SEPTEMBER2 0 1 4

GOD STORYTHIS MONTH AT FELLOWSHIP

MISSIONS SPOTLIGHT

B I B L E C H U R C Hfellowship

MAKING DISCIPLES WHO LIVE BY GOD’S GRACE & FOR HIS GLORY AT HOME & ACROSS THE WORLD

BY LINDSEY THOMA AND LEIGH HUDSON

The first thing that comes to mind when I think about our Tuesday night D Group at ReNew is community. In the book of Acts, the author tells us that first-century believers came together in very practical ways: selling their possessions and meeting one another’s needs (Acts 2:42-46). The gospel had altered their perspective on life to the point that when they saw a need, they were willing to let go of their own personal comfort to meet it. Being a member of our group is not always comfortable, but getting to be part of Jesus’ transforming work in one another’s lives is worth every uncomfortable moment. While our little tribe may not be selling our belongings, we are seeking to share life’s burdens in practical ways. I believe it was this attitude of love that caused a recent newcomer to remark, “You guys really care deeply about one another! I want to be a part of that!”

We are all broken and experience the effects of sin. Whether our reason for being in a ReNew personal group is because we’ve been sinned against or because we have sinned against others, we share a common need: to grow in our understanding of God’s grace and have our hearts and minds renewed by it. At ReNew, we do this weekly through self-examination, confession, repentance, and walking in faith. And each week we grow closer to our Lord and one another.

To learn more about ReNew, or to sign up for a group visit fellowshiponline.com/renew.

GOD STORYWe’d love for you to get connected at Fellowship. Here are some easy ways to get involved:

FELLOWSHIP NEXTThis class is hosted by our pastors. You’ll hear about:

• our mission of discipleship• our strategy for growing as disciples of Jesus

and making disciples• our ministries and how you can get connected• the steps you can take to join Fellowship as a

member

We’ll gather after second service, get to know one another and answer questions you may have. Lunch and child care provided.

BENTON September 7, Reserve child care at the Connection Center or benton@fellowshiponline.com. CABOT Nov 9, 12:30-2:30 pm. Register by emailing cabot@fellowshiponline.com.

D GROUPS The key strategy we use for being and making disciples is our small groups, which we call D Groups (short-hand for Discipleship Groups). Stop by the Connection Center to find out more about these groups.

BAPTISM Baptisms are some of our favorite events because we get to see people going public with their decision to follow Christ. If you’re interested in learning more about this important step at one of our upcoming baptism classes, stop by the Connection Center or email us.

STAY ENGAGED You’ll find the latest information and registration online and on our MyFellowship App available for Apple, Android and Windows devices.

LITTLE ROCK fellowshiplr

1401 Kirk Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72223 fellowshiponline.com 501.224.7171

BENTON fellowshipbenton fellowshipben 5724 Alcoa Road, Benton, Arkansas 72015

fellowshipbenton.com 501.315.1560 email benton@fellowshiponline.com

CABOT fellowshipcabot fellowshipcab

2895 Bill Foster Mem. Hwy, Cabot, Arkansas 72023 fellowshipcabot.com 501.605.8400 email cabot@fellowshiponline.com

WELCOME

ADULT DISCIPLESHIPFellowship Men: A Man and his Work Starts Wednesday, September 24, 6-7:30 am in the Worship Center. All men struggle with their work. Many of us try to find significance, approval, or status from work. It no longer becomes just something that we do, but who we are. Join us for this six-week study as we find where our true identity comes from and how it changes our work.

Father Son Campout Dads, bring your sons for fishing, frisbee and fellowship! October 3-5, Lonsdale, Arkansas. Sign up at the Connection Center or email benton@fellowshiponline.com.

Girls’ Night Out: Bunco Bash Women, join us September 26, 6:30-8:30 pm in the FSK wing! Bring a friend and enjoy an evening of fast-paced fun. No experience necessary! Childcare available by reservation only. Contact benton@fellowshiponline.com.

Women Fall Bible studies: Tuesday Mornings 9:30– 1:30 am (Sept 9 – Mar 17)

Beth Moore’s Children of the Day. This in-depth class will meet as a large group with video teaching, and then have focused discipleship time in small groups.

Wednesday Evenings 6:30–8:30 pm (Sept 10 – Mar 18) Beth Moore’s Children of the Day. This in-depth class will meet as a large group with video teaching, and then have focused discipleship time in small groups.

Thursday Mornings 10 am – noon (Sept 11 – May 14)Precept upon Precept - Covenant. See the incredible thread running from Genesis through Revelation. God enters into a binding agreement with His people and always keeps His promises.

Care Nights Wednesdays, 6:30 pm Marriage Group Discipleship in the context of

marriage. Encounter the transforming power of God’s grace in our everyday marital needs through discussion groups and studies. Marriage Study—Paul David Tripp, “What Did You Expect?” begins September 17 at 6:30 pm. Register for the class and reserve child care at the Connection Center or email us at benton@fellowshiponline.com.

Financial Group Financial Peace University(FPU) presents biblical, practical steps to get from where you are to where you’ve dreamed you could be. The course begins September 17 at 6:30 pm. Register and reserve child care at the Connection Center or email us at benton@fellowshiponline.com.

Women’s Group Beth Moore’s Children of the Day. This in-depth class will meet as a large group with video teaching, and then have focused discipleship time in small groups.

FAMILY DISCIPLESHIPFellowship Kids (FSK) Sundays, 9 or 11 | FSK invites all children (infants–6th grade) to join us to experience what it means to become a disciple who lives by God’s grace at home and across the world.

FSM Benton Fall Retreat September 26-28 | Join us at Timber Lodge Ranch in Amity, Arkansas as we dig into John 15 discussing how as Christ followers each of us is called to bear fruit abiding in Jesus. The cost is $55. The waiver form and money are due Wednesday, September 17. If you have any questions or if cost is an issue please see Zach.

Echo Wednesdays 6:30-8 | Join us in the Barn for a large group time of worship, teaching, and fun!

BENTON

THIS MONTH AT FELLOWSHIP HIGHLIGHTS D CAFÉ ONE NIGHT TO GROW AS A DISCIPLE SEPTEMBER 7 [BENTON 6-8 PM, CABOT 5-7 PM]

Come be challenged by our pastors to grow as a disciple in the areas of theology, relationships, missions and spiritual practices. Coffee, snacks and child care provided. (Benton, reserve child care at the Connection Center.)

SPECIAL EVENT: TULLIAN TCHIVIDJIAN THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 6:30 PM

We’re excited to welcome Tullian Tchividjian to Fellowship this fall! Tullian is the senior pastor at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and the grandson of evangelist Billy Graham. All campuses are invited to our Little Rock campus to hear a message Fellowship desperately needs to hear: God’s grace is inexhaustible and He is most glorified when that grace shines brightly in the lives of sinners. The event is free and open to the public. Child care is available for a small fee, but you must register before October 10 at fellowshiponline.com/events.

THIS MONTH AT FELLOWSHIPFSM D Groups begin Sunday, September 7. See Zach for specific times and locations. Email zmartin@fellowshiponline.com.

MISSIONSEPIC After School Sign up at the Connection Center to be a tutor and mentor to neighborhood kids who live at Chapel Ridge apartments. Fall kickoff begins Wednesday, September 17!

OPPORTUNITIES Employment: Child Care We need part-time workers Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 9 am–noon starting this fall. Email benton@fellowshiponline.com.

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP

Fellowship Women Fall Gathering September 2, 7-8:30 pm for a night of Scripture, vision, and worship with the theme When Big Gets Small. Bring a friend or neighbor and don’t miss our first gathering of the year!

Fellowship Women Fall Studies It’s not too late to register! Child care is available. Grab our brochure at the Connection Center or visit fellowshipcabot.com/women to see options and to sign up.

Tuesday Evenings 6:30-8:30 pm (Sept 9 – Nov 4) Understanding the Bible, led by Kristi Merrick. Unlock the over-arching story of scripture through an in-depth look at key figures, themes, events and places.

Wednesday Mornings 9-11 am (Sept 10-May 2015) BLOOM (Building a Legacy Out of Motherhood), led by Allison Herndon; Whether you are a new mom or a grandmother, Bloom is a place to connect with other women in different stages of life, grow spiritually, and pour that growth into your families during the rest of the week. Fall study—Scouting the Divine.

Fellowship Women Fall Retreat Sept 26-28. Relax and recharge with other women at the beautiful Shepherd of the Ozarks on the Buffalo River. Cost is $185, $50 deposit at registration. Balance is due September 14. To register, email dprice@fellowshiponline.com.

Men’s 33: A Man and His Work Starting Wednesday, Sept 24, 6-7:30 am. Work plays a huge role in the life of every man and who God made us to be. But when we try to find significance, approval or status from work,

we’ll only be frustrated. Join other men for six weeks as we study God’s vision of work so we can go about it full of passion and purpose.

Join a D Group Our discipleship-focused small groups, called D Groups, are at the heart of our church’s mission and make our big church feel small. No matter what needs you have or obstacles you’re facing, we have a place for you to connect more deeply in our church. To see when and where groups meet, find out how to jump in with a group, stop by the connection center or email cabot@fellowshiponline.com. Groups begin meeting Sept 14.

Care D Groups Launch If you are interested in a D Group focused on a specific need in life, consider jumping in with one of these new groups starting this fall.

Financial Peace University FPU presents biblical, practical steps to get from where you are to where you’ve dreamed you can be. Led by Austin and Emma Walker.

Foster & Adoption For anyone who is involved in foster or adoptive care, or who has a heart for those things. Led by Brian and Niki Bolton.

FAMILY DISCIPLESHIPFellowship Kids (FSK) invites all children (infants - 6th grade) to join us during either service, 9 or 11 am. Kids experience worship, teaching and small group discussions that point them to the great big, never-ending love of God.

Fifty6 This month we’re talking with preteens about the challenges that come with beginning a new school year. Psalm 54:4 says, “Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.” In our series Back 2 School, preteens will see how God is our help in these changes and challenges. Fifty6 is for all 4-6 graders and meets during the 9 am service in the Garage.

Fellowship Student Ministry (FSM) 7-12 graders are invited every Wednesday night to ECHO for worship, teaching and community. Questions, email Austin at awalker@fellowshiponline.com.

FSM D Group Kickoff If you’re in 7-12 grade, we have a group ready for you that meets weekly to dive into Scripture and live life together. Email Austin to find out about yours!

FSM Traks On October 8, FSM D Groups from every campus will meet at War Memorial Stadium for the biggest competition FSM has ever seen. For details on Traks and D Groups, email Austin!

CABOT

ON OUR LITTLE ROCK CAMPUSFellowship is one church with locations in Benton, Little Rock and Cabot. We are united by one teaching, mission and vision. We want to make sure you are aware of opportunities held on our Little Rock campus that are of interest to all campuses.

REND COLLECTIVE IN CONCERT October 2, 7 pm in the Worship Center. Rend Collective will be at Fellowship as a part of their The Art of Celebration tour. Get tickets in the Connection Center or at the door. Check out rendcollective.com to hear their music and learn more about their ministry.

NIGHT OF PRAYER Join us for a night of worship and prayer Monday, September 8, 6:30-7:45 pm in the Warehouse. Together, we’ll seek God’s direction for our church and lives. Child care is available through registration; email childcare@fellowshiponline.com.

2 TO 1 PREMARITAL CLASS Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, September 25–November 20. If you’re engaged, thinking about getting engaged or have recently been married, this program is designed for you. This fun and engaging course equips couples for marriages that will last a lifetime and bring glory to God. The cost to register is $25 per couple. Register at fellowshiponline.com/marriage.

STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING Fellowship’s Stephen Ministers have received 50 hours of caregiving training to minister to people experiencing a crisis, facing a challenge, or simply going through a tough time. Want to learn how you can be a Stephen Minister? A new training class begins September 7, 3-5:30 pm.

RENEW Tuesdays, 6:30 pm–Worship and Teaching, 7:15-8:30 pm–Groups. ReNew is a worship, teaching and discipleship group ministry where we are encountering God’s grace in our need. Newcomers are welcome weekly. To learn more or sign up for our studies, groups and child care, visit the Connection Center or fellowshiponline.com/renew.

SAGEWORKS MAIN EVENT September 28, 6–7:30 pm in the Warehouse; Kerby Anderson, nationally known writer and speaker, will discuss “A Biblical Point of View on Intelligent Design.”

SAGEWORKS NEXT STEPS SEMINAR September 18, 6:30–8 pm in the Chapel; Learn more about senior living and care options—independent, assisted, or full-care—for yourself or a loved one. Register by calling Donna, 224-7171 or dskrivanos@fellowshiponline.com.

LOCAL MISSIONS

To find out about upcoming events and opportunities to serve with our local ministry partners: The CALL and CASA (foster and adoption care), Options Pregnancy Center, Lonoke County Christian Clinic, or First Care and Hope’s Closet (food and clothing pantries), visit fellowshipcabot.com/ministries/missions

The CALL Interest Meeting Find out how to help children in need through fostering, adopting, or volunteering. Monday, September 29, 6:30pm at Mount Carmel Baptist Church (Cabot).

CASA Banquet Help raise awareness and funds for foster children at CASA’s Home and Outdoors Fundraising Dinner and Auctions. Tuesday, September 23, 6 pm at the Cabot National Guard Armory. For information, visit lonokecasa.org or call (501) 676-6533.

PLUG IN AND SERVE

We are always looking for folks to jump in and serve on our different ministry teams. Not only will you fill a much needed role in our church, you’ll also fill a need in your own life as a follower of Jesus as you meet new people and discover new things about God. Email cabot@fellowshiponline.com to start serving with one of our teams: Kids, Students, Worship/Tech, Cafe, X Team.

CABOT (continued)

MISSIONS: AT HOME & ACROSS THE WORLD

LOCALby Jason Duncan

Meet Danny Cortez. Three months ago he was serving a prison sentence. Today, he’s on the verge of starting a small business, is being discipled and making disciples, and has an bright future ahead of him. He would tell you it all started with God getting a hold of his life.

For Danny, going through Men’s Fraternity while serving his sentence brought him into a deeper relationship with God and spurred him to start making some serious life changes; including going to Hidden Creek Opportunity Center after his release. David Watson had been Danny’s small group leader in Men’s Fraternity. After bonding through that process, Danny asked David to be his mentor.

Danny and David continued to work through an entrepreneurial mindset course that Fellowship volunteers piloted this summer. Coupled with the entrepreneurial course was a discipleship course on the first principles of faith. These gave volunteers and participants the opportunity to delve into a holistic approach to wisdom and investing our lives well.

After that, Danny did something that will make every disciple-maker smile. He took those first principles of discipleship that he had been taught and began teaching them to other guys as well.

This is what Fellowship is all about—seeing lives transformed through the Gospel, and seeing disciples multiplied for God’s Kingdom. It doesn’t require extensive training; all it takes to impact a life for Christ is to show up and share life and truth. Danny took the opportunities and resources God gave him, and is making the most of them. He not only has a vision for his life now, he has a plan to make it a reality. And with David’s help, he’s putting that plan into effect.

If you’re interested in getting involved with prison ministry, contact Jennifer for women’s prison ministry at jhawthorne@fellowshiponline.com or Duncan for men’s prison ministry jduncan@fellowshiponline.com.

GLOBAL by Patricia Faith Williams

The majority of the world only sees Guatemala as a spot on a map, or a marker in history. In my brief time in the wonderful country, it was made clear to me that it is so much more.

As an American intern in Guatemala, what I saw through my own eyes stunned me to my core. The people I encountered welcomed me and loved me without hesitation. The people of the church were so adamant about sharing the Word and making disciples that their attitudes affected everyone near them.

On my first day we went to visit an opportunity center. A place where children with disadvantages can go to learn about the Bible, get help with homework, and be given a meal to eat. When we walked through the door and we were suddenly attacked by a swarm of children eager to hug the pretty “gringas.” Their eagerness to please easily transferred over to their eagerness to learn.

Other days we focused on door-to-door ministries. It was hard to digest seeing people live off of so little when they worked so much harder than I did, yet I have infinitely more than them. However, they were so willing to open their homes and give what little they had with no hesitation. The hearts of the people were worn on their sleeves, and in response, it was easier for us to do the same in return.

Being an intern in Guatemala gave me the opportunity to experience love in a way I never have before. It gave me the opportunity to witness first-hand how some people work through their hardships, and it gave me the opportunity to share the love of God and see it lift up those who had lost the light. Being an intern in Guatemala was an experience I would trade for nothing. Thanks to God, it undoubtedly changed me in many ways I’m sure I have yet to realize.

Like to learn more about global missions opportunities? Visit fellowshipmissions.com.