Winter 2020 Ministry Guide

THE CHURCH OF THE APOSTLES

WINTER 2019

MINISTRY GUIDE

SPRING 2020

Belong to Jesus.

Belong Together.

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WELCOME Dear Friend, elcome to The Church of The Apostles! We are honored that you have visited us today, and it is our prayer that you have been blessed by uniting with us in worship. As you may have already sensed, this church is unique in its devotion to true, biblical worship. Back in 1985 when the Lord began to burden my heart for the birthing of a new congregation in this area, three things from the Word of God were clearly revealed to me in regard to worship:

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Unhurried praise and adoration of our Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, Lord, and the Head of this church.

This includes a regular time for breaking of bread at the Lord’s Table.

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2 Prayer and intercession as an expression of our utter dependence on our heavenly Father through Jesus Christ in all things.

3 Bold proclamation that is relevant and instructive. Because we believe that the Bible is God’s self-revelation and therefore contains all the answers to all of man’s problems and needs, we preach it with all of its authority.

OUR FOUNDING RECTOR ichael A. Youssef was born in Egypt in 1948. Dr. Youssef surrendered his life to the lordship of Jesus Christ at the age of 16. He was one of eight children with a family heritage rooted in the ancient New Testament church founded by the Apostle Mark.

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n the pages that follow, you can learn more about specific ministries of our church, but most importantly, remember this: you are loved, and you belong at Apostles.

Again, on behalf of the leadership and members of this church, welcome to Apostles.

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Dr. Youssef immigrated to Australia as a young man where he studied at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was ordained as a minister, and married his wife, Elizabeth. He then earned a master’s degree in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary in California and a doctorate in social anthropology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. He became an American citizen in 1984.

Dr. Youssef teaches with a fresh perspective as a result of his background and innate comprehension of biblical culture. He has a rich understanding of the Bible, its original languages, and biblical lands. Because of this, his messages are sprinkled with descriptive explanations of many of Scripture’s subtleties and nuances.

Table of Contents 04

You Belong Here

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Who We Are

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Our Mission

08 Worship

Midweek Gathering

Wednesday Night Dinner

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Children’s Ministry

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Student to Student (STS)

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College Fellowship

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20s & 30s Ministry

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Small Groups

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Women’s Ministry

23

Singles Life

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Men’s Ministry

26

Adult Bible Classes

30

Evangelism Classes

31

Life Imprint Dinner

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Congregational Care

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You Belong Here As a church, we desire to lead people to Jesus and a community where they matter and belong. We would love to walk through this journey with you! There are several ways you can belong to Jesus and belong together through our Sunday morning services, weekly Bible classes, events, and more. We hope to be a blessing to you, and in turn, you have an opportunity to be a blessing to others.

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MATTHEW 22:37-39; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:3-4 Inside a community of likeminded believers, you are encouraged to worship, pray, and learn.

Seven Benefits of Belonging For more information about how you can get connected, please visit apostles.org.

Grow closer to God.

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Build lasting friendships.

PHILIPPIANS 2:1-2; HEBREWS 10:24-25

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Our church is a family united by our shared love for Jesus. This commonality creates a bond that serves as a foundation for relationship building.

Be known and loved.

GENESIS 1:27 No matter your story, you will be respected and embraced as someone made in the image of God.

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Be equipped.

EPHESIANS 4:11-16 We teach the truth of the Bible as the primary source for spiritual growth and daily living. This truth gives us the confidence to understand and live out godly values.

Receive support when you need it.

GALATIANS 6:2 All of us experience difficult times. Having a pastor, small group, and church family there to encourage and pray for you is invaluable.

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Discover your spiritual gifts.

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Be a blessing to others.

PHILIPPIANS 2:3-8 We all want to make a difference. Belonging to a community opens our eyes to the needs around us and allows us to work together to make an impact for Christ.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-7 Each of us was created uniquely by God with talents and abilities that can help others. We’ll help you discover, develop, and deploy your spiritual gifts.

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WHO WE ARE Our deeply held beliefs and highest priorities are the fundamental forces that drive our actions. he Church of The Apostles has never been just another church. God has guided and sustained this church through a vision that was made clear to the Rector even before the church began. We conclude from this that God has something unique in mind for this church body, and we operate our ministry accordingly.

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So as you attend Apostles, what can you expect to experience in the life and ministry of this church?

There are at least five realities which drive the ministry of Apostles: 1 Lifting up Jesus at all times in everything we do.

We are here to lift up Jesus at all times in everything we do.

The Bible says that Jesus came to the earth that He might have preeminence in all things and that includes The Church of The Apostles.

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2 Searching for opportunities & ways to make the Gospel clear to every person.

We are constantly searching for opportunities and ways to make God’s awesome message of salvation clear to as many people as possible. We want to ensure that people have the chance to hear the message and see the heart of Jesus in a true light that is compelling and clear.

3 Striving to present every person complete in Christ.

We also strive to present every person complete in Christ.

The highest purpose of life on earth is to make joyful progress in our spiritual formation, which is becoming like Jesus.

Therefore, all of our ministry activity here at The Church of The Apostles converges on this focal point.

4 Conducting all ministry with excellence to the glory of God. Apostles is a church that is busy with Holy Spirit-directed ministry activity that is executed with excellence. We firmly believe that if we cannot do ministry with excellence to the glory of God, we simply don’t do it.

5 Speaking the truth in love without compromise.

Finally, we speak the truth in love without compromise. Through the Bible, God reveals Himself as the fountain of truth and love. We declare His truth in love without compromise or apology.

OUR MISSION Reaching the lost and equipping the saints for the work of ministry. ur mission is accomplished by unconditionally surrendering to and seeking the leadership of God the Father, through Jesus, His only begotten Son, and by the power of the Holy Spirit. We know that the greatest impact we as a church can make is to reach out to others. God has called us as a church to act as a lighthouse for those truly seeking the truth of the Gospel, not only in the city of Atlanta, but also throughout the nation and to the farthest corners of the world. Our members reach out to others locally and around the world through continued involvement and support of missions and ministries.

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REACHING THE L ST AND EQUIPPING THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF MINISTRY.

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WORSHIP

Bible Classes

Worship Service

9:00 - 10:15 a.m.

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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uring this hour, we have Bible Classes (Sunday School), and we also have an early worship service in the Chapel.

The Bible classes are for our children, youth, and adults to meet for grounding, learning, connecting, and training in the wisdom and ways of the Lord. These classes center around Jesus, the living Word of God, and the Scripture, the written Word of God.

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uring this hour, we have our worship service in the main Sanctuary. This is a time for celebration and communion, praise and prayer, evangelism and proclamation. Our heart’s desire is to lift up the resurrected Jesus in all of His saving power and glory.

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The sacrament of Baptism is practiced on the second Sunday of the month, and the sacrament of Communion is practiced on the first, third, and fifth Sundays of the month.

Wednesday Night Dinner 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Midweek Gathering 6:15 p.m. efore the Midweek Gatherings, we offer a family dinner at 5:00 p.m. No reservations are needed. Beginning at 6:15 p.m., we offer programs for everyone in your family. We have Midweek Gatherings for children, students, and adults. The Midweek Gathering for adults includes a time of worship and an extended time of prayer.

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Children’s Ministry n our fast-paced culture, many families are forgoing the opportunity for serious Bible teaching of young children. The idea that the Sabbath Day is set apart from all other days of the week is what we strive to honor. How we long for our next generation to one day have memories of solid Bible teaching during happy Sunday mornings in their beloved church!

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The Sunday 9:00 a.m. hour is the place to be for families! One of the great blessings in our Children’s Ministry is the excellent opportunity for Bible study for all ages. The best of the best is offered at 9:00 a.m.! It is our belief that we have a tremendous opportunity to reinforce solid truth when children are present for all of Sunday morning: from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Our mission in Children’s Ministry is to intentionally reach out to children with the whole counsel of God – that they might know Him and love Him. Although children do not have the vocabulary to express it, they have hungry souls that yearn after God, so it is our desire that every experience a child has in our church includes God-centered programs and activities. We want to nurture faith in each child and believe that spiritual foundations can be laid in even the youngest child in our nursery.

Sunday Mornings @ 9:00 – 10:15 a.m.

Class + Location

Description

Infant – Kindergarten

Infants through young toddlers receive loving care from experienced caregivers and enjoy supervised play time. Twos through fives participate in engaging, God-centered lessons that teach important truths about who God is and how we can know Him.

3rd Floor Visitor Check-in at Kiosk

1st – 4th Grade For more detailed information about our ministry and classes, please visit our website at apostles.org/children.

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5th Floor Visitor Check-in at Kiosk

Children gather at 9:00 a.m. for Sunday morning Bible study followed by an assembly where they visit the land of “Apostlelot,” a drama depicting a hero of the faith.

Sunday Mornings @ 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Class + Location

Description

Infant – Kindergarten

Infants through young toddlers receive loving care from experienced caregivers and enjoy supervised play time. Twos through fives continue learning about our great God, studying theology at an age-appropriate level. Several Sundays each month, twos through fives visit the Wee Worship Chapel or Preschool Chapel for a Biblical drama, worship, and prayer.

BELONG TOGETHER TESTIMONY

3rd Floor Visitor Check-in at Kiosk

1st – 3rd Grade 4th Floor Visitor Check-in at Kiosk

Kid’s Connection is our children’s church for first through third graders, where children have the opportunity for a time of largegroup teaching and small group activities.

Our ministry is driven by the hope and vision that our children will have one pure and holy passion to know and follow hard after God. Wednesday Nights @ 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.

Class + Location

Description

Infant – Age 3

Infants through threes receive loving care from experienced caregivers and enjoy supervised play time.

3rd Floor Check-in at Classrooms

Age 4 – Kindergarten 3rd Floor Check-in at Classrooms

1st – 4th Grade Drop-off at Room 423 and pick-up in the STS Gym

Stay up to date

Fours and fives sing, pray, and practice memorizing and studying God’s Word, while also learning how God is at work around the world!

Running Church is a high-energy time of teaching and activity! Large group teaching focuses on discipling children by instilling a love for God’s Word and His ways. Children end the evening with games in the STS Gym.

Website: apostles.org/children Phone: 404-842-0200 Facebook: The Church of The Apostles Children’s Ministry Instagram: @apostleschildrens

PAT REYNOLDS Growing up, Pat went to church but did not know the real character of God or the Gospel. She imagined God as “Santa Claus” until tragedy struck and challenged everything she believed.

Find out how God pursued her through this time and gave her a life’s calling that has impacted generations of students for Christ!

Hear her story at apostles.org/pat.

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Student to Student

BELONG TOGETHER TESTIMONY

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TS or Student to Student is the ministry for 5th - 12th grade students at Apostles. We are passionate about middle and high school students loving God with their whole hearts, reaching others with their whole lives, and making disciples with the whole gospel.

Through each of our Bible studies, small groups, worship services, teaching times, and service events, our desire is to minister to the hearts of students and see them transformed by Christ. We long to see them equipped to live as followers of Christ, as lights in the darkness, and to reach their own generation with the life-giving truth of the gospel.

Gathering + Time

Description

Sunday Mornings

Our vision for STS Sunday mornings is to be a place where students develop and mature in their faith. We desire to see students know Jesus and make Him known and to be equipped to live for Him at home, on campus, and in everyday life. On Sunday mornings, this is typically accomplished through small group discussions.

9:00 - 10:15 a.m.

Midweek Gathering Wednesday 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.

Through our Midweek Bible studies, our hope is that students will be equipped to love God more. Every week, during Midweek Gathering, large group and small group Bible studies are offered for every grade level.

Special Events & Trips

For information on upcoming gatherings (movie nights, grill outs, etc.) and trips (retreats, conferences, mission and service opportunities, etc.), check out stsatlanta.org/ events.

Stay up to date

Website: stsatlanta.org Phone: 404-591-2470 Facebook: STS Atlanta Instagram: @STSAtlanta Text Updates: Text “STS” to 24587

WILL CRUMLY Will grew up going to The Church of The Apostles. While in STS, he grew even more in his walk with Jesus and as a leader. After going to college, he wanted to pour back into the lives of students by becoming an STS intern.

Hear his story at apostles.org/will.

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College Fellowship We desire to be a place for college students to find encouragement, joy, rest, and strength in Jesus.

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postles’ College Fellowship is a ministry for college and college-aged students. We believe that the deepest possible joy and satisfaction in life can be found exclusively in knowing, loving, and trusting Jesus Christ.

We desire to be a place for college students to find encouragement, joy, rest, and strength in Jesus. Therefore, we want to find creative ways to embrace the full counsel of Scripture, as well as to be a community that provides an opportunity for discipleship.

BELONG TOGETHER Testimony

We meet for lunch most Sundays following the 10:30 service, excluding holidays.

CULLEN COPLAND Cullen believed in Jesus from a young age, but as he got older, he placed soccer and relationships at the center of his life instead of God. For more information and scheduling changes, please contact Mark Johnston at mjohnston@apostles.org or Leah Colvin at lcolvin@apostles.org.

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See how the Lord worked in Cullen’s life as he rediscovered his first love, Jesus Christ, at apostles.org/cullen.

2Os & 3Os Ministry We seek to integrate the gospel into the daily lives of young adults in order that they might be transformed and become influencers in culture.

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he 20s and 30s Ministry at Apostles exists to encourage young adults to intentionally connect with each other each week and to explore the things in life that really matter. Within the ministry, there are lots of opportunities to gather with peers, develop meaningful relationships, and grow spiritually.

Gathering + Time

Description

Thursday Night

Primary weekly gatherings are on Thursday nights at The Church of The Apostles. It is a relaxed time of fellowship, worship, and a message from God’s Word. The message is followed by table discussion of the biblical text and key takeaways from the message.

There are also a variety of social activities that take place regularly, as well as yearly retreats.

7:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact 20s30s@apostles.org.

BELONG TOGETHER Testimony

AJ CURRY When AJ became a Christian, he quickly realized the importance of Christcentered community. Through prayer and interaction with other believers, he found just that at the 20s and 30s ministry at The Church of The Apostles.

Learn more about AJ’s story at apostles.org/aj.

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Small Groups

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ur Small Groups are a great environment to develop authentic relationships while discussing how God’s truth intersects life. They help us in our journey of becoming more like Christ … together.

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Small Groups meet in homes every week or every other week and feature lively, interactive discussions on God’s Word and how we live it out. In a Small Group, you’ll share life’s challenges and joys. You’ll pray for one another and receive encouragement. Your Small Group will help you live out your faith while impacting others … together.

Come find a place where you can connect with God and others in deeper ways.

For more information, visit apostles.org/ smallgroups or contact T.J. Diamond at tjdiamond@apostles.org.

Groups Mixed Groups Men’s Women’s Young Families

BELONG TOGETHER

Locations Atlanta Brookhaven Buckhead Canton Cartersville College Park Cumming Douglas County East Cobb Grant Park Henry County Kennesaw

Lithonia Mableton Marietta Northlake Roswell Sandy Springs Serenbe Smyrna Tucker Vinings West Cobb Woodstock

“...one of the great values of the small group is that it makes the church feel more intimate, and you really do feel like family.”

Hear from others about their small group experience at apostles.org/smallgroupvideo.

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Women’s Ministry BELONG TOGETHER Testimony

KAREN MONCRIEF Karen experienced intense grief, and to her surprise, she found support to strengthen her.

Watch Karen’s story to see how God healed her as she served others, which gave her an opportunity to honor her parents’ legacy, at apostles.org/karen.

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Equipping Through Community All women are invited to join us for several unique offerings as we connect with one another, delve into the Word of God, and encourage each other.

Please refer to the website for exact dates of studies due to holidays and school breaks.

Sunday Community Classes Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

Paul’s Early Letters

Sundays

Linda McEntire Tonja Brice Laurie Graffo Sherrie Rodriguez

The Apostle Paul was one of God’s greatest servants and was used to boldly proclaim the good news of the coming Kingdom of God to the world in the first century, and through Paul’s epistles, to people of all ages. Our Sunday Women’s Community will study two of Paul’s early letters: Philippians and Ephesians.

These epistles are relevant for us today, as they have much to say about the nature of salvation, the nature of man, and the nature of God and His way of working in the world, and not just about a situation in a local church. As Paul encourages us in Ephesians 4:25, “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.”

All women are invited to join us for a time of study, fellowship, and service.

Begins Jan. 5 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.

Room 607-610

Weekday Community Classes Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

Psalms: There’s A Psalm For That!

Tuesdays

Lori Harris

The book of Psalms is the heart of the Old Testament. What’s on your heart today? Whatever you are feeling, whatever is happening in your life … There’s A Psalm For That. We all have those days – when little problems become crises, when doubt begins to overwhelm belief, when exhaustion hits, and when happiness escapes. The book of Psalms offers words of strength and comfort for those troublesome times. Jesus knew all 150 psalms intimately, and He relied on them to face every situation, including His death. During this study, we will use a selection of psalms to prepare us to greet each morning with grace. We will study each psalm in its Old Testament setting, summarizing its message and reflecting on its significance from a New Testament perspective.

Jan. 14 – April 21 6:45 – 7:45 a.m.

Room 242 Cost: $15

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Weekday Community Classes Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

A Study of Isaiah

Tuesdays

Vicki Gillespie

Isaiah prophesied one of the clearest expressions of the gospel in the Old Testament. As it was a warning for the Jews of 700 BC, it is a clarion call for this generation today. The first chapter opens with the people of God having turned away from Him by failing to follow His laws; yet God mercifully holds out hope to this hardhearted and unrepentant people, offering the cleansing of sins and the blessings that flow from faith and obedience in Him. Isaiah’s message is salvation lies only with God. The only question – then and now – is will we accept His offer?

Anne Hayes

Covenant is like the missing piece of the puzzle that completes the picture of our “so-great-a-salvation.”

This incredible thread runs from Genesis through Revelation as we see God enter into a binding agreement with His people and how He always keeps His promises. Trusting Him as a covenant partner frees us from the bondage of worry and anxiety. This study will transform the way you read the Scriptures and give you confidence and security in your walk with the God of the Covenant.

Charlotte Travis Meg Estes

“How does this affect the Kingdom of God? Is it born of God? Where is my focus?” These are some questions we’ll begin to filter our lives through as we grow in our understanding of what it means to have an eternal mindset. When we come to Christ, we set our agendas aside and become spiritually alive to seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else. That’s where we find true joy. No longer do we view things from a temporary mindset but with an eternal one that has God and His Kingdom as our ultimate interest and desire. That’s truly living! In this eight-week, verse-by-verse study of Colossians, we will feed on the letter Paul wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to help us hop on board with the plans God has for our lives with all eyes on Him.

Jan. 14 – April 21 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Room 237 Cost: $15

Covenant: Precept Upon Precept

Tuesdays Jan. 14 – March 31 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

Room 229 Cost: $15

A Study of Colossians

Thursdays Jan. 16 – March 12 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Room 201 Cost: $10

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Weekday Community Classes Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

A Study of Ephesians: Joy of Living Bible Studies

Thursdays

Denise Nyberg

In Ephesians, Paul emphasizes that we have been saved – tenderly, individually – but even more, saved to bring praise and glory to God. Each lesson in this 11-week study includes questions and comments drawing participants into a vibrant, practical understanding of God’s expansive purpose and grace. Together under the canopy of God’s living Word, minds are stretched, hearts are filled, and lives are enriched. To know Him is to love Him. Please join us as we lean into that adventure of increased knowing! As a side note, if you would like to connect more, this group frequently goes to lunch; you’d be warmly welcomed.

Connie Musselman

What is your calling as a parent? In the midst of folding laundry, coordinating carpool schedules, and breaking up fights, many parents get lost. While feeling pressure to do everything “right” and raise “good” children, it’s easy to lose sight of our ultimate purpose as parents in the quest for practical tips and guaranteed formulas.

Jan. 23 – April 2 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Room 231 Cost: $15

Mom2Mom

Thursdays Jan. 30 – April 2 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

The Commons Cost: $15 for materials

In Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family, Paul Tripp offers parents much more than a to-do list. Instead, he presents us with a big-picture view of God’s plan for us as parents.

Outlining 14 foundational principles centered on the gospel, he shows that we need more than the latest parenting strategy or list of techniques. Instead, we need the rescuing grace of God – grace that has the power to shape how we view everything we do as parents. Freed from the burden of trying to manufacture life-change in our children’s hearts, we can embrace a grand perspective of parenting, overflowing with vision, purpose, and joy.

Childcare: $10 per child $30 maximum

Mom to Mom begins with a time of large group teaching and ends with small group table time led by moms who are a bit ahead on the journey. You will be encouraged in God’s Word and forge lifelong friendships!

Pop-Up Classes

Saturdays Watch for Specials 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Room 237

Jeanine Dungan

Jeanine Dungan will address topics of relevance to the christian life on a periodic “pop-up” basis. Her first pop-up will be “Weathering the Storms of Life.”

Watch for other topics including forgiveness, trust, and more.

Cost: TBD

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Weekday Community Classes Class

Info

Leader(s)

Description

Pop-Up Class: Hebrew Alphabet

Sundays

Dr. Carrie Burns

After church, bring a snack, and you will learn three to four letters with two to three vowel sounds. Little by little, your Hebrew vocabulary will grow, and you will learn how to say and spell the names of God and Jesus, as well as your own. Hebrew word studies will yield deeper treasures. Plus, working on the Hebrew alphabet can provide a wonderful way to open doors of conversation with Jewish friends. There is a commitment to daily practice and homework.

Materials: workbook, graph paper, and Bible.

TBA Watch for Specials Cost: TBD

GROW

SERVE

SHARE

Community Groups are forming around the Atlanta area, designed to build authentic community.

Look for groups in West Cobb, Woodstock, Smyrna, and Vinings.

Women’s Ministry provides numerous opportunities to serve our church, our community, and those beyond the walls of our city.

Visit apostleswomen.com for more information on upcoming events and gatherings.

Genuine Wisdom provides perspective, encouragement, and life-on-life interactions for women in their 20s and 30s. Stephanie Harvey leads this quarterly gathering.

Single Hearts for Christ is a community for single, divorced, and widowed women who are 40+ who come together to enjoy, enrich, and support one another. What better place to be than with a group where people know you, pray for you, and encourage you in your faith.

Widow’s Network encourages widows through monthly luncheons.

Coming Summer of 2020 Hebrews Bible Study and Kingdom Builders

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See apostleswomen.com for details.

Facebook: @apostleswomensministry Instagram & Twitter: @apostleswomen Contact Apostles Women: Phone: 404-842-0200 Email: bcooper@apostles.org

Singles Life t is the desire of The Church of The Apostles Singles Ministry to provide an authentic place within the larger church for single adults to build supportive friendships and grow in the gospel of grace. We strive to see those within our Singles community connect, grow, and serve together in the body of Christ.

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Half the population of Atlanta is single, and The Church of the Apostles has been called to reach this community with the gospel. Often the church can feel like a place only for those who are married or building their families, but the church is diverse with so many in different stages of life.

Whether you’re divorced, widowed, never been married, a single parent, or busy with your career, we have a place for you to grow spiritually within an authentic, grace-centered community.

We hope that every Single person at Apostles will have their need for community met through our Singles ministry.

Class

Info

Description

S.A.L.T. Single Adults Living In Truth 40+

Mike Glass

Whether you’re new to Apostles or just looking to connect with our Singles community, this gathering is for you. Join with other mid-singles ages 40+ to build friendships and grow in grace. We begin the morning with round table interaction along with some practical biblical teaching to help everyone understand how to live out the gospel in our work, family, and friendships.

THRIVE A Mid-Singles Community 35+

Brad Ost

Single Hearts for Christ Single, divorced, and widowed women 40+

Jan Blakeslee

Sundays 9:00 a.m.

Room 617

Sundays 9:00 a.m.

Room 613

For up-to-date information, please contact Jan Blakeslee at jblakeslee@apostles.org.

Thrive is a mid-singles class working through the Bible. Right now, we’re in the Gospel of John and sharing our lives in community.

We’d love to have you come along with us as we seek to grow toward the Lord and each other in a warm and welcoming setting. Come and thrive in our community.

Single Hearts for Christ is a women’s fellowship that brings single Christian women together to enjoy, enrich, and support one another. What better place to be than with a group where people know you, pray for you, and encourage you in your faith. As we see it, every single, divorced, and widowed woman has different needs, worries, hopes, and dreams. But each one certainly offers a plethora of experiences, perspectives, challenges, and gifts. In Christ, we have all that we need for life and ministry. If you are 40 years old or beyond and looking to connect with other Christian women, we have an open invitation for you. Our goal is to provide a secure place for you to grow in Christ and to establish friendships with other single women at The Church of The Apostles. Join us!

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Men’s Ministry God did not intend for you to discover the answer to all the important life questions by yourself. You were created to live in community with other men who are wrestling with the same issues.

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Class

Info

Description

The Hub

Tuesday Mornings

As men, we all want to make a difference at home, at work, and in all areas of our life. The Hub is designed for men of all ages to be equipped, encouraged, and empowered for real change.

Join us for a complimentary light breakfast, challenging teaching from the book of Philippians, and interactive discussion around the tables. You’ll leave different than when you came.

6:45 a.m. Breakfast 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Study The Commons

Men’s Small Groups

Weekday Mornings

In today’s world, it’s tough to be who God has called us to be.

How do we balance the demands at work with responsibilities at home? How do we love our wives like Christ loves the Church?

God did not intend for you to discover these answers by yourself, but to journey with other men who wrestle with the same issues.

Our men’s small groups dive into Scripture, apply it to real life, and sharpen our focus on Christ.

The Path: Men’s Mentoring

For more information, contact Mike Slaughter at mslaughter@apostles.org or 404-591-1971.

The Path facilitates mentoring relationships between men who desire to have accountability for their lives. Our primary source of guidance comes from the Bible being applied to our lives by the Holy Spirit. As a reference for our mentors, we use The Heart of Mentoring by Dave Stoddard and To the Heart and Back by Anson Ramsey.

BELONG TOGETHER Testimony

ALEX PAQUETTE “I grew up in a Catholic background but didn’t attend church much. God wasn’t a big part of what was discussed around the dinner table. ... I started asking some questions of ‘Who is Jesus, and what role should He have in my life?’ [Life] can’t purely be, at that age, to get good grades and play sports. There must be a designer, a creator in all of this, and that’s what really struck home for me.”

God pulled Alex out of the world and into a position of leadership.

Learn more at apostles.org/alex.

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ADULT BIBLE CLASSES Beginning on January 5 9:00 a.m.

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GROWING: Entry Level Classes Class

Leader + Room

Description

First Look Class

Please see the Sunday bulletin or website for details on upcoming classes, or contact Holly Copeland at 404-564-6688 or hcopeland@apostles.org.

What does it mean to belong? Dr. Youssef would like to share with you what it means to belong to our church family through membership.

By becoming a member, you will have a pastor who will walk with you through the joys and trials of life. Discover God’s plan and purpose for your life through finding a place of ministry where you can use your spiritual gifts and be used by God to be a witness for Him and bring glory to His name.

CONNECTING: Community or Life Stage Classes Class

Leader + Room

Description

Breakthrough Living: The Book of Romans, Chapters 8-16

James Pool

Breakthrough Living is an extraordinary group of maturing Christians. We are continuing to study the New Testament in the order it was likely written, continuing with the book of Romans, Chapters 8-16. James Pool leads a guided participatory discussion where we all edify one another.

Family Foundations

John Whitney

Room 237 ABCD

Room 612

Family Ministries

Kevin Cuthbertson Room 620-623

S.A.L.T. Single Adults Living in Truth 40+

Mike Glass Room 617

Family Foundations is mainly comprised of married couples with children from preschool to high school. The group strives to build a faith-based foundation for the development and strengthening of our individual families and church family bonds through the study of God’s Word in a sharing and participatory environment.

The Family Ministries class is designed for families of every age, from newlyweds without kids to grandparents. Our hope for this time is that we will mature as husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, and that God would use those who have walked before us to now walk beside us. Breakfast will be provided at 8:45 a.m., and the class will begin at 9:15 a.m. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Kevin Cuthbertson at kcuthbertson@ apostles.org.

Whether you’re new to Apostles or just looking to connect with our Singles community, this gathering is for you. Join with other mid-singles ages 40+ to build friendships and grow in grace. As a single adult, it can be hard to both find and build meaningful community within the church. Each week we seek to build up our community of singles as we look at key passages in the Bible to help us practically live out our faith together. Additionally, we have round table interaction along with practical biblical teaching to help everyone understand how to live out the gospel in our work, family, and friendships.

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CONNECTING: Community or Life Stage Classes Class

Leader + Room

Description

Thrive: A Mid-Singles Community

Brad Ost

Thrive is a mid-singles class working through the Bible. Right now, we’re in the Gospel of John and sharing our lives in community.

We’d love to have you come along with us as we seek to grow toward the Lord and each other in a warm and welcoming setting. Come and thrive in our community.

Room 613

* 35 and above

Women’s Group: Paul’s Early Letters

Linda McEntire Tonja Brice Laurie Graffo Room 607-610

The Apostle Paul was one of God’s greatest servants and was used to boldly proclaim the good news of the coming Kingdom of God to the world in the first century, and through Paul’s epistles, to people of all ages. Our Sunday Women’s Community will study two of Paul’s early letters: Philippians and Ephesians. These epistles are relevant for us today, as they have much to say about the nature of salvation, the nature of man, and the nature of God and His way of working in the world, and not just about a situation in a local church. As Paul encourages us in Ephesians 4:25, “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.” All women are invited to join us for a time of study, fellowship, and service.

LEARNING: Study Classes with a Learning Emphasis Class

Leader + Room

Description

The Book of 2 Thessalonians

Monte Johnson

As we study Acts and Paul’s various missionary journeys, we will pause Acts, and study the letters he wrote while on each journey to the various churches he started. We are currently in Acts chapter 16, Paul’s second missionary journey. When we finish Acts 18, the end of his second missionary journey, we will pause our study of Acts, and do a detailed study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians, and then 1 and 2 Corinthians. When finished with those studies, we’ll head back to Acts chapter 19.

The Book of Hebrews

Roger Hill

Room 611

Room 242

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Though Hebrews was written by God, the one who held the pen is unknown to us today. Yet the message is crystal clear. Why would we settle for anything short of the best, which is Jesus and Jesus alone? Furthermore, we should not only want the elemental principles of Christ, but we should strive for perfection in our knowledge of and relationship with Jesus. This study will greatly assist in our continued spiritual growth.

LEARNING: Study Classes with a Learning Emphasis Class

Leader + Room

Description

The Gospel of John

Jimmy Goolsby

In John 20:31, the Apostle John said, “but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” The Gospel of John is about the biggest need in our lives ... to see the Glory of God revealed through Jesus Christ. Join us for this in-depth study that will lead us to be in awe of Jesus Christ and worship Him — He is all we need!

Room 229 ABC

The Books of Esther and Ruth: Redeemed by Christ

Baker Smith

A Historical, Cultural, and Geographical Survey of the Old Testament

Lee Holston

Room 234

Room 243

These books demonstrate the power of God as He brings about the blessing of many nations. Ruth was part of the human seed line of Christ. Through Esther, God saved Christ’s seed line from annihilation. Both books reveal the character of God as Redeemer. In addition, the books point to Christ as Savior. Please join us for this fascinating study of God’s sovereign hand at work to accomplish His plan for salvation.

Feel like you need some background on the superpowers and cultures at work in the Old Testament? Or want to know where the cities mentioned in Judges are located, for example? We’ll use maps, archaeology, and a sprinkling of original sources to fill out your understanding and appreciation of God’s powerful Word as revealed in some of the historical books and the major prophets in Scripture.

TRAINING CLASSES: Developing Life Skills Class

Leader + Room

Description

Exodus and Beyond

Tom Taylor

From slavery and bondage to sin into the Promised Land of walking daily with Christ, we will study how God has been dwelling with His people since the beginning. God has always called them into abundant life. In Exodus and Beyond, we will see how God reveals Himself to His people.

Room 244

Revival in America Today

Bobby Mitchell, Sr. Room 239

This is a study about the decline of the American church today and what we, as Christians, can do about it. It is a story of our faith walk and how we can unite with others to make a difference.

It builds on previous studies of knowing and doing God’s will, revivals and awakenings, Paul’s missionary journeys, and Paul’s Epistles. It compares 21st century America with these teachings while addressing such issues as: Does God call us today? Can we really walk with Him in the turmoil of America today? How can we make a difference? As always, Scripture and application are the foundation for this course.

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EVANGELISM

CHRISTIANITY EXAMINED EXPRESS Saturdays February 8 • February 29 • March 21 • April 25 apostles.org/express

Christianity Examined is a one-day course designed to clarify what it means to have a personal relationship with God and how to go about it. It is an introductory course to the Christian faith and is a prerequisite to an authentic experience of that faith. We cannot recommend it too strongly for those who are not clear on what it means to have a personal relationship with God, uncertain how to go about it, or if they are unconvinced that such a relationship even exists.

It has also been a good tune-up for those whose relationship with the Lord has gone stale. It shares truth presentations about Jesus Christ, along with small group interaction, in a caring, non-judgmental atmosphere.

BELONG TOGETHER Testimony

PETER & LINDA DAHL “I’m 74 years old. Usually, when you get to be my age, you are pretty set in your ways, but I wasn’t quite. I was open, and the Lord came in.”

No matter your age or stage of life, God loves you and desires to have a relationship with you. Watch how God never stopped pursuing Peter.

Learn how God used Christianity Examined in the lives of Peter and Linda Dahl at apostles.org/dahl.

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OUTREACH MINISTRY

LIFE IMPRINT DINNER Friday, January 31 6:30 p.m.

The Commons

Life Imprint Dinners are an extension of the Outreach Ministry of The Church of The Apostles.

The purpose is to attract the unchurched and the dechurched, and to feature a speaker who has a life story that 1) is so extraordinary that it leaves a deep, unforgettable impression on the souls of those who hear it, and 2) frames the gospel of Jesus Christ in a powerful, compelling way.

Online registration is now available for you and your guests who are truly seekers* at www.apostles.org/ lifeimprint2020, or contact Jan Blakeslee at jblakeslee@ apostles.org or 404-591-1988.

Michael Franzese Michael Franzese grew up as the son of the notorious Underboss of New York’s violent and feared Colombo crime family. At his most affluent, Michael was generating an estimated five to eight million dollars per week from legal and illegal businesses. In 1986, Vanity Fair named him one of the biggest money earners the mob had seen since Al Capone. At the age of 35, Fortune Magazine listed him as number 18 on its list of the “Fifty Most Wealthy and Powerful Mafia Bosses,” just five spots behind John Gotti.

All that changed when Michael met a beautiful dancer from California named Camille Garcia, whose beauty and faith turned his world upside down, causing Michael to do the unthinkable – walk away from the mob. Nobody of his rank ever walked away – and lived – until now. This former “Prince of the Mafia” is now a man on a mission determined to use the compelling experiences of his former life for the benefit of others seeking redemption in Jesus Christ.

*Our definition of a seeker is someone who is unclear about what it means to have a personal relationship with God, uncertain how to go about it, or unconvinced that such a relationship even exists.

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Congregational Care

We seek to fulfill this ministry by showing compassion to those in need and providing classes to help those dealing with difficult life situations such as divorce, grief, financial issues, or brokenness.

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Opportunities for Growth

The Congregational Care ministry offers areas of support for the person searching for hope and healing. Together, we invest in the sowing and harvesting of good seeds through biblical teaching and works of compassion. We hope that you will find your place to humbly co-labor with us in service to Jesus Christ, His church, and the community in which we live.

Class

Learn More

Description

Compassion Ministry

Rand Eberhard Director of Congregational Care 404-591-2475 reberhard@apostles.org

The pastoral staff is available to provide support, encouragement, and direction. Our Stephen Ministry provides trained “Care Givers” who are available after each worship service for prayer and encouragement.

“Grace Touch” ministry is available for those in need of a meal when unexpected circumstances arise. Also, our Prayer Ministry is available to intercede and seek the Lord on behalf of the needs you are facing.

Stephen Ministry

stephenministry@apostles.org

Stephen Ministry is a unique, one-on-one, Christ-centered relational ministry where a Stephen Minister is trained to listen to your heart, offer encouragement, and pray with you. This relationship is designed to journey with you for a season as you begin to experience Hope and Healing in Christ. These leaders have completed training to best support people who are facing struggles, hurts, or overwhelming circumstances. Stephen Ministers meet regularly with an individual over a period of time to provide confidential, personalized care.

Christian Guidance

Individual Guidance Appointments

If your heart is heavy or life has become unmanageable, speaking with one of our pastoral counselors will certainly contribute to the betterment of your faith journey. We offer Christian guidance, premarital and marital direction, as well as skillful advice. Personal appointments are available upon request by contacting our office.

Men, Women, and Couples Brian Maxwell 404-591-1966 bmaxwell@apostles.org Jeanine Dungan 404-564-3149 awitt@apostles.org

Legacy Builders

Congregational Care 404-564-3149

What do we want to “hand down” to our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren? Legacy Builders is a ministry focused on equipping those who are interested in preparing, presenting, and preserving a godly legacy for their family. This legacy-building process will be developed and enhanced through classes, ministry resources, and opportunities for service. It is designed for those over 50 years of age with the purpose to prepare, present, and preserve one’s legacy for future generations.

If you are 50 years of age and older, this ministry will provide you with excellent resources to assist you as you leave a legacy for your family.

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Share Prayer Requests, Hospital and Illness Updates, or Birth and Death Announcements

Please use the form online to submit a prayer request; share information about hospitalization, home care, or an illness; or announce a birth or a death. To submit a request, visit apostles.org/care.

Winter-Spring Classes | Register online at www.apostles.org/care.

Class

Info

Description

Boundaries

Sunday Afternoons

Women Only

12:30 – 2:00 p.m.

Boundaries define who we are and who we are not. Boundaries impact all areas of our lives, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Boundaries help us discover God’s will for our lives.

Come discover what your personal boundaries are. Ashley D. Wille, AACC, leads this group. The class cost includes the Boundaries book.

January 5 – February 23 Room 248 Cost: $15

“Open Hearts” Support Group

Thursday Mornings

Women Only

January 9 – February 27

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Room 244

DivorceCare

Tuesday Evenings 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

January 7 – April 7 Room 231 Cost: $15

GriefShare

Tuesday Evenings 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

January 7 – April 7 Room 201 Cost: $15

CrossCurrent: Beyond Brokenness

Tuesday Evenings 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.

January 21 – March 10 STS Den Cost: $10

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If you have attended “Boundaries,” “Ending the War with Myself,” “Cross Current,” or “Living Waters,” then “Open Hearts” is for you. If you want to continue your healing journey in a group setting, join us in this safe and confidential group for encouragement and growth. Together, we will grow in authenticity with God, ourselves, and others. Ashley D. Wille, AACC, leads this group.

Most people say that separation and divorce are the most painful and stressful experiences they’ve ever faced. It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues you’ve never faced before. DivorceCare is a 13-week course designed to assist, comfort, and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time. The class features a video, teaching, and small group discussion.

Grieving the loss of a loved one, whether recently or in the past, is one of the most emotionally wrenching experiences you can go through. If you try to deal with the varying waves of emotion alone, the grief experience becomes even more distressing.

GriefShare is a 13-week video and small group discussion course designed to assist, comfort, and support individuals as they go through this most difficult time.

A safe and confidential community to experience grace and find the truth. No matter how broken or hopeless we may perceive ourselves, God upholds us with hope. In this Christ-centered community, God is restoring broken hearts, broken pasts, broken relationships, broken sexuality, and broken identity. Each week includes worship, teaching, a time of testimony, and same-gender small groups. Come and experience healing and freedom through the unfailing love of God! The registration fee includes the course book.

Class

Info

Description

Living Waters

Tuesday Evenings

Restoring Relational Integrity

6:30 – 9:00 p.m.

This is an in-depth ministry for any Christian seeking healing in any area of relational or sexual brokenness. At each meeting, we gather for worship and teaching as well as a time of testimony. We then divide into small groups focused on confession and prayer.

Living Waters helps Christians resume the call to becoming whole gifts to each other through the body of Christ. Check out the video testimonies at www.apostles.org/livingwaters. The cost of the series is $500. Applications will be accepted beginning in August of 2020. If you can’t join Living Waters, our mini–Living Waters class is CrossCurrent: Beyond Brokenness, which starts January 21. The class description and registration information are available online or in this guide.

October 5 – March 2021 STS Loft Apply by September 4, 2020

Hope and Healing

Please visit apostles.org/care for additional info and class offerings.

If you are faced with life’s challenges and don’t know where to turn, we want to invite you to come forward and let us help you. We tend to struggle and suffer alone, but the Lord desires that we be in relationship with Him, ourselves, and others. We would like to help you identify your unmet needs spiritually, emotionally, relationally, etc. and then offer support and teaching specific to Hope and Healing with the end goal of connecting you deeper into the life of the church as a “worker” of the gospel of peace. Our mission is to Reach, Equip, and Work. We welcome you to join us in the process as we all attempt to live into the fullness of God’s plan for our lives.

Volunteer Ministry GraceTouch Meals

Share the grace and love of our Lord by providing a meal and a personal contact to those in our midst in need of refreshment, care, and encouragement. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to: • Cook meals to be taken to families who have a need.

• Deliver meals to families.

Prayer Ministry

Involves the expansion of God’s Kingdom through intercession for others. Intercessors may come to the church during the week and pray for the requests that have been received, or they may receive requests via email at home. Please submit any prayer requests online using our form or contact us at 404-591-2480 or prayer@apostles.org.

Ushers

If you are a member of the church, we invite you to serve! Volunteers needed once a month during the 9:00 or 10:30 a.m. services. This includes passing out the bulletins, helping people get seated, and taking up the offering. For more information, please contact Congregational Care at 404-564-3149.

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HOW TO CONTACT US The Church of The Apostles 3585 Northside Parkway Atlanta, GA 30327 P: 404.842.0200 F: 404.266.0656 E: apostles@apostles.org W: apostles.org

WORSHIP SUNDAY The Gathering of the Body: 9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY Midweek Dinner: 5:00 p.m.

Midweek Prayer & Gatherings: 6:15 p.m.

DISCIPLESHIP Sunday: 9:00 a.m.

LEADING THE WAY with Dr. Michael Youssef PO Box 20100 | Atlanta, GA 30325 P: 404.841.0100 Order: 1.800.337.5323 W: LTW.org

Belong to Jesus. Belong Together.

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