OCTOBER 08, 2024 VOL.5 NO.39
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE BAPTIZED?
If you are interested in being baptized, please click the above icon and let Pastor Allan know. Our next celebration is slated for Sabbath, October 19th. Excited for you to join the festivities.
WANTED: ALL COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY AND TRADE SCHOOL STUDENTS
We want to connect with you, please click the above icon and register your contact info with @ygchurch.
THE PLANS HE HAS FOR ME // OCT 9, 7:00PM CT // AYP VIRTUAL GROUP
Are you looking for a space to explore, contemplate, and discuss your faith as a Seventh-Day Adventist? Join AYP’s Come, Let Us Reason group as we delve into the collective work of editor, Becky St. Clair, and a group of Adventist young professionals in the book, “The Plans He Has For Me.“ At Come, Let Us Reason, we dive into one chapter per week, providing ample time for reflection and thoughtful conversations. Whether you’re an avid reader or someone passionate about sharing your perspectives, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of upcoming discussions. Click the above icon to sign up for our next gathering below and join us for a discussion on “The Plans He Has For Me” as we explore, learn, and grow as a community of AYPers. Together, we can find inspiration for our lives and suggest exciting topics for future discussions.
OUTDOOR CHURCH // OCTOBER 12TH, 10:15AM // THE COMMON
Join us for Outdoor Church October 12th, held at the Common, just outside of the Fellowship Hall. Sabbath School starts at 10:15am following with worship at 11:30am. Bring your lawn chair, blankets, and picnic food to share following the service. We can't wait to see you and worship together!
*Note there will be no separate YG Church service that day as we enjoy and all-church worship service outdoors.
VOLUNTEER FOR SHINDIG
Would love to see you involved with Shindig coming soon. Click the above form to sign up.
COMING EVENTS
VOLUNTEER FOR CHOSEN // OCT 19 // ARLINGTON SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
It’s never been a better time to reach out and connect with the people around you — even the ones you don’t know yet. Share God’s blessings and love through an exciting opportunity with @worldvisionusa. You won’t want to miss what’s planned for service on October 19.
For Volunteering SIGN UP by scanning the QR code or HERE!
PYG CHAT GROUP // RESUMES OCT 19, 11:30AM // ROOM 5
Right after Younger Generation Church [Post YG], join us in Room 5 for conversations around the sermon and related issues to community and church life. Enjoy community and open discussion. All are welcome.
YOUNG WOMEN'S LIFEGROUP RESUMES OCT 19, 12:00PM // ROOM 7
Young women (ages 18-35) are invited to enjoy fellowship, prayer, and snacks. Resuming October 19, we will have an interactive group discussion (with a video and lesson study) over the Gospel of John. Click the above icon to contact Taye for more details.
Click the above icon to volunteer for this annual church family highlight!
SPORTS EQUIPMENT DRIVE // OCT 20 // 3-5PM
Do you have any lightly used sports equipment (Example: Soccer Balls, Basketballs, Gloves, Shin Guards, Footballs, Tennis Racquets) that you would like to give away? Consider donating it to underprivileged children in need. Drop off your donation on Sunday, October 20 from 3 - 5 pm! This event is for kids by kids and is being organized by BAA Highschool Senior, Jose Piantini. Thank you for your kind donation in advance!
BURTON ADVENTIST ACADEMY FALL FAIR // OCT 27, 1:00-4:00PM // BAA CAMPUS
Bring the family, friends and neighbors for this annual tradition! Tons of food, games, activities and vendors!
Click the above icon to email Jasmin for more information.
Contact Pastor Allan if you are interested in attending.
THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE // THROUGH NOV 09
Make the holidays bright for a family in need! Pick up the following items and place them in the REVIVE bins located in the church foyer on Sabbath or during church office hours! All donations must be in by November 9, as these items will be distributed during REVIVE’S Thanksgiving Food Pantry! We estimate that we will serve over 400 families so every donation matters! Thank you in advance for partnering with REVIVE to share a bit of joy this season!
Click HERE for a complete Thanksgiving shopping list.
SAVE THE DATE: FOOT WASHING & COMMUNION // NOV 9, 10:15AM CT // YOUNGER GENERATION CHURCH
All Christ-followers are invited and welcome to our open communion service as we remember the redeeming sacrifice of our Lord and Savior.
Click the above icon to register.
FAITH & FAMILY NIGHTS: MAVERICKS VS. GRIZZLIES // DEC 3, 7:30PM, $20 // AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER
Join YG for a fun evening of NBA Basketball. To reserve a discounted $20 ticket click the icon above, the QR code, or go to https://tiny.one/MavsGame
For more information or should you want to help organize these fun outings, contact Gary Livingston.
FAITH & FAMILY NIGHTS: MAVERICKS VS. KINGS // FEB 10 // SAVE THE DATE
More details to come. If you want to help lead in these type of outings contact Gary Livingston.
PURSUE GOD
BETTER TOGETHER: TOGETHER ON MISSION // OCT 05, 10:15AM CT // YOUNGER GENERATION CHURCH
Glorious Day, Raise A Hallelujah, Reckless Love, Great Are You Lord #WorshipSet #Oct5 10:15AM CT https://tinyurl.com/YGlivestream #ygchurch #BetterTogether #CreatedForCommunity
19 And so you are no longer called outcasts and wanderers but citizens with God’s people, members of God’s holy family, and residents of His household. 20 You are being built on a solid foundation: the message of the prophets and the voices of God’s chosen emissaries with Jesus, the Anointed Himself, the precious cornerstone. 21 The building is joined together stone by stone—all of us chosen and sealed in Him, rising up to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In Him you are being built together, creating a sacred dwelling place among you where God can live in the Spirit. —Ephesians 2:19-22 [Voice]
We were created for community. Join Younger Generation Church in their series, "Better Together: Built For Community," Saturdays, 10:15AM Central. We would love to see you in person at Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, 4409 Pleasantview Drive, Arlington, TX 76017-1427.
AYP DEVOTIONAL: EMBRACING COMMUNITY
Finding Joy and Purpose in Shared Faith
There’s a profound truth in the saying, “happiness is not real unless it is shared.” This principle touches on something deeply ingrained in our human experience: the need for connection. Whether we’re navigating life’s highs or lows, the joy of sharing those moments with others amplifies their impact and significance. This sentiment is not only reflected in our everyday interactions but is also deeply rooted in our spiritual journey.
In Genesis 1:26, we read, “Let Us make man in our image, after our likeness.” This passage highlights a divine plurality within God’s nature. Just as God exists in a perfect relationship of unity and diversity, we, created in His image, are also designed to thrive in communal settings. This inherent need for connection is not just a social preference but a reflection of our very nature as beings made in the image of a relational God.
The Value of Community in Faith
When we consider our involvement in a faith community, it’s worth reflecting on the benefits it offers. A faith community provides more than just a place to worship; it creates a network of support, encouragement, and shared values. Being part of a church or faith group can offer a deep sense of belonging and purpose.
For many, being an active participant in a faith community is more than a ritual; it’s a source of profound joy and fulfillment. Jesus spoke about the power of community when He said, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20). This promise underscores the special presence of Christ when believers come together in His name.
Aligning with Christ’s Call for Unity
Christ’s call for unity is central to our understanding of community in the faith. In John 17:21, Jesus prayed that “all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” This call for unity is not just about being in the same physical space but about sharing a common vision, purpose, and commitment to Christ.
In various Christian traditions, including the Seventh-day Adventist Church, there is a focus on core principles such as the Sabbath and holistic living. These practices reflect a commitment to living out one’s faith in a way that aligns with Biblical teachings. This alignment helps believers find a sense of purpose and connection within their faith community.
Navigating Denominational Affinity
In a world with numerous Christian denominations, it’s natural to question the role and value of being part of a specific faith community. Yet, this question invites us to explore what truly makes a faith community meaningful. For many, the choice to remain engaged with a particular church or faith group can be seen as a commitment to a community that nurtures their spiritual growth and aligns with their values.
For example, a church that emphasizes holistic living, education, and social justice reflects a comprehensive approach to faith. This approach can provide a rich context for personal and collective growth, as well as opportunities for service and outreach that align with the teachings of Christ.
Practical Ways to Engage and Benefit
Being an active participant in a faith community offers practical benefits that can enhance one’s spiritual and personal life. Here are a few ways to engage meaningfully:
Join Small Groups: Small groups within the church provide intimate settings for deeper connections and personal growth. They offer opportunities for prayer, study, and mutual support.
Volunteer: Engaging in volunteer work through the church allows you to put your faith into action. Whether it’s serving the community or participating in church events, volunteering helps build a sense of purpose and connection.
Attend Services Regularly: Regular attendance at church services helps reinforce your faith and provides consistent spiritual nourishment. It also strengthens your ties to the community.
Build Relationships: Take the time to get to know others in the church. Building genuine relationships can create a support network that helps you navigate life’s challenges.
Balancing Faith and Personal Growth
It’s important to remember that being part of a faith community doesn’t mean you have to have all the answers or conform perfectly to every aspect of its teachings. Instead, it’s about growing together, supporting one another, and pursuing a shared journey of faith.
As children of God, embracing a faith community can offer significant benefits in terms of connection, support, and spiritual growth. As we reflect on Christ’s call for unity and the role of community in our lives, may we find joy in our shared experiences and purpose in our collective journey of faith.
--Tim Kosaka, AYP President & Kayla Goodman, AYP Chaplain
BETTER TOGETHER: TOGETHER WITH THE CHURCH // SEP 28, 10:15AM CT // YOUNGER GENERATION CHURCH
Made For More, Egypt, Holy Spirit, Good Plans #WorshipSet #Sep28 10:15AM CT https://tinyurl.com/YGlivestream #ygchurch #BetterTogether #CreatedForCommunity
19 And so you are no longer called outcasts and wanderers but citizens with God’s people, members of God’s holy family, and residents of His household. 20 You are being built on a solid foundation: the message of the prophets and the voices of God’s chosen emissaries with Jesus, the Anointed Himself, the precious cornerstone. 21 The building is joined together stone by stone—all of us chosen and sealed in Him, rising up to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In Him you are being built together, creating a sacred dwelling place among you where God can live in the Spirit. —Ephesians 2:19-22 [Voice]
We were created for community. Join Younger Generation Church in their new series, "Better Together: Built For Community," Saturdays, 10:15AM Central. We would love to see you in person at Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, 4409 Pleasantview Drive, Arlington, TX 76017-1427.
YG SPEAKER: PASTOR APRIL CHISHOLM SNYDER, MPH
April Chisholm Snyder Is the Pastor for Community Engagement at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church. She’s a seminary student and a recent Master of Public Health graduate from Andrews University. Her and her husband Blake both attended Arlington Adventist Church as children, and are passionate about ministry and growing deeper in their relationship with Christ.
BETTER TOGETHER: INTERNATIONAL DAY 2024
Believe For It, So Will I, Worthy, How Great is Our God/How Great Thou Art #WorshipSet #Sep21 10:15AM CT https://tinyurl.com/YGlivestream #ygchurch #BetterTogether #CreatedForCommunity #TheseAreThey #InternationalDay2024
19 And so you are no longer called outcasts and wanderers but citizens with God’s people, members of God’s holy family, and residents of His household. 20 You are being built on a solid foundation: the message of the prophets and the voices of God’s chosen emissaries with Jesus, the Anointed Himself, the precious cornerstone. 21 The building is joined together stone by stone—all of us chosen and sealed in Him, rising up to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In Him you are being built together, creating a sacred dwelling place among you where God can live in the Spirit. —Ephesians 2:19-22 [Voice]
We were created for community. Join Younger Generation Church in their new series, "Better Together: Built For Community," Saturdays, 10:15AM Central. We would love to see you in person at Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, 4409 Pleasantview Drive, Arlington, TX 76017-1427.
DEAR CHURCH: VOICES OF ADVENTIST YOUNG ADULTS
Every day, young adults are deciding whether or not to leave the Church. Rather than simply asking, "Why?" we wanted to ask another question: "Can you tell us your story?" Dear Church is a ten-part series that narratively tells the stories of young adults in the Seventh-day Adventist community. Each episode concludes with the guest sharing a personal letter they’ve written to the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
"If you could say anything to the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, what would you say?" This is the question Pastor Aren Rennacker had for young adults in the Seventh-day Adventist community. The answers he began to receive led him to a deeper journey than he expected.
In this first episode of ten, listen as Pastor Aren speaks with various young adults, as well as one of the leading voices for young adult involvement in the Adventist Church. Click the above icon or here to listen to episode one on Spotify.
BETTER TOGETHER: TOGETHER WITH CHRIST // SEP 14, 10:15AM CT // YOUNGER GENERATION CHURCH
Take You At Your Word, Firm Foundation, Trust In God #WorshipSet #Sep14 10:15AM CT https://tinyurl.com/YGlivestream #ygchurch #BetterTogether #CreatedForCommunity
19 And so you are no longer called outcasts and wanderers but citizens with God’s people, members of God’s holy family, and residents of His household. 20 You are being built on a solid foundation: the message of the prophets and the voices of God’s chosen emissaries with Jesus, the Anointed Himself, the precious cornerstone. 21 The building is joined together stone by stone—all of us chosen and sealed in Him, rising up to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In Him you are being built together, creating a sacred dwelling place among you where God can live in the Spirit. —Ephesians 2:19-22 [Voice]
We were created for community. Join Younger Generation Church in their new series, "Better Together: Built For Community," Saturdays, 10:15AM Central. We would love to see you in person at Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, 4409 Pleasantview Drive, Arlington, TX 76017-1427.
ADVENT NEXT: GROWING YOUNG NEXT GENERATION CHURCH
[Premiered April 30, 2020] Advent Next is a theological podcast curated for curious faith discussions. Our guest is Dr. A. Allan Martin, the teaching pastor at Younger Generation Church. In our current era of quarantine and isolation, I’m sure the question on many minds is how will the church create community in the days ahead? One thing I’m sure we’ve learned, by being deprived of it, is that community IS deeply important. Community is vitally connected to what it means to be human. So this episdoe, we have Dr. Martin, a former professor at Andrews University and research facilitator for one of Barna Group’s studies called Adventist Millennial Research exploring what are the key components for growing vibrant communities of faith.
BETTER TOGETHER: BELONG TOGETHER // SEP 7, 10:15AM CT // YOUNGER GENERATION CHURCH
The Father's House, Who You Say I Am, Good Grace, Build My Life #WorshipSet #Sep7 10:15AM CT https://tinyurl.com/YGlivestream #ygchurch #BetterTogether #CreatedForCommunity
19 And so you are no longer called outcasts and wanderers but citizens with God’s people, members of God’s holy family, and residents of His household. 20 You are being built on a solid foundation: the message of the prophets and the voices of God’s chosen emissaries with Jesus, the Anointed Himself, the precious cornerstone. 21 The building is joined together stone by stone—all of us chosen and sealed in Him, rising up to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In Him you are being built together, creating a sacred dwelling place among you where God can live in the Spirit. —Ephesians 2:19-22 [Voice]
We were created for community. Join Younger Generation Church in their new series, "Better Together: Built For Community," Saturdays, 10:15AM Central. We would love to see you in person at Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, 4409 Pleasantview Drive, Arlington, TX 76017-1427.
YG MEDIA ARCHIVES: THOUSANDS OF SERMONS & SERVICES ON DEMAND
For inspiration and/or discipleship, on your own or with a group, take advantage of this vast collection of worship experiences and sermons from Younger Generation Church. Click the above icon to gain access to the YG Video Vault.
EXPERIENCE COMMUNITY
Text “join” to 817-754-4474 to connect with @ygchurch
ATTENTION YOUNG WOMEN! // BETTER TOGETHER
There's a new exciting program Women's Ministries is doing called Better Together. We want to build connections with ladies of all ages. Ladies, if you want to maybe learn something new, have fun while making better connections with each other, pray for each other, click the icon above, or scan the QR code to learn more and sign up.
GROWING TOGETHER: WARM COMMUNITY
In the Spring of 2020, Pastor Martin presented in Australia as part of the Growing Together initiative being held down under. This presentation gives focus to the Growing Young commitment of Warm Community. Click the above icon or here to watch the presentation on YouTube.
Looking to put some spring in your step and your conversations? When you join an AYP Group, you can connect with other young professionals and have meaningful discussions that are sure to encourage you. Check out AYP.me/Groups to learn more and join a group today!
RIGHTNOW MEDIA VIRTUAL LIBRARY
As a YGer you have access to RightNow Media—the world’s largest streaming library of video Bible study resources. This extensive library has more than 20,000 videos from leaders like Francis Chan, Jennie Allen, Matt Chandler, Dr. Tony Evans, and many more. These Bible study videos can be used as part of a group study or for personal devotions, and many series include free discussion guides and handouts.
RightNow Media has videos for everyone in your family on a variety of topics like marriage, parenting, personal finances, mental health, and more. There’s even a library just for kids with over 2,000 safe, entertaining videos. Click the above icon or click here to gain access to our digital library!
INSPIRE HOPE // SHARE GRACE
REVIVE COMMUNITY CARE: WE ARE HERE TO HELP EACH OTHER
Inspire those around you with the hope of grace by volunteering with Revive Community Care! Participate and refer those in need, revivecommunitycare.com
UNDERSTANDING & PREVENTING YOUTH SUICIDE // SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY
Southwestern Adventist University hosted, Understanding & Preventing Youth Suicide: A Community Discussion, at Wharton Auditorium: Mabee Center.
Click the above icon for the crucial conversation about youth suicide prevention. This informative session was intended to equip parents, educators, and community members with the tools to recognize the warning signs and create a safer environment for our young people.
The panel included four panelists who shared their expertise on recognizing and addressing the warning signs of suicide in young people. Together, we can make a difference.
YOUR GENEROSITY MAKES @YGCHURCH GROW, GLOW, & GO
We invite you to support @ygchurch financially. As you bless YG, our young adults overflow that blessing into our community and into the world. Your tax-deductible donation helps YG grow, glow, and go. Thank you. Click the above icon or here for ways to give.
How does your support overflow into the world? Click here for @ygchurch stories of overflow.
GRATITUDE
ADVENTIST JOURNEY COVER FEATURE: PASTOR HEIDI JACKSON
Congratulations to Pastor Heidi on such a wonderful honor.
Click the above icon for the complete magazine and video interview.
JOURNEY TO 150: ARTIST KAREN JIMENEZ FINDLEY
Congratulations to Karen Findley on a documentary feature on commissioned art for Andrews University.
Click the above icon for the full feature video.
CHOSEN: A LOOK BACK
As we prepare once again to partner with World Vision, click the above icon to reflect on our church's past participation with Chosen.
GENTLE HEROES
So grateful for legacy building members like Kevin Barnes, who faithfully supported YG from the very start and blessed our entire Church with his grace-filled, quiet emulation of Christ Jesus.
THE POWER OF LISTENING
Trust is the foundation of any strong team, and it’s built through consistent actions that show your team you value them. One of the most powerful ways to demonstrate this value is by listening—truly listening—to their ideas, concerns, and insights. At AYP, we believe in a leadership style that mirrors the ministry of Jesus—a leader who listened, engaged, and empowered others to fulfill their potential.
Click the above icon for the full blog feature by Tim Kosaka.
Congratulations Heather!
Younger Generation Church is the vibrant young adult ministry of the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church. YG's mission is to deepen our devotion to Christ Jesus through:
• Pursuing INTIMACY with God
• Experiencing COMMUNITY with each other
• Inspiring those around us with the hope of GRACE