M AY 2 0 11

Chatter
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 Prince William and Kate Middleton just got married, by the way. Just in case you have been living in a deep undersea pod of isolation. Her engagement ring looks very much like the aquamarine ring my grandparents gave me for my 18th birthday, except hers has a sapphire, a sapphire that looks like it may be even just a little bit SMALLER than my aquamarine if you look at it in the right Hyde-Park sun or in the right tabloid. I like to think Kate and I could be BFFs what with our blue gems, our brown hair, and the fact we are female and speak English. All through college, I kept my birthday ring hidden away in my dorm room, or in the desk in my sorority house I shared later with two girls, or in the dresser of the house I had as a senior. I never wore it. I kept it close by, like a secret stash of Twizzlers. Expensive Twizzlers. Friends would ask to see it. I would pull out the box and wait, perhaps for a bell to toll or for a disembodied choral ensemble to sing the Doxology, and then click the lid open. I wear it more these days. And the more I wear it, the more I wish I had been wearing it all along. Even though we are technically in the joyful season of Easter and beyond the contemplation of Lent, it doesnt seem right to box up the beauty of Jesus sacrifice. Isaiah tells us our peace with God our restful state before him and in him as a beloved, forgiven child came at a costly price. Punishment brought peace, nothing less. Are you stashing away the greatest gift you own? Living in worry, caught up in distraction, mired in self-obsession? Have peace. Peace is already yours, in a little black box, sitting in velvet, sparkling, bought and paid for. Take it, own it, wear it. Others will wonder where you got such a rare gem, such an incredible freedom of spirit and quiet settled-ness of mind. And you will say from The Prince of Peace, of course, who is greater than any dude from Wales. Or even that guy with the purple guitar.

a letter from

Photo: flickr user UK_repsome

Editor Julie Rhodes Art Direction, Design & Goodness Josh Wiese, Dennis Cheatham, Lindsey Sobolik Photography Patty Thompson (Three Questions, Four Mothers) Trey Hill (Find Your Spot, A Peculiar People) Amanda Guevara (Easter Eggsperience) The Big Cheese Bill Buchanan

Contact Chatter at chatter@irvingbible.org.

Chatter is a publication of Irving Bible Church | 2435 Kinwest Pkwy, Irving, TX 75063 (972) 560-4600 | irvingbible.org

UPDATE: Easter Eggsperience

On Saturday April 23, IBCers and families from the community attended IBCs annual Eggsperience, an Easter celebration complete with bounce houses, a petting zoo, egg hunt, face painting and more including the Easter Path, a hands-on experience designed to connect kids and parents to the story of Jesus crucifixion and resurrection.

THE ADOPTIVE MOTHER

ALEX HALE (age 27) Mother of Vaughn, 4 (biological) and Banke, 2 (adopted from Ethiopia) I became a mom about five years ago when I got pregnant with our son Vaughn. Then, when our son was 20 months old, my husband and I both felt God directing us to adopt. We began that process when our son was about 20 months old and 17 months later we welcomed our daughter, Banke, into our family. We are currently in the process of our second adoption and we plan to grow our family through adoption from here on out.

THE SPECIALLY SUITED MOTHER

AMY SCHUH (age 39) Mother of Andrew, 15; Hailey, 12; and Adam, 12 Andrew and Hailey are my birth children from my first marriage, which ended when my husband shook seven-week-old Hailey, destroying about 75 percent of her brain. I acquired Adam through my second marriage to Don, who adopted Adam as a single father during Adams infancy. Both Hailey and Adam are low-functioning due to multiple severe disabilities, and Andrew has Acute Teenager Syndrome.

Its been said that a mothers job is never finished, and many others laugh at the redundancy of the phrase working mother. Its with these sayings in mind that Chatter would like to honor the wonderful mothers of Irving Bible Church for their amazing gifts and sacrifices. We decided to sit down with four mothers to get a little insight into the real world of mothering and asked these women a few hard questions. Their responses were humbling and honest.
What do you fear the most for your children? My greatest fear for my children is that I will fail to cultivate in them an understanding of who they are in Christ and the gifts God has given them. Being an adoptive mother, I find that this concept has taken on an even greater level of importance. My husband and I have a lot of wounds to heal in our children before we can instill in them a sense of their value within our family and, most importantly, of their value to God. I believe that if, and only if, we can get our kids to understand their worth they can achieve the work that God has for them. (Alex) My greatest fear for my two children with disabilities is their long-term care. When I am no longer able to care for them, either because of my age or health, or because Im no longer here at all, someone else will be responsible for them; and I dont know whether that someone else will take that responsibility as seriously as I do. Whether it be a family member designated in a will or an institution, I cant expect any other caregivers commitment or integrity or even love to be as intense as mine, and that scares me. (Amy) When my children were all under my roof, I tended to fear for their physical safety the most. The mother bear in me was very protective of them, and I couldnt imagine how I could live if I lost one of them. That would still be a fear if the Lord hadnt dealt with me in the area of my imagination. Most of what we fear never happens, so we waste a lot of time and emotional energy fretting unnecessarily. Besides, over and over again in the Scriptures, God commands, Do not be afraid, Do not worry. It is a trust issue not trusting that nothing bad will ever happen trust that Gods grace will be there the moment I need it and it will be sufficient. This has been the biggest and hardest lesson to learn. (Alice) I fear many things as a mother, but my three main concerns are finances, world economy and education. The first two kind of go hand-in-hand since my finances fear comes from the world economy and what it looks like today and where its going in the future. Will my child have enough money to do what he needs and wants and be able to retire when he expects to? Lastly is the state of our education system and where that is headed. Ive heard talks of possibly taking kindergarten out of the school and having more children in a class with fewer teachers. Will my child get the education and attention he needs to thrive? Should I think about private school? Just all the uncertainty is nerve-wracking! (Emily) What is the most gratifying thing about being a mom? In my experience, the most gratifying part of being a mom is how it has forced me to rely on God above all others. When our son was about 18 months old I suffered a miscarriage. This was one of the first times in my relationship with my husband that I simply could not be comforted by him alone. I quickly came to the realization that he would never suffer that loss in quite the way I did and, if Im being honest, still do. Through my grief and loss, God brought me to a place where I finally understood just how intimately he knows me. Similarly, through becoming a mother, God has opened my eyes to my need for community with other women. Ive been blessed with some amazing friends who understand my struggles and triumphs, my good days and my bad. (Alex) My two children with special needs dont bring home trophies or good grades; they cant say thanks, Mom, and theyll never give me grandchildren. The many opportunities throughout childhood that enable most children to give back to their mothers the memories and milestones that tell a mom shes doing a good job simply

THE SEASONED PRO

ALICE McQUITTY (age 54) Mother of five children, ages 30, 27, 24, 21, 18 and a grandmother to two I have been a mother for 30 years! I am also the proud grandmother of two beautiful grandchildren. I cant believe I am that old! As they say, the days were sometimes long, but the years were short. Still, I dont think I ever quite figured it all out. Children have a way of keeping us humble!

THE NEW MOTHER

EMILY SNELLING (age 26) Mother of Ryan, 8 months I am a first-time mom going through the wonderful ups (and downs) of life as a new mother along with being a full-time working parent outside the house.

arent available to me. My reassurance comes in knowing that I am within the will of God (Ive been outside it, and this is way better, even with the back pain). My joy comes in the sight of their smiles and the sound of their laughter; they are angels who can brighten any day. (Amy) The most gratifying thing about being a mom is watching my children develop into adults who love and walk with God. I am also gratified to realize that I actually like and enjoy being around my grown-up children! I will always love them because I am their mom, but it is a joy to say that I like them, and that I would choose to be around them even if they werent my children. They have become more like young friends, each of them gifted in their own way, so that I find myself asking their opinion on a variety of things. When I look back and remember all the times I had to keep repeating myself, and all the prayers I had to keep praying, and all the nights I fell exhausted into bed, I can say it has all been more than worth it. (Alice) The most gratifying part about being a mother for me is when Ive had a stressful day at work and all I have to do is see his smile and Im reminded it doesnt matter, and the stress just melts away. Just knowing God created him special for my husband, Tim and me. (Emily) What advice would you give to people thinking of becoming mothers? Before embarking on the journey of parenthood, I believe the most important thing to consider is your support system. Entering parenthood is difficult at times even for the strongest of people and the strongest of marriages. As for those considering adoption, I think it is imperative that people consider their motives and their commitment to their whole child. In adopting our daughter, my husband and I have read more books than I can recall about attaching in adoption and have attended just about every function that Tapestry has put on in the past two and a half years. Looking back now I can say that adopting our daughter has changed me, my marriage and our family for the better. It has been the greatest trial and the greatest triumph God has blessed me with as a mother. (Alex) Advice for potential moms: get yourself a good village. Whether its the butcher, the baker, or the candlestick maker, your villagers will come to your rescue and enhance your childs life in ways you never imagined. Motherhood has taught me that the village is part of Gods design; life works best when its shared. (Amy) If you are waiting until you feel ready or until you have enough money, you will never become a mother. Nothing can really prepare you, and there will never be enough money. So I say, if you are in a strong marriage, go for it! It will change your life forever; it will be the hardest thing you ever do, but you will never regret it. God will teach you things you could never otherwise learn, much of it about yourself,

but most of it about him, as you run to him daily for wisdom, strength, stamina and grace. You will be astonished at the overwhelming love you have for your children, and then you will begin to realize something of the love God has for you as his child. I would also advise being intimately connected to the Body of Christ. You will need lots of support in this endeavor, so make sure you have people in your life who hold your values and who will be an encouragement to you along the way. (Alice) I would give others the advice I was given by my parents: if youre waiting until you have enough time, money, career in a perfect place, etc., you will never be there. Now is the best time, God willing, and his timing is perfect. (Emily) Special thanks to Kristy Alpert for compiling this article.

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new.
-Rajneesh

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To learn more, visit the Find Your Spot display in Town Square May 1May 30, or on the web at findyourspot.irvingbible.org.

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Irving Bible Church: a community on a journey

Journeys 1981 hit Dont Stop Believin is the top-selling catalog track in iTunes history.

Chatter | 8

AS

a lifelong biker, I resonated with a Nissan ad a few years ago that pictured a car squealing to a stop as the words of professional motorcycle racer Bill McKenna intoned:

Life is not a journey to the grave with intentions of arriving safely in a pretty well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out and loudly proclaiming WOW! What a ride! Perhaps not everybody wants a life quite that exciting, but I think its safe to guess everybody does want a joyful and fulfilling life. We all want our journey to be meaningful and good and to be able to say at the end: WOW! What a ride! At IBC, we believe that God promises such lives to his people as together we make and keep three basic commitments. We have been expressing these commitments in terms of a journey, a journey upon which we invite every follower of Jesus Christ at Irving Bible Church. I just thought youd like to know that our leaders have recently been clarifying and confirming once again the following journey language that defines what IBC is all about:

Alex Noble has observed, Success is not a place at which one arrives but rather the spirit with which one undertakes and continues the journey. At IBC, the spirit of the journey is one of learning and growing and maturing and changing in the pursuit of attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
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 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. At IBC we believe that walking together on the journey is essential not just because its beneficial but also because its one of Jesus commands: A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another (John 13:34-35).

Why are we (as a church) here?

Simply stated, IBC is on a journey committed to growing in Christ, connecting in community and joining the mission. I realize thats saying a mouthful in just three short phrases! So lets unpack the journey at IBC by looking a bit more closely at each ongoing commitment that comprises it.
Growing in Christ

IBC is on a journey committed to growing in Christ, connecting in community and joining the mission.

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 is for our hearts and lives to become more like the one who has saved us. This is the aspect of the journey to which the Apostle Paul calls us in his letter to the Ephesians: So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ (4:11-13).

It is Jesus heart that people everywhere come to know his love in and through the love his followers demonstrate for one another. Thats why connecting in community is a high priority at IBC. With Tim Cahill we affirm, A journey is best measured in friends rather than in miles.
Joining the Mission

The gospel tells us 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. Jesus Christ was not only on a mission when he came to our world over 2,000 years ago. He was also launching a mission that he entrusted to all of his followers for the rest of time: Then Jesus came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:18-20). So yes, at IBC we are all about growing in Christ and connecting in community. But our journey doesnt end there. We grow and connect so that we can join the mission of God. Its when were actively pursuing all three commitments of the journey that well be able to loudly proclaim, WOW! What a ride! Hope to see you on the way. Pastor Andys grandchildren would like to take a moment to express their appreciation for Pops secret stash of candy.

E-TOOLS FOR THE JOURNEY

At IBC weve recognized the importance of communicating more clearly and effectively through our various online venues. The first way weve set out to do this is by updating our web site to be more user-friendly and engaging. We re-launched it at Easter and invite you to check it out when you have a free minute: irvingbible.org. The other new development is the creation of a weekly e-newsletter called the IBC eLetter that will be available by subscription at connect.irvingbible.org where you can sign up to receive information about key ministry events and announcements, along with a short devotional to encourage you in your spiritual walk week-toweek. The IBC eLetter will be e-mailed out every Wednesday. We encourage you to subscribe.

Mission Foods is an American manufacturer of tortillas and tortilla-related products based in Irving, Texas.

Travel writer Tim Cahill set a world record for speed in driving the entire length of the American continents in twenty-three days, twenty-two hours, and forty-three minutes.

Chatter | 9

Chatter Crossword:

May Flowers
1 4 6 8 10 5

Welcome to the merry, merry month ofwell, you know. Flowers in bloom, flip-flops on every street corner, and freshfaced young mosquitoes out for blood. A lovely time of year. Heres a little something to make your May even merrier.

ACROSS
2. Jamestown captain from May 2, 1607 6. Counterculture slogan coined by Allen Ginsberg 7. What Mays birthstone symbolizes 10. Bellis simplex 14. Steel involving Julia Roberts 16. State for Bluebonnets 17. City for hair flowers 19. Carnation ______ Breakfast 22. Title of Come What May film 24. Hippie synonym 26. Other name for Cinco de Mayo 28. Replaced in 2008 by Massive Ordnance Air Blast Bomb (MOAB) 30. Distress signal 31. Goddess namesake 33. To whom Rod Stewart thinks he has something to say 35. What brings them 36. Whom Elvis married May 1, 1967 37. ______ of the valley 38. National ______ Month in UK 39. Author of poem May-Flower 42. R&B singer turning 22 May 5 45. Black-eyed 49. Botanical garden 50. German luxury car manufacturer 51. Young unmarried woman 52. Chinese restaurant off Belt Line Road 55. Mirror image of May 56. Clintonera Flowers 58. 17th century maypole haters 59. Spy plane shot down over central Russia May 1, 1960 60. Mother ______ I?

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1. Binomial nomenclature for Peony 3. The opposite of crossword theme 4. Ancient people for whom May 1 was the an important holiday 5. Tulip country 8. The ______ month 9. Folk festival spectacle 11. May, the polite form of ______ 12. Fannie Mae and Freddie ______
Chatter | 10

DOWN

13. Mays holiday 15. Mays birth flower 18. Novel by Louisa May Alcott 20. Liturgical color of Advent and Lent 21. Skunk with sweet-smelling name 23. Small and white, clean and bright 25. Mae of tawdry 30s fame 27. Cosmetics brand 29. Alternative proper name spelling

32. British car show, co-hosted by James May 34. What may most commonly expresses 40. President with May birthday 41. ______ Americans Month, named by John F. Kennedy 43. Author of May-pole of Merry Mount

44. Topic of writings from which April showers bring May flowers originated 46. Busiest month for Americans to ______ 47. What a flower girl throws 48. Corns technical term 53. May I have the ______? 54. Spanish for May 57. The flower experts
...key on page 18!

New IBC Teaching Series from 1 Peter

The seventeenth century King James translators rendered 1 Peter 2:9: But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people Were not sure ensuing generations of Christians who saw this last phrase felt exactly flattered. Though we might aspire to many things in this world, few would put peculiarity on the list! But we should. According to A. T. Robertson, the word peculiar comes from the Latin pecus which means flock. The KJV translators were simply reflecting the idea that believers in Christ are the unique possession of God. They are his flock. Also, the actual word in 1 Peter 2:9 is the Greek peripoiesis which means personal property. The New American Standard version translates this phrase, a people for Gods own possession. The NIV says, a people belonging to God, and the NKJV says, His own special people. Suddenly the aspiration to be a peculiar people isnt quite so strange! We, as believers in Jesus Christ, are the personal possession of God. He made us new creations in Christ Jesus (2 Cor. 5:17) and then put a circle of ownership around us to indicate that these people belong to Me. We are not only the special objects of his love and care, but we are to live in a way that is consistent with our new identity. Peculiar is as peculiar does! We are to live unique lives to the glory of God. 1 Peter teaches us how to do this. Though it is only five chapters long, it is an important New Testament letter for us to study since it contains important themes that followers of Jesus must master if we would serve Jesus faithfully in our own day. Themes like: Grasping our true identity as Gods people Appreciating our salvation rather than taking it for granted Learning obedience and submission even though its tough Practicing holiness without developing a sanctimonious smirk Living in the world without being tainted by it Emulating Christs sacrificial lifestyle so it becomes our own Growing through our sufferings rather than being defeated by them and learning to love and be faithful in all of our relationships. A community of Christ-followers whose lives show these qualities is peculiar indeedin the best possible way. we hope youll join us over the thirteen weeks following Easter as we study Gods Word together and pursue lives of true peculiarity.

1 Peter Teaching Series Schedule

May 1: 1 Peter 1: 1-12 A peculiar kind of hope May 8: 1 Peter 1:13-21 A peculiar kind of holiness May 15: 1 Peter 1:222:3 A peculiar kind of love May 22: 1 Peter 2:4-17 A peculiar kind of identity May 29: 1 Peter 2:183:7 A peculiar kind of sacrifice

June 5: 1 Peter 3:8-17 A peculiar kind of culture June 12 (Pentecost Sunday) June 19: 1 Peter 3:18-22 A peculiar kind of disciple June 26: 1 Peter 4:1-6 A peculiar kind of resolve July 3: 1 Peter 4:7-11 A peculiar kind of motivation

July 10: 1 Peter 4:12-19 A peculiar kind of leadership July 17: 1 Peter 5:1-5 A peculiar kind of joy July 24: 1 Peter 5:6-14 A peculiar kind of faith

Join us Sundays in the Worship Center at 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 5 p.m. Visit media.irvingbible.org for podcasts and TruthCasts (video) of the IBC Teaching Series.

How do you envision the New Testament being used in Kutch?

H: We have missionaries here making personal contact with people, and for birthdays or special occasions they will call them and give them a Bible. We also have 400 schools in the western part of Kutch. Our plan is to put Bibles in school libraries.
Describe your emotions the first time you saw the whole thing printed.

H: I have no words to describe it. Yesterday I was sharing about this with tears in my eyes. All the credit goes to the Lord because he has helped me, and whenever I was discouraged he provided me good encouragement from the Word and from his disciples.
Briefly describe the process of translating something into a language where there are no written words.

Kutchi is a spoken language; there is no Kutchi script. Our scholar who helped me with the translation created special fonts.
So it was more than just translating from word to word. You actually had to make the words.

Yes.
Hanson with his daughter and wife Mary.

Who is going to read [The New Testament]? The problem for the Kutchi people is they dont have a language subject in school. They dont have a practice of reading Kutchi. The government is interested in developing the Kutchi language. They are putting teachers in the Kutchi schools so Kutchi will [soon] be a subject in schools. People will come to know how to read Kutchi.
So the groundwork you did will benefit all Kutchi even if they never read the Bible.

Hanson Harry: an interview

For the past decade, IBC has supported the efforts of local missionaries in Kutch, India as they have translated the New Testament into the Kutchi language. Kutch is located in the Gujarat state of western India. The Kutchi people are an unreached people group, which means that less than 2% of the population is comprised of evangelical Christians. Each state in India has a distinctive culture and a variety of languages, many of which are unwritten, like Kutchi. (The predominant language of India is Hindi.) Hanson Harry is the primary translator responsible for the completion of the Kutchi New Testament. IBCers recently traveled to Kutch to help celebrate this milestone and sat down with Hanson for a video interview. This is part of the transcript.
Tell us what the process has been like. Why did you decide to get involved?

Yes. And one more benefit from this is: faith comes by hearing. [The Bible Society decided] that they will also make an audio Bible, so we have that advantage. Most of the illiterate people [in Kutch will be able to] listen. One more thing I can say: a lot of struggle and pain I have faced over the past 10 years. For 10 years it was like labor pain. But today I forgot all the pain and I am rejoicing, because in the coming days the Kutchi will read and come to know Christ as their personal savior. That is my reason and my prayer. Join us Sunday June 12 at IBC as we celebrate the New Testament in Kutch on Pentecost Sunday.

Hanson: I came to know about Christ when I was reading the Bible. I came to know it is a powerful Word. It was my hearts desire to have the New Testament in Kutchi for my brothers and sisters living in Kutch. Previously I was a TV repairman, so lots of my customers were Muslims and Kutchi -speaking. I had the word of God in my language; daily I was reading it, but they were without the Word; and without the Word they are going to perish. So that helped me and encouraged me to enroll in this translation ministry.
10 years is a long time to be dedicated to one thing.

Centers of Kutchi Population

PERSIAN GULF QATAR
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

IRAN GULF OF OMAN

PAKISTAN

H: The Bible Society asked me to do the translation work. At the time I was worried what is translation? How to translate? They provided me training and I came to know how to translate the Bible.
What kind of struggles did you face?

Bhuj
SAUDI ARABIA RED SEA OMAN

INDIA

YEMEN

H: I struggled a lot from the non-Christians. When I went for the language correction, to Kutchi scholars, they helped me for two Gospels Mark and Luke but then they did not continue because they came to know this was Christian literature that was going to be used to convert Kutchi people. For two or three years I struggled because Kutchi is not my mother tongue I was born [elsewhere] but I know Kutchi very well sometimes I may miss one word. I was worried about that and praying about that. God answered my prayer and brought me [a friend] to help with the translation work.
KENYA

ARABIAN SEA
DJIBOUTI GULF OF ADEN

ETHIOPIA

SRI

LANKA

SOMALIA

Mombasa

MUSIC.
Join us at the pond behind IBC for live bands, food from the various countries and ethnicities represented at IBC, bounce houses, activities for kids and families, multicultural arts and crafts vendors, and more.
More info at pentecost.irvingbible.org.

FOOD. F UN . JUN E 12

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Stories from ESL

English as a Second Language

Honduras, Brazil, Mexico, Korea, Russia, Japan, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Ecuador. These are just a few of the countries that have been represented at IBCs weekly Wednesday night ESL classes. IBCs 2435 Kinwest ministry has been hosting ESL classes the past four semesters for students who want to improve their English skills. There are classes for beginners, as well as for intermediate and advanced students. Over the course of these semesters, something beautiful has been created: a rich, warm, multicultural community at IBC. From sharing the Wednesday night meals together to swapping worksheets and participating in group activities, those who may otherwise be isolated by their lack of English fluency are now part of a bigger family. One student, who has an Englishspeaking husband, said, I am going to church with my husband for the first time in our marriage. We can now worship together. ESL classes continue through the school year and will resume again after Labor Day. If you have a heart for international students and love the English language, please prayerfully consider joining the ESL ministry as a volunteer this fall. Contact: 2435esl@irvingbible.org.

Laundry Love: Amigo Laundromat in Irving, TX

Imagine for a moment being a single parent, wondering whether you should put gas in your car or wash your kids laundry on Saturday. Should you walk to the laundromat to save gas? But then how do you get to work next week if you spend money washing clothes? Or do you send your kids to school in dirty jeans? These are daily questions for folks living below the poverty level in Irving. On Saturday, May 7, the Laundry Love Project, a Just 4 One initiative, will be continuing its ministry to our community at the Amigo Laundromat in south Irving (3349 Country Club Dr.). This ministry will provide much needed financial relief for the Townsell Elementary and Sam Houston Middle School families who are living at or below the poverty line by assisting them with the cost of doing their laundry. There are so many opportunities to be part of this ministry, from donating funds for laundry soap and supplies, to donating time by coming to hang out, fold some clothes, and build relationships. Last month at its inaugural event, Laundry Love did about $300 worth of laundry and gave away tons of donuts and drinks. The highlight of the day was a family who had just moved from Ohio after the husband lost his job. They were living in an extended-stay hotel with seven weeks worth of laundry. God led them to the Amigo Laundromat and volunteers from Laundry Love helped with their clothes. The family called the volunteers late Saturday night and asked if they could meet them at church on Sunday. They came to IBC and loved it. If you are interested in finding your place in the midst of detergent, quarters, and wash cycles, please e-mail Amy Glover at aglover7576@hotmail.com for more information.

NBC first aired SNL on October 11, 1975.

Each year Americans wash an estimated 100 million tons of clothing and linens. (Source: Procter & Gamble)

Chatter | 13

THIS MONTH
Bible Communities
Communities on Sunday
Theres always something new going on in Bible communities! Heres a taste of whats happening this month: Synergy 9 a.m. Middle School Room May series: American Idols exploring the values in our culture that compete with seeking Gods kingdom first. The Tree 9 a.m. West D May series: fruit of the Spirit virtue Faithfulness. The Tree is a Bible Community for young marrieds and young families in their 20s and 30s. Crossroads 10:45 a.m. Alcove May series: the biblical view of marriage. Marriage can be one of the most beautiful and difficult aspects of the Christian life. Join us as we encourage one another in our family relationships for Gods glory. Renew 10:45 a.m. Training Center May series: Why Jesus? Answering Tough Questions About Our Savior. Come explore tough questions about the identity of Jesus. What do we believe about him and why? Also, join us for fun, sun and relaxation at the Renew Class Family Picnic. (date TBA) Thrive 10:45 a.m. West D May series: sharing your faith naturally and conversationally. Dont miss our annual Missions Dinner on May 21. For more information or to find out more about all our Bible communities, visit biblecommunities. irvingbible.org or call Jen at (972) 560-4655. MyZone Wednesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. The Zone Team-building activities, life-application conversations and highimpact fun! Grades K5. program for survivors of all forms of abuse. We discuss what the Bible says about abuse and how surviving abuse has impacted us. Womens group, contact Bernadette (Bernie): (678) 860-4575. Mens group, contact Paul: (214) 226-8234. cArthur near Walgreens Pharmacy. 2:30 p.m. Entertainment Center at Carpenter Hall presents: Jim Witter The Piano Man. Contact bgroezinger@verizon.net.

Espaol

Bilingual Ministry
Traduccin del Servicio los Domingos Traduccin simultnea en el Servicio de las 5 p.m. Escuchnlo en la red: irvingbible.org. Se necesitan traductores. Sunday Service Translation Simultaneous translation available during the 5 p.m. service. Spanish Translations online at irvingbible. org. Translators needed. ESL: (Ingles Como Segundo Idioma) Cada mircoles desde 6:308:30 p.m. AZ14 & 15 Quiere aprender ingls? Quiere mejorar su ingls? Ven a las clases de ingls (ESL)! Practica en las cuatro destrezas: lectura, escritura, oral y auditiva. Para ms informacin, contacte a Corey Wallis: 2435esl@irvingbible. org. Estudio Biblico de Mujeres Martes 9:30 a 11:30 a.m. o 6:30 a 8:30 p.m. Acompaanos a estudiar y meditar en la palabra de Dios junto a otras mujeres. Womens Bible Study Tuesdays 9:3011:30 a.m. or 6:308:30 p.m. Join us as we study Gods word with other women.

Single-Parent Family IBCMen

Community and Resources Ministry to Men
First Watch Fridays at 6:22 a.m., Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Current Series: Marketplace Matters: how God is using your job to shape your character. First Watch Xtra Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m. in the Training Center. For more information, visit men.irvingbible.org. Girl Stuff Saturday, May 7, 9 a.m.-Noon Alcove Making a Surprise. Breakfast included. Register online at singleparents.irvingbible.org. For more info contact Marsha at mtribbett@irvingbible.org.

Student Ministries
Sundays 6:458 p.m. 6-8th grade meets in The Commons. 9-12th grade meets in the High School Room.

Middle/High School and College

International Partners
Kutchi New Testament Celebration date change The date for the Kutchin New Testament Celebration at IBC has changed from May 1 to June 12. Please join us Sunday, June 12 at 12:30 p.m. in West D. RSVP to dprevilon@irvingbible.org.

Wednesdays 5:308 p.m. 6th-12th grade. Join us each Wednesday to experience the W. Bring $3 for a delicious meal and stay for fun, games and friendships. Contact mconnor@irvingbible.org. College Ministry Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. The Alcove Join the IBC College Ministry in the Alcove (below the Mosaic Caf at IBC). For more information, contact camillekholland@ gmail.com.

Local Partners

Reaching the Community

Laundry Love first Saturday of each month, 9 a.m.-Noon Amigo Laundromat, Irving TX Amigo Laundromat is located at 3349 Country Club Dr. Please join us as we strike up conversations and build relationships at the laundromat just down the street from Sam Houston Middle School. For more info contact Amy at aglover7576@hotmail.com.

Hope and Healing

Community Care
Recovery at IBC Thursdays, 68:30 p.m. West Wing Youth Lounge Do you deal with perfectionism, pride, overeating, inappropriate anger or control? Join us for a light meal at 6 p.m. for just $4. Shelter from the Storm Tuesday/Wednesday evenings A 16-week confidential small group study for women who have experienced the trauma of sexual abuse. We will experience what it means to find hope and healing. For more information, contact Michelle Robinson at shelterfromthestormibc@gmail.org. Grace for the Wounded Weekly Groups, 6:30 p.m. A confidential weekly small group

We

Ministry To Women
Womens Bible Study Resumes in September MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Thursday, May 19, 78:30 p.m. in The Commons This is our last meeting for the semester. For more info, contact Jodie at jniznik@irvingbible.org.

Children

Infants Through 5th Grade

Respite Care Every fourth Saturday For families that have children with special needs. Contact Diana at dblessing@irvingbible.org. VBS: Pandamania See ad, pg. 17. We are looking for leaders and coordinators to make this a great experience for our kids. Please contact Dee Stafford at sprmommy@gmail.com.

Seasoned Saints
For Folks Ages 55+ Fellowship Lunch and Show Sunday, May 15 12:30 p.m. Nobody has to cook! Join us at Dickeys Barbeque Pit located at 5330 N. MacArthur just south of Walnut Hill in the shopping center on the east side of Ma-

Chatter | 14

Young Adults
20s and Early 30s
The Gathering First 3 Thursdays in May, 7 p.m. The Mosaic Caf A place for young adults to relax, enjoy great music, food, conversation and encouragement. Taste of Addison Saturday May 21 Join IBC young adults for a Saturday of Addison fun. Contact youngadults@irvingbible.org for more details. The Bridge Tuesday, May 17 Where women of different ages and stages connect to grow closer as an IBC family. For more info contact: youngadults@irvingbible.org.

Search to find jobs before others do Build your confidence and ace the interview Alert: If your company is hiring or you know of other companies that are, contact Lisa at 2435jobtransitions@irvingbible.org. For more information, contact Anna Martinez at amartinez@irvingbible.org. FREE Citizenship Class Wednesdays, 6:308 p.m. For those at least 18 years old who have been issued a Permanent Resident Card. The class runs approximately twelve weeks. Well guide you through the N-400 paperwork and prepare you for the main components of the new citizenship test. Contact citizenship@irvingbible.org to register. ESL: English as a Second Language Wednesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. AZ14 & 15 Do you want to learn English? Do you want to improve your English? Come to ESL classes! Practice all four skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. For more info, contact Corey Wallis at 2435esl@irvingbible.org. Visit 2435kinwest.org for a list of other activities and ways to get involved.

ing in May. Mark your calendars for our end-of-year membership family party slated for Saturday, June 4. More details in your NICHE newsletter! If you have questions about NICHE or homeschooling, please visit our website: texasniche06@gmail.com. IBC Crop Night May 6, 510 p.m. Training Center Join us for scrapbooking fun! If you are new to scrapbooking let us know and we will be happy to help get you started. Dont hesitate to join us if you are a card maker, paper crafter, or digital scrapper. For more information please contact Nikki Heinemann at nikkiscraps@verizon.net. Stitches of Faith Tuesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. Mosaic Caf Spring has sprung and we are busy gathering squares for our soldiers. If you would like to contribute squares or yarn, please place them in the closet (right side) of the Haven. Contact Wendy Vera at msbabydragon@yahoo.com or (214) 533-2781. Budget Coaching Do you ever run out of money before you run out of month? Weve all been there. Sign up for a personal budget coach at mmcoach.org and learn practical stewardship skills. Hearing Assistance Hearing Assistance is available during all three worship services. You can stop by the Journey Lounge for instructions.

New Arrivals Congratulations to the following families on the births of their children: Clifford and Michelle Allen and their son Nathaniel Mark, born December 9, 7 lbs 9 oz, 20 inches Jim and Peggy Minatra and their daughter Abigail Faith, born February 14, 5 lbs 3 oz, 18 inches Scot and Michelle Robinson and their daughter Sarah Grace, born March 22, 7 lbs 14 oz, 19 inches Steven and Allison Harrell and their son Eli Quinn, born April 18, 9 lbs 5 oz, 20 inches

2435 Kinwest

Wednesday Nights at IBC

IBC Career Transition Ministry Wednesdays, 6:308 p.m. Want to find a job in 2011? Join the Career Ministry at IBC and you will: Learn how to make a rock-solid resume Learn the importance of networking Use the Internet and LinkedIn to find jobs and network

Miscellaneous

A Little Bit of Everything

NICHE North Irving Christian Home Educators We will not have a monthly meet-

Do you love helping kids grow in Christ and find joy in watching them experience him?
Paid positions are available in KidZone for Special Event opportunities. For more information please contact Michelle Tibbatts at (972) 560-4633 ext. 591 or kidzone@irvingbible.org. KidZone is a ministry to children whose parents attend the various adult ministries during the week at IBC.

Chatter | 15

Are You New to IBC?

You're probably wanting to learn more about who we are, what we believe and how to get plugged in.

On a Mission
What is KidVenture? KidVenture is an adventure for you and your family like no other! Join with other families, small group leaders, and childrens ministry staff as we go ON A MISSION to help those in need. The Mission Join us as we help pack bags for families at Services of Hope. Saturday, May 7, 9 a.m. 12 p.m. Services of Hope (Please note: New address) 11425 Marsh Lane Dallas, Texas 75229 For more info, contact Kurtlyn at kferguson@irvingbible.org.

Newcomer Gathering is for you.

Wednesday, May 25, 6:30 p.m. in The Alcove If you are new to IBC, we invite you to attend a Newcomer Gathering. This informal get-together is for anyone wanting to learn more about who we are, what we believe and how to get plugged in regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey. Meet elders and church leadership, ask questions and get to know other IBCers. Register online at newcomergathering.irvingbible.org. KidZone is available for children birth-preschool. Register at least 48-hours in advance at kidzone.irvingbible.org. For children kindergarten-5th grade, MyZone is availible (no registration necessary.

What theyre saying about Propel

Since taking Propel, I have become involved in several ministries already, and am constantly finding new and exciting avenues for using my talents and abilities. Taking the class was by far one of the best decisions Ive made both as an IBCer and a Christian, and through it, my relationship with God has been undoubtedly strengthened. Evan I miss Propel. Maybe it was the intimate, small group journey with fellow IBCers. Maybe it was having a definitive context for understanding what our Beloved Community is all about. I would strongly encourage every IBCer, no matter how long theyve been in the family, to go through Propel. Vennecia I would recommend that all members of IBC attend this class. I came away inspired to be a better witness for Christ, and learned so much about how I can use my gifts and talents to help bear fruit for Gods Kingdom. Renee

Still looking to find your place at IBC? Been here forever but cant seem to figure out what its all about and how you fit into the larger picture? Want to have free breakfast every Sunday for four weeks?

Propel is an experience designed to help you figure out how you can best plug into 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.

Register: Four consecutive weeks starting June 5 at 10:45 a.m. in West A. Register at propel.irvingbible.org. And for more information contact Jen at (972) 5604655 or jlefforge@irvingbible.org. Space is limited. Register early so someone else doesnt get your bagel.

Andrew Esparza Memorial

Invite your single-parent friends and neighbors to this FREE* event!

Activities include: live DJ, midway games, pony rides, petting zoo, bounce houses, Wildlife on the Move, face painting, clowns, tours of an Irving Police Dept. SWAT truck and a real life Care Flight helicopter. Volunteers Only: Register online under Single Parent Ministry/Upcoming Events/Carnival. Questions? Call Jennifer at jerlenbusch@irvingbible.org.

high school & middle school

Beach Camp 2011

Gulf Shores, Alabama

July 21-25

at Mustang Park Rec. Center (across from IBC)

*event is free except for concessions

Saturday, May 14, 58 p.m.

Cost is $340. To register visit students.irvingbible.org. For more information, contact Mary Ann at mconnor@irvingbible.org.

What: Vacation Bible School (VBS) When: June 27-30, 9 a.m. Noon Where: Irving Bible Church Who: Children entering Kindergarten Grade 5 (preschool program available for children whose parent/guardian is serving on the VBS team) Cost: $20 per child ($30 after June 1) $50 max. per family. Scholarships available. Space is limited! To register, visit: vbs.irvingbible.org. For more information or to volunteer, contact Kurtlyn at kferguson@irvingbible.org or call (972) 560-4633 ext.535.

SUNDAY SCHEDULE
First Worship Service: 9 a.m.
Childrens Classes (all ages) Nexus (40+ singles), The Alcove The Tree (young marrieds and families), West D Synergy (30s, 40s and 50s couples), Middle School Room

HOW DO I GIVE
My Time, Talents & Skills
Special Needs Ministry Volunteers Do you have a heart for children with differences? SonShine Pals assist children with special needs on Sundays during service times, and also one night a month at Respite Care. Contact Diana for more info at dblessing@irvingbible.org. Medical Professionals Needed If you are an MD, DO, PA, or NP, the 2435 Kinwest Clinic needs you Wednesday nights at IBC. For more info contact John Parks at jparks@2435clinic.org. The Scoop on Jobs The 2435 Job Transition workshop at IBC is looking for info on job opportunities. If your company is hiring or you know of companies hiring, pass along the info to Lisa at 2435jobtransition@irvingbible.org. Visitor Follow-Up Team (Rex Greenstreet Ministry) We are looking for volunteers one Monday evening a month to call, write, and e-mail people who have recently visited IBC. Training and coaching will be provided. For more info, contact visitor@irvingbible. org or call Suzanne Walker at (972) 402-8563. Mentor Kids in Single-Parent Families Men mentor a boy, and women mentor a girl from a single-parent family. Contact Marsha at mtribbett@ irvingible.org.

My Resources
Laundry Soap and Dryer Sheets Laundry Love (see article pg. 13) is collecting laundry soap and dryer sheets for their monthly events in Irving. Please bring these to the Laundry Love box in the donation center in Town Square. For more info contact Amy at aglover7576@hotmail.com. Send a Single-Parent Family to Camp Sponsor a family or make a donation for a single-parent family to attend Horn Creek Camp in June 2011. Contact Jennifer at jerlenbusch@irvingbible.org. Care Packages for Armed Forces Help send care packages to those IBCers deployed in our armed forces. If you are interested in joining this team, or if you are a friend or family member of a deployed service man or woman and would like to add them to our list, please contact A. Gayland Leddy at (817) 320-3990 or eachief@sbcglobal.net. Cars for Missionary Families Do you have an extra car to loan a missionary family on furlough? Contact the International Initiatives Department (amartinez@irvingbible.org). Online Giving Option If you would find it more convenient to donate to the ministries of Irving Bible Church online, please visit give.irvingbible.org.

Second Worship Service: 10:45 a.m.

Childrens Classes (all ages) Crossroads (mid 20s to mid 30s couples), The Alcove On Track (single parents), West C Journey (all welcome), Middle School Room Girlfriends (solo on Sundays), Conference Room Renew (multi-generational), Training Center Thrive (30s and 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.

The Point (20s singles), The Alcove Legacy Builders (all welcome), Zone Jr. 7 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.

Also, check out the Needs Board in the Town Square to find out how you can help meet the needs of others at IBC.

Chatter Crossword:
1 4 6 8

5/1 5/8

Pizza, breadsticks, salad Fajita Madness

May Flowers Key (from page 10)

P E E R P
5 2

5/15 Hamburgers and brauts 5/22 IBCWay sandwiches, chips, salad 5/29 No meal (Memorial Day Weekend)
If youd like to serve on a Sunday night meal team, contact Pat OReilly at (214) 289-6176 or sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org.
F I F
16 10

O
7

N O

N R
11 12 15

O W M

O W E N T H E

V E
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E
9

M A Y P

A N

Y
17

Y A N F

C A L I L S

M A C O
20

13

M O T H

M B E R P

R L

Wednesday Midweek Meals

Each Wednesday night from 56:20 p.m., IBC prepares 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!

H
19 21 24

18

L I

O L E

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22

Y M O F U L

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F L O W E E S T
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23

T T B L E W O
31

D S
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O A L L E R T

D U E L W E I S

O W E R
32 33

T H

M A Y B
30

E V

5/4

Lasagna, breadsticks, salad, dessert

T

29

M A E

5/11 Salisbury steak, baked potatoes, green beans, salad, dessert 5/18 Hamburgers, baked beans, chips, dessert 5/25 Ham, mac n cheese, mixed veggies, salad, dessert All meals this month are hosted by Bob Dorman and team.
Changes to the menu may be made depending on food cost and availability. If youd like to serve on a Wednesday night meal team, please e-mail bdowney@irvingbible.org.

A L

Y
34

M E

E L

Y
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P E R S

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P
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L E

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I
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L I

A L I
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G E A R
48 51

L
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S I

E
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N E

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O L D E

N C H A
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E N N M A I Z E
55

B I L

W N S

H S A N
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U S

M O V E R E

W T H O R
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N G S

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Chatter | 18

What type of
I enjoy the comb, brush and bowl full of mush.

fan are you?

YES

Do you read Idle Chatter?

NO

What do you think youre doing now, Seor Dnial?

YES

NO NO

Uhhh

You are a bibliographically confused Wisebrownian.

I enjoy the rambling intertwination of Christianity & pop culture.

Im indisposed.

YES

YES

NO

NO

I am wealthy.

YES

The bulk of what the Gospels omitted was Jesus cracking wise about robe burn.

I thought this was Erma Bombecks space.

YES

NO

YES

I run a media empire.

The bulk of what the Gospels omitted was Jesus cracking wise about ointments.

Light a match.

NO

YES

NO

I produce online content.

You are Dave Barry.

You are a closet Druid.

NO YES NO NO YES
I will publish your bookified collection of Idle Chatterings.

I am creepy.

YES

You are a latter day saint. (Not a Latter Day Saint.)

You are my new patron.

YES

I am Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.

NO

Your name is Don and you own a sweet conversion van that is, at times, a-rockin.

Hi, mom.

YES

You are my mom.

NO

You are a deacon.

Source: from the mind of Jason Fox (jasonfox.net)

Beth Phillips and Chatter with Kutchi school children in India.

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