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Important Updates from John

Maggard

Hey NMC Family,

As we turn the corner towards Spring, I'm looking forward to getting back outside. I don't know about you, but I am ready for longer days. I come from a family with a proud Kentucky heritage, so I'm used to many Southern sayings. I believe March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb if I am quoting my mama, Nellie Sue, correctly.

There is a lot going on at NMC. As most of you know, we are pressed for space at the Barrett Campus. Thank you all for your patience as we navigate what's next. But I wanted to tell you what I do know for now. We have hit some permitting and zoning roadblocks on the parking lot construction. While we are continuing to move forward, the plan is still to add parking as soon as possible; the timeline is just delayed.

At the same time, Thursday Night Church is continuing to grow. I know I personally love it! Not trying to wake up my two young adults to get to church is a peaceful change in our house. If you have not had a chance to check it out, we would love to see you there. Parking is easy, I promise.

But beyond convenience, you are making room for "one more" on Sunday mornings. With all the Thursday growth, we decided to move our Hunger Nights of Worship from Thursday to Sunday nights going forward to keep our Thursday services consistent.

Over at Sewell Mill, as we gear up for Easter and all the festivities, we want to create a great environment for all the new people who usually check out our church this time of year. We are combining services beginning Sunday, March 15, to one service at 10:00am. We are excited about how this will create energy, give you a chance to meet more people, and help form a greater community if you attend our Sewell Mill Campus. If you attend Barrett and have always wanted a 10:00am service, feel free to check it out.

I am honored to be a part of this church family. Wishing you a great spring. May the pollen count be low and your March Madness bracket be perfect.

John Maggard Executive Pastor

SEWELL MILL CAMPUS SERVICE TIME!

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 here!

April 2-5

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)

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

SEWELL MILL CAMPUS

Saturday, April 4 | 4:00pm (NMC Kids + Festival) Sunday, April 5 | 10:00am (NMC Kids)

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.

Connect & Grow

WELCOME HOME

SEWELL MILL CAMPUS | SUNDAY, MARCH 15 | 11:15PM

BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, MARCH 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.

See next column for our recent groups launched currently receiving new members.

COMMUNITY GROUPS:

Portia Tadesse — Co - ed singles 40+ group, meets every other Monday, 6:30–8:30pm

Ed & Myra Boerner — Marrieds group, meets on the First and Third Wednesday 7:00-8:30pm

Suso Villa Campos — Spanish-speaking group, meets every other Sunday, 12:30–2:00pm

Jasmine Peters — Women’s Bible study for women in their 30s–40s, meets Wednesdays, 6:30–8:00pm

Charlene Beaton — Singles of all ages, meeting Wednesdays 6:30-8:00pm

Heather Dreeman & Julia Mattern — Women’s Bible study, meets Mondays, 7:00–8:30pm

Seth & Aubrey Gregory — Families with young kids (elementary age or younger), meets Sundays, 12:30–2:00pm

CONNECTION GROUPS:

Erin Nason: Super Moms of Special KidsMoms with children with special needs meets the 3rd Wednesday of every month 7:00-8:30pm

Tony Fuentes: Soccer meets every other Thursday, 8:00-9:30pm

Heather & Justin Foster: Faith in Motionwalking, jogging, running group

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 engaged couples who regularly attend NMC.. 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.

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

BARRETT CAMPUS | MONDAY, MARCH 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, MARCH 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, MARCH 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

TUESDAY, 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

TUESDAY, 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.

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.

ELEMENTARY BAPTISM CLASS

SEWELL MILL CAMPUS: SUNDAY, MARCH 22 | 10:00-11:00AM

BARRETT CAMPUS: SUNDAY, APRIL 26 | 9:15-10:00AM

If your elementary-aged child has already taken the step of salvation, this class is the perfect next step. This 45-minute class is designed for you and your child to attend together. For more information on the baptism process, visit northmetro.org/events.

FAITH THAT GOES WITH THEM: 50 THINGS KIDS NEED TO KNOW

BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, APRIL 19 | 12:15-2:30PM

Join us for a practical, faith-based class where we explore the 50 essential lessons every child should learn before leaving home. Based on the bestselling book by Josh and Jen Mulvihill, this class will give parents tools, guidance, and encouragement to intentionally prepare their children for a successful, God-centered life. You’ll walk away with actionable ideas and a roadmap to help your child grow in character, faith, and life skills. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your parenting and leave a lasting impact on your family’s future. If you want more information on this class or want to sign up, visit northmetro.org/events.

NMC KIDS TABLE TALKER

MARCH/APRIL DISCIPLESHIP TOOL

The NMC Kids Table Talker is a discipleship tool developed by the NMC Kids team to help families connect intentionally

AND YOUR FAMILY

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 to the NMC Kids mailbox 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

BARRETT CAMPUS | SUNDAY, APRIL 26 | 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, April 26, 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.

NMC STUDENTS | 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 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

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 week long 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!

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.

NMC STUDENT MISSION TRIPS

See next page.

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.

This summer is an exciting season for NMC Students. We have the privilege of sending five mission teams into the world, and we are in awe as we watch students respond to God’s call to go. Seeing young men and women step forward with willing hearts, ready to serve, love, and share the Gospel, is one of the greatest joys of student ministry.

We believe students are not just the future of the Church; they are an essential part of what God is doing right now. Through these trips, they will grow in dependence on the Lord and experience His work far beyond their everyday context.

NMC STUDENT MISSION TRIPS Guatemala

Scotland Mission Trip

One of our favorite parts of student ministry is helping the broader church family see how God is moving in the next generation. These teams are stepping into real opportunities to trust Him and join His mission in the world.

This summer, NMC Students and NMC College will partner with ministries both locally and globally. From sharing the love of Christ in Atlanta neighborhoods to engaging Hindu, Muslim, and Jewish communities in New Jersey to serving alongside Take Hold Church in Scotland to sharing God's heart in Guatemala, our students will encourage the Church and reflect Jesus wherever they go.

There are two meaningful ways you can partner with them: pray and give. Please pray for safety, unity, boldness, and lasting Gospel impact in both the students and the people they will meet.

Our greatest need is financial support for two High School international teams serving in Scotland and Guatemala. International travel comes with high costs, and every gift, big or small, helps make it possible for students to step into these life-changing experiences. Your generosity not only sends them, but it also fuels Gospel conversations, strengthens local ministry partners, and allows our students to witness firsthand how God is moving around the world.

Mission Trip

SCAN TO SUPPORT

SUMMER IS COMING —

and it’s time to jump in! Are you looking for ways to serve others, build strong community, and create memories that will last long after the season ends? There’s no better way to grow in your faith and strengthen relationships than by serving side by side. When we roll up our sleeves together, something powerful happens — friendships deepen, faith grows, and our community is changed.

This summer, there are opportunities for everyone — families, singles, students, young and old. Whether it’s serving in Guatemala, South Georgia, inner-city Atlanta, kids camps, or right here in our own neighborhoods, there’s a place for you. Let’s not let the summer slip by. Let’s love boldly, serve faithfully, and make an impact together.

CASA DEL REDENTOR

PANAJACHEL, GUATEMALA | MAY 31 - JUNE 6

This summer, join us on a weeklong mission trip to serve alongside Casa del Redentor, our ministry in Guatemala that partners with local communities to build churches, support families, provide education, and help people find and follow Jesus with grace. You’ll have the opportunity to engage in meaningful outreach, serve alongside local leaders, and experience the global Church in a way that transforms both the community and your own walk with Christ. This trip is open to anyone ages 10 and up. Children need to serve with a family member. More information at north metro.org/serve/ Guatemala. The application deadline is Sunday, March 1.

CAMP GRACE

ROBERTA, GA | SUMMER 2026

Spend a week this summer serving with our long-time ministry partner, Camp Grace, just under two hours away in Roberta, GA. Camp Grace transforms the lives of underserved youth through grace by providing life-changing overnight camp experiences — and you can help make that happen.

Our team will interact with campers daily while helping create an unforgettable camp environment. From leading arts and crafts and facilitating activities like fishing and canoeing to setting up games, events, and meals, you’ll play a hands-on role in making camp special. Join us in creating a space where students can experience joy, belonging, and the love of Christ.

We will be taking a group down from NMC to serve with our long time partner, Camp Grace. This is a great way to serve on a local mission trip and build memories. The dates are still being finalized. Contact Meagan Vinson at mvinson@northmetro.org if you are interested in learning more.

WAYMARK ROYAL KIDS CAMP

EAST GA | JUNE 6-JUNE 12

Waymark hosts two separate summer camps during this week! One serves children ages 7-12 in foster, adoptive, and group homes, and the other serves teens ages 13-14 who participate in our Community4Youth Mentorship Program.

We have opportunities for counselors (leaders) who are responsible for 2 children; nurses, staff assistants, photographers, registration volunteers, as well as group opportunities (ex. photo albums, cards, special events). To learn more about camp, go to northmetro.org/serve/waymark or Contact Tasha Whitener at tasha@waymarkfoster.org

CITY SERVE OPPORTUNITIES

We will have many opportunities throughout the summer with our local partners through washing the cars of senior citizens, serving meals to our partners, yard work and much more. Email mvinson@northmetro.org to be added to our City Serve email list.

HARVEST INDIA

MUMBAI, INDIA | JANUARY 2027

For six decades, Harvest India has carried Christ’s compassion to the villages of India, serving the poorest of the poor, caring for orphans, providing education, and sharing the Gospel. Join us for a ten-day trip to

serve alongside the people of Harvest India. We will have an informational meeting on Sunday, April 19, at the Barrett Campus at 10:30am. Register at northmetro.org/events

CASA DEL REDENTOR

PANAJACHEL, GUATEMALA | SEPTEMBER 19 - SEPTEMBER 27

We are having our first ever medical trip down to Guatemala. We are partnering with GHO (Global Health Outreach). to serve over 1000 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.

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. Mentors serve once a month, helping facilitate meaningful conversations through Habitudes by Dr. Tim Elmore, a leadership and social-emotional curriculum that equips students with tools for healthy character, wise decision-making, and strong leadership. This is an opportunity to engage students in the public school environment where they can practice these skills daily. Take the next step by emailing Jill Stewart at jstewart@northmetro.org or check out the details at northmetro.org/serve.

An update from Ivan Mijango. Redeemer's House, or Casa del Redentor, is North Metro Church's international ministry in Panajachel, Guatemala.

15 Years in Guatemala

In January, Casa del Redentor celebrated 15 years of helping people find and follow Jesus in Guatemala. These years have been marked by challenges, learning, and many victories that can only be explained by God’s faithfulness. From the moment Lee Radford and his family decided to move to Guatemala until today, we have consistently witnessed God’s grace and favor over this ministry and over the lives of hundreds of individuals and families.

A few days ago, Sara—our longest-serving staff member—made a comment that perfectly summarizes what CDR has been doing over these past 15 years. She said, Wherever Casa del Redentor goes—seeking to walk within God’s will and to be a blessing— communities thrive.

That statement truly reflects what we have seen. Over the years, communities such as Patzutzún and Chuitziyut have overcome chronic malnutrition; moved from having only a few classrooms to a complete school, including a sports area; celebrated the opening of a brand-new health clinic; seen people raise their hands to begin a relationship with Jesus; and my favorite part—children praying and sharing with their parents the Bible lessons they have learned.

It is important to say that none of this has happened because CDR sent construction teams to build buildings, or because we visited every home every day to ensure that each child was properly fed. It has happened because we chose to be present. We were there even when no one else wanted to go, when conditions were difficult, or when some opposed our presence. We were there to

serve consistently, to love intentionally, and to share the message of Jesus—and God did the rest.

Over these 15 years, we have learned that true transformation takes time, requires perseverance, and is built through relationships. It is not only about programs or projects, but about walking alongside communities, listening to their stories, celebrating their progress, and trusting that God is at work even when results are not immediately visible.

We could not have been there for these 15 years—providing food, education, and biblical teaching, even throughout the pandemic—without the faithful support of NMC. We have no doubt that this ministry was born in the heart of God, as we often say here, because the love, trust, and support we have received have been simply incredible. As I have shared before, this year we are serving approximately 450 children in the four communities where we work, and I am convinced that the ceiling is still higher and that God has much more ahead.

Thank you, NMC, for welcoming CDR as family and for equipping us to do what we do. Thank you to all the friends who have visited us on mission trips and have walked alongside us. Thank you to our current and former board members for their leadership and commitment, and a very special thank you to the Radford family for saying YES to God more than 15 years ago and planting the seed that continues to bear fruit today.

Ivan Mijango Casa del Redentor Director

Re:generation Highlight Story

Kim Tucker

Hi! My name is Kim and I have a new life in Christ. I am in recovery for codependency, control, and unforgiveness.

My story is not exciting or dramatic; rather, it is the story of a life slowly sinking into despair.

I grew up going to church, and it was during high school that I trusted Jesus as my Savior and became very involved in church. My youth group was crucial in helping form my views of Jesus as I grew closer and closer to Him.

I continued to grow in my faith and be involved in my church. I married my best friend and had 2 beautiful daughters. I had a job I loved. But over time, things became not so great – money was always tight, the girls grew up and moved away, my husband and I went through some rough times – he lost his job, and I had to leave the job I loved and take a job I hated. My life was out of my control and I felt unheard and unprotected — feelings that were also rooted in my childhood story. I found myself constantly disappointed, always trying to control my husband, angry, bitter, resentful – and joyless. I felt defeated, constantly juggling things that needed to be “fixed.” I was exhausted, but I had become so used to always moving forward and not taking time for reflection or to sit in my circumstances. I was great at denial, adapting, deflecting, stuffing everything down because I couldn’t control it. On the outside, everything was great – I was healthy, had a great family, lots of friends, was very involved in church – but I was so miserable on the inside and wouldn’t allow myself to acknowledge how hurt and wounded I was. I was hopeless that anything would ever change.

When I started ReGen, I had no idea what I was getting into! That first night, as women I didn’t know began sharing some of their struggles, I began to wonder if there was hope that I could get my joy back. At that time I was still thinking my circumstances needed to change - it had never occurred to me that I needed to change! My ReGen sisters’ honesty and vulnerability showed me how to admit my struggles, and that I didn’t need to deny and stuff down the hurt and pain that I had ignored for so long.

Now, about 2 years after beginning this journey, I have learned so much about myself and why I do the things I do. And that knowledge is the beginning of change. Don’t let anyone tell you an old dog can’t learn new tricks! I’m learning that my ability to just manage my sin is not recovery at all – real recovery comes instead when I dig deep and face the hard things, resulting in a life filled with such joy that there is no room left for sin!

One of the most noticeable things about this new life I have is that God is allowing me to see beyond the surface level of peoples’ pain and think about what is inside them that is driving their behavior. I find myself being much more empathetic — recognizing that so much of outward behavior is just a symptom of inner pain. And this goes for myself, first of all! (Just like Paul, I am chief among sinners!)

My life has not suddenly become easy and full of unicorns and rainbows because of ReGen. I still struggle with unforgiveness – I have to practice it daily. My sinful self still wants to control those around me to make things go the way I want them to. My codependency still beckons me to “fix” everyone and everything so I can be accepted, appreciated, and loved. But now, thanks to ReGen, I have tools in my toolbox. First of all, I can recognize my sin when it arises, and then I can ask God for help. I know that He will help me when temptation comes (1 Cor. 10:13). And when I do mess up and sin anyway, He is faithful and just to forgive me of my sins (1 John 1:9).

I am continuing to learn how to listen for God’s voice before acting. I am learning to let go of behaviors and situations I have no power to change, and to trust that God is in control. This frees me from bitterness, resentfulness, and anger. I have found my JOY again, the joy of knowing I am secure, deeply loved, and cherished by Jesus. Romans 12:12 has become one of my favorite verses: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in affliction, be persistent in prayer.” I know He holds me in His arms and protects me and will never ever let me go – all glory be to God!

Join us at the Barrett Campus on any Wednesday at 7:00pm in the Theater. Learn more at northmetro.org/regeneration.

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Cafe Student Takeover

All month long, NMC Students are taking over the cafe and every purchase or donation supports their upcoming mission trips as they prepare to serve locally and globally this summer! We’ll also have limited-run merch available, so stop by the cafe, support our students, and be part of sending them out.