JANUARY 2013

a letter from

Chatter

face. It started with Christ, and it makes spatial sense to the observer because of Christ. This new year of 2013 has a wide range of possible vanishing points for our lives, many available origins for our perspective. Our family might be a vanishing point. Our kids might give the year its contours, depth, shadows, and light. Another might be mere survival just getting through everything with our head down and our hands busy. Another vanishing point could be our own indulgence. After all, its a new year and we are not getting any younger. This is a chance to let my hair down and live in the moment. Not all vanishing points seem problematic until we remember that the essence of a vanishing point demands that it be strong enough, legitimate enough, central enough for us to base the whole composition of our lives all of our attitudes, emotions, and decisions. Our vanishing point will affect whether our lives seem distorted, unrealistic, irrelevant, two-dimensional. Or if they will be beautiful, realistic, meaningful masterpieces. Does such a thing or person exist? Colossians 1:17 makes no bones about it when the Apostle Paul reminds his readers that [Christ] is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Other translations refer to all things as all creation or everything else. Whether we acknowledge it or not, Christ was the Originator of everything in the beginning and keeps everything going even now including us, including this year. Are the proportions and contours of your life emanating from the True Vine, the true vanishing point? Jesus is the person in whom everything meets. He gives all of it a place at the table and a reason for being. But its up to you to live as though its true this year. Its up to you to hammer in the nail.

cis The Last Supper in the quiet refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. The cavernous room was dark, the air balanced with just the perfect humidity to preserve the great work. Large and luminous, the disciples crowding along the dinner table are abuzz with tension. This is the moment right after Jesus speaks of his Betrayer. Leonardo was a master of the artistic developments in the Renaissance age. Instead of reproducing the flat, 2-dimensional iconography preeminent in the middle ages, Da Vinci integrated the principles of linear perspective to give his work depth, emotion, and greater naturalism. One of these devices is known as the vanishing point. Think of looking down a length of railroad tracks follow them with your eyes until the two parallel rails appear to meet on the faraway horizon. The optical illusion of this coming together is the vanishing point. It gives everything in the scene a 3D framework, a place to start. The vanishing point in The Last Supper happens to be Christs head or his right eye, to be more precise. When Leonardo began prep work for his great painting, he hammered a nail into the wall on a point close to where Jesus eye would be situated. He then tied strings to the nailhead and stretched them out across the 29-foot expanse designated for the mural. These strings would guide his hand as he developed a lifelike, recognizable scene of men gathered for dinner. They would direct how big or small each object would be, and at what angle. The Last Supper is large, complicated, and emotive, but it all started with a small, singular point from which everything else seems to emanate. It literally began with Christ, and the vanishing point draws the eye naturally to Christs

I had the great privilege last summer of standing before Leonardo Da Vin-

Editor Julie Rhodes Art Direction, Design & Goodness Josh Wiese, Lindsey Sobolik, Dennis Cheatham The Final Say Julie Pierce Admin Extraordinaire Victoria Andrews Editorial Assistance/Proofing Summer Alexander* Annie Stone*

Photography Evan Chavez (Propel)* Patty Thompson (Womens Christmas Dinner)* Writers Jason Fox (Idle Chatter)* Peggy Norton (Propel)*

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.

Thanks for picking up Chatter. Chatter is a publication of Irving Bible Church in Irving, Texas.
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).

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 transformed 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).

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 information 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.

Photo Update: Womens Christmas Dinner

The December 4 Womens Christmas Dinner welcomed Dove-award winning artist Kari Jobe for an evening of festive music, great food, and beautiful tables. Each year, IBC women join together to empower African women through IBC parter ALARM. This years dinner sponsored 20+ Congolese women to attend a conference for rape victims.

The Summit/IBC Annual Meeting, January 26

REMINDER:

A few times a year, the IBC staff gathers to honor the amazing volunteers who serve, lead, and shepherd the body of IBC along the journey. We call this The Summit. But January 26 will be unique because The Summit will combine with the IBC Annual Meeting, a time when elders present the nuts and bolts of the operating budget and share current issues facing the leadership. You do not need to be an IBC member to attend. So if youre a current IBC volunteer, or just someone interested in whats happening at IBC in 2013, we invite you to join us. Its a cant-miss gathering!

DeTAIlS: Saturday, January 26 in The Commons. A light breakfast and coffee will be provided at 8:30 a.m. in the Haven with the official gathering beginning at 8:45. Because childcare will be outsourced, we ask that you please register at least a week prior to this event. Space is limited, so please consider alternative childcare arrangements for your family if possible. Visit irvingbible.org/summit to register. Questions? contact Victoria at vandrews@irvingbible.org.

A Sea of Red Candles

new buildings. Its not a vision of a fancy new technology. Its not a vision of multiple church sites or manifold new ministries. Its a vision of a sea of red candles. At IBC, we have a tradition during the response time in our services of lighting red candles on the platform to represent yet another man, woman, boy or girl who has crossed the line of faith and become a brother or sister in Christ. People are invited to light that red candle for themselves or for a friend or family member who has trusted Christ as their Savior. The IBC congregation regularly takes great delight in seeing those red candles, and thanking God that his forever family has grown! Our vision for the next two years at IBC is a sea of red candles. We rejoice in several each week, but we dream of seeing, well, way more than that! Why? Because we believe this is our God-given mission as a church: life transformation through Jesus Christ. (Read more about this mission on the next two pages of Chatter.) Our newly honed Vision Compass states: In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus gives a brief account of His purpose in life: The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). Out of love for rebellious people, Jesus left the glory of heaven to enter into the darkness of this world to bring the light of life that can only be found in Him. If this was central to the mission Jesus came to accomplish, then it must become central to our mission as well. Just before He returned to the Father, Jesus said to His disciples, As the Father sent me, I am sending you (John 20:21). We are the sent ones, compelled into the world to bring the good news of the One who has rescued us to those who desperately need to hear (Mark 5:36; John 4:41; John 17:8; 1 Peter 3:15). This good news, this gospel, is the story of Jesus, the Son of God, entering into the world to bring light, life and hope. The promise of the gospel is that we can receive forgiveness and eternal life by trusting in what Christ has accomplished through his cross and resurrection; but it is also the promise that one day Jesus will come again to take all that is wrong with the world and make it right, and all that is broken in the world and make it whole. We cling to this promise with all weve got, and when we do, it changes us. As Richard Peace writes: In the end, this is what evangelism is all about: conversion to Jesus. It is about discovering who Jesus really is even as we discover who we
God has put an exciting vision on the hearts of IBCs pastors, elders, and key lay leaders for the next two years. Its not a vision of shiny

really are. It is about deciding to stop living in destructive, unfulfilling ways and instead turn around and start following Jesus as we pursue wholeness. Conversion is the word we use to describe the experience of turning around and following Jesus (Richard Peace, Holy Conversation, p. 17). At IBC, we believe that the Gospel is not just a proposition to be preached, but a service to be performed as the Church incarnates the love of God in this dark and sin-cursed world. As IBC elder John Girgis recently wrote: The society and our culture is moving away from what we all hold dear and all believe is truth, and its uncomfortable and scary in many ways Maybe we can look at the early church and see an example of how they dealt with similar and harder issuesI love what Paul encourages the Ephesians to do in similar situations: Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church (Eph 4:15). I am praying Acts 4:29-30 for IBC, that God will do great miracles and bring our community closer to Him and transform Irving, DFW, and the World through us. A sea of red candles! Again, to quote our IBC Vision Compass: 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. Heres a practical application of that calling from the heart of IBC Pastor Bryan Eck. Bryan serves on the Lead Team and coordinates the work and visionof the Lead Team as Lead Team Pastor. He writes: I have a proposalWhat if every time we went to listen or watch or read news we stopped and turned our attention to praying for God to bring non-believers into our path? What if we started reading books like Deep and Wide: Creating Churches for UnChurched People by Andy Stanley, or Center Church by Tim Keller, or UnChristian by Gabe Lyons? What if we called or emailed that one friend or new friend that doesnt know Jesus to ask how they are doing? What if we went to read one of the Gospels with a focus on how Jesus interacted with non-believers? What if we went and sat at the entrance to the new neighborhood being built a mile from the church and prayed for the 10,000 people that will be moving there in the upcoming year? I am going to try itI believe it will be really good for me, because honestly I dont pray enough, reach out to my non-believing friends, or read the Gospels enough. Most importantly, I am praying it focuses me on the sea of red candles. There it is again a sea of red candles! This vision is reiterated in the writings of IBC Teaching Team Pastor, Dr. Barry Jones: If a culture is going to be changed, it needs: Churches that make disciples that make disciples. Thats why I couldnt be more passionate about our Sea of Red Candles vision, our prayer that God would use us to see

Chatter | 4

A candle manufacturer is traditionally known as a chandler. So is Matthew Perry.

Snuffers Restaurant in Dallas has the best fried pickles, hands-down.

a whole lot of people come to new faith in Jesus. But I do think weve got to also be asking, What if God gives us what we ask for? How are we prepared (or preparing) to turn converts into disciples?...The culture wont believe the story we tell if they dont see it lived compellingly in our lives. Thats why I love the people of IBC, many of whom are living the story so beautifully as they give and serve and love so well in local schools, in laundry mats, in medical clinics, in small groups, and the list could go onSeek first the reign of God and his restorative justice, and all the other stuff youre worried about will take care of itself. Im so passionately committed to IBC because Ive never been a part of a church that employs this strategy better. Lets keep lighting candles. Yes, a sea of them! There are two immediate ways IBC will be embracing the Sea of Red Candles vision in early 2013: first through the celebration of the Epiphany season, and secondly through a corresponding sermon series entitled Sent. The elders and staff warmly invite you to engage both this month with expectation. I love the season of Epiphany because its the time of year when Christians celebrate Jesus as the Light of the World. Epiphany comes from the Greek word that means manifestation or appearing. The global church has used that word in association with the weeks between Christmas and the beginning of Lent to commemorate the appearing of Jesus as the Savior of the world, and to remind Christians of their mission to make Christ known to a world lost in darkness. In light of that (pun intended!), the IBC Teaching Team will be focusing our attention on what it means to be Sent during Epiphany this year. We will explore what it means that Christians are called to be people who bring light to the darkness and put the beauty of the kingdom on display, searching out what the Scriptures have to say about the following elements of being sent to seek a sea of red candles:
PASSIoN God is passionate about people entering into his life-giving love. We should be, too. PRAYER Evangelism is more about pleading with God about people than pleading with people about God. PREvENIENCE God is already at work in peoples lives before we show up. Look for God at work and join him. PRoxIMITY Each of us has our own personal parish. Being sent means fully identifying with and giving yourself to those God has called you to reach. EPIPhany SEaSon anD SEnT

sidering others more important than ourselves as we give our lives away to serve like Jesus.

PoWERLESSNESS Living sent means emptying ourselves and con-

PRoCLAMATIoN As we develop the lifestyle of living sent, our opportunities to tell people the life-giving story of Gods love in Christ will be natural, even inescapable.

We hope youll join us during the next six weeks as we explore the power of light in a dark world. We also pray that the season of Epiphany truly becomes a time of renewed joy and passion in your walk with Christ as you seek to put his glorious appearing on display. If you are interested to learn more about how the elders and leaders came to the Sea of Red Candles vision for 2013, check out the next two pages of Chatter. IBCs newly honed Vision Compass beautifully captures the unique attributes of the IBC body while articulating how and why we exist. I hope you will prayerfully engage with it, and be blessed as you ponder how the Sea of Red Candles vision might manifest itself in your own life this year. Pastor Andy did not have an accurate number of candles on his most recent birthday cake.
As Senior Pastor, Dr. McQuitty is a member of the IBC Elder Board and Lead Team.

AlphA is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life and the core of Christianity in a relaxed, friendly setting. Alpha is for all kinds of people the skeptics, the seekers, the spiritually curious who are searching out spiritual truths, clear direction for their journey, and a safe haven for all honest questions. January 19 March 20, 6:308 p.m. in West A Questions? Contact Paul at alpha@irvingbible.org.

The Old Man and The Sea was Ernest Hemingways final work published in his lifetime.

Chatter | 5

IBC VIsIon Compass

Last spring, a select group of elders, staff, and key lay leaders spent many hours praying over, dreaming about, and discussing the next 50 years vision for IBC that God had been putting on our hearts. As we celebrated Gods faithfulness on our churchs Jubilee year (2012), we also wanted to confirm our direction and values going into the next half-century of ministry. Thats what we did in the IBC Vision Compass. Nothing is changing in IBCs fundamental mission and goals as we enter the next 50 years. Weve sought only to clarify and systematize the principles that have guided us in the past in this simple yet comprehensive re-statement of IBCs mission, strategy, values, and ministry goals. Heres a brief outline of that statement. The full whitepage document can be found online at irvingbible.org/ about/mission-and-vision.

Mission

(what we do)

Life transformation through Jesus Christ Values

(the environment we do it in)

Scripture (guided by Gods Word) Grace (liberated by Gods love) Prayer (strengthened by Gods presence) Generosity (motivated by Gods gifts) Authenticity (secured by Gods acceptance) Creativity (inspired by Gods beauty)
(how we do it)

strategy

1. Growing in Christ 2. Connecting in community 3. Joining the mission life Marks 1. 2. 3.

(our target for our people)

Living like Jesus lived Regularly engaged in time with the Father Wholly devoted to Gods perfect will Loving like Jesus loved Graciously disposed toward all Intimately connected to a few Serving like Jesus served Passionately responsive to the needs of others Lovingly pursuing people far from God

Perhaps the most important element in the Vision Compass is our Mission: life transformation through Jesus Christ. Again, this mission is nothing new to the heartbeat of IBC; it is only newly crafted language to express what has been driving us all along. As the full-length Vision Compass white paper states (find it at irvingbible.org/about/missionand-vision): [ Jesus Christ] is the Risen Savior whose redemptive work on the cross and whose infilling Holy Spirit transforms believing sinners into saints, death into life, darkness into light, injustice into shalom, cynicism into faith and despair into hope. As Christs disciples, we are His hands and feet in both initiating and completing this life transformation in and through and for people all over the world (Matthew 28:16-20). And how do we do this? By growing in Christ, connecting in community, and joining Jesus in his mission (our Strategy). This might already sound familiar to you as our Journey language, but it gets its motivation only as we desire to see our own lives and the lives of those around us transformed by Jesus. Life transformation through Jesus Christ is the engine that drives everything we do. It is the heartbeat behind our 20132014 Sea of Red Candles vision, and will propel us wherever else God may lead after that. On behalf of the elders and IBC Leadership, let me say what a privilege it is to serve with you as we live out this mission in the countless ministries and connections taking place in and through the people of Irving Bible Church. We look ahead to the next 50 years with great hope and anticipation for all God will do in our midst for his kingdoms sake! Pastor Andy

Chatter | 6

1940s Marvel predecessor Timely Comics published stories featuring the Vision, a superhero alien from an alternate dimension.

Mission Foods (of tortilla fame) is based here in Irving, TX.

32.916n 96.983n

Mission
Life transformation through Jesus Christ.

Values
Scripture Grace Prayer Generosity Authenticity Creativity

strategy
Growing in Christ. Connecting in community. Joining the mission.

life Marks
Living like Jesus. Loving like Jesus. Serving like Jesus.

The magnetic compass was first invented as a device for divination as early as the Chinese Han Dynasty.

Chatter | 7

WoRD
To 2013
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10 13

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Guess the Mayans got it wrong. Here you are, still reading Chatter. (Lucky you!) Whether or not youre surprised to find yourself in 2013, the New Year always brings good cheer, bad resolutions and time for family and friends. Now, it also brings you wait for it words.
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Across 1. Last name of Mad Men starlette January 35 4. Womens Retreat Speaker for 2013 6. Manufacturer of Times Square Ball 13. Ryan ___________ 14. Our calendar 15. Founder of January financial series 18. Premium Champagne brand 20. _______ Clark 23. Propel couple, or hotel 24. 2013 marks the 150th anniversary of this battle 26. Most toast-able 27. Chinese Year of the ___________ 30. Epiphany series 31. Name for Korean New Years Day 34. Planning system based on Benjamin Franklins writings 35. IBC 2013 vision 36. Gym chain founded by Chin Yol Yi and Lewis Welch in 1984. 37. First Watch January series 39. The first weekday of 2013 Down 2. Auld Lang ______ 3. French for January 5. Country planning an unmanned moon landing in 2013 7. Womens Bible Study beginning in January 8 8. January conference at IBC 9. Clock that must strike 12 to ring in Londons New Year 10. January birthstone 11. Celestial event January 34 12. Black-eyed ______ 16. The UN has designated 2013 as the International Year of _______ 17. NYC square

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19. First city to celebrate with confetti 21. Back to the big screen in 2013 22. That 70s star in New Years Eve 25. January derives from the name of Roman god ________. 28. Top resolution 29. The opposite of January 32. Month of Thai New Year 33. Biggest recorded fireworks display in history (77,282 fireworks) celebrated the 50th anniversary of this countrys constitution 38. Jan. 1 is Independence Day in this country 40. Earliest documented use of fireworks happened here

If youre a woman at IBC, your 2013 just got a lot more relaxing.
march 1-3, 2013 camp copass, denton, tx Like a stream in the desert, an oasis can refresh your mind, body and soul. Join other women for a weekend like no other that will include challenging teaching, lots of laughs, delicious food, space to think and rest, and a breath of fresh air. Mark your calendars now to join us for this refreshing weekend. Engage with our Special Guest: Nicole Unice, author of Shes Got Issues (Our ChickLit book this month). Visit her at www.nicoleunice.com. Worship led by: Jason and Crystal Elwell Cost: Angels Hotel room for 4 - $95 Tally Retreat room for 4 or 5 - $130 Tally Retreat room for 3 - $150 Tally Retreat room for 2 - $ 185 For more information about the rooms, visit campcopass.com. Visit irvingbible.org/women/oasis-retreat.

oasis
a retreat for women

Think youre a word nerd? Send an iPhone pic of your correctly completed crossword puzzle to chatter@irvingbible.org, and get a gift card to The Mo. Because coffee is another great word for 2013. Prizes for the first 10 correct responses. Entries due before January 27.

Chatter | 8

A Story From Propel

A young couple takes time to be available to God and wait for his leading. Their first step: Propel at IBC.
Two years ago, Cooper and Lauren Hilton walked through the doors of Irving Bible Church. Cooper, an assistant principal at a Coppell elementary school, had heard good things about IBC from parents and teachers. He and Lauren had been looking for a church to attend together. Cooper and Lauren had both grown up in church. Now newly married, they wanted to find a place that worked for them as a couple. At first, they were apprehensive about the size of IBC but decided to give it a try. After attending for a year, they felt a longing to be more involved and engaged. As Lauren explains, You can go to church every Sunday and still never meet or get to know anyone. Ultimately, they decided the first step was to attend the Newcomer Gathering and then Propel, followed by the Membership class. Cooper laughs, We went in the logical order; you could say we followed the IBC handbook.

Propel made IBC seem smaller, Lauren explains. When we went to Propel, we had the opportunity to meet and see the same people each week. We finally felt like part of a community. The couple was surprised that it wasnt just newcomers like themselves who attend Propel. Some of the people in their group had been at IBC for as little as two weeks, while another had been there for seven years. But Cooper and Lauren both say that everyone who attends Propel gets something valuable out of it. You may not walk out of there ready to serve. Its more of a spiritual checkup, Lauren explains. Some people are at a stage in their lives where they may need to take care of their own needs before they can help someone else. I appreciated that the class facilitators made that clear from the beginning. Another highlight for the couple was getting a chance to hear from all the different ministries at IBC. With a church this size, theres no way you can possibly know about all the things going on, says Lauren. Learning about a different ministry each week really helped us see what IBC is all about. It was also a great way to see first-hand where and how our financial support was being used, adds Cooper. Lauren and Cooper enjoyed being table leaders so much that they signed up to lead again. It was really going through Propel the second time that led us to where we wanted to serve, Cooper says. I think you really need to take the time to listen to see where God is leading you, explains Cooper. Reflecting on all we had heard helped lead us in the right direction. And it wasnt just one ministry that inspired the Hiltons, but the entire concept of IBCs 2435 Kinwest community outreach event. The couple says they were amazed at all the activities that happen on Wednesday nights, including career training, ESL, and the 2435 Clinic. Lauren adds that the Wednesday night meals are a bonus: I will never cook on Wednesdays again, she laughs. Although neither Lauren nor Cooper has a medical background, they particularly admire the work happening in the 2435 Clinic. Lauren recently ran into someone she knew who was waiting in line for clinic services. This was a woman I knew years ago who had lost her job and her insurance. She had heard what we were doing here and needed to see a doctor. Lauren realized at that moment what a great blessing the clinic is to people from all walks of life. (The Hiltons current role in 2435 Kinwest is facilitating various classes by making sure things are set up in advance and directing new visitors around campus.) The couple admits they are just starting out in their service and arent sure where all of this will lead, but they believe being open to Gods calling is the first step. On a recent road trip, Lauren saw a church sign that aptly summarizes their journey. It said: God doesnt call the equipped. He equips the called. Propel is an experience designed to help you figure out how you can best plug into IBCs culture and calling whether youve been at IBC for 20 minutes or 20 years. 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. When: Sundays, Jan. 20 Feb. 10 at 10:45 p.m. in West A Register: irvingbible.org/connect Information: Contact Sherri at ssharp@irvingbible.org Peggy Norton has been coming to IBC for over ten years and never attended a Newcomer Gathering or the Membership class and wants a do-over!
Peggy Norton is a communications professional with over 20 years of writing experience, primarily in corporate communications. She has been married for 27 years and has one son Brandon who is attending UNT. In addition to writing for Chatter, Peggy is an IBC small group leader.

At the Newcomer Gathering, they met Community Pastor Jennifer Lefforge who advised that they take the next step on their IBC journey and attend Propel. Propel is a 4-week experience designed to help newcomers and IBC old-timers alike plug into IBCs culture and calling. Little did they know they would be called into service on day one. Cooper recalls that when they arrived at Propel the first morning, Jennifer pulled them aside. She explained they were short of table leaders and would he and Lauren mind leading? While that was an unexpected turn of events, Cooper says, we were happy to do it. The couple agreed Propel was a great way to meet people in a small-group setting. In just four weeks, they felt they knew their group members well since everyone had really opened up and shared what was going on in their lives.

WANT To FIND YoUR PLACE AT IBC?

B N B

B N T B B

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BEnEvolEnCE aT IBC

Each day, due to a variety of circumstances, people in our neighborhood find themselves in need of assistance as they move toward a more stable and brighter future. Whether its providing food, a place to stay, or cash for emergencies, IBCers were generous with their time and resources in 2012.

50
$117,000

The number of grocery bags given out per week. Thats 2,600 bags of groceries packed and given away each year.

Mac & Cheese

MOST POPULAR ITEM DONATED

Canned Meat
LEAST POPULAR ITEM DONATED (also the most nutritious and needed)

Get involved in 2013.

Amount given to provide for emergency needs (rent, utilities)

Still looking for a new years resolution? Help provide for the immediate needs of IBC families and the community this year by: Donating canned goods to the IBC Food Pantry. Donations can always be brought to the box in the Town Square where you can also pick up a list of needed items. Praying for STEP. IBC has partnered with the City of Irving through a program called STEP, Services to Empower People. This faith-based/city government collaboration combines the resources and connections found in churches and government in a way that can most holistically address needs and most effectively empower people to cope with and move through difficult times. Take time to pray for this vital partnership. Caring for the homeless. IBC is looking for volunteers to help prepare for and attend to the needs of homeless families being housed on the IBC campus. Next event: January 6. Contact Tricia at tkinsman@irvingbible.org to learn more. Spring event is April 14. Watch Chatter for details.

16

the number of homeless people (6 families) given shelter on the IBC campus in 2012

800

the number of volunteer hours given to IBCs homeless ministry in 2012

ReVelATION

Discovering Life for Today and Eternity

Womens Bible Study is tackling a challenging book of the Bible this semester with Dr. Sue Edwards study of Revelation. Chatter had a few questions for Dr. Sue as Women at IBC embark on a journey through tribulation and triumph.

Chat: We heard a rumor that you and the team are gathering a panel of experts to discuss the middle section of Revelation in greater depth. What kind of perspective can we hope to get on these difficult passages? Sue: The middle section is full of debated timelines and difficult imagery. A panel of renowned experts will explain their varied perspectives on end-times events like the vision of the heavenly throne, divine judgments in the form of sevens, the Great Tribulation, and the final judgment on Babylon. So, youll hear a variety of views to chew on, giving you fodder for determining what you believe and why. Join Women at IBC for Revelation: Discovering Life for Today and Eternity at Womens Bible Study this spring. Register today at irvingbible.org/women.

Chatter: Why write a study on Revelation? Dr. Sue edwards: Over my thirty-plus years of Bible teaching, students have requested Revelation more than any other book. Also, recently, several respected Bible teachers have predicted that Jesus second coming is imminent, and that has heightened interest in studying the book that tells us more about his return than any other. Im not making predictions, because Jesus told us in Acts 1:7, It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. I do agree that we are living in unsettling times and we certainly could be the last generation, but Im hesitant to say that we are the last generation. Chat: Your study focuses on the beginning and ending of Revelation. Why? Sue: Revelation opens with a magnificent picture of the resurrected Christ. Following that overwhelming, dazzling picture are letters from Jesus to seven churches. They represent Christian communities throughout the ages. Imagine, letters from the resurrected Jesus to us! Throughout these letters, Jesus hints at rich promises and rewards that await the faithful when he ushers in the New Heavens and the New Earth, and then eternity. We see the culmination of those promises and rewards at the end of the book. So going deep into the first and the last parts seemed like rich fare for hungry women. And the middle is better taught by experts than through a self-discovery method. Chat: What can we expect to learn from the study? Anything practical? Sue: How about what Jesus thinks of the way we live in our communities today? What delights him? What irritates him? Would that be worth knowing? Also, Jesus teaches us how to live purposefully with the end in mind. You cant get more practical than that. Chat: What was one of your favorite things about researching and writing this study? Sue: Ive studied Jesus words in the Gospels but Id never gone deep into Revelations red-lettered words. Id always assumed that John wrote the letters, but John was the scribe for Jesus. And Jesus words are particularly significant now because they are written in the context of end-times prophecy. They prepare us for whats ahead. Chat: Why are you excited about Women at IBC studying Revelation? Sue: Im hearing escalating, unsettling concerns related to the times in which we live. Globally, we are experiencing more natural disasters, economic strife, and political chaos, like birth pangs. How do we live in times like these? Revelation prepares us. And it is the only book in the Bible that promises blessings if we read and apply it. My fervent prayer and hope is that studying Revelation will calm concerns and bless my dear friends with supernatural peace that only God can give.
In 2009, Forbes magazine named the aisle of Patmos as Europes Most Idyllic Place to Live.

A Bible study for women on the book of Revelation

Begins Tuesday, January 15 9:30-11:30 a.m. or 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Commons at IBC Cost: $15 Throughout history, people have speculated about how the earth will end. Though it is often seen as the best source for end-times study, the book of Revelation is not about predicting the end, but about preparing for eternal life. Join us in this inductive study of one of the most misunderstood books of the Bible, and discover how to ready yourself for your heavenly home.
If you were not a part of Bible study this fall, please register at irvingbible.org/women. (You must register children for the Spring session of KidZone .)

Chatter | 12

Martin Sheen suffered a heart attack during the 1977 filming of Apocalypse Now.

Mental Health Grace Alliance Conference at IBC: January 19

9 a.m.4 p.m. (boxed lunch provided)
Join us for the MHGA Conference featuring Joe Padilla and Matt Stanford. Topics include biblical and clinical views of mental illness, the role of the church to equip and support caregivers and those with mental illness, and understanding and responding to destructive behaviors. Cost: $15. Please register at irvingbible.org/hope-healing/support-groups/mhga-seminar.

hope and healing at IBC

IBC offers a variety of ongoing support groups and ministries designed to provide hope and healing to the IBC family. MHGA Family Grace West C starts January 21 A support group for family members and caregivers of individuals with serious mental disorders. Contact Buzz Moody at myrabuzz@gmail.com. MHGA living Grace West A starts January 21 A support group for those who have mental illness. Contract Melissa Clark at melissar34@yahoo.com. NAMI Family to Family West D Begins February 4 A 12-week course designed to educate families and caregivers of those with serious mental illness. Contact Debra Moore at eumoore@yahoo.com. Abortion Recovery West A Begins January 28 at 6:30 p.m. A support group for those who have experienced abortion. Contact Kym at kyeichner@irvingbible.org. Griefshare Begins January 10 A support group for those who have lost a loved one. Contact Sharon at sharrington@verizon.net. Caregivers of Aging Parents (CAP) A support group for those caring for an aging relative or friend. Meets the first Saturday of every month. Visit irvingbible.org/support-groups to register. Grace for the Wounded A small group for those dealing with emotional wounds from the past. Contact Bernadette at (678) 860-4575 or txsojourner@att.net. Stephen Ministry Stephen ministers provide a listening ear and a caring presence for IBCers going through emotionally difficult times such as loss of a job, illness or divorce. Contact stephenministry@irvingbible.org. In His Grip Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. A support group for parents of children with special needs. Contact Shannon at specialneeds@irvingbible.org. Recovery Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. A 12-step support group for those who struggle with hurts, habits or hang-ups. Contact Joe at recovery@ irvingbible.org.

MeeT THe SPeAkeRS

Joe Padilla, Executive Director of MHGA

After graduating from Baylor University, Joe and his wife, Jessica, spent 13 years working with Antioch Ministries International (AMI). They spent the first 10 years in Asia and Africa before coming back to serve with Stateside AMI leadership. While overseas, Joe was also the director of a non-profit organization and later a small business, both focusing on social development projects. In 2009, after years of Jessicas ever-increasing mental health challenges, Joe stepped aside from his role at AMI to care for his wife and family. Through the support of AMI and many others, Joe researched and implemented a holistic recovery process for his wife. Jessica made remarkable improvement and now has a full and thriving life. Through this experience and success, Joe discovered a unique opportunity to assist others in need. Joe and Matt Stanford founded Mental Health Grace Alliance (MHGA) to provide quality assistance, advocacy and support for those affected by mental disorders. Currently, Joe is the executive director of MHGA, overseeing the development of MHGA and working with numerous families and individuals with mental disorders.
Matt Stanford, Director & Founder

Matt Stanfords writings in psychology and neuroscience were inspired by the many questions he received from people of faith over the years, as well as by the real-life struggles of friends and acquaintances attempting to work through the difficulties associated with mental illness. Professionally, Matt has worked with a variety of mentally ill and brain-injured individuals, including those suffering with aggression, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, stroke, substance dependence, schizophrenia and traumatic brain injury. Matt is the author of the Focus on the Family recommended resource, Grace for the Afflicted: A Clinical and Biblical Perspective on Mental Illness (Paternoster, 2008). A Fellow of the Association for Psychological Science (APS), his research on the interplay between psychology and issues of faith has been featured in such national publications as USA Today and The New York Times, as well as on many news websites including Fox, MSNBC, Yahoo and US News & World Report. Presently, Matt is professor of psychology, neuroscience and biomedical studies at Baylor University. MHGA is a non-profit organization that provides recovery programs, support groups, training, and collaborative partnerships to impact mental health care. MHGA equips churches to provide adequate support to those affected by mental illness.
Special thanks to mentalhealthgracealliance.org.

Legendary Texan Sam Houston gave the first $5,000 to fund the newly founded Baylor University in 1845.

The last name Padilla is the 427th most frequent in the U.S.

Chatter | 13

THIS MONTH
BIBLE CoMMUNITIES
Groups on Sunday
Theres always something new going on in Bible Communities! Heres a taste of whats happening this month: Bible Communities will not meet on December 30.
Synergy 9 a.m. Middle School Room Couples in their 40s & 50s If you desire to dive into Scripture and deepen your faith, this class is for you. Come join us. The Tree 9 a.m. West D 20s & 30s, Married and Young Families Join us as we begin a new series, What God Intends for a Life Well Lived While Living in a Fallen World by Tommy Nelson. Journey 10:45 a.m. Middle School Room All Welcome We will be looking at The Normal Christian Life: A Walk Through Romans 68 in January and February. on Track 10:45 West C Single Parents Join us as Bob Robinson returns to teach for the whole month of January. Renew 10:45 a.m. Training Center Diverse, All Ages & Stages Join us for the Focus on the Family DVD series, In The Dust of the Rabbi. Thrive 10:45 a.m. West D Singles in their 30s & 40s Join us for teachings on faith by Phil Pringle and Lee Strobel.

Gathering. Register with Sherri at ssharp@irvingbible.org. See ad, opposite page.

Propel January 20, 10:45 a.m. West C See article, pg. 9. Baptism Service Sunday, January 27 Registration runs January 219 at irvingbible.org/baptism.

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 confidential and all are welcome. Grace for the Wounded Thursdays, 6:308:30 p.m. A confidential small group ministry that explores the wounds we have received and the healing journey Gods prepared for us. Female group currently offered. Starting January 17. Contact graceforthewounded@irvingbible.org to register. NAMI Family-to-Family Class Mondays, 6:309:30 p.m. West D A 12-week course designed for families and caregivers of those with serious mental illness. Begins February 4. Contact Debra at eumoore@yahoo.com. Shelter from the Storm A confidential small group that meets for 16 weeks focused on finding hope and healing from sexual abuse. We offer groups for both teens and adults. Contact Michelle at shelterfromthestormibc@gmail. com or (214) 7250898. Mental Health Grace Alliance Every other Monday, 6:30 p.m. West A and C Family Grace Group is for family members, friends, and caregivers who support individuals with serious mental disorders. Begins January 21. Contact Buzz Moody at myrabuzz@ gmail.com.

KidZone is available, but you must register your child.

MEN

Community and Resources

Big Man Party February 89 See ad, pg. 16. First Watch Fridays, 6:22 a.m. The Commons Begins January 4, see ad, pg. 17. First Watch xtra Meets Wednesdays at 6:30 a.m. in the Training Center.

Mandatory Classes: Childrens Class: Sunday, January 20, 5 p.m. in the Training Center (adjacent to the Tubes in Town Square). A parent is required to attend with his or her child. A childrens makeup class will be held on January 23, at 4 p.m. Middle School/High School Class: Please contact Mary Ann at (972) 5604617 by January 20 to schedule a meeting with the Middle or High School pastor. Adults' Class: Sunday, January 20 at 9 a.m. in West C. A makeup class for adults will be held on Wednesday, January 23 at 6:30 p.m. in AZ16. Contact Donna OReilly at (972) 560-4600.
Baby Dedications February 10 Registration runs January 18February 3 at irvingbible.org/babydedication. Space is limited, so if you have a preference of service times, please register early. Photos of children being dedicated should be sent no later than February 1 to Donna at doreilly@irvingbible.org. Hard copies are also acceptable.

Visit irvingbible.org/men for more info.

MISSIoNS

Local and Global

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.

PARENTING

Events and Resources

Shop Talk Sunday, January 27, 6:45 p.m. The Alcove Rhett Smith, a licensed marriage and family therapist, will be discussing Managing Anxiety in the Family System: Strategies for Changing Our Relationship Dance. This event is free, but please register for the event and for KidZone at irvingbible.org/parenting.

Please visit page 20 for more Sunday Bible Communities.

New Parent Orientation: February 3 at 9 a.m. in the Senior High Room. Orientation is not mandatory, but strongly encouraged. We will explore what it means to dedicate your child and answer questions about parenting issues and our childrens ministry at IBC.
Alpha Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. Alpha is an opportunity to explore the core of Christianity in an open, low pressure setting. Contact alpha@irvingbible.org.

The Living Grace Group is for those who have mental illness. Begins January 21. Contact Melissa Clark at melisser34@yahoo.com.
Mental Health Grace Alliance Conference January 19 See article, pg. 13. Stephen Ministry at IBC Stephen Ministers provide a listening 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.

CHILDREN

Infants Through 5th Grade

MyZone Wednesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. Zone/Zone Jr. A mid-week event for kids thats great for bringing friends. K-5 grade. Starts back January 9. Contact Beth at bhorn@irvingbible.org. Zone 6:30 Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. A weekly Bible study for kids K-5th grade. Starts back January 8. Contact Beth at bhorn@irvingbible.org.

SENIoRS

For Folks Ages 55+

Dinner and a Show Tuesday, January 29 6 p.m.: Dinner at Spring Creek BBQ at 183 and Beltline. 7:30 p.m.: Entertainment Series of Irving presents, The Abrams Brothers. Call the box office at (972) 253-1383 for tickets. Dinner and a Show Thursday, January 31 6 p.m.: Dinner at El Fenix on 183, south of Irving Mall.

HoPE & HEALING

Community Care
GriefShare Thursdays, 6:30830 p.m. West C A caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of lifes most difficult experiences. Begins January 10. KidZone is available with prior registration. To register, contact Sharon at shararrington@verizon.net. Abortion Recovery Mondays, 6:30 p.m. West A Beginning January 28. Contact Kym at kyeichner@irvingbible.org.

MARRIAGE

Growing Together
Marriage at IBC Sundays, 6:45 p.m. West C A small group-based marriage series designed to help couples reconnect in the context of community. Our theme for the spring will be Sunday Night Fight Night, looking at 8 common points of conflict. Starts January 6. Visit marriage.irvingbible.org to register.

FAITH AND BELIEF

Events and Resources
Newcomer Gathering January 10, 6:30 p.m. The Zone Please join us for our Newcomer

8 p.m.: ICT Mainstage Dupree Theatre presents, The Cover of Life. Call the box office at (972) 2522787 for tickets.

Chatter | 14

Potluck Lunch and Fellowship January 20 Immediately following the second morning service in the Commons Annex adjoining the Haven. Bring a dish if you can.

STUDENTS

Middle/High School and College

Middle School Sundays MERGE AM The Alcove, 10:45 a.m.12:05 p.m.

YoUNG ADULTS
20s and Early 30s
The Gathering Thursdays, 7 p.m. The Alcove Join us as we kick-off The Gathering on January 17 with #Trending. We will be looking at the lives of four of the hottest cultural icons trending in our world today. What message is your life reflecting? Weekly Groups Many young adults (marrieds, singles and mixed) meet in smaller groups during the week and Sunday evenings to connect in community and grow in Christ. If you are interested in learning more, contact youngadults@irvingbible.org. Sunday Mornings at the Mo Sundays, 10 a.m. The Mosiac Caf Join us for fellowship before the 10:45 a.m. service.

Please contact bgroezinger@ verizon.net.

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 Anna Heil at aheil@ irvingbible.org.

Life Groups the Commons, 6:458 p.m.

Visit 2435kinwest.org.

SINGLE PARENTS

Community and Resources

Sit with us on Sunday! Several single-parent families enjoy worshiping together in the 9 a.m. service. Come and join us in the lowest right-hand section, Rows 5 & 6, facing the stage.

Middle School Wednesdays The W Student Ministry area, 6:308 p.m.

High School Sundays Life Groups Student Ministry area, 6:458 p.m.

MISCELLANEoUS
A Little Bit of Everything
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. NICHE (North Irving Christian Home Educators) Monday, January 14, 79 p.m. The Alcove Join us as homeschool mom, Adrienne Freas presents Ready, Set, Clean! Reminder, no childcare is available. Contact board@texasniche. com or visit www.texasniche.com. Lost and Found Have you lost something at IBC? Contact Samara at samara.russ@ gmail.com during the week or ask at the Information Desk on Sunday. New Arrivals Congratulations to the following families on the birth of their children:

High School Wednesdays SWAG (Students Worship and Gathering) The Alcove, 7:158:30 p.m. Starts back January 9. Please note new time. Register today for the High School Winter retreat Intermission February 13, at irvingbible.org/students.
Save the Date: Teen Recovery Kicks off February 4 in Zone Jr. See irvingbible.org/students for more info. IBC College Ministry Sundays at 6:458 p.m. The Alcove. Contact mconnor@irvingbible.org.

SERMoN-BASED SMALL GRoUPS

Community and Resources

Groups are currently in session. Contact Ryan at rsanders@irvingbible.org.

2435 KINWEST

Wednesday Nights at IBC

vox Humana Choir Wednesdays, 6:308:10 p.m. IBC Worship Center The choral community of IBC is always looking for new singers, beginner or pro. Everyone is welcome and you can join at any time! No auditions necessary. Contact Crystal at celwell@irvingbible.org. ESL: English as a Second Language Wednesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. AZ14 & 15 Do you want to learn English? Improve your English? Come practice all four skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. For more info, contact Corey at 2435esl@irvingbible.org. FREE Citizenship Class Wednesdays, 6:308 p.m. IBC For those at least 18 years old who have been issued a Permanent Resident Card. Well guide you through the N-400 paperwork and prepare you for the main components of the new citizenship test. Contact Michael at 2435citizenship@irvingbible.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Community and Resources

In His Image Bible Study Wed., 6:307:45 p.m. AZ15 A small group for adults (18+) with special needs. Special Needs Support Group Wednesday nights, 6:307:45 p.m. The Conference Room Contact Lori at lorikuy@gmail.com. Respite Care Every fourth Saturday For families that have children 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.

WoMEN

Community and Resources

Chick Lit January 8, 7 p.m. West D Join us for a night discussing Shes Got Issues by Nicole Unice, the speaker for this years Oasis Women's Retreat. Spring Womens Bible Study Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. or 6:30 p.m. See article, pg. 5.

Christopher and Heather Walsh and their son Bennett Christopher, born September 25, at 6 lbs, 10 oz, and 19 inches. Ben and Tana Haile and their daughter June Emmalyn, born October 15 at 5 lbs, 14 oz, and 20 inches. Kevin and Mindy Langston and their son Kaden Benjamin, born November 11 at 7 lbs, 1 oz, and 19.5 inches.

Visit irvingbible.org/women.

Contact specialneeds@irvingbible.org.

NewComer gathering
If you are new to IBC, we invite you to attend the Newcomer Gathering, a quarterly meeting designed to help you learn more about who we are, what we believe, and how to get plugged in. Meet Pastor Andy and other church leadership, ask questions, and get to know other newcomers in a relaxed, informal environment.

When: January 10 Time: 6:30 p.m. location: Zone Jr. A light dinner will be served. Register: Visit irvingbible.org/ newcomergathering Questions? Contact Sherri Sharp at ssharp@irvingbible.org or (972) 5604614. Chatter | 15

ntered opic: Ce T
IBC
p.m. Check-in: 5 8-9, 2013 | , Westlake, TX February iott Solana Where: Marr Party where 13 Big Man as a 20 live IBC for the Join Men at re what it looks like to lo we will exp red man. el-cente gosp om. r double ro room/$99 fo for single Cost: $149 . le.org/men r: irvingbib Registe bible.org. Questions? at kyeichner@irving m Contact Ky

n Party BIG Ma

What could the people of god do for the Kingdom if they were completely debt-free? What could YOU do?

financial Peace univerSity (FPU) is a 9-week program that empowers you to make the right money decisions and experience a total money makeover. Led by Dave Ramsey, FPU takes the head knowledge from his books and radio show and turns it into real action. The course has been a life-changing experience for over 350,000 families already. FPU is for everyone from the financially secure to the financially distressed.

Schedule: Class begins January 9, 6:308 p.m. in West D coSt: $90 regiStration: register at irvingbible.org/fpu. information: contact kyeichner@irvingbible.org with questions. KidZone is available by registration.

you are cordially invited to

aRty big Man p

sChedule
satuRday 7:30 a.m. Breakfast: ssions: Breakout se 10:10 a.m. 9 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Close-out:

A Valentines Dinner Dance

for single-parent families

FRiday p.m. Check-in: 5 0 p.m. Dinner: 6:3 p.m. eaker: 7:30 . Keynote Sp ssic: 9 p.m e Cla Testosteron midnight Bratwurst:

Saturday, February 2 69 pm in The Commons

dinner and dance horse and carriage rides limo rides family photos more $20 per family (you may pay online or at the door)

Parenting bReakouts approach to el-Centered to Marriage Gosp d approach pel-Centere to Career Gos d approach r pel-Centere Gos ch to Praye red approa k ospel-Cente to Legacy G tions at Wor ach al Conversa tered appro to Intention Gospel-Cen ach tered appro Gospel-Cen ard Jim Woodw speakeRs Nat Pugh nt McKinney Bre y nkin Larry Parsle Dwight Ma d Grant Davi

rsvp at irvingbible.org/singleparents. you may also register for kidzone at this site if needed. Questions? Email Jennifer at jerlenbusch@irvingbible.org.

Zone 6:30 A Bible Study for kids.

Zone 6:30 is a great way for your K5th grade child to grow deeper in their spiritual walk. This small-group Bible study will meet your child right where they are while providing a fun environment for growing in Christ and making new friends.
Who: K5th Grade When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Tuesday Where: The Zone Cost: $25 per child (covers the study guide, T-shirt, and various activities throughout the year) Registration: visit zone630.irvingbible.org. For more info, contact Beth at bhorn@irvingbible.org.

MyZone is a place where friends introduce Jesus to others through fun activities, great friendships and in-depth conversations.
Who: Grades K5th Where: K2nd graders: Zone Jr. 3rd5th graders: the Zone When: Begins January 9 Wednesday nights, 6:308:30 p.m. Cost: MyZone is a free event. No registration required.

Interested in Making a Difference? Zone 6:30 is now recruiting small group leaders. For more info, contact Beth Horn at bhorn@irvingbible.org.

Question? Contact Beth at bhorn@irvingbible.org.

Give careful thought to your ways!

FiRst WatCh: Haggai | Fridays at 6:22 a.m.
For the month of January, First Watch will be exploring Haggai, an Old Testament prophet who wrote 500 years before Christ. This little book finds Gods people faced with conflicting priorities as they live in relative prosperity while Gods house lies in ruins. Over and over again the prophet admonishes, Give careful thought to your ways! Take time with other Men at IBC to give careful thought to what it means to follow Christ while surrounded with the trappings of affluence. Cost is FREE and NO registration required. Contact Kym at kyeichner@irvingbible.org with questions.

SUNDAY SCHEDULE
First Worship Service: 9 a.m.
Childrens Classes (all ages) Synergy (40s & 50s), Middle School Room The Tree (young marrieds and families), West D

HoW Do I GIvE?
My Time, Talents & Skills
IBC Safety Team Did you know IBC has a safety team of trained medical personnel and law enforcement? We do! If you have a background in one of these areas and are looking for a place to serve, visit the Information Center on Sunday or contact Kelly at khaney@irvingbible.org. Visitor Follow-Up Team (Rex Greenstreet Ministry) We are looking for a volunteer to make calls to visitors each week at IBC. Training and coaching will be provided. For more info, contact ssharp@irvingbible.org. Respite Care Volunteers By giving a few hours of your time to do crafts, play games, and spend time with special needs children, you give parents a few hours for themselves. Every fourth Saturday evening. Contact Shannon at specialneeds@ irvingbible.org. Kiosk and Welcome Center Volunteers Childrens Ministry is looking for volunteers to welcome and check in families at IBC events. Complete the adult volunteer application and the background check at irvingbible.org/serving/volunteer-application. Contact Kurtlyn at kferguson@irvingbible.org. Wednesday Nights Special Needs Volunteers Help care for special needs children while their parents attend a support group. Contact Shannon at specialneeds@irvingbible.org. Mentor Kids in Single-Parent Families Men mentor a boy, and women mentor a girl from a single-parent family. All it takes is a little time and a big heart. Contact Marsha at mtribbett@irvingible.org. Kids Night Out Volunteer Kids Night Out, a ministry for single parent families, meets the third Saturday of each month from 6-9 p.m. Volunteers are needed to give parents an evening to themselves. Contact Jennifer at jerlenbusch@irvingbible.org.

Second Worship Service: 10:45 a.m.

Childrens Classes (all ages) Crossroads (mid 20s-30s couples), High School Room On Track (single parents), West C Journey (all welcome), Middle School Room Merge A.M. (middle school), Alcove Renew (multi-generational), Training Center Thrive (30s & 40s singles), West D

My Resources
Breakfast Cereal for Brighter Tommorrows The womens shelter in Irving has an ongoing need for cereal to feed their women and children. Drop your boxes in the large marked box in the donation area at IBC. Contact Marjorie at brightertomorrows@irvingbible.org. Laundry Soap and Dryer Sheets Laundry Love is collecting laundry soap and dryer sheets for their monthly events. 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. Cars for Missionary Families Do you have an extra car to loan a missionary family on furlough? Contact Missions at aheil@irvingbible.org. Online Giving Option If you would find it more convenient to donate to the ministries of Irving Bible Church online, visit give.irvingbible.org.

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

Each Sunday in the Town Square at 6 p.m. Cost is $3/meal or $10 max./family. 1/6 1/13 1/20 1/27 New Years pizza and Auld Lang Syne Breadsticks Beef fajitas, chips and salsa All American burgers and brauts Giant spuds and all the fixings

If youd like to serve on a Sunday night meal team, contact Pat at sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org.

Interested in learning more about IBCs budget for 2013 or other financial nuts and bolts? Visit irvingbible.org/budget beginning in February.

WEDNESDAY MIDWEEK MEALS

Each Wednesday night from 56:20 p.m. in The Commons. Cost is $3/meal or $10 max./family. 1/9 Chopped BBQ beef sandwiches, coleslaw, baked beans, pickles, chips, salad and dessert. Hosted by Marlene Brittons team. Honey baked ham, scalloped potatoes, mixed veggies, rolls and dessert. Hosted by Pat Downeys team. Mexican meal with tacos, enchiladas, chips/salsa and fresh baked cookies. Hosted by Barbara Wittes team. Baked chicken legs, tater tots, baked beans and brownies. Hosted by Bob Downeys team.

New to IBC?
Have questions? Were here to help.

Were so glad youre here. Sometimes its hard to know where to begin, but we want to make the process of connecting and feeling at home as easy as possible. Here are some ways to start. The Information Center is a great place to get your questions answered, find help and encouragement for your personal journey, or just have a cup of coffee 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 figure out what IBC is all about or how you fit into the larger picture? Want free breakfast every Sunday for four weeks? Propel is designed to help you figure 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. (See article in this issue, pg. 9) 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.

1/16

Information Center
irvingbible.org/connect

1/23

1/30

Newcomer Gathering
Learn more about IBC and meet others like you.
irvingbible.org/connect

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Chatter | 18

fanilessly, root your eschatological ethics in the good-time hieroglyphs of everyones favorite Mesoamericans, the Mayans. The Mayan Long Count calendar stretches along a 5,125-year cycle (the Short Count occurs every third Thursday from 6 a.m. until Flo runs out of pancake batter), and the most recent cycle ended on December 21, 2012. At which time John Cusack boarded a computergenerated 747 and flew to Greendale in the state of Northern California where he airlifted out the paperboy who wanted his two dollars and chucked him into the gaping maw of Booger, thereby satisfying Moe B. Us, the Mayan God of Tangents, and ending the end of the world that everyone was nattering about way back on December 20. So if youre reading this, congrats. John was either much more successful than his Edgar Allan Poe film and the end of the world didnt actually happen, the entire thing was as valid as rumors of Wang Chung breaking up, or youre a sentient cockroach with impeccable literary tastes. Ive been holed up in my Prepper Shelter 9000 ($14,995 installed from Bass Pro) since August, so I have no idea whats going on. Which should surprise no one. In the void of the space-time continuum that is as close to reality as I dare brush, I must confess to finding this end-of-the-world hysteria much less entertaining than Def Leppards seminal 1987 album Hysteria. Granted, it would be hard for even the Antichrist himself (a re-animated Charles Nelson Reilly, sorry to spill the beans) to compete with Pour Some Sugar on Me, even if the Mayans were known to make their own chocolate. It just seems, to quote my three-yearold son Simon, so silly. But I suppose its indicative of a world that has rejected the true meaning of life while claiming to search for that very thing.

The Far Side of the Apocalypse

If youre like me, you no doubt have severe issues with your coiffure when the humidity levels hit anything beyond arid. You also, also Gwen Ste-

Consider the idea that people, including some that arent Hollywood producers, believe the world might end because a calendar created over a millennium ago is coming to an end. Did anyone ever consider that the ancient Mayans didnt continue their calendar because, wait for it, they figured 1,500 years worth of dates was good enough to fill their progenys Franklin Planners? (They couldnt see into the future well enough to predict iCal. Go figure.) To use similar logic, the world should have ended at midnight, December 31, 1995, when my The Far Side Page-a-Day calendar exhausted its bovine-based hilarity. Obviously, some people really do attend the Midvale School for the Gifted. As the Bible clearly states somewhere (you can Google it along with the 27 other bizarre references Ive made), no one knows the time or place of Christs return. And if Christ hasnt returned, the world isnt going to end. (At least not in general. Your particular world may end when Jenni finds out what you did to Ronnie, but only if you happen to go by the name Snooki.) The Bible does, of course, list numerous signs and events that must be fulfilled before Jesus returns with the shout of the Archangel Im hoping hell yell Word up! to lay the smack down upon the heathens. I mean, rapture the redeemed. So until you start hearing a lot about wars or even rumors of Wang Chung splitting up; see millions of Jews return to the Promised Land; witness the reunification of the Roman Empire into some sort of European community; continuously give to charity to help the victims of earthquakes, famines and other natural disasters; or wonder if your dogs microchip would also work on the kids, dont worry. Jesus wont be coming like a thief in the night anytime soon. Now if youll excuse me, I have a Midvale School Board meeting to attend. Jason Fox wishes to remind any sentient cockroaches that he never once purchased or used D-CON despite the pleadings of Muhammad Ali.
Jason is a writer who used to live in Dallas, but now resides in Omaha because he loves corn and a steady paycheck.

The name Wang Chung is Chinese for yellow bell.

The slogan from the John Cusak movie 2012 was We Were Warned. By movie critics.

The Far Side creator Gary Larson is married to an anthropologist.

Chatter | 19

Chatter looking quite underdressed with Judy Rudebusch, Amber Dollar and teachers from the Colegio Nueva Vida in Santa Maria de Jess, Sacatepquez, Guatemala.

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.