2012 Welcome Guide v6

welcome Dear FrienD, Welcome 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:

1. 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.

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.

In the pages that follow you can learn more about specific ministries of our church, but most importantly, remember this one thing: you are loved and appreciated at Apostles. Again, on behalf of the leadership and members of this church, welcome to Apostles.

May 10, 1987 First service at Waverly Hotel Dr. Youssef leads the very first service of The Church of The Apostles in the Hallmark Room at the Waverly Hotel on May 10, 1987.

Around 52 adults and children gathered together that Mother s Day to worship and celebrate communion. The service’s first song—Our God Reigns— seemed to perfectly capture the mission and message of this new-born community.

June 7, 1987 Moved to The Lovett Chapel Less than one month after its first service, the new congregation had outgrown its meeting space at the Waverly Hotel. Plans had already been laid to begin utilizing the facilities of a local private school in September. Now these plans needed to be moved forward. The community gathered at The Lovett School’s chapel, which could accommodate 600 people, on the first Sunday of June 1987.

October 18, 1992 Dedication Service At Former Allstate Building

april 4, 1993 First Worship Service At Northside Parkway

December 14, 1997 Parking Deck Dedication

Purchased in 1993, the Allstate building on Northside Parkway became the home of our congregation. With some renovation, this tawdry building and its 100,000 square-feet of space became the home of the congregation and the headquarters of its international broadcast ministry, Leading The Way.

Our temporary home in the renovated Allstate building wasn’t the most polished of sactuaries. Every twenty feet was a column that had to be avoided, the ceiling was only nine feet high, and there were a host of other challenges. However, none of those things mattered whatsoever. The church flourished during this time as God poured out His presence on His people.

This parking garage—along with the Department of Transportation’s miraculous approval of a traffic light at Northside Parkway—helped ease safety and logistical concerns about how to accommodate the swelling number of people coming to the campus each week.

through

our founding rector ichael A. Youssef was born in Egypt in 1948. Dr. Youssef surrendered his life to the lordship of Jesus Christ as a young man of 16. He was one of eight children with a family heritage rooted in the ancient New Testament church founded by the apostle Mark.

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 exdr. michael youssef

april 1998 Sam Ayoub Memorial Chapel Almost unrecognizable with its renovated interior and exterior, the former Allstate cafeteria served well for several years as the church’s chapel. Eventually, however, it would be replaced to develop additional educational space for the ever-growing church community.

planations of many of Scripture’s subtleties and nuances.

november 29, 1998 STS Worship Center Dedication

December 24, 2000 First Service In New Sanctuary

The building of the Student Worship Center began what would become the new facade and helped transform the Allstate building into what we see today.

On December 24, 2000 we not only celebrated the birth of Christ, but also our first service in the new sanctuary. The timing of this event was an overwhelming blessing to our congregation as we once again celebrated the faithfulness of God.

the years

May 6, 2001 Leading The Way Begins Television Ministry

2005 New Educational Building Dedication

Now celebrating 24 years of ministry, Leading The Way's television and radio programs are broadcast in more than 20 languages, covering more than 190 countries. Leading The Way also produces DVDs, CDs, books, a monthly devotional magazine, and daily e-devotionals to spread the light of Christ. This Atlantabased organization partners internationally with in-country follow-up teams to encourage new believers in their faith, helping God's Kingdom to grow around the world.

The last phase of construction was the completion of a six-story building that would not only house the new Commons and Sam and Louisa Ayoub Chapel but would also provide additional classroom space for our children’s ministry that was bursting at the seams.

who we are

Our deeply held beliefs and highest priorities which are the fundamental forces that drive our actions

he Church of The Apostles has never been just an-

this that God has something unique in mind for this

other church. God has guided and sustained this

church body and we operate our ministry accordingly.

church through a vision that was made clear to the

So as you attend Apostles, what can you expect to ex-

Rector even before the church began. We conclude from

perience in the life and ministry of this church?

There are at least five realities which drive the ministry of apostles: 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

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that He might have preeminence in all things and that includes The Church of The Apostles. This ministry is not about us.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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We are a congregation declaring the whole counsel of God. Nothing we do is as important as following Jesus' words in Matthew 24:14: ‘This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations.’”

Conducting all ministry with excellence to the glory of God.

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Apostles is a church that is busy with Holy Spirit directed ministry activity that is executed with excellence.

We firmly believe that excellence is Heaven’s first law and if we cannot do ministry with excellence to the glory of God, we simply don’t do it.

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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.

student ministry our mission

Our reason for being

“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 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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The Church of The Apostles has never been just another church.

We are called to be a church with a passion for souls, to go forward with a single-minded will to reach the lost.”

apostles life ur unique expression of the Great Commission at The Church of The Apostles is called ApostlesLife. The Lord revealed this approach to us over a period of years in which we were struggling to develop an outreach strategy that fit our church authentically and that effectively introduced people to a personal relationship with God. The word apostle means “one who is sent.” We believe that each of our members is called to be an apostle where God has placed them in their everyday walks of life – neighborhood, school, work, and community.

Gradually, after much trial and error, we developed a specific, step by step process that involves our members introducing others to a loving God through a relational approach. It is a natural , non-intimidating and conversational way for everyday Christians to share the love of God with neighbors, friends, and relatives. Here at Apostles, we call this ApostlesLife.

Visit apostles.org for information on events and classes.

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Our goal is to develop mature Christians and to actively reach out to those who do not know Christ.”

christianity explored he centerpiece of our ApostlesLife strategy is a four-week investigative course called Christianity Explored that is held three times a year. This course involves a complimentary dinner, life changing testimonies to the grace of God, truth presentations that reveal the loving heart of Jesus Christ, and small group interactions.

Our hope and desire for all of our members is to bring at least one guest a year to one of the three sessions of Christianity Explored. The focal point of our outreach efforts is in January of each year, when we

Truth Presentations about Jesus Christ that include dinner and small group interaction.

have Guest Month. We encourage each of our members to bring at least one guest to at least one of the Sunday evangelistic services and then to Christianity Explored that follows in February.

For more information on how you can get trained and become involved, contact James Saxon at 404-591-1981 or jsaxon@apostles.org .

worship SunDay MOrninGS Sunday morning worship at Apostles, as our founding rector has already explained in his welcome note, is an empowering time of praise, prayer, and proclamation of God’s Word.

apOSTLeS @ Five Each week Jonathan Youssef brings a unique message at this service. Come join us for a time of worship, fellowship, and the Word each Sunday at 5:00 p.m.

HOur OF pOwer Hour of Power is held each Wednesday evening in the Ayoub Memorial Chapel. We dedicate this hour to prayer and praise. As biblical Christians, we realize that prayer is an essential part of the spiritual life of the church and of individuals. During the Hour of Power we refuel and refire our busy lives. It has been said that this is the most important hour in the life of our church each week.

weDneSDay niGHT Dinner There is no better time to get to know the families of our church than Wednesday nights. Dinner is held each week before the Hour of Power. It is always a time of great food and warm fellowship.

Visit apostles.org for more information.

student ministry ministries

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ince the church began in 1987, we have witnessed God working in creative and redemptive ways in the lives of individuals and families. We have seen His transforming hand at work in businesses that begin to

follow biblical precepts. We have watched His healing power restore shattered lives into lives useful to His kingdom. Most of all we have experienced God’s love and compassion and His bountiful provision for every need in our lives. This church is a testimony to the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:33.

The ministries described in these pages are designed to touch lives at their points of real need. We invite you to examine them and to become a part of the movement of God’s Holy Spirit at Apostles.

Visit apostles.org for information on events and classes.

“We are a congregation that believes in the power of prayer and worship. There are many opportunities to praise the name of Jesus each week at Apostles.

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children’s ministry ur vision is to reach children for Christ and to equip them to surpass us in the knowledge of God, in faith, in righteousness, in fruitfulness, and in evangelization. Early and consistent teaching in a child’s formative years has an enduring effect (Proverbs 22:6). We consider it a privilege to walk alongside you as parents as you train your children through faith-nurturing programs and ministries here at Apostles.

In Scripture, the Church is portrayed as a living spiritual house with Christ as the foundation and cornerstone, and each believer as a stone. We want the children to understand that they are living stones, choice and precious in the sight of God. To children, our church is a picture of the Kingdom of God. We trust that each time they come to this place, they will be reminded that they are part of a bigger kingdom and in the presence of the King of Kings.

We have special programs for children on Sunday mornings, on Wednesday evenings with “Running Church,” and on Tuesdays and Thursdays during women's ministry activities. Special events throughout the year are wonderful opportunities for families to work, serve, play, and worship together.

Visit apostles.org/children for information on events and classes.

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We consider it a privilege to walk alongside you as parents as you train your children through faith-nurturing programs and ministries here at Apostles.”

student ministry student ministry

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TS is a well-balanced ministry that focuses on Outreach, Discipleship, and Service. Our philosophy of ministry is centered on reaching unchurched students, bridging them into small groups for discipleship,

and then sending them out to reach other students.

OuTreaCH | MATTHEW 28:19-20 As Christians, we are called to communicate the good news of Jesus Christ by our actions and words. STS strives to equip students for evangelism and provide opportunities for them to spread the good news. As we follow in obedience, God transforms hearts and lives as He adopts new believers into His family.

DiSCipLeSHip | LUKE 9:23 Discipleship is a vital part of the Christian life. One of the focuses of STS is

Each ministry within STS is de-

to teach and train students to grow in the Lord and become passionate fol-

signed for a specific age group.

lowers of Jesus Christ. Building biblical community through discipleship en-

CrossWalk is designed for fifth

ables students to grow closer to each other as they grow closer to the Lord.

and sixth grade students. Middle School STS is for seventh and

ServiCe | GALATIANS 5:13 We want to equip our students to be mission- and service-minded. STS embraces “Apostles Life” concepts and encourages students to see themselves as missionaries who serve their schools, neighborhoods, families, the Atlanta area, and around the world.

eighth graders. High School STS is for students in ninth through twelfth grades.

Each of these ministries has a variety of weekly activities, from small groups to large group wor-

Visit apostles.org/sts for information on events and classes.

ship services, and from in-depth equipping classes to service projects. Visit www.stsatlanta.org for each ministry’s weekly schedule.

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“Our passion is to equip students to live the gospel in their homes, schools, and neighborhoods and to share the love of Christ wherever they go.

young adults he young professionals Sunday School class meets Sunday mornings.

This class is designed to build community amongst singles in their 20’s and 30’s, focusing on topics that are applicable to what it means to follow Jesus in personal, relational, and business life.

The Center for Faith and Culture (CFC) meets Sunday evenings. 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. We’ll become aware of current cultural realities, learn about historic Christianity and philosophies, and discover how the Gospel redefines issues.

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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.”

Visit apostles.org/youngadults for information on events and classes.

college / transition ife transitions are difficult. For students, transitioning from high school to college or from college into the work place can be overwhelming. Personal faith ownership, deep questions, new freedoms and responsibilities in the midst of a shifting culture pose great challenges to students. When facing these challenges, a student can feel alone.

The college and transition ministry attempts to begin building a trust relationship with juniors and seniors in high school in order to equip and support them

“The 10-mile radius around Apostles contains the fastestgrowing singles population in the United States, as well as over 100,000 college students.

in their faith while at college. Through times of teaching and listening, we desire to help students defend their faith against skepticism while also reaching out to skeptics to answer their honest questions about the Christian faith. We seek to assist students with finding and connecting to a campus ministry that preaches Christ and following up with them in person and via social media.

As students move toward graduation we seek to be available to counsel them toward a meaningful career path and relationally connect them to the Young Adults ministry. Whether they are at the beginning, middle, or end of their college career, our hope is that by pouring into them, they will live missionally, as lights for the Gospel on their campus.

Visit apostles.org/college for information on events and classes.

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student ministry young families

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ur desire is to see young families connect to Christ, the church, and to each other in meaningful ways. The young families ministry provides several opportunities for these connections to happen. On Sunday

morning we have a breakfast for the whole family at 8:45, followed by a time of teaching and small groups. We also have small groups that meet in homes around Atlanta during the week. Finally, there are outreach opportunities and social events that are planned throughout the year in order for young families to connect socially and to get involved in reaching the community.

Visit apostles.org/youngfamilies for information on events and classes.

HiTCHeD

HaTCHeD

Married Couples without Children

Married Couples with Children

Hitched is a fellowship group designed specifically for

Hatched provides a mentoring opportunity for

married couples with no kids. It is a bridge ministry that

young parents on a monthly basis for one simple rea-

exists in both Young Adult Ministry and the Young Families

son. Parenting is hard. We want to equip you each

Ministry. If you are looking to connect with some other

month with some time with other parents to share

newly married couples and to hear about how to keep your

stories, compare notes, and gain insight. We also in-

marriage alive and vibrant, this is the place for you.

vite guest speakers to each gathering.

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Our desire is to see young families connect to Christ, the church, and to each other in meaningful ways.�

women’s ministry he women’s ministry at The Church of The Apostles desires to be a place where women of all ages and stages can come together to be equipped to use their God-given gifts to minister to the church and the world.

Our vision is to see women who are committed to a deepening relationship with Jesus Christ through diligent prayer and the study of Scriptures, and who are confident in the use of their gifts so that they reach out in loving relationships, to make an impact in their world.

There are opportunities to learn and grow through several Bible studies offered weekdays or evenings. The Heart-to-Heart ministry is a group mentoring ministry designed to help women establish covenant relationships with godly women who will encourage and equip them to live for God’s glory.

Several events are scheduled throughout the year for fellowship and outreach, such as the Titus 2 lunches, retreats/conferences, and the Christmas tea. Additionally, the women’s ministry supports women through the Widows’ Network, a Single Mom’s ministry, and several community service projects throughout the year.

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Equipping women to reach hearts for Christ!”

God wants you to know His purpose for your life, and He desires for you, as a woman, to serve and

reach others for Christ. Whether you are a longtime member, regular attendee, or visitor, we pray that God directs you to the area where He calls you to serve at the church.

Visit apostles.org/women for information on events and classes.

student ministry discipleship ministries aDuLT BiBLe CLaSSeS Our Sunday morning adult Bible classes are structured to help people not only gain knowledge but also to acquire understanding and grow in wisdom.

All classes are led by gifted facilitators in small-to-medium sized settings.

All classes start at 9:00 a.m. A brochure listing current classes is available at all welcome centers.

MOnDay niGHT inSTiTuTe Each Monday night during the fall and spring we offer studies designed to give you practical help with living the Christian life. All sessions start at 7:00 p.m. and brochures with current listings are available at all welcome centers.

Visit apostles.org for information on events and classes.

“The goal of our discipleship ministries is to bring people together under the Word of God so that they can grow in their Christian faith and carry the Gospel to others.

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Men’S FraTerniTy Men’s Fraternity is a program designed to equip men to live and to lead as God intended, training men to press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. We invite all men of Apostles and our larger community to answer this call by joining us as we focus on these truths. We meet for a light breakfast , followed by a DVD presentation and small group discussion.

Visit apostles.org/men for information or contact Men’s Fraternity at mensfraternity@apostles.org.

small groups ome find a place where you can connect with others in meaningful ways. Our Small Groups are a great environment to develop authentic, caring relationships while discussing how God’s truth intersects life.

They help us in our journey of becoming more like Christ . . . together.

Small Groups usually meet in homes every week or every-other week, featuring lively, interactive discussions on God’s Word and how we live it out.

Some groups also meet at the church.

You will share life with all of its joys and challenges. You will pray for one another and receive encouragement. Together, your Small Group will help you live out your faith while impacting others.

Visit apostles.org/smallgroups for information on events and classes.

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

music he music ministry at The Church of The Apostles is committed to giving all praise, honor, and glory to Christ. The sole purpose of music in worship is to add one more element to extol the greatness of our God. It is the divine call of every redeemed child of God to join our voice with the hosts of Heaven to say, “Worthy is the lamb that was slain . . . ”. When we join our voices together, we become a choir to accomplish that end. Our blend of older and newer music is purposeful because each of us, young and old, desire to worship our great God.

Visit apostles.org for information.

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Any man or woman on this earth who is bored and turned off by worship is not ready for heaven.” - A.W. Tozer

student ministry care congregational

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ongregational Care extends the loving arms of our Lord around the hearts of His people by ministering to their bodies and souls with healing, helping and hope. If Christ is the Good Shepherd, then through the

work of Congregational Care His sheep are cared for and nourished and His goodness made known.

From counseling and classes to meals and prayer, Congregational Care affords believers of all kinds the chance for richer, deeper relationships with God and their neighbors, so that they may be fully formed into the image of Christ and thoroughly equipped for every good work that God has called them to do.

People join a church for a variety of reasons, but they stay principally for one: because they feel they matter. Congregational Care supports the ministry of The Church of The Apostles by helping its members to matter, while weaving between them the ties that bind.

Visit apostles.org/congregationalcare for information on events and classes.

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“Congregational care is vital to the life of Apostles, as we reach out to a world in need of Christ.

membership BeLOnGinG od is at work among us and He is calling people to join Him in this work.

If you are interested in becoming a member of Apostles to worship and serve along with us, we offer the opportunity to get to know each other starting with the First Look class. This four-week class gives the history, vision, and mission of our church. We also spend some time looking at how God has made and gifted us “for the work of ministry” so we can find the place God has for each member in this church family.

After the completion of the First Look class, a luncheon is held one Sunday after the worship service to meet the staff and vestry. There will be a pastoral interview appointment made with each person or couple in the weeks following the luncheon. Once the interview is complete, new members are presented and received into the church with a reception following the 10:30 service.

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Getting involved at The Church of The Apostles means making yourself at home in our growing church family.”

GeTTinG COnneCTeD ur heart is for each member to be active in the body of Christ at Apostles, growing in godliness as we worship and study His Word; serving as we use our spiritual gifts and our abilities to minister to each other; and in fellowship as we share in each others’ lives through personal relationships, caring, and praying for each other.

As believers we are each uniquely created, gifted, and equipped to serve God through the church body. Romans 12:4-5 says, “For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”

We want to connect members in the relationships and ministries that will activate their God-given passions and giftedness to glorify God and advance His Kingdom.

Visit apostles.org for information on events and classes.

student ministry leading the way

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eading the Way with Dr. Michael Youssef is a comprehensive international media ministry that utilizes popular technologies like television, radio, mp3 players, iPhones, satellite television (THE KINGDOM SAT), so-

cial media networking sites and the Internet to share the Truth of Christ with more than 4 billion people every year. In addition to media outreach, Leading The Way works one-on-one with viewers and listeners to help them grow in Christ and find local churches – even in hostile areas.

For more than 22 years, Leading The Way's television and radio programs broadcast in more than 20 of the world’s most spoken languages, covering more than 200 countries. Leading The Way also produces DVDs, CDs, books, a monthly devotional magazine, a weblog and more to spread the light of Christ. This Atlanta-based organization partners internationally with in-country follow-up teams to encourage new believers in their faith, helping God's Kingdom to grow around the world.

Dr. Youssef records dual language radio messages for Leading The Way’s Middle East listeners with the help of Rev. Baki Sadaka, who translates the sermons into Arabic.

Leading The Way, part of the missionary efforts of The Church of The Apostles, passionately proclaims the uncompromising Truth of the Gospel to more than 4 billion people worldwide.

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Dr. Youssef and the Leading The Way staff are committed to sharing the Gospel with the lost and equipping believers to grow into a deeper walk with Christ. To learn more about this vital mission, visit www.leadingtheway.org.

Visit leadingtheway.org for information.

frequently asked questions eople who join The Church of The Apostles have var-

aDuLT BapTiSM

ied backgrounds and bring a diversity of views to our

Any believer who has not been baptized is encouraged to

congregation. To avoid confusion, Dr. Youssef has set

do so. This service is not a covenant-making service as much

forth his answers to some commonly asked questions.

as it is a public testimony of one’s salvation through the living Lord Jesus Christ and the surrender of one’s life to His lordship.

Q: What do we believe regarding the Bible?

A: We believe in the inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture.

Q: What do we believe about communion?

The Bible is the written Word of God, without error and of

A: Like baptism, communion is viewed differently by dif-

infallible and divine authority in all matters of faith and

ferent Christian traditions. For example:

life (2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20-21).

1. The bread and the wine are the real body and blood of Q: What is the purpose and our practice of baptism?

our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the belief of Catholics, as well

A: Catholics and Orthodox adherents, as well as Anglo-

as Orthodox adherents and some Anglo-Catholics. Yet, the

Catholics, believe that a baby is born again (although they

Old Testament prohibits eating flesh and drinking blood.

do not use this term) at the time of baptism. On the other

Furthermore, the Lord Jesus Christ was speaking symboli-

hand, many evangelical churches only baptize adults and

cally as He passed the real bread and the real wine.

merely have a service of dedication for infants.

2. The elements do not become real flesh and blood until

inFanT BapTiSM

Anglo-Catholics and some Protestants.

after one consumes them. This is the position of some

The Protestant Reformers rejected the idea of regeneration at baptism. But the evangelical Anglican Church sees

3. Jesus is present in a mystical way in the elements during that time.

infant baptism to be more than a mere dedication of the baby. We believe the service of baptism of a child at Apostles serves three purposes:

The Anglican Church fought all of the above teachings during the Reformation. And in the Articles of Religion, which is the foundational document of Anglicanism, Article

1. It is a service of thanksgiving to God for the baby. God is the

XXVIII refers to transubstantiation as being “repugnant to

One who has given us His children to manage. Thus, parents

the plain words of Scripture.”

must be thankful to God and willing to express that publicly.

In Luke 22:19 we find the key words related to the Lord’s

2. It is a service of claiming the promises of God in Acts

institution of the Eucharist: “in remembrance”. . . past, pres-

16:31—the scriptural promise of salvation saying, “For you

ent, and future. Past, reminding us of Christ’s redemptive

and your children . . . .” Thus, confidently, we come to God

work on the Cross; present, exhorting us to live godly and

in prayer, asking that He open the spiritual eyes of the ba-

holy lives; and future, compelling us to look forward to the

bies at some point in their lives.

marriage supper of the Lamb (Titus 2:11-13).

3. It is a service of pledging to God that the child will be

Following the practice of the original Apostles—who

brought up in the fear and nurture of the Lord. Just as a

gathered on the first day of the week to celebrate the Lord’s

child will not have a choice in his name or the school he

Supper in remembrance of His death on the Cross for our

attends, he will not have a choice about being brought up

sins—we, too, break bread and drink wine in remembrance

in a godly home.

of His death for us. The service of Communion is, on the one hand, a joyous celebration of Christ’s victory and our salva-

In summary, the infant baptism service is a covenantmaking service.

tion. On the other hand, it is a solemn moment which reminds us that it was our sins that put Him on the Cross.

student ministry Q: What is an evangelical Anglican church?

At Apostles, we believe in the biblical teaching of male

A: “Evangelical” means that we believe in the reliability of

headship—more accurately, male servant headship. This

the Scriptures, the necessity of a conversion experience

manifests itself in the way women serve as hosts in wel-

through faith in Jesus Christ, and the urgency to get the

coming visitors and members to the church while the task

Gospel message of salvation out to everyone. The “Angli-

of waiting on tables is given to servant leaders (the men).

can” part is that we stand in the Anglican tradition, specif-

Waiting on tables includes the collecting of offerings and

ically, in the pattern of church governement as well as

serving the Lord’s Supper.

various practices of worship.

We believe in women’s ministry. Women serve in various functions at The Church of The Apostles, such as lead-

Q: What about the role of women in ministry at Apostles?

ing worship and reading the Word of God. Additionally,

A: As a biblically-based church, we believe that, as it relates

there are women in leadership positions on the staff under

to salvation, the Bible teaches that “God is no respecter of

the leadership of the rector.

persons.” This means we unequivocally believe in equality of the sexes in the sight of God and man.

Scripture is clear regarding women teaching men in the church and we follow that biblical admonition (Genesis

The Bible does teach that men and women are to have dif-

3:16-17, 1 Corinthians 11:2-3,1 Timothy 2:12).

ferent roles in the church, just as a husband and wife have

Qualification is not the issue. Equality of opportunity is

different roles in the home. The church should mirror the

not the issue. Rather, it is our desire to be in obedience to

ideal Christian home. Therefore, we recognize the husband’s

biblical directive. Our convictions are based upon the Word

role as spiritual leader, both in the home and the church.

of God, not secular argument.

statement of faith We recognize God as our authority

bodily resurrection, in His ascension to

in every area of life. We also acknowl-

the right hand of the Father, and in His

edge that we will answer to Him for

personal return in power and glory.

every action we take. He has given us the privilege to reach many people, and

We Believe that for the salvation of

as recipients of God’s grace, we will be

lost and sinful man, regeneration by

judged on our obedience to Him.

the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential.

We Believe the Bible to be inspired,

We Believe in the present ministry

the only infallible Word of God.

of the Holy Spirit, by whose in-

We Believe that there is one God,

live a godly life.

dwelling the Christian is enabled to

eternally existent in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

We Believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost, they that

We Believe in the deity of Christ, in

are saved unto the resurrection of life

His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His

and they that are lost unto the resurrec-

miracles, in His vicarious and atoning

tion of damnation. We believe in the

death through His shed blood, in His

spiritual unity of believers in Christ.

HOw TO COnTaCT uS Phone: 404.842.0200 Fax: 404.266.0656 E-mail: apostles@apostles.org Web: www.apostles.org

wOrSHip Sunday: The Gathering of the Body: 9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening: 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday Hour of Power: 6:15 p.m.

DiSCipLeSHip Sunday: 9:00 a.m.

Leading The Way wiTH Dr. MiCHaeL yOuSSeF 1570 Northside Drive NW #100, Atlanta, GA 30318 Phone: 404.841.0100 Order: 1.800.337.5323 Web: www.leadingtheway.org

3585 Northside Parkway, NW | Atlanta, Georgia 30327