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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.
Experiences SUNDAYS
TRADITIONAL 8:15AM
1. Need information?
This experience offers a variety of hymns and sacred songs.
You can find it all in
MODERN 9:30AM
this magazine, on our
This experience has a more laid back atmosphere & guitar driven worship.
website, or through our mobile app.
BLENDED 10:50AM This experience includes upbeat worship with a choir and orchestra.
3. Join a small group.
EN ESPANOL 10:30AM
In a large church,
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.
the key to making friends and having community is joining a small group.
MIDWEEK
at 7:00PM
TRADITIONAL
2. Stop by Starting
This experience offers a variety of hymns and messages from Kenneth McGee in the Chapel.
Point after the service. You will find
MODERN
someone to answer
This experience has a more laid back atmosphere & messages from Rob McClure in the Worship Center.
any questions you may have about our
EN ESPANOL
church.
This experience takes place in The Connection building and includes Spanish Worship and a message in Spanish from Pastor Kenny Garcia
4. Our students and kid’s experiences are outstanding. Make sure your kids
AFTER HOURS CONTACT INFORMATION
don’t miss out on the
In case of emergency please contact our church office at 405.376.4538 and our answering service will contact us accordingly.
amazing things we have going on just for them.
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It’s the culmination of Advent—a tradition in which we
The Real War On Christmas
remind ourselves what it’s like to wait on something. Contra
Is ‘Christmas’ really under attack ?
In the consumer tradition, it’s about sales, marketing and
our on-demand culture, Advent is a season when Christians reflect on coming promises. It’s a reminder that earthly wealth looks different than heavenly value. It’s about God coming to man. In the modern cultural tradition, however, Christmas has become about consumption. This season kicks off not with the Advent calendar, but with a holiday (Black Friday) dedicated to shopping.
acquiring more stuff. They may share spots on the calendar, but these aren’t really the same holidays at all. It happens every year.
THE ACTUAL WAR
A war is declared. Retail stores, websites and even coffee
“The War on Christmas” is predicated on the idea that
chains become the subject of boycotts, viral video campaigns
mainstream, American culture (in this case, American
and, yes, even “naughty lists,” for failing adequately to
consumer culture) should mirror Christian values. But,
promote a Christian holiday. Some people perceive this is not
the reality is these values are in conflict with each other,
simply an oversight on behalf of retailers, but an act of war.
regardless of whether we receive a catalog in the mail says
ADVERTISING
“Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays.”
The problem is, only one side is interested in fighting it. And, a
Many “War on Christmas” advocates demand that retailers
one-sided fight, isn’t a war. It’s an attack.
use the term “Christmas” in their marketing and sales material. The argument is that by keeping the term “Christ”
TWO DIFFERENT HOLIDAYS
associated with the event (even if it’s in the form of selling
In the Christian tradition, Christmas is the celebration of
and properly reflecting on His birth.
discounted tires), then we are somehow honoring His name
the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s the day we remember that the heavenly king wasn’t born into opulence in a mighty castle,
But Christ never wanted a brand. He didn’t ask us to use
but in an old barn to a mother, who just months before, was
His name to sell stuff. He didn’t even ask us to celebrate His
an unwed pregnant teen.
birthday. continues on page 10
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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.
Small Groups SUNDAYS AT 9:30AM
RM 201 KENNY MCGEE | 30’S-50’S 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 ROY PECK | 30’S-50’S 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 | 40’S-60’S 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 105 KATHLEEN WILCOXSON | 30’S-60’S 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, and maturity in, Christ.
RM 100 KENNETH MCGEE | 50’S & 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.
CHAPEL KEN ISOM | 50’S & 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
RM204 BRIDGE STUDENTS Get connected in a weekly small group! This time is designed to help your students grow in spiritual disciplines.
RM 202 ED DAMRON | 40’S-60’S 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 deep rooted faith in God.
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Grow Groups We offer Grow Groups for you and your family to build a sturdy foundation for spiritual growth in your life. These groups are designed to meet you where you are and provide you a path for reaching where you need to be.
TUESDAYS AT 9:30AM MOM’S CLASS Come hang out and grow with other moms while we watch your little ones! You know....a vacation! RM100
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY We are kicking off a brand new video assisted study on “Jesus, The One and Only” by Beth Moore and would love for you to join us! RM104
PRIMETIME Hey senior adults! Here is an opportunity to get out of the house, have fun, and enjoy fellowship with other senior adults. RM105
Connect Groups We all want and need quality friendships. Every 3rd Sunday evening our Connect Groups meet throughout the community to provide an opportunity for you to hang out with, and get to know others from our church.
THIRD SUNDAY AT 6:00PM DOUG WYATT | YOUNG ADULTS (405) 204-4569 / doug@thebridgeag.org
WEDNESDAYS AT 7:00PM WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY Starting on January 10 Do you feel that the ability to hear God’s voice is for other people and not for you? Not at all! The God who loved you enough to die for you loves you enough to talk to you. And wherever you are in your spiritual walk, God will find a way to speak to you in a way you will understand. Become acquainted with the Voice that has spoken from a fire and a cloud; with visible signs and an invisible Spirit; through a burning bush and burning hearts. This is a video assisted study. RM105
MEN’S BIBLE STUDY Starting on January 10 Our lives are filled with constant noises competing for our attention. Yet many of us never hear the one voice we long to hear the most. In the midst of it all, God is still speaking. Do you hear Him? Come learn how to tune in and hear God. This is a video assisted study. RM104
STEVE & MISTI ROSEBROOK | NEWLY WEDS (405) 615-1740 / mistirosebrook@yahoo.com
JOSH & HOLLY JACKSON | 20-40’S (W/ KIDS) (405) 830-5878 / jjack540@cox.net
LUKE & ANDREA PURKEY | 20-40’S (W/ KIDS) (405) 317-4560 / andrea.purkey@gmail.com
ANNETTE HABEN | 30-40’S (W/ KIDS)
Y! R A U N & TEENS) CARRUTH’S & SPILLMANS | 30-50’SJ AKIDS IN (W/ P (405) 812-7393 / abccarruth@gmail.com U ACK B T R TA & MARGIE TIMM | 30-50’S (W/ KIDS & TEENS) SJASON (405) 323-9428 / smhaben@cox.net
(405) 613-4547 / mazawill@yahoo.com
ROB & SHERRI MCCLURE | 30-50’S (405) 517-8635 / rob@thebridgeag.org
ED & BRENDA DAMRON | 40-60’S (405) 823-7442 / brenda@brendadamron.com
NAMI SUPPORT GROUP 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
KATHLEEN & LINDEN WILCOXSON | 40-60’S (405) 820-2990 / kathleenwilcoxson@sbcglobal.net
KEN ISOM & KEN MCGEE | SENIOR ADULTS (405) 250-0619 / kenmcgee@thebridgeag.org Interest Based
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.
MOTORCYCLES | JANAT LATHAM (405) 229-2219 / janet.latham9@gmail.com
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SUNDAY NIGHTS
DEC 3 Refresh Night / Operation Shoebox
DEC 10 Bridge Kids Excellent Christmas Adventure
Happenings All Church
Bridge Kids
CORPORATE PRAYER
BRIDGE KIDS EXPERIENCE
Tuesday at 9:00AM Join us every week as we come together for a time of corporate prayer in the Chapel.
Sundays at 8:15/9:30/10:50AM Join us every week for exciting worship, fun games, and Biblical lessons!
REFRESH NIGHT
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS
Sunday,December 3 Join us Sunday Night at 6:00PM for Special Guest Jeff Lucas. Refresh Nights are a night we set aside for a time of spiritual refreshing through powerful worship, life impacting messages, and individual/corporate prayer.
Wednesdays at 7:00PM We offer fun filled programs every week for boys (Royal Rangers) and girls (mPact) that help them grow with God.
OPERATION SHOEBOX
Sunday, December 3 Your kids do not want to miss our new series in Bridge Kids: Christmas at the Movies. It’s going to be a lot of fun and your kids will discover biblical truths through everyones favorite Christmas movies.
Sunday,December 3 Following our Sunday Night Refresh Night come join us out in The Venue for Operation Shoebox. We will stuff over 300 shoeboxes with gifts for inner city kids who would otherwise receive nothing this Christmas. We always have a lot of fun and it’s a great way to give back this holiday season.
BRIDGE KIDS EXCELLENT CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE Sunday, December 10 Come join us at 6:00PM in the Auditorium for our annual kids Christmas play. It is sure to make you laugh and help bring in the Christmas Season.
HOLLY JOLLY DINNER THEATER
DEC 17 Holly Jolly Dinner Theater
Sunday,December 17 Come join us for a wonderful evening of music, great food, and christmas cheer in an intimate setting we know you will enjoy. The cost is $6 per person and includes a meal catered by Johnny Carinos, salad, and a dessert. Limited seating is available. You must purchase tickets in advance at EVENThub. Nursery and Bridge Kids will be available that evening for your kids. Be sure to feed them before they come.
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE
DEC 24 &31 No Activities
Sunday,December 24 On Christmas Eve we will be having one combined Christmas Eve service at 10:00AM. Come join us for a time of carols, reflection, and communion.
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NEW SERMON SERIES: CHRISTMAS AT THE MOVIES
Bridge Students 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! This month we are starting a new series entitled “Do For One”. In this series we are going to learn how to keep our nothing from getting in the way of our something!
ONE NIGHT CHRISTMAS PARTY Wednesday, December 20 December One Night is all about Christmas! Wear your Christmas sweater and get ready for a fun night. There will be food, games and prizes for the best Christmas sweater! We are looking forward to a great night!
NEW YEARS EVE PARTY Wednesday, December 20 2018 is coming and Bridge Students wants to celebrate the new year together! On December 31st we will head downtown to attend a Thunder game and then head to our OKC campus facility for snacks, games and fun until midnight! We will meet at the church at 4:30PM. The cost is $20 and we will be back at the Bridge Student’s building at 12:45AM. We only have 80 tickets available for students so spots are limited, sign up today!
WEARETHEBRIDGE.CHURCH
Bridge Men
Bridge Seniors
MEN’S BREAKFAST
CHRISTMAS DINNER
Saturday, December 9 Come join us for an amazing breakfast and a short devotional at 7:30AM out in The Venue. This is a great opportunity to come hang out with the guys.
Friday, December 1 Join us for Christmas Dinner and entertainment at 6:30PM in The Venue. Bring a vegetable, salad, or a dessert. The main course will be furnished.
MAGNOLIA LUNCHEON Sunday, December 3 We want to invite all single ladies over 50 to come join us for our Magnolia Luncheon. We want to take some time and honor you for being you. Stop by EVENThub to get signed up.
Bridge Women RADA KNIVES to support missions Looking for ideas for Christmas gifts? Well look no further! Bridge Women’s Ministry is selling RADA Knives. There are lots of items to purchase including knives, kitchen utensils, cookbooks, mixes, dips, and so much more. Contact cyndi@thebridgeag.org to look at a catalog or place an order.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS & DINNER Friday, December 8 Come join us on a trip to go see Christmas lights. Vans will leave the church at 3:30 PM. We will stop for dinner on the way.
PEANUT BRITTLE FOR A CAUSE. The Bridge loves supporting local churches and pastors. One local pastor sells homemade peanut brittle every Christmas Season and, with the proceeds, is able to help fund his church throughout the year. Stop by our bookstore to purchase some throughout the month of December!
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idea of Christmas with the Bible’s story
It was about going to other people’s
of Jesus’ birth becomes problematic
level, instead of expecting them to come
The Christmas story isn’t about
if we forget what Jesus was really all
to ours.
elevating the idea of Jesus to a place
about.
where it is seen on the cover of catalogs and the front of coffee mugs.
CHRIST OUT OF CHRISTMAS
No, the Christmas story is about God
There is a real war on Christmas. But it won’t play out in advertising, marketing materials or on fast food marquees.
lowering—the theological term is
There is a real danger that one day
The real war on Christmas happens in
“divine condescension”—Himself to our
we will have taken “the Christ out of
each of us when we try to reconcile the
level, and becoming a person who is
Christmas.” But that won’t happen
values of a consumer-driven culture
relatable and knowable. It wasn’t about
when people stop saying “Merry
with the birth of a savior that wants us
making him a cultural icon; it was about
Christmas” in favor of “Happy Holidays”
to let go of the things of this world.
Him becoming an individual we can
or “Season’s Greeting.”
have a relationship with.
And that’s the war we must keep on Christ is “taken out of” Christmas when
What Christians celebrate at Christmas
we forget what His birth—and His
time and what culture celebrates are
life—were all about.
fighting.
increasingly two different things. So why should they be called by the same
It was about caring for the poor.
name?
Giving things away instead of trying to accumulate more. It was about
Giving gifts to the people we love is
loving our neighbors (even ones who
fun. And, many of the traditions we
don’t believe like we do and aren’t
associate with the Christmas are pretty
comfortable recognizing another
harmless. But, conflating our cultural
religion’s holiday) as ourselves.
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