON US!
easel. Have fun with this! If you don’t have a vintage 3-leg stool, try using a cake plate or an overturned bucket. You can use a leafy wreath or even a garland instead of the berry wreath. You can also substitute the tray with a pre-made chalkboard. Easy peasy!
Don’t Panic! We know that your pulse rate rises at just the thought of family coming to town to invade your home. Then there is the meal that you will not only painstakingly prepare for but will likely also have to clean up afterward. Ugh. The good news, calories don’t count on Thanksgiving! Of course, with all the busyness that comes from preparing this meal, you may have forgotten about a proper centerpiece decoration for your dinning table. We’ve got your back! Here is a simple, budget friendly centerpiece idea from our very own Sally Hutson, a decorating genius. Its simple, cheap, fun to make and even better, you can delegate it to your kids to do! Sally says, “Here is a super easy centerpiece for your fall/ Thanksgiving table. You’ll need the following.”
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THANKSGIVING CONVO STARTERS Thanksgiving dinner conversations can get awkward quick! Politics, family drama, and community gossip can destroy the major meaning and message of the holiday. So here are some simple Thanksgiving conversations starters to can make your family’s dinner conversation fun, productive, informative and most of all…safe. Here you will find the very best Thanksgiving dinner table conversation starters.
flesh, sharp knives, and popping joints! Carving a turkey, really is a rite of passage that every man must go through. You know the scene. All of your family’s eyes will be on you as you begin to masterfully carve your bird. That said our hopes are that you not only earn extra man points by masterfully carving it with the biggest knife you can find but that you can capitalize on this moment, when all eyes are on you and the stage is yours, to man up and lead your family in a proper discussion of giving thanks and prayer. So, when all eyes are on you and you are about to carve that bird (You know you love the attention…if even for just a moment) remember what Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. 16 Be joyful always; 17 Pray Continually; 18 Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
MEN, IT’S NOVEMBER, AND THE THANKSGIVING SEASON IS UPON US! If you think about it, Thanksgiving really is a manly holiday. The weather is cool, the smell of turkey roasting and pies baking fills the house, and who can forget about the lazy, guilt free, football filled afternoon that you will enjoy! It really is a man’s day. As you know, there are few tasks on that day that are more manly than carving the turkey for your family during your Thanksgiving feast. It involves roasted
Simply, as central to our relationship with God as joy and prayer are, giving thanks in all circumstance is equally important. You have an opportunity to refocus your family’s attention to the blessings and faithfulness that God has poured out onto their lives. This is a great moment that you get to lead your family. D.L. Moody says, A man ought to live so that everybody knows he is a Christians…and most of all, his family ought to know. Sure, you are all ready carve the turkey, but do you know what you will say when all eyes are you? How will you set the spiritual tone for your family that day? Have you thought about how you will reveal to your family your thanks to God? Here are some simple ideas that you could use to help make the most of the few moments of attention you will have that day.
Thanksgiving Conversation Starters What are you Thankful For? What are you proudest of? What’s the happiest moment of your life so far? What’s been the hardest moment of your life, and how did you get through it? What are the most important lessons you’ve learned in life? How do you want to be remembered? If your great great grand children could listen to this years from now, what wisdom would you pass on to them?
The old standby: Have everyone go around the table and share what they are thankful for. Get personal: Go around the room and share one thing about each person at your table that you are thankful for. Throw back Thursday: Have everyone at the table share their favorite family memory. Go Biblical: Read your favorite bible verse or passage and share what it means/applies to you and your family. Pray: Don’t overcomplicate it - just be you, and be thankful.
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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
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 7:00PM
This experience offers a variety of hymns and messages from Kenneth McGee in the Chapel.
Drive Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:00PM
This experience has a more laid back atmosphere & messages from Rob McClure in the Worship Center.
Wed. Hispanic Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:00PM
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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Get Connectedâ&#x20AC;? section of Pulse. 10 / T H E B R I D G E A G . O R G
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