Keeping you informed and connected
A Letter from Matt Sewell Mill Campus Pastor
It's that time of year.
We hear the sizzle of the burgers on the grill, the crack of the bat at a baseball game, the snap of a crisp cold soda opening, the roar and crash of fireworks in the night sky, and the splash and laugh of the kids at the pool as the faint scent of sunscreen lingers in the air all around us, creating a cacophony of sound and smells that awaken you to that beautiful truth.
Summer is here.
Having given that overwhelmingly and unnecessarily long sensory poetic prelude, let's talk about summer at NMC for real.
We hope that you all are enjoying a season of slowing down, rest, and getting out in God's brilliant and beautiful creation. We hope that you have safe travels for whatever summer trips or vacations you may be taking. And we hope that you are lovingly leveraging this increased time with your friends, neighbors, and families to be a light and a blessing: helping people find and follow Jesus through your actions, your invitation to church, and your words of truth and testimony.
Enjoy this season, and do not let it go to waste. Invite that neighbor you see at the pool to go to church with you. Tell that parent next to you in the bleachers about your involvement at your church and the beauty and blessings thereof. And tell your family—both near and extended—about how the LORD is moving and working in your life.
These are beautiful opportunities summer affords us.
Summer also affords us the opportunity to invite our friends, neighbors, and family to Hunger Revival. Hunger is intentional time spent over a weekend, where we pursue God's Word, ways, and will together. We worship together. We pray together. And we spend time sitting under the teaching of the Word together, as we ask the LORD to lead and guide us as a church in the upcoming ministry year.
We hope to see you there!
Finally, we hope you continue to connect to the life of this vibrant and welcoming church in this warm and wonderful season. Get involved through groups, through serving, or through our various curriculum offerings like NMCU or Re:generation.
Enjoy all that this season has to offer, and savor the summer.
Anyway, back to my poetic prelude...
You hear the faint crackle of the fire pit as you gleefully roast marshmallows, the symphonic swell of the cicadas gliding blissfully along the summer's balmy breeze like notes in a Gershwin suite, as you feel the enshrouded blanket of summer warmly wrap around you like a mother's gentle embrace...
Okay, okay, I'll stop.
Have a great summer, NMC.
Matt (but everyone calls me Matty J for some reason)
Re:generation Highlight Story
Meagan Williams
I grew up in the church, and my parents raised my sister and me with so much grace and truth. I accepted Jesus at 8 and quickly fell in love with the Lord. I wanted to love others the same way He loved me. As I grew up, I naturally fell into the role of the “okay” kid. I didn’t want to cause problems or stress for anyone, so I learned how to hide my struggles and keep everything together on the outside.
Middle and high school were smooth enough that I could maintain my identity as the good kid. My pride and need for approval thrived in church culture. I loved serving; people praised me for leadership and working with kids, and my worth slowly became rooted in what other people thought.
In college, life looked picture perfect on the outside, but inwardly things began to fall apart. My family walked through a deeply painful season that completely shook me. I began questioning everything I thought was stable. Anxiety, depression, shame, and anger quickly took over, and instead of turning to the Lord, I ran to comfort and distraction through food, binge-watching TV, overfilling my schedule, sleeping, isolation, and pornography. I wanted to numb everything I was feeling and pretend I was okay. I deeply wanted to please God, but I felt trapped in shame and convinced He was disappointed in me because I couldn’t “stop sinning”.
Eventually, through counseling, Christian community, and the work of the Holy Spirit, God began teaching me what forgiveness, healing, and surrender really looked like. I slowly began to see how God can redeem even the most broken situations and bring healing where hurt lived.
After finding NMC and serving faithfully, I again found myself hiding behind a mask. Everyone thought I was joyful and thriving, while behind the mask, I felt exhausted, empty, and stuck in cycles of sin and avoidance. Through hard conversations and corrections from NMC leadership, the Lord humbled me and showed me that my identity had become rooted in performance and the approval of others instead of Christ. That’s when the Holy Spirit brought me to Re:generation.
I still remember sitting in my car before walking in for the first time, terrified that people would see through my mask
and realize I didn’t have it together. I almost didn’t go inside. But week after week, the Lord kept bringing me back.
Through Re:generation, God completely changed my life.
For the first time, I was honest about my sin and struggles, and instead of rejection, I was met with grace. The Lord showed me that I wasn’t strong enough to fix myself, and I couldn’t just “stop sinning” through white-knuckling it. He showed me the truth that I didn’t have to have it all together because Jesus paid for all my sins: past, present, and future. He began breaking down the lies I believed about my identity and teaching me that my worth is not found in being needed, success, or approval of others.
As I worked through the biblical steps, the Lord brought healing to places I had buried for years. He helped me recognize unhealthy patterns, confess sin honestly, make amends, and walk in true freedom instead of hiding in shame. I learned how to stop performing and start living fully known and fully loved by Christ. One thing that I am more sure of than ever before is my identity as a sinner saved by grace alone, not by my performance or the "things I do” for the Lord.
Re:generation also gave me something I never expected: deep community. The girls in my step group quickly became sisters to me. They reminded me then, and continue to remind me daily, that I am not alone and continually point me back to truth when pride, shame, or comfort try to take over again.
Life after Re:generation is far from perfect, but it looks wildly different now. I still struggle at times with pride, comfort, and seeking approval, but now I know where to run with those struggles. I trust the Lord with my identity instead of trying to earn it through performance. I’ve learned that life with Jesus is not always comfortable, but it is abundantly better because He walks through every hard thing with us.
Now I get the beautiful gift of serving in Re:generation each week and encouraging new people walking through those doors. I get to remind them that freedom is possible and that Jesus really does transform lives!
Marriage Matters
We want to help build and support strong, thriving marriages centered on Christ.
At North Metro Church, every life stage is important, and we want to equip every person to be a faithful follower of Jesus. In particular, we want to help couples at every stage of their relationship thrive in their walk with Christ and in their commitment as husbands and wives.
We also believe healthy marriages flourish in community. Each of our marriage environments is designed to help couples connect with others, build meaningful relationships, and receive encouragement from those in a similar season of life. After completing a class, couples will have opportunities to continue growing together through community groups that can be launched from each ministry experience.
Our Marriage Ministries kick off this fall, so explore which environment is right for you! Visit northmetro.org/events to learn more and get involved.
Merge is designed to help couples build a strong foundation for a future marriage. Through practical teaching and meaningful conversations, couples will learn how to navigate communication, conflict, finances, expectations, intimacy, and spiritual growth before saying "I do."
Who’s It For:
Seriously dating (one year or more) and engaged couples
Length: Eight consecutive weeks
Start Date: Sunday, August 2
End Date: Sunday, September 27
Re|new is a premarital experience specifically designed for couples entering a second marriage. The class addresses the unique challenges and opportunities that come with remarriage, helping couples establish a healthy, Christ-centered foundation for their future together.
Who’s It For:
Engaged Couples on a Second Marriage
Length of Class: Nine weeks
Start Date: Schedule determined by couple
The early years of marriage set the tone for years to come. Foundation classes help newly married couples establish healthy habits, strengthen communication, deepen intimacy, and build a Christcentered marriage while connecting with other couples in the same season of life.
Who’s It For:
Couples married less than three years
Length of Class: Eight weeks, every other week
Start Date: Monday, August 24
End Date: Monday, December 14
Whether your marriage is thriving, struggling, or somewhere in between, Re|engage offers a fun, safe place to reconnect and grow together. Through biblical teaching, small-group discussions, and authentic community, couples can strengthen their relationship and experience renewed confidence in their marriage.
Who’s It For:
Married couples
Length of Class: 15 weeks consecutively
Start Date: Monday, August 10
End Date: Monday, November 30
WHAT OUR COUPLES ARE SAYING
merge Reviews:
“ We loved our time in Merge. Our leaders, Jim and Lynne Mosman, were incredible! They were so authentic, personable, and open. They created an environment that helped us navigate marital conversations, learn how to handle disagreements, and turn towards Christ. It was also so helpful to have other couples in the group who brought up scenarios that would help us in our future! Merge made this time in our life such a sweet season!”
“ The content covered in Merge was so impactful. It sparked great conversations we wouldn't have naturally had, but that were important as we prepared for marriage.”
“ We really enjoyed the Merge premarital marriage class and our leaders were amazing! The curriculum was thorough and prepared us for taking the next step towards marriage. Would highly recommend for any couple looking to begin their marriage journey.”
“ One thing that I appreciated most about Merge was that it pushed me and my fiancé Keaton to slow down and have intentional conversations about our future marriage, not just our wedding. It helped us better understand God’s purpose for marriage and encouraged us to focus on building a relationship rooted in faith, sacrifice, and serving one another well.”
Re|new Reviews:
“ Kevin and Connie were great. The curriculum and assessment were very insightful and helpful.”
“ Mark and Reeny were a great mentor couple. We felt the class was beneficial and opened our eyes to different aspects of our relationship. It encouraged needed communication between the two of us. We would highly recommend Re|new to other couples.” “ I would highly recommend Re|new to ANY couple that is getting married. It requires time and dedication, but if you want to best prepare yourself for marriage, this course is a must. Having completed the course, I can't imagine entering into a marriage without Re|new!”
FOUNDATION Reviews:
“ We’ve really loved being part of this Foundation marriage group. The leaders do such a great job creating a space that feels welcoming, comfortable, and easy to be yourself in.”
“ The discussions are always relevant and meaningful, and we appreciate getting to talk about topics that are important for marriage but don’t always come up in everyday convos.”
“ Foundation has also been a great way to connect with other couples who are in a similar season of life while also intentionally investing in our relationship.”
“ Our leaders, Henry and Renee, are amazing examples of what it looks like to pursue a healthy, Christ-centered marriage, and we’re so grateful for the impact they’ve had on us.”
“ I’ll add that I really enjoyed the breakout sessions. Might not be something needed every week, but good to have from time to time, like we did.”
Re|engage Reviews:
“ Re|engage gave us a new date night, found a new church family, and met awesome couples!”
“ The course highlighted various issues in our marriage. We were in a rut, not taking inventory of the root of our issues. What surprised us the most was that it starts with us, not pointing fingers, and working on ourselves. We would share that Re|engage is totally worth the investment!”
“ Our takeaway from Re|engage is that it is for all marriages. We didn't come in with massive problems to address, but we have grown closer, love better, and are prepared to continue to fight for us!”
“ I learned that emotional, spiritual, and sexual intimacy are all needed to achieve oneness in marriage.”
“ You don't have to have a problem in your marriage to learn new tools.”
“ Every good marriage can be better!”
“ We are growing together in Christ!”
“ In Re|engage, we learned how to disagree without causing harm to our marriage. We were surprised at how God helped us when we learned to wrestle with our struggles. We would highly recommend Re|engage to everyone!”
“ We both started super apprehensive about Re|engage, but the longer we kept showing up, the more excited we got about it!”
Connect & Grow
WELCOME HOME
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAY, JULY 19 | 11:15AM
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, JULY 26 | 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.
See below for our recent groups launched and currently receiving new members:
COMMUNITY GROUPS:
Lance Thrash: Men's Bible study meets every Thursday, 6:30-8:00pm
CONNECTION GROUPS:
Maintenance and Mods: For those who love to connect through cars
Heart for the Nations: For those who have a heart for missions, whether global or local
West Cobb Families with Little Ones: For families with young children
Table of Fellowship: Co-ed singles seeking connection through shared meals
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 will be held on August 16 at 10:30am at the 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.
MARRIAGE MINISTRIES
Healthy marriages start long before the wedding. Building strong marriages matters here at North Metro Church. We want to
help build and support strong, thriving marriages centered on Christ.
We have marriage discipleship classes designed for seriously dating and engaged couples, newly married couples, and couples who want to make their marriages more enriched by applying biblical principles and growing in their walk with Christ. Classes will begin in early August. To learn more about these classes, visit our Marriage page at northmetro.org/marriage.
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.
INFERTILITY & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
BARRETT CAMPUS | MONDAY, AUGUST 10 | 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 LUNCHEON
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, JULY 12 | 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, JULY 2 | 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.
FOSTER & ADOPTION PARENT SUPPORT GROUP DINNER
BARRETT CAMPUS | THURSDAY, JULY 16 | 6:30-8:00PM
Scripture urges believers to look after the orphans in our community. One way we do this at NMC is by coming around parents and 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 on the third Thursday of each month for a meal and fellowship among these special parents.
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 relaxing dinner.
NMCU
NMCU | ENROLL TODAY
North Metro Church University (NMCU) is our primary vehicle for studying the Bible together to form a biblical worldview. In NMCU Core (101-104), you'll move through a set sequence of classes and learn about the big picture of Scripture and how everything in Scripture points to and is fulfilled in Jesus. In this learning process, NMCU will also help you understand and communicate your faith to others so you can become a more faithful follower of Jesus, a disciple who makes disciples.
NEW AND EXCITING FOR NMCU PARTICIPANTS!
As we continue to create more flexible and effective pathways for spiritual growth, NMCU will no longer be offered as semester-based classes. Instead, we're excited to introduce two new formats available at both campuses, allowing you to choose the experience that best fits your schedule and learning style.
Option 1: Independent Study
Complete NMCU at your own pace through Teachable, our easy-to-use online learning platform.
Option 2: Community Group Experience
For those who prefer a more relational and interactive environment, NMCU serves as North Metro Church’s preferred curriculum through community groups, where you can learn, discuss, and grow alongside others as you build meaningful connections.
Whether you prefer the flexibility of online learning or the encouragement and accountability of a community, there’s a pathway designed just for you!
For additional questions, please contact: classes@northmetro.org. Registration is still required. Sign up today by visiting northmetro.org/nmcu
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.
VISIT THE MOBILIZATION CENTER
At NMC, our vision is to "Be Missed" in our community and around the world by making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. There are many ways to get involved. You can serve at a monthly City Serve event, help provide meals, care for women and children in a tiny home community, build chicken coops for refugee families, or join a serve team centered around a shared passion.
If your Community Group or Connection Group is looking for an opportunity to serve together, we'd love to help you get connected. For those seeking a more ongoing commitment, a variety of Serve Teams provide opportunities to be intentionally involved throughout the year.
At the Barrett Campus, stop by the Mobilization Center before or after services to learn more about how you can serve.
CITY SERVE OPPORTUNITIES
EVERY SECOND SATURDAY
We have exciting news! We will now have City Serve opportunities every month on the second Saturday of the month. City Serve is how North Metro Church lives out our vision to “Be Missed” by serving and loving our local community in practical ways. Through partnerships and serving opportunities, we help people find and follow Jesus by meeting needs, building relationships, and being the hands and feet of Jesus.
Join us on Saturdays, July 11 and August 8. Sign up at northmetro.org/events.
SCHOOL SERVE TEAM
This team supports local schools, teachers, staff, and students through practical acts of encouragement and service. From providing meals and treats to helping with special events, this team offers flexible opportunities to serve when your schedule allows and make a meaningful impact in our community. Sign up to join this team on northmetro.org/serve
THE MEMBER CARE & SUPPORT TEAM
This team serves foster and adoptive families at North Metro Church through practical care and encouragement. Team members receive periodic emails with opportunities to help with meals, lawn care, childcare, transportation, and other needs as they arise.
You can choose the opportunities that fit your schedule and availability. Sign up to join this team on northmetro.org/serve
MISSIONARY CARE SERVE TEAM
Do you have a heart for encouraging and caring for missionaries? Join our Missionary Care Serve Team! This is a great opportunity to stay connected with the missionaries NMC supports, learn how to pray for them well, and care for them in practical ways throughout the year. From sending encouragement to helping meet tangible needs, you can play a meaningful role in supporting those who are sharing the Gospel around the world. Sign up at northmetro.org/serve.
MOVIES AND MISSIONS
TUESDAY, JULY 14 | 6:30-8:30PM • BARRETT CAMPUS
Join us for our last Movie & Missions Night this summer. This family-friendly evening will feature an inspiring movie about a missionary along with stories of how God is at work around the world. It’s a fun and meaningful way to learn more about missions, grow in God’s heart for the nations, and enjoy fellowship with others. We’d love for you to join us! Sign up at northmetro.org/events.
CASA DEL REDENTOR
PANAJACHEL, GUATEMALA | SEPTEMBER 19-27
We are sending our first-ever medical trip to Guatemala. We are partnering with GHO (Global Health Outreach) to serve over 1,000 people in the villages near Panajachel. We will need a variety of medical professionals—doctors, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, physical therapists, nurses, and more. Reach out to Meagan Vinson to learn more: mvinson@northmetro.org.
We have three other upcoming trips going to serve with Casa Del Redentor in Guatemala.
DECEMBER 6-12, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 6
FEBRUARY 14-20, 2027
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 3
APRIL 4-10, 2027
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS JANUARY 3
If you are interested in learning more about our upcoming trips to Guatemala, please join us for a short interest meeting on Sunday, August 23, in room 101 at 10:30am at the Barrett Campus.
Sign up for either at northmetro.org/events.
GAUTEMALA CELEBRATION LUNCH
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18
Whether you have been to Guatemala or supported someone who has, we invite you to join us for a Guatemala Celebration Lunch on Sunday, October 18.
An update from Ivan Mijango. Redeemer's House, or Casa del Redentor, is North Metro Church's international ministry in Panajachel, Guatemala.
Six Months of God's Faithfulness A Mid-Year Ministry Update
Usually, when I write for the newsletter, I share about the latest mission team that visited Guatemala or a specific story of something God has done. This month, I would like to take a step back and give you a broader picture of what the last six months of ministry have looked like.
Earlier this year, God opened a new door for us to share His Word in a school here in Panajachel, where our ministry base is located. When we first connected with the school, they were working hard to improve their feeding program for the students. Originally, they planned to provide only a small snack during the school day, but they soon realized that many children were arriving at school with empty stomachs. In response, they expanded the program to provide lunch for every student.
The school stretched its limited resources as far as possible, but there was still room for improvement. Through CDR, we have been able to provide fresh fruit three times a week—something that was beyond the school's budget. In addition, the school has given us permission to openly teach Bible classes in every classroom during school hours and to offer our art program, which complements those lessons.
This opportunity has also allowed us to build relationships with children and families who face specific challenges, including learning difficulties and the need for academic tutoring. A few of these students now come to our ministry base for additional support so they can improve academically and continue their education. Without a doubt, this opportunity has been an answer to many prayers, and we continue praying that this door remains open for many years to come.
In Xecotoj, a village located just a few minutes from our base, we continue serving three times each week by providing a snack. For some children, this snack is actually their breakfast. This is now the second consecutive year that we have been allowed to teach Bible classes to all of the students during regular school hours. While that may sound normal in some places, it is not always common in Guatemala, where some schools are very cautious about anything related to religion. Being able to share God's Word freely each week remains a tremendous blessing for both the children and our team.
For children who attend different schools, we also host a Friday afternoon program at the village library. We never know whether 10 children or 30 children will show up, but it is always a joy to see them running toward our pickup truck when we arrive.
In the older and more remote communities where we serve, things have been relatively quiet. That may not sound very exciting, but considering some of the challenges we faced in previous months, I am grateful for a season of stability.
Each week, we provide meals twice a week for 160 children in Patzutzun and food assistance for 14 families in Chuitziyut. Over time, we have adapted our menu to include foods the children enjoy most. Our goal is not only to help meet their nutritional needs but also to give them the simple joy of eating some of their favorite meals—although nothing beats a pizza or donut day!
We continue teaching Bible classes during regular school hours in both communities. Recently, we have also begun offering
workshops for teachers, equipping them with practical tools they can use in their classrooms.
In Chuitziyut, it is a privilege to disciple the women of the community and continue the work of planting a church. Each week, we lead an adult Bible study while the women wait to receive food to take home and share with their families. In partnership with a local church in Panajachel, we also hold a worship service every weekend.
Some seasons bring strong participation, while others are quieter. Yet through it all, we can clearly see that God is at work.
Thank you to NMC and to each of you who faithfully pray, give, and serve. Your partnership makes it possible for this ministry to continue helping people find and follow Jesus.
As I close, I would like to ask for your prayers. Please pray especially for the church plant in Chuitziyut. It is a very small village where people are hungry for God's Word and have great faith, but they need to place that faith in the right person—Jesus Christ.
Please also pray for Patzutzun, the largest community where we serve. Our hope and prayer is that God would open the door for a church to be planted there as well.
Finally, if you have never joined one of our mission teams to Guatemala, I would encourage you to prayerfully consider coming. It would be an honor to serve alongside you. And if you have visited before, we hope to see you again soon. Thank you for being part of what God is doing in Guatemala.
Ivan Mijango Casa del Redentor Director
Letter from Brad Thomas Fresh Start International Director
FRESH START FOR THE NATIONS
This past April, I had the privilege of traveling with Pastor Daniel Hicks to a region of South Asia where following Jesus can come at a significant personal cost. There, we met with believers and church leaders who gathered quietly to learn how biblical forgiveness can bring freedom and healing from deep wounds.
For many people, forgiveness is challenging. For some of those we serve around the world, forgiveness can seem nearly impossible. Yet through the truth of Scripture, I have witnessed lives transformed as people discover freedom from bitterness, anger, and the lasting effects of deep wounds.
Fresh Start for the Nations exists to help people experience the freedom that comes through biblical forgiveness. What began as a simple but powerful teaching on forgiveness has now been translated into 25 languages and shared on six continents.
Over the years, our ministry has served pastors, refugees, underground church leaders, trafficking survivors, and people from a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds. Regardless of language, culture, or life experience, the need for healing and freedom is universal.
One of the most powerful examples of God's work comes from Burundi, a nation that endured years of civil war and ethnic violence. During a three-day conference, more than 70 pastors and ministry leaders gathered to learn about biblical forgiveness. Every person in attendance had lost a family member to violence during the conflict. Through Scripture, discussion, and prayer, many chose to forgive those responsible for unimaginable loss. What had weighed on them for years was replaced by freedom, healing, and renewed hope.
In another country where sharing the gospel openly is restricted, we quietly trained underground church leaders in the message of biblical forgiveness. Nearly 700 leaders across multiple cities participated. During one gathering of hundreds of pastors, word arrived that authorities were preparing to raid the meeting. While everyone was able to leave safely, the experience served as a reminder that many believers around the world face significant risks simply for gathering together and growing in their faith.
Fresh Start has also served among refugee communities. In Uganda, where more than a million refugees have fled violence and persecution, we have partnered with local pastors to share the message of forgiveness and freedom. After receiving training, these pastors continued sharing the material in their own languages, allowing the ministry's impact to extend far beyond the original gatherings.
The ministry has also seen God work in unexpected ways. While serving among refugees in Greece, I met a Muslim man who quietly entered a gathering and listened from the back of the room. Afterward, he approached me and asked a simple question: "How do you find peace?" Through a conversation with the help of a translator, he heard the gospel and placed his faith in Christ. Moments like these remind me that God is often working in ways we never expect.
Pastor Daniel Hicks has experienced the impact of Fresh Start firsthand. After participating in the ministry and serving alongside me on international trips, Daniel shared:
“Fresh Start has made a significant impact in my life. I've been able to share my story on Fresh Start trips in Botswana and South Asia and have witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of this ministry.”
What makes Fresh Start unique is its simplicity. The message of biblical forgiveness crosses cultural, language, and geographic boundaries. Whether speaking with pastors in Africa, refugees in Europe, or believers in Asia, the truth remains the same: Christ offers healing, freedom, and hope.
I am deeply grateful for the many churches, individuals, and ministry partners who have faithfully supported Fresh Start over the years. Their prayers, encouragement, and generosity have allowed us to go to places many people will never visit, bringing the hope of the gospel and the freedom of forgiveness to those carrying heavy burdens.
Please join us in praying for the leaders we equip around the world and for the many people who are discovering freedom through the transforming power of biblical forgiveness.
If you'd like to learn more about Fresh Start for the Nations, contact Susan at sthomas@freshstartforallnations.org or me at bthomas@freshstartforallnations.org.
UPCOMING FOR YOU
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
NMC KIDS | THURSDAY NIGHT CHURCH
We're excited to share that Thursday Night Church has officially launched! This new service mirrors the same engaging and highenergy experience kids enjoy on Sunday mornings, creating another opportunity for them to learn biblical truth in a fun, ageappropriate environment.
Each week, kids experience dynamic teaching, worship, games, and small group time designed to help them grow in their faith and build meaningful relationships. Our goal is to partner with families by providing an additional option that fits busy schedules while still giving kids a place where they can have a blast and encounter Jesus. We'd love for your family to join us on Thursday nights!
SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE
JULY 9, 12, 16 & 19
As a way to serve our community, we're hosting a school supply drive to benefit students from local elementary schools. All that is collected will help provide hundreds of students with the items they need to be successful this upcoming school year. Shop our Amazon wishlists or get a shopping list by visiting northmetro.org/events.
PINE COVE CITY SUMMER CAMP
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | JULY 20-24 | 9:00AM-4:00PM
Pine Cove City is coming back to North Metro Church, and we’re excited to host camp at our Sewell Mill Campus July 2024! This unforgettable week is designed for rising 1st-6th graders for the 2026-2027 school year, with each day running from 9:00am-4:00pm and packed with highenergy fun like a climbing wall, inflatables, water slides, team games, Bible study, and hilarious skits. Campers will also experience powerful moments of worship, time with their counselor, and opportunities to grow in their faith, all leading up to a special family celebration on Friday at 4:00pm. Don’t wait to secure your spot at Sewell Mill! The cost is $319 per camper, and you can register now or find more information at northmetro.org.
POP UP WEEKEND
JULY 30 & AUGUST 2
It's time to pop up to the next class! As we begin a new church year, children ages 2 through elementary school will be promoted
to their new NMC Kids classrooms. Preschoolers move up based on age, while elementary students move up according to grade level.
If you have questions about your child's new class, contact Aubree at ajohnson@northmetro.org.
BABY DEDICATION
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS:
CLASS | SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 | 10:00-11:00AM
DEDICATION | SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 | 10:00AM
BARRETT CAMPUS:
CLASS | SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 | 9:15-10:00AM
DEDICATION | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 | 3:00PM
The Baby Dedication Class will prepare you to participate in our next Baby Dedication Service, which will be on Sunday, October 25 at 3:00pm at our Barrett Campus and on Sunday, November 8 during service at our Sewell Mill Campus. This family-friendly service is an intentional environment, with the message and worship focused on the celebration of 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
BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 | 9:15-10:00AM
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 | 10:00-11:00AM
If your elementary-aged child has already taken the step of salvation, this class is the perfect next step. This 45-minute class is
Calling all secret agents! This summer, NMC Kids is launching Summer on Mission, a top-secret operation designed to change the world right from your backyard.
We’ve put together a specialized field manual featuring eight weekly missions that include Scripture passages to study, devotions to read together, and missions to complete in your community. Whether it's serving a neighbor or spreading kindness in the community, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to show God’s love in action!
After you complete all eight missions, report back to NMC Kids headquarters! Cut off the completion slip, sign your "code name" (first and last), and drop it in the designated NMC Kids Mailbox at the church. Agents who complete their missions will receive an exclusive invitation to our Summer Serve Party, a celebration lunch, and a service project for our hardworking recruits!
Grab your Summer on Mission this Sunday, if you have not already done so, and get ready for a summer of intentionality, impact, and fun!
AND YOUR FAMILY
designed for you and your child to attend together. For more information on the baptism process, visit northmetro.org/events.
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 STUDENT NIGHTS
SUMMER AT SEWELL MILL
JOIN US ON SUNDAY, JULY 19, 6:00-8:00PM FOR A PING PONG TOURNAMENT!
Our weekly Sunday night gatherings at the Barrett campus are taking a break for the summer! Our Sewell Mill Campus will run an adjusted schedule. We want our students to enjoy the sunshine and
intentional time with family. We can’t wait to kick things back off on Promotion Sunday, August 2. To stay in the loop on special summer hangouts and events, keep an eye on our Instagram @nmcstudents and @nmcstudents_sewellmill
NMC STUDENTS MISSION TRIP
Our countdown is officially on! From July 12 through July 18, our students will be heading to Guatemala on a mission to love on the people of Panajachel. For this trip, students will work alongside Casa Del Redentor's local staff throughout the community to support local education, assist with family care programs, and build lasting relationships. These students are eager to share the love of Christ through their actions, words, and connections. Please keep our students, leaders, and the CDR team in your thoughts for safe travels, good health, and open hearts as they prepare to help people find and follow Jesus!
NMC COLLEGE & YOUNG ADULTS (18-23)
COLLEGE NIGHTS
College Nights are heading into a summer break! Our Tuesday night gatherings at the Barrett Campus are pausing to allow for summer travels and internships. We will return to our regular rhythm in the Theater, starting August 18. Follow us on Instagram @nmccollege__ to stay updated!
NMC COLLEGE MISSION TRIPS
We are thrilled to send out two College teams this summer to partner with ministries dedicated to sharing the Gospel in diverse and urban contexts. Here is how you can support and pray for them as they go!
NMC College Mission Trip
We are thrilled to send out two College teams this summer to partner with ministries dedicated to sharing the Gospel in diverse and urban contexts. Here is how you can support and pray for them as they go!
New Jersey Mission Trip
July 9-13
In July, a group of NMC college students will be heading to New Jersey to partner with Alpha Ministries International (AMI) for a cross-cultural mission in one of the most diverse areas of the country. Since its start in 1995, Alpha Ministries has been dedicated to sharing the Gospel through service and radical love, a mission that began by bringing transformation to impoverished communities in Pakistan and now extends to reaching the nations here in the States. During this trip, our team will engage with Hindu, Muslim, and Jewish neighbors, visiting local places of worship to better understand these communities and share the hope of Christ through intentional, relational evangelism. Please join us in praying that God would open doors for natural, Gospelcentered conversations and that our students would serve with a balance of boldness and humility in Jesus’ name. We also ask for your prayers for deep unity among the team and that this experience would give our students a fresh perspective on how God is working across all cultures.
Leadership Candidates LEADERSHIP
The North Metro Church fiscal year comes to a close on June 30, and during that time, our leadership teams begin interviewing and selecting new candidates for service.
The Council of Elders has carefully interviewed candidates to serve on the leadership team who have met the Biblical qualifications for leadership outlined in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. At this time, we bring these prospective candidates before the church for 30 days. During this period, any member(s) may show cause as to why these prospective leaders should not serve in leadership. In keeping with Matthew 18:15 and Matthew 5:24, any member with concerns must first express them directly to the individual and then to the Council of Elders (elders@northmetro.org). At the end of the 30-day period, the leaders will be confirmed in their new leadership roles.
Candidates under consideration are:
Elders:
» Shawn Holland
» Ro Sparacio
Board of Advisors:
» Toby Wong
» Matt Douglass
» Alexa Berger
We’re excited to gather and create more time and space to worship together! Thursday Night Church kicks off our weekend services, including the same message and worship as Sunday. It’s a great way to connect, celebrate, and help make room for the incredible growth we’ve seen at the Barrett Campus. We hope you join us at Thursday Night Church.
7:00PM AT THE BARRETT
CAMPUS
FRIDAY-SATURDAY
JULY 31-AUGUST 1 • 7:00-8:30PM
We are excited to gather for our annual Hunger Revival at the end of the summer. This will be our fifth Hunger Revival, held in the evenings on Friday-Saturday, July 31-August 1. We'll have intentional times of worship, open God's Word with guest speakers, and celebrate baptisms. These Hunger Revivals have become a landmark in the life of NMC, and we can not wait to see what God will do this year as we hunger for His word, ways, and worship. Childcare is provided. Find more details at northmetro.org/hunger.
YTD May 2026
Income: 8,377,246.57
Expense: 6,747,029.81
Over(under): 1,630,216.76
BARRETT CAMPUS (CENTRAL CAMPUS)
2305 Ernest Barrett Pkwy • Marietta, GA 30064
Service Times: Thursdays at 7:00pm | Sundays at 9:15am & 11:00am
SEWELL MILL CAMPUS
2550 Sewell Mill Road • Marietta, GA 30062
Service Time: Sundays at 10:00am info@northmetro.org • 678.290.7830
us on Social Media! @wearenorthmetro Stay in the loop with all things NMC.