N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5

WHY ARE WE HERE? IBC is a community that exists because we believe Jesus Christ transforms lives. We want to be fully alive as followers of Jesus, and we hope you’ll join us on this journey.

HOW DO WE DO THIS?

GROWING IN CHRIST At the heart of our journey is the gospel of Jesus. We trust Christ as our Savior and find ourselves becoming more like him as we deepen our relation-ship with him.

CONNECTING IN COMMUNITY The way of following Jesus is not a path we walk alone. The gospel story draws us into a community of people whose lives are being transformed by Jesus.

JOINING THE MISSION Followers of Jesus aren’t just saved, they’re also sent. Believers become witnesses to the grace of God as they take part in his mission to rescue and redeem the lost and broken.

For more about growing in Christ, connecting in community, and join-ing the mission at IBC, please contact info@irvingbible.org.

C O N TACT I B C2435 Kinwest Pkwy Irving, TX 75063 (972) 560-4600

WEB irvingbible.org FACEBOOK irvingbible TWITTER @ibcvoice ELETTER irvingbible.org/eletter

New to IBC? Turn to page 18.

TAPESTRY CONFERENCEIn October, IBC hosted the Tapestry Adoption and Foster Care Conference with special guest speaker Dr. Karyn Purvis. The “Back to Basics”- themed weekend welcomed families, ministry workers, and adoption professionals seeking training and encour-agement for the adoption/foster care journey.

I started attending the Tapestry Conference my senior year of high school and I wanted to let you know that the session on healing worked in my heart in huge ways. Tapestry’s ministry has brought healing to my parents’ home and will always hold a huge place in my heart.

–Conference Attendee

Chatter | 3

LIFE

THERE’S THIS THING AMONG CHRISTIANS WHERE WE WANT COMPLETE STORIES FROM ONE ANOTHER. We want a beginning, a middle, and an end. There’s very little willingness to live in sus-pension. Maybe this is because it doesn’t line up with the Clifs-Notes way in which we usually talk about God and the Bible. We have the whole story on speed-dial — God makes the world, the world goes wrong, the world is made right. Point A resolves to Point B. And then there’s the personal, individual Gospel — we were broken, Jesus came to save us, and we are made right to live abundantly in him. Our faith is a narra-tive faith, a trajectory we revisit from beginning to end almost every time we’re together. There’s always a beginning, a middle, and a conclusion.

So what happens when our personal stories get stuck somewhere between point A and B, or between B and C? It’s awkward, but why? We love suspended things. We love a musical chord that’s dissonant, hanging in the air, floating on a millisec-ond before its resolution washes over us. We adore that moment of free-fall between acrobats, the hitch of breathlessness when all could go wrong or all could go right and it’s brilliantly unclear for only a second until the expected — yet thrilling — catch is made. We love the suspension in a speaker’s voice when he pauses. Ever so subtly. To put em-phasis on that one. Single. Word.

Suspension is brilliant.

Except when it’s the norm and not the nano-second. Then it becomes grating and frightening, and it makes for some awkward Christian conversations.

It’s awkward to shrug your shoulders when your friend can’t seem to believe in God’s goodness any-more. Awkward when another friend bemoans the endless dysfunction in her family. Awkward, even, when I look in the mirror and see a very different person than the one I thought I’d encounter at this stage of life.

When will my story line up nicely with the Bible story, the Gospel-story? When will I be able to stand up in front of a church gathering and share my life in Point-A-to-B terms? And quickly I go from asking “when?” to “will I ever”?

In 2 Corinthians, the apostle Paul alludes to his ever-fascinating “thorn in the flesh,” a “messen-ger of Satan” sent to torment him. He asked God multiple times to remove it but to no avail. He concludes its purpose is to keep him from being conceited about the powerful revelations and position he had received from God. I wonder how that resolved itself in Paul’s life. I wonder if he was forever suspended over dark water or if he was able to stand and proclaim victory over this thing that interfered with a simpler trajectory.

The longest suspension bridge in the world is the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, linking the city of Kobe on the mainland of Honshu to Iwaya on Awaji Island, in Japan. It crosses the busy Akashi Strait, a major waterway that often experiences bad storms. In 1955, two ferries sank in the Strait, killing 168 people, a tragedy that prompted the Japanese gov-ernment to begin plans for a massive, 2-mile long suspension bridge. And like travelers on the bridge today, I am also trying to learn to trust my own sus-pension. Not only to trust God Himself, but to trust Suspension Itself. To see it as a way over troubled waters, the dark nature of which only God knows. Suspension might be inconvenient, long, confus-ing, painful and seemingly endless, but what about the alternative? Piloting my little ship through some other more sinister storm?

My story — your story — is a hard one to tell. We had a beginning. That, at least, is certain. We’re somewhere in the middle, I think. Or maybe we have to go and start a new beginning once or twice, or every day, and the end of the story could be now

— or nowhere in sight.

So are we willing to travel in suspension? To keep moving forward over the unknown, on an equally unknown trajectory? Can we hold dearly to the sentiment expressed by Moses who led the Israel-ites on a windy road to the Promised Land?

Hear his confidence, placed unequivocally in God instead of in predictability or a tidy plan:

“In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling” (Exodus 15:13).

a letter from ChatterEditor Julie Rhodes

Art Direction, Design & Goodness Josh Wiese, Lindsey Sobolik, JD Lemming

Admin Extraordinaire Victoria Andrews

Pastor to Hashtags Scott McClellan, Communications Pastor

Photography Evan Chavez (Photo Update)*

Writers Lauren Gilland (Mountain)* Jason Elwell (Peace)* Sarah Steinmann (Joy)*

Editorial Assistance/Proofing Summer Alexander*, Annie Stone*

Thoughts, comments, ideas? Contact Chatter at chatter@irvingbible.org.

Need Chatter Digitally? Chatter is on the web at irvingbible.org/chatter.

Are you a media socialite? Like Chatter on Facebook. It’s so likeable.

*Most beloved and indispensable Chatter Volunteer.

**Most beloved and indispensable IBC staff member/elder.

Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water”

has been covered by over 50 artists, including Elvis Presley.

HISTORY

SCIENCE

TEXAS

TOMFOOLERY

LANGUAGE

GENERAL

FOOD

CULTURE

CHATTER FACT ICON KEY

Chatter is…

GEOGRAPHY

Chatter | 4

There’s a legend that says when God commanded the angels to spread out natural resources throughout

the earth, they dropped the bulk of that wealth into the heart of Af-rica—specifi cally, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The earth of D.R. Congo births precious gems, vibrant produce, and a plethora of other items on which the world’s economy thrives. But you wouldn’t know it by visiting.

While D.R. Congo boasts of being the wealthiest country in the world in natural resources, it also carries with it the burden of more tragic statistics. D.R. Congo is the poorest country in the world, according to GDP. The plentiful resources that are harvested in D.R. Congo have long benefi ted corrupt business-men and politicians who profi t at the expense of the Congolese people. While they have built extravagant bank accounts, the people of D.R. Congo are suff ering from an endless list of poverty-stricken conditions

— starvation, poor medical care, and lack of educational resources.

But there’s an even darker statis-tic: Goma, D.R. Congo, is rated the rape capital of the world. Among the tribal religions is a belief that when a woman is raped, it gives the perpetrator supernatural strength as a warrior in battle. Rebels have ter-rorized the country for years, making it too dangerous for anyone to be out after dark. The rebels stalk the woods around cities and villages. But women and children need to fetch wood regularly to build fi res in order to cook, daily making the choice between starving and potentially being assaulted.

Trauma is not a tragedy that hap-pens to an unfortunate few in D.R. Congo. There is a harrowing story of every life within its borders. No man, woman, or child escapes the horrifi c realities that permeate the country. But D.R. Congo is not without hope. D.R. Congo is full of amazing indi-viduals — intelligent, strong, humble, and beautiful people. The harvest is plentiful in D.R. Congo but the labor-ers are very few.

For one week this year, I had the privilege of being a laborer myself. Yet despite my background and pas-sion, I was an unlikely candidate.

Since 2000, IBC has partnered with ALARM (African Leadership and Reconciliation Ministry). One of its many vital and ongoing ministries is the Trauma and Healing Conference, an intensive week designed to radi-cally help and heal victims of rape and abuse. My background seemed to fi t perfectly: I had graduated from DTS’s Biblical Counseling program in May 2014, and many of my practi-cal experience hours were served at a domestic violence outreach center. Even my personal life seemed to be preparation: during my fi rst year at DTS, I myself was in an abu-sive relationship.

Shortly after that relationship ended, I started interning for Jodie Niznik, IBC’s Pastor to Women, in IBC’s Women’s Ministry. Jodie invited me to join a discipleship group she

was starting with several other women leaders at IBC. It was in that discipleship group that the Lord per-formed so much healing in my life and heart. Those women were like sisters, mothers, and grandmothers to me. They loved on me through the most painful parts of that breakup. 

Near the end of the second year in that group, two of the women (Barb Haesecke and Lindsey Sobolik) shared they were going on the D.R. Congo trip. They talked about how many of the women who attend have experienced multiple types of abuse and trauma — a subject very close to my heart. I was jealous of the oppor-tunity to visit D.R. Congo, but I was also in the throes of my last semester at DTS. Not great timing for me to leave the country. I knew I wanted to go sometime, but that was not the time. So when the announcements came around this year, my heart was stirred. But again it was bad timing. My career wasn’t taking off the way

THE

MOUNTAIN-MOVER

Congo was colonized by Belgium in 1908. The country, not the waffl e.

Chatter | 4

There’s a legend that says when God commanded the angels to spread out natural resources throughout

the earth, they dropped the bulk of that wealth into the heart of Af-rica—specifi cally, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The earth of D.R. Congo births precious gems, vibrant produce, and a plethora of other items on which the world’s economy thrives. But you wouldn’t know it by visiting.

While D.R. Congo boasts of being the wealthiest country in the world in natural resources, it also carries with it the burden of more tragic statistics. D.R. Congo is the poorest country in the world, according to GDP. The plentiful resources that are harvested in D.R. Congo have long benefi ted corrupt business-men and politicians who profi t at the expense of the Congolese people. While they have built extravagant bank accounts, the people of D.R. Congo are suff ering from an endless list of poverty-stricken conditions

— starvation, poor medical care, and lack of educational resources.

But there’s an even darker statis-tic: Goma, D.R. Congo, is rated the rape capital of the world. Among the tribal religions is a belief that when a woman is raped, it gives the perpetrator supernatural strength as a warrior in battle. Rebels have ter-rorized the country for years, making it too dangerous for anyone to be out after dark. The rebels stalk the woods around cities and villages. But women and children need to fetch wood regularly to build fi res in order to cook, daily making the choice between starving and potentially being assaulted.

Trauma is not a tragedy that hap-pens to an unfortunate few in D.R. Congo. There is a harrowing story of every life within its borders. No man, woman, or child escapes the horrifi c realities that permeate the country. But D.R. Congo is not without hope. D.R. Congo is full of amazing indi-viduals — intelligent, strong, humble, and beautiful people. The harvest is plentiful in D.R. Congo but the labor-ers are very few.

For one week this year, I had the privilege of being a laborer myself. Yet despite my background and pas-sion, I was an unlikely candidate.

Since 2000, IBC has partnered with ALARM (African Leadership and Reconciliation Ministry). One of its many vital and ongoing ministries is the Trauma and Healing Conference, an intensive week designed to radi-cally help and heal victims of rape and abuse. My background seemed to fi t perfectly: I had graduated from DTS’s Biblical Counseling program in May 2014, and many of my practi-cal experience hours were served at a domestic violence outreach center. Even my personal life seemed to be preparation: during my fi rst year at DTS, I myself was in an abu-sive relationship.

Shortly after that relationship ended, I started interning for Jodie Niznik, IBC’s Pastor to Women, in IBC’s Women’s Ministry. Jodie invited me to join a discipleship group she

was starting with several other women leaders at IBC. It was in that discipleship group that the Lord per-formed so much healing in my life and heart. Those women were like sisters, mothers, and grandmothers to me. They loved on me through the most painful parts of that breakup. 

Near the end of the second year in that group, two of the women (Barb Haesecke and Lindsey Sobolik) shared they were going on the D.R. Congo trip. They talked about how many of the women who attend have experienced multiple types of abuse and trauma — a subject very close to my heart. I was jealous of the oppor-tunity to visit D.R. Congo, but I was also in the throes of my last semester at DTS. Not great timing for me to leave the country. I knew I wanted to go sometime, but that was not the time. So when the announcements came around this year, my heart was stirred. But again it was bad timing. My career wasn’t taking off the way

THE

MOUNTAIN-MOVER

Congo was colonized by Belgium in 1908. The country, not the waffl e.

Chatter | 5

I had hoped it would, and fi nances were tight. Most concerning, how-ever, were ongoing health issues that would prevent me from getting the necessary vaccines. Neither my doctor nor my parents were thrilled about the possibility of me leaving.

But God was persistent. He opened the doors for me to get the medical exemption I needed from my doctor. He provided the funds through many generous people — some of whom I have never met or even heard of. And when he fi nally came down to getting my visa approved, it was seamless. Honestly, I had believed a door would close somewhere along the way and that God would teach me some lesson about trusting him even when things don’t turn out the way I hope. But to my great joy and surprise, he opened every door. 

The very fi rst morning I walked into the Trauma and Healing Conference in Goma, Congo, there were already many women seated and ready to learn. I remember thinking, What could I possibly teach them about trauma that they haven’t already experienced in graphic detail? Their faces were hardened by years of car-rying wounds. My stomach churned as several girls as young as thirteen funneled into the room to sit behind

my friend Penny and me. No, I thought; they are too young.

For me, helping with the conference was like getting to play Santa Clause, but the joy on the faces of the women far surpassed that of any child on Christmas as each one received her very fi rst Bible. Raising them high over their heads, the women sang and shouted and cheered with praise.

Over the ensuing fi ve days, the hardened faces of the women melted from skeptical to hopeful. As the women sat and hungrily consumed every lesson we shared, their resolve to embark on a journey of healing with God began to blossom. As a counselor, I have sat in offi ces week after week sharing the same infor-

mation with clients and have seen only the slightest glimpse of prog-ress. But God was doing something miraculous among these particular women. In what often takes weeks, months, and years of therapeutic work, the Lord was doing in the lives of these women in fi ve days — right before my eyes.

On one of the last days, I looked out across a room full of beautiful Congolese women and saw hope and healing and freedom and joy. No, not everything from their past was resolved, healed, or forgotten, but seeds had already taken root. And I believe God intends for them to become abundantly fruitful in their families and villages.

The Lord moved mountains to get me to Congo last April. But it was at the end of the conference when the Holy Spirit opened my eyes to see it was not only for me that he moved those mountains, but also because of his matchless love for the women in D.R. Congo. God loves them so dearly that he moved many, many, many hearts in the United States in order to bring them truth, hope, healing, and freedom. What a joy to witness.

Lauren Gilland once splashed around in a traffi c circle fountain in Paris while taxi drivers drove past, yelling at her in foreign languages.

Lauren is a part-time Licensed Professional Counselor-Intern at Innovation 360 and freelance writer.

A Christmas Celebration for Women

A winter night of wonder and warmth — with a purpose. Rejoice invites you to ring in the season of Christ-with-us while supporting African women in their fi ght for recovery. Enjoy a myriad of desserts, breathtaking decorations, and a worshipful Christmas service with artist Jenny Simmons.

A portion of ticket sales will benefi t IBC partner ALARM and the Women’s Leadership Institute in D.R. Congo.

cost: $15

register: Visit irvingbible.org/women or the kiosk every Sunday in November.

kidzone: Register online by December 1.

questions: Email Amy at aaupperlee@irvingbible.org

Want to know more? See article, pg. 6.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 6:30-9 P.M.

Lauren with ALARM D.R. Congo Director Marie Jeanne

The Trauma and Healing Conference serves girls as young as 13. Penny (left) and Lauren (right).

There are over 200 ethnic groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Chatter | 6

CHATTER Thanks for chatting with us, Amy and Nichole! This is an exciting development! Can you paint a picture of the new event? What will it look like? Feel like?

NICHOLE BENTLEY Beauty, conversation, entertainment and food are at the heart of Rejoice! Some things will be familiar — bustling conver-sation, an amazing concert, ALARM with its beautiful beadwork and bags, abundant and pretty holiday decorations and plenty of delectable food. And, there will be lots to explore, specifi cally the three distinct areas — Peace, Love and Joy — that will extend out from the center of Town Square. Each area will feature a number of decorated lounges, decadent holiday desserts, a unique entertainment vignette and an engaging activity. It’s my hope that women will take the time to explore Peace, Love and Joy to have the full Rejoice experience before we take in the amazing music of Jenny Simmons.

AMY AUPPERLEE We prayed long and hard about what the new event would be called, and Rejoice quickly moved to the top, because we are rejoicing about the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrating how his birth made a way for us. And while conversation and yummy desserts sound like fun, we are also giving our women an opportunity to share their joy with others around the world by inviting them to participate in activity

There’s more to celebrate around IBC this Christmas season. Here’s why.

A WINTER NIGHT OF WONDER AND WARMTH — WITH A PURPOSE. Rejoice takes the place of the Christmas Dinner this year as a way to reimagine how to better serve the women of D.R. Congo while keeping all the joy, delight, and wonder of the traditional IBC event. Chatter caught up with IBC staffer Amy Aupperlee (Women at IBC Events Director) and volunteer coordinator Nichole Bentley to fi nd out more about what it will look like and why it’s evolving.

stations where they can make something tangible that will immediately impact someone around the world. And to top it all off , let me leave you with three of my favorite words: holiday coff ee bar.

CHAT You’ve mentioned to us that Rejoice is intended to be more acces-sible to women at IBC. What do you mean by that?

AA We want all women to feel welcomed to this event, and we want them all to come! We have lowered the ticket price and removed as-signed tables so that everyone has a place at all times. This is a very inclusive event, and we wanted to make sure that all women knew they had a place here.

And for those women who have been coming with their group for years — or if ladies want to invite coworkers or friends who don’t go to IBC — we want to encourage groups to meet up beforehand and go out to dinner! Afterward, they can all come together to Rejoice for desserts and fabu-lous entertainment.

NB A lower ticket price makes it aff ordable for more women. And making it the norm to purchase a single ticket removes the need to

Throughout its life, the average couch will host 782 visitors.

Chatter | 7

coordinate a complete table of 8-10 or fi nd replacements when life happens. We want women to feel free to simply take in the season, have margin and remove one more “to do” in a season that can become over-run with “to dos.”

CHAT Tell us more about how the new format increases the benefi t to ALARM’s initiatives in D.R. Congo.

AA In the past, the benefi t to the women in D.R. Congo was an unknown factor, because it all depended on how well IBC women liked the raffl e prizes. (Before this year, only proceeds from the raffl e went directly to D.R. Congo.) But this year, a portion of the ticket price will go straight to the Women’s Leadership Training Institute in D.R. Congo.

NB We all know from our grocery bills that prices have increased over the past 10 years, and the same was true for the dinner event even though we kept ticket prices the same. So, we’ve been able to reduce tickets prices AND have more margin.

CHAT For those women who love this season of decorating and putting together beautifully crafted tables, what are some new ways they can be involved?

NB We know how important creativity is for many women as they worship and celebrate this time of year, which is why I am so excited to introduce the Rejoice Lounges! Think of them as a small room in your home to decorate top to bottom. The lounges will be staged with IBC furniture of the decorator’s choosing, and the rest is up to her creative juices. These areas can be decorated by individuals, teams, small groups, Bible study tables or by a group of friends. For those who want to con-tribute their creativity on a smaller scale, we will set aside two days for

creative-types to come and fellowship while they build centerpieces for the tall, free-standing tables and large round tables that will be set up during the event. And, of course, we still need women the day of the event to help with fi nishing touches. 

AA Just between us, I’m really hoping someone creates an outdoor-feel-ing lounge with twinkle lights, evergreen and Christmas porch pillows!

CHAT Tell us about the special entertainment for the evening — Jenny Simmons.

NB A long-standing part of the evening that we did not even consider changing is capping it all off with entertainment. Jenny Simmons (of Addison Road acclaim) will be delighting us with her beautiful voice. If you attended Women’s Bible Study on October 6, you enjoyed a little sneak peek! 

CHAT What is the most exciting thing to you about this new chapter in the women’s Christmas event?

AA I’m plenty partial to my people, and I love my people, but as I get to know more and more women here at our church, my life gets richer. And better.  And those women teach me more and more about Jesus. I love that this year, I won’t have to stay at just one table with my friends. I am excited about the opportunity to connect with more people and build relationships. I am excited that we will have places all over the Town Square to connect with not only the women in our church, but women around the world. I am excited that this is an event for all women — the women of IBC coming together to celebrate the birth of Christ, and in turn, making a diff erence in the lives of women on the other side of the world. Needless to say, I am excited that so many women are connect-ing in so many diff erent ways. In Christ, we are all the same; we are all united by him, and this event is an opportunity to celebrate that unity in a very special way. 

NB The most exciting thing for me are the many ways the women of IBC will have to be the hands and feet of Jesus at the event. There will be many opportunities to serve and care for others at Rejoice without spending a dime. My personal favorite is the station where our women will be able to write notes of encouragement to the Congolese women who attend the Women’s Leadership Training Institute. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Jesus’ birth!

CHAT That sounds like magic. Thanks for sharing your hearts with us, Amy and Nichole. Save Chatter a spot on the couch.

Nichole and Amy

Chatter | 8

Passing the Peace“Peace begins

with a smile.” –Mother Teresa

Chatter | 9

Everyone remembers his or her first kiss. For some it was smooth and flawless, but for most of us it was extremely awkward. My first encounter was in the sixth grade with Monica Ramos. I just remem-ber how nervous I was, not knowing what to do with this newfound desire to be close to someone else’s face. I had seen it done on TV and I was grossed out many times by walking into the kitchen and catch-ing my parents engaged in a sloppy wet one, but I never thought I would have to do it. Insecure and uncomfortable doesn’t even come close to explain-ing how I felt at that moment. I was like a fish out of

water. Do I open my mouth, or do I purse my lips? Do I come 50% and let her come 50%? Or is it

60/40, and where is Hitch when you need him?

As it turns out, as far as I can remember, my first kiss went fine. “The Kiss” is an inter-esting phenomenon. It has the obvious romantic component to it but it can have a platonic or spiritual significance as well. For instance, if you grew up in the ancient Mediterranean part of the world, you’d be quite comfortable greeting someone by

kissing them on one or both cheeks. And to reject such a gesture could be quite offensive

because this is how people showed kindness and respect to those in their midst.

The Kiss had such a strong cultural influence in the Middle East that it eventually became a part of Christian worship. Five times in the New Tes-tament, the church is encouraged to “Greet one another with a Holy Kiss.” This greeting stuck with the church into the third century where it became known as “The Passing of the Peace.” This part of the liturgy usually happened right before the Lord’s Table when the congregation turns to one another

and says, “May the peace of Christ be with you,” which elicits the response: “and also with you.” This element evolved over the ages, like many

pieces of liturgy. Where it was once commonplace to Pass the Peace with a kiss, as a simple handshake became the norm as Christianity moved West.

In ancient liturgy, the peace was more than just the traditional greeting to which we’ve grown accus-tomed in the evangelical church. It was not merely a break in the service for small talk, but rather a point where each member of the congregation had a similar and equal task to that of the minister. It is a profound moment when we proclaim the peace that has been made available to us through Christ’s death and resurrection on the Cross. This gesture of mutual acceptance is rooted in humility, knowing that we all approach God on an equal plain.

It’s not a coincidence, then, that in some liturgies the Peace falls right before communion. To Pass the Peace serves as a reminder that there is inven-tory that needs to be done in our lives before we go

to the Table. Jesus gives us an example in Matthew chapter 5: “So when you are offering your gift at the alter…first be reconciled to your brother or sister and then come offer your gift.” And Timothy echoes this charge when he encourages us to, “confess our sins to one another.” When we turn to our neighbor and offer peace, we are saying aloud that we have been reconciled to God through the death of his son and we are therefore also reconciled with one another.

At IBC, we’ve reconnected with this beautiful piece of liturgy in our worship on Sundays. We recognize that we live in a culture that is driven by media, advertising and technology. As a result, we find ourselves fighting a self-centered, consumerist approach to worship. Passing the Peace helps us remember that we are not alone, but rather a com-munity of people on a journey together. Yes, some-times it can feel as awkward as that first kiss, but it’s important for us whenever we gather, to look at each other and acknowledge that we are in the game with other human beings.

South Africans have a word for this called “Abuntu,” which is a person that has a proper self-assurance knowing that he or she belongs in a greater whole. So let’s get comfortable with the awkwardness and proclaim the Peace of Christ that has been freely given to us all by our Creator and Lord. May we not be consumers of spirituality but rather participants in God’s story.

May the Peace of Christ be with you.

Jason Elwell will never kiss and tell.

Jason is IBC’s worship pastor.

Advent at IBC: TraditionsThe season of Advent is special at IBC. Along with Passing the Peace, here are some other elements integral to Advent at IBC and the worship experi-ence in general.

Advent Candles Three purple and one rose-col-ored candle circling the white Christ candle, reflecting the themes of expectation, prepara-tion, rejoicing, and anticipation.

Passing the Peace A sacred moment of connection at the beginning of the service, affirming the gathered body of Christ.

Prayers of the People A time of corporate prayer for those in need and those celebrating God’s provision.

Change for Benevolence fund All loose change given during IBC services directly benefits IBC’s benevolence fund. This is a year-round tradition.

Darkness Services during Advent are darker than normal IBC worship experi-ences. This signifies the darkness of our world as it awaits the light of the coming Savior.

Singing “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” The gathered IBC family sings this historic Advent hymn regularly during the season to express our longing for Christ-with-us.

Altar A place of personal response at the close of each message. Some people choose to light candles

— red, signifying new faith in Christ, or amber, signifying God’s presence and work in the individual’s life.

Passing the PeaceA real kiss quickens your pulse to 100 beats a minute.

“Hitch” star Will Smith was raised Baptist.

JOYMERCY STREET INTERN SARAH STEINMANN GOT MORE THAN SHE BARGAINED FOR THIS SUMMER.

Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge photo © Patrick Feller

Chatter | 11

A few days later, I applied for Mercy Street’s summer internship program.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned in college, it’s that oftentimes you have to take the first step and walk bravely (or not-so-bravely) down the path ahead. This summer, my path took me to the streets of West Dallas — specifically, to Mercy Street, a non-profit affiliated with IBC that “hopes to be used by God to spark Christ-honoring community restoration by engaging in mutually-transform-ing relationships with the future leaders of West Dallas.”

That’s a mouthful, for sure. To understand how I connected with that mission, let’s backtrack a little: I’ve attended IBC for the last nine years, since I was in fifth grade, and have been hugely impacted by its incredible teaching and leadership. A diehard Aggie, I’m now in my second year as a management major in the busi-ness school, and I’ve also been captivated by the great Good News of the Gospel.

This past summer, I joined Mercy Street’s internship program from June 2-August 10 as a college intern, which simply means I was one of seven life coaches for the 30 high school students from West Dallas whom Mercy Street mentors as part of its high school internship program. These students are intentionally discipled to grow in Christ while being taught valuable business skills. It was with these students that I walked, hiked, stumbled, and ran.

And Mercy Street does just that: it walks with people. With Mercy Street’s internship program, all college interns live with Mercy Street’s staff, and all staff members live in West Dallas (or close by). Mercy Street’s staff gets down in the nitty gritty of life in West Dallas; they get personal, welcome people into their homes, and tenaciously walk hand-in-hand — not ahead — of the people they love. And let me tell you: the people they love are absolutely incredible workmanships of God.

I saw that clearly, not only in West Dallas, but with the whole crew of Mercy Street high school and college interns as we embarked on our “bonding trip” through the mountains of Colorado for a week of backpacking in July. For a city girl, Colorado was one of those experiences I was “glad I had, but never want to have again.” Living in the woods for seven days, sharing one roll

of toilet paper with everyone, and waking up to a frozen white world every morning was hard, but good. Through the trip, and the hours of hiking, I gained a key insight: it’s in the walking, trodding, suffering, and laughing with people that we can plant the roots of deep relationships and make life-transforming con-nections that can’t be generated any other way.

First, I was taken aback by the real, inner beauty of my students, people like Marqreshea, a freshman high school student who loves her family deeply and serves with the best heart I’ve known. And there were others,

like Shena, a rockstar basketball player who is driven, whose work ethic amazes me, who carries herself with a quiet confidence I want to emulate. Then there’s Destiny, a friend full of joy who inspires others, as well as Rodayisha, Kalia, Kasie, Demondre, Tyrin, John, Donavan — the list goes on for thirty students.

I had expected to be confronted this summer with the brokenness of inner city life that can run rampant and create undeniable hurt in concentrated areas. And yes, I witnessed that pain-filled reality. But what I didn’t expect to see so clearly was my own sin and my new appreciation for God’s mercy. (Yes, the name Mercy Street was for me, too!) Certainly, I met kids with quick-firing, disrespectful tongues, but I was also broken in seeing how quickly my own identity can rely on the fickle opinions of others and how swiftly frustration can rise in my heart. I didn’t plan on rediscovering my own need for redemp-tion and that glorious, beautiful “knowing” that I am redeemed through Christ. I didn’t plan on seeing shalom, peace, grace everywhere. I didn’t expect to laugh so hard, to witness first-hand the pictures of renewal — snapshots of how God is working, moving, breathing, restoring.

If I were sitting across from a trusted friend right now, I would encourage her to take that first step in being a Mercy Street mentor. “Sure, it will take bravery and tenacity,” I would say. “But if you take that step of faith and walk forward, God will go with you. Who knows? He can use you to rebuild hope, to paint a more-hopeful future for a West Dallas boy or girl. And in the process, you can rediscover the joy of your own salvation.”

Of that unexpected joy, I’m walking proof.

Sarah Steinmann admits she suffers from GPS dependency; without it, she’s lost! You can always count on her for a ride, but to get there on time, you should always count on Siri.

Sarah is a sophomore business management major at Texas A&M.

Last Christmas break, I sat across from a trusted friend and confessed my concerns — and dreams — for the upcoming summer. How could God use me, just as I am? Where could I best invest my time with the gifts I’ve been given? She bravely looked me in the eyes and declared, “Sarah, I don’t know God’s plan for you, but if you take a step by faith and it’s not the right one, he’ll close that door. Trust him, and walk forward.”

Mercy Street ministers to the community of West Dallas primarily through mentoring students 4th grade through high school. It also connects with the community through Bible study, sports teams, leadership building and much more. If you would like to be involved in this ministry or would like more information, contact Jen at mercystreet@irvingbible.org.

Dallas is the birthplace of both the Slurpee and the microchip.

Dove Creek, Colorado is the “Pinto Bean” capital of the world.

Jean Beliveau took the longest walk around the world, completing 46,600 miles across 64 countries over 11 years.

Sarah takes a rest with Mercy Street

mentee Rodayisha.

Chatter | 12

THANKSGIVING AT IBC Each November, we take time out to remember all the ways God

has provided for us over the past year. We also remember those in our community who may say “thanks” but don’t have the means to prepare a big meal in celebration.

Join IBC again this year as we provide 1,500 bags of food for families in our community. You can drop a filled bag off at IBC, deliver the bags directly to our ministry partners, and even tour partner facilities to become aware of all they do for those in need.

Partner Pines

December 6–13 at IBC

Each Christmas, IBC sets out to bless its Partners, Missionaries and Global Family with practical resources and timely encouragement. Want to help out? Here’s how.

Local Partner Instructions1. Choose one or more of the ornaments on a tree.2. Give your name and phone # to the table host.3. Purchase your gift.4. Attach the ornament securely to the gift.5. Return it to the table host the next week (by December 13).

Global Partner Instructions1. Choose one or more of the ornaments on a tree.2. Write a check or talk with Table Host on how to donate funds on the spot. 3. Sign up for newsletters and updates from that partner or other partners.

Missionary & Global Family Instructions (Starts Advent Sunday, Nov 29 – Dec 13)1. Visit the Global Family table and read through prayer letters from our

Global Family and Missionaries. Take one home to pray for that individual. If you don’t know which to select, talk with the Table Host to learn more.

2. Write a note of encouragement to a missionary family. 3. Leave your note to be mailed with the Table Host.

Questions? Contact Lauren or Tricia at mission@irvingbible.org

Have A Peek at the Partners

The first decorated Christmas trees were adorned with apples, white candy canes and pastries. Yes. PASTRIES.

Chatter | 13

HERE’S HOW IT WORKSProvide a meal for a family in need:1. Grab a bag in Town Square Nov. 1 or 8, and fill it with items listed.2. Return filled bag to the baptismal at IBC no later than November 15.3. Deliver bags to our partners.

Various dates and times are available. This is a great ministry opportunity for your whole family!

Info & Sign Up irvingbible.org/thanksgivingmeals

For questions or help with delivery sign-up, contact Shannon at smiller@irvingbible.org.

IBC HAS 8 LOCAL PARTNERS.

New Friends New Life — Provides holistic support to women leaving the sex industry and their children.

Mercy Street — A holistic West Dallas ministry to students and their fami-lies. Provides mentoring, Bible study, sports teams, leadership building and more. See article, pg. 10.

Mercy House — A residential home for single, pregnant women. Provides physical and spiritual support through pregnancy and up to 6 months after.

The Main Place — Provides free, new clothing to homeless teens in Irving.

The Gatehouse — A supportive living community for women and their children in crisis.

Family Promise — Provides for the immediate needs of homeless families through local church hosts.

SchoolWorks — Supports teachers and at-risk students in our local schools through the Half Hour Hero reading & lunch buddy program.

Laundry Love — Provides once-a-month laundry assistance to the patrons of Amigo Laundromat.

IBC HAS 11 GLOBAL PARTNERS & IS INVOLVED IN 20 COUNTRIES.

Targeted Aquaponic Growth — Partners with orphanages, schools, and churches to reduce malnutrition through aquaponic systems.

ALARM — Equips African leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to transform their communities. See article, pg. 4.

Hosean International Ministries — Empowers Haitians with the Gospel through education, life skill coaching, and economic growth.

LEADLiberia — Trains and sustains the pastors of Liberia.

My Refuge House — A safe home in the Philippines for survivors of com-mercial sexual exploitation and abuse.

Water is Basic — Empowers South Sudan in the fight for clean water.

Kutch Ministry — An IBC ministry working among the Kutchi people in South Asia and East Africa.

Radio South Sudan — Builds and supports a network of Christian radio stations in South Sudan.

Workers Together with God — Serves Honduras through education, physical, and spiritual healthcare.

SEEK Partners International — A seminary and Bible translation ministry in Northern India.

Harvest Metanoia Arad — A church in Romania dedicated to unique community outreach programs.

For security reasons, our Missionaries and Global Family are not listed here. We encourage you to visit the designated tables during Partner Pines to learn more.

Think you know IBC’s partners? See this month’s Idle Chatter for Where In the World? — a partner photo guessing game. Page 19.

Since 2008, Water is Basic has drilled 500 wells, providing clean water for 10% of South Sudan’s population.

The Aztecs were probably the first to develop aquaponics.

Last year IBC donated 850 bags of food to those in need.

Chatter | 14

UPCOMING

NovemberNOVEMBER 1

Debby Wade at Marriage — 9 a.m.Join Marriage at IBC and Debby Wade for an open,

safe, and Christ-honoring discussion of sex in mar-

riage. Visit irvingbible.org/marriage.

The Table — 10:45 a.m.A relaxed, safe environment to discuss doubts and

questions about Christianity. irvingbible.org/thetable.

Thanksgiving Meals BeginsSee ad, pgs. 12–13.

Membership — 10:45 a.m.Join us for week one of the membership class where

you will hear from the elders. More info at irving-

bible.org/propel.

NOVEMBER 5

Fashioned For Freedom — 7 p.m.A fashion show benefitting IBC partner My Refuge

House. Tickets at fashionedforfreedom.eventbrite.com.

NOVEMBER 8

Membership — 10:45 a.m.Join us for week two of the membership class where

you share your faith story. More info at irvingbible.

org/propel.

In His Image Connect Night: Bowling!6:30–8 p.m.Join In His Image small group for adults with special

needs for a night of fun and connection. For more

info email Shannon at smiller@irvingbible.org

NOVEMBER 14

Writer’s WorkshopClass will meet offsite this month. Please visit bet-

tygroezinger.com for more info.

Registration Open for Single-Parent Christmas MallRegister at irvingbible.org/singleparents under the

“Kids’ Night Out” section. Email Marsha at mtrib-

bett@irvingbible.org with questions.

NOVEMBER 15

Thanksgiving Meals DueSee ad, pg. 12–13.

NOVEMBER 19

Recovery Eatin’ Meetin’See ad, pg. 16.

NOVEMBER 26

Thanksgiving Day BreakfastSee info below.

NOVEMBER 29

Advent Kick-OffSee info below.

Partner Pines BeginsSee ad, pgs. 12–13.

DECEMBER 6

Small Groups RegistrationSee ad, pg. 17.

DECEMBER 8

RejoiceSee ad, pg. 5.

JANUARY 24, 10:45 A.M.

Shop Talk with Mary Flo RidleyJoin Parenting at IBC for “How to Talk to Your Kids

about Sex.”

December

Save the Date

Advent Kicko� • November 29Join the IBC Family for festive fun as we ring in the season following each service in Town Square.

Live Music Family-friendly activities Refreshments (cookies and beverages)

Visit irvingbible.org/advent for more info.

REMINDER

Thanksgiving BreakfastNovember 26, 8–10:30 a.m. • The Commons

If you’re alone at Thanksgiving this year, or just want to get your people together with the IBC family, join us a for a great meal as we celebrate God’s goodness together.

Contact Rod or Karen with questions at smithfourtx@msn.com or (972) 221-1372.

SUNDAY COMMUNITY MEALS

6 p.m. — Town SquareMeals are $3 per person or $10 max./family.

11/1 Pizza, breadsticks, salad bar

11/8 Fajita Madness, chips and salsa, salad bar

11/15 All American burgers or brats, salad bar

11/22 Giant baked potatoes, chili, all the fixins’, salad bar

11/29 No meal. Happy Thanksgiving!

If you’d like to serve on a Sunday night meal team, contact Pat O’Reilly at (214) 289-6176 or sun-daynightmeal@irvingbible.org.

WEDNESDAY MIDWEEK MEALS5–6:20 P.M.

Cost is $3/meal or $10 max./family. PB&J sandwiches are also available.

11/4 Baked chicken quarters, green beans, fries, dessert. Hosted by Bob Downey’s Team.

11/11 Baked potatoes with all the fixins’, salad, dessert. Hosted by Lavern Howell’s team.

11/18 Lasagna, bread sticks, salad, dessert. Hosted by Mike Gwartney’s team.

11/25 No meal. Happy Thanksgiving!

Changes to the menu may be made depending on food cost, availability, and Bob Downey’s whim.

If you’d like to serve on a Wednes-day night meal team, please email bdowney@irvingbible.org.

CUPPA HOURS

Mon–Fri 9 a.m.–8 p.m.

Saturday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

BIBLE COMMUNITIESGroups on Sunday

Synergy9 a.m. — The AlcoveAll Welcome

The Tree9 a.m. — West D20s & 30s, married & young families

Crossroads10:45 a.m. — West CCouples & Families late 20s to 40s

Journey10:45 a.m. — The AlcoveAll Welcome

On Track10:45 a.m. — Conference RoomSingle Parents

Thrive10:45 a.m. — West DSingles in their 30s & 40s

Renew10:45 a.m. — Training CenterAll Welcome

Legacy Builders6:45 p.m. — West A — All Welcome

CHILDRENInfants Through 5th Grade

Children’s Sunday Services9 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 5 p.m.

Elementary MidweekBegins September 9, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Kids connect with friends and explore God’s word through small groups, food, fun! Visit irvingbible.org/elementarymidweek.

HOPE & HEALINGCommunity Care

Abortion Recovery CounselingContact Kym at (972) 560-4632 or kyeichner@irvingbible.org.

Recovery at IBCThursdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m. West Wing Youth LoungeA group for hurts, habits, and hangups. irvingbible.org/recovery.

Living Grace GroupFor those with mental illness. Contact Heath at heathmurry@yahoo.com.

Family Grace GroupFor families/caregivers of those with mental illness. Contact Buzz Moody at myrabuzz@gmail.com.

NAMI Family-to-Family ClassContact Joey at joey@netbreezeinc.com or Debra at eumoore@yahoo.com.Stephen Ministry at IBC One-on-one ministry for hurting people. Contact stephenministry@irvingbible.org or call (972) 560-4636.

Spousal Abuse RecoveryContact kyeichner@irvingbible.org.

MARRIAGEGrowing Together

Marriage at IBC Contact bmassey@irvingbible.org.

Pre-Marriage Mentoring Visit irvingbible.org/marriage.

MENCommunity and Resources

First WatchFridays, 6:22 a.m. — The Commons

“FIT” seriesContact Nat at npugh@irvingbible.org.

First Watch ReplayTuesdays, 6:30 p.m.Training CenterContact brianarrington1@yahoo.com.

First Watch Xtra Wednesday, 6:30 a.m.Training CenterContact bcope@huntoil.com.

Visit irvingbible.org/men.

MISSIONLocal and Global

Prayer Meeting2nd and 4th Wednesdays6:45-8 p.m. — The Chapel

Laundry LoveFirst Saturday of the month 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Contact laundrylove@irvingbible.org.

New Friends New LifeServe dinner to women healing from sexual exploitation (every third Wednesday). Contact Christine at newfriendsnewlife@irvingbible.org.

SINGLE PARENTCommunity and Resources

Sit with us on Sunday!9 a.m. service, lowest right-hand section, Rows 5 & 6, facing the stage. Visit irvingbible.org/singleparents.

SPECIAL NEEDSCommunity & Care

Small Group for MomsSundays, 9–10:15 a.m.

In His Image Bible StudySundays, 6:30–7:45 p.m

Small Group for ParentsWednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m.

SonShine Pals and RoomCare during Sunday ministry.

Contact specialneeds@irvingbible.org.

STUDENTSMiddle/High School and College

Middle School SundaysSundays — 10:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m.The Commons

High School SundaysSundays, 6:45–8 p.m. Student Ministries area

IBC College MinistrySundays, 3:30 p.m.The Commons AnnexContact college@irvingbible.org.

High School MidweekWednesdays, 6–8:30 p.m.Join us for Bible study and community. See website for location and schedule

Middle School, The WWednesdays, 6:30 p.m.Next Gen Area Join us for a time of friendships and teaching.

WOMENCommunity and Resources

Women’s Fall Bible StudyTuesdays, 9:30 a.m. or 6:30 p.m.The CommonsJoin us as we study Proverbs.

Visit irvingbible.org/women.

2435 KINWEST Wednesday Nights at IBC

IBC Choir Kicks Off 9/9Wednesdays, 7–8:30 p.m.IBC Worship CenterContact Crystal at celwell@irvingbible.org.

ESL: English as a Second LanguageWednesdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Haven B, C, D

Citizenship ClassWednesdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m.IBC Conference Room

IBC Career Transition MinistryWednesdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Microsoft Computer SkillsWednesdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m.The Training Center

Visit 2435kinwest.org.

ONGOING MEALS

RecoveryNovember 19, 6:30 p.m. Next Gen Area

If you’ve ever considered checking out IBC’s Recovery group but have never taken the next step, the Eatin’ Meetin’ is a great way to start. Recovery is for those struggling with hurts, habits, and hang-ups, and follows a Christ-Centered 12-step program.

More info: irvingbible.org/recovery

Single-Parent Service Project:

Saturday, November 7, 2015 The AlcoveGirls: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Boys: 1–3 p.m.

For kids in single-parent familiesA morning of fun, service, and free breakfast!

Includes:• A devotional on sharing & giving to others

• Time/supplies to decorate and fi ll shoeboxes

• Christmas card making

• Group photo for pics in Christmas cards

Register with Marsha at mtribbett@irvingbible.org or (972) 560-4653.

SMALL GROUPS AT IBC exist to cultivate deep relationships that advance the king-dom of God in dark places — dark places in our world, in our relationships, and in our hearts. Groups meet weekly in homes in to eat, pray, and learn. The curriculum, based on each week’s Sunday sermon, invites members to dig deeper into Scripture and share viewpoints and life experiences. Group sessions run 10 weeks.

Session begins January 3 (register at irvingbible.org/smallgroups before December 6). Questions? Contact Katie at kgeurin@irvingbible.org.

Feeling lost in the crowd?Sermon-based small groups are a great way to connect at IBC this winter.

RecoveryNovember 19, 6:30 p.m. Next Gen Area

If you’ve ever considered checking out IBC’s Recovery group but have never taken the next step, the Eatin’ Meetin’ is a great way to start. Recovery is for those struggling with hurts, habits, and hang-ups, and follows a Christ-Centered 12-step program.

More info: irvingbible.org/recovery

Single-Parent Service Project:

Saturday, November 7, 2015 The AlcoveGirls: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Boys: 1–3 p.m.

For kids in single-parent familiesA morning of fun, service, and free breakfast!

Includes:• A devotional on sharing & giving to others

• Time/supplies to decorate and fi ll shoeboxes

• Christmas card making

• Group photo for pics in Christmas cards

Register with Marsha at mtribbett@irvingbible.org or (972) 560-4653.

Chatter | 18

Merlyn is a fi ctional DC Comics supervillain (archenemy of Green Arrow), and current director of IBC's ministry to seniors.

HOW DO I GIVE?

My Time, Talents & SkillsFamily Promise Day Center VolunteersThe FP Day Center is where the adults go to devel-op a plan for housing and jobs while their kids are in school. If you could give a few hours a week or a month to spend helping at the Day Center, contact Merlyn at (469) 586-5374, or ma-n-me@msn.com.

Laptops Needed2435 Kinwest has a new Microsoft Computer Skills class. In order to best serve the community, they need 5-10 laptops. Donated laptops must have Microsoft Offi ce installed. Contact Shannon at 2435kinwest@irvingbible.org.

Main Place DonationsIBC Partner, The Main Place, needs NEW pillows and towels of all sizes; pillowcases/sheets; girls deodorant; nylon loofahs; manicure sets; cotton balls; q-tips. Drop off all new donations in the box marked The Main Place in IBC’s Donation Center. Contact Pam at themainplace@irvingbible.org.

Main Place VolunteersIf you have skills with electrical, plumbing, construction. HVAC, etc the Main Place in Irving could use some maintenance help. Contact Pam at themainplace@irvingbible.org.

Meal Team VolunteersIBC makes meals available both Sunday and Wednesday nights. These fun teams could use some additional volunteers to serve together. For Sundays, contact sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org. For Wednesdays, contact bdowney@irvingbible.org.

Medical Professionals NeededOur weekly medical clinic needs professional health care providers (MD, PA, FNP) to provide treatment for our patients. Volunteers serve on a rotating basis and do not need to serve every week. Contact Charles at cpierce@2435clinic.org.

Mentor Kids in Single-Parent FamiliesMen and women are needed for gender-specifi c mentoring of children from single-parent families. Contact Marsha at mtribbett@irvingbible.org.

Thanksgiving MealsProvide a meal to an Irving family this season. Get your bag and meal list in Town Square starting November 1. More info at irvingbible.org/thanksgivingmeals. See pg. 12

Visitor Follow-Up Team (Rex Greenstreet Ministry)We are looking for a volunteer to make calls or send welcome emails (or both) to new visitors from IBC. Training and coaching will be provided. Contact Sherri at ssharp@irvingbible.org.

My ResourcesOnline Giving OptionIf you would fi nd it more convenient to donate to the ministries of Irving Bible Church online, visit irvingbible.org/give.

FIND A PLACE TO SERVEYou’ve come a long way since that fi rst breath mint. You’ve been busy worshipping, learning, relating, and committing. And it’s at this point that you might start looking around at all the people who help create those events — ushers, greeters, meal team members, table hosts, small group leaders, and the like. Your next step now is to join them! Consider your passions, talents and spiritual gifts and then ask about a place to serve. Visit irvingbible.org/serve.

JOIN IN WORSHIPSo you found the address, a place to park, and a breath mint on the way in. Good work! If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already taken the fi rst step — attending a worship service. This is the fi rst and most important place to start, so keep coming. Become a regular. Make sure to fi ll out a Newcomer Card. Tell us a little about yourself and let us know how we can engage with you. Somebody will reach out to you this week. Visit irvingbible.org/connect.

We’re glad you asked. Here are the steps to take for having your questions answered, fi guring out the IBC story, and, if you’re feeling ready, plugging in.

CHECK OUT THE NEWCOMER GATHERINGSo you’re kicking the IBC tires? Good! We’re so glad you’re here. The Newcomer Gathering is a great opportunity to meet church leadership, learn what IBC is all about, and connect with other newbies in a fun, relaxed environment. Next Newcomer Gathering: January 2016

SIGN UP FOR PROPELAll right! You’re feeling the IBC vibe and want to see where you might get involved. Propel is a 4-week class that explores the IBC calling and culture, and how your unique personality and passions fi t in. Meet many of our pastors and directors of ministries at IBC. Next Propel: February 2016

JOIN A COMMUNITYYou’re fi ring on all cylinders but something is missing. And that something is a someone, or a group of someones. Enter sermon-based Small Groups, Women’s Bible Study, First Watch, and more. We encourage you to fi nd a group and connect authentically with others. See ad pg. 17.Visit irvingbible.org/adults.

Start

HOW DO I GET CONNECTED AT IBC?

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT IRVINGBIBLE.ORG/CONNECT OR LOOK FOR THE NEWCOMER GUIDES AT THE INFORMATION DESK.

Chatter | 19

WHERE IN THE WORLD?Maybe you’ve noticed: IBC has a lot of local and global partners. Some are big. Some are small. Some help orphans get clean water. Some help moms do laundry. The thing they all have in common? Cool photography. Can you guess where these shots were taken?

2 3

1A) Targeted Aquaponic Growth

B) Aladdin’s Market

C) Aqua Net

2A) Water is Basic

B) Race for the Cure

C) Hosean International Ministries

3A) Standing in The Gap

B) The Main Place

C) Norma’s Jeans

ANSWER KEY1 A) Targeted Aquaponic Growth.

TAG’s mission is to install AP systems in orphanages and schools in developing coun- tries to alleviate the effects of poverty and hunger. (tag2grow.org)

2 C) Hosean International Ministries. HIM is a ministry by Haitians, for Haitians. Its goal: to transform lives by pointing people to Jesus Christ through education, life skills training, and economic growth. (hosean.org)

3 B) The Main Place. TMP is a “store without a cash register,” providing clothing, accessories and styling consultations for homeless teens in Irving. (themainplaceirving.org)

1

Chatter | 18

Merlyn is a fi ctional DC Comics supervillain (archenemy of Green Arrow), and current director of IBC's ministry to seniors.

HOW DO I GIVE?

My Time, Talents & SkillsFamily Promise Day Center VolunteersThe FP Day Center is where the adults go to devel-op a plan for housing and jobs while their kids are in school. If you could give a few hours a week or a month to spend helping at the Day Center, contact Merlyn at (469) 586-5374, or ma-n-me@msn.com.

Laptops Needed2435 Kinwest has a new Microsoft Computer Skills class. In order to best serve the community, they need 5-10 laptops. Donated laptops must have Microsoft Offi ce installed. Contact Shannon at 2435kinwest@irvingbible.org.

Main Place DonationsIBC Partner, The Main Place, needs NEW pillows and towels of all sizes; pillowcases/sheets; girls deodorant; nylon loofahs; manicure sets; cotton balls; q-tips. Drop off all new donations in the box marked The Main Place in IBC’s Donation Center. Contact Pam at themainplace@irvingbible.org.

Main Place VolunteersIf you have skills with electrical, plumbing, construction. HVAC, etc the Main Place in Irving could use some maintenance help. Contact Pam at themainplace@irvingbible.org.

Meal Team VolunteersIBC makes meals available both Sunday and Wednesday nights. These fun teams could use some additional volunteers to serve together. For Sundays, contact sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org. For Wednesdays, contact bdowney@irvingbible.org.

Medical Professionals NeededOur weekly medical clinic needs professional health care providers (MD, PA, FNP) to provide treatment for our patients. Volunteers serve on a rotating basis and do not need to serve every week. Contact Charles at cpierce@2435clinic.org.

Mentor Kids in Single-Parent FamiliesMen and women are needed for gender-specifi c mentoring of children from single-parent families. Contact Marsha at mtribbett@irvingbible.org.

Thanksgiving MealsProvide a meal to an Irving family this season. Get your bag and meal list in Town Square starting November 1. More info at irvingbible.org/thanksgivingmeals. See pg. 12

Visitor Follow-Up Team (Rex Greenstreet Ministry)We are looking for a volunteer to make calls or send welcome emails (or both) to new visitors from IBC. Training and coaching will be provided. Contact Sherri at ssharp@irvingbible.org.

My ResourcesOnline Giving OptionIf you would fi nd it more convenient to donate to the ministries of Irving Bible Church online, visit irvingbible.org/give.

FIND A PLACE TO SERVEYou’ve come a long way since that fi rst breath mint. You’ve been busy worshipping, learning, relating, and committing. And it’s at this point that you might start looking around at all the people who help create those events — ushers, greeters, meal team members, table hosts, small group leaders, and the like. Your next step now is to join them! Consider your passions, talents and spiritual gifts and then ask about a place to serve. Visit irvingbible.org/serve.

JOIN IN WORSHIPSo you found the address, a place to park, and a breath mint on the way in. Good work! If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already taken the fi rst step — attending a worship service. This is the fi rst and most important place to start, so keep coming. Become a regular. Make sure to fi ll out a Newcomer Card. Tell us a little about yourself and let us know how we can engage with you. Somebody will reach out to you this week. Visit irvingbible.org/connect.

We’re glad you asked. Here are the steps to take for having your questions answered, fi guring out the IBC story, and, if you’re feeling ready, plugging in.

CHECK OUT THE NEWCOMER GATHERINGSo you’re kicking the IBC tires? Good! We’re so glad you’re here. The Newcomer Gathering is a great opportunity to meet church leadership, learn what IBC is all about, and connect with other newbies in a fun, relaxed environment. Next Newcomer Gathering: January 2016

SIGN UP FOR PROPELAll right! You’re feeling the IBC vibe and want to see where you might get involved. Propel is a 4-week class that explores the IBC calling and culture, and how your unique personality and passions fi t in. Meet many of our pastors and directors of ministries at IBC. Next Propel: February 2016

JOIN A COMMUNITYYou’re fi ring on all cylinders but something is missing. And that something is a someone, or a group of someones. Enter sermon-based Small Groups, Women’s Bible Study, First Watch, and more. We encourage you to fi nd a group and connect authentically with others. See ad pg. 17.Visit irvingbible.org/adults.

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HOW DO I GET CONNECTED AT IBC?

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT IRVINGBIBLE.ORG/CONNECT OR LOOK FOR THE NEWCOMER GUIDES AT THE INFORMATION DESK.

Chatter…you CAN take it with you. Send us your Chatter photos on location, and you may see yourself in an upcoming issue. Email us at chatter@irvingbible.org.

A Ray-Ban®-less Chatter squints against the Colorado sun with the Borman family high in the Rockies at Hoosier Pass.