Keeping you informed and connected
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
As we step into Black History Month, we think it is important for us to remember the many contributions Black men and women have made to advancing the Gospel and the building of Jesus’ Kingdom here on earth, especially within the Church. One movement that often comes to mind is the Azusa Street Revival. If you are unfamiliar, the Azusa Street Revival refers to a series of revival meetings that began in Los Angeles in 1906. The revival centered at 312 Azusa Street and was led primarily by William J. Seymour, an African American Holiness preacher and the son of formerly enslaved parents. Seymour was known not only for his preaching but also for his deep humility, prayerfulness, and Christlike character. Those who knew him described his life as marked by devotion to Jesus and a shepherd’s heart for people.
Historically, the Azusa Street Revival is often associated with an emphasis on the work of the Holy Spirit. While conversations about spiritual gifts can sometimes be debated across different church traditions, I think there is another profoundly important and often overlooked aspect of this movement that deserves attention. In an era marked by lynchings, Jim Crow laws, and strict racial segregation, Azusa Street became a place where believers of different backgrounds gathered to worship together. African American, White, Latino, Asian American, and Native American Christians worshiped side by side in a way that was virtually unheard of at the time. Eyewitnesses of the revival famously said that “the color line was washed away in the blood of Jesus.” There were no preferences given for race, age, or social status. Leadership and participation crossed racial lines, unified not by culture or comfort, but by a shared devotion to Christ.
While much of the world worked hard to divide and segregate people, William J. Seymour believed the Gospel was bigger than the lines society tried to draw. He believed the work of God was not confined by race, background, or human hierarchy. Through his faithfulness, courage, and leadership, believers were given a glimpse of what the Church could look like when centered fully on Jesus. Out of that unity came one of the fastest-growing Christian movements in the world, impacting churches across nations and cultures. But even more importantly, it reflected something deeply biblical.
Scripture tells us that one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. The picture of heaven we are given is one where people from every tribe, tongue, and nation worship together before God’s throne. Through faithful leaders like William J. Seymour, the Church was offered a small but powerful glimpse of that heavenly reality here on earth. That is a story worth celebrating during Black History Month. Not simply because of history, but because it reminds us of the kind of Church Christ is still forming today.
Good God Good Grace, Derek McClardy NMC Student Pastor
Passover Seder
Tuesday, March 31 | 6:00-9:00pm
Barrett & Sewell Mill Campus
Due to last year's overwhelming response and a sold-out venue, NMC is pleased to announce that we will host a Passover Seder again, this time at both campuses. This traditional dinner is attended by many Jewish families and communities. It is a moment to celebrate the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Hebrew word Seder means “order.” The Passover meal follows a set order of particular foods, prayers, and songs. So, why would a believer participate in the Passover meal?
Paul writes to the Church in Corinth that Jesus is our Passover Lamb, sacrificed for us (1 Corinthians 5:7). As believers, we can see that the Seder carries a New Testament meaning related to Jesus the Messiah. The Passover is a wonderful picture of Jesus’ atonement and deliverance of His people. As the Last Supper was a Passover meal, one may gain a deeper understanding of the events leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Join us at Barrett Campus as we, once again, partner with Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS), and DTS President, Dr. Mark Yarbrough, and the DTS Director of Jewish Studies, Rabbi Vladimir Pikman. Our Sewell Mill Campus will host Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Beth Hallel, Messianic Jewish Synagogue. Enjoy the night as we are led in a Passover Seder on Tuesday, March 31, from 6:00-9:00pm.
Children in Kindergarten and older are encouraged to attend the Seder with their families. The cost is $25 per person (including adults, teens, and children). Childcare is available for preschoolers and under. Space and childcare are limited for this event. Registration is open now. Got questions? Email Dana at dmorelly@northmetro.org.
Easter Weekend Sneak Peek
April 2-5
Easter Weekend is one of the most meaningful and exciting times at NMC! Mark your calendars and start inviting friends and family to join us at one of our identical services. Find our service times below and keep an eye out for more Easter details in the months ahead!
Barrett Campus
Thursday, April 2 | 7:00pm (No NMC Kids) Friday, April 3 | 7:00pm (No NMC Kids)
Saturday, April 4 | 4:00pm (NMC Kids + Festival)
Sunday, April 5 | 9:15am (NMC Kids)
Sunday, April 5 | 11:15am (NMC Kids)
Sewell Mill Campus
Saturday, April 4 | 4:00pm (NMC Kids + Festival)
Sunday, April 5 | 9:15am (NMC Kids)
Sunday, April 5 | 11:00am (NMC Kids)
Charles Abrams
Re:generation Highlight Story Charles Abrams
Hello, my name is Charles Abrams, I have a new life in Christ, and I'm in recovery from alcoholism and resentment. I grew up in a traditional family, we attended church regularly, and I was baptized at 12, though I didn't understand Christianity until later. My upbringing was strict; my parents controlled everything my sister and I consumed from the outside world. Discipline was swift, sometimes involving yelling or physical punishment. My parents didn't drink, and alcohol was not permitted in our home. While in high school, I felt smothered by my parents' constant need for control, and this led to feelings of resentment and struggles with loneliness and depression.
College brought parties and alcohol, which helped me feel less disconnected and eased my social anxiety. However, I became more reliant on alcohol and neglected my grades. I couldn’t see how drinking negatively affected every aspect of my life and my relationships.
After college, I met my wife, the best decision I ever made. Though our early years of marriage were challenging due to my drinking, we were making it work. Outside of my marriage, I was doing a pretty good job of hiding my drinking from others. I was managing to hold my life together until it just became too much to bear.
In July 2000, I realized I couldn't continue. My work suffered, I neglected my family, we had no money, and I felt depressed. I prayed for a clean heart and a renewed spirit, seeking God's help. I met with my pastor and recommitted my life to God, attending AA meetings and staying sober one day at a time for 25 years now!
With a sober mind, I grew closer to God and found myself becoming more authentic. When we found North Metro Church, I wanted to help other alcoholics, and I was asked to help launch an AA program, but COVID shut it down. I was discouraged because I knew I wanted to help other men get free from the chains of their
addiction. In 2023, I was asked to join the Re:generation pilot group. I was reluctant at first because I thought AA was the only way to get sober. I soon discovered that Re:generation was a program that addressed a wide range of sin struggles, not just alcohol. The steps were similar to AA, but more effective because God is the central focus of the ministry. What I quickly realized was that my relationship with God had stalled, and I needed to open my heart to what the Good Lord had for me. Upon beginning Re:gen, I focused on my selfishness as my primary sin struggle, but soon realized resentment was my core issue, a learned behavior that I used for years as a defense mechanism.
In Step 1, I admitted I was powerless over managing my life, using past events as excuses for not achieving goals. Step 4 revealed excuses in many areas. I blamed all my failures on others, and this led to resentment. Step 5 involved confessing to those I had wronged. Step 9, making amends, is an ongoing process. I visited my father's grave and asked for his forgiveness for the pain I caused him. I also met with my sister to seek forgiveness for my role in creating distance between us. In addition, I expressed my love and appreciation for my wife and daughters, and asked them to forgive me for my past mistakes and poor choices.
After commencing from Re:generation, I found myself committed to living out the steps every day. And despite my social anxieties, the Lord has given me the opportunity and desire to serve as a Re:gen Step Group Tablesetter. I feel a deep connection with the guys in my group, and I’m thankful to have a front row seat to watch the Lord do great works in and through this group of brave men.
Two years into my Re:generation journey, I can joyfully say I'm grateful for my wife and daughters, and for the peace of knowing God is in control. Through God, we can navigate life's challenges in a way that honors Him.
Re:generation meets on Wednesdays at 7:00pm at the Barrett Campus. Join us on Wednesdays in the Theater. Visit northmetro.org/regeneration to learn more.
Equipping ministry leaders for the future Church. NMC Residency Program
As carriers of the Gospel, we hope our engagement with our local and global communities is so significant that, if NMC ceased to exist, we would be missed. As we carry out our mission to help people find and follow Jesus, we want to help close a gap: a shortage of ministry leaders for the future Church.
To help equip the called, NMC partners with Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) to offer ministry leadership training opportunities through a residency program. Residents of this 2-year program are full-time Master of Arts in Christian Leadership (MACL) students and part-time church staff, thus receiving tangible professional ministry experience and a formal seminary education. Our vision is for this program to become a platform to equip future ministry leaders to help people find and follow Jesus.
Students in the MACL program will demonstrate a general knowledge of the Bible by studying all 66 books. They will build a Christian theological framework they can articulate and support, and develop a biblical philosophy of Christian leadership.
Who is the Residency Program for? The Residency Program is intended for college graduates who believe they have been called to vocational ministry.
What can students in the residency program expect?
» Director-level experience working with one of NMC’s staff members.
» Pursuit of Dallas Theological Seminary’s Master of Arts in Christian Leadership (MACL) of 66 hours over 2 years
» Hourly rate of $20 with an average of 25-30 weekly hours
» 50% of tuition costs paid by NMC
Rebecca Ross is our Curriculum Pastor who provides leadership over our Residency Program.
What do our residents have to say about the program? Sure, we think our residency program is excellent, but we want you to hear what our residents think. Review their responses to a few questions, then visit northmetro.org/residency-program for details on how to apply for the 2026-2027 school year.
Q: What caught your eye about applying to the NMC/DTS Residency Program?
Sophia: I’ve watched several friends complete similar residency programs over the years while earning their degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. Seeing firsthand how valuable, formative, and lifegiving their experience was made a deep impression on me. It showed me the kind of growth this program fosters and sparked my desire to be part of it.
Ben: The brevity of the program! In the past, I attempted to do seminary at my own pace. I was crawling along, not going into debt, but realized that it would’ve been a seven-year (or longer with additions to my family) pursuit to complete a 90+ hour Master of Divinity program. NMC offers a 50% tuition reimbursement each semester, making it more affordable. DTS is an accredited name in theological training. With a broad range of denominations, DTS provides a well-rounded, biblically rooted education. The professors have challenged me in a healthy way. My faith is stronger because of the wrestling I’ve done with my own beliefs through the teachings.
Q: Were you nervous about applying to such a rigorous program?
Ben: Yes and no. A lot of prayer went into the decision my family and I made. I understood God was leading me to further my education. It was a calling he had made evident in many ways. Managing a full course load alongside other responsibilities made me nervous. It is something I still fear. The only way to manage the nerves is to take it day by day, in prayer, and to depend more and more on God to carry me through.
Olivia: I’m not sure I ever stopped being nervous; seminary is nerve-wracking even when you aren’t working, but when God places a call on your life, he always makes a way and equips you for the journey. One of my favorite sayings is “God doesn’t call the equipped, he equips the called.” It’s something I often remind myself when I feel inadequate or nervous.
Q: What are the most valuable lessons you have learned as a resident?
Sophia: I’ve learned so much about what it means to be a healthy leader and a supportive teammate. It’s easy to slip into the mindset of trying to accomplish everything on your own, but this residency has shown me how much of the beauty of Kingdom work is missed when you don’t invite others into it. God has uniquely gifted the people around
us, and partnering with them not only strengthens the work but also deepens our own growth and joy in ministry.
Ben: Theology is for everyone. If we are reading the Bible or having a Gospel conversation, we are engaging in theology. Do not be intimidated by the word “Theology.” Studying the Bible and its importance to us has been significant. The Bible is inspired, inerrant, authoritative, sufficient, and has canonicity, meaning it has been fixed and closed. Each of those terms carries so much weight. Finally, we can’t take ourselves too seriously, even though we are studying such a rich object that will further our faith.
Olivia: “It’s not about me” would probably be the lesson God has been revealing to me over the last year of my life, and residency has been an extension of that. If you want to be humbled, then seminary is the place for you. You’ll be challenged in ways that make you grow, even in a single semester.
Q: What is a typical week for you as an NMC resident?
Sophia: A typical week for me usually includes about three days in the office, followed by Sunday mornings at our Sewell Mill Campus, helping to lead and support our Guest Services Teams. My office days vary a lot—I might be planning social media content, preparing weekly communication for our Tablesetters, making sure things are ready for Sunday morning, sitting in meetings as we get ready for weekend services, or even doing a bit of creative planning to help create some fun things for big weekends like Christmas and Easter. Every week looks a little different, but that’s part of what makes the residency so fun and meaningful.
Ben: A typical week begins with Sunday worship, greeting, and serving our members. It may look like volunteering to teach in our student ministry, praying with members, and encouraging them. Monday through Thursday, I meet with my director to review my responsibilities for the week. It usually involves serving alongside other amazing people from various departments within the church—brainstorming or vision-casting with fellow ministry directors. I provide oversight and manage the Prayer Team. I disciple fellow men who are hungry for more than just Sundays. I’ve even taken a trip with the mobilization team to understand how NMC can expand its reach with other Gospel-centered ministries.
Q: What has been the best surprise about being an NMC resident?
Sophia: One of the best surprises has been realizing that God has gifted me to carry a much bigger load than I ever imagined. At first, everything felt overwhelming— new responsibilities, new rhythms, new expectations. But over time, I’ve seen how God meets me in those moments and stretches my capacity in really meaningful ways. I’ve learned that I’m capable of more than I thought, not because of my own strength, but because of His faithfulness and the support of the people around me. It’s been both humbling and encouraging to watch Him grow me in places I didn’t even know I needed growth.
Olivia: The best surprise would likely be how well I fit in with my fellow students in seminary and the other residents at NMC. I was very fearful when I started the program that I was not intelligent or well-versed enough to be part of it. Now I know that we all have those thoughts and feelings. It makes everything feel a lot less lonely. I also have so many amazing coworkers who have been in my place at one point—they are always so willing to help me when I’m feeling confused or stuck. I’m incredibly grateful for all of the support available to me.
Q: Would you recommend this residency to other college graduates, and why?
Sophia: Absolutely. I would highly recommend this residency to other college graduates. It’s not only a strong stepping stone for anyone pursuing vocational ministry, but it has also connected me with incredible people across many different fields who have helped shape me as both a leader and a follower of Jesus. The academic rigor is a significant part of the program, but the relationships I’ve formed along the way have been just as valuable. Truly one of the greatest gifts of this experience.
Olivia: Definitely. Looking at it from a purely logical perspective, DTS is an accredited institution, so gaining a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership from DTS will only help to grow your resume, even if long-term vocational ministry isn’t what you end up doing for the rest of your life. It is an incredibly rare opportunity to pursue a master's degree, be employed, and have half of your tuition covered. As a resident, you will gain significant emotional and spiritual support and an incredible family of coworkers. If you’re looking to deepen your faith, your relationship with Christ, and your leadership, and to gain a world of support, I highly encourage you to apply.
Connect & Grow
WELCOME HOME
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15 | 12:15PM
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22 | 12:15PM
Welcome Home is designed to help you learn about everything that makes up North Metro Church and provide you with next steps on how you can become part of our family. Visit northmetro.org/events to learn more and sign up.
GROUPS
At NMC, we genuinely believe we are better together. Therefore, we encourage everyone to circle up with others in a group. We have three different types of groups you can join. Connection Groups meet over shared interests such as hiking, board games, or movies; Community Groups meet for
fellowship, prayer, and Bible study; and Care Groups assist anyone walking through difficulty or a life transition. If you want to join a Connection Group, Community Group, or Care Group, or start your own group, check out northmetro.org/groups.
TABLESETTERS
When we serve others, we set the table for them to experience God’s grace. That’s why, around here, we call our volunteers Tablesetters. Our goal is for everyone to experience the joy of serving others as a Tablesetter and serve somewhere within our church. Regardless of your schedule, experience, or gifting, there’s a fulfilling place for you to serve here.
Visit northmetro.org/serve to browse opportunities and take the next step to serve.
BAPTISMS
We offer classes for elementary-aged children, students, and adults quarterly. After attending a class, one of our pastors will meet with you or your child to discuss the class content.
If you’re ready to take this step in your faith journey, we invite you to sign up for our next adult baptism class on Sunday, March 8, at our Barrett Campus. For more information about our beliefs on baptism and to sign up for a class, visit northmetro.org/baptism.
Discipleship & Marriage
RE:GENERATION
BARRETT CAMPUS | WEDNESDAYS | 7:00PM
Navigating day-to-day life can be challenging. Whether you find yourself wrestling with anxiety, stuck in hopelessness, uncertain how to break an addiction, feeling lost, or ruled by pride, anger, or fear, you are not alone. We all have struggles to overcome, and we all experience brokenness. But the good news is that we have a God who loves us so much and desires to help us find healing and freedom! God has a plan for you, and through His Word, He offers us a path to find new life in Christ. Re:generation equips us with tools to live the way God has called us to live in meaningful fellowship with Him and others.
Change is possible! In John 10:10, Jesus says, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” We invite you to experience the abundant life that Jesus desires for you. Join us at the Barrett Campus on any Wednesday at 7:00pm in the Theater. Learn more at northmetro.org/regeneration.
RE|ENGAGE
Re|engage is a marriage enrichment ministry designed for couples ready to invest time and energy into building a stronger marriage. Through a mix of largegroup teaching and small-group discussion, you and your spouse are challenged and encouraged with practical ways to apply the Gospel of Jesus to your marriage. Couples are discipled and equipped to grow in their walk with Christ and their marriages by studying and applying biblical principles within a small group structure. We offer Re|engage twice a year, beginning in August and January. To learn more, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
FOUNDATION
The first few years of marriage can be exciting yet challenging, but they also offer a chance to build healthy patterns into a marriage at a formative stage. Our Foundation class is open to those who have been married for three years or less and exists to establish couples for a lifetime of oneness in the context of a Christ-centered community.
Join us for food, fellowship, and curriculum designed for your stage of life! We offer
Foundation twice a year, beginning in August and January. To learn more, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
MERGE
BARRETT CAMPUS | MONDAY, MARCH 2
Strong, healthy marriages start long before the wedding. To build a marriage that lasts and gets off to a great start, we encourage all engaged couples to participate in Merge, our premarital discipleship class. Merge is an eight-week class and is available to those who regularly attend NMC and are engaged. To learn more, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
MERGE 2.0
Have you previously been married, are in a new relationship, or are considering marriage seriously? In Merge 2.0, we have a specific curriculum to help you lay the foundation for a healthy second marriage. Through the workbook content and a mentor couple who have navigated the dynamics of a second marriage, Merge 2.0 will give you the tools to help you decide if you're ready and, if so, how to build a biblical union with each other. To learn more, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
Care
PRAYER
Prayer is powerful. It's one of the most important things we can do as a church. Our staff and leadership would love to come alongside you, fight for you in whatever difficulty you may be experiencing, and celebrate any answered prayers. To share your prayer requests, visit northmetro.org/prayer.
HOME REPAIR ASSISTANCE
NMC has a faithful group of men looking to assist widows, single moms, and other ladies in our church. These men are skilled in most areas of basic home repairs, including plumbing, electrical, and carpentry; however, they are unable to take on major renovations or projects that require county permitting. If you are a single woman in need of assistance with home maintenance or repairs, please visit northmetro.org/care to submit your request.
STEPHEN MINISTRY
Stephen Ministry is a one-on-one care ministry that supports those experiencing difficult times. Stephen Ministers are members of our NMC community who are well-trained in encouraging others who are enduring painful times, such as the loss of a loved one, a marriage, a job, or a health issue. If you are facing any of life's difficult circumstances, please consider using a Stephen Minister to help bear your burdens.
FOSTER & ADOPTION SUPPORT GROUP BRUNCH
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1 | 11:00AM-12:00PM
Scripture urges believers to care for orphans in our community. One way we
do this at NMC is to come around families participating in foster care or adoption. Additionally, this group provides a place to find support and encouragement from others who understand these specific challenges. This group meets several times throughout the year to foster fellowship among these special families.
Whether you're currently fostering, in the midst of an adoption process, or have been part of this special community of parents for years, we'd love for you to join us for fellowship and a delicious brunch on Sunday, February 1. To register, please visit northmeto.org/events.
INFERTILITY & LOSS SUPPORT
BARRETT CAMPUS | MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9 | 7:00-9:00PM
When God calls our hearts to grow our families, He never promises it will be easy, but He does promise to lead when we are lost. Take refuge in knowing you’re not alone. If you struggle with infertility or have experienced miscarriage or infant loss, there’s a place for you.
WOMEN’S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 | 12:15-2:30PM
Cancer hits with a terrible punch, whether it’s you, a spouse, parent, sibling, child, or friend. We can't take you out of this storm, but we can walk alongside you and hold you up when the weight is too heavy. We can be that safe place where you can let all your feelings fall. We can have the honor of praying continually for you and your family. We can be that safe group of ladies who get it without explanation or apologies; we get it all.
If cancer has impacted you in any way, we strongly encourage you to connect with Diana Pethel, the leader of NMC’s Cancer Support Group, at 678.357.2933. We also hope you will consider joining the group on the second Sunday of every month. This group will be a helpful resource, offering a supportive community of courageous and resilient women who have discovered the strength of trusting in God, knowing that He is reliable and trustworthy.
BEAUTY FOR ASHES SUPPORT GROUP
BARRETT CAMPUS | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5 | 7:00-9:00PM
Beauty for Ashes is a confidential group designed to encourage and give hope to women whose husbands struggle with sexual addiction. We understand the devastation of a husband's betrayal; however, our goal is not to stay in this place of wounding but to seek the Lord for healing and hope.
For more information or to sign up for any of our Care Ministries, visit our Care page at northmetro.org/care.
UPCOMING FOR YOU
MAN CHURCH
MARCH 3 | 7:00-9:00PM
In a world that pulls in every direction, faithfulness matters. Join us for a night with Crawford Loritts, pastor, author, and speaker known for his biblical insight and practical guidance for life. This spring, we’re keeping things simple and focusing on what matters most—connection and the truth of God’s Word. To register, visit northmetro.org/events.
WOMEN'S GATHERING
MARCH 17 | 7:00-9:00PM
When life feels busy and unsettled, we need to return to what grounds us. This evening is an invitation to do just that—together. Join us for a night of laughter, connection, worship, and encouragement as we reflect on what it means to be rooted and built up in Christ as we hear from our guest speaker, Beth Cunningham. Come as you are. Bring a friend. Come ready to be refreshed and reminded that He is our firm foundation. Registration is $10. To register, visit northmetro.org/events.
BIBLICAL ENCOUNTER TOUR: ITALY
OCTOBER 5-12
Over the last few years, North Metro Church has had the joy of partnering with Faith-Based Expeditions to lead biblical encounter tours to Israel and Greece. This year, our Lead Pastor, Rob McDowell, will guide a group on a remarkable journey through Italy. Together, you’ll freshly experience the richness of Scripture as you walk in the physical and spiritual
footsteps of Paul and the Apostles. To learn more about this unforgettable trip, visit northmetro.org/events.
NMC KIDS
BABY DEDICATION
BARRETT CAMPUS
CLASS | SUNDAY, MARCH 1 | 9:15-10:00AM
DEDICATION | SUNDAY, MAY 3 | 3:00PM
The Baby Dedication Class will prepare you to participate in our next Baby Dedication Service, which will be on Sunday, May 3, at 3:00pm at our Barrett Campus. This family-friendly service is an intentional environment, with the message and worship focused on celebrating life and your child's dedication to God’s teaching and instruction. If you want more information on dedicating your child or signing up, visit northmetro.org/events.
ELEMENTARY BAPTISM CLASS
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAY, MARCH 22 | 9:15-10:00AM
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, APRIL 26 | 9:15-10:00AM
This 45-minute class is designed for you and your child to attend together. If your elementary-aged child has already taken the step of salvation, this class is the perfect next step. For more information on the baptism process, visit northmetro.org/events.
SPECIAL NEEDS PARENT BRUNCH
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 | 11:00AM-12:00PM
This is an opportunity for parents who have children with special needs to get together
and form community. Pastries and coffee will be provided during the 11:00am service. Register at northmetro.org/events.
GAME DAY DRESS UP
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8
Game Day Dress Up is the perfect opportunity to blend comfort with team pride through game-day apparel. Whether you're rocking a classic jersey, a cozy hoodie, or a casual T-shirt with your team's logo, the key to this Sunday is to show your spirit for your favorite College or NFL football team while staying comfortable. No matter your style, the goal is to celebrate the big day in kids ministry with some fun. Game on!
PAJAMA SUNDAY
BARRETT & SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAY, MARCH 8
It's time for one of our NMC Kids favorites— Pajama Sunday! Kids and parents always love an excuse to wear pajamas to church, so why not devote a whole morning to it? No matter where you're joining us from, all you have to do is roll out of bed, brush your teeth, and maybe brush your hair. Don’t forget to tag @wearenorthmetro and @nmc_kids on Instagram to share your photos with us.
SPECIAL NEEDS RESPITE NIGHT
BARRETT CAMPUS | FRIDAY, MARCH 27 | 5:30-8:30PM
NMC will host its tenth respite night for families of children with special needs and their siblings. This event will allow NMC to serve not only kids and students but also their caregivers. Parents will have a chance for a night out while their children will get to have a night of fun on the NMC campus.
AND YOUR FAMILY
Are you interested in serving our families in the special needs ministry for this respite event? Visit our events page to view a comprehensive list of serving opportunities for this special evening. The deadline to sign up to serve or attend this event is Friday, March 20. Sign up and learn more at northmetro.org/events.
NMC KIDS TABLE TALKER
JANUARY/FEBRUARY DISCIPLESHIP TOOL
The NMC Kids Table Talker is a discipleship tool developed by the NMC Kids team to help families connect intentionally around the dinner table. The activities and devotions you'll find in the Table Talker are based on the Gospel Project curriculum that we use in our classrooms. This means you can connect what you do at home with what your kids do in their NMC classroom. But it's not all curriculum; you'll also find silly games, get-to-know-you questions, and family challenges. You are your child's first teacher and the first person to disciple your
child. We hope the NMC Kids Table Talker is just the tool you need to take your family relationships to the next level. Grab yours today in NMC Kids, and when you finish, bring it back for a special prize!
NMC STUDENTS
MIDDLE SCHOOL MORNINGS
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAYS | 9:15AM & 11:00AM
6-8th grade students are invited to join us upstairs in the Student HQ at our 9:15am and 11:00am services for Bible study and community.
NMC STUDENTS BAPTISM CLASS
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1 | 11:00-11:30AM
Parents, if your student is considering baptism, we’d love to partner with you in this exciting step of faith. During the second service on Sunday, February 1, we’re offering a baptism class specifically designed for students. In this class, they’ll learn what baptism means, why it matters, and how to share their story of faith. You can sign your student up at northmetro.org/events.
DWELL WKND 2026
FRIDAY, APRIL 17-SUNDAY, APRIL 19
This year, we’re stepping away from our traditional Spring Retreat and inviting students into DWELL WKND, a slower, more intentional weekend focused on dwelling with God through prayer, solitude, and Scripture reading. Rather than rushing from moment to moment, students will experience a calm, worshipheavy environment designed to create space
Pine Cove’s incredible summer day camp program, is returning to North Metro Church! Camp will be hosted at our Barrett Campus June 1-5 and at our Sewell Mill Campus July 20-24. Pine Cove has been impacting families since 1968, and we’d love for your child to experience this wildly popular camp that fills up with waiting lists across the country!
This weeklong camp is designed for rising 1st-6th graders for the 2026-2027 school year.
Each day runs from 9:00am4:00pm and includes a climbing wall, inflatables, water slides, team games, Bible studies, and
hilarious skits! Families are also invited to a special closing celebration on Friday at 4:00pm.
After five days with some of the most energetic and engaging college staff in the country, your child will head into summer encouraged, excited, and ready to grow in their faith. Campers will encounter Jesus through Bible study, worship, time with their counselor, and tons of unforgettable camp activities. Get ready for an amazing week at Pine Cove City!
for reflection, listening, and abiding with the Lord. High school students will head off campus to Camp Hope for a retreat experience, while middle school students will gather at North Metro Church for a meaningful, non-overnight weekend. The cost to attend is $160 for high school students and $65 for middle school students. Please note that registration prices will increase after February 15. To register or apply for a scholarship, visit northmetro.org/events.
NMC COLLEGE & YOUNG ADULTS (18-23)
COLLEGE NIGHTS
BARRETT CAMPUS | TUESDAYS | 6:45-9:00PM
College-age students and young adults (1823) join us on campus in the Theater for worship, dinner, community, time in God's word, and small groups. This time is for anyone and everyone, regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey; there is a place for you here. For more details, visit northmetro.org/college.
The cost for Pine Cove City is $319 per camper.
If your family needs financial assistance or would like more information, visit the Events page at northmetro.org. For additional questions, feel free to email our Kids Pastor, Nathan Woodward, at nwoodward@northmetro.org.
Registration is OPEN for our Sewell Mill Campus. The Barrett Campus is FULL! You can sign up today to attend Pine Cove City at Sewell Mill or join the waitlist for Barrett Campus.
Mobilization
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES
We engage with everyone in and outside of our circles in a way that if NMC ceased to exist, we, the body of Christ, would Be Missed.
CITY SERVE WEEK
FEBRUARY 15-21
Invest in the renewal of our city and love others at City Serve. City Serve Week is a week-long, short-term mission project in our city that will include multiple projects with varying start times, lengths, and locations. This church-wide event will allow NMC members to love others. You can serve our Mobilization and Serve partners through outreach projects, including sharing the Gospel, homeless outreach, landscaping, light construction, distributing food, and much more. Grab your family or a few friends, find an opportunity, and sign up at northmetro.org/events.
Be on the lookout for more details about summer opportunities for families, including Camp Grace and a trip to New Jersey.
LYDIA CIRCLE SEWS
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23 | BARRETT CAMPUS | 9:00AM
Did you know that girls in Africa miss days of school and/or work each month due to a lack of hygiene supplies? Many girls are forced to stay in their homes because of their monthly menstrual cycle, causing them to fall behind in school or go without earned wages. Though in the Western world, we cannot relate to this common challenge, there is an easy solution, and we can help!
A group of NMC women sew and assemble feminine hygiene kits that are sustainable, reusable products, which give African women the freedom to stay engaged in their everyday lives. These kits are then personally distributed to women in East Africa through NMC's mobilization partner, Lydia Circle Ministries. Lydia Circle has hand-delivered hundreds of these kits over the past several years!
Join us at our next Lydia Circle Sews event! There are plenty of ways to help without using a sewing machine, so don’t let a lack of sewing experience keep you from linking arms with NMC women to serve girls in Africa. Sign up to join us by visiting northmetro.org/serve.
CHARACTER EDUCATION MENTORING AT KENNESAW MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL
You can invest in the next generation by becoming a mentor to encourage students once a month at Kennesaw Mountain High School during the 2025-2026 school year. As a mentor, you'll help facilitate the social-emotional curriculum, Habitudes by Dr. Tim Elmore. This is an opportunity to engage students in the public school environment where they spend so much time, all while equipping them with tools for healthy leadership in their world and the world around them. Take the next step by emailing Jill Stewart at jstewart@ northmetro.org or check out the details at northmetro.org/serve.
SUPPORT
Why We Go: Preparing for Short-Term Mission Trips
As a new year begins, many of us are thinking about goals—getting healthier, spending time more intentionally, or stepping into something new. One goal that often goes unconsidered, but has the power to shape us deeply, is participating in a short-term mission trip.
At our church, missions flow directly from who we are and what we believe. Our mission is to help people find and follow Jesus. Our vision is to be missed. We believe we are called to be carriers of the Gospel— across the street and around the world.
WHY MISSIONS MATTER
Missions matter because they matter to God. Scripture tells us that “God so loved the world” (John 3:16), and the Great Commission calls us to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). While we live this out daily in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools, there is something uniquely powerful about stepping outside our comfort zones to see how God is at work around the world.
WHY WE GO THE WAY WE DO
Our primary global partner is Casa del Redentor in Panajachel, Guatemala. When we go, we are not going as saviors or experts. We go as learners. We go to support and encourage Guatemalans who are ministering faithfully to their own people. Our role is to come alongside what God is already doing—listening, serving, and offering support where invited.
This means our trips are not vacations or “Christian tourism.” They are intentional opportunities to serve with humility, to learn from others, and to grow in faith.
MORE THAN A TRIP: A DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEY
Choosing to go on a short-term mission trip is about far more than travel. It is a discipleship journey. When you say yes, you are stepping into a process designed to prepare your heart, your mind, and your team.
Each team meets 5-7 times before departure. During these gatherings, you will:
» Learn about the mission and the culture
» Understand the purpose and posture of short-term missions
» Build unity and trust with your team
» Pray together and grow spiritually together
This preparation is just as important as the trip itself. God often does some of His deepest work in us before we ever leave home.
THE ROLE OF SUPPORT RAISING
One of the biggest obstacles that keeps people from going is fear around support raising. It’s important to say clearly: support raising is biblical, meaningful, and deeply formative. We help you in this process.
Support raising:
» Invites others to be invested in what God is doing
» Builds a strong community of prayer around you
» Teaches you to trust God in new ways
» Gives people who cannot physically go a way to participate
» Encourages accountability and faith growth—for you and for your supporters
From Nehemiah to the Apostle Paul, Scripture shows us that God uses His people to provide for His mission. Raising support is not begging; it is inviting others into God’s work. And time and time again, we see God provide in incredible ways.
AN INVITATION
Short-term mission trips stretch us, grow us, and shape us. They help us see the world— and God—more clearly. They remind us that we are part of something far bigger than ourselves.
If you are prayerfully considering going, know this: God is already at work. It is a gift to join Him. And if you say yes, you won’t do it alone. You will be part of a team, a church family, and a shared calling to carry the Gospel—across the street and around the world.
WHAT’S NEXT?
We have several upcoming short-term mission opportunities throughout this year, including a medical mission trip to Guatemala in September. Looking ahead, we are also prayerfully exploring future opportunities in 2027, including trips with one of our partners to India and Kenya. The Kenya trip would include the meaningful opportunity to visit sponsored children through Compassion, allowing us to see firsthand how God is working through longterm partnerships.
If you are curious, discerning, or simply want to learn more, we would love to talk with you. Ask questions. Pray about it. Take a step toward what God might be inviting you into.
You can reach out to Meagan Vinson at mvinson@northmetro.org or stop by the new Mobilization Center for more information. Whether you are called to go, to send, or to pray, there is a place for you in God’s mission.
Ivan Mijango Casa del Redentor Director
An update from Ivan Mijango. Redeemer's House, or Casa del Redentor, is North Metro Church's international ministry in Panajachel, Guatemala.
The Question That Starts Every Year
Every February, when the school year begins in Guatemala, the children in the villages greet us with the same excited question: “Are we having the Christmas program again this year?” For many of them, Christmas is not only a celebration but the most anticipated moment of the entire year. Even months in advance, the excitement is real—proof that these moments stay deeply rooted in their hearts. This year, thanks to the faithful generosity of NMC and the mission team that traveled in December, we were once again able to bring joy, hope, and the message of Jesus to hundreds of children and families.
One of our greatest joys each Christmas is finding creative ways to teach the true meaning of the season—something that goes beyond presents, food, and celebration. This year, almost spontaneously, we decided to create a short Christmas skit. With very little time, we wrote a script, developed the characters, and built simple props. But we were missing something essential: the actors. That’s when the NMC team arrived—right on time. Their willingness to step in, rehearse, and perform brought the story to life in a way we could never have done on our own. The skit captured the attention of children and adults alike for the full ten minutes, and it delivered a clear and simple message that resonated deeply: Jesus wants to clean our hearts and make His home in us, if we allow Him to.
As the ministry continues to grow, we’ve learned how to organize our Christmas preparations more efficiently than ever. In just a few hours, we wrapped more than 250 gifts and packed 170 bags of food, all of which we distributed over three full days of outreach. Each child experienced the program in their own unique way. For some, the highlight was seeing Santa Claus—
wonderfully portrayed by our friend Mark Eberhard. For others, it was the Christmas-themed donuts, the hot dogs, or the gifts. But no matter what they enjoyed the most, each child walked away with a sense of joy that we pray will stay with them for a long time.
Many of the families we serve do not have the resources to celebrate Christmas in a traditional way. For them, this program is not just a fun event—it is a meaningful moment of connection, provision, and spiritual encouragement. This year, we added something special: for the first time, thanks to NMC’s beautifully crafted Christmas Guide (now fully translated into Spanish), families received a resource to help them prepare for Christmas together at home. This simple addition allowed parents and children to share time, reflection, and Scripture in the days leading up to Christmas—something many of them had never experienced before.
We are deeply grateful for every person who partners with CDR and helps us help people find and follow Jesus. Although the Christmas program in each village lasts only a short time, its impact continues long after the decorations are put away. In the following weeks, families tell us how much it meant to them, and children continue repeating the lessons they learned during the skit.
Just as the kids begin asking in February when the next Christmas program will be, I want to extend an invitation to you: consider joining us on one of the mission trips available throughout the year. Your presence, encouragement, and willingness to serve make a profound difference as we continue working to help people find and follow Jesus.
Thank you for your love, your prayers, and your kindness toward our ministry and the families we serve in Guatemala.
You have access to view and print giving history and year-end giving statements for tax purposes at your convenience through our giving platform, Church Center, on northmetro.org/give.
Once you're in Church Center:
1. Click on Give in the top right menu on your screen.
2. Click the blue My Giving button under the heading My Information.
3. In the menu on the left side of your screen, select Donation History.
4. Select the Year from the drop-down menu.
5. Select Download , and a report will be generated that includes all necessary information for tax purposes. (The statement can be saved or printed on your device.)
YTD December 2025
Income: 5,077,370.05 Expense: 3,835,449.53 Over(under): 1,241,920.52
JOIN US FOR
We have a new favorite “problem” right now! Sundays are full—and we’re so grateful, but we want to keep making room for new people taking a first step toward Jesus. That’s where Thursday Night Church comes in.
It’s the same sermon and worship you love, just in a smaller, more relaxed setting (plus free coffee). Right now, Thursdays are lighter, which creates space for our growing Sunday crowds.
A simple shift can make a big difference. Together we can keep saying, “Welcome home.”