LETTER FROM THE LEAD
One thing business leaders agree on is the need for clarity. They often ask, “What business are we in?” and “How’s business?” The church is not a business. We are a close-knit family, a body in which every part is important, a temple in which God’s Spirit resides. But if I had to answer the question, “What business are we in,” the answer is not difficult. Jesus answers it in the Great Commission when He says, “make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:19). Here are two words that describe BACC: “make disciples.” That’s the heart of our mission statement: Making passionate maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations. We are in the business of making disciples from here to the nations.
“The bare bones of obedience is the intentional effort to define a disciple, then to produce disciples through various vehicles of the church.”
ways we believe disciples respond in faith. A disciple responds by loving God back, loving other believers, loving the unreached, and making disciples of a few.
If our business is to make disciples, then we better make the effort to define one! So let me share with you the “profile of a disciple” that your elders developed several years ago. Here’s how we define a disciple of Jesus: A disciple follows Jesus as Lord by receiving and responding to the Gospel.
Our response to the Gospel of Jesus is to love. Love God, love other believers, and love the lost. And our response is to intentionally make disciples. That means passing on to others what Jesus has taught us.
Disciples follow Jesus. That means disciples surrender their will to the Lord Jesus. Having surrendered, disciples follow by receiving and responding. Receiving means taking the posture of a child who is constantly coming to Jesus to receive grace, wisdom, love, and all he or she needs. In an effort to be simple and clear, we came up with four primary ways a disciple receives from Jesus. A disciple receives by meditating on the Scriptures, walking in the Spirit, persevering in prayer, and connecting in community. Don’t rush by these four things. Pause. Reflect. How would your life be different if you were constantly receiving from the Word, the Spirit, and through prayer or community?
A disciple responds by loving God back, loving other believers, loving the unreached, and making disciples of a few. So, when someone asks what Bay Area is all about, simply tell them the two words: “making disciples.” And if they probe you further on what a disciple is, tell them, “a disciple follows Jesus as Lord by receiving and responding to the Gospel.” Oh yes, and be sure to tell them how they can become of disciple of Jesus! Next month we’ll talk about “How’s business?” Making disciples from here to the nations,
Greg St. Cyr Lead Pastor
Years ago I read a book by Bill Hull on discipleship. Hull asks, “What qualifies Receiving always leads to responding. as obedience to the Great Commission?” As God reveals Himself, He calls us Great question. His answer gripped me, to a faith response. Here are four
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884 Chesterfield Rd. Annapolis, MD 21401
MAGAZINE CREDITS EDITOR IN CHIEF Josh Shirlen MANAGING EDITOR Arianne Teeple ART Josh Burgin Josh Shirlen CONTRIBUTORS Denise Perry Jocelyn Rimbey Sacks Rachel Perry
Cover photo by Josh Shirlen.
ELDERS John Battan Dennis Brady Tom Dalpini Tim Dotson Peter Godfrey Tim Grossman Rich Heath Roger Ishii Brian Mallare David McPeak Bill Smith Greg St. Cyr John Taylor J Upton
Gathering Times: 8am 9:30am 11:15am
BAY AREA LEADERSHIP Brent Squires, Student Ministry Pastor – brent.squires@bayareacc.org Brian Hopper, Missional Community Pastor – brian.hopper@bayareacc.org Casely Essamuah, Global Missions Pastor – casely.essamuah@bayareacc.org Ed Kelley, Executive Pastor – ed.kelley@bayareacc.org Gail Wiles, Children’s Ministry Director – gail.wiles@bayareacc.org Greg St. Cyr, Lead Pastor – greg.stcyr@bayareacc.org Janet Graves, Women’s Ministry Director – janet.graves@bayareacc.org Jocelyn Rimbey Sacks, Connecting Director – jocelyn.rimbey@bayareacc.org Josh Shirlen, Gathering Team Leader – josh.shirlen@bayareacc.org Leanne Lane, Care Network Director – leanne.lane@bayareacc.org Lynn Dutton, Financial Administrator – lynn.dutton@bayareacc.org Micah Pringle, Worship Leader – micah.pringle@bayareacc.org Pat Linnell, Teaching Pastor – pat.linnell@bayareacc.org Ron Dutton, Operations Director – ron.dutton@bayareacc.org Tres Cozad, Technical Director – tres.cozad@bayareacc.org
For a comprehensive list of all BACC staff, elders and deacons, please visit bayareacc.org/leadership
MICAH’S MIX Both of the albums this month are from tried and true artists that may already be household names for many of you. While the names are familiar, the songs are fresh represntations, so give them a listen! by: Micah Pringle (BACC Worship Leader)
Michael W. Smith “Sovereign” Yep, that’s right. I said Michael W. Smith. He’s still around and putting out records. While I personally think the album feels a bit over-produced, it makes sense because he writes Christian radio hits. So this recommendation is a homage to a man who’s helped pave the way for many that have come and are still coming after him.
Desperation Band “Banner” Desperation Band has put out another great album of worship-centric tunes. While the arrangements and music aren’t really anything new (it has a similar sound as you’ll hear from Hillsong, Bethel, etc.), it’s still worth snagging.
BOOK: Beyond Opinion Living the Faith We Defend AUTHOR: Ravi Zacharias on many issues while in the process of presenting and defending the Jesus he knew. Beyond Opinion by evangelist/ apologist Ravi Zacharias (who is flat out brilliant FYI) is an academic treatise on how to dialogue about faith. But it’s more than just academics, the book presses the reader to go People who know me know beyond mere understanding I love a good debate. I love of facts and consider three to slosh around in the things: muck of ideas and thought, philosophy and politics, 1. To wrestle honestly with theology and history. I every question. I have love the give and take of found that people quite often argument. It seems to me don’t want to wrestle with that far too few Christians issues because, it’s not fun are taking up the mantle of (sometimes a bit depressing to defending the faith in the realize how temporal we are public square ergo many and how depraved mankind bad ideas and mindsets go is). We are called to test unchallenged. Paul would everything (1 Thess. 5.21-22) go to the synagogues of and filter the evil out, and hold towns prepared to debate on to the good. This includes the veracity of the Messiah worldviews and thinking and and how He was the only philosophy and yes...theology. true Savior. Having been on Mars Hill in Athens, 2. To internalize the answers. one can imagine him There are tough questions out debating the “wise ones” there and the more we know
the answers...deeply know them...the more effect we can have on our culture and individuals. This goes to 1 Peter 3:15 and our preparation to give answers to those who ask us, “Why do you believe?”
lunch. The construction superintendent came to me today and expressed his heartfelt gratitude for that action (among others) and how we as a church had “won them over” and how they’d been talking out on the worksite 3. To live out those answers what a great place this was. before a watching world. Folks, we live in a fishbowl. The They made that distinction crazy thing about a fishbowl because they’re interacting is the fish never know when with our office people, EK5, someone is watching. We are Ron Dutton and mostly David those fish. The world simply Mitchell. That’s living our faith can’t accept a faith that makes out: defending it all the while no difference in behavior. We being watched by people in have to be a living defense our fish bowls. of the faith. We can’t cuss. We have to have different Mr. Zacharias explains that standards of watching movies. apologetics is an intellectual We can’t just break the law, exercise at first, but to have whether it’s speeding or our it end there would be tragic. taxes. We have to be aware This book is a classic book that where we can help someone should be on everyone’s shelf. and...do it. It’s a game changer. David Mitchell, our construction representative on the new building, brought a grill out to the construction site and cooked the workers
- Ed Kelley Executive Pastor
because from a distance, everything looked normal. Yet clearly, the neighborhood (and Doug and Leanne) felt they could have done more. Or at least, been close enough to help.
SPOTLIGHT
ON
This event, coupled with a deeper desire for community, led Doug and Leanne to talk with their MC about being more OUT focused in order to help them reach their neighborhood. Though many of their group live in other communities, Doug and Leanne decided to partner with another couple who live nearby and begin loving their neighbors right in their culde-sac. They created a flyer and invited 100 houses in their neighborhood to join them for a social gathering at their house. They called it “Court is in Session” and told people to come and bring a beverage, a child, a dog… and a friend (the “ABCD’s” of their “Court”).
Their first “Court in Session” brought over 12 people, several who Doug and Leanne barely knew. They set up a grill in the driveway and grilled while the kids played in the culBy: Brian Hopper de-sac. They cooked, they talked, they played, and they built community. When the evening came to a close, one of their neighbors who loved the evening offered to host the next The command to “love your neighbor as yourself” one on her cul-de-sac. So the second “Court in Session” was is a favorite Bible verse about love. These exact words are planned before the first one ended! found multiple times in the Scriptures (8 to be exact). Yet, when it comes to actually “loving our neighbors,” we rarely The second “Court in Session” had over 20 people. One family know how to do it because ironically, most of us don’t know even erected a screen to show a movie for the kids, while the our neighbors. Perhaps Jesus meant more than our literal parents hung out, talked, and got to know one another. Again, neighbors when He said this. But if we are actually going to relationships started and people grew closer. The third event follow this command, then starting with our literal neighbors is already planned and will likely bring over 30 people. This simple effort has begun might be a good place. to reweave a community And that’s what Missional of people who were once Community leaders Doug separate and disconnected. and Leanne Lane recently decided to do. What is important to note here is that, though many Years ago, neighborhoods in the neighborhood don’t like Doug and Leanne’s used realize it, Doug and Leanne to be close. People knew An example of how to love your neighbors are modeling what it looks one another, families were like to care for one another connected, and cul-de-sacs were close. As times changed and people’s lives grew busier and love each other. By facilitating a consistent event to and more fragmented, neighborhoods and communities connect people, they are setting the stage for Jesus to be broke down. Leanne says they have an older neighbor, an introduced. By breaking down the walls of individualism original home owner in the neighborhood, who can recall and reconnecting people who live among one another, they when everyone was connected. They tell stories and show are building relationships and establishing trust. From this photos of previous residents that all knew one another, helped place, Doug and Leanne will get to know what the real needs one another, and served one another - clearly, characteristics of their neighbors are and be Jesus to them. No doubt, we will hear stories of families coming to faith and people joining of a different era. our church who were directly touched by the court being in Now the front porches, the former place where everyone session. Doug and Leanne are literally loving their neighbor connected, have been replaced with privacy fences and and demonstrating the beautiful picture of community and decks in the back yard. Parking on the street, where everyone mission working together… a missional community. could be seen, has been replaced with attached garages and electric doors. Joseph Myers in his book The Search to If you are are interested in joining a Missional Belong, correlates these subtle shifts in home construction Community, join us for our MC Taster (second Sunday to a breakdown of community among neighbors. Where of every month). It’s a luncheon and info session led by everyone once knew their neighbors and did community our MC Pastor, Brian Hopper. You’ll learn what an MC together, now everyone is individualistic and isolated. This is, what it isn’t, what it looks like to live in community, point was made all too clear when one of Doug and Leanne’s and hear of open MC opportunities. neighbors committed suicide. It rocked their neighborhood
MISSIONAL COMMUNITY
THE COURT
IS IN SESSION:
Keys To The Kingdom By: Pat Linnell
Hold up, I just got slightly churchy. Let me rephrase this. You and I have the same good news to tell that the Apostles did. This good news about eternal life through Jesus is the message that opens the door to the Kingdom of God. This responsibility is like having the keys that will open doors of faith for people. The responsibility is yours and mine.
I f some benevolent car fanatic gave
you the keys to a 2014 Lamborghini Gallardo, would you take it for a spin? Never heard of that car? It’s a luxury car pretty much just built for speed. I can only imagine that it’s exciting to drive. It’s light years away from the 7 year old minivan that I proudly poke around in. Holler at me all you minivan-ers. Sure we are looked down upon in the big world of automobile enthusiasts, but we have practicality on our side, decent gas mileage, and a greater likelihood not to get pulled over. Ok, cars not your thing? Then let’s say someone gives you the keys to a vacation house on the water, would you go have yourself a stay? Bring the family and the dog. Or ditch the family and just bring your dog. I’m venturing to guess, if you saw the crystal clear waters lapping against the white sandy beach, you would pack up the flip flops and start cranking some Jimmy Buffett. The thing is, if we were entrusted the keys to just about anything that would lead to an adventure, we would not hesitate to put them to good use. Why is it then, that when we are handed the keys to the Kingdom of God, we shy away from embarking on that adventure? When it comes to these keys – we like to leave the driving to the “professionals.” But as the church,
Why am I scared to drive? There are as many reasons as there are people that we have fear when it comes to proclaiming the forgiveness of sins we are all given the stewardship and and eternal life through faith and responsibility of opening the door of faith repentance in Jesus. Some us have a to the unbelieving world around us. We fear of public speaking, even in smaller are all handed the keys. But often, we’d groups. Some of us are introverts. Some of us fear being viewed as a Bible rather hand them back. thumper. Others fear the inability to What are the “keys to the kingdom” respond to hard questions. Some fear the rejection of peers, or being labeled exactly? Simply, the keys are a metaphor for as intolerant. For all these reasons stewardship, particularly, stewardship of and more, it just seems better for the the Gospel. Jesus first makes mention of “church” to keep the keys. this in Matthew 16 as he speaks to Peter, after Peter’s confession that Jesus is the One common source of our fear is Christ. He tells Peter that he will give that we picture ourselves standing him the keys, and in conjunction that alone trying to share this faith of ours. he will also be given authority to “bind Let me offer one comforting thought and loose.” This is rabbinic language that might drive out some fear in this for telling people what is and isn’t in regard. There are two seats in the accordance with the will of God. This Lamborghini, seven in the van, and authority was not exclusive to Peter as we plenty of rooms in the house. When we see, just two Chapters later in Matthew are given the keys, we are able to drive 18 Jesus, speaking this authority over the out together, not alone. When the first Apostles launched out, they had a close other disciples as well. network of friends, a support system, a To solidify this view we observe the keys community around them. Even in his of the Kingdom in action all throughout training Jesus sent the disciples out two the book of Acts. It looks like this: the by two. Apostles preach the good news of a resurrected Jesus and the forgiveness of sins in his name, God saves people, churches start and grow, repeat. This is a cycle of salvation that continues today as followers of Jesus proclaim the Gospel, and the Father draws people to the Son in the power of the Holy Spirit, ushering them out of the dominion of darkness into the kingdom of light.
We need to embrace the adventure of driving out together, not alone. We are better stewards of the keys of the Kingdom, as we share them with each other. Simply put, in your calling proclaim good news to a lost world, bring along a friend. And remember this, if you had a minivan, you could bring more friends.
By: Jocelyn Rimbey Sacks Beyond884: Room for People is a vision to follow Jesus’ Great Commission to make disciples all over the world, from right here at 884 Chesterfield Road to Annapolis, DC, India, and Sudan. It’s been a busy few months here at Bay Area Community Church. Think Best Summer Ever, Summer Jam, retreats and events for student ministry, and a family picnic. We also had a few Saturday Night Singalongs and events that help us grow, like Art of Marriage. We plugged people into missional communities and had an awesome response to Serve Like Jesus. This, all in the midst of family vacations, slumber parties, sports, or weekend adventures. You could say we were all a little busy. Well, God was busy, too. In July, DC church planter Steven Lee came to preach as part of our Frontlines series. It kicked off a 5-week giving period in which we raised $9,650 to help with church plant start up costs. Since then, Steven and his wife Tiffany have started holding regular Sunday gatherings with the intention of bringing the gospel to Washington, D.C. We continue to help them, whether through leadership as part of The Sent Network or by helping them make lanyards for their staff and volunteers.
Bay Area pastors pray over the new chapel.
In September, over 200 of the Bay Area family participated in the Annapolis Pregnancy Clinic 5K Walk/Run for Life. Through sponsors and fundraising efforts, we raised over $16,000. The day after the 5K, Greg gave a moving sermon on sanctity of life and the hope of Christ. It kicked off another 5-week giving period which has culminated in over $52,000. The combined total of over $68,000 will help pay off their mortgage, freeing up funds that will be used to reach more women and save more
lives. We’ve even seen many of you volunteer your time to serve with them. We not only are witnessing growth for Steven Lee’s church plant or the Annapolis Pregnancy Clinic; we’re seeing a physical expansion take place right here at 884 Chesterfield Road. The chapel and expanded children’s wing is quickly taking shape, and it’s a good thing, because the need is ever present. Sunday gathering attendance is up about 14% since last year. To help make room, we added the 8 AM gathering to make room for people. Yet we continue to need more space as more people come to hear the life-changing, destinyaltering news of Jesus Christ. We continue to hear more and more news of surrender, healing and transformation for lives, families, and marriages. The children also continue to come. Attendance in The Deep Blue, Bay Area’s children’s ministry, has quickly climbed to over 400 children EACH SUNDAY. We’ve sacrificed some areas in the building to accommodate so many, but more space is needed as we continue to disciple children and partner with parents to commit their families to Jesus. Whatever His reason is, God continues to pour out His grace here at Bay Area and in the ministries we partner with through Beyond884. But there is still more ground to take. Let us not get weary. There is fruit, my friends, in what God has called us to do together, however impossible or improbable it seems. Let us continue to make room for others to encounter our forgiving, life-changing, transforming, amazing, sovereign God.
If you’d like to learn more about Beyond884: Room for People or how you can support this eternally-minded cause, visit www.beyond884.com.
LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
Leanne
Lane Boston-area native Leanne Lane grew up in a church-going family and loved attending youth group as a teen, but the message of having a personal relationship with Jesus would remain foreign to her well into adulthood. She owned a Bible, but admits she never really looked at it. Early in their 32 years of marriage, Leanne and husband Doug attended a small church in Connecticut where everyone knew everyone and took on a leadership role. “They asked me to be a deacon and I had no idea what it meant,” she recalled. It wasn’t until after the Lanes adopted their son, Michael, that Leanne realized she couldn’t do life on her own: She needed help. Doug’s transient Coast Guard career led their small but growing family to Green Bay, Wisconsin, in 1995, where between adopting daughter Usha and cheering on The Pack to their third Super Bowl win, 41-year-old Leanne found Jesus in a community church. “It was there that I really heard the message of Jesus, of his saving grace,” she explained. “There was a gentle giant of a man who sought us out every Sunday and invited us to his home group, and it was there that I came to faith … I know in retrospect that God had been pursuing me all of my life; I just didn’t know that it was Him.” Shortly before moving to Maryland in 2000, Doug came to Washington, D.C., for a meeting, and found himself perched on metal bleachers in the gymnasium of Annapolis High School one Sunday morning as Bay Area Community Church held a baptism service. Testimonies were shared, and Doug was sold; three months later the Lanes moved from California to Millersville, and have attended Bay Area ever since. With a master’s degree in social work and extensive experience working with families, Leanne was a natural fit for volunteering with BACC’s Care Network, then known as the Mercy Ministry. As the congregation’s needs increased, so did her service, and Leanne ultimately joined the church staff to head the ministry that connects people with resources and guides them to hope and healing as they walk through difficult times in life.
by Meredith Thompson “My primary goal is to assess the needs of people who are looking for help,” she highlighted, using the imagery of triage to illustrate the mission of the Care Network in determining where people are in life to pinpoint how their needs can best be met so they can enjoy a more abundant life. “Another part of my job is to find resources in the community – people and programs and places – with which we can partner.” Leanne also provides training for Care Network coaches, or members of the church body who love the Lord, have experienced His healing, and have a heart of compassion to walk alongside others who are in need of care. The avid outdoorswoman noted she used to believe the Network needed many more coaches, though today her hope is that Missional Communities play the primary role in providing places for people to receive and provide care. “I love working with people. It’s such a privilege to hear their story and then help them toward healing,” she said with a smile. “Giving them hope, letting them know they’ve been heard, that they’re not alone in what they’re struggling with, and then seeing them flourish when they grab onto the helps, the support we’re able to direct them to, and then after that, come alongside somebody else – that’s a beautiful picture [of what the Care Network is all about].” Shortly after Casely and Angela Essamuah came to Bay Area in 2005, Leanne was talking with Angela when she received an invitation that would develop into a passion for global missions. “She said to me, ‘You should come to Africa’ … and I said, ‘Sure,’ not really knowing what I was getting involved in,” Leanne confessed, laughing. “I’ve been seven times and I have an eighth trip coming up in February.” Each year, Leanne and the Uganda missions team minister to the HIV/AIDS community by connecting people with medical services and bringing them food, clothing and, most importantly, the gospel of Jesus Christ. Between planning mission trips and co-leading a Missional Community with Doug, Leanne enjoys gardening, reading and exploring the nooks and crannies of the Magothy and Severn rivers by kayak. This past June, she and Doug took a step closer to being empty nesters as 26-year-old Michael got married, and they are so excited to watch 24-year-old Usha walk down the aisle this month. Looking forward as the church continues to grow, Leanne expressed it’s her hope that the Care Network continues to partner with all of Bay Area’s ministries in caring for people and walking with them through life’s difficult times. “It’s my desire that we could all be vulnerable, that we don’t have to wear these masks when we’re coming in, but that we can say, ‘I’m having a rough day,’” she said. “There are people here who want to help, and that’s what the body of Christ is all about.”
“I love working with people. It’s such a privilege to hear their story and then help them toward healing.”
By Josh Shirlen
E
ach year, around this time, the change begins to happen. Things begin to look, sound, and smell distinctly different. For a brief season our entire culture shifts. It starts in public spaces like malls and town centers as lavish decorations are suspended overhead. Next, your favorite radio station starts playing carols around the clock. Your neighborhood is adorned with hanging lights that turn the evening hours into a winter wonderland. You bring an evergreen tree into your living room where every TV show and commercial proclaim: Christmas is coming. For most of us it’s a welcome season. We look forward to celebrating the birth of Christ together with family and friends. For children, the intense anticipation of receiving gifts predominates daily thought. There’s a happy anxiety we produce for them in the days leading up to Christmas morning by repeatedly asking, “What do you want for Christmas?” and “What is Santa bringing you?” But this is not a reality for everyone at Christmas. For thousands of needy families in our region, the Christmas season brings about concern in parents for how they will provide this same joy and hope for their children. It’s not uncommon for children in certain areas of Maryland and West Virginia to have no presents on Christmas morning. The impact of this experience is heart-breaking and this Christmas, we’re planning to do something about it.
You’ve seen all the changes happening, the world around you converted into the North Pole. Your senses and emotion acutely aware of the mounting excitement. The stories of Santa, the jolly man, and his elves preparing to bring presents to all of the good little boys and girls of the world. Now imagine Christmas morning coming, and passing, without touching your home. “Was I too bad for Santa?” “Was I forgotten?” “Do I even matter to anyone?” It’s important to understand that a material gift, especially at Christmas, is far more significant to a child than an adult. Possessions, in general, hold great significance to children. It’s likely you’ve had the experience of a young person coming up to you to show off some common item as if it is a prized possession. “Look at this rock! I found it and it’s mine!” “This is my favorite teddy bear, he goes everywhere with me!” These “things” help a child to form their identity, to feel loved, and to have a sense of value. Most of all, the Christmas gift gives a child hope. Conversely, when a child is not provided for at Christmas they feel forgotten, unvalued, and their self-esteem plunges. In light of this, it’s vital that we see the giving of gifts to needy children as something of great importance to God. In Matthew 25:40 we understand Jesus’ heart for the needy when he says, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” Jesus also has a huge heart for children and to become more like him is to share his compassion for needy children.
Try to put yourself in the shoes of a needy child at Christmas. At Bay Area this Christmas, we are going to respond to the
needs of children in our region in a big way. We’ve decided to focus all of our local outreach efforts on families in need of gifts for their kids. We’ve partnered with the Walk the Walk Foundation (WTW) to distribute, collect and deliver gifts starting November 23rd at the church. You’ll be able to choose a family or a child that you’d like to purchase gifts for. When you return your gifts, WTW will make sure they get into the hands of the children by Christmas morning. They also ensure that each family is given a Bible. This Christmas season, when you sit down to make your christmas shopping list, we hope that along with your sons and daughters, nieces and nephews, as an act of worship, you’ll consider adding a needy child or family to your list.
Giving gifts to children impacts parents too. Kim Mitchell, founder of The Walk The Walk Foundation shared this story: Bluefield, West Virginia A mother and her children show up at a church to pick up gifts delivered by The Walk The Walk Foundation. The father stayed at home wanting nothing to do with church or free handouts. When the family returned home the father was greatly moved by the abundance of gifts that had been given. He attributed the generosity to the church and his hardened heart began to soften. He vowed to pay back the debt he felt for the church’s kindness so he decided he and his family would begin attending the church to repay their debt through serving. While serving at the church to repay a debt that didn’t exist, the father found Jesus and nts gift recipie the Walk was saved. Today, the father and his family lk a W st a P are heavily involved in the ministry of the church, and it all started with a Christmas gift.
Dave and Kim Mitchell pictured with a family at a West Virginia distribution center.
Local Outreach By Trevin Hoekzema
Do you know the Mitchells? Maybe you read about their short-term missions experience in last month’s issue of Go & Make. Or maybe you know one of the four children from their involvement in Bay Area’s children’s and student ministries over the years. Or maybe you’re one of the lucky ones to call them friends. Either way, there is something about them you should definitely know. David Mitchell and his wife Kim founded Walk the Walk (WTW), a local organization that seeks “to make a difference in the lives of people and communities in need through community development programs.” These programs are engaging, effective, and ethical thanks to the systems they’ve created over the nearly ten years they’ve been “walking the walk.” Programs that put filled backpacks in the hands of needy school children; programs that provide diapers for new mothers; programs that bring Christmas into the homes of families who wouldn’t have Christmas otherwise. WTW is an outstanding organization that resources thousands of people and children each year.
loss of a child, painful instances in our family story. But in looking back we would not be doing this today if we had not had all of those yesterdays. “Obviously we have a heart for children and meeting their needs. During the Christmas season, I would look for a little boy to buy for that would have been the age of the son that we lost. Then, one Christmas, a friend asked if I knew of any “needy kids.” She wanted to set up an angel tree in the Hair Salon where she worked. My immediate thought was of the school where my Aunt Evelyn Linkous was principal -- Lashameet/Motoka in West Virginia. My aunt had taken us to her school that past summer and riding through the winding hills I saw lots of needs. I called her and asked if she knew of any needy kids. She said, ‘How many can you handle’?” That first Christmas in 2005, they helped sponsor 68 children. Even after Christmas was over bags of donations would just show up at their garage door. They realized there was a desire to serve and a need to be served and they were the avenue to connect the two. So they created a foundation to channel resources through and allocated most of their own time, treasure, and talents towards WTW. “We’re called to give to others and we wanted to teach our kids to do the same,” said David. Not only were they convicted by their faith to care for others, but they were convicted by their roles as parents to be good role models. Over the next few years, the Mitchells continued to develop the scope and breadth of WTW. Eventually they were able (and needed) to hire a full-time staff member, Chelsea MacCubbin.
Like a lot of great establishments in our society today, WTW started in a garage. Kim recounts the beginnings of their organization (this excerpt taken from their website www.wtwf.org):
Chelsea started as the Communications Director two years ago and now acts as the Executive Director. Her passion for the organization, for loving people, and for making an impact is not only inspiring, but contagious, too. She manages the three major programs that WTW focuses on throughout the year: Walk of Christmas (their biggest), Back to School Backpack Drive, and Diaper Donations. She also increases the WTW partnership network and continuously seeks to improve the already stellar systems set in place for each program. With Chelsea’s new position as the Executive Director, David and Kim have more free time to invest personal time in their family, friends, and other ventures.
“Over the years many things have happened to help prepare our hearts for this. Our family experienced health crises and the
Between now and Christmas, you’ll hear the name Walk the Walk again. We’ll partner with Walk the Walk to give to children in need. If you’d like to get involved with WTW, email Chelsea at chelsea@wtwf.org.
A SHORT-TERM MISSIONS EXPERIENCE By: Ashleigh Bicevskis
Jacob and Nicole Gingrich have been part of Bay Area
One of their fondest and most intimate memories was from their time at the home of a couple they met. This couple, Jacek and Kasia, has developed a very strong relationship with the Otrembas and make up their core team. During the time in their home, Jacob and Nicole were able to encourage the couple in their faith and in their efforts towards family members to come to know Jesus. As Jacob and Nicole explained, one thing the couple greatly struggles with is explaining their faith to their family. They no longer practice Catholicism but focus Both Jacob and Nicole have had previous short-term missions solely on their relationship with Jesus. But in Poland, to be experience but have never had the opportunity to serve in a Polish is to be Catholic. So Jacek and Kasia have a difficult global missions capacity together. The two were very excited time standing up for what they believe in when they only to serve alongside each other. As Nicole put it, “God was have a select few friends who share their faith. Jacob and preparing Jacob and I as a couple to experience something Nicole were able to encourage, pray for, and revitalize Jacek new.” and Kasia in a moment when they needed it most. Community Church’s body for two years now and are actively involved in their missional community. They recently “made the trade” and went on a Bay Area short-term missions trip where they were greatly influenced by their experience of serving alongside Tomek and Damaris Otremba, Bay Area’s missionaries to Poland, as well as seeing the need for Jesus in that country.
Jacob and Nicole saw the Lord answer prayers and work in amazing ways. While in Poland, Jacob, Nicole, and their teammates acted as support to the Otremba’s ministry, doing whatever would bolster their efforts. The team participated in daily prayer walks all over the town of Cieszyn, providing much needed intercessory prayer. In the evenings, they helped host outreach events where the Otrembas invited neighbors, friends, and acquaintances over for ladies’ craft nights and a guys’ cook out night. On two separate nights, Jacob and Nicole shared their testimonies with the Polish guests, providing an opportunity for the Otrembas to talk about the gospel. In addition, the team was able to help the Otrembas with administrative and organizational tasks for their ministry. The administrative tasks were often neglected with so many other things to focus on.
Jacob and Nicole have since gotten back into the swing of things. They were greatly impacted by the community they built with those on their team while in Poland. One of their desires before leaving for Poland was to meet like-minded believers they could form community with. When sharing about this, Nicole said, “It’s amazing that God can bring such a unique group of people together and make them lifelong friends. I know that if I need prayer or advice, I can turn to my new family for that support.” This was exactly what they needed and the Lord answered their prayer. When asked what he would tell those thinking about going on a short term missions trip next year, Jacob said, “GO! I see no reason why you should not go on a trip. I was always taught to answer the call and say ‘Yes, I will go!’”
CARE NETWORK
HAPPENINGS
BAPTISM Wo u l d y o u l i ke t o b e b a p t i z e d ?
There are times when every one of us experiences difficulties such as the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, divorce, job loss, addiction, discouragement, spiritual crisis, loneliness, parenting difficulties and many other challenges. God’s intention is that we engage with others and not walk alone through these circumstances! And Jesus wants to see us through the challenges instead of avoiding them or going around them. The Care Network is a free, confidential, Christ-centered ministry that assists those seeking help by serving as a bridge to hope and healing through a variety of resources. We offer appropriate referrals and resources such as a Care Coach, a Missional Community, financial assistance, Celebrate Recovery, Christian Counselors, or an appropriate agency or program in the community. If you need some help or have questions, email leanne.lane@bayareacc.org for more information.
• K-5th contact: gail.wiles@bayareacc.org • 6-12th contact: brent.squires@bayareacc.org • Adults: Join us for a group baptism class on November 16 @ 9:30 AM in the front office. Contact arianne.teeple@bayareacc.org for more information. CELEBRATE RECOVERY Celebrate Recovery is for anyone seeking a richer life through worshipping God and being in community with others. Don’t let your hurts, habits, and hangups keep you isolated. Let Celebrate Recovery be a place of healing, hope, and community for you! We meet every Monday night, even on holidays, at 7 PM for worship, a lesson, open share groups, and fellowship. We share a meal together every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 6-7 PM. The 3rd Monday is a potluck dinner. Stop by our kiosk in the lobby every 1st Sunday of the month to talk with Celebrate Recovery representatives and learn more. Contact Tom at tmuth57@gmail.com or leanne.lane@ bayareacc.org for more information.
C ON N E CT W ITH B AY AREA If you’re new or just have a question, we’d love to meet you and help you get plugged in. Look for a member of our connect team in a blue shirt in the lobby after each Sunday gathering or visit us online at www.bayareacc.org/waystoconnect
CELEBRATION PLACE This is a free, 52-week complementary resource for children, ages 1-12, of parents attending Celebrate Recovery on Monday nights. So while adults explore topics that bring healing and wholeness, children discover the same truths in age appropriate ways. There is limited space, so please be sure to secure a spot for your child/children. Contact Jen Marshall at celebration.station.group@gmail.com for more information.
PREMARITAL MENTORING Are you engaged or thinking about getting engaged? Premarital mentoring is just what you need! Strong marriages are the cornerstone of a healthy, Jesus-centered family. Our marriage ministry equips future and existing marriages with the tools they need to make it in marriage. The premarital mentor program pairs couples with marriage mentors, couples who have been married for 10+ years, to help prepare them for marriage. It doesn’t matter whether a BACC Pastor is officiating at your wedding, being prepared is the key! This is the best gift you can give each other as you start your life together as man and wife. Contact Todd & Kim Christner at premarital. ministry@bayareacc.org for more information. DIVORCE CARE Have you experienced a divorce and perhaps been a part of a DivorceCare group or another Jesus-focused support group? The Care Network is looking for those individuals/ couples who have been supported and encouraged through attending a support group and now may be interested in leading a divorce support group here at BACC. Contact leanne.lane@bayareacc.org for more information. PRODIGAL CHILDREN SUPPORT Luke 15: 11-32 tells us the parable of the lost son. He leaves home, lives his life the way he wants to, and thankfully, he eventually returns to his father. This child has become known as the “Prodigal Child.” While this parable is part of Jesus’s messages describing God’s love for all of us, for some families it is reality. The journey/trial of having a prodigal is incredibly challenging. If you are a parent that has a prodigal, you are not alone. Contact leanne.lane@bayareacc. org for more information about how BACC can lend support & encouragement to you. HOSPITAL/HOMEBOUND VISITATION If you or a loved one is in the hospital or homebound we would love to serve you. Contact us so that we can learn more about how to be of assistance. Contact leanne.lane@ bayareacc.org or phone at 443-837-3718.
CONNECTING MINISTRY
DISCOVER BAY AREA New to Bay Area? Welcome! Join us in the Bay Cafe for Discover Bay Area on November 2 from 12:30-1:30 PM to learn more about who we are, what we are about, and how you can get plugged in. It’s a great chance for you to get to know us and for us to get to know you. Free lunch included. No RSVP needed - just bring yourself! We hope to see you there! Our next Discover will be on December 7.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Amanda Boggs began serving in the Tidal Pool to bless parents of nursery aged children so they could participate in the gathering. She too has young children and knows how important it is that parents are being fed and poured into. She loves being a part of a team that assures families that Bay Area’s littlest ones are safe and loved on Sunday mornings. Amanda, we are grateful for your servants heart, you are a blessing to the nursery team. Vicky and Lindsay Cole serve together as a mother/daughter team. Vicky works as a Thoracic Surgery Physician Assistant and Lindsay is a school social worker. They both love spending time with their families. It’s obvious they both have a heart for children and families and consider it a privilege and blessing to see children realize God’s love, His provision for them, and the development of a spiritual foundation for their lives. We are so thankful to have them as a part of our preschool team discipling the next generation! Shelly Fedash is one of our amazing 1st grade community group leaders at the 9:30 AM Sunday gathering. Her heart for Jesus and children comes through in the loving way she disciples our kids! When she isn’t serving she enjoys boating and waking up to the sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay with her husband and two children. Thank you Shelly for all you do!
DIVE 45 We’re having a movie night for fourth and fifth grade students! Join us Friday, November 7 from 7-9 PM for a night of fun with your community group leaders and friends. We’ll watch a movie on the big screen and tye-dye a couple
of shirts (you’ll keep-one and give-one). Be sure to bring money to buy pizza and other theatre snacks and a t-shirt to tye-dye. We will provide the dying supplies. Contact tammy. taschenberger@bayareacc.org
FINANCIALS Operating Budget Financial Update September 30, 2014 New Fiscal Year Began September 1, 2014 Fiscal Year Giving Goal
$ 3,832,000
YTD Giving Goal YTD Received YTD Actual vs. Goal 22.5 % Behind SEPTEMBER Giving Goal SEPTEMBER Received
$ 327,380 $ 253,585 $ (73,795) $ 327,380 $ 253,585
Building Debt Status as of September 30, 2014 Balance Due Fiscal YTD Donations TAKE IT HOME EVENT Join us Sunday, November 16 at 12:45 PM upstairs in the Deep End for lunch. Together families will learn how simple and fun faith conversations can be continued at home. You will also be the first to see the Take it Home Christmas packets we’ve put together for your family this Christmas season. We’ll also be packing 50 boxes together for Operation Christmas Child (Samaritan’s Purse) to share the love of Jesus around the world. We’re encouraging families to bring a special toy or gift to add to a box and $7 to cover the cost of shipping. The last day to register is November 9. RSVP online today at bayareacc.org/deepblueevents
GATHERINGS SATURDAY NIGHT SINGALONG Join us for Saturday Night Singalong on November 1 at 6 PM. This is a great opportunity to rest in worship, prayer, and testimony as a church body. There will be a special space for children to worship with the adults. Therefore we will not have Kidcare.
$ 1,906,403 $ 1,100
For weekly financial updates, please visit us online at www.bayareacc.org/financials Please be sure to designate all Building Fund Donations on the Memo Line of your check: “One & Only Life” for Existing Debt or “Beyond884” for the Building Expansion & Beyond884 Outreach. Please note all undesignated checks will go toward the Bay Area Operating Fund. How Do I Support The Cause of Beyond884: Room For People? Preferred Methods (no fees charged) Direct Debit: Go to www.beyond884.com/give to download the form. Mail completed form to the BACC Finance Department and we will debit your checking account directly each month. Personal Check: Write “Beyond884” on the memo line and drop it in the offering basket on Sunday or mail the check to BACC (884 Chesterfield Road, Annapolis, MD 21401). Bank Check: Process through your bank’s Bill Pay service online for a bank check to be sent to BACC. Be sure to note “Beyond884” on the memo line.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
GLOBAL MISSIONS
KIDCARE TEAM MEMBERS Our team consists of individuals who have a heart for kids. Our workers are paid and we are consistently looking to add to our team. We provide KidCare to all ministries of Bay Area from the Well, Celebrate Recovery, Missional Communities, and different events throughout the year. If you or someone you know are interested in joining, contact jen.marshall@bayareacc.org or visit the Children’s Welcome Desk on Sundays for more info.
PRAYER Our missionaries around the world need our relentless prayer. Sign up to receive prayer updates by going to bayareacc.org/globalmissions and filling out the sign-up form on the bottom of the page. Please also pray for our short term missions teams leaving later this year. Please consider giving, over and above, to support those going on short term missions this year. You can give by going to bayareacc.org/stm and hit GIVE.
GLOBAL MISSIONS CONTINUED... EL SALVADOR: Great Commission Church November 8 - 16 Led by Steve & Janice Onken - Full INDIA: ICBM Rescheduled for January 3-15, 2015 Led by Mike and Stephanie Lane - Full UGANDA: HIV/AIDS Ministry and renovation of medical clinic February 2015, led by Leanne Lane & Angela Essamuah SUDAN SEA CONTAINER PROJECT Bay Area Community Church is going to be sending a container of needed materials to Sudan later this year. We are looking for highly motivated, organized, servant leaders to form a task force for this significant ministry. If you are interested, please contact casely.essamuah@bayareacc.org
LEARNING COMMUNITIES SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES This new 4 week learning community starts on November 16 at 11:15 AM in The Docks (side B) with David and Betsy McPeak. Eternal life begins now - with a real, conversational, joyful relationship with God. But how does that actually happen? Come and experience tried-and-true practical disciplines that any follower of Jesus can do. Learn how to actually walk with God in a daily, personal, life-giving way. Sign up online at bayareacc.org/learningcommunities Week 1 How to get into the Word and get the Word into you. Week 2 How to talk and listen to Jesus. Week 3 How to stay connected to God throughout your day. Week 4 How disciples of Jesus connect with other people.
LOCAL OUTREACH LOCAL SERVING OPPORTUNITIES Missional Communities often don’t know how to get involved with serving locally. We’re here to help. Email trevin. hoekzema@bayareacc.org to start the conversation. There are many organizations in the Annapolis area that will be blessed by your involvement; we’d love to connect you with them. MOBILE BLOOD DRIVE Please share the gift of life by donating blood on November 16 to accident victims, babies, cancer patients, and others in need. If you are not able, please encourage someone else to donate blood in your place. Sign up to donate at mysignup. com/bacc or simply walk to the Anne Arundel Medical Center Blood Mobile bus that will be sitting outside the center front doors of BACC on November 16 from 8 AM to 1 PM.
OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE AUDIO/VIDEO TEAM: We’re looking for a few more passionate, committed people to partner with our Sunday production team. Contact micah.pringle@bayareacc.org BAY CAFÉ: Interested in serving in the Bay Café? Contact deb.shipley@bayareacc.org CHAIR MINISTRY: Serve on the chair setup/tear-down team. Contact ron.dutton@ bayareacc.org COMMUNION TEAM: Interested in preparing the communion elements on Sunday mornings once a month? Contact arianne.teeple@bayareacc.org PARKING MINISTRY: Serve by directing traffic and greeting those arriving at church. Contact Steve at parking@ bayareacc.org SAFETY TEAM: If you are passionate about safety or have experience in security, law enforcement, EMS, First Responders, come be part of helping our church stay safe. Contact Ed at safety@bayareacc.org STUDENT MINISTRY: If you are interested in serving middle and high school students contact michaela.graf-jones@bayareacc.org WOMENS MINISTRY: Interested in serving on an event committee for Women’s Ministry this year? Contact janet.graves@ bayareacc.org for more information.
PRAYER MINISTRY Did you know BACC has an entire ministry devoted to prayer? The BACC Prayer Ministry is made up of teams of individuals devoted to gathering in prayer for the church worship gatherings, the pastors, our missional efforts and missionaries, the ministries of the church, those who are sick or saddened by grief and those who are wrestling with life’s struggles. The Prayer Ministry provides an opportunity for us to gather together and share our hearts with our Father who loves us. Let’s pray together. The prayer room is located on the second floor of BACC. For more information about prayer or the teams, go online to bayareacc.org/prayer or contact pat.linnell@bayareacc.org
MEN’S BIBLE STUDY
AACC STUDENT COMMUNITY Are you a student at Anne Arundel Community College and looking to get connected in community with other MEN’S MORNING BIBLE STUDY Christians? Email Trevin at trevin.hoekzema@bayareacc.org Tuesdays from 6-7:30 AM in room 236. Email Dennis at dbradylaw@aol.com for more information. for information and to get connected.
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
20’S WOMEN’S RETREAT “So Long Pretension, Hello Authenticity: Embracing your True Identity.” November 14 -16 at Deep Creek. Register on Sundays at the Women’s Ministry kiosk through Nov. 2 or online at bayareacc.org/womensevents. Cost: $25. Breakfasts & lunch provided. Bring money for dinner, a sleeping bag or bedding, towels & a Bible. Space is limited. Contact Lauren Bell at lab1004@live.com CHRISTMAS BRUNCH FOR SINGLE MOMS Join us for a Christmas brunch to celebrate “Beautiful You, Loved by God.” Psalm 45:11 “Let the King be enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your Lord.” Saturday, December 6, 9-11 AM. Kidcare available with advance reservation. Register on Sundays at the Women’s Ministry kiosk Nov. 16, 23, and 30 or online at bayareacc.org/womensevents. Contact janet.graves@bayareacc.org for more info.
WOMEN OF LEGACY (55+) This group of women meets to encourage each other in their walk with Jesus and to leave a lasting legacy for others. Join us at our next meeting on November 10 from 10:30-11:30 AM in The Warehouse. We will discuss the topic: “Relationships From HERE to THERE. “A disciple who is fully trained will with our Adult Children” and have lunch together afterwards. be like his teacher.” Luke 6:40. At The Well, our ministry for Contact: Cedulie Sanchez at luisandcedulie@gmail.com women, we grow from HERE to THERE in our relationship with God. No matter your starting point, God desires a closer WOMEN IN PRAYER relationship with you. Our studies for fall have begun, but we The Women’s Prayer Team meets on Wednesdays from 9:3010:30 AM to pray. Contact Cedulie Sanchez at luisandcedulie@ still have one starting the end of October you can join. gmail.com for more info. THE WELL BIBLE STUDIES
QUILTS FOR KIDS There will be no November meeting, but you may contact “Lord, Teach Me To Pray” This video series by Kay Arthur is based on the Lord’s Prayer Janet Hogan to find out about how you can help with their and uses practical lessons helpful for women to learn how to Christmas projects. We are working on 50 quilted tote bags talk to God through prayer. This is helpful for beginners and for Virginia nursing students to stuff and deliver to Children’s for those more seasoned in their prayer lives. Join us Oct. 28 - Hospital in Washington, D.C. and 50 quilts for the Walk the Dec. 9, from 7-9 PM. Cost: $15. Register at the WM table in the Walk Foundation’s annual Walk of Christmas Drive. If you lobby on October 19 & 26 or online at bayareacc.org/women/ would like a quilt kit, have a quilt you would like to donate, spiritualgrowth. Contact Darby Cate at darby@dougcate.com or have a question about this ministry, please contact Janet Hogan at annapolisqfk@gmail.com
STUDENT MINISTRY
LEADER SPOTLIGHT
SUNDAY TEACHING SERIES: ALL IN Have you ever taken a big risk? If you’ve ever gone all in there’s only one reason you did it. The payoff. Did you know that serving the people around you can be risky? Not only is there no guarantee of being successful and actually helping someone, but serving also means putting our comfort, our convenience, and our reputation on the line. On the other hand, choosing not to serve others has risks as well. Either way, there’s a lot on the line. So the question you have to ask is: Am I going to play it safe or am I going to go all in? BAPTISM PARTY On November 8 at 6-8 PM Children’s and Student Ministries are having a Baptism event. If your child or student wants to be baptized, we would love to celebrate this milestone with you. Middle and high school students go to bayareacc.org/ basmbaptism. Grade 5 and below go to bayareacc.org/childbaptism-application to sign up.
BASM HOMECOMING Current & former high school students come out Wednesday November 26, 2014 to Fuddruckers from 6:30-8:30 PM and enjoys a burger with your friends.
MIDDLE Join us for Club 678 on November 14 from 7-9 PM. We’ll be playing the Turkey Olympics so come ready to play some great games themed around this time of year. Club 678 is the second Friday of every month and is a great opportunity for students to hangout and invite friends who have never been to Bay Area before. Contact austin.maccubbin@ bayareacc.org for more info. ALIVE MIDDLE SCHOOL CONFERENCE The Middle Schoolers in Bay Area Student Ministry are heading to Ocean City November 21-23 for the annual Youth For Christ Conference “Alive.” Learn, worship, and just hangout on the boardwalk with over 3,000 other middle school students for this awesome weekend experience. Register online or at the Student Ministry Kiosk. Register by November 7 for $125. After November 7 the cost is $145. Registration closes November 9. Space is limited.
DAN RUSSO has been serving with the Student Ministry for two years now. He started with 9th grade guys and has moved up to 10th grade this year where he continues to mentor and build relationships with our students. He is serving in the Army but has a deep appreciation for the Air Force. He enjoys the great outdoors, particularly horseback riding and hiking. His favorite movies are How to Train Your Dragon and The Notebook. JIM RADCLIFF is new to our Student Ministry team this year. He has been serving with us by ministering to a group of our seventh grade guys on Sunday mornings. Jim has been an EMT in the past and now instructs others in medical training. He has a passion for cooking and is so gifted that he can even make brussel sprouts taste like popcorn - valuable information for any parent trying to get their kids to eat their vegetables. MADI DIANGELO is a new Student Assistant this year. She was very committed to attending our services when she was in middle school, but now that she is a freshman at AACS, she is committed to passing that same passion onto the middle school students she helps mentor. Madi is very active and loves the outdoors. She plays lacrosse, soccer, and rugby and has a deep passion for helping others.
High school students, join us every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 PM for our mid-week gathering where students grow deeper in their walk with God through group-based discipleship. Each Amplify gathering features free food, games, and gender/grade specific Community Groups led by trained and caring adult leaders. Students will experience true community and discipleship in the context of their peers; all in a fun environment. Contact brent.squires@bayareacc.org for more info.