The Hub Magazine Issue 12

Q&A with Ken Dick: An Inside Look at the CCC Governing Board

The Mercy Journey

by Barna Group

The Leaders family’s journey with cystic fibrosis CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH

View the CCC Calendar of Events on the last page JUNE–JULY 2019 / ISSUE 12

S U N D AY MORNING SERVICES 404 S 108 Ave, Omaha 68154 402.330.3360 | cccomaha.org info@cccomaha.org TRADITIONS 9 AM / Worship Center Timeless hymns and songs of faith led by Pastor Steve Yost and a spirited choir and orchestra ACCESS 9 AM / Gym Powerful and engaging band-led worship in a more intimate and casual environment ACCESS 10:45 AM / Worship Center Powerful and engaging band-led worship in a relaxed environment

ONLINE 9 & 10:45 AM / cccomaha.tv The 9 AM Traditions service and the 10:45 AM Access service are streamed live online every Sunday

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Publisher | CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH Editor | JONATHAN NORTON Art Director | JONATHAN NORTON Copy Editor | RACHEL BEBEE Graphic Designer | MARIE DUFOUR Contributing Writers: Jonathan Norton, Rachel Bebee, Jed Logue Contributing Photographers: Melissa Pennington Photography (cover story), Heather Ford, Austin Asay, Marie Dufour Contributing Designer: Eric Wendt THE HUB MAGAZINE 404 S 108 Ave | Omaha, NE 68154 402.330.3360 | hub@cccomaha.org cccomaha.org/hub | cccomaha.org

The Hub Magazine is published every two months

by Christ Community Church. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher.

Copyright 2019 Christ Community Church.

All rights reserved.

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Thanks for picking up The Hub Magazine, a publication that brings you stories of what God is doing in and through the ministries of Christ Community Church.

The summer always brings an exciting season of ministry at CCC. Along with mission trips and Summer U, we have a new CCC-sponsored race in our area called the Old Mill 5K. Proceeds from the race will go to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. In our cover story, you’ll meet the Leaders family who has a child with cystic fibrosis (CF). They tell their story about what it’s like living with CF and how they are trusting God every day. You can learn more about the Old Mill 5K and sign up to run at OldMill5K.com.

Additionally, in this issue we bring you an interview with one of CCC’s elders, Ken Dick, to talk about our leadership structure and the team that makes up our Governing Board of Elders.

Finally, a recent Barna study found that almost half of practicing Christians in the United States say that mercy does not influence their thoughts and actions. They also found that one in four practicing Christians say there is someone in their life whom they can’t forgive.

And on top of that, one in five Christians say that they struggle to receive forgiveness for something they have done. We take a closer look into this study.

Our prayer is that the stories in this magazine will push you into a deeper relationship with Christ and will inspire you to take the next step in your faith journey. As always, you can learn more about The Hub Magazine, read past issues, and leave us feedback at cccomaha.org/hub. §

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BY RACHEL BEBEE

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tep into their Omaha home and you’d think the Leaders’ life is like any other. Paul and Tiffany are parents to five kids, ranging from seventeen to six years old. Paul works as a police officer for the Omaha Police Department, while Tiffany is a stayat-home mom who homeschools the kids: Nathan, Caleb, Rachel, Shiloh, and Megan. Their home is warm and friendly, a place where you sense that each person in the family is happy to be with each other. Dig a little deeper and you’d discover that their life is far from ordinary.

The Leaders’ story started many years ago when Paul was working as a teacher in China. On a break from school, Paul had returned to Omaha, which is when he met Tiffany, a second-grade teacher, at Christ Community Church. After dating for a month in person, they dated long-distance for a year. During that time, he and Tiffany wrote over 100 letters to each other.

Paul and Tiffany married after he returned from working overseas. They both wanted to have a large family, and they also felt a pull to international missions. The two planned on having a few children and then moving overseas to work as missionaries. They also felt that perhaps adoption was in their family’s future. Their oldest Nathan was born, followed by Caleb a year later. Life seemed very normal. And then their daughter Rachel was born.

At birth, Rachel didn’t look healthy.

Her skin was yellow. She had trouble breathing. Rachel was very, very sick.

At four hours old, Rachel was being prepped for emergency surgery for a blockage in her intestines. The doctor’s exact words were, “She might not survive the surgery!” The surgery was very difficult and the doctor was not sure (Left to right) Caleb, Rachel, Tiffany, Megan, Paul, Nathan, and Shiloh •

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how damaged her intestines were.

If too much of the intestines were dead, Rachel would not be viable, despite the surgery. Tiffany shared there were several times where they almost lost her. When Rachel was only ten days old, Tiffany received an urgent phone call from the doctor, telling her to return to the hospital. Tears streaming down her face, she drove down Dodge Street. The doctor delivered the news: Rachel had cystic fibrosis.

Tiffany called Paul to tell him. At that moment, Paul sensed the Holy Spirit tell him that their family would not be going overseas to serve in China. The following day, Rachel experienced pulmonary heart failure and her lung collapsed.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs, but it also affects other organs including the pancreas, liver, kidneys, and intestines. A person with CF has difficulty breathing due to increased mucus production, which is thicker than the mucus of someone without the disorder. They experience frequent lung infections, as their bodies have a harder time fighting off bacteria,

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including bacteria that only affect people with cystic fibrosis. Those who have CF have a shorter lifespan than those without. And because a person with cystic fibrosis is more susceptible to illness, they must avoid people with colds and coughs, as well as others with the same disease. Even the family members of someone with CF must be careful to not shake hands with or hug people who are visibly sick—coughing, sneezing, blowing their nose.

The supplies filled their living room.

It was overwhelming. Yet on that day, the other family was burying their child. As Paul and Tiffany grieved for the other family, they also offered up this prayer: “OK Lord, whatever road you give us, we’ll take a hard road over no road.”

Though the Leaders weren’t able to move overseas because of Rachel’s disorder, they still desired to adopt.

God brought two daughters to their family, Shiloh and Megan.

Cystic fibrosis is a disease that is very socially isolating. Though there are treatments and new medicines being developed, there is currently no known cure.

Rachel spent six weeks of her first year in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). While Rachel was there, the baby of a couple who attended Paul and Tiffany’s Sunday school class was a patient in the same NICU. The two families shared their grief and prayed together. Rachel was finally released from the hospital. Paul and Tiffany brought her home, along with bags of nebulizer treatments and other supplies to keep Rachel alive.

Today, Rachel is a teenager. Life with cystic fibrosis is challenging, and Rachel’s life looks different than the life of a teen without CF. Rachel’s day is filled with different treatments to manage the disorder. Consistency in treatment is key to maintaining better health for her. When she wakes up, she starts a feeding tube, which is a tube connected to a port that goes through her belly and into her stomach. Because CF doesn’t allow the body to absorb nutrients as well as it should, Rachel used to be malnourished. The feeding tube helped Rachel gain weight when she needed it. Now, it continues to provide the additional nutrition she needs. Afterward, Rachel begins breathing treatments, which can take up to two hours a day when she is well, and up to four hours a day when she is sick. These treatments often cause her to miss out on normal life, such as playing with siblings.

Multiple times throughout the day, Rachel stops what she’s doing to take her medication. She currently has eighteen different medications that she must take every day. Preparing her medications take her and her parents about thirty minutes each week. Rachel has frequent doctor’s appointments with a variety of specialists. The medical challenges

she faces are significant, but there are also social and mental challenges that come with the disorder. Not only must she avoid people who have coughs or colds, she also must avoid others with cystic fibrosis. While it would be wonderful for her to have friendships with others who have the same disorder and experience the same struggles, the bacteria of another person who has CF could make her very sick, and her bacteria could make someone else with CF very sick.

Despite this extremely difficult illness, Paul and Tiffany have taught their kids to trust and rejoice in the Lord. Paul shared, “We’ve definitely been blessed by the Lord through all this. Even in the tough times, we still praise him.” The Leaders have had many tough times when it’s hard to be grateful and actually mean it, yet they still choose gratitude. They choose to thank God for the hard things, like the eighteen medications, because without them, Rachel wouldn’t be here. They thank the Lord for the stomach problems Rachel experiences, because it means that her body is working. Even when Rachel was hospitalized last fall for treatment for a bacteria she had— the bacteria that causes the most damage to the lungs of a person with cystic fibrosis—they chose to thank God. While those with CF are typically hospitalized two to three times per year, this hospitalization was Rachel’s first since she was an infant. This was also an opportunity to share the love of Jesus at the hospital. Paul shared that the respiratory therapists loved coming into Rachel’s hospital room because of all of the cards and all the people who were visiting. They were able to see and feel the love and presence of Jesus through how the Leaders reacted to the situation and through the visitors.

Rachel sometimes feels anxious about getting sick or not meeting

others’ expectations for her life.

When she feels that anxiety, she’s reminded of her favorite verse, Matthew 6:34, which says, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” She also has discovered encouragement and support in her small group at CCC. She shared that she can easily talk about CF with the girls in her group.

While she was hospitalized, many of the girls sent cards to her.

As the Leaders family looks toward the future, they know life is uncertain. Tiffany shared that Rachel is just one cold away from becoming really sick. Yet the family

looks to the future with hope—a hope that is placed firmly in Jesus. They trust God will use Rachel’s life to encourage others with the illness.

While new medicines are being developed for the treatment of cystic fibrosis, they know to place their trust in God, whether that’s for today or for the future. They trust that God will guide them well, because he has never let them down. § Rachel Bebee is the Project Coordinator for the Creative/Communications Team at Christ Community Church

Join CCC on June 15 for the Old Mill 5K in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Doubleamputee and Ironman triathlete Scott Rigsby will join us. To register, visit OldMill5K.com.

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YOUR GENEROSITY IS CHANGING LIVES IN OMAHA AND AROUND THE WORLD Make a one-time gift or set up recurring giving to contribute to the life-changing ministry of Christ Community Church.

give.cccomaha.org

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An Inside Look at the CCC Governing Board For nearly 100 years, Christ Community Church has been an influential voice among churches in our city. Throughout that time, God has been faithful to provide great leadership—wise men and women who seek to hear from God and discern his voice in order to make the best strategic decisions that position CCC and its people to be in the center of the mission to which God has called us. In addition to a great pastoral staff and other leaders who serve in vocational roles, CCC is blessed to have another layer of leadership called the Governing Board of Elders. Jed Logue, CCC’s Sunday Experience Pastor, had the privilege of sitting down with Governing Board member Ken Dick over a cup of coffee to learn more about who they are and what they do.

Ken is a professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and serves there as a Research Fellow in Telecommunications. Ken has a PhD in statistics, a Master’s in counseling, and a Bachelor’s in math and physics. Ken has worked in a variety of environments, from teaching public school to directing an alternative school for dropouts, to twenty years in corporate life and now twenty years at UNO. How long have you been coming to CCC? How many years have you served on the Governing Board (GB)?

We have been at Christ Community Church for thirty years. I’ve been on the Governing Board for almost twelve years, and the way that works

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is really interesting. You serve in three-year terms, and after two terms you have to take a one-year sabbatical, which I think is really healthy.

It gives you some distance and then you can come back. I’m finishing my twelfth year on the board with a year off in the middle.

What is the role and function of the Governing Board?

The GB works on the strategic direction of the church—where we want to be, long-term. All of the strategic plans that come up through Pastor Mark and through the Management Team (a staff team of executives/directors) go to the GB, and we get to interact with them. We also are involved in financial review—long-term budgets and any expenditure above a certain amount has to be approved by the GB. So, we’re sitting there as an accountability layer representing the congregation in the governance of the church. We do the annual review on Mark. We are his boss. We determine his salary and set goals and directions for him. When a creative “winds of the Spirit” idea emerges, the GB helps to ask the right questions and to discern how those ideas fit into the larger vision and direction of CCC.

I hear a theme of oversight— oversight to Pastor Mark, to the health of the church and

stewardship of our resources, and also to the overall vision.

What role does the GB play in terms of spiritual oversight?

We take spiritual oversight very seriously. From a spiritual standpoint, we are always thinking about the health of the church and what we need to do in order to help our people grow and mature in Christ. We recognize that none of us have arrived. We are all in need of continuous progress in our spiritual walk. That’s the thing I love about the elders of our church. We are all growing, and we are seeking to support and create an environment in our church that allows people to grow in their relationship with Christ.

How do you even get on GB? There is a process that involves a nominating committee made up of board members and other people in our church. Those being considered have an application to fill out that asks about theological and doctrinal beliefs, and there is also an interview that each person sits through. We are looking for people with a variety of skill-sets, but we are also looking for people who are doctrinally sound and who also have the grace to work with others. They really want mature, solid leaders in place. You’re not going to find someone on the GB who just joined the church last week. They need to have a history—a history of ministry and of being involved.

all involved. I am the elder representative on the Management Team, so I get to bridge both the GB and the Management Team. We like that so there’s not just a single point of contact between the two. Pastor Mark wants another voice, so I get to go to all the Management Team meetings.

What are some of the reasons you continue to say “yes” to serving in this capacity?

It obviously takes something of you in your schedule and commitment to consider these decisions in a prayerful way. Why do you keep doing it?

For one thing, I feel like God is calling me to it. I love the old expression that when God calls you, you’ve got to get off the couch and do it. Second, I feel like we all need to contribute to where God is calling.

I also believe I bring something to the table in terms of a perspective that might be different. My biggest goal in life is to further the Kingdom and impact the next generation. I’m • Governing Board Meeting

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members Meet CCC's Governing Board of Elders online at cccomaha.org/leadership.

a firm advocate of developing the next generation of leaders. As a church, we have great resources, and we need to use those resources not just within our walls, but we need to use them to develop people and send them out.

I feel strongly enough about it that I want to continue serving on the GB to make sure that happens.

Is there anything else you’d like us to know?

I would like to encourage everyone to interact with the GB. We need to hear from our people. That doesn’t mean we need to agree, but we need to have the grace to allow the elders to disagree. We don’t need to think the same, because that’s boring. § Jed Logue is the Sunday Experience Pastor at Christ Community Church

• Ken Dick

So these are people who love Jesus, have a depth of understanding in Scriptural and doctrinal truth, and they’ve shown themselves faithful to the CCC community?

Yes, and everyone on the GB is involved in different ministries at CCC. Some in the high school ministry, some in other ministries, but we’re

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“It was an awakening, enlightening, and transformative experience! I encountered the presence of God in ways that I never had before—in ways that changed my life!”

—Tiffany J., SoulCare 2018 Attender 12

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October 25–26

soulcareconference.com

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The Mercy Journey Map

This report is part of The Mercy Journey collection, a data-driven exploration of the topic of mercy, based on Barna research conducted in partnership with The Reimagine Group. This resource is set up to first inspire reflection and then action, moving outward from our hearts, to our homes, to our churches and, finally, to our communities.

THE MERCY JOURNEY MAP Revisiting the formative experiences and ideas that shape our understanding of mercy

HEART

HOME

Examining how mercy manifests in our daily lives and close relationships

Teaching and embodying mercy as people of faith

CHURCH

Offering mercy, compassion and

COMMUNITY

justice to the world around us

n-1,502 U.S. practicing Christian adults, April 12–May 2, 2018

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According to a recent study by Barna Group, one in four practicing Christians struggles to forgive someone.

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n Luke 15, we find the account of the parable of the prodigal son. This well-known tale describes a young son who squanders his fortune, only to return home, hungry and humbled.

When he does so, his generous father, “filled with love and compassion,” runs to him “even while he was still a long way off,” embraces him and celebrates his homecoming. This image is one of scripture’s more poignant examples of the mercy of unconditional forgiveness.

In a new Barna study, conducted in partnership with The Reimagine Group, 88 percent of U.S. practicing Christians say they are at least somewhat familiar with this story—but what about their own experiences of giving and receiving this kind of forgiveness? To what extent does an awareness or practice of mercy permeate their lives?

These are questions that shape The Mercy Journey Collection resources based on this research and set up to take churches and individuals on a data-driven exploration of mercy—from heart, to home, to church and, finally, to community.

Below, we’ll look at practicing Christians’ personal experiences with extending or accepting radical mercy.

Reports of Giving Forgiveness Exceed Reports of Receiving Forgiveness Though these statistics primarily describe respondents’ subjective reports or

perceptions of these concepts, they at least offer a glimpse of Christians’ experiences with radical forgiveness. So it’s encouraging to know that a majority of practicing Christians (76%) believes they have offered unconditional, joyful forgiveness to another person who had hurt, upset or sinned against them (or someone they love). Nearly one in six (15%) says they have never offered this level of forgiveness, and 9 percent admit they are unsure.

Reports of receiving such radical forgiveness, however, are a bit more modest. Just over half of practicing Christians (55%) remembers another person being merciful to them in this way, with another 38 percent who say this has not happened and 7 percent who don’t know. This stark disparity suggests the perceptions of giving versus receiving unconditional forgiveness may sometimes vary dramatically—meaning, while someone may feel they have extended unconditional forgiveness, the supposed recipient of that forgiveness may not feel the same way.

Further, not all Christians find themselves ready or capable of accepting forgiveness; more than one-fifth of practicing Christians (22%) reports struggling with receiving forgiveness for something they have personally done wrong.

Hang-ups in Offering Forgiveness Although most Christians recall a point at which they

gave no-strings-attached forgiveness, some express reluctance in specific cases.

Around one in four practicing Christians (23%) has a person in their life who “they just can’t forgive.”

Some traits stand out among those who say they have trouble forgiving someone. Theologically, this group is more likely to agree that people go to heaven because of good deeds (39% vs. 21% of those who can’t think of someone they struggle to forgive).

Less than half feel that, in light of their faith, mercy is something that often influences their words or actions (46% vs. 67%). Perhaps unsurprisingly, two-thirds of these Christians (66%) can also think of a circumstance in which they don’t want to forgive someone. But this group might be compelled to extend more forgiveness: Among practicing Christians who claim there is an individual in their lives they can’t forgive, more than one-quarter (28%) admits they wish they could do so.

Forgiven Much, Forgiving Much In Luke 7:47, Jesus draws a connection between those who have been greatly forgiven and those who show great love. Similarly, this study suggests that those who experience radical forgiveness have more willingness to forgive others.

Among those who say they have received forgiveness, almost nine in ten (87%) say they have given it in return (compared to 64% of those who have not received it). And regardless of their own experiences with forgiveness, a majority of practicing Christians

(81%) believes that offering undeserved mercy to someone else is an action that God blesses.

What the Research Means “Forgiveness is central to Christianity,” says Brooke Hempell, Barna’s senior vice president of research, “it’s what distinguishes it from any other religious faith. We are reconciled to God through Jesus’ sacrifice, and in response, we should be agents of reconciliation in every aspect of our lives. If Christians struggle to extend or receive forgiveness, not only do their relationships suffer, the Church’s witness is marred. § © 2019 Barna Group. [https://www.barna.com/ research/forgiveness-christians/].

Article and featured art

by Barna Group. Used by permission.

To purchase the full report, visit barna.com/mercyjourney.

About the Research This study is based on quantitative surveys of 1,007 U.S. adults, 1,502 U.S. practicing Christian adults and 600 U.S. senior pastors of Protestant churches. Among pastors, Barna oversampled to include more perspectives of black pastors (100 respondents total).

Interviews were completed online and by telephone between April and August 2018. The rate of error is +/- 2.3 percent for practicing Christians, 3.9 percent for pastors and 2.9 percent for the general population, at the 95 percent confidence level.

Practicing Christians are self-identified Christians who say their faith is very important in their lives and have attended a worship service within the past month.

About Barna Group Barna Group is a private, non-partisan, for-profit organization under the umbrella of the Issachar Companies.

Located in Ventura, California, Barna Group has been conducting and analyzing primary research to understand cultural trends related to values, beliefs, attitudes and behaviors since 1984.

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MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES GUEST INFO No matter where you come from or whatever your past, you can join us in living a life beyond belief. We hope that you will join us at Christ Community Church for one of our weekend worship services. Whoever you are, and regardless of your past, CCC is a place for you to experience life transformation.

If you're looking for more info about CCC, visit cccomaha.org/new or stop by Next Steps in the Atrium and pick up a welcome packet. A list of events, ministries, staff, and more are also available on the website.

Christ Community Church 404 S 108 Ave, Omaha, NE 68154 cccomaha.org / info@cccomaha.org 402.330.3360

KIDS MINISTRY

cccomaha.org/kids Bryant, BryantB@cccomaha.org Birth through Grade 5 / Sundays / 9 & 10:45 AM Family Is Primary Parents have the incredible responsibility of impressing a love for God on the hearts of their children (Deuteronomy 6:5–7). These impressions best occur as a natural overflow from parents seeking to love the Lord with their own hearts, souls, and strengths.

Sunday Morning Children join a group of kids their age or grade level. Kids birth through preschool may stay for two services, while students kindergarten through grade 5 attend one service only. This fosters relationships with other kids and allows them to attend worship with parents during the other hour.

American Heritage Girls Karyn, KarynStruck@gmail.com A Christian scouting organization for girls K–12th grade. Building women of integrity through service to God, family, community, and country.

Mondays / 6:30–8 PM Trail Life USA Chris, ChrisB@cccomaha.org A Christian scouting organization for boys K–12th grade. Scouting, leadership, and adventure.

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CCC Online cccomaha.tv Services streamed live online every Sunday at 9 & 10:45 AM

Baby Dedications Bryant, BryantB@cccomaha.org Baby Dedications are held quarterly.

For more info or to sign up, contact Bryant or visit cccomaha.org/baby.

KIDS CLUBS

cccomaha.org/kids Bryant, BryantB@cccomaha.org Wednesdays / 6:30–8 PM Kids will learn about God through Bible memorization, lessons, games, crafts, and activities. Kids Clubs meet September through April and are funded through annual dues.

Awana / Cubbies (Ages 3–4) Cubbies communicates basic truths about God, Jesus, salvation, and the Bible through Scripture memorization, handbook lessons, awards, games, and activities.

Awana / Sparks (Grades K–2) Sparks meet in small groups to focus on Scripture memorization. In large group, they experience upbeat music, Bible teaching and instruction, and age-appropriate games.

Boys & Girls Clubs (Grades 3–5) Kids gather in small groups where life-long friendships can begin.

A club meeting is divided into three segments: Bible teaching, ageappropriate crafts or team games, and small group time. Each Bible lesson is accompanied by a Scripture memory verse.

Guest Services Staff Contact Jessica Hawley JessicaH@cccomaha.org

STUDENT MINISTRY cccomaha.org/msm cccomaha.org/hsm

Elizabeth, ElizabethB@cccomaha.org Student Ministry exists to help students know Jesus every day and live their lives for him at home, at school, and in the community.

Large Group Gatherings Gather on Sundays for music, teaching, games, discussions, friendship, and good food in the café (year-round).

Grades 6–8 / Sunday Mornings at the Student Center / 10:45 AM Grades 9–12 / Sunday Nights at the Student Center / 6–8 PM

Important: From May 8–July 24, High School Ministry (Grades 9–12) will meet on Wednesdays from 6–8 PM instead of Sundays. At the Student Center or at a park, join us for fun summer hangouts and cool topics.

Visit cccomaha.org/hsm for details.

Student Journey Groups A sk hones t ques tions , s tud y Scripture, be invested in by a Christfollowing adult, and share life with a small group as you develop deep, lasting friendships.

August–April / Students may join a group any time during the year.

Grades 6–8 / Sundays / 6–8 PM Atrium Grades 9–12 / Sundays / 6–8 PM Student Center

MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES

Sunday Mornings / 9 & 10:45 AM / Worship Center & Gym

Support the Residents cccresidency.org/support

GUYS Group Chris, chrisraabe11@yahoo.com

To help students develop deep faith and a greater sense of community, we encourage them to serve and worship alongside Christians of different ages and backgrounds.

Each month, residents raise their own financial support. The church matches donations up to $400 per month per resident. If you would like to partner with the church in supporting a resident, give online.

GUYS stands for God Understands Your Situation. When connected, men grow as husbands, fathers, and followers of Christ. Bring dinner.

Become a Resident cccresidency.org

WOMENʼS MINISTRY

Student Serving Opportunities Opportunities to serve can be found online at cccomaha.org/hsm.

Events and Retreats Visit cccomaha.org/events to discover the life-changing events, trips, and retreats offered by Student Ministry.

COLLEGE MINISTRY

cccomaha.org/college Glenn, GlennL@cccomaha.org 8:08 is a community of college-age students (18–24) committed to loving God, each other, and the city.

Whether you’re walking with Jesus or just have questions about who God is, get connected in the 8:08 College Community.

The residency combines leadership training, ministry experience, and a graduate-level academics. For more info and to apply, visit the website.

MENʼS MINISTRY

cccomaha.org/men Reid, ReidB@cccomaha.org Increasing Kingdom impact by engaging, equipping, and encouraging men in godly manhood. Men go all-in through groups, Bible studies, and serving.

Council Bluffs Group Dave, Music65Man@gmail.com Steve, sirvin@frontiernet.net

Summer Gatherings / Tuesdays / June 4–July 30 / 7 PM / CCC Chapel

Discuss and study the Bible together over coffee.

Summer Sports / Ultimate Frisbee, Spikeball, soccer, cornhole, and more / Thursdays / 6 PM / CCC / Email Glenn for details

Tuesdays / 6–7:30 AM / Panera / 3617 Denmark Dr, Council Bluffs, IA

Instagram: 808CCC Facebook: 808CCC

CHURCH RESIDENCY cccresidency.org Emily, EmilyM@cccomaha.org Host Homes cccresidency.org/hosthome We have the exciting opportunity to train up and send out leaders through our residency program. One aspect of this is providing a healthy, positive place for a resident to live through our Host Home program. Apply to be a host at the link above.

Journey Men Greg, GDVanderVorst@yahoo.com Helping men connect with other men through discussion-based learning and teaching. Begin the journey at any time.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / E240 Men of God Jim, JimR@cccomaha.org, 402.290.1608 An ongoing study group for those who desire to learn, love, live, and lead as men of God. The topic changes, but not the authentic relationships that will grow from the experiences shared in large and small group formats. Led by pastors Mark Ashton and Jim Ratte.

Fridays / 6:15–7:30 AM / Student Center

Sundays / 6–7:45 PM / C116

cccomaha.org/women

Mykaila, MykailaN@cccomaha.org Women's Ministry offers groups, studies, and events to help women develop their relationship with Jesus and others.

Thrive Summer Series cccomaha.org/women Mykaila, MykailaN@cccomaha.org Join us this summer to explore the Thrive 2019 breakout sessions. Each week will cover a different topic. The series is designed for women age 16 and older to gather in community and be encouraged. For a full schedule, visit the website.

June 13 & 20 and July 11, 18, & 25 / 7 PM / CCC Student Center / $10 / Register at cccomaha.org/women Women's Worship Night Don’t miss this opportunity for all generations to come and worship together!

Friday, July 26 / 7 PM / CCC Gym Point of Hope cccomaha.org/poh Emily, CCCPointOfHope@gmail.com A positive environment for single moms to grow alongside each other.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) cccomaha.org/mops ChristCommunityMOPS@gmail.com Connect with a community of women to embrace and encourage one another in the journey of motherhood.

MOPS is for moms of kids ages birth through kindergarten.

Register at cccomaha.org/mops

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MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Beth Siemens, bdsiemens@hotmail.com

Do you knit or crochet? The Prayer Shawl Ministry creates shawls and prays for the needs of others. Those new to knitting or crocheting are welcome!

Thursdays / 1–2:30 PM / Prayer Room Womenʼs Prayer Meeting Alice Norris, aenorris@cox.net Join a group of women for prayer focusing on CCC missionaries, each other, our church, and our city.

Mondays / 10:30 AM / I-188

YOUNG ADULTS

Alex, AlexE@cccomaha.org A network of small to mid-sized groups comprised of people in their twenties and thirties, both single and married.

DEAF MINISTRY

cccomaha.org/deaf-ministry CCCDeafMinistry@gmail.com Deaf Ministry exists to help Deaf people understand Jesus so they can accept him as Savior and grow in relationship with him.

Interpreted Service / 10:45 AM / Worship Center / Front of Section 104 Deaf Class / 9 AM / C116 Deaf Men’s Bible Study / Wednesdays / 6:30–8:30 PM / The Porch Deaf Women’s Bible Study / Thursdays / 6:30–8:30 PM / The Porch Do you need an interpreter or are you interested in learning ASL? Contact Jan / janohls@cox.net

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS International Friendship Group Mark, MarkCarlson51@gmail.com Building community and discovering Jesus with friends from around the world. This international-focused group includes prayer, Bible discussion, and sharing life.

Sundays / 10:45 AM / D226 English Conversation Class CCC.ConversationClass@gmail.com Reaching the international community at UNMC & UNO. Looking for teachers for conversational lessons with one–three students. Classes run September–April.

Wednesdays / 6:30–8 PM / Student Center

JOURNEY GROUPS

cccomaha.org/journeygroups Meet regularly to study, pray, and grow with others. Belong to a community, be transformed by the gospel, and be on mission for the people in the city.

HOW DO I JOIN A JOURNEY GROUP? Groups are available on Sunday morning during services or in neighborhoods throughout the week.

Visit the Next Steps booth Meet staff and volunteers who will help you find Journey Groups in your neighborhood.

Sundays / After the 9 & 10:45 AM services at the Next Steps booth in the Atrium Visit the online Journey Group Locator Search for groups that meet in your area based on the type of group and meeting day and time online at cccomaha.org/journeygroups.

MARRIAGE

cccomaha.org/events Sue, SueB@cccomaha.org Marriage Matters Planning on engagement or marriage in the next year? Learn how to have a healthy marriage. Marriage Matters is a six-week class offered throughout the year.

WHY JOIN A JOURNEY GROUP? Develop friendships with others The smaller group of people gives you the opportunity to form genuine friendships and care for others in times of need.

Wedding Date 2020 Jan–May 2020 June–Aug 2020 Sept–Nov

Grow in your relationship with God The smaller setting allows you to dig deeper into Scripture and ask questions in a discussion-based format.

Interact with and learn from others.

cccomaha.org/boomers-seniors

Make an impact for the Kingdom Make a difference by serving together in the city or participating in CCC’s partnerships around the world.

Class Date 2019 Sept–Oct 2020 Feb–March 2020 May–June

BOOMERS & BEYOND Paul Gedden, 402.938.1574, PaulG@cccomaha.org SUNDAY MORNINGS Dayspring / 7:45 AM / C117 Cross-generational class with challenging teaching, ministry projects, missionary support, and care groups.

Kingdom Builders / 9 AM / C220 Boomers and up join for prayer, fellowship, biblical teaching, and learning the Word together.

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MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES

Scripture: Living It Out / 9 AM / I-188 Cross-generational group focusing on Bible study, friendship, life application, and growing in relationship with Jesus. (Formerly Thankful Hearts) Ambassadors / 10:30 AM / D127 Caring and praying seniors focus on strong biblical teaching with love for Christ, missionaries, and our nation.

Ecclesia / 10:30 AM / D126 Seniors begin with worship and refreshments, then study Scripture and have time for discussion.

Spiritually Advancing, Linked Together (SALT) / 10:30 AM / C117 Boomers and seniors are welcome for fellowship, prayer, study of God’s Word, and class socials.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES Sue Beed, 402.938.1570, SueB@cccomaha.org Senior Lunch & Fellowship at CCC First Tuesday of the month 11:30 AM / $6 Seniors Breakfast Second Tuesday of the month 8:30 AM / Village Inn, 138th & Maple Super Adults at CCC Third Tuesday of the month 9:30 AM / $6 / Coffee over fellowship, a program featuring a guest speaker, and a delicious meal.

Monthly Senior Server Newsletter cccomaha.org/seniorserver Features entries, events, stories, and more. To get a copy, pick it up at the Boomers & Beyond desk, visit the website, or contact Sue Beed.

Stamps Ministry Fridays / 8–11 AM / D127 / Come join in the work and fellowship.

SHORT-TERM MISSIONS

cccomaha.org/stm Eva, EvaB@cccomaha.org A catalyst for long-term change and an informed global perspective, short-term mission trips utilize the skills and interests of those willing to be used by God. Teams receive pretrip training on topics from raising support to cultural differences.

Interested in going on a short-term missions trip? Read about upcoming trips and submit an application at the link above. You can also support current short-term teams by giving online on the same web page.

CARE NETWORK cccomaha.org/care

Everyone has defining moments in life—difficult circumstances, relational pain, transitional seasons. How we respond during these has a direct impact on our futures and the futures of those around us.

The Care Network is a multi-disciplinary team of caregivers who are passionate about providing an environment and relationships to help people heal and grow. Developed by pastors, trained counselors, and professional licensed counselors, the Care Network is committed to helping people find healing and wholeness amidst the challenges of life.

Professional Counseling citycarecounseling.org CityCare Counseling, 402.916.9421, info@citycarecounseling.org CityCare Counseling exists to provide effective professional counseling for those who are seeking excellent care with a distinctly Christian perspective.

Pastoral Counseling Sue Beed, 402.938.1570, SueB@cccomaha.org Services provided by pastoral staff and pastoral counselors trained to provide biblical advice or spiritual counsel to those in need. Financial counseling is also available.

Healing Prayer Sue Beed, 402.938.1570, SueB@cccomaha.org Immanuel Prayer is practical training in deepening your intimacy with God so relational barriers and painful life experiences can be resolved.

Formational Prayer creates an environment where people find relief from emotional pain through a personal encounter with God. Caring Partners Doni Gregory, 402.938.1512, DoniG@cccomaha.org Serves those in need of temporary assistance by distributing designated funds as an expression of God’s love. The Oil Change Ministry and on-site food pantry are also part of Caring Partners.

Silver Tsunami Ministry Paul Gedden, 402.938.1574, PaulG@cccomaha.org Ministry to the elderly, the infirm, those with dementia, the sick, and the dying. Prepares people for relationship-building through weekly visits, caring, listening, and sharing the gospel. Training every fall.

Stephen Ministers Paul Gedden, 402.938.1574, PaulG@cccomaha.org People trained to provide confidential, one-on-one care to those experiencing difficulty in life such as divorce, job loss, aging, spiritual crisis, chronic or terminal illness, relocation, or separation due to military deployment.

THE HUB MAGAZINE / CCCOMAHA.ORG

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MINISTRIES, GROUPS, CLASSES & SERVICES SPIRITUAL FORMATION

cccomaha.org/formation Wendell Nelson, 402.938.1573, WendellN@cccomaha.org The ongoing transformation of your life through experiential discovery.

Selah Groups Monthly exposure to various spiritual practices such as solitude and silence, formational approaches to the Word, and group spiritual direction in a contemplative prayer group for women that facilitates connection with God. Spiritual Direction A monthly one-on-one meeting to help you notice and savor God’s presence in your life and stimulate ongoing growth; nurturing choices that consistently delight God.

RENEWAL GROUPS

cccomaha.org/renewal Wendell Nelson, 402.938.1573, WendellN@cccomaha.org Experience renewal in your life by connecting with trained volunteers, professional counselors, and others experiencing similar circumstances. All groups meet at Christ Community Church.

CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY

Suicide Attempt Group Kaycee, 573.301.2234, FriendsOfSuicideLoss@outlook.com

Helps men address lust in a safe, supportive, grace-filled environment that promotes honesty with self, others, and God. New arrivals welcome.

This is a group for those who have attempted suicide. Sharing openly with others who have similar experiences can help with the healing process.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / S302 in the Student Center

Second to last Thursday of the month / 6:30 PM / D226

RELATIONSHIPS

RESTORED HEARTS Gloria, 402.968.0395, RestoredHeartsOmaha@gmail.com

DivorceCare Mary Lou, MaryLRodgers@yahoo.com A friendly, caring group of people who will walk with you through one of life’s most difficult challenges.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / C117 Hannah's Prayer Diane, dewswim@aol.com A community of married women experiencing primary or secondary infertility who provide support and encouragement.

By appointment only Relationships 101 for Men Marc, MarcM@cccomaha.org Learn how to build and maintain healthy, life-giving relationships.

Thursdays / 7 PM GriefShare Deb Jones, 402.658.0767, AsAlwaysDebJones@gmail.com

Addictions Wendell, WendellN@cccomaha.org

A support group to foster the journey from mourning to joy amid the chaos of the loss of a loved one.

Biblically-based curriculum in a non-judgmental environment.

Tuesdays beginning May 7 6:30 PM / I-188

Tuesdays / 7 PM / E132

Friends of Suicide Loss Julie, 204.657.2146 Kaycee, 573.301.2234 FriendsOfSuicideLoss@outlook.com

SEXUAL IDENTITY AND BROKENNESS Hope After Betrayal Nancy Hanson, 308.631.1200, JBonanny@hotmail.com When the dream of the ideal relationship, marriage, or family has been shattered, hope is needed to restore and become whole again.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / G262

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Men of Integrity findintegrity.com Wendell, WendellN@cccomaha.org

JUNE–JULY 2019 / ISSUE 12

A group for those recovering from losing a friend or family member to suicide. Sharing openly with others who have experienced a similar loss can help with the healing process.

Last Thursday of the month 6:30–8 PM / C220 & D226

This ministry comes along side women with a history of sexual abuse, assisting them in their healing journey. This support is provided through opportunities, in a safe environment, for engagement with God and each other in finding hope and the ability to move into a more meaningful life.

PHYSICAL WHOLENESS Fresh Hope Wendell, WendellN@cccomaha.org A safe setting for people with mood disorders, or their family members, who desire to incorporate faith into the recovery process.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / D127 NAMI Support Group MJ Zaremba, 402.980.1532, mjpotandladle@gmail.com Helps families understand and support individuals with mental illness.

First & third Tuesdays of the month / 7 PM / E148 The Christian in Complete Armor Marc, MarcM@cccomaha.org Men, do you feel like you’re in a battle at home, at work, and in life? If so, you’re invited to explore practical ways to achieve total victory in those areas and experience a new way of looking at what it means to be a Christian in Complete Armor.

Tuesdays / 7 PM / F252 & 254

SUMMER SERIES

This summer, CCC wants to love our neighbors well! Invite your family or Journey Group to serve in Village One and the Omaha area. For more info and to sign up, email Eva Brandt at EvaB@cccomaha.org or visit cccomaha.org/summerserve.

June 15 / 4–7 PM / Abide: Set-up and teardown, cooking and grilling, serving, and leading games and activities for neighborhood grill outs June 22 / 9 AM–12 PM / Mission Church: Paint Mission Church July 1–3 / 8 AM–4:30 PM / Abide: Help with Abide's VBS

July 9 / 5:30–8:30 PM / Mission Church: Set-up and tear-down, serving, and leading games and activities at the Cultural Food Fair July 29–August 2 / Time TBD / Mission Church: Serving dinner and leading kids in games, art, sports, and Bible stories at VBS August 6 / 5:30–8:30 PM / Mission Church: Cooking and grilling, leading games and activities, and serving food at “Safe Night Out”

THE HUB MAGAZINE / CCCOMAHA.ORG

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CCC CALENDAR | SUMMER 2019 Visit cccomaha.org/events for additional information, to register for an event, or to purchase tickets. **Old Mill 5K with Scott Rigsby / June 15 / 8 AM / Big Papio Trail / All proceeds go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation / For more info and to register, visit OldMill5K.com Father's Day with Special Guest Scott Rigsby / June 16 / 9 & 10:45 AM / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/events **Middle School Summer Mission Trip / June 16–22 / Chicago / Registration is closed **High School Ministry Senior Trip / June 17–19 / Minnesota / Registration closes June 12 / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/events **Summer U / June 24–28 / 9 AM–12 PM / $30 per child / A week of fun summer activities for kids four years old through 5th grade. Limited space! For more info and to register, visit SummerU.org **7th Grade Omaha Mission Experience / June 28–30 / Registration is closed CELEBRATE AMERICA! Independence Day Concert / June 30 / 7 & 8:30 PM / Free admission / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/events **LIFE Conference (High School) / July 9–15 / Orlando / Registration is closed **Middle School Sunday Fun Day / July 21 / $5 / For info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/msm **High School Ministry Freshman Frenzy / July 26–27 / Registration closes July 21 / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/events Women's Worship Night / July 26 / 7 PM / Gym *Burgers & Bingo / July 31 / 6–8 PM / Free event but registration is required / For students entering 6th grade this fall and their parents / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/events *Baptism on the Green / August 4 / 10 AM / Werner Park / No 9 & 10:45 AM services that day / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/events. If you'd like to get baptized, sign up at cccomaha.org/baptism.

Fall Kickoff: Promotion Sunday / August 18 / Promotion weekend for birth through middle school **Fall Kickoff: Middle School and High School / August 18 / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/events, or bring your form and money to the event itself *Fall Kickoff: Adult Journey Group Launch / August 18 / For more info and to sign up for a Journey Group, visit cccomaha.org/journeygroups *Baby Dedications / August 25 / Required pre-dedication class on August 11 / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/baby 8:08 College Community Fall Welcome Week / August 25–29 / For more info, visit cccomaha.org/808 **Kids Clubs Begins / September 4 / Registration is open July 28–August 25 / For more info and to register, visit cccomaha.org/kids *Free event but registration is required

**Paid/ticketed event and registration is required

AUGUST 4 / 10 AM / WERNER PARK IN PAPILLION Join us for Sunday morning service at Werner Park on August 4. We'll be celebrating those in our community who've decided to take a step of faith and get baptized! This will be a family-friendly event with live music, games, food for purchase, and a great opportunity for community with our CCC family and other Omaha-area churches. Bring your family and friends!

If you'd like to get baptized, read more and sign up online at cccomaha.org/baptism.