Keeping you informed and connected September 2022 ISSUE STEPHENHIGHLIGHTMINISTRY HIGHLIGHT: LESA RUSSELL Page 06
ComeReally?on - it's still 100 degrees! Why Kroger, why?
This month we are starting our 2nd year with NMCU, and I have been blown away by how God has used this in our church body. My prayer, along with the entire staff, is that we all continue to grow in our knowledge of God's Word, believing that His Word transforms us and bears fruit. God's word does not return void. Therefore, I know He is going to use NMCU to help people find and follow Jesus. Here at NMC, our ministry year mirrors the school calendar, so as many of you head back to school, we are also kicking off our new year. I am so excited about what God has in store for us this year. Thanks so much for being an awesome church family! MaggardJohn
Seriously though, I distinctly remember this time last year when our church launched NMCU. I don't get to share this story often, but many of us on staff were hoping we might see 100 people register for NMCU. That was literally our internal goal for last fall. Little did we know that God had something much larger in mind with over 904 of you jumping into NMCU 101!
A NOTE FROM
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Hey North Metro Church! As fall approaches, I can't help but think of all the beautiful colors and how they mix together this time of year. The bright yellow school bus mixing with the deep browns of a football can only equal one thing - the orange ceramic pumpkins already out at Kroger??
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Connect & Grow
11:30AM-12:30PM
Welcome Home SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 |
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Welcome Home is designed to help you learn about everything that makes up North Metro Church and give you the next steps on how you can belong to our family. Visit northmetro.org/events to learn more and sign up. Groups At NMC, we truly believe that we are better together. For that reason, we desire for everyone to circle up with others in a group. We have three different types of groups that you can be a part of. They include Connection Groups, that meet over shared interests such as hiking, board games, or movies. Community Groups meet for fellowship, prayer, and study of the Bible, and Care Groups provide assistance to anyone walking through difficulty or life transition. If you are looking to join a Connection Group, Community Group, Care Group, or even start your own group, then we have made it easier than ever. Check out the options for joining men's, women's, and co-ed groups by visiting northmetro. org/groups.
Tablesetters. Our goal is for everyone to experience the joy of serving others as a Tablesetter and serve somewhere within our church. Regardless of your schedule, experience, or gifting, there’s a fulfilling place for you to serve here! Visit northmetro. org/serve to browse opportunities and take the next step to serve.
When we serve others, we set the table for them to experience the grace of God. That’s why around here, we call our volunteers
Tablesetters
When God calls our hearts to grow our families, He never promises that it will be easy. He does promise to lead when we are lost. Take refuge in knowing you’re not alone. If you struggle with infertility or have experienced miscarriage or infant loss, there’s a place for you. This group meets monthly at NMC on the second Monday at 7:00pm.
Strong, healthy marriages start long before the wedding. To build a marriage that lasts and gets off to a great start, we encourage all engaged couples to participate in our premarital discipleship class, Merge. Classes meet Sunday afternoons for three hours on three consecutive Sundays. The Merge class is available to those who regularly attend North Metro Church and who are already engaged. The next class meets Sunday, October 9, 16, and 23.
INFERTILITY & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
PURE DESIRE Pure Desire is a men's ministry that provides hope, freedom, and healing from sexual brokenness through Jesus Christ. Through this group, you will understand how family of origin and trauma impact your behavior, how addiction affects brain chemistry, and develop a plan to create freedom from your addiction. Don't let shame keep you from finding help, and know that there is hope as you walk out this journey with other Christ-followers. re|engage re|engage is a marriage enrichment ministry designed for couples ready to invest time and energy into building a stronger marriage. Through a mix of large group teaching and small group discussion, you and your spouse are challenged and encouraged with practical ways to apply the gospel of Jesus to your marriage. By studying and applying biblical principles within a small group structure, couples are discipled and equipped to grow in their walk with Christ and in their marriages.
FRESH START If you've been hurt or wounded by someone close to you and feelings of resentment, bitterness, and hurt still crop up in your life, maybe you need a Fresh Start. Fresh Start is an interactive process with a small group of women or men utilizing biblical principles to help you become Forgiven, Forgiving, and Free.
PRAYER Prayer is powerful. It's one of the most important things we can do as a church. Our staff and leadership would love to come alongside you and fight for you in whatever difficulty you may be experiencing and also celebrate any answered prayers! To share your prayer requests, visit northmetro.org/ prayer.
WOMEN'S CANCER SUPPORT
BEAUTY FOR ASHES
STEPHEN MINISTRY
Stephen Ministry is a one-on-one care ministry that provides support for those experiencing difficult times. Stephen Ministers are members of our North Metro community who are well trained in encouraging others enduring painful times such as the loss of a loved one, a marriage, a job, or one's health. If you find yourself walking through any of life's difficult circumstances, please consider using our Stephen Ministry to help bear your burdens.
Scripture urges believers to look after the orphans in our community. One way we do this at NMC is to come around families that are in the foster care or adoption process. This group is a place to find support and encouragement from other people who understand these specific challenges. Meetings are on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 6:30pm. For more information or to sign up for any of our Care Ministries, visit our Care page at northmetro.org/care.
Beauty for Ashes is a confidential group designed to provide encouragement and hope to women whose husbands struggle with sexual addiction. We understand the devastation of a husband's betrayal; however, our goal is to not stay in this place of wounding but to seek the Lord for healing and hope. This group meets twice a month on the second and fourth Thursdays at 7:00pm.
MENTORINGPREMARITAL
We understand hearing the diagnosis of cancer is scary and life-changing. The Women's Cancer Support group was created to help both patients and caregivers through this challenging journey with honesty and hope. If you've recently been diagnosed, are a survivor, or are a caregiver, this group is for you. Group meetings are in-person, with digital options, and meet on the second and fourth Sundays of the month at 1:00pm.
FOTER & SUPPORTADOPTION
DIVORCE CARE Divorce Care is a mix of both support and learning for those currently separated or divorced. We believe that divorce is one of life's most painful trials, and while God hates divorce, He doesn't hate divorced people. Our Divorce Care ministry is led by individuals who understand what you're experiencing and will support you as you move forward. Through Divorce Care, you will learn how to deal with the heartache of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. Our next class will begin on Sunday, September 11, from 4:00-6:00pm.
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SPOTLIGHT PAGE 6
Lesa Russell
For almost 20 years, North Metro Church has had a dedicated team of Stephen Ministers ready to help you through life’s tough times. Regardless of the circumstances, they’ve been trained to help you through a job loss, death of a family member or friend, trouble in relationships, struggles with a prodigal child, or a difficult marriage. These are just a few of the many situations North Metro Stephen Ministers face as God has called them to help others through one-on-one spiritual and emotional care.
In 2015, Lesa Russell answered God’s call to become a Stephen Minister after thinking about it for a while. For seven years, Lesa has experienced the joys and challenges of walking with others as they find God’s direction through tough times. Here’s what she has to say about her experience.
How do you think Stephen Ministers are helpful to those they serve?
Why did you become a Stephen Minister?
I am amazed when I see God working through me as I walk with another woman during a difficult time in her life. That is the BEST part of being an SM! I invite God to be a part of each meeting with my care receivers, and, of course, He shows up “Big Time”. His presence is always felt. When I follow His lead, words of comfort and peace flow. There is no way it can come from me. I also like to see up close how God can transform lives. In situations where you just can’t believe how we humans can make such a mess and then see God turn it all around for the good…. it is mind-blowing!
About 25 years ago, I felt God plant the “seed” for me to pursue Stephen Ministry (SM). That seed lay dormant until October 2014, when Rob mentioned SM in his message. After that, there was no question that now was the time for me to serve. Being an SM allows me a great way to love others. What do you like about being a Stephen Minister?
"Walking with others as they find God’s direction through tough times."
What is your advice to someone considering becoming a Stephen Minister?
Get ready for a rewarding and challenging adventure!
For more information and an application for our Stephen Ministry program, visit northmetro.org/care. Interested women can also contact Virginia Blackwell at 678-665-8277, and interested men can contact Gary Eisla at 678-378-0412.
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Through the month of September, we will be recruiting new Stephen Ministers to join our team of 21 existing Stephen Ministers and begin training in January of 2023. Prior to training, each candidate will be asked to complete an application for the ministry, followed by interviews.
The SM training is intense but very valuable. Upon completion of the training, you will have the skills and tools to handle all kinds of situations. These skills also come in handy for everyday life. Even though you are highly trained, there will be moments when feelings of inadequacy will creep in. That’s when you will rely on the support of your fellow Stephen Ministers. Your group will love, affirm and encourage you and remind you that you are the Care Giver and God is the Cure Giver.
Stephen Ministers listen. I have learned that people just want to be heard. We all want to know that our feelings are valid and that we are important. When a Care Receiver meets with her SM, it is “all about her”. We are called to comfort the hurting and establish a relationship built on trust and confidentiality. But most importantly, we encourage Care Receivers to depend on God.
SATURDAY SERVE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 | 8:30AM Saturday Serve is a great opportunity for you, your family, or those you’re in a Community Group with to serve consistently throughout the year. Breakfast will be provided in the NMC Cafe at 8:15am, followed by a time of prayer before we go out to serve.We will serve with Waymark, MUST Ministries, First Care Women's Clinic, and Goshen. Sign up by visiting northmetro.org/serve.
Another way to regularly involve children and/or teens is through Waymark's Community4Youth Mentoring program, which includes one-on-one and group mentoring (Compass Groups).
MARIETTA MENTORING FOR LEADERSHIP
WAYMARK COMMUNITY4YOUTH
WAYMARK JOURNEY WEEKEND, OCTOBER 7-9
Community4Youth mentorship program provides a support system for kids in foster care through connections made with caring adults. Connect with our Mobilization Director, Bud Darr, at bdarr@northmetro.org to get involved.
You can invest in the next generation by becoming a mentor to encourage students on a monthly basis at Kennesaw Mountain High School (KMHS). As a mentor, you'll help facilitate the social-emotional curriculum, Habitudes, by Dr. Tim Elmore. This is an opportunity to engage students in the public-school environment, where they spend so much time - all while equipping them with tools for healthy leadership in their world and the world around them. Take the next step by emailing Rebecca Ross at rross@northmetro.org or check out the details at northmetro.org/serve.
Walk Worthy, our NMC women’s podcast and On the Clock, our NMC men’s podcast are kicking off their new seasons this fall. Don’t miss any of these inspiring episodes by subscribing through Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
The community of Marietta has heard the voice of its young people, who identified the need for the school to not only be a place where students learn academically, but also be a place where the issues of life meet real solutions. Marietta Student Life Center provides in-school services related to housing, job skill development, job placement for students and families, college admission support services, and more. This is an opportunity to engage with students in a one-to-one mentoring relationship or as a Group Mentor, which is ideal for people who thrive in a small group setting, who can build rapport with teens and can be active listeners. Take the next step by emailing our Mobilization Director, Bud Darr, at bdarr@northmetro.org.
NMCU North Metro Church University is our primary vehicle for studying the Bible together in order to form a biblical worldview. In NMCU, you'll move through a set sequence of classes and learn about the big picture of Scripture and how everything in Scripture points to and is fulfilled in Jesus. And in this learning process, NMCU will also help equip you to both understand and communicate your faith to others so that you can become a more faithful follower of Jesus; a disciple who makes disciples. Each semester offered is a 10-week period and goes in sequential order. Our enrollment for the fall semester has closed; however, if you're interested in signing up for one of our in-person groups or ondemand options, sign-ups for the JanuaryMarch semester start November 27. Learn more by visiting northmetro.org/nmcu.
MOBILIZATION
This weekend camp is for teens ages 12-17 in foster care. These camps serve to create positive memories, instill a sense of purpose and value, and teach teens that they are special, loved, and that God has a plan for their lives. The children participate in all the fun camp activities such as swimming, fishing, canoeing, chapel time, and team games. In addition, we celebrate with specialized activities such as “Everybody’s Birthday Party,” a Superhero Night for the boys, and a Princess Ball, among many others. We are looking for men and women to help as counselors (Big Campers), core staff, as well as activity team members. Training is required for this event. Another way to make a life-changing impact is to contribute towards camper scholarships ($300 per teen). To learn more about our two training options, how to give, and how to sign up, go to northmetro.org/serve.
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NMC WALKPODCASTS:WORTHY&
CHARACTER EDUCATION MENTORING AT KENNESAW MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL
ON THE CLOCK
SHIFT NIGHTS SECOND AND FOURTH WEDNESDAYS | 6:30-8:00PM
STUDENTS MIDDLE SCHOOL - SHIFT 9:30AM & 11:30AM Shift is our environment for 5-7th grade students. Through teaching, worship, games, and connections in small groups, we help students find and follow Jesus.We meet during all Sunday morning worship services in the upstairs Shift Room.
NEW! PAID COLLEGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM BEGINS SOON! The College Internship Program is a paid internship designed for enrolled college students. This program is for students who want to understand and experience all the inner workings of the local church to decide if they want to pursue vocational ministry. It’s designed to make them more aware of their character, competency, strengths, and weaknesses while increasing their understanding of the disciple-making process. They will have the opportunity to explore different ministries behind the scenes and what is needed to make each ministry function and thrive. The application deadline is fast-approaching, so apply today. Check out northmetro.org/intern-program or email Rebecca Ross at rross@northmetro.org for more details.
COLLEGE COLLEGE BIBLE STUDY GROUP THURSDAY EVENINGS| 6:45 - 8:45PM College students, join us for our new NMC College Bible Study Group. We will experience community, dive deep into Bible study, and share a meal together! Whether you're far from God or near in your walk, this is the place. For more details, visit northmetro.org/college.
ELEMENTARY BAPTISM CLASS
Worldview.”
HELPING CHILDREN DEVELOP A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 | 1:00-2:00PM
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KIDS SPECIAL NEEDS PARENT TO PARENT WORKSHOP WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 | 7:00-8:00PM
UpcomingYou
Learn what worldview is, why it matters, and how to help a child develop a biblical worldview by teaching four foundational biblical truths. Participants will learn to identify strong cultural messages that threaten to distort and destroy faith in Christ. This class will help you gain confidence and equip you to have intentional conversations with children so that they develop deep, lasting, and culture-transforming faith. This class is based on Josh Mulvihill’s book, “Biblical Visit northmero.org/events to learn more and sign up today!
HIGH SCHOOL - COMPASS 7:00-8:30PM Compass is our environment for 8-12th grade students. Through teaching, worship, events, and small groups, we help students find and follow Jesus. Follow us on Instagram @nmcstudents to stay in the know of upcoming services and events, or check out the schedule online at northmetro.org.
Learn how to use effective communication skills to develop a partnership with your child's IEP/IFSP team. Get tips for preparing for school meetings and how to be an effective member of the team. For more information, visit the events page at northmetro.org.
NMC KIDS NIGHT OUT TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 | 6:00-8:00PM Kids Night Out is an event designed for 1st4th grade students and their small group leaders to get outside of a typical Sunday morning environment and have some fun together! This year we’ll be at Sparkles Family Fun Center in Kennesaw for pizza, playground, arcade games, skating, and laser tag. The price of this event is $20 and includes a $10 arcade card. Space is limited. Sign-ups will end when the event is full or at midnight on September 18, whichever occurs first. Visit northmero.org/events to sign up today!
Take your Sunday small group experience and friendships to the next level by participating in our small group gatherings. The night consists of dinner, games, and community. It is our hope that the relationships you build in your small group will take you all the way through high school. Check out the calendar at northmetro.org/shift to find out more. These are free events, and dinner will be provided.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 | 9:30-10:15AM This 45-minute class is designed for you and your child to attend together. If your elementary-aged child has already taken the step of salvation, this class is the perfect next step! For more information on the baptism process, visit northmetro.org/events.
Lock arms and be encouraged Monday, October 3 | 7:00-9:00pm Tuesday, October 4 | 7:00-9:00pm
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Men and women of NMC, join us for our upcoming Man Church and Women's Gathering events! Need to be inspired? Need to be encouraged? Need to find a community to circle up with? That is what Man Church and Women's Gathering is all about.
The men will be encouraged by Dr. Crawford Loritts on Monday, and his wife, Karen Loritts, will share an amazing word with our women on Tuesday night. So ladies and gentlemen, do not miss out on these nights that are crafted to inspire and encourage you as you faithfully follow Jesus. Find more details and sign up by visiting the Events page at northmetro.org.
Men, join us for an incredible night of food, fellowship, worship, and the word on Monday, October 3, and women, join us on Tuesday, October 4, both from 7:009:00pm.
As we head toward the year 2025 we are praying our guts out and being fully dependent on the Lord! He has entrusted us with our vision, to “Be Missed,” and our mission, “We Help People Find and Follow Jesus.” To live that out, we have set three God-sized goals to aim for as a church.
We’re telling our friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers about our great God who loves us immeasurably more than we can imagine. We want to celebrate with you if you’ve played a part in helping someone move from death to life or if you came to faith in Christ! We invite you to share your story by visiting the Contact Us page at northmetro.org.
PEOPLE ENROLLED IN NMCUPEOPLE1,428FOUND53 2025FINANCIALSUMMARYGOALS GOAL #1: HELP 1,000 PEOPLE FIND JESUS GOAL #2: HELP 1,000 PEOPLE ENROLL IN NMCU GOAL EXPAND#3:THE KINGDOM OF GOD THROUGH FIVE NEW CHURCH PLANTS NATIONALLY AND/OR GLOBALLY YTD July 2022 Income: Over(under):Expense:519,145.74326,013.22193,132.52
Before Jesus left the disciples, He said, “Go make disciples.” A tangible way to see that hope realized is through our discipleship program, NMCU. We’re looking to see 1,000 people faithfully following Jesus, equipped with knowledge of Scripture, to ultimately share their beliefs with others. NMCU creates disciples that make disciples.
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Church plants are an expression of our multiplication strategy, multiplying the mission to help people find and follow Jesus.
Sunday, September 4 According to Mark Week 26 9:30am & 11:30am Sunday, September 11 According to Mark Week 27 9:30am & 11:30am NMCU Kickoff 4:00pm Sunday, September 18 According to Mark Week 28 9:30am & 11:30am Tuesday, September 20 Kids Night Out 6:00pm Sunday, September 25 According to Mark Week 29 9:30am & 11:30am Welcome Home 11:30am Adult Baptism Class 11:30am North Metro Church 2305 Ernest Barrett Pkwy Marietta, GA 678.290.7830info@northmetro.org30064 Follow us on Social Media! @wearenorthmetro Stay in the loop with all things NMC. Join our email mailing list! ( SCAN THE CODE TO BE ADDED ) Sep tember at a glance
