February is a meaningful month for our nation and our church as we observe Black History Month. For followers of Jesus, it is a special opportunity to celebrate and value the remarkable diversity that God has designed in the world. Acts 17:26 reminds us that God created every nation of humanity from one man, and Revelation 5:9 proclaims that Jesus has redeemed people from every tribe, language, people, and nation through His sacrifice.
In recent years, our church community has been blessed with growing diversity, and we are deeply grateful for God’s goodness in this area. As we continue to grow together, we recognize the importance of engaging in open, honest conversations that foster healing and unity. This journey has strengthened us as a church, and we embrace Black History Month with joy, respect, and a spirit of celebration.
Throughout this month, we take time to reflect on, honor and deepen our understanding of the countless African-American saints who have played vital roles in guiding God’s people and glorifying His name throughout history.
For the past several years, I have chosen to highlight African American preachers in our newsletter, but this year, I want to shine a spotlight on a scientist. My gratitude came to me as I opened up a brand new jar of peanut butter. That’s right…peanut butter. A simple luxury that most of us take for granted. But if it were not for the brilliance and determination of George Washington Carver…you and I would just be eating jelly sandwiches.
Born into slavery in 1864 in Diamond, Missouri, George Washington Carver overcame immense challenges, including poverty and limited access to education, to become one of the most prominent scientists of his time. As an African-American scientist, educator, and inventor, Carver’s groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed farming practices in the United States. Carver earned his degree in agricultural science at Iowa State Agricultural College (now Iowa State University), where he became the institution’s first Black faculty member. In 1896, he joined the Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) in Alabama, where he spent over 40 years teaching and conducting research.
Carver is best known for promoting sustainable farming methods, particularly crop rotation, which helped Southern farmers restore soil depleted by cotton cultivation. He developed hundreds of innovative uses for crops like peanuts, sweet potatoes, and soybeans, creating products such as peanut oil, rubber substitutes, and dyes. Although he did not officially invent peanut butter, he significantly expanded its uses and applications.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Carver believed he could have faith both in God and science and integrated them into his life. He testified on many occasions that his faith in Jesus was the only mechanism by which he could effectively pursue and perform the art of science. He became a Christian when he was still a young boy, as he wrote in connection to his conversion in 1931. He loved the Lord and viewed his scientific work as a way to serve humanity and glorify God. He rejected offers of wealth and patents, choosing instead to focus on improving the lives of impoverished farmers. His contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP in 1923 and recognition from U.S. presidents.
Carver’s legacy endures as a symbol of perseverance, ingenuity, and service to others. His work not only advanced agricultural science but also inspired generations to overcome adversity and use their talents to better the world.
So as we walk into this second month of 2025, we remember and honor our brothers and sisters of African descent who lived their lives to help all of us see, understand, and love our great Savior who sees, understands, and loves us first. May we continue to strive to be a church that is known for our unity in diversity. To God be the glory!
Grateful for you,
Life is busy. Here's an invitation to slow down for a few hours, enjoy great company with like-minded believers, and break bread together. Here's an invitation to be inspired and equipped to live the life Jesus has called us to. Say yes and join us—you'll be refreshed and ready for whatever else is on your calendar.
Man Church
Wednesday, March 5 | 6:30-9:00pm
Dr. Derwin Gray, Pastor of Transformation Church, will join us at Man Church. Former NFL Defensive Back Dr. Gray and his wife Vicki co-founded Transformation Church in 2010, a multiethnic, multigenerational, mission-shaped community located in Indian Land, South Carolina, just south of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Women’s Gathering
Thursday, March 27 | 6:30-9:00pm
Chrystal Evans Hurst will join the ladies as our guest speaker for the Women’s Gathering. The eldest daughter of Dr. Tony and Lois Evans, Chrystal Evans Hurst is an energetic, fun-loving “girl-next-door” who loves encouraging other women to fulfill their full potential in Christ.
Mark your calendars for Man Church on Wednesday, March 5, and Women’s Gathering on Thursday, March 27, from 6:30-9:00pm at the Barrett and Sewell Mill Campuses. Doors open at 6:15pm, dinner is at 6:30pm, and worship begins at 7:00pm. Registration for each event is $20 and includes dinner. Gather your friends and register by visiting northmetro.org/events.
Gray
Dr. Derwin
Hurst
Chrystal Evans
Connect & Grow
WELCOME HOME
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16 | 12:15PM
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23 | 12:15PM
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 start your own group, check out northmetro.org/groups.
GROUP LEADERSHIP
BRUNCH AND LEARN
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2 | 11:00AM
We all desire to have a great community in our lives, but let’s face it, finding your people and the perfect group can be hard. So we invite you to come help be part of the solution to these circumstances. Learn what it would look like for you to start and lead your own Connection and/ or Community Group for a semester by attending the upcoming Group Leadership Brunch and Learn. We believe God uses groups to change people’s lives and, as a leader, you get to be a part of that. At this Brunch and Learn, you will hear about the expectations of a Connection and Community Group Leader, as well as the training and ongoing coaching you will receive to ensure that you have everything you need to make your group leadership journey successful. Leading a group is not as scary as it may seem. It can be lifegiving for the leader and those being led. So, do not miss this opportunity to step into an exciting new season by signing up at northmetro.org/events.
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.
BAPTISMS
We offer classes for elementary-aged children, students, and adults once a quarter. After you have attended a class, one of our pastors will meet with you or your child.
If you’re ready to take this step in your faith journey, we invite you to sign up for a class at our Barrett Campus or meet with a pastor at the Sewell Mill Campus. For more information about our beliefs on baptism and to sign up for a class, visit northmetro.org/baptism.
Discipleship & Marriage
RE:GENERATION
Are you hurting, feeling stuck, giving 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? You’re not alone. We all have struggles to overcome. Whether big or small, these destructive thoughts and habits hold us back from the life we want—and the life God calls us to live. Through His Word, God offers us principles where freedom and new life can be found. re:generation is for everyone, no matter who you are or what you are struggling with.
New groups are forming now; so if you’re interested, please reach out to Becky Everette, NMC’s Discipleship Groups Pastor, at Beverette@northmetro.org. re:generation meets on Wednesdays at 7:00pm at the Barrett Campus. Visit northmetro.org/regeneration to learn more.
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 a year, beginning in August and January. To learn more, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
MERGE BARRETT CAMPUS | MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24 | 6:30PM 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 premarital discipleship class. Merge classes are available to those who regularly attend NMC and are already engaged. Our next Merge class will begin on Monday, February 24, 2025. To learn more, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
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.
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.
FOSTER & ADOPTION SUPPORT
BARRETT CAMPUS | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 | 6:30PM Scripture urges believers to look after the
FOUNDATION GATHERINGS
BARRETT CAMPUS | MONDAY, MARCH 3 | 7:00PM
The first few years of marriage can be exciting yet challenging, 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
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 group meets once a month for dinner and encouragement. Visit the Care page to be connected with the group leaders.
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.
INFERTILITY & LOSS SUPPORT
BARRETT CAMPUS | MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10 | 7:00PM
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
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. To learn more about Foundation Gatherings and upcoming Gathering dates, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
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.
WOMEN’S
CANCER SUPPORT LUNCHEON
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, MARCH 2 | 12:15PM
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 leader, Diana Pethel at 678.357.2933. You will find an amazing community of brave, strong women who have learned to trust God no matter what because He is trustworthy. To register for this free luncheon, please visit the Events page on our website.
BEAUTY FOR ASHES
BARRETT CAMPUS | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 AND 27 | 7:00PM
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.
For more information or to sign up for any of our Care Ministries, visit our Care page at northmetro.org/care.
TABLESETTER
Ed Wostbrock is a husband, father of five, and proud grandfather of 16. He is celebrating his recent retirement, which he sees as an opportunity to dedicate even more time to ministry. With 42 years of working as a chemical engineer, he is used to solving problems and improving systems, and he loves applying these skills to help others.
Whether spending time outdoors, enjoying sports, or working on projects with his wife, he’s always looking for ways to connect and give back.
Ed and his family began attending NMC in 2021, and since then, they’ve become deeply involved in the church community.
Ed leads our Home Repair Assistance Ministry, a team of faithful men who serve single moms and widows with basic home repairs. When asked what inspired him to start the Home Repair Assistance Ministry, Ed shared that it began with prayer. He wanted to contribute to NMC’s mission of “Being Missed” if the church were no longer here. “God put on my heart to help widows with their ‘HoneyDo’ needs. That grew into helping single moms as well,” he explains.
Spotlight » Ed Wostbrock
Spotlight
The Home Repair Assistance Ministry tackles a wide range of tasks, from fixing kitchen cabinets and repairing lawnmowers to installing handrails and replacing siding. Sometimes, Ed handles projects solo, but he’s grateful for a team of volunteers ready to lend a hand for larger projects.
This practical ministry has a profound impact on those it serves. Annie Berry, one of the women who have been blessed by the ministry, shares, “Ed, and this ministry has been a blessing to me since I moved here a few years ago. First of all, you can see that Ed loves Jesus and shows it in his mannerisms and work. He evaluates the job and then decides on the best tactic in accomplishing and completing the task; however, if his job has him out of town, he quickly gets someone else to assist you. Thanking Jesus for him, his team, and the ministry at NMC.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of the ministry has been involving children in the work. “Some of the most special moments are when the children are interested in helping. We get to talk with them and teach them some skills.”
Ed believes everyone has unique talents they can use to serve others. He encourages others to start small: “It doesn’t need to be some huge effort. Little things are often bigger than you might think to those receiving the help.”
Your skills and willingness to serve others can make a significant difference. God uses our unique gifts and we are able to love God, His Church, and others with them. Learn more about how you can serve others in many different roles by heading to northmetro.org/serve.
If you are a single mom or widow and in need of home repairs, Ed and his team would love to serve you. As a team these men are skilled in most areas of basic home repairs, including plumbing, electrical, and carpentry. While their skills are significant, they are unable to
take on major renovations or projects that require city or county permitting. If you need some assistance with knocking out your “honey do” list, let us know how we can help by submitting your request at northmetro.org/care.
NMCKids West End
A Special Needs Ministry at North Metro Church
At North Metro Church, West End is more than just a ministry; it’s a place where children with special needs are embraced, loved, and valued. West End serves as a safe and welcoming environment where children can experience the love of Jesus in ways tailored to their unique needs and interests.
What sets West End apart is its incredible team of Tablesetters. These devoted volunteers go the extra mile to form meaningful connections with each child by thoughtfully investing time to understand their unique personalities, passions, and preferences. Whether playing with dinosaurs, doing crafts, or sharing a quiet moment, Tablesetters build meaningful relationships that make every child feel valued and loved. Their commitment to serving reflects the heart of Jesus and makes West End a place of joy, learning, and growth.
At West End, we provide two environments to meet the needs of children in different developmental states. The first environment caters to younger children, providing a nurturing space where they can explore, play, and begin to learn about God’s love. The second environment is tailored for older children, offering activities and lessons that help them grow more understanding of Biblical truths. We are also committed to sharing the gospel in ways that resonate with each child through play, storytelling, and interactive activities. Tablesetters weave Biblical truths into every moment, ensuring that each child knows they are loved by God and created with a purpose.
West End is available during Sunday services at 9:15am and 11:00am. This schedule allows families to attend worship services while knowing their children are in a safe, loving, and enriching environment.
For parents of children with special needs, finding a place where their child feels welcomed and supported can be a challenge. West End seeks to ease that burden by creating a ministry that not only accommodates but celebrates each child’s individuality. Families are invited to be a part of a church community where everyone belongs and where every child can experience the joy of God’s love.
West End is more than a ministry— it’s a family, a safe haven, and a testament to North Metro Church’s mission of helping people find and follow Jesus.
Danielle Jackson NMC Kids Special Needs Coordinator
Upcoming Events for NMC Kids Special Needs Ministry
SPECIAL NEEDS PARENT BRUNCH
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9 | 11:00AM
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 at the Barrett Campus. Let us know you’re coming by signing up at northmetro.org/events.
SPECIAL NEEDS RESPITE NIGHT
FRIDAY, MARCH 28 | 5:30-8:30PM
We’re excited to host our Respite Night, designed for families of children with special neåeds and their siblings. This event is an opportunity for parents and caregivers to enjoy some rest while their kids experience a fun-filled evening in a safe and welcoming environment at the NMC Barrett campus. This event is for families from the community and NMC to participate—if you know someone who could benefit from this special night, share this invitation with them! Learn more about this night at northmetro.org/events.
These are some of our Tablesetter’s favorite nights to serve. If you are interested in serving, head to northmetro.org/serve to get started.
Upcoming
for you
MOBILIZATION
CITY SERVE WEEK
FEBRUARY 15-22, 2025
Invest in the renewal of our city and love others at City Serve. City Serve Week is a week-long, 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. Grab your family or a few friends, find an opportunity, and sign up at northmetro.org/events.
REDEEMER’S HOUSE SHORT-TERM MISSION TRIP
APRIL 5-12, 2025
We are organizing an adult Short-Term Mission Trip to Guatemala from April 5-12, 2025. On this trip, the team will assist with building projects and share the love of Christ with the communities we minister to and serve. You can learn more and sign up for this trip by heading to northmetro.org/serve.
WAYMARK COMPASS GROUPS
BARRETT CAMPUS | EVERY OTHER THURSDAY NIGHT
Compass Groups are a resource for foster and adoptive families (ages 6-18+) every other Thursday night. These groups provide respite for parents, a community for kids/teens, discipleship, and access to valuable tools and resources. If you are an adoptive or foster family, contact Tasha Whitener at tasha@waymarkfoster.org for additional information to learn about this resource for you.
CIRCLES USA
Did you know that here in Cobb County, over 17% of our children live below the poverty line? Have you wondered how you can make a lasting difference in helping a family move from poverty to financial stability? Circles has a proven model that combines mentorship, financial literacy training, and connections to existing community resources all while building intentional friendships through weekly meetings. The result? Families increase their income by 75% on average. 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.
NMCU
North Metro Church University (NMCU) is our primary vehicle for studying the Bible together to form a biblical worldview. In NMCU Core (101-104) 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. Our summer semester enrollment will open in April.
NMC KIDS
PINE COVE CITY SUMMER CAMP
BARRETT CAMPUS CAMP DATES |
MONDAY-FRIDAY, JUNE 2-6
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS CAMP DATES |
MONDAY-FRIDAY, MAY 26-30
Pine Cove City is Pine Cove’s summer day camp program returning to our NMC Campuses with college counselors from all over the country! Be a part of this wildly popular week-long camp on either the Barrett or Sewell Mill Campus. Pine Cove City is for students who are currently enrolled in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Registration for both campuses is currently open. Learn more and register for camp at northmetro.org/events.
NMC KIDS TABLE TALKER
JANUARY/FEBRUARY DISCIPLESHIP TOOL
This is a discipleship tool designed by the NMC Kids team to equip families to connect around the table intentionally. The activities and devotions you’ll find in the table talker come from the Gospel Project curriculum that 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 NMC Kids Table Talker is just the tool you need to take your family relationships to the next level. Grab yours today in NMC Kids.
and yourfamily
SUPER BOWL SUNDAY JERSEY DAY
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
Super Bowl Sunday is the perfect opportunity to blend comfort with team pride through game-day apparel. Whether you’re rocking a classic jersey, a cozy hoodie, or a casual T-shirt with your team’s logo, the key to this Sunday is to show your spirit for your favorite College or NFL football team while staying comfortable. No matter your style, the goal is to celebrate the big day in kids ministry with some fun. Game on!
BABY DEDICATION
BARRETT CAMPUS
CLASS | SUNDAY, MARCH 2 | 9:15-10:00AM
DEDICATION | SUNDAY, MAY 4 | 3:00PM
The Baby Dedication Class will prepare you to participate in our next Baby Dedication Service, which will be on Sunday, May 4 at 3:00pm on the Barrett Campus. This family-friendly service is an intentional environment, with the message and worship focused on the celebration of life and your child’s dedication to God’s teaching and instruction. If you want more information on dedicating your child or signing up, visit northmetro.org/events. If you are at our Sewell Mill Campus and want information on dedicating your child and parenting to the Lord, email our Kids Pastor, Nathan Woodward, at nwwoodward@northmetro.org.
PAJAMA SUNDAY
SUNDAY, MARCH 9
It’s time for one of our NMC Kids favorites—Pajama Sunday! Kids and parents always love an excuse to wear pajamas to church, so why not devote a whole morning to it? No matter where you’re joining us from, all you have to do is roll out of bed, brush your teeth, and maybe brush your hair. Don’t forget to tag @wearenorthmetro on Instagram to share your photos with us.
NMC STUDENTS
MIDDLE
SCHOOL MORNINGS
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAYS | 9:15AM & 11:00AM
6-8th grade students are invited to join us upstairs in the Student HQ for our 9:15am and 11:00am services for Bible study and community.
NMC STUDENT NIGHTS
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAYS | 6:00-8:30PM
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAYS | 6:00-7:15PM
6-12th grade students, find your community, worship God alongside other students, and grow your faith in Jesus at our NMC Student Nights. These nights include worship through music altogether, and then 6-8th grade and 9-12th grade students transition to different environments for relevant teaching and small groups. Connect with us on Instagram @nmcstudents to stay in the loop.
NMC STUDENTS WOLF NIGHT
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 | 6:00-7:30PM
WOLF Night is back! On Wednesday, February 26, NMC Students is taking the fun to Adventure Air for an exciting evening. Come jump, bounce, and laugh with us from 6:00 until 7:30pm. Don’t miss this chance to hang out, bring friends, and make unforgettable memories. Pizza will be provided. We know it’s a Student Ministry staple. Get ready for a Wednesday full of Lots of Fun!
SPRING RETREAT 2025
MARCH 21-23
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at Camp Grace from Friday, March 21, to Sunday, March 23! This is your student’s chance to experience an amazing retreat filled with fun, friendship, exciting camp activities, and plenty of laughter. Together, we’ll explore what it means to live Just Like Jesus. The cost per student is $185
(scholarships available). The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Sunday, February 23. The deadline to sign your student up for the Retreat weekend is Sunday, March 2. Don’t miss out! Visit northmetro.org/events to register or apply for a scholarship.
COLLEGE & YOUNG ADULTS (18-23)
COLLEGE NIGHTS
BARRETT CAMPUS | TUESDAYS | 6:45-9:00PM
College students and young adults (1823) join us on campus in the Theater for worship, dinner, community, time in God’s word, and small groups. This time is for anyone and everyone, regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey; there is a place for you here. For more details, visit northmetro.org/college.
“But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.” 1 Corinthians 8:3
family family
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.
When Santa Came to Guatemala
For several years now, we have had the joy of celebrating a special Christmas program with the children who participate in our programs. This is something they eagerly anticipate all year long, and each month they ask us, “Are we having a Christmas program this year?” This year, for the second time, we were blessed by the visit of a mission team from NMC, making this celebration even more special.
The first two days were dedicated to packing bags of groceries and gifts. Thanks to all the helping hands, the process was much faster and easier, and the Christmas spirit filled the entire neighborhood. Unlike Christmas traditions in the United States, in Guatemala, it’s not customary to wait for Santa Claus to leave gifts under the tree. However, children are always thrilled to see him in movies, malls, or advertisements. This year, we gave them the biggest surprise: during the two days of our Christmas program, held in the four locations where we serve, our friend Mark dressed up as Santa Claus. Along with his two helpers, he gave the children from the villages an unforgettable experience. For many, it was the first
Dear reader:
time seeing Santa Claus up close—and even better, they got to take a picture with him!
Throughout the program, we distributed 320 gifts to children of all ages across the communities, raffled off bicycles and scooters, and served their favorite food: pizza and donuts. We were also able to bless the families by giving out 155 bags of groceries to help them save on food and enjoy a better Christmas dinner. But most importantly, we shared with the children the greatest gift of all: Jesus.
Thank you, North Metro Church, for the unwavering support you provide to Casa del Redentor, allowing us to bring hope to Guatemalan children throughout the year and create such a special Christmas experience. A heartfelt thanks to every member of the final adult mission team of 2024 for sharing so much love with us and helping us celebrate one of the best Christmas programs we’ve ever had.
I hope you can join one of the mission trips planned for 2025 and experience these moments for yourself. We are waiting for you with open arms!
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.
We currently support seven church plants, including Take Hold in Scotland; Grace Auburn in Auburn, Alabama; Creekside in Dallas, Georgia; Deeper Church in Dallas, Georgia, Heirloom Church in Kyle, Texas; Oaks Community Church in Naples, Florida; and Compassion International in Guatemala.
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.
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.
Church plants are an expression of our multiplication strategy, multiplying the mission to help people find and follow Jesus.
