DECEMBER 2015
TA B L E O F CO N T E N TS
04 CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 06 WORSHIP+MEDIA 08 MISSIONS 10 ACT NOW 11 GREATER UPDATE 12 WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEALS 13 PASTOR ANNIVERSARIES
14 LIFE GROUPS 15 INFELLOWSHIP 16 CALENDAR 19 CREST CAMP (PRESCHOOL) 22 MIDDLE SCHOOL 24 HIGH SCHOOL 25 UNIVERSITY
26 YOUNG ADULTS 27 SINGLES 28 ISRAEL TRIP 29 SR ADULTS 30 WOMEN’S MINISTRY 31 SOUTHCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
I want to thank you for picking up this issue of Southcrest Life! I have had the opportunity to see how our church is impacting the community of Lubbock as well as the world with the life-changing message of the Gospel. Whether it is through our Sunday morning services, Southcrest Christian School, or one of our many other ministry areas, you'll see that God is growing the influence of Southcrest like never before. It is our hope that within these pages you will get a true glimpse of what God is doing at Southcrest. We are blessed to be a multigenerational church, so you'll see how God is moving in our children's ministries, student ministries, college, young adults, and senior adults. Through Act Now you'll see how Southcrest is partnering with 16 different organizations and many other churches to
get people serving the community. And in the Missions section you'll hear all about how you can go across the street, nation, or even overseas to help deliver the life-changing message of Jesus. Communication can be an overwhelming task at a church like Southcrest, but it is so very important for us to remember that we must always be communicating the message of the Gospel in every way we can. The most important thing for us to communicate is what God is doing in our lives. That's why in Southcrest Life we'd like to start an entire section devoted to people's testimonies. Starting now, you can send your story of life change to
[email protected]. We believe that the gospel is transforming lives and we’d like to start sharing some of those stories!
OUR MISSION S E N D YO U R S TO R Y TO To lead people into a life-changing
[email protected] relationship with Jesus Christ
BRIAN JONES
ASSOCIATE PASTOR OF WORSHIP & COMMUNICATION
Look for us on social media Facebook Southcrest Instagram @Southcrest Twitter @SouthcrestLBK
Contributers
under direction of
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JERRY NEWMAN
ADAM RICKMAN
MISTI BEAVER
Executive Pastor of Worship + Media
Designer
Administrative Assistant
for Worship & Media SOUTHCREST.org
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SR ADULT GOOD NEWS CHOIR CHRISTMAS MUSICAL
DECEMBER 9 “When Earth Received Her King” 6:00pm in the Worship Center
CHILDREN’S CHOIR CHRISTMAS MUSICAL Sunday, December 13 at 6:00pm
SOUTHCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PRESENTS: “THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER” Wednesday, December 16 at 6:00pm
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE
4:00PM FOR CHILDREN & THEIR FAMILIES
5:15PM & 6:30PM 4
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Could we live the spirit of Christmas through the year? As followers of Christ, we need to be about the work of the kingdom. Loving one another as well as people we come across in our lives, will speak the truth of the gospel. Saint Augustus said, “Preach the gospel and when necessary use words” Your life is a sermon. As we make our way around town, be mindful that people will see a message in how you live and speak. Sorry for the lecture, but these are areas that I am personally working on with God’s leadership. God has blessed us with a great line-up for Christmas this year. December 6: Southcrest Christmas presented at 4:00 & 6:30pm. December 9: Good News Choir Christmas Musical at 6:00pm. December 13: Children’s Choir Christmas Musical at 6:00pm. December 16: Southcrest Christian School presents: “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at 6:00pm. December 24: Christmas Eve Services at 4:00 (For families with children), 5:15 and 6:30pm for the community and church family.
WORSHIP & MEDIA I love this time of year. We enter into this season with joy and thankfulness for all that God has done for each of us individually and as a cooperate body (a family) of believers. During the Thanksgiving to Christmas season, I am grateful to be able to spend a little more time with family. I also enjoy the special family times we have as a church. I love Christmas music; in fact I have been listening to these songs since July. It is my job to find the songs that God has for us over this time of year so I am required to start early. By the time you read this, our house will be decorated and Christmas music will have filled our home since November 2.
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I love the song from the “Peanuts Christmas Special”: Christmas time is here, happiness
and cheer. Fun for all that children call their favorite time of the year. Snowflakes in the air, carols everywhere, olden times and ancient rhymes of love and dreams to share. Sleigh bells in the air beauty everywhere. Yuletide by the fireside and joyful memories there. Christmas time is here, we’ll be drawing near. Oh, that we could always see such spirit through the year. Oh, that we could always see such spirit through the year.” Two lines in particular really stick out to me. “We’ll be drawing near” and “Oh, that we could always see such spirit through the year.” Will you draw near this year? God made it easy for us to draw near to Him by sending His only Son into the world. Mary was instructed to name Him “Emmanuel” meaning “God with us.” Do you know Jesus? He is the way to the Father and contrary to popular belief, JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY.
Come celebrate the birth of Emmanuel with us. We want to wish each of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the worship/media team and the Newman family.
UPCOMING April 11-20, 2016 Italy Mission Trip
SUNDAY TV & RADIO SCHEDULE Due to an expanded FOX NFL Pregame Show, Southcrest will be moving to Lubbock’s CW and FOX34 News Now. SUNDAYS ON
Fox34 News Now.............7am Lubbock’s CW................10am KCBD11.....................10:30am KMAC28.......................5:30pm FM87.7.........................9:30am There are over 22,000 people watching SouthcrestLIVE weekly on television!
Jerry Newman Executive Pastor of Worship/Media
[email protected]
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MISSIONS LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING
December is the month we focus on our offering for International Missions. Our church goal this year is $250,000. All of the money received will go to the International Mission Board to help support 4,200 missionaries, including several from Southcrest, that serve around the world. Other ways to give include using the Global Missions line on the offering envelope or online. Through our financial gifts we can help share the gospel around the world as we support our missionaries.
V A N C O U V E R S T R E E T S ////////
VANCOUVER PARTNERSHIP
We have begun our partnership with River Community Church in Vancouver, British Columbia. This is a new North American Mission Board church plant led by Brad Forlow. Brad & his wife Rhonda have 3 children, Lauren (13), Rachel (11) and Ian (9). They were living in the Dallas area when God called them to begin a new work in Vancouver. As part of this partnership, Southcrest will be sending 3 teams to Vancouver in 2016; March 12-20, June 26-July 2 and Sept 17-24. Brad shares these prayer requests: • An awakening to the truth of Jesus • Protection from spiritual warfare for his family & those they reach • Development of their core team • New opportunities to serve others & share the gospel • The building of trusting friendships
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UPCOMING MISSION TRIPS IN 2016 MARCH 12-20 — VANCOUVER A team of 10 University Students will be working with 2 churches, focusing on Internationals. APRIL 22-30 — MIDDLE EAST A team of 6 is needed to deliver food & supplies to refugees and for community development. The cost will be approximately $2,250 per person.
How can you help? Begin by praying for Brad, his family and River Community Church. Ask God if you should be a part of one of the teams to Vancouver. GALLUP, NM PARTNERSHIP
Rob & Michelle McIntosh moved to Gallup in September to begin a work with the Navajo, as part of Youth Evangelism Strategies. They have 3 grown daughters; Jeanette, Kayla and Ashley. The goal of Youth Evangelism Strategies is to share the gospel with children & youth through summer camps, after school tutoring and job training. They are starting a new church, Creator’s Fellowship, which will be a vital part of the ministry. Southcrest had a mission team in Gallup this past Oct to help with construction projects and cutting firewood. Pray about your involvement on one of our 2 teams to Gallup in 2016; May 9-14 and Sept. 26-30. (There is also the possibility of a team during late July or early August to lead a sports camp.) Pray with Rob & Michelle for the following:
V A N C O U V E R S K Y L I N E ////////
JUNE 26-JULY 2 — VANCOUVER A team of 10 is needed to conduct end-of-school block parties, community service projects and community outreach. Approximate cost $1,750 per person SEPT 17-24 — VANCOUVER Our team of 10 will partner with River Community Church at the Salmon Festival and on other community service projects. Approximate cost is $1,750 per person. SEPT 26-30 — GALLUP, NM This team of 8 will do construction work, and cut and haul firewood. Cost is $200 per person. G A L L U P T E A M P R O J E C T ////////
• Additional core team members • Development of their core team
• Open doors for outreach into the community • Ladies Bible study led by Michelle
OCT 8-15 — SOUTH ASIA A team of 6 is needed for evangelism, community development and outreach. Approximate cost will be $2,250. NOV 3-13 — SOUTHEAST ASIA The focus of this team of 8-10 will be teaching very basic English at a youth center and doing community outreach. Approximate cost will be $2,250 per person.
• Building new relationships in the community
• Getting settled into a new home and community
MAY 9-14 — GALLUP, NM This team of 8 will focus on small construction projects and community outreach. Approximate cost is $200 per person.
G A L L U P N M S C E N E ////////
NOV 27-30 — DALLAS Our team of 20 will work at the OCC distribution center preparing shoe boxes for shipment around the world. Approximate cost is $200 per person. (These dates subject to change depending on the OCC schedule)
F I R S T N A T I O N S ////////
DISASTER RELIEF
Southcrest hosted a disaster relief training class on November 7 and 20 of our members participated in that training. They will become the core of our new disaster relief team. There will be additional training opportunities in the spring for those of you who were not able to attend this class.
For more information contact Gary at 797-9000 or
[email protected]. GARY BEATY
DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS SOUTHCREST.org
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Act Now Rewind //// 2015 Service Projects Let me say a great big thank you to all of you that are participating in our building program. The Greater program has done two wonderful things, provide the money needed for the new building, and it has provided tremendous blessings for those participating. What a blessing to know that you have helped build the most beautiful church in Lubbock. This is a major project and it gives us opportunity for tremendous blessings.
Please pray about your part in building for the glory of God’s Kingdom. You can give in several ways: InFellowship (Turn to page 15 or contact the church office at 806.797.9000 for more information) Online: Automatic draft from checking Online: Automatic draft from debit/credit card
I know it seem as if things are moving painfully slow. There are things happening. We have set grade and elevation. The Geo-tech engineers have finished their work and we have power lines installed. Sub-grade elevations are now finished. Piers will be drilled in the next few days. Pre-slab plumbing, electrical and audio-visual-sound work is scheduled. We will have fabricated anchor bolts, re-bar, and other steel on site very soon. When all material is on site, we will begin drilling piers. After the piers and footing are finished, we will pour the slab. That is what we know as the “floor.” Around the first of the year you will see red steel on site. They will start erecting immediately. Things will start to move quickly. These certainly are exciting times. Continue to pray for the project and the safety of all involved.
By using a giving kiosk with your debit/credit card Using text to give Check/Cash in offering plate The task seems huge, but each of us giving some will accomplish the goal.
Southcrest.org/greater Start praying now and prepare your heart for future service opportunities. Big things are coming in 2016! 10
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To see stories of life-change, conceptual drawing, and give to the greater initiative. Check out the live stream of construction while you are there.
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WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEALS December 2, 2015
December 9, 2015
December 16, 2015
Chicken Strips, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Green Beans, Roll, Dessert
Bar-B-Q on a Bun, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Dessert
Ham, Sweet Potatoes, Potato Salad, Mixed Vegetables, Roll, Desert
Kids Meal - Same
Kids Meal - Same
Kids Meal - Same
SENIOR PASTOR September - 24 Years
EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF ADULT MINISTRIES October - 15 Years
PRICING
ASSOCIATE PASTOR OF ADULT MINISTRY AND SINGLES November - 4 Years
EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION October - 2 Years
EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF WORSHIP AND MEDIA
December - 10 Years
6th Grade & up................................$5.00 1st-5th Grade & 55+.........................$3.50 Kindergarten & under.................. FREE Family Maximum.......................... $17
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LIFE GROUPS BE A PART OF THE SOUTHCREST LIFE/SUNDAY SCHOOL GROUPS (Sunday Morning Bible Studies for all ages)
Building a community of believers devoted to
Love Instruction Fellowship Evangelism
inFellowship membership
HOW DO I GET AN INFELLOWSHIP ACCOUNT? 1.) Log-on to www.southcrest.org 2.) Click Member Log-in at the top 3.) Sign Up for an account 4.) Sign On and see how InFellowship can help you connect with Southcrest
WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH YOUR INFELLOWSHIP LOG-IN? - Find a Small Group at Southcrest - Connect with the members within your group - Take roll for the groups you lead on Sunday Mornings - Join the Online Church Directory - Update your Church Directory information and privacy settings - Give Safely Online and schedule reoccurring payments to the fund of your choice
Need a place to attend... check out the brochures at the Welcome Center racks, or find a small group on southcrest.org under ministries.
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DECEMBER SUN DAY
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MONDAY
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T UE SDAY
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W E D NE S DAY
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TH U R S DAY
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F R I DAY
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SATU R DAY
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Meal 5:00pm – Worship Center Men’s Prayer 7:30am – Room 1003 Women’s Precept Bible Study 9:00am – Parlor Bible Study: Christianity, Cults, & World Religions 6:00pm – Parlor Men’s Bible Study 7:00pm – Room 1010
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8 Men’s Prayer 7:30am – Room 1003 Kindred Kinnections Scrapbooking 9:30am
8:00am 9:30am & 11:00 Worship Services Southcrest Christmas 4:00 & 6:30pm – Worship Center
Pray for America Meeting 6:30pm – Room 1003
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Bible Study 6:00pm – Worship center Awana 5:45pm Single’s Bible Study – 6:00pm MS & HS – 6:20pm upstairs
Senior Adult Christmas Lunch – 11:30am – Worship Center
Choir & Orchestra Rehearsal 7:00pm – Worship Center
University Worship 8:30pm – Upstairs in the University Room
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Choir & Orchestra Christmas Party 6:30pm – Worship Center Parent Shopping Day
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Meal 5:00pm – Worship Center Senior Adult Choir Presentation – 6:00pm Awana 5:45pm
Women’s Precept Bible Study 9:00am – Parlor
Single’s Bible Study – 6:00pm
Bible Study: Christianity, Cults, & World Religions 6:00pm – Parlor
MS & HS – 6:20pm upstairs
Men@6:11 – Parlor
Life Fellowship Childcare
Choir & Orchestra Rehearsal 7:00pm – Worship Center
University Worship 8:30pm Upstairs in the University Room
Kindred Kinnections Women’s Game Night 7:00pm
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University Worship 8:30pm – Upstairs in the University Room
Senior Adult Trip to Ragtown Gospel Theater in Post
8:00am 9:30am & 11:00 Worship Services
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Men’s Bible Study 7:00pm – Room 1010
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The Church Wide Calendar has been conveniently placed at the center of the magazine. This will allow you to pull the calendar out and take it on the go. To avoid page tear, fold page 16 & 17 together and pull out.
Mops 9:30am
Southcrest Christian School 6:00pm “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Men’s Prayer 7:30am – Room 1003 8:00am 9:30am & 11:00 Worship Services Children’s Choir Christmas Musical 6:00pm in the Worship Center
Pray for America Meeting 6:30pm Room 1003
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Bible Study: Christianity, Cults, & World Religions 6:00pm – Parlor Men’s Bible Study 7:00pm – Room 1010
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Wednesday Night Meal CANCELLED Choir & Orchestra Rehearsal CANCELLED Awana 5:45pm Deadline to sign up for the Israel Trip
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Men@6:11 – Parlor
Christmas Eve Family Service 4:00pm Pray for America Meeting 6:30pm – Room 1003
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Chrsitmas Eve Service 5:15 & 6:30pm
Merry Christmas!
Offices closed for Christmas
Offices closed
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No Sunday School Classes 9:30 & 11:00 Services in the Worship Center and Venue Only
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Single’s New Year’s Eve Party
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PRESCHOOL MINISTRY Parent Shopping Day will be Saturday, December 5th from 1:00-4:30pm. This is a time that parents can bring their children to the church so parents can go Christmas shopping. Steve Winger will be presenting a presentation about Christmas. Cost is $5.00 per child. Make reservations at the preschool desk. The deadline to sign up will be Sunday, November 29th. LIFE Fellowship will be Friday, December 11th from 6:00-9:30pm. Sign up in your Sunday School class. Deadline to sign up will be December 6th. Winter is in the air which means fun and exciting things are going on in the Preschool! Trunk or Treat was a huge success and what an awesome way to minister to those that don’t currently have a church home, are lost, as well as our own congregation.
Kid’s Day Out has taken the 3 and 4 year olds to Gallagher’s Apple Orchard and had a wonderful time learning about how apples grow on trees and that God truly supplies all of our needs through the things He has created for us. November 19 th, KDO celebrated Thanksgiving together with our Annual Thanksgiving Feast. We had so much fun watching our 3 and 4 year old classes perform. This holiday season, please know that we are thankful for you and your family and celebrate with you the true Reason for the Season. The Preschool collected cans of Cranberry Sauce for the ActNow ministry to help the Dream Center supply food baskets to the needy.
U PCOMI N G
Parent Shopping Day
Saturday, December 5th 1:00pm – 4:30pm
LIFE Fellowship
Friday, December 11th 6:00-9:30pm
In October our kids enjoyed a night of decorating pumpkins, watching movies and eating popcorn.
JERRI DOGGETT
DIRECTOR OF
PRESCHOOL MINISTRIES
[email protected] SOUTHCREST.org
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Look for us on social media Twitter @crestkids Instagram @crest_kids Facebook crestkids
Upcoming Events Christmas Eve Children’s Service Thursday, December 24, 2015 4:00pm
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Worship Center and Gym to Follow for Cupcakes and Giveaways Big Gig Sunday, December 27, 2015
Trunk or Treat 2015 at Southcrest was a huge success. We had over 1,500 people come and visit, get candy, jump on jumps and eat hot dogs. We are excited about all the people who requested info and can’t wait to get them plugged in at Southcrest. A great big “Thank You” to all who helped by volunteering a trunk, working the jumps, driving golf carts, and serving and preparing the food. Southcrest people truly are the best kind of people with huge hearts willing to serve and reach the Lubbock community with the gospel of Christ.
9:30am In the Dock NO SUNDAY SCHOOL but we will have Big Gig
PAM COPELAND
DIRECTOR OF
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES
[email protected] 806-773-9004
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We ended the Fall with our annual Fall Retreat to Fort Lone Tree. We had such a great time getting away from everything and enjoying the outdoors, the fellowship of one another, and the many great adventures at Fort Lone Tree. Some of the adventures we had included: Zip Lines, the Giant 3 person swing, and the High Ropes Course! We are already looking forward to returning next Fall!
Can you believe that Fall is already over?! I’m not sure if I am ready for this Lubbock winter yet, but here it is upon us. Thankfully, we have our family and friends here at Southcrest to warm our hearts, and the Middle School students to keep us busy! Middle School students had a blast this Fall getting plugged into the many opportunities to serve here at Southcrest. A couple of ways for students to serve at Southcrest are first, in The ‘Crest Student Leadership Team. Being a part of this team is a serious commitment from the students, where we give the students an opportunity to learn how to become more effective leaders among their peers. The ‘Crest Student Leadership Team meets every week to go over what is planned for our Wednesday Night Worship time. In this meeting, the team plans a skit that goes along with the Bible passage we will be learning that week, and also a game for the students to participate in.
A second way for students to serve at Southcrest is being part of The ‘Crest Middle School Worship Team. We have many talented middle school students who love to use their gifts to serve God. The Worship Team meets every week, where they prepare and practice songs for our Wednesday Worship time. It is a joy to hear and see the students lifting up the only name that is worthy of our praise, King Jesus!
Meet our new Middle School Intern, Emily Ritchie! Her skills are far superior than that of any other intern that ever interned! We are lucky to have her on board with us. If you haven’t gotten the opportunity to meet her yet, you’re missing out!!
Music and song lyrics are a way I find that God speaks to me. I enjoy playing in the praise band because I can help lead worship, so other kids can hear God speak to them. - Darby Lewis
IMPORTANT DATES IN DECEMBER I love being part of the Leadership team at church, because it reminds me that even though we are young, we can make an impact on others’ walk with God, and grow in our relationship with Him at the same time. It’s a great experience because it really connects and involves me in the Middle School Ministry. - Macey Hair
Christmas Event with Lubbock Impact Wednesday, December 9, 2015 @ 5:45pm We will not meet for Wednesday Night Worship on December 16th, 23rd, or the 30th. We will also not meet for Sunday School on December 27th. Please take this time to enjoy family and the holidays.
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The retreat was a great time to get away from all the distractions and spend time with my friends and family. It really made an impact on me when, in my small group during worship, Mike, one of the leaders, challenged us to show our faith at school, to plant seeds and allow God to water them." - Nicholas Carroll
Look for us on social media Twitter @sc_students Instagram @sc_students Facebook southcrest students*
RICHARD CREWS
ASSOCIATE PASTOR OF MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS
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December is here. I’m sure many of you can feel their pain, but the beginning of December is exam time for our students. Please keep them in prayer and encourage them if you see them around town or at church. Also, several of our students will be heading back home for the Christmas break. Let’s pray God will keep them safe and provide a refreshing time with friends and family.
W H AT D O YO U
LOVE ABOUT
SOUTHCREST “I love how easy it is to build strong relationships with others who are going through the same things as you.” - Katie Ritchie “I like Southcrest because it is a place where I know I can worship my Creator with my brothers and sisters. It’s a place for me to open up and feel the presence of Christ, knowing I am safe and loved.” - Channing Wicks “It’s a gospel-centered and Christcentered outlook on every aspect of life, which is a wonderful encouragement to love God and love others all the more.” - Zach Dean “Southcrest was hands down the best decision I have made for my life. It’s such a great community of people who truly want a better relationship with God. It’s my favorite place to be and what I look forward to throughout the week.” - Caitlyn Mercer “The amount of passion for Christ everyone has is something that will stay with me forever.” -Dane Letkeman
“The Southcrest staff is ALWAYS happy to meet new people and greets everyone with a smile.” - Jordan LeBlanc
“I love that everyone I talk to has a smile on their face and is very welcoming.” -Jasmine Smith
“The pastors do a great job of making the Bible relatable to us and they use humor to help us understand the text.” - Bailey Hair
“I love that everyone is cheerful and welcoming. I love that I can be myself with no judgment.” - Kianna Wilson
“I love the way we are able to worship and sing praise to the Lord!” - Ramsey Taylor
“I love the people at Southcrest.” - Ryan Mercer
“I love circle groups (student led discipleship small groups.)” - Korbin Conatser “I like circle groups, and Wednesday night worship.” - Reagan Stewart “I love how everyone includes each other.” - Kyndal Riewe “I love Southcrest because of the fellowship we have together and that the church loves Jesus and people well.” - Beau Sutton “I love the friendliness of the people here at Southcrest.” - Jonathan Rhodes “I love that we are all so close to each other.” - Molli Louder
“I love circle groups.” - Ben Rodriguez
“I love Southcrest’s world vision and passion for the bigger picture.” - Caden Norman “One thing I love about Southcrest is the friendly, uplifting environment.” - Mindi Rhoades
The fall semester has been awesome. God is doing some great things in our University
Ministry. We finished up our series through the book of Daniel on Thursday nights and are now going through the book of James. It’s been so cool to see how practical God’s Word is for everyday life. Also, we are finding our sermon-based home groups to be effective. On Tuesday and Wednesday nights our students meet in host homes throughout Lubbock to talk through the previous Thursday night’s biblical text. Relationships are being built and God’s Word is being driven into our hearts. Good stuff! Speaking of good stuff, we’re pumped about the opportunity to go to the 2016 Passion Conference in Houston! Passion is a conference for high school seniors and university students that seeks to foster spiritual awakening. This is our first year to go and students can’t wait! We’ll be
“I really just love the people! They are really nice and comforting. They make you feel like home.” - Kaden Wilson
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Thanks for all of your continued support, prayers, and encouragement! Brandon and Lauren Hays
Look for us on social media
“I love how everyone is so welcoming. I feel so loved every time I walk through the doors!” - Ashlyn Bradshaw
Twitter @southcrestu Instagram @southcrestu
BRANDON HAYS
ASSOCIATE PASTOR OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
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gone January 1-4 and would love for you to pray for us. Some of the speakers include Francis Chan, John Piper, Louie Giglio, Ravi Zacharias and more. Worship artists include Chris Tomlin, David Crowder, Rend Collective and Hillsong United. Check.
Facebook Southcrest University Ministry
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FOR SINGLE ADULTS: FINDING TRUE CONTENTMENT It’s the holiday season again––a time when we’re reminded to rejoice, to be thankful, and to celebrate. Yet, for many people the holiday season is anything but blissful. For some––Single Adults included––this time of year may trigger a bout of the blues or ignite a disappointment that has been smoldering under the surface for months. It becomes hard to embrace contentment.
Upcoming December 11, 2015 LIFE Fellowship 6:00pm January 2016 Mom2Mom
As beautiful as true contentment is, it’s not always that common. It is easy to look across the street, across the office, and even across the Internet and want something someone else has. With each new thing that comes into our lives, there is someone wishing to be
March 4-5, 2016 Men’s Retreat
in our place. One initial step into discontentment
can be through comparison. Why isn’t my life like so-and-so’s life? Why don’t I have what they have?
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OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
MOM2MOM
A huge thank you to the classes and people that participated in the Operation Christmas Child project. On November 13, serveral shoeboxes were packed by the young adult department and are ready to be shipped out to those in need. This is the second year in a row the department has taken on this project that will be sure to bless many children around the world.
The Southcrest Mom2Mom Ministry will begin new Bible studies in January. We encourage moms of all ages to join our Bible studies, as well as young women who are expecting or even hope to become a mom one day! If you would like more information about the upcoming Mom 2 Mom ministries, please email Randi DeVore at
[email protected]
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This leads to a second tragic mark of the discontent life: complaining. Oh, how easy is it is for us to complain when things don’t go our way! We complain about the traffic, weather, taxes, bills, food, prices, bosses, family, and so much more. A spirit of complaint borders on tragic because it’s really impossible to complain without bringing charges against God. If God is sovereign and in control, then complaining is ultimately a form of rebellion against Him.
DEAN STANZIONE DIRECTOR OF YO U N G A D U L T S
[email protected]
The real root, then, of discontentment is a lack of faith in God’s goodness. When we go through difficulty, adversity, or even seasons of waiting, we can be tricked into doubting that God really cares for us like He says He
does. We begin to misunderstand God’s plan in our pain, and slowly we forget. The first temptation in the history of mankind was the temptation to question God’s goodness. And so discontentment is the ultimate offense, the belief that God is not good, that He can’t be trusted, and that we must look elsewhere for our happiness. Thankfully, we are not left to such a tragic perspective on life. To cultivate true contentment, we must first believe that God is a good, caring Father. We recognize that every circumstance calls us to be either thankful or patient. The content heart is full of thanksgiving for all of God’s good gifts and is patient through adversity, recognizing even when we don’t understand, we can trust His hand. As Hebrews 13:5 reminds us, “Be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” Secondly, contentment is a gift from God. One of the ways we grow in contentment is by asking God to make us content, praying, “God, help me to learn with the Apostle Paul, ‘in whatever situation I am in to be content’” (Phil. 4:11). As we start to ask God to fill us with contentment for Christ’s sake, we will experience that grace flowing into our lives. Third, we must learn to practice the discipline of self-denial in a world of self-indulgence. The world’s message is get as much as you can and enjoy it while it lasts. But the Christian life is a life of intentional denial of self for the sake of the Gospel. We don’t deny ourselves because things are bad or because enjoying
them is bad. But we sometimes deny ourselves to set our hearts on God alone. Brothers and Sisters, anchor yourself in His peace. Trust it even when you don’t feel like it. Live out His grace as you express that grace toward others. Submit yourself wholly to His leadership. Let your heart overflow with worship. Then, my friend, you will find that you’re living in contentment.
Because Singles Matter,
ERIC CHAFFIN
Associate Pastor of Adult Ministry & Singles
[email protected]
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Walk where Jesus walked
SR ADULTS SENIOR ADULT CHRISTMAS BANQUET
DECEMBER 3 11:30AM–2:00PM
Good food & good fellowship... Great entertainment by 4HeavenSake
April 4-13, 2016
December 16 is the Deadline to sign-up for Israel Trip with Pastor David & Laura Wilson & Rev. Ken & Patsy Carter Register on line: www.discoverycruisesandtours.com Final payment for Israel trip: January 5, 2016
SR ADULT GOOD NEWS CHOIR CHRISTMAS MUSICAL
DECEMBER 9 “When Earth Received Her King” 6:00pm in the Worship Center
SENIOR ADULT CHRISTMAS BANQUET
D E C E M B E R 1 8 AT 6 : 0 0 P M
At Jerry & Mary Race’s home
RAGTOWN GOSPEL THEATER TRIP
DECEMBER 19
OS Museum in Post and “Dutch Treat” lunch at Chappa’s Restaurant Cost: $25 (includes ticket) Sign up in your LIFE/SS group or call Mary at the church office.
What Southcrest Christian School Means to Me I love chapel days, we sing and dance to lots of happy Jesus songs. I would like to take my teacher home with me. I love that I get to go to school at Southcrest!
UPCOMING March 24, 2016 Fabulous Faith 6:00pm Lubbock Memorial Civic Center 2 0 1 5 H O L I D A Y C E L E B R A T I O N ////////
BIBLE STUDY OPPORTUNITIES Wednesday Stonecroft Bible Study Starts Jan 6, 9:30 am, Room 1003 “Discovering the Joy of Jesus” (Study of Philippians) Bible Study Leader: Linda McCraw Tuesday NightShine Class “He Speaks to Me” with Priscilla Shirer Starts Jan 12, 6:30 pm, Room 1003 Facilitator: Samm Shatley Wednesday NoonShine Bible Study “Sweeter Than Chocolate” Hebrews 11 by Pam Gillaspie Begins Jan 13, 12:00 pm, Room 1003 Bible Study Leader: Brenda Richardson
2H
EA
RTS
Join us in the Spring for an exciting, new ladies ministry event FABULOUS FAITH. Thursday, March 24, 2016. We will have a guest speaker, Lisa Whelchel, and dinner. Tickets go on sale January 4, 2016. Ladies, you will want to mark your calendars for this amazing event!
for more info you can email us at
[email protected] or call the church office 806.797.9000
Tuesday Precept Class 1st Peter with Kay Arthur Starts Jan 19, 9:00 am, Southcrest Parlor Facilitator: Anne Sims Wednesday DayShine Class “Audacious” by Beth Moore Starts Jan 20, 9:00 am, Room 1010 Bible Study Leader: Linda Strickland
SO UT HCREST L IFE // D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
2 0 1 5 H O L I D A Y C E L E B R A T I O N ////////
Southcrest means so much to me. I love this school! Everyone here is willing to help you and that is pretty cool.
— Madelyn, 2nd grade
I love going to my school because my teachers are so nice and sweet. I don’t want to ever go anywhere but to Southcrest!
— Ella, 2nd grade
I’ve had the blessing, honor, and opportunity of attending Southcrest Christian School for thirteen years. I have been able to see this school S E E Y O U A T T H E P O L E //////// grow from a simple group of shrubs into a well-supported and deeply rooted forest. Southcrest has impacted me in seemingly every aspect of life. Socially, it has impacted my life in that it has helped me engage people (both individually and as a group) in a Christ-centered manner, encouraging me to be intentional in every relationship and to bring each relationship into surrender to the Lord, striving to model each one after my relationship with God. Educationally, it has provided a Christ-centered curriculum for just about all subjects. The curriculum at SCS challenges one’s thought process in that it makes one think much deeper about a subject than normally expected, while also encouraging and inspiring one to grow closer in his or her relationship with Jesus, and in his or her relationships with others through Christ. In terms of friendship, the bonds made at this school are equivalent to family; indeed, it is, in a sense, a home away from home. This family-type relationship is not only among students, but most definitely between teachers and students H I G H S C H O O L R E T R E A T 2 0 1 5 //////// as well. The friendships I have made at SCS have not only impacted my life, but also changed my life. I do not think I would be the person I am today were it not for the Lord’s example of His grace in giving me my classmates (my brothers and sisters). Southcrest models after the church in that we are one body: we are unified in Christ by His grace, for His glory. We are rooted in Christ (see Colossians 2:6-7), and we - as His disciples - are not just one simple tree; rather, we are a forest, our roots dug deep into the same Soil and our roots connected together because of the Soil. We stand together in Christ, for each other and with each other, while going out into the world to preach the gospel because of Jesus and be warriors for Him. This church-like orientation of SCS is impactful in my life in that it is both an encouragement and inspiration to love God and, as a result, love others (see 1 John 5:1). In conclusion, Southcrest Christian School, through the work of the Holy Spirit so as to show the grace of God, has impacted me in practically every area of life, affecting my life now and in the future.
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— Jillian, Transitional 1st grade
In my school there is a whole bunch of love in everyone!!! We do fun experiments when we learn. It is so fun! I love everyone!!
—Maloree, 7th grade
Southcrest is like a second home I come to. I see my friends and learn about God and how to be a true Christian. Even though I have learning differences (I am dyslexic) the teachers are always open to suggestions on the best way to help me. The teachers will stay after class to make sure I learn my material. They will even change the way they teach it to me to make sure I learn it. Mrs. Anderson and Mrs. Ramos help me with my reading. My friends also help me. I don’t feel like I am different here. I feel like the rest of the kids. The Southcrest teachers teach us that God made us all unique and that is good. The teachers help me to grow spiritually. They give me guidance on my path with God and help me to be a better person. They teach me to take on responsibility and to love others. If one of my friends is down, we all try to cheer them up. Southcrest is a welcoming environment to come to everyday. You never feel left out but feel very included. I am a sixth grader but the high school boys make me feel important and encourage me in athletic practice which makes me work harder. I feel like I am part of the whole school. I am glad I go here and want to stay here until I graduate.
— Kevin Bash, 6th grade
— Zachary Dean, Senior 2016
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3801 S Loop 289 | Lubbock TX 79423 806.797.9000 |
[email protected]
If you have pictures of things going on at Southcrest, send them to
[email protected]. You might see them in the next issue or on social media!
