April 2024 Newsletter

Page 10

HIGHLIGHT INFERTILITY & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

ANNE KELLER

Hello North Metro Church,

Spring is here, and I don't know about you, but I always enjoy the beginning of a new season. New beginnings are always an invitation to start over, make a change, or simply enjoy the anticipation of what could be. God is all about making all things new!

There are a lot of things happening this month around NMC, and if you are on the fence, I want to encourage you to consider taking the next step to get involved in some capacity. God did not design your

life to be lived alone. This month, we have one of our favorite outreach opportunities, City Serve Saturday, which is designed for anyone, including you, your kids, your friends, and your family, to all serve together. If you have a student in grades 8-12 we have a spring retreat coming up that will have worship, intentional connections, and biblical teaching. Lastly, our next Hunger Night of Worship is right around the corner on Thursday, April 25, where we will gather to worship God through music and celebrate baptisms.

These are some of my favorite nights, and I encourage you to make plans to be there!

In closing, I just want you to know that I am so grateful for you. I am so glad you are here at NMC whether this is your first Sunday visiting or you have been a faithful family member for years. God is purposeful in all that He does.

Grateful for you,

A NOTE FROM LEAD PASTOR

Rob McDowell

Worship Devotion by Clark Beasley

Clark Beasley serves as Worship Director and is in charge of music for our Sunday morning gatherings. While Clark is passionate about leading others to worship God through music, he is also passionate about God transforming our entire lives to be in worship of Him. Read this month's worship devotion!

Put Down The Stones (Part 2)

Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.

“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.

When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” John 8:1-11 (NLT)

There are three perspectives in this story that I would love for you to consider:

• The woman (we discussed this in last month’s newsletter)

• The crowd

• The teachers of the law and the Pharisees

The crowd, so accustomed to moving to the beat of the religious drum, was looking to see what spectacle the Pharisees and law teachers would bring out for everyone’s amusement today. And Jesus was there - a teacher that many have come to hear once again. But this woman was caught in the very act of adultery. I know that Jesus has been known to come down on the religious leaders, but surely He will be stern with this woman. Surely He will pick up a stone as well. But instead, with one phrase, He instantly puts everyone on equal footing. Instantly, everyone knew they had no defense. They can’t pretend they don’t also have sin. What were they feeling? Scholars can’t agree on what Jesus might have been writing in the dirt, but I like to think that maybe He was writing individual sins that each one in the crowd had committed, calling them all out on their private, yet shameful, actions and decisions.

The Pharisees and teachers, eager to catch Jesus in a condemning mistake, thought for sure they had Him now. He was known for His grace and for keeping company with sinners, but surely He can’t write this one off. Surely we’ve got Him this time. But, wait, what is He writing in the sand about? And all at once, it’s over. He won’t be trapped today.

Throughout the Gospels, every time Jesus spoke, it was always polarizing. His words always came with only two optionsfollow Him or don’t. There was no middle ground. What was Jesus asking of the people in the crowd that day? I believe it was to follow Him in the way of mercy.

It would be another woman, caught in the act of adultery, that would brave the scowls of judgment and the condemnation of the religious elite to say thank you to Jesus. In Luke 7, to give those who didn’t think they needed a Savior a chance to follow Him, Jesus tells a parable that ends with this lesson - those who have been forgiven much love much.

The path to love and forgiveness that Jesus modeled in this story is paved with a recognition of how much we have been forgiven and loved. We did not deserve it, and yet God poured out His forgiveness and love on us. We can do the same with His Spirit living inside us. I love this prayer by Lauren Fortenberry - may it be your prayer whenever you’re faced with someone hard to love…

“When their words cut like a knife. God, help me put down the stones. When their actions break my heart. God, help me put down the stones. When the blood from their own wounds covers me. God, help me put down the stones. Because You have called me to more.

More grace.

More forgiveness.

More peace.

But I can’t get there if my hands are casting stones and pointing fingers.

So, God, give me the strength to let it go. And pray for them instead. Your way is higher.

Guide my hands and my feet in Your will this day.”

In addition to leading our Sunday worship teams, Clark also has organized a partnership between NMC and Rooted Music Coaching, a company providing individual and intentional music lessons to help students of every age thrive in music and life. For more information on what Rooted is about, feel free to reach out to Clark at clark@rootedmusiccoaching.com or visit their website - rootedmusiccoaching.com/westcobb.

and Grow Connect

WELCOME HOME

SUNDAY, APRIL 28 | 11:00AM-12:00PM

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 genuinely believe we are better together. Therefore, we want everyone to circle up with others in a group. We have three different types of groups you can join. Connection Groups 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 assist anyone walking through difficulty or life transition. If you want to join a Connection Group, Community Group, or Care Group, or even start your own group, then check out northmetro.org/groups.

Care

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, fight for you in whatever difficulty you may be experiencing, and celebrate any answered prayers! To share your prayer requests, visit northmetro.org/prayer.

HOME REPAIR ASSISTANCE

NMC has a faithful group of men looking to serve widows, single moms, and other ladies in our church. These men are skilled in most areas of basic home repairs, including plumbing, electrical, and carpentry; however, they are unable to take on major renovations or projects that require county permitting. If you are a single woman needing assistance

with home maintenance or home repairs visit northmetro.org/care to submit your request.

RE:GENERATION

Through His Word, God offers us principles where freedom and new life can be found. Are you hurting, feeling stuck, given up hope for change, or wanting to identify and remove obstacles for a deeper fellowship with God? Wonder why you keep struggling with the same thing day after day, year after year?

re:generation is discipleship for the heart and teaches you how to apply the principles of Scripture to your everyday life. Participants walk through 12 steps of biblical healing in the context of authentic community. If you want to learn how to live

TABLESETTERS

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. 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.

out a "new life in Christ" and find healing in Jesus during your day-to-day life, re:generation is a great place to discover the fullness that Christ alone offers us. Visit northmetro.org/events to learn more about re:generation. We offer re:generation twice a year, beginning in August and January.

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. Couples are discipled and equipped to grow in their walk with Christ and their marriages by studying and

applying biblical principles within a small group structure. We offer re|engage twice yearly, beginning in August and January.

MERGE

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 Merge, our four-week premarital discipleship class. Merge classes are available to those who regularly attend NMC and are already engaged. The next session begins Monday, April 15, from 6:00-9:00pm. Visit northmetro.org/events to learn more and sign up.

FOUNDATION GATHERINGS

The first few years of marriage can be difficult, but they also offer a chance to build healthy patterns into a marriage at a formative stage. Foundation Gatherings are open to married couples who have been married for three years or less. These events occur regularly throughout the year and include dinner, teaching, and a chance to build relationships with other newlywed couples.

Our next gathering is Monday, April 29, at 7:00pm. Registration is required to attend. The cost for dinner is $10/couple, and childcare is available with registration. Visit northmetro.org/events to learn more and sign up.

DIVORCE CARE

Divorce Care is a mix of support and learning for those currently separated or divorced. We understand that divorce can be one of life's most painful trials. 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.

We offer Divorce Care twice yearly, beginning in March and September.

FOSTER & ADOPTION SUPPORT

Scripture urges believers to look after the orphans in our community. One way we do this at NMC is to come around families participating in foster care or adoption. In addition, this group is a place to find support and encouragement from others

who understand these specific challenges. This month's meeting is on Wednesday, April 10, from 6:30-9:00pm.

STEPHEN MINISTRY

Stephen Ministry is a one-on-one care ministry that supports those experiencing difficult times. Stephen Ministers are members of our NMC community, who are well-trained in encouraging others who are enduring painful times such as the loss of a loved one, a marriage, a job, or one's health. If you are facing any of life's difficult circumstances, please consider using a Stephen Minister to help bear your burdens.

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 addiction. Don't let shame keep you from finding help. There is hope as you walk out this journey with other Christ-followers. Visit the Care page on our website to learn more.

INFERTILITY & LOSS SUPPORT

When God calls our hearts to grow our families, He never promises it will be easy, but 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 month's meeting will be on Monday, April 8 at 7:00pm.

MOTHERS AT HEART

SUNDAY, APRIL 21 | 2:00-4:00PM

Mothers at Heart is an event honoring women experiencing infertility, miscarriage, or infant loss. If you have struggled with any of these difficult challenges in growing your family, please join us for coffee and encouragement, and to learn more about our monthly support group. For more information and to sign up for this event, please visit the Events page on our website.

WOMEN’S CANCER SUPPORT

Cancer hits with a terrible punch, whether it’s you, a spouse, parent, sibling, child, or friend. We can't take you out of this storm, but we can walk alongside you and hold

you up when the weight is too heavy. We can be that safe place to let all your feelings fall. We can have the honor of praying continually for you and your family. We can be that safe group of ladies who get it without explanation or apologies; we get it all.

If cancer has affected you in any way, we encourage you to reach out to NMC's Cancer Support Group. You will find an amazing community of brave, strong women who have learned to trust God no matter what because He is trustworthy. This month's meetings will be on Sunday, April 14, and Sunday, April 28, at 12:15pm.

BEAUTY FOR ASHES

Beauty for Ashes is a confidential group designed to encourage and give hope to women whose husbands struggle with sexual addiction. We understand the devastation of a husband's betrayal; however, our goal is not to stay in this place of wounding but to seek the Lord for healing and hope. This month's meetings will be on Thursday, April 11, and Thursday, April 25, at 7:00pm.

For more information or to sign up for any of our Care Ministries, visit our Care page at northmetro.org/care.

NMCU CORE

North Metro Church University (NMCU) is our primary vehicle for studying the Bible together to form a biblical worldview. In NMCU Core, 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. 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 ten weeks and goes in sequential order.

The new semester dates are Tuesday evenings, 7:00-9:00pm, June 11-August 13. We offer in-person groups on Tuesday evenings or on-demand options for your busy summer schedule. Enrollment for 101, 102, 103, and 104 will be open through Sunday, May 26, so be sure to register today. Learn more by visiting northmetro.org/nmcu.

As we continue our 25th anniversary celebration, we reflect with deep gratitude on the incredible years of ministry and the lives Jesus has transformed within our community. Fully dependent on God, we eagerly anticipate what the next 25 years will bring.

Stones of Remembrance Spotlight

This month we are looking back (and looking forward!) to all that God has done through North Metro Church during a time when Rob was the College Pastor of the college ministry known as Echo.

God brought Rob and his family to Georgia to serve as the College Pastor at NMC in 2005 through a series of events, prayer, and moving states. At the same time, God also led Matt Solik to take a Worship Pastor role.

The two of them quickly formed a friendship, and Rob began forming what became Echo. Unbeknownst to them, God was up to something big. The college ministry was named Echo after the verse Isaiah 42:12 “Make God’s glory resound; echo his praises from coast to coast.” Over several years, they saw God start with a small group of students from Kennesaw State University and Southern Poly Tech to weekly gatherings of over 800 students coming to worship God and grow in their relationship with Him.

They shared that back in 2010/2011, our church had been walking through a difficult season, and during that time, God prepared,

to their surprise, a very special night of spontaneous baptism at Echo, where hundreds of students came forward. There was a line starting from the baptismal that went all along the side and to the back of the auditorium. The energy in the room was electric and inspiring. Not only Rob, but small group leaders and best friends helped baptize too many to count - and it was truly a holy moment.

It was a “Stones of Remembrance” moment for the college ministry and all who were involved. In a conversation with Matt and Rob, they shared that the feeling and environment that has happened at the Hunger Nights of Worship this year is similar to what happened that night at Echo. The Holy Spirit is present and palpable. See what God's been doing; mark your calendars for Thursday, April 25, the next Hunger Night of Worship.

Listen to Matt Solik, Rob, and Daniel Hicks tell stories from this Echo Baptism night and all that God has done since then in their podcast episode! Search North Metro Church and look for our Celebrating 25 Years series anywhere that you listen to podcasts.

Matt

We will be celebrating all that God has done in people's lives through baptism on this night. If you are ready to get baptized, whether a child, student, or adult, we'd love to celebrate with you. Learn more about baptisms and sign up for one of our baptism classes.

NMC COLLEGE

Internship Program

Rebecca Ross is our Curriculum Pastor who provides leadership over our College Intern Program. Read along as she and our current interns share about this experience.

Like so many others, my professional story has had lots of exciting and experiential twists and turns that the Lord used to prepare me for this season of vocational ministry at North Metro Church. At one point, someone shoulder-tapped me for an interview, and so my story took another turn from volunteering in a ministry to vocational ministry.

As with any professional arena, our staff members are always on the lookout for hearts and talent to serve and lead in various ministry areas. The Lord has been so kind to bring the people that we currently call staff to support the vision that He gives our lead pastor, Rob McDowell. It is no secret that Rob encourages us to invest in the next generation. Part of that next generation is college students who will one day move into the roles that so many of us currently hold. This is where our current College Internship Program comes into play.

Who is the College Internship Program for?

The College Internship Program is designed for enrolled college 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 help students become more aware of their character, competency, strengths, and weaknesses while increasing their understanding of the disciple-making process. They will be able to explore different ministries behind the scenes and what is needed to make each ministry function and thrive. Our hope is that we can train the next generation for any professional area in the future that they feel called to do. It might be vocational ministry, or they may serve as an elder or board member in their future home church.

What can college students in the program expect?

• Flexibility: This is a paid internship, with hours ranging from 10-20 hours/ week, depending on the student’s schedule, availability, and NMC's office hours.

• Discipleship: Interns attend North Metro Church University, one of NMC’s discipleship tools. This is two hours/week.

• Leadership Development: Interns participate in leadership development for two hours/a week on Monday afternoons. The curriculum and reading changes each year, making the program a continual process of learning more

about vocational ministry.

• Resources: Interns use a MacBook Air that is theirs to keep at the successful completion of the 8-month program.

• Community: Interns have a community not only with the other interns but with other NMC staff members as they get to know them through staff meetings and working alongside them.

How long is the

College Internship Program?

The College Intern Program is about eight months long and designed to allow interns to participate in a variety of ministry seasons throughout the school year. The program starts September 1 and ends April 30. Currently, we have Year 1 and Year 2 interns heading into Year 2 and Year 3 in the fall. We are looking to hire six Year 1 interns for the 2024-2025 school year who will be freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or seniors in the fall of 2024.

What do our interns have to say about the program?

Sure, we think our program is great, but we want you to hear what our interns think. Check out their responses to a few questions and then head to northmetro.org/intern-program for more details on how to apply for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year.

JULZ ABRIL ELIJAH OLIVIA

Q: What caught your eye about applying to the NMC Intern Program?

Julz: When I knew that I would commit to KSU I knew I would need a job. When I thought about what I wanted to do, I knew I wanted to be involved in a church up in Kennesaw. I went onto Handshake and did not expect to find anything churchrelated. However, the very first thing I saw was this internship. I did a lot of research, and knowing that I would be able to see the inner workings of multiple areas of ministry is what caught my eye the most. You didn’t just jump into an area of ministry, you got to experience it all and find out what every area has to offer before decided where to specialize.

Abril: Something that caught my attention while applying to the program was that I would get to work alongside other ministryfocused college students.

Q: Were you nervous about applying to be a NMC intern?

Julz: I was very nervous when I first applied. Knowing that I had no connections in NMC and that I wasn’t from Marietta made me worried, but the process was so easy and everyone I met during my interview process made me feel very welcomed.

Abril: I was somewhat nervous before applying, as per any job, but once I was interviewed I understood that this was unlike any other job.

Q: What are the most valuable lessons you have learned as a NMC Intern?

Julz: The most valuable thing that I have learned while being an intern here is that ministry is about working together as a unit, there truly is no I in team in ministry. Every part of the job is important and is for the kingdom; even something as simple as filling the baptism tub helps advance the kingdom of God. No task is too small, and no person is too big to do it.

Elijah: Before I got to NMC I had never been coached persistently on character

development. I grew up in a sports culture where I had learned to take on constructive criticism about my athletic performance but never my own character. This staff and program have challenged me to improve who I am as a person and to become a better leader, servant to God, and man of God.

Olivia: The most valuable lesson I have learned is that it is okay to make mistakes and ask questions. That’s really what an internship should be— a place that fosters growth, both personally and professionally.

Q: What is a typical work week for you as a NMC intern?

Abril: A typical work week for me as an NMC intern includes Monday meetings for both my ministry area team and my intern team. The rest of the week is usually openended to office hours, depending on the workload I may have that specific week.

Olivia: When I was a first-semester intern, my work week consisted of many different tasks, ranging from cleaning chairs in the kid's ministry to working events. I still do some of those tasks, but I now intern specifically in music/worship, so I am getting into planning set lists and leading worship.

Q: What has been the bestunexpected surprise about being a NMC intern?

Elijah: Community! The NMC staff has built a culture of community amongst its members that I feel propels this place into success. I have personal relationships with dozens of staff members that extend beyond our jobs. I could name many scenarios where I have had great experiences with staff that helped develop a personal relationship beyond the job. All of these experiences make this staff feel like a family more than just a staff member.

Abril: The best-unexpected surprise about being an NMC Intern has been the inclusivity that we are granted within the staff. This means getting to interact often with pastors, directors, and coordinators and sometimes them taking us under their

wing. That is very special to me.

Olivia: The people! I used to be so anxious to talk to people I didn’t know, but the staff and the church body have all made me feel comfortable here. I feel as though I’ve developed socially and in a genuine way. I grew up in church environments where I felt like I couldn’t be myself or have fun around the people in the church, but I have been shown incredible love and friendship here!

Q: Would you recommend this internship to other college students, and why?

Julz: I would 100% recommend this job to other college students. It is so flexible with your schedule and everyone you will encounter will be kind and incredible. You will truly understand the words “we GET to do this”.

Abril: Yes, I would absolutely recommend this internship to other college students. It is great for students looking to expand their knowledge of ministry or even planning to go into vocational ministry themselves. The program is also very open and respectful of a college student’s time and availability.

Q: What are the Monday intern meetings like?

Julz: Monday Intern meetings are some of my favorite times at work. It is always such a joy to sit down with your coworkers and hear all about what they are doing in their specific ministries. Reviewing a book together and hearing everyone's different opinions has been so much fun. These meetings are truly a joy in my week.

Olivia: Monday meetings consist of a check-in on any tasks that need to be done or any information the interns need to know. Once we “check-in,” we talk about the book we are reading together (we have all really enjoyed the book we are reading right now!). Often, staff members will be guest speakers in our meetings. They tell us about their stories as people and as Christians and what they do in the church.

Head to northmetro.org/intern-program for more details on how to apply for the upcoming 20242025 school year. Be sure to mention this article to college students you know in our area.

ANNE KELLER

Infertility & Loss: Staying Tethered to Christ During Uncertainty and Pain

Starting or expanding a family is supposed to be a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and joy – but for many, the opposite turns out to be true.

Anne and Chris Keller met and married at North Metro Church over 13 years ago. Already in their thirties, they knew they wanted to have children immediately. But they quickly faced infertility when Anne had trouble getting pregnant.

Within months, they were immersed in difficult and high-stress fertility treatments. Anne continued to struggle with conceiving, miscarrying multiple times in the process.

To make matters worse, Anne didn’t know anyone she could turn to. She joined an infertility support group through her clinic, but it wasn’t Christian-based. Without a clear emphasis on God and His role in her

circumstances, Anne felt lost, angry, and confused.

“My husband and I got married later in life,” Anne says. “By that point, all my friends were married with kids. I was always last on everything and now we were dealing with infertility, too. I was bitter, envious, and depressed. People around me didn’t understand. And my biggest issue was trying to figure out where God was in all this. I felt a level of pain I had never felt before. So, I was just trying to fight through and stay connected to Him.”

Finding a Safe Space with Christian Believers

Luckily, a close friend of Anne’s invited her to an infertility support group at her church. Anne accepted and began attending meetings – and it was just what she needed. She quickly found a community that not only understood what she was going through but could also walk beside her as believers in Christ.

So, when NMC launched their own support group years later, Anne didn’t hesitate. She joined immediately, eager to help and encourage women in her home church.

“When I started treatments, I didn’t know anyone else facing infertility,” Anne says. “People in my life loved me and tried to support me, but even their best efforts didn’t help. You can only understand someone so much -unless you’ve walked in their shoes. My pain was deep and raw, and I needed a safe place to process. So, when the Infertility & Loss Support group started at NMC, I knew I needed to be involved. I wanted to give back and walk alongside others on the same journey.”

Now a group leader, Anne underscores the importance of Christian community for believers struggling through infertility and loss.

“The beauty of the Infertility & Loss Support group is we understand,” Anne says. “You can express raw emotions

without fear of judgment. It’s okay to struggle in your faith. But it’s important to stay tethered to God and other believers so the devil doesn’t get a foothold in your pain and entice you to walk away. So, we pick you up when you can’t pick yourself up. We help point you back to God, no matter what you bring to the table.”

Walking Through Heartache in the Journey

However, despite finding the spiritual care and compassion she needed, Anne’s experience with infertility and loss spanned nearly a decade and was fraught with uncertainty and heartache. She emphasizes the journey is anything but easy.

While attending her first Christian support group, Anne eventually became pregnant and gave birth to her oldest son. After his arrival, Anne and Chris tried fertility treatments again, knowing their family wasn’t complete. To their despair, they were met with more devastating miscarriages and failed pregnancy attempts.

Then they pivoted and tried adoption, but over 35 expecting mothers passed over their profiles. Heartbroken, Anne, and Chris turned back to their fertility clinic one last time.

As she began her role as a support group leader at NMC, Anne became pregnant

once again and gave birth to her youngest son. Anne and Chris continued to long for another child, but now in their forties, they knew time and age were not on their side.

Reluctantly, they decided to stop fertility treatments, even though they yearned to become parents one more time.

“I wish I could say I’m fully healed, but I’m not,” Anne says. “Even though my journey is over, everything isn’t magically OK. Infertility affects you physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. And there isn’t always a pretty bow at the end of it. For us, we will always mourn not having a third child. I’m fighting through that and growing and repairing my relationship with God. But there is a recovery period, and I’m still there. I may always be there.”

Slowly Healing with Christ and Community

Today, although they love their sons immensely and delight in their role as parents, Anne and Chris still struggle with the aftermath of infertility. The pain of multiple losses and unmet expectations continues to run deep.

But for Anne, there is also purpose in the pain. She knows the Lord is using her experience with infertility and loss to minister to others for His kingdom and His glory – while she slowly heals as well.

“With infertility and loss, you’re at the complete mercy of God,” Anne says. “It’s the most refining spiritual time I’ve ever been through. But looking back, I can see His goodness and faithfulness. He blessed me and sent people my way when I needed them most. So, I may not like what I’ve been through, but my prayer has always been that God would not let my pain go to waste. And He hasn’t. I thrive on encouraging others, and now I can be there for the next person who needs love and support.“

Most notably, Anne stresses that there’s no time limit on how long someone needs to process, grieve, or mourn – but NMC’s Infertility & Loss support group is there to help.

“Infertility and loss are exhausting and wearing,” Anne says. “It’s truly spiritual warfare. You’re in a battle for your heart, mind, body, and soul. If you’re out there suffering, please step out in faith and let us come alongside you. Don’t walk this journey alone. Whatever you feel and however long it takes, it’s okay. You’re safe and welcome here.”

If infertility and loss are part of your story, we want to walk alongside you. Learn more about our Infertility and Loss Group and how to join it at northmetro.org/care.

Upcoming for you

BAPTISM CLASS

SUNDAY, APRIL 28 | 11:00AM

One of our favorite things here at NMC is celebrating life change through water baptism. If you’re ready to take this step in your faith journey, we invite you to attend the next adult baptism class. For more information about our beliefs on baptism and to sign up for the class, visit northmetro.org/baptism.

INDUCTIVE BIBLE STUDY CLASS

APRIL 21 & 28 | 2:00-4:30PM

Would you like to feel more confident in your approach to studying the Bible on your own or in a small group? Join us for a free 2-week class at NMC to learn how to read and study your Bible. Join our very own Jess Magee in two fun and practical classes to learn the Inductive Bible Study Method - a time-proven strategy to learn how to study the Bible that will leave you challenged but more comfortable engaging with your Bible. For more details, FAQs, and to register today, check out this event at northmetro.org/events.

MOBILIZATION

CITY

SERVE SATURDAY

SATURDAY, APRIL 13 | 8:15AM

Join us on Saturday, April 13, for a time of serving and loving our community. We will serve Calvary Children's Home and pack lunches for The Table on Delk (a kid-friendly opportunity), as well as build welcome kits for the House of Cherith. At NMC, we believe we're all "on mission" all the time. As we go, each daily interaction is a mission opportunity. In everything we do, you'll consistently hear that we are here to help people find and follow Jesus, and we do this by becoming carriers of the Gospel across the street and around the world. We engage with everyone in and outside of our circles in a way that if NMC ceased to exist, we (not the building but the body of Christ) would be missed. We look forward to seeing you there! Sign up by visiting northmetro.org/events.

CITY SERVE WEEK

JUNE 1-JUNE 8

Invest in the renewal of our city and love others at City Serve. City Serve is a weeklong mission project that offers multiple ministry opportunities across our city at

different times and locations. Grab your family or a few friends, and sign up for a project.

City Serve is a short-term mission project in our city that will include multiple projects with varying start times, lengths, and locations. This church-wide event will allow NMC members to love others. You can serve our Mobilization and Serve partners through outreach projects, including sharing the Gospel, homeless outreach, landscaping, light construction, distributing food, and much more. Find an opportunity for you and sign up at northmetro.org/serve

WAYMARK ROYAL FAMILY KIDS CAMP

JUNE 1-7

Since 2008, Waymark has provided a oneweek, overnight camp for children ages 6-12 in the foster care system. These camps serve to create positive memories and instill the truth that they are loved, valued and God has a plan and purpose for their life. Children experience activities such as swimming, fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing, canoeing, Chapel, and team games, as well as specialized activities such as “Everybody’s birthday party,” a Superhero Event for the boys, and a Princess Ball among many others. Children receive a memory bag, Bible, photo album, and mail throughout the week. You can serve at an activity, for a day or the week, and/ or sponsor a child to go camping! Connect with our Mobilization Director, Bud Darr, at bdarr@northmetro.org to get involved.

LYDIA CIRCLE SEWS

MONDAY, APRIL 29 | 9:00AM

Did you know that girls in Africa miss days of school and/or work each month due to a lack of hygiene supplies? Many girls are forced to stay in their homes because of their monthly menstrual cycle causing them to fall behind in school or go without earned wages. Though we in the Western world cannot relate to this common challenge, there is an easy solution where we can help!

The women of North Metro Church sew and assemble feminine hygiene kits that are sustainable, reusable products that give African women the freedom to stay engaged in their everyday life. These kits are then personally distributed to women

in East Africa through NMC's mobilization partner, Lydia Circle Ministries. Lydia Circle has hand-delivered hundreds of these kits over the past several years!

Join us at our next Lydia Circle Sews event! There are plenty of ways to help without using a sewing machine, so don’t let a lack of sewing experience keep you from linking arms with NMC women to serve girls in Africa! Sign up to join us by visiting northmetro.org/serve.

CIRCLES USA

Did you know that here in Cobb County, over 17% of our children live below the poverty line? The ramifications of poverty are heartbreaking and can include homelessness, food insecurity, and children being removed from their homes and entering the foster care system simply because their families cannot afford to care for them adequately. Circles USA works to move families out of poverty. You can be involved in this work in many ways, including offering a meal, becoming an ally, and so much more. To serve with Circles USA, go to northmetro.org/serve.

CHARACTER EDUCATION

MENTORING AT KENNESAW MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

You can invest in the next generation by becoming a mentor to encourage students every month at Kennesaw Mountain High School. 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 Jill Stewart at jstewart@northmetro.org or check out the details at northmetro.org/serve.

NMC KIDS

CITY SERVE SATURDAY

SATURDAY, APRIL 13 | 8:15AM-12:00PM

Parents, we are having a City Serve Saturday (formally Family Saturday Serve) dedicated to NMC Kids and their families on the morning of Saturday, April 13! Everyone will join together for breakfast, worship, and a devotional that

will be catered to all ages. Parents are required to attend with their children. We will be building snack packs for families at The Table on Delk. We have created an Amazon Wishlist including all the items in the snack pack. Anyone, whether you can be at the Family Saturday Serve or not, is invited to buy supplies off of the Amazon Wishlist! There is also an option to serve at Calvary Children's Home. To learn more and to register for this City Serve Saturday, go to northmetro.org/events.

SPECIAL NEEDS RESPITE NIGHT

FRIDAY, APRIL 19 | 5:30-8:30PM

NMC will host its fifth respite night for families of children with special needs and their siblings. This event will allow NMC to serve not only kids and students but also their caregivers. Parents will have a chance for a night out while their children will get to have a night of fun on the NMC campus. Are you interested in serving our families in the special needs ministry for this respite event? Head over to our events page to see a full list of serving opportunities for this event. The deadline to sign up to serve is Friday, April 12. Sign up and learn more at northmetro.org/events.

ELEMENTARY BAPTISM CLASS

SUNDAY, APRIL 21 | 9:15-10:00AM

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.

SPECIAL NEEDS PARENT BRUNCH

SUNDAY, APRIL 28 | 11:00AM-12:00PM

This is an opportunity for parents who have children with special needs to get together and form community. Pastries and coffee will be provided during the 11:00am service. Register at northmetro.org/events.

NMC KIDS AT THE PARK

SATURDAY, MAY 4 | 10:00AM-12:00PM

We're taking Town Square out of the building for some games, popsicles, and a whole lot of fun. You'll find Mobi and us from 10:00am-to 12:00pm at Lost Mountain Park (4845 Dallas Hwy, Powder Springs, GA 30127), and we'd love to see you there! There is no cost or sign-up for

your

family

this event, so invite your friends and family and stop in anytime.

TOWN SQUARE TABLE TALKER

MARCH/APRIL DISCIPLESHIP TOOL

The Town Square Table Talker is back! This is a discipleship tool designed by the NMC Kids team to intentionally equip families to connect around the table. The activities and devotions you'll find in the table talker come from the Gospel Project curriculum we use in the classrooms. This means you can connect what you do at home with what your kids do in the classroom. But it's not all curriculum; you'll also find silly games, get-to-knowyou questions, and family challenges. You are your child's first teacher and the first person to disciple your child. We hope the Town Square Table Talker is just the tool you need to take your family relationships to the next level. Grab yours today in the NMC Kids Ministry, Town Square.

STUDENTS

SHIFT

SUNDAYS | 9:15AM & 11:00AM

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 Shift Room.

SHIFT NIGHTS

2ND & 4TH WEDNESDAYS | 6:30-8:00PM

Friendships and an incredible community can profoundly shape our students' lives. We want to invite our 5-7th students and their friends to our Shift Nights on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month to have time to build additional community and stronger friendships with other students in Shift. Join us for everything from movie nights to large group games. These nights are always free, and dinner is provided. Drop off your students at the Cafe doors and have them meet us in the Shift Room or Theater.

COMPASS

SUNDAYS | 6:30-8:30PM

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 know about upcoming services and events, or check out the schedule online at northmetro.org.

COMPASS SPRING RETREAT 2024

APRIL 19-21

Calling all 8-12th grade students! From Friday through Sunday, April 19-21, join us for an unforgettable experience at our upcoming Compass SPRING Retreat. This will be an incredible opportunity for powerful worship, lasting connections, and spiritual growth. From ziplines to crazy shenanigans, this retreat will encourage you to stay Father-Focused. The last day to sign up is Friday, April 5. You won’t want to miss it! The last day to apply for a scholarship is April 3. To learn more and sign up, head to northmetro.org/events.

COLLEGE

COLLEGE BIBLE STUDY GROUP

TUESDAYS | 6:45-8:30PM

College students, join us on-campus under the outdoor Pavilion for our NMC College Bible Study Group. We will experience community, dive deep into Bible study, and share a meal! This is a place for you, no matter what your walk with God looks like. For more details, visit northmetro.org/college.

PAID COLLEGE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

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 learn more about 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. In addition, they will have the opportunity to explore different ministries behind the scenes and what is needed to make each ministry function and thrive. If you're interested in applying for the 2024-2025 school year, check out northmetro.org/intern-program or email Rebecca Ross at rross@northmetro.org for more details.

Ivan Mijango Casa del Redentor Director

An update from Ivan Mijango. Redeemer's House, or Casa del Redentor, is North Metro Church's international ministry in Panajachel, Guatemala.

God Always Has a Plan

Over the last ten years, Casa del Redentor has focused on serving children who, upon becoming teenagers, would stop attending our programs. Last year, we decided to embark on something new. Instead of saying goodbye when they turned 14, we launched what we call the "Discipleship Program," aimed at youth aged 13 to 17, meeting once a week in Panajachel.

Originally, the idea was for both boys and girls to attend, but to our surprise, only girls signed up. However, each and every one of them attended every Friday without missing a single day. We had the opportunity to guide them through the FreshStart process, work all year to raise money to help firefighters purchase a new water pump, and many other fun things.

Fridays became my favorite day of the week because I had the opportunity to share a lesson or message with the girls, and every week I could see how their hearts were softening and the Word could penetrate deeper and deeper. There was a time when I felt I couldn't go on because I had to drive the rest of the staff to Xecotoj since we had our programs there with another group of children, then return to Panajachel, share the lesson, and drive back to Xecotoj to pick up the teachers who had been teaching there. It was exhausting, and I even wondered if it was worth making that effort, but Paola (our Bible teacher), who was my assistant in this program, convinced me to continue teaching each week because it was important for the girls.

What's the point of all this? This year, thanks to the addition of Elvys (our new multi-task guy) to our staff, I no longer have to rush back and forth, and it's Elvys who teaches in the discipleship program. But guess what, after having nine girls last year, this year we have 20 teenagers. We've doubled in size, and each week, they invite more friends to join, and they keep coming. Even though sometimes I felt I wasn't doing much, every seed we planted and every seed God looked over and grew is now bearing fruit, and doubly so.

I want to encourage you not to give up. If you feel you're not doing something useful, important, or necessary, keep going. Plant the seed as many times as necessary because even if you don't get to see the fruits, you are making a difference.

We get to partner with Redeemer's House to help people find and follow Jesus in Guatemala because of your obedience in giving. To get involved, you can go to northmetro.org/serve.

2025 GOALS

As we head toward 2025, we are praying our guts out and are entirely 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.

GOAL #1: HELP 1,000 PEOPLE FIND JESUS

PEOPLE FOUND 189

PEOPLE ENROLLED IN NMCU 1,428

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.

GOAL #2: HELP 1,000 PEOPLE ENROLL IN NMCU

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 share their beliefs with others ultimately. NMCU creates disciples that make disciples.

GOAL #3:

6

Expand the Kingdom of God through five new church plants nationally and/or globally Church plants are an expression of our multiplication strategy, multiplying the mission to help people find and follow Jesus.

YTD February 2024

Income: $5,364,700.26 Expense: $3,818,179.21 Over(under): $1,546,521.05

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APRIL AT A GLANCE

Sunday, April 7

All Things Hold Together 9:15am & 11:00am

Saturday, April 13

City Serve Saturday 8:15am-12:00pm

Sunday, April 14

All Things Hold Together 9:15am & 11:00am

Follow us on Social Media! @wearenorthmetro

North Metro Church

2305 Ernest Barrett Pkwy

Marietta, GA 30064 info@northmetro.org 678.290.7830

Friday, April 19

Special Needs Respite Night 5:30-8:30pm

Compass Retreat Begins

Sunday, April 21

All Things Hold Together 9:15am & 11:00am

Elementary Baptism Class 9:15-10:00am

Sunday, April 28

All Things Hold Together 9:15am & 11:00am

Welcome Home 11:00am-12:00pm

Adult Baptism Class 11:00am-12:00pm

Special Needs Parent Brunch 11:00am-12:00pm