F E B R U A R Y GO&MAKE 1
IN THIS ISSUE
14 COVER STORY: WE GO Preview Bay Area’s 2020 SOULS: World Missions Conference as well as all of the incredible opportunities to go on mission this year from here to the nations.
18 TWO GUYS WALK INTO A BAR Read how a series of incredibly God-driven events led Trevin and Sameer to start a lifechanging conversation which ultimately culminated in Sameer placing his faith in Christ.
10 LEADERSHIP PROFILE: KYLE SPONAUGLE Meet Bay Area’s newest elder Kyle Sponaugle and read about his ministry both at Bay Area and the United States Naval Academy as codirector of Cru.
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20 JACK FRENCH’S STORY: FROM GHANA, TO BELIZE, TO ODENTON Learn about the faith-growing impact that going on missions trips and serving on the Odenton tech team has had on 16-year-old Jack French.
12 MISSIONS UPDATE: INDIA Read an update from Bay Area’s global partners in India and learn about their work with International Cultural Bible Ministries (ICBM) to reach the second most populous country in the world.
We appreciate your comments and questions. Please email us at feedback@bayareacc.org and a staff member or elder will respond within 48 hours.
MAGAZINE CREDITS EDITOR Meredith Thompson ASSISTANT EDITOR Victoria Cline ART DIRECTOR Josh Shirlen ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Arianne Teeple LEAD DESIGNER Jake Williams DESIGNER Josh (Burgi) Burgin Callie Johnson CONTRIBUTORS Allen Smith Brent Squires Leanne Lane Michele Rollins Trevin Hoekzema
On the cover: Artwork by Josh (Burgi) Burgin
ELDERS Barry Willhite Bill Plenge Bill Smith Chris Heacock Don Wiley Greg St. Cyr John Taylor Keith Riniker Ken Gilmore Kyle Sponaugle Merrill Hoekstra Peter Godfrey Rich Heath Tim Grossman Tom Hogan Warwick Fairfax
BAY AREA LEADERSHIP Allen Smith, Missional Communities Pastor – allen.smith@bayareacc.org Brent Squires, Student Ministry Pastor – brent.squires@bayareacc.org Brian Hopper, Annapolis Campus Pastor – brian.hopper@bayareacc.org Greg St. Cyr, Lead Pastor – greg.stcyr@bayareacc.org Jason Barthelemy, Odenton Campus Pastor – jason.barthelemy@bayareacc.org Jeff Supp, Executive Pastor of Operations – jeff.supp@bayareacc.org Jerry Shirlen, Financial Administrator – jerry.shirlen@bayareacc.org Jocelyn Sacks, Serving Director – jocelyn.sacks@bayareacc.org Jonathan Madrid, Worship Leader – jonathan.madrid@bayareacc.org Josh Shirlen, Creative Director – josh.shirlen@bayareacc.org Kristin Collins, Annapolis Children’s Ministry Director – kristin.collins@bayareacc.org Leanne Lane, Care Network Director – leanne.lane@bayareacc.org Meredith Thompson, Communications Director – meredith.thompson@bayareacc.org Michele Rollins, Short Term Missions Director – michele.rollins@bayareacc.org Pat Linnell, Teaching Pastor – pat.linnell@bayareacc.org
For a comprehensive list of all Bay Area staff, elders and deacons, please visit bayareacc.org/ourteam.
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LETTER FROM THE LEAD
Highlight Moments
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very now and then an event in life happens when you realize, “This is a highlight moment!” A few examples include high school graduation, the birth of your first child, or a change in career. For Bay Area, these events include moving into our facility in 2006, planting Downtown Hope in 2010, sending over 100 people on global mission trips in 2015, and many more. Last month was another incredible highlight moment that I want to share with you. Here’s the back story: In 2002, Bay Area’s Barry Spofford reluctantly yet obediently traveled to India on a mission trip. In a way, by nothing short of a miracle, Barry met Pastor Samuel Devraj. Samuel had a vision and burden to bring the gospel to the unreached people groups of India (There are 6,700 unreached people groups in the world, of which 2,500 are in India!). For over a year, Barry and Samuel prayed for God’s guidance before launching what would become International Cultural Bible Ministries (ICBM). In 2010, Bay Area formally adopted ICBM as a global partner, and the ministry accelerated through our financial support and mission teams. Today, over 250 churches have been planted by more than 70 ICBM pastors who have reached thousands for Christ. And, most significantly, 37 tribal peoples who had never heard the name of Jesus now have churches!
In 2016, God brought Pastor Samuel’s son, Joseph, and his wife, Esther, to Bay Area. For two years, Joseph was equipped through our residency program led by Annapolis Campus Pastor Brian Hopper. In January of 2019, Joseph and his family returned to India to further prepare for assuming ICBM leadership. Last month, on January 14, Joseph was commissioned as the new director of International Cultural Bible Ministries in India! By God’s grace, Joseph will be used for many years to come to build upon his father’s work and lead ICBM to reach hundreds more unreached people groups in India. The impact of the moment wasn’t lost on me. It is the fruit of so many things: our growing heart for the nations, the financial generosity of our church family, the hundreds who have gone on mission teams, our residency program, a willingness to sacrifice to see disciples made around the world, and most importantly, the faithfulness of God. This is the kind of church Jesus is building among us – a church committed to making passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations – a church in which every one lives like a missionary. Though only five of us traveled to India to celebrate Samuel and Grace’s ministry and Joseph’s installation, it’s a highlight moment for all of us who call Bay Area home!
From here to the nations,
Greg St. Cyr Lead Pastor
Greg St. Cyr is the lead pastor at Bay Area Community Church and a monthly contributor to GO&MAKE.
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WHERE ARE YOU FROM? By Allen Smith
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ne of the hardest questions you can ask a missionary kid is, “Where are you from?” Our four daughters grew up in Peru, South America. After moving back to the States, we have lived in Arkansas, Atlanta, Miami and now Annapolis. Most of my daughters’ lives have been rootless. As we re-entered our “passport country,” we spent a week in the beautiful Colorado mountains debriefing with other cross-cultural missionaries from around the world. It was a slice of heaven! Not only did they feed us well, but they also helped us process as a family what we were experiencing - our sense of rootlessness and confusion. Sandi and I didn’t fully understand that we were reentering the States differently than our daughters. Our counselor explained it this way: “Allen, when you and Sandi left the States, you were both squares. Then when you lived in Peru, it changed you - you became triangles. Now that you’re back in the States again, you have changed again and are now circles.” Then he said, “You have three problems re-entering the States. First, your American family and friends still see you as a square. Second, you still see yourself as a triangle - as a missionary living in Peru, but moving back indefinitely to the States has transformed you into a circle.”
As we flew away from the debriefing center, someone sitting next to our daughter Mary Allen asked, “Where are you from?” I loved her answer: “We don’t live anywhere, we just travel.” In a sense, this is true for all Christians - we are all just traveling through life. We are all missionaries, living temporarily in the place where God has sent us. Like many missionary kids, we have dual citizenship: first in Jesus’ kingdom and second in the United States (or in whatever country you find citizenship). What happens in our hearts if we believe that this world is our true home? We make unhealthy attachments with people and things. We take fewer risks for fear of losing what we have. And we place unrealistic expectations on other people, on our vacations and on our jobs that never deliver. Disappointment and frustration surround anyone who clings too tightly to this world.
We are all missionaries, living temporarily in the place where God has sent us.
As my head was spinning, trying to keep up with all the shapes, then he said, “Your third problem is that your daughters have never been a square, triangle or circle. They are on a completely different track - they are stars! They are special because they can fit in anywhere but feel like they belong nowhere. They don’t feel the same way about America as you do, Allen, and they were always seen as foreigners in Peru.” As I sat back to take it all in, it occurred to me that this cross-cultural missionary life has given us an eternal gift: a pointed experience that this world is not our true home. It’s an experience filled with both grief and hope - grief for having to say goodbye over and over and hope knowing that the best is yet to come. Our real citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). That’s why we feel like strangers and exiles on earth because we were made and saved for another country, our true forever home (Hebrews 11:13-14).
So if someone asked you where you are from, what would you say? More importantly, what do your actions and attitudes say? Missionaries need Jesus just as much as the people they attempt to reach. And the good news is that Jesus left His home in heaven and was exiled on the cross because we have clung too tightly to this world. Every time we loosen our grip on this world and believe again in the gospel, we return to our Father’s house, our true home in Jesus.
When we finally return home, we might say along with Jewel, the horse in “The Last Battle” by C. S. Lewis: “I have come home at last! This is my real country! I belong here. This is the land I have been looking for all my life, though I never knew it til now. . . . Come further up, come further in!” We were made and saved for another country.
Allen Smith is the Missional Community Pastor at Bay Area Community Church.
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By Brent Squires
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his month, BASM (Bay Area Student Ministry for those who have always wondered what that stands for) is starting a new teaching series called “Elephant in the Room.” The title comes from the idea that there is an obvious problem, challenge or concern that no one wants to discuss. Rather than face it, we ignore the “elephant” and pretend it isn’t there. We hope it just goes away. It rarely does. Sometimes we never notice it, sometimes it takes a while to notice it, and other times the elephant smacks us in the head with its trunk just to let us know it’s still present. Regardless, there are often elephants in our rooms – middle and high school students included. In our February BASM teaching series, we will discuss elephant-in-the-room-type topics such as divorce, pitfalls of social media, substance abuse and suicide. For folks with the mindset that our BASM gatherings are “not challenging enough for my kid,” I think we can all agree that these subjects could be
topics on Sunday mornings during our gatherings. Then we encourage students to return on Wednesday nights where they divide into grade- and genderspecific small groups for application. Teach, discuss, apply. Teach, discuss, apply. And we do this all within the context of relationships – relationships that center around God’s Word. Of course, not every student can attend both Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights – but about 70 percent do. Adults, if you have a middle or high school student (or know of one in your neighborhood), get them to BASM Sundays and Wednesday nights. If you think they won’t come, just tell them that we’re talking about divorce, suicide, social media and substance abuse. And sex, especially tell them that we’re discussing sex - that’s where the capital “C” church has been the least helpful. BASM wants to reverse that. Do whatever you have to short of kidnapping them in order to get them sitting among their peers, hearing God’s Word, and discussing how to apply it to their own lives. Do whatever you can not to allow lesser things to keep these students from being part of what God is doing in our gatherings. When I say “lesser things,” I’m talking about sports, drama club, trumpet lessons, club soccer and karate lessons. These things have their place, and they aren’t bad. All three of my children participated in sports and activities during their high school years and occasionally had to prioritize those activities over attending church. So, I get it. However, these activities are lesser things when compared to a student growing in his/her knowledge of Jesus, cultivating a heart for God’s Word, and learning to live in the context of godly relationships. Be wise, and encourage your student to invest heavily in the only thing that will last for all eternity – his/her soul.
“ Let’s teach, discuss, apply, and acknowledge the elephants in the room facing students every day.” challenging for anyone regardless of age. Obviously, these aren’t easy subjects. These topics could even be considered “mature” content. Either way, they are subjects that the church (the one with a capital “C”) rarely discusses. It also rarely discusses sex, but we’ll cover that subject in March. Within BASM, these are subjects that our students are wrestling with. We know because we’ve asked them. They’re either wrestling with them firsthand or they have a friend who is facing one or more of these issues. We want to be the type of ministry that doesn’t shy away from the tough subjects our students are facing. And we are confident that the Bible is more than adequate in addressing any subject our students are confronted with. If you’re a parent with middle and/or high school students, your child is probably wrestling with them as well. And we want to partner with you as we collectively point him/her toward God’s Word for direction. We’re sure both our February and March series are going to be powerful and will lead to many great conversations between students and their adult small group leaders. That’s how we do things at BASM – we use the Bible to teach on a variety of student-specific
Jesus’ words command us, “Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14 NASB). Let’s partner together, the church and family, to point all students toward Jesus. Let’s teach, discuss, apply, and acknowledge the elephants in the room facing students every day. For questions and comments, feel free to contact me directly.
Brent Squires is the Student Ministry Pastor at Bay Area Community Church.
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LEADERSHIP
PROFILE:
KYLE SPONAUGLE By Victoria Cline
yle Sponaugle became Bay Area’s newest elder in the fall of last year, but his passion for serving others didn’t just begin and his ministry reaches far beyond the Bay Area family. Kyle grew up in Shady Spring, West Virginia – not too far from Bluefield, West Virginia where Bay Area goes on mission each year. Kyle recalled that though he grew up in a church, the gospel was not preached, and he did not have a personal relationship with Jesus. He went on to attend West Virginia University where he majored in petroleum and natural gas engineering. It was during his sophomore year at WVU that he was searching for direction and purpose and decided to get involved with Cru, a gospel-centered campus ministry. While attending a weekend retreat with Cru in 1998, Kyle observed the purpose, passion and joy the people on the retreat exuded. He didn’t know why the others around him had those traits, but he knew that he wanted to understand and experience whatever it was for himself. Shortly after the retreat, one of the Cru leaders stopped by Kyle’s dorm. “It was the first time I had heard that Christ died for my sins and that His death had a purpose for me,” Kyle explained, noting it was the first time someone shared the gospel with him. “After that, I shared my faith in the dorms every week through Cru.”
In his senior year, Kyle decided to join Cru staff and in 2001, after graduation was sent to George Mason University for several years to help students grow in their faith and share the gospel with others. While there, he met his wife Jen who was also involved with Cru, and they were married in 2006. Then, the couple spent two years at the University of Virginia working for Cru before being sent to the United States Naval Academy in 2008 to co-direct Cru on the yard. Kyle described he and his wife’s work with Cru as “a college ministry about evangelism, discipleship and training laborers for the Great Commission – a mixture between youth group, church and crazy college kids.” The Sponaugles lead about 170 Midshipmen in Bible studies each week and even take the Mids on mission trips around the globe. And being sent to the Naval Academy is what brought the Sponaugle family to Bay Area. After exploring a few churches and finding out that Bay Area’s Lead Pastor, Greg St. Cyr, had worked with Cru as well, they decided to call Bay Area their church home. Kyle always made it a priority to find a place to serve in a church wherever he was sent, so it was natural for him and his wife to begin serving at Bay Area. The two have served in Children’s Ministry and led a Missional Community for about six years. Last year, Kyle was a mentor for Bay Area School of Biblical Leadership
(BASBL), and now his wife serves as an Ambassador on Sunday mornings. When Kyle was first asked to consider becoming an elder, he was unsure, but after speaking with Greg and others, God confirmed that this was the right role for his gifts and a good fit for both him and Bay Area. Kyle has now been serving as an elder for almost five months and is still learning about the role. What he most enjoys is conducting Ministry Partner interviews, which allows him to hear their stories, answer questions and help connect people with serving. When asked what Kyle hopes his impact will be, he responded, “I hope to encourage and empower people to follow Jesus with all their heart by training and equipping them and seeing the best in them that they may not see themselves.” In his free time, Kyle enjoys running and spending time with Jen and their two children, Reagan (age 9) and Mason (age 7). Since college, he has been guided in his leadership by 2 Timothy 2:2 which reads, “The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” What Kyle finds so central to this verse is the concept of discipleship, and he hopes to continue that work in his new role as an elder.
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From Here To India:
The First Year By Esther
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t’s hard to believe it’s been an entire year since we sold our cars and furniture, packed up all of our remaining worldly possessions in suitcases, said our goodbyes to family and friends, and flew halfway around the world with our four little ones in tow – to incredible India. But it has been a whole year, and a great one at that. At the beginning of 2019, the Lord gave us Psalm 23 to hold onto amidst all of the upheaval, and especially verse 1, which reads, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.” It’s a verse that I’ve known since childhood but it offers fresh comfort and hope in any season of change. What a blessing it is to look back on our first year here and be able to confirm again that He IS our good Shepherd who meets our every need and is ever-present, in moments of joy or pain.
Early in the year, the Lord provided an amazing home for us in a wonderful neighborhood just five minute’s drive from the International Cultural Bible Ministries (ICBM) headquarters. After settling in a bit and beginning to figure out how to do daily life, my husband Joseph began traveling with his dad, Samuel, to tour the ministry of ICBM, which spans seven regions, and meet the regional directors and pastors employed in the ministry. Rather than stepping directly into active leadership in ICBM, Joseph took the position of a learner and observer for the first year. We often get the question, “Are you adjusted to life here?” Our answer is always, “Yes and no.” We’ve all heard the expression, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” In many ways we have changed the way we do things and have adjusted to local ways and norms. We drive on the left side of the road (and honk profusely), eat with our hands, bobble our heads to say “Yes,” boil our milk before drinking it, and communicate in three different languages on a daily basis. But there are times when the social norms we encounter stand in contradiction to the Scripture and our personal convictions. That’s where we have to draw the line. We live in a predominantly Hindu neighborhood, and during one festival, there was a six-foot-tall idol set up in a tent about five yards from our front door. For 10 days, neighbors gathered daily to participate in singing, reciting mantras, and presenting offerings to the idol. It was difficult for our kids to understand what was going on and why we weren’t joining in. Amidst the weight of spiritual darkness we felt from this blatant worship of an idol made by human hands, we had the opportunity to train up our children in the knowledge
of the One true God who made the world and every creature in it, who alone is worthy to be worshiped. And how are the kids doing? They are all getting on splendidly, and only Mazzy, our oldest at age 5, even remembers life in the States. We’ve been happily homeschooling our two oldest for six months now, and the structure this has given to our days and weeks has been a huge stabilizing factor for our whole family. They’ve made some wonderful friends in the neighborhood, love living close to Joseph’s parents, are catching every new critter that comes across their paths, and are picking up Telugu and even some Hindi. In January, we celebrated the installment of Joseph as director of ICBM. We are humbled and honored that the Lord has brought us this far and has chosen Joseph for this role. Our hearts and the vision of ICBM are for reaching the unreached people groups of India with the gospel of Jesus Christ, and Joseph is eager to get his hands dirty in this pursuit. Simultaneously, we are reminded of Pastor Greg’s wise words, “Life’s highest priority is cultivating a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus.” Along this vein, our family’s Bible verse for 2020 is Ephesians 1:17, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” This year, as we begin the work for which we came, more than anything, we are hoping to know the Lord Jesus better and grow closer to Him. Esther and her family are Bay Area’s global missions partners in India. Their last name has been withheld for security purposes.
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By Michele Rollins
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ho or what do you follow? Ask nine people and you might get ten different answers: sports teams, fashion trends, politics, social media accounts, music genres or the news. Ultimately, if you have trusted in Jesus and His life, death and resurrection, what you have chosen to do is follow Jesus. That’s what we’re all about as a church: making passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations. When I have the opportunity to teach about who we are as a church to newcomers at First Step, I like to follow that question with another one: how could I tell that you are a follower? If you follow a sports team, it might be easy for me to tell - you wear a jersey, go to games, watch them on TV, spout off the latest stats, or are particularly sad about the end of the Ravens’ playoff run this year (sorry… too soon?). Or maybe you’re a music aficionado - you go to concerts, stay up on the latest album releases, and might even have a record player in your living room. In short, the things or people that you follow are apparent to others in the way you spend your time, money and energy and by what you talk about. If that is true, how can someone tell that you are a follower of Jesus? There are many possible answers - in the way that you respond to stressful situations with peace and grace, in your calendar on Saturday nights or Sunday mornings as you worship and serve at church, in your bank account as you give toward
Kingdom work. One way that we are identified as Jesus-followers is in the way that we go - seeking and serving people who don’t know Jesus yet. Jesus captures it succinctly in Matthew’s gospel when He invites Peter and Andrew to “follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (4:19). Following Jesus is inextricably linked to being on mission with Him, but if you’re like me, it’s easy to get comfortable in your bubble of Christian friends and the regular rhythm of everyday life and forget that there are people all around the world who don’t know Him. That’s what the SOULS: World Missions Conference is all about. We want to inspire, challenge and equip followers of Jesus to take the gospel to the world, whether that is the person across the street, around the corner, or in the Indian jungle who has never met a Christian. So if you are a follower of Jesus, this conference is for you. Join us and hundreds of others from churches around our area as we worship together, hear from keynote speaker
Todd Ahrend, and are equipped by fantastic workshop presenters on topics like long-term missions, reaching the underprivileged in our city, and integrating faith and work. Whether you’ve been serving in missions for years or you don’t even really know what missions is - there is a place for all of us at the SOULS Conference. Following Jesus means going where He goes, and throughout the gospels He goes to those who don’t yet know Him. Near the end of John’s gospel, Jesus makes it clear to His disciples about their calling to go: “As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you” (John 20:21). And how did the Father send Jesus? In humility, with compassion, full of grace and truth, bringing good news of great joy that will be for ALL the people (Luke 2:10). We you and I - are sent ones, called with a purpose to share the good news of Jesus with the world. And when we step into that calling, we find the abundant life that Jesus promises. Join us on March 7 as we gather around the rallying cry of sent ones: WE GO!
MARCH 7 B AY A R E A C O M M U N I T Y C H U R C H ANNAPOLIS CAMPUS
$25 per person includes breakfast, lunch, coffee and conference materials. Limited KidCare is available with registration.
Learn more and register at bayareacc.org/soulsconference
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Appalachia
TRIP DESCRIPTIONS:
The Wade Center, our partner in Bluefield, West Virginia, exists to nurture Bluefield children, youth and their families spiritually, physically, emotionally and intellectually. They offer practical programs such as after-school tutoring and summer camp, as well as mentoring relationships with staff and volunteers. You and your team will engage in relational ministry through a Vacation Bible School for elementaryaged children, and you may have the opportunity to put your construction or artistic skills to use serving in the local Bluefield community. This is an excellent fit for those looking to grow through their first mission trip or if you have a heart for Appalachia and her families.
Dominican Republic In the Dominican Republic, you will serve alongside Dominican missionaries Miguel and Rosy to support the work of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Your team might build a home, construct a ballfield, teach Biblical principles to coaches, play sports and more! Join our firstever team to serve the people of the Dominican Republic this summer; you won’t regret it.
Each year, Bay Area sends teams of people around the world with a story to tell about the hope found in Jesus and the abundant life that He offers everyone who trusts in Him. These teams exist to help us grow as followers of Jesus as we experience the vast array of cultures that He loves and as we share the gospel with our words and actions around the world. Everywhere we go, we serve alongside our global mission partners as they make passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations. Read on to learn about our 2020 short-term missions opportunities. To see a full list of trip dates, support goals and frequently asked questions, or to apply to join a team, visit bayareacc.org/stm.
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BELIZE Serve children and families in need through children’s ministry, pastoral training, or practical service in this English-speaking Central American nation. While in Belize, your team will work alongside Bay Area’s global partners to disciple children through Vacation Bible School, potentially help build a new home or church, pray with families, and distribute food to those in need. Worship alongside Belizean Christians as you meet practical needs for families living in poverty and share the love of Jesus. If you’re considering your first international mission trip, enjoy construction or building relationships with the local community, or are passionate about education, Belize is a great opportunity to serve.
El Salvador While in El Salvador, you will spend time working alongside our local church partner, Iglesia Gran Comisión, ministering to children, many of whom come from homes in extreme poverty. You will spend your days at the Children’s Center teaching the kids about Jesus’ love for them while helping with meals, upkeep of the center, and helping the teachers with many of the daily duties. You have the opportunity to share Jesus’ love and truth both in word and deed by teaching the children about Jesus and providing resources and support. If you love children, this is the trip for you!
GHANA YOUTH MINISTRY
NATIONAL LEADERSHIP CAMP
Scripture Union (SU) Ghana is an outreach organization that spreads the name of Jesus in schools throughout the nation. Partner with SU’s leader, Uncle Kwame, to share your faith journey and Bible lessons to inspire and challenge the students of Ghana to take their next step as passionate, maturing followers of Jesus. You and your team will travel to a variety of schools to meet with students in both large and small group settings, allowing you to share Scripture and pray with the students for the challenges they are experiencing. Ghanaians are warm and welcoming, quick with smiles and ready to connect with you.
Scripture Union Ghana General Director Uncle Kwame is ready to work with you as they host camps to equip their young leaders to serve in schools throughout the 2019-2020 academic year. You will help facilitate one or more of the camps, where high school students from around the country gain the skills to be strong leaders on their campus, as well as how to facilitate the SU Bible study group when they return to school. In this role, you will connect with students in both small and large group settings. You and your team will teach leadership skills, share your testimonies, facilitate Bible studies, and have meaningful conversations. Love students, teaching, leadership or laughter? This trip might be for you!
INDIA
lebanon
Experience firsthand the three P’s of India: plurality of religion, poverty and population. India is the second-most populous nation in the world, and less than 2 percent of their people have ever had the opportunity to hear the name of Jesus. This is a unique opportunity to work with Pastor Samuel and Pastor Joseph as they reach the unreached through the International Cultural Bible Ministries. You will serve by encouraging local believers, helping teach pastors spreading the gospel in the tribal regions, or working with children in the community. India is the perfect opportunity to take that next step in maturity of serving on mission with Jesus.
While in Lebanon, you will serve families in Syrian refugee camps by sharing meals and stories, engaging women and children using your spiritual gifts, teaching from the Bible, and encouraging local believers. Experience Middle Eastern culture (and food!) as you get a broader glimpse of God’s heart for all people. Because of the sensitive nature of this ministry, PAST MISSIONS EXPERIENCE IS RECOMMENDED.
POLAND
UGANDA
You and your children can be on mission together, serving Polish families attending a Family English Camp. You will teach English with the Bible as your textbook, opening up the opportunity to share the gospel with those who might not know Jesus personally. The camp environment provides the ideal setting for connecting and building relationships with these families, celebrating decisions and baptisms together, and having good family fun. No matter your stage of life, this team is a great fit for families, single adults, empty-nesters and anyone considering their first international missions team.
In Uganda you will partner with our ministry partner, Precious Souls Ministry, and local social workers to visit homes within the community and assess the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of families affected by HIV/ AIDS. If you have medical skills, you may assist in the medical clinic. You may also help develop a microfinancing program, assess shelter needs with the possibility of doing repair work, and evaluate the educational system while helping advance it. If you have a passion for medical missions, holistic community development, or serving the marginalized, this may be the trip for you.
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TWO GUYS WALK INTO A BAR By Trevin Hoekzema
so tell me your story!” I said over the loud music in The Greene Turtle in Crofton. “The whole thing?” Sameer asked, laughing. “Yeah! I’ve got time,” I replied, settling into my burger and fries.
Sameer grew up in rural Indiana. His family moved there from India when he was 5 years old. One day in second grade, while playing basketball with some of his friends, one of them asked him if he was a Christian. When Sameer told him that he wasn’t, his friend replied, “My daddy said you’re going to hell if you’re not a Christian.” That day was the last day those friends played basketball with Sameer. That short interaction paved the way for years of pained interactions in his community. As the only nonChristian immigrant family in the small community, Sameer consistently faced rejection. As a young kid, the society around him silently communicated that Christians were exclusive and prejudiced toward people from other backgrounds. There was a closed door to integration with the community based on a cultural barrier that he wasn’t allowed to cross.
Then, he met Mary. In middle school, Sameer made a friend and found a family who reopened the door for him. The mom, Mary, communicated through her warmth and affection that you can be different and still be loved and included. She began to force open the door that the community had shut. But even still, Sameer faced continued rejection. Rejection came in the form of sideways glances or consistent “no’s” to invitations. If you weren’t part of the Christian community, it was hard to even get someone to go to the dance with you. Mary’s love for Sameer and the inclusion he felt in that family had a lasting impact. So much so, that Sameer went to church with the Irish-Italian, Catholic family. He even went as far as to go through the Catholic catechism and be confirmed. He started to feel a part of something bigger. But once out of the comfort and care of that family, Sameer’s relationship with the church started to waver. While he was in law school, the Catholic church experienced great scandals in the midst of a plethora of abuse reports. Sameer quickly distanced himself from the church. The door closed again. He had opened himself up to placing his trust and identity in a group of people only to have it backfire again. From that moment on, Sameer said he was an atheist; how could God let something like that happen?
In college and beyond, he found that there was a much more diverse and inclusive culture outside the rural Indiana town he grew up in and that people really didn’t care what your religion was. Up until a year or so ago, his college, early career and adult life had been spent in comfort as an American who was free of the baggage of religious affiliation. He even challenged people in their faith at times, trying to get them to think outside their boxes.
Then he met Bailie. They met online and immediately hit it off. Before long, Sameer was in love and wanted to communicate that love through supporting Bailie and participating in things together. Over two years ago, Sameer started attending Bay Area with Bailie. He showed up to support her. He stayed because he felt something new.
Then, he met me. The email actually went to several people in the connecting department at Bay Area and they thought Sameer and I might be a good match to chat. I am forever grateful for that connection. After a few emails, Sameer and I set a date and met up for happy hour. It ended up being more than an hour as we laughed through each other’s life stories at The Greene Turtle in Crofton. We started the beginnings of a great friendship that night. On Monday, April 1, 2019, two guys walked into a bar, and two friends walked out. The rest of the spring and summer, Sameer and I met every few weeks to catch up and talk about things that were on our minds. We talked about the significance and supremacy of Christ. We talked about the story of the Israelites through Scripture, why bad
“ Sameer, what’s stopping you from fully committing to Jesus and putting your faith in him?” Through getting to know Bailie more, watching people interact with one another in the church lobby, and hearing the weekend sermons, Sameer saw a sense of unhindered joy. It was enticing, even beautiful. So much of his life had been bogged down by the stress of society around him. Watching Bailie and people at church walk around with such freedom and peace made him curious beyond control. So, he started to write an email. Initially, he didn’t want to tell Bailie for fear of getting her hopes up for something he wasn’t ready for. Even though she didn’t put any pressure on him to be a Christian, he had to talk to someone about it. He wrote the email, and saved it. Re-wrote it, and saved it. Re-rewrote it, and saved it again. The memories of rejection came flooding back as he considered sending the vulnerable email out to the all-toogeneric info@bayareacc.org. Would these people close the door too? Should he just delete the email and spare himself the humility? He hit send.
things happen to good people, and the difference between foreknowledge and predestination. Each time we met, Sameer had more questions about faith in Jesus. He spent time reading the Bible with his kids and letting Scripture shape his life. After a few months of this, I asked him one day, during another one of our happy hour meet-ups, “Sameer, what’s stopping you from fully committing to Jesus and putting your faith in him?” “Actually, I don’t think anything. So what do I do now?” he replied. I almost choked on the chicken wing I was eating. We talked more about the significance and weight of fully committing to Jesus. That night, Sameer professed his faith in Jesus. That brisk, September evening, two friends walked into the bar, and two brothers in Christ walked out. As I opened the door for him while leaving the restaurant that night, all I could do is thank God for His faithfulness.
F E B R U A R Y GO&MAKE 19
Ghana TO BELIZE , TO ODENTON
From
,
Serving On Mission Leads High Schooler Jack French To Serve At Home By Victoria Cline
20 GO&MAKE F E B R U A R Y
ack French currently serves on the tech team at Bay Area’s Odenton campus and has gone on two mission trips, serving first in Ghana and then Belize in the past few years. But here’s the surprising part about Jack French’s story – he only just turned 16. At age 13, Jack travelled outside of the U.S. for the very first time on a shortterm mission trip to Ghana with a small team that included his mom Amy. Just like everyone else on the trip, Jack had to raise financial support in order to go and attend trainings prior to the trip. There were only two others going under the age of 18, but Jack was excited and of course a little nervous to experience Ghana while serving others. While in Ghana, Jack was all in with the team and his passion for missions was sparked. Together, the team travelled to different schools to minister to students there through sharing testimonies, worshipping with them and just spending time together. Jack recalled that he really enjoyed talking to other kids and realizing they had so many common interests despite being from completely different cultures and backgrounds. One of the defining moments for Jack while in Ghana was when he was asked to share a testimony. Jack expressed that public speaking was not his gift, especially since he was in middle school at the time. The first opportunity Jack was given to share was in front of a group of around 30 people or so, but the second time he was asked to share was for a crowd of 1,500 people, which he described was much more nervewracking. Jack remembered thinking, “Everyone is looking at me. I don’t want to mess up.” But he managed to communicate clearly and afterward was glad to have been a part of sharing his story with others. After completing the trip to Ghana, Jack greatly desired to go back on mission and originally wanted to return to Ghana. He felt it was easy to share the
gospel with those in Ghana who seemed more open to discussion than those in the United States. Though Jack hasn’t yet returned to Ghana, in the fall of 2019, he had the opportunity to go on Bay Area’s student mission trip to Belize. Again, he was stretched in his faith. The team of students in Belize also visited schools and shared testimonies. Additionally, they hosted Vacation Bible School with tons of energetic kids and delivered and built bunk beds for local families in need. Jack was again asked to share a testimony while on this mission trip, which in some ways came more naturally because he had done it before but also was more difficult because he had to speak in front of a lot of his friends as well. That same night after listening to the mission team leader preach to the crowd, Jack felt convicted that he had not yet claimed his faith as his own. The next day, the team leader told him they were going to stop on their trip that day and have baptisms and asked if Jack would like to be baptized. Jack automatically knew he wanted to take that next faith step. He had been putting off being
encouragement, Jack was baptized that day in Belize. Thinking back on the incredible experience of standing there with the water rushing by, Jack described, “I thought we went on mission trips to help others, but we were also definitely the ones being helped.” Once back in Maryland, Jack knew he definitely wanted to go back on mission again, but he also wanted to get involved in serving on mission right here at Bay Area’s Odenton Campus. Jack originally started serving with the Odenton tech team because his dad was part of the team, but he really enjoyed learning new parts of the technology behind a Sunday gathering and loved getting to know the others on the team. Jack has learned to run three of the four pieces of equipment and is working on learning the fourth this year. He even brought in a friend to serve on the team with him, and now the two teenagers are valuable assets to the tech team. Jack highly encourages others to go on mission and join a serving team because of the positive impact both experiences have had on his life. When asked why he felt missions and serving were so important, Jack responded, “not only
“ I thought we went on mission trips to help others, but we were also definitely the ones being helped.” baptized for awhile, because he didn’t really want a crowded auditorium of people watching him. But because of the small size of the group and how he had felt God nudging him the night before, Jack knew this was the perfect time to make a public declaration of his faith. So on the side of the road, in a river, surrounded by his team and strangers driving by honking their horns in
will you have an eye-opening experience while overseas, but the friendships and bonds that you make while on those trips are also amazing. And serving allows you to learn something that makes the church a better place while also making lasting friendships within your team. Anyone can do it!”
F E B R U A R Y GO&MAKE 21
Marriage… it’s simple, right? By Leanne Lane
only my spouse would act, respond, think like me, clean up, shape up and be the way they should (according to my expectations), then our marriage would be simple!” Many who are married have likely thought something like this. But that is not reality, nor does it align with God’s design for marriage. Even after 37 years of marriage, I myself am still learning to release my expectations and love my spouse for who God made him to be. The space after YES! and before “I Do” is full of romance, excitement and anticipation for a perfect future together – long walks on the beach, dinner by candlelight and so on. But that dream is often short-lived because reality sets in. And, if we’re honest, we realize that we are just as human as our spouses – full of pride, selfishness and sin to name a few. Couple all of that with life’s ever-challenging circumstances, we recognize our perceived “perfect” marriage picture was just an illusion.
22 GO&MAKE F E B R U A R Y
As the months and years go by and couples get more comfortable and accustomed to each other, and when the reality of life barrels in with all of its challenging circumstances, the marriage can easily and unintentionally fade into the background, or maybe even crash into crisis mode. Here at Bay Area, there is no need to wait for marriage apathy or crisis. There is hope right now, and there is a place where husbands and wives can intentionally and creatively recalibrate to keep their marriage fresh with other married couples who want to do the same.
Bay Area’s Marriage Ministry team spoke to two couples about how they have kept their relationship on the front burner through the inevitable ups and downs in order to cultivate a thriving marriage. We asked them a few questions. Here’s what they had to say:
1
How do you keep your marriage fresh? “ To keep our relationship fresh we always try to pursue one another. This can be as simple as midday texts or phone calls just to tell one another we are thinking about them and ask, ‘How is your day?’ We always ask, ‘Is there anything I can pray for you about?’ We have a date night once a week, and once a month we try to have a full day date. Most importantly, we share the Word of God together each day through Bible studies, verses of the day, or just finding encouraging Bible verses to send one another for what we are experiencing in life at the time.” - Travis and Kimly Harrison (married 10+ years) “ Ensuring that we take time out of our busy schedules to focus on one another at least once a week. We put down all our distractions and spend quality time with one another and simply talk. The random things are the most fun, like a frozen pizza for date night or Sunday afternoon dancing in the kitchen while we prepare meals for the week.” - Hunter and Savannah Hale (married less than one year)
2 How do you influence and inspire
others to invest in their marriages? “ We truly stay committed to displaying our love and devotion to one another. We try to live out our marriage with the same love, humility and selflessness that Jesus exemplified. Others see that and can tell that there is something different about our relationship. That is a window of opportunity to magnify Jesus and direct the glory back to God.” - Travis and Kimly Harrison
3 How would you encourage other
young married couples to invest in their marriages? “ As believers, we learned that we had to put God first in order to have a healthy marriage. The world tells us to invest in earthly things such as our homes, retirements and careers; however, in order to glorify God, we need to make those secondary and invest in our spouse and marriage with even more passion. We do this by attending marriage retreats, marriage small groups, and other similar growth opportunities. We often refer to them as ‘marriage maintenance.’ The best possible investment in your marriage is learning how you can pursue God first.” - Travis and Kimly Harrison
“ We would encourage other young married couples to invest in their marriages to prepare for the challenges to come when two imperfect people become one. Get involved in the Marriage Ministry, don’t wait until there is a problem to find a solution, and be proactive not reactive.” - Hunter and Savannah Hale
4 How does your church family play a role in your marriage?
“ The impact of our church family is immeasurable. They help us keep it real. Church communities always remind us to point all things back to God and remind us it’s not about us – it’s about Him. Being in relationship with the church family helps us build a community that we can depend on and know will lift us up during tough times. We can’t say enough about how important that community is.” - Travis and Kimly Harrison
“ Bay Area has been a great outlet for us newlyweds. The Marriage Ministry has afforded us the opportunity to have mentors, learn from more seasoned couples, and better shape our relationship in an effort to serve God.” - Hunter and Savannah Hale
“ Throughout our marriage (all seven months of it) we have physically spent more time apart than together. Because of this, we have learned you can grow closer and develop a stronger relationship in Christ with your spouse no matter the circumstance.” - Hunter and Savannah Hale
To learn about resources and events offered by Bay Area’s Marriage Ministry, go to bayareacc.org/annapolis/marriage. F E B R U A R Y GO&MAKE 23
BAPTISM
HAPPENINGS
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE BAPTIZED? For more information, contact: K-5th: thuli.leigh@bayareacc.org 6-12th: brent.squires@bayareacc.org Adults: shari.brandt@bayareacc.org
OUR MISSION Making passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations
YOUR FIRST STEP New to Bay Area or want to get involved? Join us at First Step, a fun, one-hour gathering where you’ll learn about who we are, what we believe, and what your next steps might be in order to grow in your spiritual journey. Snacks are provided. Take your first step at Bay Area by signing up today to attend the gathering on 3/1.
YOUR NEXT STEP If you are a part of Bay Area and are wanting to take your next step in your spiritual journey, Next Step is for you! Next Step is a one-hour gathering designed to help you grow as a disciple through community and/or serving. Join us on 2/9 to connect in community and to check out our serving opportunities. Hope to see you there!
BECOME A MEMBER Are you interested in joining our church family? Here at Bay Area, we call our members Ministry Partners because we are committed to partnering together to make passionate, maturing followers of Jesus from here to the nations. For those who would like to learn more about becoming a Ministry Partner, the next Ministry Partner Orientation is 3/22 from 12:30-4 p.m. To find upcoming dates or register for First Step, Next Step or Ministry Partner Orientation, go to bayareacc. org/nextsteps.
24 GO&MAKE F E B R U A R Y
CARE NETWORK There are times when every one of us experiences challenging circumstances, losses, relational pain and difficult transitions in our lives. God never intended that we go through these experiences alone. The Care Network provides a variety of resources, trained volunteers and referrals to professional counselors that can help you to move forward. We desire to provide hope and healing through a variety of resources both inside and outside the walls of Bay Area. Info: leanne.lane@bayareacc.org
GRIEFSHARE SUPPORT GROUP WINTER SESSION Thursdays, 2/6-5/7, 6:45-9 p.m., Room 178
If you’ve lost a spouse, child, family member or friend, this can be a very confusing time. You may feel isolated and have many questions about things you’ve never faced before. GriefShare is designed to help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone. GriefShare is a community of people who understand what you are going through and who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Cost is $15. Register: bayareacc.org/register
CAREGIVERS’ SUPPORT GROUP Sunday, 2/9, 1-2:30 p.m.
Being a caregiver can mean many things, from caring for the very young to providing adult services and taking care of aging adults. To be most effective in providing this care, caregivers need support, encouragement, practical advice and helpful resources that will equip them to better take care of themselves and their loved ones. Our monthly Caregivers’ Support Group is here to provide a safe place to engage with other caregivers, share challenges and joys and to be encouraged. Each session a new
community service provider will be there to share about their resource. No registration is necessary. Info: msbellamy77@gmail.com
DIVORCECARE SUPPORT GROUP WINTER SESSION Mondays, 2/3 – 5/4, 6:45-9 p.m. Room 237
Separated or in the midst of a divorce? Don’t walk through this difficult time alone. DivorceCare is a support group led by trained facilitators who have experienced divorce and rebuilt their lives through the help of this group. Each week the group features practical information, biblical teaching and encouragement to help you move forward. Cost: $15 Register: bayareacc.org/register
THE GREAT DATE NIGHT (ALL CAMPUSES) Friday, 2/14, 6-9 p.m., Auditorium
Michael and Amy Pickering will entertain us with their dueling pianos, award-winning music and comedy. Michael and Amy are full of highenergy fun - a perfect mix of clean comedy and your favorite sing-along music. Don’t miss this hilarious evening full of fun, laughter and ministry. There will be heavy hors d’oeuvres provided. This is a great opportunity to invite friends. KidCare is available for children ages infant to fifth grade. Register: bayareacc.org/register
ENGAGED?
We want to partner with you as you establish a strong, Jesus-centered life together. Through premarital mentoring you’ll be paired with trained marriage mentors who will equip you with the tools and resources you’ll need to succeed in marriage. Info: premarital.ministry@ bayareacc.org
CARE NETWORK SERVING OPPORTUNITIES CARE COACHES
Are you a man with the gifts of compassion and mercy who desires to help others in a coaching role? Care Coaches are maturing followers of Jesus who are compelled by God’s work in them to walk alongside hurting people as they discover the joy of a deepening relationship with the Lord. Training is provided.
DIVORCECARE
Have you experienced separation or
divorce and have a heart to help walk with others through this life change?
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT TEAM This team is looking for couples to assist with a variety of events throughout the year.
GRIEFSHARE
Have you participated in a GriefShare Support Group and benefited from this ministry and now have a heart to serve others? Training is provided. Info: leanne.lane@bayareacc.org
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY WAVE RIDERS
Are you a parent of nursery- or preschool-age children looking to be in community? We invite your family to be a part of our Wave Riders play group that meets twice a month from 10 a.m. to noon. 2/11: Ride-ons in the auditorium at Bay Area and Valentine craft 2/25: Odenton Library Story Time 3/10: Ride-ons in the auditorium at Bay Area Info: wave.riders@bayareacc.og
PARENT DEDICATION Sunday, 3/29, 1 p.m.
Have you committed as parents to raise your children for Jesus? Unlike a child dedication, this special ceremony marks your dedication as parents to instilling godly character in your children as you pursue Jesus as a family. You have been entrusted with the precious gift of your child’s life, and our Children’s Ministry is here to partner with you as you embark on this discipleship journey as parents. Our Parent Dedication celebrates this commitment with you while surrounded and supported by your friends and family. Info: kristin.collins@bayareacc.org.
EMPLOYMENT KIDCARE TEAM MEMBERS
Our KidCare team has a need for adults who have a heart for kids. We provide KidCare for all ministries and various events year-round. Want to join our team of paid workers? Email Program Coordinator Sarah at sarah. williams@bayareacc.org. For more info and to apply: bayareacc.org/jobs
GLOBAL MISSIONS SOULS CONFERENCE (ALL CAMPUSES) Saturday, 3/7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
You won’t want to miss our secondannual SOULS: World Missions Conference where together we’ll be inspired, challenged and equipped to take the gospel to the world. Join international speaker Todd Ahrend and hundreds of others to learn about why and how we GO - both locally and globally. KidCare is available with advance registration. Learn more and register: bayareacc.org/soulsconference
GO
Take the next step in your walk with Jesus and share God’s love in one of 10 locations worldwide. Learn about our locations and partners: bayareacc. org/missions. Submit an interest form for any of our teams or apply: bayareacc.org/stm
pick up a commitment card at an information counter or go to baccunrivaled.org/commitment.
GIVING METHODS
You can give toward your Unrivaled commitment through the offering during the gatherings or online at bayareacc.org/give You can also give by text: “BACC 50” (for Annapolis Campus) or “Odenton 50” (for Odenton Campus) to 30131.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GIVING! Questions: finance@bayareacc.org
COMMUNITY OUTREACH WINTER RELIEF March 9-16
We have the opportunity to serve the homeless of Anne Arundel County here at our Annapolis Campus by providing food and shelter for a week. For info on how you can be involved, email winterrelief@bayareacc.org.
SEND
EASTPORT FOOD PANTRY
PRAY
WINTER COATS, HATS AND MITTENS FOR CHILDREN -
Whether you can travel on mission this year or not, there’s still a way for you to be a part of what God is doing among the nations through Bay Area by financially supporting others. Give: bayareacc.org/stmgive Join with others to be encouraged and pray for our missionaries and global partners. This team meets second and fourth Sundays at 9:20 a.m. in the Prayer Room. Info: ccback84@gmail.com
Donate after-school snacks to help nourish hungry children who are going to bed hungry. For info on which items we are collecting email alex.williams@bayareacc.org.
Donate these items to support the international Welcome Center in Annapolis. This center enrolls 1015 international students into local public schools every day! Most children are below the poverty line. Info: alex.williams@bayareacc.org
FINANCIALS On June 1, 2018, Bay Area began a two-year generosity initiative called Unrivaled that will fund our ongoing ministry at all campuses, construction of our new student center and children’s addition, and expansion of Christ’s reach from here to the nations. Our two-year giving goal is $16,500,000.
FINANCIALS Giving Progress Toward Goal: (June 1, 2018 - January 23, 2020) $12,000,307.93
MAKE A COMMITMENT
Our primary goal in Unrivaled is 100 percent engagement - that every person at Bay Area would ask what it means to put God first in their finances. To make a commitment,
MEN’S FELLOWSHIP MEN’S MORNING BIBLE STUDY Tuesdays, 6-7:30 a.m., Room 236 Info: sales@ecosoils.net
MEN’S EVENING BIBLE STUDIES Sundays, 6-8 p.m., Room 235
This study is geared toward helping men draw closer to Jesus, discussing and discovering God’s answers for the challenges men face at home, work and in society. Info: bob.gregory@bayareacc.org
Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Room 235
Study the gospel of Mark. Come ready to be challenged to grow as a follower of Jesus. Info: horaciotablada@gmail.com F E B R U A R Y GO&MAKE 25
MEN’S BREAKFAST Saturday, 2/15, 8-9:30 a.m.
Join us for The Line: God ‘N Grits, a men’s monthly breakfast in the auditorium. The Line is an opportunity for men of Bay Area to gather around good food and maybe walk out with more than just a full stomach and a few laughs. Register: bayareacc.org/register
MEN’S SERVICE SATURDAY Saturday, 3/7, 8-10 a.m.
Meet at Bay Area at 8 a.m., and join us as we serve our community together. Info: terry.heinecke@bayareacc.org
MISSIONAL COMMUNITY Being connected with others helps us grow in our love for God, for each other, and for our neighbor. You can find out more about Missional Communities online at bayareacc.org/ missionalcommunities.
STUDENT MINISTRY AMPLIFY - ANNAPOLIS CAMPUS Wednesdays, 6-8:30 p.m.
Middle and high school students are invited to join us each Wednesday for hang out time and community groups, specific by grade and gender, and led by our adult leaders. The Warehouse Cafe has optional dinner available for purchase. Info: lauren.gibeault@bayareacc.org
FIRST FRIDAY Friday, 2/7, 7-9 p.m.
Middle school students can join us for our monthly First Friday event! The Warehouse and Café will be open for each event. There is no registration needed and this event is free. Info: tim.agnolutto@bayareacc.org
884 COFFEEHOUSE Sunday, 2/9, 7-9 p.m.
High school students can join us monthly for live music, coffee and games. This event is held in The Warehouse and will feature a musical guest. Students are encouraged to invite a new friend to this event. Info: tim.agnolutto@bayareacc.org
ABOVE ALL ELSE Saturday, 3/28, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Sixth-grade through college-aged females and their moms are invited to join us for a conference on lifelong purity. This is a free event and registration is available online. Register: bayareacc.org/register 26 GO&MAKE F E B R U A R Y
WOMEN’S MINISTRY Register for studies and events at bayareacc.org/annapolis/women.
THE WELL JONAH: NAVIGATING A LIFE INTERRUPTED BY PRISCILLA SHIRER Wednesdays, 1/15–4/8, 9:30-11:30 a.m. What do we do when God interrupts our lives? Many times, like Jonah, we run! In this Bible study, we will redefine interruption and learn that interruption can be God’s invitation to do something beyond our wildest dreams and grow closer to Him. When Jonah was willing to allow God to interrupt his life, the result was a revival of an entire city. What will God do in your life? Video sessions, small group discussions and weekly homework. Book cost: $15 Info: laurie.gregory@bayareacc.org
KIDCARE
Kidcare is available, on a space available basis, for babiespreschoolers during Well a.m. Cost $65/1 child, $85/2+children. Registration is required. Info: sarah.williams@bayareacc.org
JOSHUA: WINNING THE WORRY BATTLE BY BARB ROOSE Tuesdays, 1/14–4/14, 6:45-8:30 p.m.
Have you ever tried to fight worry with faith and felt you were losing the battle? Have comments like “God’s got this!” or “Just pray about it” only left you feeling more burdened? Rather than just applying clichés to our worry battles, we will learn through the life of Joshua how to fight our worries by faith in God’s promises. Video teaching, small group discussions and weekly homework will equip us for walking in peace and victory. Info: cmbernie@thekraftfam.com
ANNUAL WOMEN’S CONFERENCE (ALL CAMPUSES) Saturday, 4/4, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Surrendered: Letting Go and Living Like Jesus. Speaker: Barb Roose, author of “Joshua, Winning the Worry Battle”Anxiety vs. Peace. Agitation vs. Patience. Control vs. Surrender. When the world throws everything at you, how do you learn to let it go and simply live the way Jesus has called you to? Join us and guest speaker, Barb Roose, for a one-day conference as we work through how to practically and biblically address some of the most common challenges
that women face today! Cost $40, includes teachings, workshops, worship and lunch. Online registration starts 2/15. Info: laurie.gregory@bayareacc.org
WOMEN OF LEGACY (55+)
Join this group of senior women who support one another through encouragement and prayer on the second and fourth Mondays of the month 10:30 a.m. - noon. Info: luisandcedulie@gmail.com
QUILTS FOR KIDS Saturday, 2/15, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
The Annapolis Chapter of QFK meets for the purpose of making quilts for children in hospitals. Bring your sewing machine and your lunch. Quilting fabrics will be provided. We will meet in the Docks. Info: annapolisqfk@gmail.com
COLLEGE MINISTRY YOUNG ADULT MISSIONAL COMMUNITY (AGES 18-25) Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m.
Missional Communities are a great opportunity for people to connect in community where they are loving God, serving others and growing spiritually together. Info: lauren.gibeault@bayareacc.org
PRAYER MINISTRY Our Prayer Ministry comprises individuals dedicated to praying for all aspects of Bay Area: gatherings, pastors, missions and more. Individuals are also available to pray after each gathering (front-right of Chapel stage). Info: bayareacc.org/prayer
SERVE LIKE JESUS Below are some of our current serving opportunities. For more information, and to sign up, go to bayareacc.org/serve. AMBASSADOR TEAM GREETER TEAM AUDIO/VIDEO TEAM CHILDREN’S MINISTRY CHILDREN’S SET DESIGN TEAM PARKING TEAM PRESCHOOL TEAM SAFETY TEAM OPERATIONS TEAM
EASTON CAMPUS
ODENTON CAMPUS
HAPPENINGS
HAPPENINGS
WEEKLY PRAYER Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Bay Area Easton Office: 29000 Information Lane, Suite 304 Everyone is welcome.
DIVORCECARE SUPPORT GROUP Tuesdays, 2/4 - 4/28, 6:45-9 p.m. Bay Area Easton Office
Are you separated, in the process of divorce or already divorced? Don’t walk through this difficult time alone. DivorceCare is a 13-week support group led by trained facilitators who have experienced divorce and rebuilt their lives. Each week the group features practical information, biblical teaching and encouragement to help you move forward. (Please note you can join at any time. Each session is unique). Cost: $20; workbook included and scholarships are available. Info: amanda.eckholm@ bayareacc.org
BOUNDARIES Mondays, 2/3 - 3/23, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Bay Area Easton Office
Does your life feel like it’s out of control? Join us starting Monday, February 3, as we dig into a study called Boundaries. This eight-week study will help you learn when to say yes and know how to say no in order to take control of your life and set healthy, biblical boundaries with your spouse, children, friends, parents, co-workers and even yourself. Register: bayareacc.org/ register
WINTER MELTDOWN Friday, 3/6 - Sunday, 3/8
High school and middle school students can join us for our annual winter retreat to River Valley Ranch. Activity options include zip lining, paintball, horseback riding, dodgeball, and more. Registration is open online, and the cost is $175. Space is limited. Questions? jake. wieduwilt@bayareacc.org
YOUR FIRST STEP
New to Bay Area or want to get involved? Join us at First Step, a fun, one-hour gathering where you’ll learn about who we are, what we believe, and what your next steps might be in order to grow in your spiritual journey. Join us on 3/1 at 11 a.m. Info: bayareacc.org/nextsteps
WINTER R E LI E F
YOUR NEXT STEP
If you are a part of Bay Area and are wanting to take your next step in your spiritual journey, Next Step is for you! Next Step is a onehour gathering designed to help you grow as a disciple through community and/or serving. Join us on 2/9 at 11 a.m. Info: bayareacc.org/nextsteps
GET CONNECTED IN ODENTON Want to serve in Odenton or get plugged into community? Email Campus Coordinator Amy at amy. french@bayareacc.org.
WOMEN’S DINNER & BIBLE STUDY: “WOMEN WHO BELIEVED GOD” Thursdays, 1/2–2/27, 6:15-8:30 p.m.
Books and dinner purchased separately. For more info contact HoracioSharon@gmail.com
ODENTON STUDENT MINISTRY AMPLIFY Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Amy French’s House
Students in grades 6 through 12 are welcome to join us for snacks, Bible study and time to hang out.
WINTER MELTDOWN Friday, 3/6 - Sunday, 3/8
High school and middle school students can join us for our annual winter retreat to River Valley Ranch. Activity options include zip lining, paintball, horseback riding, dodgeball, and more. Registration is open online, and the cost is $175. Space is limited. Questions? daniel. maxham@bayareacc.org
Serve with us March 9-16. bayareacc.org/winterrelief
Friday, February 14 6- 9 PM Michael and Amy Pickering will entertain with their dueling pianos, award-winning music and comedy. Don’t miss this hilarious evening full of fun, laughter and ministry. KidCare is available for children ages infant through fifth-grade.
bayareacc.org/register 28 GO&MAKE F E B R U A R Y