J ULY 2014

I started to sit down to write this letter, as I always do, with my preschooler taking
a nap upstairs and my can of pretentious soda water sitting next to me on the couch. I
sat there and sat there and sat there and just couldnt, like, DO IT. I opened my phone to
Facebook (#bigshock) and scrolled down mindlessly, immediately following the link to
a video titled, The voice of Winnie the Pooh reads Darth Vaders lines from Star Wars.
I think even the Apostle Peter would have clicked on that link. Believe you me, it was
worth it. Hold on, Gentiles of Rome, he would say. Some things cant be made to wait.
Ah, distraction. Ah, 21
st
century. Ah, rst-world problems. Theres a huge lack of purity
in our actions. And when I say purity, I dont mean moral or altruistic purity; I just
mean a lack of deliberate action. To do anything simply and intently, with a denitive
motivation. Were just multitasking our humanity into the digital dirt. I dont know that
we can help it, really. Part of it is our brave new world. Yet part of it, at least for me, is
to escape what sufering or stress I feel. Flitting from one domain to the next and back
again, accomplishing little nothings here and there, riding the wave back and forth and
up and down and back again. I feel fast and buoyant, like I can outrun my troubles.
In James 1:4, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus, writes, Consider it pure joy, my broth-
ers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the
testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance nish its work so that
you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
I would like to reach in with an ice cream scoop and carve out that word: PURE. Con-
sider it pure joy. In the Greek, this word for pure in verse 2 denotes a marker of the
highest degree of something. It could be rendered, full or greatest or all. So, yea.
Pure means Pure. Pure joy.
But back to pain. Back to the trials of many kinds. If you are going through any type of
intense sufering right now, you know that if you give your hurt room to breathe, if you
allow it to decant for a moment in your soul stopping your incessant phone-checking
and credit-card swiping and joke-telling you will be able to testify that pain itself is,
by nature, PURE. It doesnt have to be told to be pure. It just is.
As John Green says in his NYT bestseller The Fault in Our Stars: Thats the thing
about pain, Augustus said, and then glanced back at me. It demands to be felt.
Pain cannot be multitasked away. It doesnt condescend to be ckle. It is what it is. Its
pure and unadulterated. It hurts and sometimes the hurt takes our breath away. Feel it we
must. Face it we must. So how then can we, at the very same time, experience pure joy?
(I always get a little mad when I read this verse, honestly. Its like telling someone to
breath underwater. I cant breathe joy when Im drowning in pain! Ever heard of mutu-
ally exclusive categories, James?)
Ah, but then theres another word to scoop: CONSIDER. The ESV, RSV and NASB
translations read, Count it all joy. Chalk it up as joy, in other words. Score one for joy.
Pencil joy in the win column.
And why? So perseverance can nish its work so that you may be mature and complete,
not lacking anything. Whats so great about maturity? What about this particular
Future Completeness outweighs what was taken from me?
Honestly, I dont know what the answer is for you. Or for James readers. They were Jew-
ish Christians who had been scattered across the known world because of terrible perse-
cution. Many were living in poverty. They too were acquainted with the purity of pain.
I dont know what your particular brand of pure pain is today, and maybe the idea of
feeling even 1% of joy within it seems insulting and impossible. (Or seems as ridicu-
lous as Winnie the Pooh reading Darth Vaders lines.) But maybe you dont have to
feel the joy at rst. Maybe you chalk it up as joy, call a spade a diamond, out of faith, or
total bewilderment, and maybe the joyful feeling will come to fruition alongside that
maturity and completeness and not-lacking-anything-ness on down the road. Maybe
icking your wrist to make the little pencil mark in the Joy category is all you can do
right now.
After all, its not like we Christians are unpracticed when it comes to seeing the unsee-
able. It takes ruthless faith to believe in the healing of the blind, the walking on of water,
and the raising of the dead. Those were mutually exclusive categories once, too: blind-
ness/sight, solid/liquid, death/life. We chalk it up as fact, and wait for that little act,
that little chalking up of faith, to bear out reality.
I hope you can bear the pain/joy dichotomy today. And if you cant, remember that
Jesus himself was a Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief (Isaiah 53). Pain paints a
broad stroke. But James tells us its worth it. Somehow. Someday.
a letter from
Chatter
Why are we here?
IBC is on a journey committed to life transformation through Jesus Christ. We engage
this journey by growing in Christ, connecting in community, and joining the mission.
This commitment comes from Jesus words in the Great Commandment
(Matthew 22:36-39) and Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20).
Thanks for picking up Chatter. Chatter is a publication of Irving Bible Church in Irving, Texas.
Editor Julie Rhodes
Art Direction, Design & Goodness
Josh Wiese, Lindsey Sobolik, JD Lemming
Admin Extraordinaire
Victoria Andrews
Our Very Tall Boss
Scott McClellan, Communications Pastor
Photography
Charles Stafford (Supplies for Success)*
Katherine Ivey (Photo Update)*
Ryan Sanders (Photo Update)*
Writers
Jason Fox (Idle Chatter)*
Lauren Moussa (SchoolWorks)*
Megan Foreman (Chatter Facts)*
Stephanie Suire (Mercy House)*
Editorial Assistance/Proong
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.
*Most beloved and indispensable Chatter Volunteer.
Irving Bible Church: a community on a journey.
Contact IBC
Irving Bible Church | 2435 Kinwest Pkwy, Irving, TX 75063 | (972) 560-4600
Web irvingbible.org | Twitter @ibcvoice | Facebook irvingbible
Sign up for the IBC eLetter, a weekly email update for key ministry event informa-
tion and announcements, along with a short devotional by Pastor Andy to encourage
you on your journey week-to-week. Subscribe today at irvingbible.org/eletter.
New to IBC? Turn to page 18.
How do we do this?
Growing in Christ
At the heart of the journey is the gospel of Jesus Christ, the story of the Son of
God coming into our dark world to bring light, life, hope and transformation. The
journey begins when we trust Christ, but it doesnt end there. Gods desire for each
of us is for our hearts and lives to become more like the one who has saved us
(Ephesians 4:11-13).
Connecting in Community
The gospel story draws us into a community of people whose lives have been trans-
formed by Jesus. This journey is not one that we undertake alone. We are designed
to do life together as a community of Christ-followers. It is essential that we walk with
one another on the journey (John 13:34-35).
Joining the Mission
The gospel tells us that one day God will take all that is broken in this world and
make it whole. Those of us who are on the journey together are called to be people
who do what we can to make glimpses of that day show up in our day. We do this
by telling the gospel story and demonstrating gospel-shaped love to a needy world
(Matthew 28:18-20).
Photo Update:
Pentecost Sunday Festival and VBS
On Sunday June 8, the IBC family gathered to celebrate
Pentecost (P), the birth of the Big-C Church with food trucks,
karaoke, and general frivolity. Hundreds of kids descended
upon the IBC campus in June for VBS (V): Weird Animals:
Where Jesus Love Is One-of-a-Kind.
V
V
V
P
P
P P P
V
IBC is partnering with a new local ministry to provide
help and support for single, pregnant mothers.
Mercy House
T
wenty years ago, while sitting in her living room having her
quiet time with the Lord, Susan Hulet had a vision about a
house full of single, pregnant women being discipled and cared
for during their pregnancies and preparing them for parenthood. At
the time, Susan and her husband were both pastors at a church they
had founded and she also had a busy midwifery practice. Over years
of delivering babies, she met many single, pregnant women who were
hurting. They were dealing with family dysfunction, rejection and
coniction about bringing a child into the world alone. Susan felt like
the Lord just kept sending these young women her way. They just kept
coming, she explained. As a pro-life advocate, Susan encouraged these
women to make a choice for life but noticed there was a gap between
convincing them to keep their babies and getting them the support, love
and stable environment they needed during and after their pregnancies.
Excited about her vision, Susan drove to church to tell her husband.
A week later he decided to share it with their congregation. After that
service, a close friend came up to Susan and said, Your Mercy House is
going to happen.
That is how it got its name, Susan recalled. After that we referred to
it as Mercy House. Mercy House is now a Christian maternity home
for single, pregnant women that provides residential and maternity
care, mentors, life-skills training, prayer and spiritual guidance. Ulti-
mately we want to connect these women with the Lord, helping them
understand his great love for them and that he is all they need.
Mercy House was appealing to the IBC leadership for its holistic ap-
proach (and is not to be confused with Mercy Street, IBCs local partner
ministry that works to match at-risk kids with mentors). Local Part-
nerships Director Tricia Kinsman-Ash says, For a couple of years,
IBC had been praying about how to be involved in the pro-life issue,
yet nothing seemed to resonate with what we consider the heartbeat
of IBC. Then I got a call from Susan. After hearing about Mercy House
and its vision, the IBC team prayed for a year and then ofered Mercy
House the opportunity to apply for partnership status the following
year. In 2014, the vision team brought Mercy House on as an ofcial
partner, excited to be involved in the pro-life issue in a way that met the
needs of both the mom and the baby.
Why does IBC have so many local partnerships?
Sometimes its hard to keep track of all the ministries and non-prots IBC supports around the
community. Executive Pastor Bryan Eck explains why IBC invests so broadly.
Years ago, we adopted a saying a philosophy of local missions, if you will that if IBC ever
ran out of money, we would be so connected and engrained in the community that the com-
munity itself would raise money to keep our doors open. If this was going to be true, then loving
our neighbors would have to be at the forefront of everything we do. After much prayer and
strategic planning, we came up with a list of initiatives that we believe needed to happen for
our community to be served. We chose this amazing list of partners because they were all at the
intersection of the community and its needs serving the hurting, the lost and the disenfran-
chised. Jesus himself was always at those intersections among the least of these (Matthew
25:40). So the partners list is long and the needs are great. But when you see the community, our
partners and the church working together, the community changes; the world changes.
If you have any questions about our local partners, who they are or what they do, you can
visit our website or contact our director of local partnerships, Tricia Kinsman-Ash at
tkinsman-ash@irvingbible.org.
It took a several years for Susans vision to be-
come a reality. In early 1996 a monthly newslet-
ter was created to start raising money for Mercy
House and the board of directors was selected.
In the fall of that year, a pastor in Arlington
who was also interested in starting a similar
type of ministry for pregnant women contacted
Susan. Youve done all of this work so far, he
said, What is it that you are lacking? What
can I help you with? Susan told him all they
were lacking was a house. When the pastor ofered to let her use a house on his
churchs property, a 2,500 square foot house in Arlington, Susan knew that the
Lord was guiding her on this journey.
In March of 1997, Mercy House opened in Arlington, TX and started taking in
pregnant women. Since the rst house opened, it has served 120 women with
residential and maternity services. When a women rst moves into the home,
the staf and houseparents celebrate that she chose life for her baby and has
committed to the work she will do at Mercy House to prepare for parenting. In
the rst week the resident meets with a family worker who creates a writ-
ten service plan that identies her needs. The rst goal is to cover physical
needs, which includes a safe place to live, food to eat and clothes to wear. The
second is medical care, which includes midwives and birth centers who have
volunteered to provide free services. As a midwife herself, Susan believes its
important to provide a natural, holistic birth experience for the women. The
third goal is to help prepare women for parenting their baby. Counselors, men-
tors, midwives, doulas (birth attendants), chiropractors as well as many other
professionals donate their time and services to the women at Mercy House.
Volunteers with special skills such as birth and pregnancy photographers,
CPR trainers, child car seat safety trainers, nancial planners and women who
do crafts and home living skills all serve the residents at Mercy House.
Over the years, other programs have been added to teach and prepare the
women for life outside of Mercy House. The Earn While You Learn program
ofers 10 modules of basic infant care that is covered over 10 weeks. After
nishing the 10 modules, the women earn a Baby Shower that provides all of
the basic baby needs. In addition, the women are required to attend church on
Sunday, a mid-week service, and a once-a-week Bible study. A Prayer Ministry
team also meets with the women, inspiring them toward the Lord and giving
them a safe place to talk and pray.
Once the baby is born, the mother is allowed to stay up to 12 weeks to recover
and take care of the baby, all while preparing to move on. Some options for her
next steps may include a group home for single parents, transitional hous-
ing programs or returning to
family. The average stay for the
women at Mercy House is 5-7
months before they graduate
from the program.
Susan admits it has not been an
easy journey. The program for
Mercy House has changed over
the last 15 years. The original
home was sold in 2003, and in
the interim they used Shep-
herding Homes, families who
hosted individual girls in their
homes until a new home could
be secured. In 2006, the minis-
try was rebuilt, a new board was
selected and a strategic plan
was put in place to grow the
ministry incrementally. Then
a few years ago during a walk
with her husband in her own neighbor-
hood, Susan found a house for sale that
had a good oor plan for Mercy House.
It was as if God was directing my steps
on that walk, Susan recalled. The house
was perfect! In 2012, the new permanent residential home opened which
houses up to four women, a full-time couple (who lives in the home as house-
parents) and a single woman to serve as an assistant to the houseparents.
Mercy House still needs volunteers for its ministry. Volunteer opportunities
include: mentors who are willing to connect with the women on a weekly basis,
drivers to take them to medical appointments, Bible study leaders, profession-
als such as photographers or nancial planners who are willing to donate their
time, or even women who would like to teach the residents a class on cooking,
sewing, or other crafts. In addition, Mercy House holds an annual Benet as a
fundraiser. This years 6th annual Benet will be held at the Hurst Conference
Center on September 11, 2014 and will need a lot of help.
Susans vision is still clear today, although it has been transformed by the
obstacles, uncertainties and challenges of running Mercy House for the last 15
years. Her new vision is to partner with other churches to help them start their
own home for pregnant women or women in need. She now has a template
for starting the ministry, the willingness to train others and the knowledge of
what type of budget is needed. Susan has passion in her heart to help women in
need and she wants that to live on beyond her time with Mercy House.
Stephanie Suires fears around the house include spiders, geckos and running
out of toilet paper.
Stephanie has been married to Trey for 10 years and they have two children, Sophia (7) and Tallen (5).
Stephanie writes a healthy living blog called Food and Fitness 4 Real (foodandtness4real.com) where
she shares tness tips, race recaps, recipes and local restaurant reviews.

Ultimately we want to connect

these women with the Lord, helping
them understand his great love for
them and that he is all they need.
Chatter | 6
Supplies for Success
A Stategic Collaboration.
About 4 years ago, Doug Fox (Irving YMCA director) was involved in vari-
ous civic organizations around the City of Irving. He quickly noticed that
each group was organizing its own school supply drive and saw the inherent
inefciencies in so many diferent eforts. He decided to nd a way to bring the
groups together.
At the time, he had met IBC pastor Bryan Eck, who had previously been the
Director of Lewisville YMCA. They immediately hit it of and agreed to nd
a way for IBC to get involved. Now in its fourth year, the Supplies for Success
drive has gained traction and is impacting families. The efort is
a collaboration between the Irving Independent School District,
YMCA, Rotary, IBC, and various other non-prot and corporate
sponsors. Last year, Supplies for Success reached 900 of the
poorest Irving families with backpacks, medical exams, and other
resources. This years goal: 2,000 families and 4,000 kids.
CHATTER Doug, thanks for talking with us today. Can you give us
an idea of the scope of need within the Irving community?
DOUG FOX In the Irving ISD, 84% of the 35,000 families are on
free/reduce lunch programs. Seventy percent are Hispanic, and
there is a growing Indian/Asian population. The Y looks at 6 factors
when assessing a childs risk: if a parent has not graduated from
high school, if English is not spoken at home, if the home does not
have two parents, etc. Twenty to thirty percent of kids in Irving
start out with at least 2 of those risk factors.
The state has developed a distinction called Direct Certied for
individuals with kids who are automatically qualied for reduced
lunch in school system by denition, the poorest of the poor. That
number is close to 8,000-9,000 kids (including high school) in the Ir-
ving school district. Thats the population were targeting with SFS.
CHAT Why do you think its important for the church to partner with the city
for projects like this?
DF At the end of the day, we can do so much more together as organizations
than we can individually. IBC is amazing you do fantastic work. But it would
be difcult for IBC alone to impact 4,000 kids; it would be difcult for the
YMCA or any of these organizations. I think theres power in that. IBC is well
known for all the things it does the mentoring programs, the Clinic. It makes
GIVE $10 TOWARDS A BACKPACK.
If your desire is to provide Direct Certied Irving school
children with as many backpacks as you can, dollar for
dollar, IBC has a vendor that can supply us with lled,
quality backpacks for $10 each. (Make checks payable
to IBC with backpacks in the memo line.) All you
need do is write a check for as many backpacks
as youd like. We will order them for you and
have them delivered to the Supplies for Suc-
cess event on August 16. We have committed
1,000 backpacks to SFS this year.
GET
INVOLVED!
Be part of reaching Irving families
who need it the most this school
year. Here are three ways you can
make an impact

The rst American YMCA was

founded in Boston in 1851.
Chatter | 7
PUT A BACKPACK TOGETHER
FOR AN IBC PARTNER.
If your desire is for a more personal touch or to provide a
learning/giving opportunity for your children, pick up a
supply list from the kiosk in Town Square and purchase
a custom backpack and supplies from the store of your
choice. Just return it to the baptismal between
July 27August 10 and we will deliver it for our
partners to distribute to their clients (New
Friends New Life, Brighter Tomorrows, etc.)
This way of giving may be a few dollars more for
your family, but the intrinsic benets are great.
We have committed 500 backpacks to our partners
this year, including our Single Parent ministry here at IBC.
SERVE ON AUGUST 16.
If you would like a hands-on opportunity to serve our com-
munity, volunteer at the Supplies for Success event on
August 16

by registering at the kiosk in Town Square
on either July 28 or August 4, or by visiting irvingbible.
org/backpacks.
sense for them to be on the front end of this because they care so much about
Irving.
CHAT Do you have any stories from individuals who were served at last years
Supplies For Success drive?
DF The look on the kids faces is worth a million dollars. For many of these
little kids, this is their rst backpack. There have been at least half a dozen
families where the mom or dad or whoever is profusely thanking us they
didnt know what they were going to do about their kids this year. And I think
there have been plenty of volunteers from a variety of partners that keep com-
ing back to Supplies for Success because they see the impact.
When we brought this thing together, it wasnt about school supplies alone.
The biggest need is lack of knowledge there are services available for people
but they have no idea whats out there. So families who come to SFS have the
opportunity for dental and vision screening; at least a dozen kids who had
severe vision problems were identied last year. As part of the event, we also
send everybody through a series of vendors and service organizations to let
them know, We are here and this is what we do. It has been very much ap-
preciated.
CHAT Why does the IBC partnership model work so well?
DF I wish we had more IBCs around. This is not my day job I believe in what
the community is doing so I volunteer my time just like everyone else does.
And when you have a large, strong church like IBC, it lends credibility to what
were doing. Its hard to quantify. We could not do it without support from Tri-
cia Kinsman-Ash (IBCs Director of Local Partnerships), not just because IBC
provides backpacks, but because of logistical things for event organization
and volunteers. Wed be searching high and low to nd the type of support you
guys provide.
CHAT Whats your vision for church partnerships moving into the future?
DF The idea is to continue to grow and get more partners. Having IBC as a well
respected church has given us credibility as we go out to look for new partners.
Last year, a corporate sponsor came in when they heard about it. The more
we have big and small corporations hearing about what were doing, the more
involvement we will have. Thats what the vision is. I dont know if we can get
all 25,000 kids in our community backpacks. But we can raise the number of
backpacks, and the level of consciousness. Im not sure businesses and fami-
lies realize the diference in socioeconomic status south of 183.
According to the National Retail Federations
2013 Back-to-School Survey, families with
school-age children spent an average of $634.78
on apparel, shoes, supplies and electronics.
The mascot for Elmers Glue-All
was named after Elmer the Bull,
husband of Bordens advertising
mascot, Elsie the Cow.
THANKS FOR SINGING!
What Vox Humana tenor David Dendy looks forward to every week.
M
y name is David Dendy and I love life.
I love Gods blessings in my life which
include riding motorcycles cross-country with
Pastor Andy, shing in Florida, surng the east
and west coast, golng, midnight four-wheel-
ing at the ranch, hunting, spending quality
time with my lovely wife Sylvia and 4 kids, and
consulting with CEOs of businesses to help
them perfect their business models.
I enjoy so many people and things on this earth
today, that I have to acknowledge that my life
is totally full according to my Dads lifelong
denition:
Life is not all it can be unless you have some-
one to love, something to do and something to
look forward to. I really believe that.
Now youre probably wondering, Where is
this guy going with all this?
I am a member of the Vox Humana Choir here
at Irving Bible Church. I really cant sing that
great and I really dont know how to read mu-
sic, but I do know how to make a joyful noise to
the Lord. And you do, too; all 2,000+ of you in
the IBC Worship Center every Sunday. It has
been such a blessing for me to worship with
each of you.
I dont have time with my busy schedule to do
some of the things that so many people here at
IBC do in our community. I cant be the door
greeter and I cant direct trafc like Don Robb.
But I can show up on Wednesday nights and
have fellowship with some great people while
being spiritually fed. It is an hour once a week
that slows me down and allows me to stop and
honor God and prepare for the next weeks
music. Its so easy and Crystal and Jason make
it fun!
Lately, Crystal and Jason have been chal-
lenging us to prepare our hearts throughout
the week so that when we come on Sunday
morning, we are clean in spirit and able to sing
Gods praises joyfully. As a choir, we can sing
his praises because thats why we are really
singing; we are not performing, but prais-
ing the Father together as one with you the
so-called audience. We look forward to how
God is going to work in us and through us every
week. We know that we are setting the tone
for people who may be hurting and who have
come to church to worship.
So to make a long story short, my something
to look forward to includes riding my motor-
cycle through Montana and Idaho. I am also
really looking forward to my shing trip com-
ing up in Florida. But the thing I look forward
to most each week is singing with my church
friends on Wednesdays and Sundays. It is such
a profound blessing in my life to nd this place
in my schedule where I can give back to IBC
and sing Gods praises with all my heart.
If you are interested in singing with Vox Huma-
na, contact Crystal at celwell@irvingbible.org.
No auditions necessary. Vox is open to singers of
all ability levels.
LIFE IS NOT ALL IT CAN BE UNLESS YOU HAVE
SOMEONE TO LOVE, SOMETHING TO DO AND
SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO.
Leo Knows Lysol
An IBCer for about 16 years now, Leo Morgan knows his way
around. Especially around the IBC kitchen. You may think
serving on an IBC meal team means stirring and scooping,
but Leo is the rst to tell you theres more to be done.
Leo wasnt what he would describe as engaged in the
IBC community up until about 3 years ago. Thats when
Bob Downey put him to work on a Wednesday night meal
team. I thought Id be on the service line or something,
said Leo. But they had people for that. There was stuf to
clean, though, so I thought, Hey maybe thats what the Holy
Spirits telling me to do. Leo was really just looking for a way to connect with
others and nd community now that his work schedule was more exible. You
go to church and you might meet a few people, but to get to know people you
need to work with them, he says.
And get to know them he did. Although the Meal Teams rotate volunteer groups
every six weeks, Leo enjoys it so much you can nd him scrubbing counters or
cleaning out the fridge every Wednesday night. His favorite job? Cleaning out
the smoking grills. Ill have that dude knocked out in 30-40 minutes, says Leo.
But hes up for whatever needs to be done, keeping an extra set of clothes in his
car for the really heavy-duty jobs. He doesnt shy away from any nook or cranny.
It doesnt bother me, he says. I can get right in there with the best of them.
It might be hard to believe, but Leo really does enjoy working clean-up duty. He
believes everyone should nd a place to serve as best they can. Do something
youre capable of doing, he says, and you might just make some friends in the
process. Everybody is just great on the meal team, he says. Some of the nicest
people Ive ever met.
If youre interested in plugging in to an IBC meal team either Wednesday or
Sunday nights, contact bdowney@irvingbible.org or Pat OReilly at sunday-
nightmeal@irvingbible.org.
SO, WHAT IS 2435 KINWEST?
2435 Kinwest is IBCs community outreach night, ofering meals, medical clinic
appointment, classes, kids activities, and more. Leo took a small step to get
involved, and you can, too. Whether you love to teach, sing, give of your medical
expertise, mentor kids, or pray, theres a place to step out at 2435 Kinwest. One
of our key needs is for MDs and PAs to serve in the clinic. We also need ESL
volunteers and more.
Come learn about the possibilities on July 21, 6:308 p.m. in West D.
To volunteer, or for more info, contact Lauren at lmoussa@irvingbible.org.
Happy 4th! This month, the amber waves of Chatter
pages are beautiful with possibility: decipher the hidden
message on this page and you could win a Cold Stone gift
certicate! Hint: its a phrase from a famous patriotic tune.
Send your correct guess to chatter@irvingbible.org.
First-time mommyhood has its share of joy and
wonder. But it can also be, well, terrifying. Isolating.
Confusing. Its the beginning, not only of your babys
life, but of YOUR new life. Who are you now? What
does it mean to be you-plus-one? Enter Square One,
IBCs support group for rst-time moms. Chatter
asked Paige, Elvira and Chrystal what the ministry
has meant to them.
PAIGE: A SAFE PLACE TO BE REAL
It takes a village is most commonly used to describe the raising of a child, but
I learned quickly that the old adage is very applicable to rst-time mother-
hood. Being a new mom is such an exciting- yet-stressful time, full of sleepless
nights and uncertainty. A good friend of mine at IBC recommended I join the
Square One class for women who are joining the throes of motherhood. I was
hesitant to join a class because I expected nothing but oohs and ahhs over how
cute our new babies were. However, I can say the six weeks I spent getting to
know my Square One ladies and their precious little ones have been such a
blessing in my life. I found it was a safe place to ask ridiculous new-mom ques-
tions while also celebrating this new journey in each of our lives. We laughed,
cried, shared stories, and discussed all the new aspects of being a mom. We
celebrated exciting moments and prayed for concerns. We loved getting
together so much that we still meet regularly so that our babies can play and
the moms can enjoy each others company. I am so lucky to have been a part of
Square One and now have a group of godly women to help guide me through
motherhood.
ELVIRA: SUPPORT FOR AN OLDER MOM
I am 41 years old and was very hesitant to join a group of new moms who were
most likely much younger and in diferent places in their lives. However, I
quickly realized that we all had one thing in common: we were blessed with
little ones we loved and needed help in understanding our new roles as rst-
time moms. Age was never an issue. The ladies and babies I met were amazing.
We shared our pregnancies, birthing stories and babies. I learned so much
from each of them. It was a safe place to ask questions regarding breastfeeding,
sleep schedules, routines, bath time, sex and many other topics. We prayed for
each other and our families; we cried, we laughed and we also sat still to listen
to God and his plans for us and our little ones. The group was led by experi-
enced moms who brought so much to the table. I will be forever grateful for
their information and advice they gave to us. (The best advice I received was to
remember the phrase, long days, short years. This helps me enjoy and cher-
ish every minute I have with my son.)
CHRYSTAL: PEOPLE WHO WILL LISTEN
Support. Other than sleep, its the one thing you desperately need as a new
mom. Its also the one thing thats the hardest to ask for from others.
As a brand new mother myself, Ive learned a few things these past few months:
1. I worry a lot. A lot. A LOT. Many questions start with, Is it normal if my
baby I have questions about every function of my babys life and just
about every part of his body. I want reassurance that Im making the right
choices when caring for him.
2. I really need people right now. People to check in and encourage me. Peo-
ple to speak wisdom when I feel clueless. People to just listen. And people
who understand that its perfectly okay if you stay in yoga pants most of
your days as a new mother.
3. Prayer goes a long way. Praising God for giving you this bundle of joy when
your heart is so full, but also prayer for when this new mothering gig hits
some rough patches.
Square One was more than a blessing. It was the highlight of my week on many
occasions. To have older moms encourage you, speak truth and remind you
this is a short season of life was invaluable. It really was just what I needed and
left my heart full and happy.
Square One meets Thursday this fall. See ad page 17 for details.
Square One: You are Here.
Paige & Foster Elvira & Cannon Chrystal & Bennett
Chatter | 12
I work in IBCs mission department. We like
to say that missions can be both across the
street and around the world. Since I was little,
I have had a passion in my heart for global
missions, but when I meet people that only
want to serve around the world, I also
encourage them to serve across the street. There is something so beautiful and
desperately important about serving as a part of our everyday lives in our own
community. Why would we not want to serve globally AND locally?
For the past six years, IBC has fostered the SchoolWorks program, a mentoring
model that matches Half Hour Heroes with the most at-risk kids in our commu-
nity: Reading Buddies for Elementary students, Lunch Buddies for Junior High
students and Mentors for High School students. Its a powerful ministry that can
make major transformations in one persons life over time. I know. Ive seen
it rsthand.
My Lunch Buddy, Hilary, has become like a little sister to me. I am privileged to
have been her Lunch Buddy for the past 5 years. It hasnt always been easy, but the
rewards are priceless.
Our story actually starts with Cheetos and tall tales
year
1
STICKING AROUND
It is funny to think back. I remember how nervous I was driving to
my rst Half Hour Hero lunch. I had traveled the world solo; why was
walking into a middle school so intimidating? Maybe it was the ash-backs from
my not-so-amazing middle school days. I prayed in my car on the way over and in
I went. Hilary and I had an unceremonious meeting, got her lunch, and sat in the
library across from one another, waiting for the magic of mentoring to kick in.
It was a quiet lunch with awkward questions on my part and one-word answers
on hers. For some reason, I had a hard time understanding her and she had a hard
time understanding me, although we spoke the same rst language. There were
many silences lled withchewing. I mentioned I had a good sense of smell. She lit
up and responded that she had a good sense of hearing. We were connecting!
While I thought Hilary and I were hitting it of, she began telling me some outra-
geous stories over lunch. After a few more lunches, and a few more stories, I found
myself inquiring with the school counselor. She was gracious with me and said that
often students will come up with stories as a way to test a potential friend to see
if they will stick around. She encouraged me that Hilary could really use a lunch
buddy based of her extracurricular track record. I decided to stick around.
That year, I got Hilary a huge popcorn tub and chocolate for Christmas. When
I gave it to her, she seemed really shocked. Very happily shocked. She suddenly
opened up in a way that she hadnt in our rst four months of meeting. I realized
then that gifts were her love language. I started getting her two bags of spicy Chee-
tos each week. One for her, and one for her to give away to a friend. We ended the
year on a high note.
year
2
TWILIGHT AND BABIES
Twilight and babies. Some things you never think youll do in life, and
one of those things for me is reading romantic vampire novels. By year
two, Lunch Buddies had gotten much more comfortable, but my lunches with
Hilary were still pretty quiet. I started running low on weekly questions, so I asked
her what she was reading. Hilary talked about the Twilight books more than any
other topic. Next thing I knew, I was picking up a copy and reading Twilight for
Jesus. Hilary and I had a good time guessing what would happen next and talking
through plot twists.
It was around this time that I became an aunt and Hilarys cousin had a baby. We
secretly shared pictures and videos of the babies (since no phones were allowed
in the cafeteria) and watched them grow up through the year. When people asked
me what I talked about at Lunch Buddies, I would respond, 'Twilight and babies.
Pretty simple.
Was I making progress?
year
3
GOING DEEPER
By year three, we had a comfortable rhythm. The moment Hilary saw
me, she would give a quick summary of what was going on in her life. I
felt privileged that she really started telling me things, though often she didnt
want to talk very deeply about them. We had developed trust.
We moved on to reading The Hunger Games and continued to share about life. I
had gotten married over the summer so we talked about boys and traveling. Hilary
started sharing a few stories that were serious and more important. She decided
she knew what she wanted to do when she grew up: become a veterinarian.
One day, I brought an end-of-the-year present for Hilary but had to leave it with
the counselors. These school counselors had
been amazing advocates for SchoolWorks and a
support for me in my three years at Sam Hous-
ton Middle School. As I gave hugs to them, they
mentioned that they were sending over Hilarys
transcripts to the high school and said that they
barely recognized her from her 6th grade year.
Hilary had been very shy and difcult to talk to,
but now she was more open and approachable.
To top it all of, Hilary hadnt gotten into a ght
for two years and her grades had slowly been ris-
ing. I felt a rush of joy.
Was mentoring a part of this diference?
We Are
Winning
The ght for at-risk kids is won
30 minutes a week, one a year at a time.
The Twilight idea hit the authors mind while
she was a full time mother of three. She claims it
got to her like a dream and when she woke up,
she started writing.
Chatter | 13
year
4
MOVING ON UP
I was delighted when I heard the Lunch Buddy program would be
expanded to include MacArthur High School. I asked Hilary if she
wanted me to continue with her, and she responded with an anticlimactic, Sure.
Ok then.
It took a few weeks to get the SchoolWorks logistics in place at the new school.
When I nally did come, Hilary ran up to me and gave me a hug a rst! After our
meal, I asked her if she liked having a Lunch Buddy in high school and she respond-
ed, I sit by myself every day, so its nice to eat with you.
But something was diferent. It was like Hilary had grown up over the summer
and was now a young woman. She had also developed an interest in music, but her
dads guitar had broken. (My sweet husband scoured Craigslist for a used guitar
and completed his background check so he could give it to her himself.) I couldnt
believe the maturity I was seeing.
Over the course of the year, I realized something else: Hilary had become part of
my family. She was like a little sister to me and I couldnt imagine life without her.
Funny how that happens
year
5
WE ARE WINNING
We started our fth year with Hilary bringing a friend to Lunch Buddies
each week. She had a new best friend and I had a great time seeing her
with someone so devoted and kind. When her friend moved away mid-year, it was
hard on both of us. She had grown so much in this friendship, it was hard to see
her go.
Then she began saying things that blew me away. She talked about friendships
and boys in a way that were more self-aware than many of the adults I know. She
started talking about patterns she noticed in herself and the ways she was creating
space in some unhealthy friendships. Each week I found myself saying, I am so
proud of you. I ended up back in the counselors ofce, but this time talking about
how great Hilary was doing and asking what steps I could take to celebrate. Her
grades improved to an all time high, and now we are starting to talk about scholar-
ships and college applications. There is a lot to celebrate.
One day, as I was leaving Hilarys school, I ran into the Principle, Mr. Able. I
thanked him for his support of the program and expressed my delight in how Hilary
has been growing and maturing each week in front of my eyes. He responded with
a smile and said, We are winning.
I told this to Hilary the following week. She teared up and said, So you can both see
the changes I am making? I can see them, but I didnt know anyone else could.
Wow.
I told her that all of us on Team Hilary see these changes and that we are incred-
ibly proud of her. She said, I want to tell Mr. Able thank you for giving me a Lunch
Buddy because I used to sit alone every day and I didnt know how to make friends
or talk to people. Then I had to talk with you each week, and now I have friends I sit
with each day.
I asked Hilary if she remembered the crazy stories she told me the rst few weeks I
visited her at lunch. She burst into laughter and hid her face.
I didnt know who you were and I didnt want to eat with you! she said. Pretty self-
explanatory. How far we have come.
Five years later, Im glad we both kept coming back to the lunch table. And in ad-
dition to the wonderful stories I hear every day from IBCs partners in Asia and
Africa, I am equally amazed to see what God has done with only 30 minutes each
week through SchoolWorks.
Lauren Moussas favorite childhood hobby was whittling.
Lauren is IBCs Director of Global Partnerships.
Welcome Lindsay!
Lindsay Hamilton will be taking over the
SchoolWorks reins from Jan. Lindsay is
married to IBC High School Pastor Matt,
and has three amazing kiddos Conley
-7, Emma Reese - 5, and Mav - 1. For the
past six years, Lindsay has been at home
with the kids, and previously worked as a
marketing coordinator for Post Properties.
Lindsay says, I am so excited to take over
SchoolWorks because it is a wonderful chance for us to give back to
our community and make a difference in a childs life. I love how Jan
puts it, The world is at our front door its so true! Im really excited
about seeing that continue.
Jan Fanning:
Leaving a Legacy. Again.
For 15 years, Jan Fanning served as IBCs
Childrens Pastor. After her retirement, God
had plans for her to reach more children in
the community and Jan answered the call.
For the past six years, Jan has spearheaded,
developed, and expanded the SchoolWorks
program. Under her passionate and skillful
leadership, SchoolWorks has grown to reach ve school districts and
partner with 12 churches, reaching the communitys most at-risk kids.
Jan will be retiring again this month, and we wish her all the best.
You can make a difference in the life of
a child with only 30 minutes a week.
Become a Lunch Buddy or a Reading Buddy
today. Visit irvingbible.org/schoolworks.
The Hunger Games has
been translated into 26
different languages.
THIS MONTH
Chatter | 14
BIBLE COMMUNITIES
Groups on Sunday
Theres always something new
going on in Bible Communities!
Heres a taste of whats happening
this month:
The Tree 9 a.m. West D
20s & 30s, married and
young families
Join us as we seek to grow together in
faith and in marriage.
Crossroads
10:45 a.m. West C
Married late 20s and 30s
Join us for teaching that facilitates
group discussion with the goal of
deepening relationships with our
community and with Christ.
Journey
10:45 a.m. The Alcove
All Welcome
Join us as we study how believers are
to relate to one another in the one
another passages of Scripture.
On Track
10:45 a.m. Conference Room
Single Parents
If you are a single parent or have a
blended family, please join us for
Bible study, fellowship and prayer.
Thrive 10:45 a.m. West D
Singles in their 30s & 40s
We are a group of highly active
singles developing friendships and
expressing the truth and love of
Jesus in a spectrum of ways.
Renew
10:45 a.m. Training Center
Diverse, all ages and stages
Join us for community, prayer, and
in-depth Bible teaching as we
search Gods word. Our July study
will be No Plan B by Todd Phillips.
Legacy Builders
6:45 p.m. West A
All Welcome
Join us for fellowship, prayer, and
in-depth Bible teaching as begin a
study entitled Christian Thinkers,
a series about influential Christians.
Please visit page 18 for more Sun-
day Bible Communities.
HOPE & HEALING
Community Care
DivorceCare Begins August 14
See ad, pg. 16.
Abortion Recovery Counseling
One-on-one, confidential counsel-
ing for those living with the after-
math of abortion. For information,
contact Kym at (972) 560-4632 or
kyeichner@irvingbible.org.
Recovery at IBC
Thursdays, 6:308:30 p.m.
West Wing Youth Lounge
Do you deal with perfectionism,
pride, overeating, inappropriate
anger or control? Recovery is con-
fidential and all are welcome. Visit
irvingbible.org/recovery for more info.
Shelter from the Storm
A confidential small group focused
on finding hope and healing from
sexual abuse. Contact Michelle at
shelterfromthestormibc@gmail.com
or (214) 725-0898.
Mental Health Grace Alliance
The Living Grace Group
Monday nights, 6:30 p.m. West B
For those who have mental illness.
Contact Pam at pamburtis@verizon.net.
Family Grace Group
Monday nights, 6:30 p.m. West A
For family members, friends, and care-
givers who support individuals with
serious mental disorders. Contact Buzz
Moody at myrabuzz@gmail.com.
NAMI Family-to-Family Class
Mondays, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
West C/D
A 12-week course designed for
families and caregivers of those
with serious mental illness. Contact
Joey at joey@netbreezeinc.com or
Debra at eumoore@yahoo.com.
Stephen Ministry at IBC
Stephen Ministers provide a listen-
ing ear and a caring presence for
IBCers going through emotionally
difficult times such as the loss of
a loved one, loss of a job, illness,
injury, divorce or other life events.
If you or someone you know could
benefit from the care of a Stephen
Minister, contact stephenministry@
irvingbible.org or (972) 560-4636.
Spousal Abuse Recovery
Confidential one-one-one counsel-
ing to explore the wounds we have
received and the healing journey
that God has prepared for us. Con-
tact Kym at kyeichner@irvingbible.org.
MARRIAGE
Growing Together
Marriage at IBC is currently on a
break until fall 2014. Contact mar-
riage@irvingbible.org with questions.
Pre-Marriage Counseling
Using Saving your Marriage Before
It Starts, engaged couples work
with mentor couples to develop
practical tools for a lasting and
loving future. Register at irvingbible.
org/marriage and choose the pre-
marriage tab.
MEN
Community and Resources
First Watch Fridays, 6:22 a.m.
The Commons
Join us as we explore what it means
to be a godly man in the world. Hot
coffee, donuts, bananas. Contact
Nat at npugh@irvingbible.org.
First Watch Replay
Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.
Training Center
Contact brianarrington1@yahoo.
com with questions.
First Watch Xtra
Wednesday, 6:30 a.m.
Training Center
Contact bcope@huntoil.com.
Visit irvingbible.org/men.
MISSION
Local and Global
2435 Volunteer Recruitment
July 21, 6:30 p.m.
Come hear volunteer opportuni-
ties for 2435 Kinwest and how you
can use your talents and time to
serve our community in a tangible
way. Contact Lauren at lmoussa@
irvingbible.org for more info.
Supplies for Success Backpack
Drive Begins July 27
See article, pg. 6.
Prayer Meeting
2nd and 4th Wednesdays,
6:458 p.m. The Chapel
Join us as we pray for IBC, the
needs of our people and the world.
Laundry Love first Saturday
of the month, 9 a.m.12 p.m.
Located at Amigo Laundromat,
3349 Country Club Dr. in Irving
(just down from Sam Houston
Middle School). Please join us as
we provide free laundry cycles and
detergent, strike up conversations
and build relationships. For more
info visit llpirving.org or contact
info@llpirving.org.
SINGLE PARENTS
Community and Resources
Community and Resources
Kids Night Out Splash
Night July 19, 6-9 p.m.
See ad, pg. 16.
Girl Stuff Project Runway
July 26, 10 a.m. The Zone
Join us for Project Runway: Fashion
Design and Modeling. This event is
open to all girls from single-parent
families. The event is free and
brunch is included. RSVP to Marsha
at mtribbett@irvingbible.org or
(972) 560-4653.
Sit with us on Sunday!
Several single-parent families enjoy
worshiping together in the 9 a.m. ser-
vice. Join us in the lowest right-hand
section, Rows 5 & 6, facing the stage.
Visit irvingbible.org/singleparents.
SPECIAL NEEDS
Community and Resources
Respite Care July 26
Respite Care provides a much
needed night off for parents. Kids
enjoy fun activities and a safe
environment. Each child will receive
a one-on-one pal. RSVP to Shannon
at specialneeds@irvingbible.org.
In His Image Bible Study
Wednesdays, 6:307:45 p.m.
Training Room
A small group for adults (18+) with
special needs.
SonShine Pals and Room
Our SonShine Rooms are available
during the 10:45 a.m. service for
children with special needs. There
are also opportunities for children
to be matched with a SonShine Pal.
Contact specialneeds@irvingbible.org.
STUDENTS
Middle/High School and College
Middle School Sundays
Life on Life Student Ministries
area, 10:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
Middle School Beach Camp
July 14-18
Register today at irvingbible.org/
middleschool.
High School Sundays
Life Groups Student Ministry area,
6:45-8 p.m.
High School Beach Camp
July 10-14
Register today at irvingbible.org/
highschool.
IBC College Ministry
Sundays at 3:30 p.m.
The Commons Annex
For latest info on times and loca-
tions of college events, join the
Facebook group: College at IBC.
Contact mconnor@irvingbible.org.
WOMEN
Community and Resources
Square One Starts September
18, Thursdays, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
You and your 0-6 month old will
connect with mentor moms and
other first-time moms. Content
squareone@irvingbible.org to regis-
ter. See article, pg. 11.
Save-the-date Womens
Christmas Dinner December 2
See ad, pg. 17.
Visit irvingbible.org/women.
YOUNG ADULTS
20s and Early 30s
The Gathering Thursdays, July
10, 7 p.m. The Commons
Join us for a night of worship and
prayer. Contact Chris at cspalding@
irvingbible.org.
Summer Fun!
July 18: Volleyball night at the Sand
Shack; July 25: Game Night; Visit
irvingbible.org/youngadults for
more info.
Visit irvingbible.org/youngadults.
2435 KINWEST
Wednesday Nights at IBC
FREE Citizenship Class
Wednesdays, 6:308 p.m.
IBC Conference Room
For those at least 18 years old who
have been issued a Permanent
Resident Card. We will help prepare
you for the citizenship test and
the interview. Contact Norma at
2435citizenship@irvingbible.org.
IBC Career Transition Ministry
Wednesdays, 6:308 p.m.
Want to find a job? Come learn how
to craft a rock-solid resume, use the
Internet and LinkedIn to network,
and ace the interview. For more
info, contact 2435jobtransition@
irvingbible.org.
2435 Volunteer Recruitment
July 21, 6:30 p.m.
Come hear volunteer opportuni-
ties for 2435 Kinwest and how you
can use your talents and time to
serve our community in a tangible
way. Contact Lauren at lmoussa@
irvingbible.org for more info.
Visit 2435kinwest.org.
MISCELLANEOUS
A Little Bit of Everything
Financial Peace University
Begins September 17
Save-the-date for FPU, a 9-week
program that empowers you to
make the right money decisions
to achieve your financial goals and
experience a total money makeover.
Visit irvingbible.org/fpu for more info.
Red Cross Blood Drive
July 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Please sign-up for the Red Cross
Blood Drive. Sign-ups will be avail-
able July 13 and 20 in Town Square
after services, or you can sign-up on
July 27. Contact kcox@irvingbible.
org.
New Arrivals
Congratulations to these IBC
families on the births of their babies:
Doug and Angela McCulley and
their daughter Allison Ruth, born
May 15 at 7 lbs, 5 oz, and 19 inches.
Mike and Kristen Seamans
and their daughter Kendall
Vaughan, born April 28 at 6
lbs, 8 oz, and 18.25 inches.
Chris and Melanie Mechsner and
their daughter Aubrey Jo, born May
5 at 7 lbs, 8 oz, and 20.5 inches.
YOUNG
ADULTS:
Join us for fun summer activities
throughout the month!
July 10: The Gathering worship night
July 18: Volleyball Night at the Sand Shack
July 25: Game Night
Find out more info at irvingbible.org/youngadults or
contact Chris at cspalding@irvingbible.com.
Save-the Date: August 14
Join us for the fall kick-of for The Gathering with a night of wor-
ship. We will spend the evening celebrating the amazing things
God is doing in and through the lives of the Young Adults at IBC.
For kids in single-parent families
Where: Cimarron Family Aquatic Center
201 Red River Trail, Irving, 75063
(Please look for the table out front to check-in)
Don't miss...
Hot Dogs & Popsicles
Water Slides and pool with zero entry (like a beach)
Small pool for younger kids
Life vests and lifeguards on site
Who: Kids 5 and older are invited to attend. Parents are welcome
to stay with their kids and hang out if pre-registered online.
Register: Pre-register at irvingbible.org/singleparents and choose
the Kids Night Out section.
Questions? Contact Jennifer jerlenbusch@irvingbible.org.
Through the Tom Thumb Good Neighbor and Kroger Neighbor-
to-Neighbor Programs, supporting the ministries of IBC is easy.
Every time you make a purchase, a portion of your total will be
donated to Irving Bible Church. Kroger Customers will need to
register online.
Its Simple:
Download and print forms at irvingbible.org/donate and follow
the instructions to link your reward cards to IBC. Kroger Custom-
ers will need to register online.
Even if you have linked your Kroger reward card to IBC before,
you must re-link your card for the new collection period. The Tom
Thumb program is ongoing. (Tom Thumb IBC Charity #: 3317)
For more information, contact Leigh at lwoo@irvingbible.org.
Do Your Normal Grocery Shopping
and Help IBC at the Same Time.
SATURDAY, JULY 19, 69 P.M.
FIRST WATCH
SUMMER
BREAKOUTS:
Every Friday, starting August 1
6:22 a.m. in The Commons
Breakout topics:
Spiritual Conversations: Tilling the Soil for the Gospel
Many of us nd talking about spiritual topics with family, friends,
and acquaintances to be intimidating, frustrating, and downright
scary. But what if you could feel empowered and excited to engage
others in spiritual conversations?
Work as Worship
Many Christians from the CEO to the teacher to the stay-at-home
mom spend a great deal of time working and yet do not realize
how their work intersects with their faith. This series will challenge
us to consider the reasons God calls us to work, and why he may
have you in your current work situation.
Unstuck
Its easy for Christians to nd themselves caught up in the life of
cluttered schedules, rhythms, and routines. Our jobs, relationships,
and schedules easily overwhelm us and we feel stuck. How can we
nd freedom?
Five Lies That Ruin Relationships
Have you ever looked back over a situation or relationship in your life
and wondered how it became so messy or difcult? In this series, we
will dene ve of the most common lies that have the potential to
ruin relationships with the people we love.
HOT COFFEE
*
DONUTS
*
BANANAS
Remember all the questions you asked
when you got home with your rst baby?
What if Im not doing this right?
What if they dont stop crying?
Will I ever sleep again?
If you or a woman you know is a brand-new, rst-time mom, Square One
is a great opportunity to connect with other moms and nd encouragement,
support, and a litle help for those difcult questions along the way.
When: Thursdays, September 18October 23
Time: 10 a.m.12 p.m.
Where: Comfort Zone 4, Irving Bible Church
Who: For rst-time moms with a baby
6 months old or younger
Cost: Free
To register or ask questions, please email squareone@irvingbible.org.
SAVE THE DATE:
Womens
Christmas
Dinner
DivorceCare
August 14 - November 6 (weekly)
The Living Room (Formerly the Mens Conference Room)
10 participants max
Divorce or separation is a confusing time, leaving you
isolated with questions and issues youve never faced
before. But you dont have to walk through this season
of life alone. DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of
people who will walk alongside you to help rebuild your
life and work towards healing.
Register at irvingbible.org/supportgroups. KidZone is
available by registration at irvingbible.org/kidzone.
Before you pack up your beach bag and
head out on vacation this summer, mark
your calendar for the annual Women
at IBC Christmas Dinner. It will be here
before you know it! This years event will
feature a delicious meal, unique tabl-
escapes, and an exceptional Christmas
concert with worship recording artist
Meredith Andrews. All rafe proceeds will
be used to empower women in Africa.
Questions? Contact Jennifer at
jlewis@irvingbible.org
If youre interested in volunteering
or would like to host a rafe table,
please contact Nichole Bentley at
bentleynm@gmail.com.
Tuesday, December 2 6-9 p.m. IBC
Chatter | 18
First Worship Service: 9 a.m.
Childrens Classes (all ages)
Synergy (40s & 50s), the Alcove
The Tree (young marrieds and families), West D
Second Worship Service: 10:45 a.m.
Childrens Classes (all ages)
Crossroads (mid 20s-30s couples), West C
On Track (single parents), Conference Room
Journey (all welcome), The Alcove
Renew (multi-generational), Training Center
Thrive (30s & 40s singles), West D
Third Worship Service: 5 p.m.
Childrens Classes (all ages)
Community Dinner: 6 p.m.
Community Events: 6:45 p.m.
Legacy Builders (all welcome), West A
Middle School, The Commons
High School, Student Ministries Area
SUNDAY COMMUNITY MEALS
Join us in the Town Square for our community meal
on Sundays at 6 p.m. Meals are $3 per person or $10
max./family.
7/6 NO MEAL. Happy 4th of July!
7/13 Pizza, salad bar
7/20 All American burgers and brats, chips,
salad bar.
7/27 Giant potatoes with all the
fixins, salad bar.
If youd like to serve on a Sunday night meal
team, contact Pat OReilly at (214) 289-6176 or
sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org.
WEDNESDAY MIDWEEK MEALS
Each Wednesday night from 5-6:20 p.m., IBC pre-
pares dinner for anyone wanting a good, hot meal.
PB&J sandwiches are also available. Cost is $3/meal
or $10 max./family. Just come by The Commons and
grab a plate!
7/2 Lasagna, bread sticks, salad, dessert.
7/9 Chicken tender sandwich, salad,
chips, dessert.
7/16 Deluxe burgers, pickle spears,
cole slaw, dessert.
7/23 Pizza, salad, dessert.
7/30 Chopped bbq sandwiches, baked beans,
pickle spears, cole slaw, chips, dessert.
Changes to the menu may be made depending on
food cost, availability, and Bob Downeys whim.
If youd like to serve on a Wednesday night meal
team, please email bdowney@irvingbible.org.
THE MOSAIC CAF (THE MO)
Caf Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,
and Friday: 9 a.m.1 p.m.
Wednesday: 9 a.m.1 p.m.; 47 p.m.
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 8 a.m.12:30 p.m.; 47 p.m.
Phone: (972) 4433323
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
My Time, Talents & Skills
Medical Professionals Needed
Our 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.
Childrens Ministry Leaders
Each Sunday we help about 800 kids grow in Christ and
connect in community. We are in need of people of all ages
to invest in the next generation of nursery, preschool, and
elementary aged kids. We have opportunities for all skill
sets. Contact Melody at mparlett@irvingbible.org.
Safety Team
Do you have a desire to serve and protect others? Then the
IBC safety team on Sunday is for you. Contact Chris Rose at
crose@irvingbible.org. Please include any credentials and
relevant experience.
NFNL Volunteers
On the third Wednesday of each month we need help
serving dinner to the women of New Friends New Life at
Preston Road Church of Christ. Contact Christine at new-
friendsnewlife@irvingbible.org.
Mentor Kids in Single-Parent Families
Men and women are needed for gender-specic mentoring
of children from single parent families. Contact Marsha at
mtribbett@irvingible.org.
Meal Team Volunteers
IBC 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.
The Main Place
The Main Place provides clothing for homeless teens in Ir-
ving ISD. Contact Sharon at themainplace@irvingbible.org.
My Resources
Laptops for My Refuge House
Want to tangibly help victims of sex trafcking? Donate
your used, but operational laptop to the mission depart-
ment and they will be sent to the girls at My Refuge House
for their school program. Contact Lauren at lmoussa@
irvingbible.org.
Laundry Soap and Dryer Sheets
Laundry Love is collecting laundry soap and dryer
sheets for their monthly events in Irving. Please bring
these to the Laundry Love box in the donation area by
the Training Center. For more info visit llpirving.org or
contact info@llpirving.org.
Online Giving Option
If you would nd it more convenient to donate to the minis-
tries of Irving Bible Church online, visit irvingbible.org/give.
HOW DO I GIVE?
Were so glad youre here. Sometimes its hard to know
where to begin, but we want to make the process of con-
necting and feeling at home as easy as possible. Here are
some ways to start.
The Information Center is a great place to get your ques-
tions answered, nd help and encouragement for your per-
sonal journey, or just have a cup of cofee and settle in. Our
team of volunteers would be happy to help you, and our
goal is to make you feel at home. The Information Center
is open every Sunday after all three worship services.
The Newcomer Gathering is an informal get-together
for those new to IBC and/or those wanting to learn more
about who we are, what we believe and how to get plugged
in. Meet other newcomers, ministry leaders and elders.
Cant seem to gure out what IBC is all about or how
you t into the larger picture? Want free breakfast every
Sunday for four weeks? Propel is designed to help you
gure out how to best plug in to IBCs culture and calling.
Well talk about what it means to grow in Christ, connect
in community and join the mission and what that might
look like for you. Youll also learn more about membership
at IBC.
Small groups exist to cultivate deep relationships that
advance the kingdom of God in dark places dark places
in our world, in our relationships and in our hearts. We
do this in the context of sermon-based Bible studies that
meet in homes. Groups comprise 12 people or fewer and
are formed by leaders who have completed small group
leader training. To sign up for a group or get more info,
contact Ryan Sanders at rsanders@irvingbible.org.
New to IBC?
Information Center
Have questions? Were here to help.
irvingbible.org/connect
Small Groups
Connect with others on the journey.
irvingbible.org/smallgroups
Propel
Ready to get plugged in?
irvingbible.org/connect
Newcomer Gathering
Learn more about IBC
and meet others like you.
irvingbible.org/connect
Interested in learning more about IBCs budget for 2014 or other
nancial nuts and bolts? Visit irvingbible.org/budget beginning in February.
Chatter | 19
Damascus
Roadside
Attractions
Having read through the Bible several
times not counting Leviticus, Num-
bers, that one really long Psalm, the
Minor Prophets or Third John (the
second sequel is always the worst) Ive
learned a few things and applied even
less. Naturally, I tend to keep an eye out
for the often-overlooked minutiae of the
Greatest Story Ever Told as Produced
by Mark Burnett and the Angel That
Touched Him, and one such seemingly (and probably) irrelevant item Ive
noticed is that events in the Bible only take place during the summer. You read
me right, mon amie, there is no winter in the Word.
Sure, some would argue that most of the Bible is set in what is considered a cli-
matic subtropical zone that does not, therefore, experience extreme seasonal
swings. By this logic, you could call El Paso the Jerusalem of Tejas, so like,
whatever, hippies, knock it of. The point Im trying to make, however obliquely,
is that the Bible, being the repository of Truth that it is, obviously points to the
Holy Land as the ultimate place to take a road trip in the family truckster. Or
chariot. Or donkey. Or the communal sandals. Hope theyre Keens.
Of course, Im not recommending that you drive all the way to Israel as the
Atlantic would prove too difcult for even the most lightly scufed of Range
Rovers to ford, and no one wants to go through Jersey anyway. But once youve
alighted with your brood upon the fertile soil of the Fertile Crescent, acquired
a suitable rental vehicle/mammal and red up your phones Gospel Posi-
tioning System (see what I did there, huh, huh?), you may be left wondering,
Where did all my cash go? Also, Is this robe made of CoolMax? And nally,
Where can we go thats of the beaten path of holy hucksterism, but still lls
our family with awe, reverence, wonder and hummus? Glad I asked for you.
Peters Mother-In-Laws Apartment Above a restored bungalow along a
quiet side street in Bethsaida that once possibly belonged to Simon The Origi-
nal and Forever Champion Rock Peter has an apartment that even less prob-
ably belonged to his mother-in-law, whom I like to think was named Mama
Baklava. However, this small abode has since been converted into a yeastless
carb bar named, not Mama Bs, but Uncle Sis Hardtack Haven (Home of the
throwed, unleavened, concussive rolls.). Bring the kids if you want to combine
lessons in Biblical- and Civil War-era cracker making (history times two!),
the benets of yeast (science!) and niche marketing (niche marketing!). Just
remember there are no public restrooms available. Or ketchup.
Leper Larrys Leperatorium This celebration of all things leprous is akin
to taking your kids to the see the (True Fact Alert) barbed wire exhibit at the
National Agricultural Hall of Fame in Bonner Springs, Kansas. Its highly
educational, slightly creepy, and you really shouldnt touch anything. Granted,
the lepers at Larrys arent genuine; this is the 21st century, people we have
treatments for such things available under Netanyahucare. Nonetheless, the
kiddos will learn all sorts of Biblical truths about kindness, generosity and
hygiene. And everyone will love the Cirque du Soleil-style nale.
House of Nard Sure, you could pick up a lovely alabasterique box of airport-
quality nard at the Ben Gurion duty free shop, but thats cheating. And quite
possibly Crisco. Instead, walk in the footsteps of Mary of Bethany and go for
the good stuf. Is a years wages too much to spend when teaching your spawn
about the pricelessness of Christs love? Dave Ramsey would say yes. I would
say that Upromise credit card is about to kick back some sweet rewards.
Legions Landing & Swine Hills (Dual Attraction) If youre feeling moved
by the Spirit or happened to have clipped the 2-for-1 admission coupon from
the Thrifty Shekel, youll want to cross over into Jordan to visit the ancient
site of Gadara, where Jesus healed a demoniac and wasted an awful lot of
bacon. While the exact site of the Lords combo miracle is unknown (despite
what Rabbi Ralphs Map of Gentile Foolishness might say), this rarely busy
attraction boasts an animatronic demoniac that eerily resembles a rst
generation Andrew Jackson from EPCOTs Hall of Presidents, a kosher deli,
sno-cones and the worlds only Pig-A-Pult in which youngsters get to yank the
cord on a trebuchet and send Honeybakeds gamiest rejects hurtling into the
Sea of Galilee.
Zacchaeuss Sycamore Everyone whos been subjected to kindergarten-level
Sunday school or VBS knows the cruel, heightism-encouraging ditty about
Zacchaeus and his challenges as a stature-disadvantaged seeker. Now, for
just a few shekels per person, each member of your family limber enough to
shimmy up a sycamore without straining a UB (upper booty) tendon can catch
a glimpse of what the reformed tax collector himself might have seen had he
managed to double Methuselahs lifespan. That is, an internet caf. On the plus
side, cus sycomorus trees can actually live over 2,000 years, so you might not
be getting totally eeced out of your shekels.
But if anyone claims their cus sycomorus is the Mother Tree of Fig Newtons,
walk away as quickly as your Keens will carry you.
Jason Fox has discovered that the Gretna Corn Maze is a poor substitute for the
Via Dolorosa.
Jason writes from Omaha, Nebraska, for reasons that neither the Lord nor Lori at Tyndale know why.
On the regular, the
Chatter staff gets a serious
hankering for the hummus
from Veranda Greek Cafe.
Chatter wont think twice to
Brian Regan a sleeve of Fig
Newtons (think wood-chipper).
Chatteryou 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.
Chatter yucks-it-up with his buddies from
the Crossroads Bible Community at Riverbend
Retreat Center in Glen Rose, Texas.