AUGUST2 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

We’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 August 3, 12:30-2:30 pm

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 be placed in a group.

BAPTISM Baptisms are some of our favorite events because we get to acknowledge public decisions to follow Christ. If you’re interested in taking this important step, stop by the Connection Center or email us. BENTON Next baptism is October 19. CABOT Email cabot@fellowshiponline.com for dates. STAY ENGAGED You’ll find the latest information and registration online and on our MyFellowship App available for Apple, Android and Windows phones.

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

BLOOM BUILDING A LEGACY OUT OF MOTHERHOODBY CAROL SPENST

This fall I will begin my seventh year in the Bloom ministry. I joined when I became pregnant with my first child, Lily. I joined because I became anxious to learn from other mothers about the new adventure. Over the past six years, I have made countless friends through my years in Bloom, and I am so very thankful. Bloom has not only been a great way to fellowship with other women but has given me the opportunity to listen and learn from godly women that have continually pointed me towards Christ in our speakers as well as small group leaders.

Last year, after five years of being a part of Bloom, I was encouraged to consider becoming a leader. Many of my close friends were becoming leaders as well and after much thought and prayer, I decided this would be the right decision for me. It was with a bit of trepidation that I started off a new year as a leader. It can certainly be nerve-wracking to sit in front of a group of women and wonder how God will use you and the time to encourage and teach them. I have to say, I was hoping and praying that God would show up. And of course He did.

My time leading in Bloom last year was an excellent reminder that it’s not about waiting for God to show up, but being willing to show up with Him. He blessed my co-leader and me with an incredible group of women who were willing and ready to learn and share their hearts. The whole experience was a unique privilege, and I am very much looking forward to this next year!

To learn more about our women’s small groups, visit the Connection Center today.

GOD STORY

ADULT DISCIPLESHIPWomen’s Ministry Fair August 3 | Find out what’s in store for women this coming year while enjoying food and fellowship! Adult classroom/FSK Wing.

Girls’ Night Out: Summer Survival August 8, 6:30-8 pm | Enjoy a night out with the girls in a relaxed, fun atmosphere! Multipurpose room/FSK Wing.

AMPLIFY Christian Music Festival August 29-30 | This free two-day event features Christian music from today’s top artists, kid’s activities, bounce houses, military vehicles, and a fireworks show. The festival is located next to the Saline County Fairgrounds and the Bernard Holland Baseball Park. Featured artists will be Big Daddy Weave, MIKESCHAIR, The Museum, Sanctus Real, Citizen Way, Jeremy Camp, and our own Drew Cline. For more details go to amplifyfest.org.

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.

FSK Volunteer Training August 12 & 13, 6 pm | All 2014-15 volunteers will be encouraged and equipped to serve. For child care reservations, please register at benton@fellowshiponline.com by August 5.

FSK Promotion Sunday August 17 | Your child will report to his/her new classroom. If you have any questions, please call us at 315-1560 or ask your classroom support leaders while checking in.

FSM Summer: Altitude Trampoline Park August 6 | $10 Meet at 6:30 pm at the Barn and return at 9:30 pm.

FSM Summer: High School Lake Day August 9 | Free! Meet at the Barn at 9 am. Bring a sack lunch, signed waiver form and all things needed for a day at the lake. We’ll go to Lake Ouachita and return about 6 pm.

FSM Echo Kickoff August 20, 6:30–8 pm | Echo is our large-group midweek service for students 7th-12th grade. Join us for our back to school kickoff and enjoy some hangout time, praise and worship, and a time to hear Biblical teaching from our FSM Pastor. For info, contact Zach at zmartin@fellowshiponline.com.

Employment Opportunity: Child Care We need part-time workers starting this fall, Tuesday and Thursdays, 9 am–noon and Wednesdays, 6–8:30 pm. Email benton@fellowshiponline.com.

MISSIONSSherri Cathey Seasons of Service Event Join us in collecting back-to-school supplies and packaging them for kids in our community. Sherri began this ministry and we’d like to remember her by making this a yearly tradition. Part 1: Get a list of needed school supplies at the Connection Center. Shop and bring the supplies back to the Connection Center by August 3. Part 2: Join us Saturday, August 9, 10-11:30 am in the multipurpose room/FSK Wing to assemble the supplies for drop-off.

Backyard Barbecue August 17, invite your neighbors to join us! Following second service—we’ll grill burgers and dogs and have fun activities for the kids.

EPIC 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 mid September.

BENTON

THIS MONTH AT FELLOWSHIP HIGHLIGHTS SPLASH BASH WILD RIVER COUNTRY August 24, 2 pm–Closing | Fellowship Kids invites you to kick off the ministry year with a splash! Enjoy a day of fun with the whole family and stick around for a special performance by the Riptide worship team. Tickets/Wristbands are $5 per person and can be purchased Sundays at our FSK Check-In Desk.

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP LEADER LAUNCH August 23, 9 am–noon | Small group leaders from all campuses are meeting on our Little Rock campus in the Warehouse for a fun, inspirational event. You will hear details about the upcoming year and receive training to help you be an even better leader this year. Register at fellowshiponline.com/events. Please register for child care by August 19.

JOIN A D GROUP D Groups are small groups of men and women who meet weekly to connect, grow as disciples, and live out the mission of our church. To learn more about our groups and how to get connected, stop by the Connection Center.

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP

Fellowship Women Fall Preview Whether you are a stay at home mom or work at the office, we have something to help you connect with other women and grow as a disciple this fall. Email Dona Price at dprice@fellowshiponline.com to find out more about these events and studies: • Fall Gathering Sept 2, 7-8:30 pm | Mark your

calendars for a night of Scripture, worship, and vision, with the theme When Big Gets Small. This night is for women of all ages in our church and community.

• Understanding the Bible Tuesdays, Sept 9, 6:30 pm | Led by Kristi Merrick

• BLOOM (Building Legacy Out of Motherhood) Wednesdays, 9 am, starting Sept 10 | Led by Allison Herndon, for ages 20-99.

• Fall Retreat Sept 26-28 | Make plans to get away to the beautiful Shepherd of the Ozarks. You’ll deepen your relationships with other women and God. For info or to register, email dprice@fellowshiponline.com.

• Girls Night Out November 14

Interested in Being a D Group Leader? We’re looking for men and women who want to help others grow as followers of Jesus by leading D Groups. These small groups of adults meet weekly to help people connect, grow together and live out the mission of our church. If you are interested in learning more about this role and training that will happen this summer, email cabot@fellowshiponline.com.

Core Groups Core is a type of D Group made up of 4-5 men or women who meet with someone weekly more mature in the faith for 14-16 months. If you are interested in leading or joining one of these groups, email cabot@fellowshiponline.com.

Men’s 33 Begins Wednesday, Sept 24, 6-7:15 am | Join other men as we take a good look at authentic, biblical manhood as modeled by Jesus’ 33 years on earth.

FELLOWSHIP KIDSVolunteer Training August 16, 9–11 am | If you signed up to serve in Fellowship Kids for 2014-15, please plan on this important time of training. We still have several volunteer spots to fill in both services, so if you are interested or have questions, email bcrowley@fellowshiponline.com.

Fellowship Kids (FSK) Every Sunday morning at 9 and 11 am we offer age-specific classes filled with crazy-fun activities, caring teachers, and exciting music that will help children grow as disciples in the best way possible.

Promotion Sunday Sunday, August 17 | Please arrive early to help your child find their new classroom and meet their teachers. If you have any questions, email dprice@fellowshiponline.com.

Fifty6 As we finish up the summer, our 4th-6th graders will be walking through promises God makes throughout Scripture. We want our preteens to see God’s faithfulness so they can walk confidently in His grace.

Summer Playdate Tuesday, August 5, 8:30-10:30 am | Join other FSK parents and kiddos for a morning in the park. Richie Road Park

Employment Opportunity We’re looking for part-time child care workers this fall for Sunday & Tuesday evenings and also Wednesday mornings. For more information or to apply, email dprice@fellowshiponline.com.

Baby Dedications Sunday, October 5 | Baby Dedications are special moments as we celebrate families committing to raise their children in the Lord. We offer a class September 14 at 4pm for the October dedications. To register, email dprice@fellowshiponline.com.

FELLOWSHIP STUDENTSFellowship Students Summer Hey 7th-12th graders, email Austin Walker, at awalker@fellowshiponline.com to find out more about these events wrapping up the summer: •Secret Church August 1, 5 pm–midnight •Theology Thursday August 7, 7pm•The Plunge August 9-10 | Upcoming 7th-9th graders, $40

ECHO Kickoff August 27, 7-8:30 pm | ECHO is a midweek time of worship, teaching and connection for all 7-12th grade students. Join us as we kick off the 2014-15 year. Questions, email awalker@fellowshipcabot.com.

MISSIONSCabot Missions To find out about 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/missions.

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.

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP LEADER LAUNCH August 23, 9 am–12 pm in the Warehouse. If you’re leading a small group, this event is especially for you! Join us for a fun, inspirational time where you will hear details about the upcoming year and receive training to help you be an even better leader this year. Please register for child care by August 19. Learn more and register online at fellowshiponline.com/events.

NIGHT OF PRAYER Join us for a night of worship and prayer Monday, August 4, 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.

HUNTERS EDUCATION CLASSES The Station, 6:30-9 pm. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will offer a free hunter education course on Monday nights in August. You must attend all four classes and pass an exam to be certified. The course is open to all ages. To learn more and to register visit fellowshiponline.com/events.

WILLOW CREEK’S LEADERSHIP SUMMIT August 14-15 Fellowship is partnering with the Nehemiah Network and Saint Mark Baptist Church as a host site for the 2014 Global Leadership Summit. This event is a world-class leadership experience with more than 190,000 participants around the world. We invite you to be part of this opportunity to grow as a Christ-centered leader. Visit fellowshiponline.com/events.

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 encounter God’s grace in our need. Newcomers are welcome weekly. Summer schedule: August 5-19 GROUPS ONLY.

Marriage Groups Discipleship in the context of marriage.

Encounter the transforming power of God’s grace in our everyday marital needs through discussion groups and studies.

Personal Groups Struggle with self-righteousness? Pornography?

Pride? Alcoholism? Encounter the transforming power of God’s grace in your everyday need.

Financial Groups Financial Peace University (FPU) presents biblical,

practical steps to get from where you are to where you’ve dreamed you could be. FPU membership workbook can be purchased at our bookstore for $100. The bookstore is open during ReNew.

Support Groups After the Locusts This group is for women who have

experienced a husband’s betrayal by persistent use of pornography or marital infidelity.

DivorceCare is a video seminar support group conducted by people who understand what you’re experiencing. To register for this class email care@fellowshiponline.com.

GriefShare This 13-week support group is for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

Healing Heartbreak After Abortion Eight-week study for those who have suffered the pain of abortion.

Parents of Prodigals For those who are struggling with teen and adult children who are making poor life decisions.

CancerEMS For those suffering or care-giving in the midst of catastrophic illness.

Foster and Adoptive Families Families waiting, fostering or adopting can sign up for a D Group with other foster and adoptive families. To join a D Group or find out about other events for foster and adoptive families, email thrive@fellowshiponline.com.

Empowered to Connect This class will equip and support foster and adoptive families as they parent kids from hard places.

ReNew groups begin August 26. Sign up for groups and child care at fellowshiponline.com/renew.

MISSIONS

Short-Term Mission Trips Many of those who have traveled abroad have returned from their trips. If you know any of them, ask about their experience and how God used them to make disciples across the world.

The CALL Info Meeting August 25, 6:30-8 pm | Learn how you can serve the foster children and families of Lonoke County by serving with The CALL, either as a volunteer or training as a foster home. Informational Meeting is at Grace Baptist in Scott.

CABOT (continued)

MISSIONS: AT HOME & ACROSS THE WORLD

LOCALWhy I’m Going to Prison by Jason Duncan

For almost a decade Fellowship volunteers have been going into prisons to proclaim the freedom of the Gospel to men and women who have found themselves bound by consequences of their actions.

We’re also engaged in helping these men and women re-enter the community through Hidden Creek Opportunity Center. Through this faith-based discipleship program, men and women develop skills necessary for life free from crime and addiction.

There are very few innocent men and women in prison. These are the reasons we give our time and resources to them:

Jesus said we would. Matthew 25:36. I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me. We have brothers and sisters who have not come to faith yet, and what we do for the least of them, we do for Jesus.

It’s strategic. Prison ministry touches on everything that touches God’s heart, and therefore our hearts as well. We care about personal and community transformation for the glory of God, and nowhere are these needed more than among the incarcerated.

It bears fruit. Not only do we give our time and resources to them, but they give right back. Hidden Creek residents volunteer at Renew, contribute at work and in the community and most importantly, chase after God.

Because we are them. Our sin and crimes may look different, but the ultimate result wouldn’t have been different without God’s grace.

I volunteer with the Prison Ministry for a very personal reason. Five years ago I was one of those inmates being exposed to the principles of Biblical manhood for the first time. This ministry radically altered my life. I go to those prisons because He sent someone to me.

GLOBALThe House Lights Faded Ever So Delicately by Scott Fitzgerald

The house lights faded ever so delicately, somehow mirroring the very vulnerable state of every heart. With tears streaming down his face, a fervent proclaimer of the Gospel showered those sitting in the auditorium in the grace of Jesus, unpacking how such a kind and merciful King was due all the worship that a rebellious creation could muster. As part of a redeemed creation, it was now our calling as the church to take the Gospel of Jesus into all the earth, as far as the curse of sin was found. Quietly he closed his Bible and exited the stage. There I sat, arms around my knees, head buried, lights dimmed, and heart broken. He may have exited as a lamb; yet, his words rang through my soul like the roar of a lion through the plains of a silent African night.

For 16 years, I have wondered if the Lord would ever allow me to take the rescuing message of the Gospel to the Middle East, an area of the world largely deprived of access to the Gospel due to what has historically been a nonexistent church planting movement … until now. On August 1, a team of eight will depart from Fellowship and head to Punjab, India to partner with the For All Mankind Movement (FAMM), a ministry dedicated to planting churches among the marginalized migrant workers of India. We will share the good news of Jesus in the form of stories with churches that FAMM has planted. As the area is less than one-percent Christian, it is our hope and prayer that Jesus would welcome many into His kingdom, furthering a church planting movement by the people of India. We desire for the people of India to see the gracious message that Jesus saves, spread throughout all the country. Pray for us. We deeply covet your prayers.

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