Kids and

Students
Summer edition! page 20

At Your Side Beat the

Could you use a LifeLine? page 30
summer
What IF blues
 ips from you all to keep
T
the Church? from going crazy! page 18
 hat IF you were
W
a part this year? page 06

VBS, Mission
trips, canoe
adventures...
Your complete WFC
Summer Calendar! 16

Called
to adopt
WFCnews.com
The Matlocks share their story page 08

Issue 02 summer 2011

 the
toc

pastor note 03 kids 20

What are those papers all about that you get handed every
week? What are my kids going to be up to this summer in the
around westside 04 Reef, Rock and Extreme? Glad you asked.

You were SENT, had a ladies weekend, got dunked and

celebrated the hope of the world rising from the dead! students 23
You’ve been busy.
We have something for every student that walks through
the doors of Westside.
community impact 06
Find out what is going on with What IF the Church and our family minstry team 25
local ministry partners.
That’s right, we are trying this again. There was . . . ummm,
a little number mishap last time. You just can’t find good help
these days.
from the cover
adoption 08
grow 26
Learn about the Matlock family and God’s calling in their lives.

global impact 10 series overview 28

Around the world in Westside style. Some parishes just happen Find out what Dan and the teaching team have up their sleeves.
to be a little further away.

online 29
big events calendar 16

lansing 29
summer fun 18
What are you going to do with those kiddos this summer? Let
fellow Westsiders help you out with a few ideas . . . and a little counseling 30
help from our friend . . . the internet.
More than just pre-marital, we may have a LifeLine with
your name on it. Oh, and we still do have pre-marital if that
happens to be your name.

Hey, if we are doing obvious bald

jokes, what about me?

A quarter mile
at a time John.

02 WFCnews.com summer 2011


Issue 2.
Well, we haven’t been shut down yet.
The magazine made it to issue 2!
Winter has gone and spring has arrived
(we think, right? Is it still snowing?) . . .
summer is right around the corner and
the WFC MAG has all the hot dates, times,
stories and INFO covered right here.
So put away your Snuggie, go out on the hammock
and find out what is happening at your WFC (take the
magazine with you, of course . . . or else you will just
find out more about napping). Submit jokes about
magazine also putting you to sleep on our Facebook wall.
it’s a GOD
THING!!!
Look for this special call out through
the magazine for life transforming
stories of God at work!
What? Beiber? No, I am more
of a Daughtry man myself.
Rock on, brother.
hi i’m ______ , one
of the pastors here
at westside . . .
Welcome to our regular section featuring one of your many
favorite pastor types here at Westside . . . and the chance for
them to write about whatever they so desire (this section not
endorsed by WFC :) Ladies and Gentlemen: John Huber!
Hello my name is John Huber and I serve as the Family
Pastor here at Westside. In June 1991 I started my journey
working at a Youth camp and getting my first taste of
ministry. I worked as a camp counselor with inner city
youth, little did I realize the God would use that moment in
time to shape me twenty years later.
I love the fact that Westside is deeply committed to
children, youth and the family as a whole. As a parent
it’s exciting to watch children grow and discover the love
that Jesus has for each and every one of us. What I have
come to realize over the last twenty years is that we need
each other on this spiritual journey with God. If you were
to map out your child’s life for the next twenty years, how
would you answer the following questions. (sit down with
your spouse or a friend and answer these questions)
1. Name two people who will influence them
greatly? What do you expect of them?
2. Use two words to describe the friends you
would like them to have?
3. What areas of life do you really want them
to succeed in?
4. What activities would you like them to get
involved?
5. Do you think you need other people to support
you in the spiritual journey of your children?
In what ways?
This maybe the first time you have reflected on such
questions. I pose them because I really believe that we
need to become more “pro-active” instead of “re-active”
in the life of our children and families. As we move into
the summer months I want to leave you with three things
to challenge you with.
1. Pray daily with or for your children.
2. Read and Speak God’s word over them daily.
3. Serve with or for your children on a weekly basis.
Smooth.
03
 ar
ound
west
side

Were you SENT?

In the first quarter of 2011,

over 90 folks joined up with
Westside and stepped over
the line into membership.

Did you know that close to a thousand of you

are at the Speedway campus each week?

04 WFCnews.com summer 2011

what’s been happening?
Loving Jesus
becoming like Jesus
Sharing Jesus

In the beginning
was the word...

05
comm
unity
imp
act
“What if the Church?” is an non-denominational, cooperative
effort of more than 50 churches in the Kansas City Metro area
who each ask the question—What would happen if the churches
of our city united in prayer, worship and service to our city?
There are four key components to “What if the Church”:
• MESSAGE SERIES—May 29, June 5 and June 12
• 10 DAYS OF PRAYER—June 2–11
• SERVE Day—Saturday, June 11
• WORSHIP FESTIVAL & GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER—
Sunday, June 12, 4–6 pm, at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park
(Sporting KC’s new stadium at the Legends)
A new partnership in 2011 between “What if the Church” and
“The City-wide Prayer Movement” (CPM) invites Christ-followers
around Kansas City to join in a world-wide prayer movement.
For almost thirty years CPM has led the effort to encourage
Christ-followers to come together to pray for our city through
monthly and weekly prayer gatherings. In 2005 CPM began to
champion the “Global Day of Prayer” (GDP) in Kansas City. GDP
started in 2001 when the churches of Capetown, South Africa
asked the question, “What would happen if the churches of our
city came together for a day of prayer?”
Do you have
your shirt yet?
06 WFCnews.com summer 2011
whatifthechurch.org
Worship Event with
Global Day of Prayer
Sunday, June 12
We are combining these two events and inviting churches
from around the city to join us in two hours of prayer and
worship at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park by the Legends
Outlets, in Kansas City, Kansas. The Worship & Prayer begin
at 4pm. Bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Persons
interested in volunteering for the event can email info@
whatifthechurch.org
Ten Days of Prayer 24/7
June 2 through June 11
Ten days of prayer precedes the GDP. Westsiders will have the
opportunity to fill the calendar 24 hours a day to join in a world-
wide offering of prayer to our God. The Next Steps room at our
Lenexa Campus will be a 24/7 prayer room. Individuals can also
join in prayer on-line. Our mission partners in Thailand, India,
and South Africa will be also be joining us in prayer.
Serve Day
Saturday, June 11
Five thousand volunteers at 150+ work sites around the city
will be impacting tens of thousands of lives on Saturday, June
11 for the “What if the Church” Serve Day. Volunteers can
view and sign-up for opportunities at whatifthechurch.org.
T-shirts will be available for a $10 donation, in the
commons at Lenexa and Speedway during the weeks of
May 29 and June 5. Proceeds go to help with the expenses
of SERVE DAY projects.
What would happen if the churches of our city
united in prayer, worship and service to our city?
Sponsoring an Apartment
for a Homeless Teen
In May 2010 Westside Family Church partnered with Hillcrest
Transitional Housing to open a program to house homeless
teens. Westside’s agreement with Hillcrest was to provide the
first year of funding, ending May 2011. In order to continue
to fund the youth program, Hillcrest has been enlisting
churches, or individuals to become apartment sponsors. Each
sponsor furnishes and funds one apartment at a required
donation of $5,000.
The Hillcrest Youth home has been funded by IMPACT
donations, but in 2011 donations to IMPACT were not enough
to continue funding beyond the first year. However, one small
group has stepped up to allow Westside Family Church to
become an apartment sponsor.
Earlier this year the small group led by Kelsey Allen
(story to right) began volunteering at Hillcrest by helping
decorate an apartment for a homeless teen. Kelsey’s group
raised almost $1,000 on their own to help sponsor an
apartment and gave that money to IMPACT 2011. Thanks to
Kelsey’s group Westside is continuing our funding of Hillcrest’s
Youth Program through an apartment sponsorship. If you’re
interested in volunteering with Hillcrest please check out
myImpact at westsidefamilychurch.com or donate to IMPACT
2011 at wfcimpact.com.
it’s a GOD
THING!!!
lifegroups
leading the way
“Listen” as Kelsey Allen answers questions about how her
LifeGroup became involved with one of our ministry partners
and is making an IMPACT in the community.
How did you get involved in Hillcrest?
A few of us have served at Hillcrest individually through
Westside serve days and then we did two serve days as a
LifeGroup in the fall and late winter.
When did you decide to try to sponsor an apt there?
We had met a group from Westside that was in the process
of transitioning out of the captain “role” and suggested
we take over their apartment temporarily or permanently,
whatever God put on our hearts. From that moment on we
continued to pray that it would work out.
How did you go about raising the money?
A few of us were able to contribute financially while the
others played a vital role through encouragement and
prayer. We then contacted Westside about the possibilities
of fundraising and they were gracious enough to match our
contribution.
Tell us about the work you have already done at
Hillcrest and what you would like to do?
We have done some cleaning, moving furniture in and out
of homes, & painting the exterior porches and trim of a
house. Now that we are sponsoring an apartment we are
eager to get involved in some of the teens’ lives and build
relationships with them.
What do you sense God teaching you in all of this?
Our LifeGroup has talked a lot about the idea of a missional
church and that it is our responsibility as Christ followers
to serve and love our community. If there is something
that God has called us to do he WILL find a way to make it
happen, even if $5,000 stands in your way.
07
comm
unity
imp
act

Our
adoption
journey
it’s a GOD
THING!!!
An Interview with
the Matlock Family
Craig and Sherri Matlock have attended Westside Family
Church for the past seven years, along with their two children
Braxton, 16, and Jordan, 14. In the fall of 2010 they were
called to adopt, making a decision that will change their family
forever. Here is their story . . .
Have you always wanted to adopt?
If not, how did you arrive at your decision?
Sherri: I had been praying and considering adoption for
nearly three years. I had two questions that I was waiting for
God to answer. Where would we adopt from and what children
would we feel a strong connection to. I discussed the idea of
adoption briefly with my sister-in-law, but Craig and I never
really had a serious conversation about it. When Craig and
Braxton returned home from a mission trip to South Africa
in August 2010, we realized God was calling us to open our
hearts and home to more children. God whispered LOUDLY and
we were finally listening.
don’t ignore what
God is putting on
your heart
The answers to my questions were simple. We both felt
a very strong connection and passion toward the orphans in
Africa. By September 2010, we were full-speed ahead with
completing the mountains of adoption paperwork with our
home study agency and our international agency. We officially
went on the “sibling” waiting list with our international agency
on October 28, 2010.
You mentioned that Craig and Braxton when to South
Africa with Westside last year. How did that change
your perspective on orphans and adoption?
Sherri: God has very specific plans for all of us and he
typically does not provide experiences for us without a purpose
in mind. The simple and honest answer to why we chose
international adoption from Africa is that God has called us
there. For our family, this experience was Craig and Braxton’s
mission trip.
Craig: The purpose of our trip was to work with AIDS
orphans in some very poor and remote areas throughout the
South African Cape. We were there to let the children know
that there is a God who sees them, He loves them and He
cares about them; and that we saw them, cared for them, and
loved them.
There are children in need all over the world, including
right here in our home community; we understand that. Our
belief is that we have been called and provided the resources
to adopt internationally and provide a home for children
who have very little hope of having a family without the
assistance of parents willing to adopt internationally.
Our mission trip took us to Africa and we believe God
did that to show us the beauty of the African people and
their heritage and culture in addition to showing us the
loss the African continent is suffering as a result of HIV
and AIDS. Unfortunately, South Africa does not have an
open international adoption program. We were led by some
of our friends living in South Africa to the struggles in
Ethiopia, which are almost identical to those in South Africa.

08 WFCnews.com summer 2011

Fortunately for the orphaned children in Ethiopia, there is
an active international adoption program.
Sherri: As we talked more about the need for adoptive
families after Craig and Braxton returned from their mission
trip to South Africa, we finally had a clear understanding of
what adoption means. Although we, as a family, can’t take
care of every child with needs in the world, we certainly
can open our hearts and home to one, or two, or maybe
three. Through God’s glory and grace, he has provided for
us mentally, spiritually, relationally, and financially to be in a
position to welcome additional children to our family.
been down this road already and have valuable information
to share. It also keeps us focused on God’s plan when we are
frustrated with complications or delays in the process.
What would you share with others who are considering
adoption themselves?
Craig: Sleep, Pray, and TALK! Meaning, don’t rush into a
decision, but also don’t ignore what God is putting on your
heart. Spend time praying about it and seek input, guidance,
and information from others who have adopted.

You said you are waiting to adopt a sibling group,

please explain.
Sherri: There are so many very important things to
consider for each family regarding their adoption options. If
we already have children do we maintain birth order? Should
we consider special needs? What age range? The list goes on.
We spent a lot of time in prayerful consideration and God put
it on our hearts to open our home to a sibling group—with the
goal of providing a home to a group of up to three siblings,
in order to maintain the kids’ family unit as much as we can.
Unfortunately, keeping orphaned children together with their
brothers and sisters can be a difficult process.
Need more Adoption info?
The Matlocks have participated in the If You Were Mine
Adoption Workshop which is offered twice a year and
are regular attendees at the Intercultural Adoption
Network (IAN) which meets the first Thursday of each
month. The Matlocks hope to welcome their new children
home within the next year. Be sure to check online or
watch your weekly bulletin for the next If You Were
Mine Adoption Workshop.

How has Westside’s adoption ministry benefited you?


Craig: We see the Westside adoption ministry as the
embodiment of what it means for us, as Christ followers,
to be living in community with other followers. Adoption, Adoption is super!
whether domestic or international, can be a complicated and
stressful process. The adoption ministry has been a support
to us through the entire process by providing information
and training and connecting us with other families who have

09
 glo
bal
imp
act

around
the world
style
it’s a GOD
THING!!!
A Priest in her Parish off all of her gymnastics skills. One of the other missionaries
knew that I had done gymnastics, so she asked me to come
Ashley Kracht wobbled into her first gymnastics class as a and see. Kimmie showed me some of her tricks, and I started
small child. She back flipped her way through her teen years, and to give her little tips, and spot her on a couple of tricks. Pretty
then became a coach. Gymnastics is her passion. But she never soon there was a long line of kiddos waiting for me. I asked
imagined God would weave that passion into her life’s purpose. Kimmie if we could meet again the next week, so we could do
Ashley’s other love: capturing stories through pictures. She more gymnastics with her and her friends. They were all very
graduated last year with a degree in photography and graphic excited and said they would be there!”
design at K-State, then decided to take a mission trip before The kids were there all right. And they brought more.
embarking on her career. She thought she’d go to India. She The team from found an old piece of carpet to lay over the
has sponsored a child through Compassion International there glass covered pavement. The kids located an old mattress.
since she was 15. God had other plans. Ashley ended up in They folded it in half and use it as a springboard, then they
South Africa with a Westside Family Church partner, Jabulani run up, flip and fearlessly land on another mattress.
Africa Ministries (JAM).
“God made it very apparent that India was not where He
was calling me at this time. I answered His call, and because
of my obedience began the most incredible journey of my life
to South Africa,” says Ashley.
Jeremiah 29:11 is a verse Ashley knows well. “For I know
the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
She leaned on this passage as she looked toward her
uncertain future. “It is one of those infamous verses we’ve all
heard a million times before. But do we ever truly stop and
think about what a beautiful promise our God is making directly
to each and every one of us through this piece of scripture?”
While in South Africa, a leader from JAM told her the staff
had been praying for a person with her photography skills
for some time. In January, Ashley returned as a full time
missionary with JAM in Cape Town, South Africa.
“Every Monday we go to a place called Hout Bay Harbour
to hang out with the kids. A few weeks ago some of the kids
were gathered around a girl named Kimmie as she showed

10 WFCnews.com summer 2011

 Each week more kids come to the
make-shift gym. “I am sore from
spotting for the next couple of days .
. . but it is all worth it,” says Ashley.
“Doing gymnastics with African kids is
just so stinkin’ fun! They are completely
fearless and will try just about anything
. . . which is not always good, especially
when I turn around and there are 6-year
olds showing me how they can back flip
off of 7-foot walls!”
The kids at Hout Bay Harbour were
once hard to reach. The team just
couldn’t find a way to connect with them.
Now, JAM incorporates Bible stories into
the gymnastics lessons. And the kids are
responding.
A year ago, Ashley never thought she
would be spotting back-flips for a group
of extremely vulnerable children on a
beach in Africa.
“God continues to amaze me at
how he can incorporate our passions
into what He has called us to. It is
exhausting, but so much fun and
something I love.”
God is faithful. He fulfilled His promise
and throughout my time in South Africa
was able to calm my heart about my
future long before I was even offered
this position with JAM. Our God knows
us. He knows our hearts. He knows our
passions. And because of this He is able
to grant us the very distinct desires
of our heart when we seek first His
Kingdom. That is when we truly start to
experience life.”
World tour
In January, WFC sponsored an IMPACT
trip to India, South Africa and Thailand.
Matt Adams, WFC’s Community Impact
Pastor, and Reneé Terrill, a One Life Child
Sponsorship program volunteer, was
among the group.
While Matt has traveled internationally,
he had not previously visited one of WFC’s
Global Impact countries. Reneé Terrill,
a member of Lenexa Baptist, is mom to
Morgan who is heading to college, and
Aaron who is a high school senior. Married
I have a heart
for orphans too!
to Kevin for 23 years, Reneé freelances
part-time in graphic design. Her passion
is to be the hands and feet of Jesus to
those who have yet to meet Him . . . she
loves orphans and wants to pour into
the lives of third-world moms who are
trying to raise their children in conditions
that make being a mom challenging and
sometimes impossible.
Rene, prior to this trip, you had only
visited one of our global impact
countries. How did the opportunity
to visit the other countries change
your outlook?
Reneé: The trip showcased the scope
and magnitude of what WFC does within
their Global Impact Ministry. I went
with no pre-conceived ideas, just an
eagerness to put faces to all the names
that had filled the stories I’d heard over
the past couple years. I went on this trip
knowing a little about what WFC does in
these countries. Getting to be a part of
the various ministries was a spectacular
gift. Participating, learning, engaging and
immersing myself was an opportunity I
feel so incredibly blessed to have been
a part of. Even now, months after being
home, my days are filled with thoughts,
memories, burdens, joys and questions
that thread through my day-to-day
activities. My experience has become a
part of who I am.
Did you notice any major differences
between countries or cultures?
Any similarities?
Reneé: Each country had a very
different feel to it. In India, I felt like I
had been transported back to the time
of Christ . . . I imagine that it was not
much different then. No infrastructure,
dusty roads, little villages struggling to
survive. Lepers sitting by the roadside and
bone-thin dogs scavenging for food; cows
walking the streets and mothers hugging
hungry children to their breasts. If I closed
my eyes, I could imagine Jesus walking
this very countryside . . . reaching out to
touch the lepers . . . giving bread to moms
so they could feed their kids and sitting
under a tree listening to villagers share
their hope of a better life.
Thailand was so western I was
surprised. It was much like being in a US
city although once we got into the hills and
met the hill tribe people life slowed down
to a pace that was beautiful to be a part
of. South Africa was a dichotomy—The
wealthy, materialistic cities contrasting
with the “National Geographic” images of
Africa . . . mud houses, pot-bellied children
and mama’s carrying loads twice their
weight on their heads.
Regardless of the differences, there
were several overriding similarities:
• a heavy pervasive darkness.
• poverty, not just economic
but spiritual too.
• children everywhere—
lost, abandoned, abused, discarded,
and used-up.
• strong leaders—leading, loving,
sacrificing, doing and being the
hands and feet of Christ.
Using different adjectives, how
would you describe each of the
countries in one word or phrase.
Reneé:
India: sensory overload
Thailand: dirty secrets
South Africa: hope in the dark
Who did you meet that impacted you
the most? Explain.
Matt: Pastor Ed, Thailand. His walk
with God is profound, and he is having a
great impact on those around him.
Did you have any God moments that
will remain with you forever?
Matt: During our first day in India. I
heard Schaun tell the children openly that
he loved them. At first I pulled back from
expressing love as openly. “I don’t even
know them, how could I say I love them.”
But then God reminded me that He loved
them, and that his love is not conditional,
and I realized that these children are
more than deserving of my love, because
God loves them. It was a decision to love.
Isn’t that what love is anyway?
What was the most heart wrenching
experience you encountered?
Matt: I saw women on the streets of
Thailand who were captives. Prisoners
without bars, but prisoners no less.
What was the most hope-building
experience?
Reneé: It was day 2 in Yalamanchili,
India as we pulled out of the driveway of
New Life Children’s Home with the sound
of their beautiful voices still weaving
sweet images of little hands raised in
Telugu worship to their Father God.
They had rolled up their straw sleeping
mats in the early morning darkness,
rubbed the sleep from their eyes and
gathered with a thin blanket wrapped
11
 glo
bal
imp
act
tightly around their shoulders for warmth.
For thirty minutes these amazing
orphans knelt on a stone cold floor and
worshipped. They finished with the Lord’s
Prayer just as the sun was coming up and
then they spilled out into the yard and
headed to the outdoor taps to sponge-
bath their little bodies with the cold water.
Later as they headed to their
classrooms, we left New Life and headed
to the local Hindu Temple. Turning off
the main road we took a narrow street
towards the temple gates—passing
the crudely built shacks for the temple
slaves and vendors who were selling
goats and chickens to be sacrificed to
their Hindu gods. On this day, as we
reached the Hindu holy ground, the
sun was relentless as the temple music
blared across the killing field with an
eerie, hollow sound. The oppressive heat
beat down on the parched yard and the
animal slaughterers sat on their haunches
watching us from the blood-stained
ground. Crows screeched overhead
waiting for opportunities to swoop in on
freshly slaughtered meat while bone-thin
dogs scavenged among animal scraps . .
. the ground around them covered with
the feathers of a thousand slaughtered
chickens. The young temple girls stood
back, waiting to be hired, their color-
soaked saris, creating a surreal image
of life on a landscape that screamed of
darkness and dying.
I thought back to the beautiful
voices of our children at New Life Home
and I remembered their sweet faces,
their eyes tightly shut, their hands
raised in worship to our Holy God.
Their hearts have found freedom and
a safe place to be and I’m so thankful
that these children will not have to go
to their temples to find hope or offer
up sacrifices to appease the voracious
appetites of the temple gods.
Name three overwhelming emotions
that describe this trip.
Reneé: Despair—walking the red light
district in Chiang Mai / Hindu temple in
Chennai.
Joy—worshipping with the beautiful
children at New Life Home in India, the
precious little hill tribe girls at Grace
House in Pua and with the sweet little
12 WFCnews.com summer 2011
Africans at the soup clubs and at Mama
Gladys’ Door of Hope.
Thankfulness—for open doors, partners
that we can trust, servant leaders, children
that are finding hope in our Father God
and who will eventually turn the tide within
their circles of influence.
How has God changed you as a
result of having gone on WFC’s
“World Tour?”
Matt: I used to think that our work
around the world was separate from our
work in Kansas City. This trip helped me
to see that it is all connected. We do the
same work here are we do in Thailand,
India, and South Africa, and I want to
help our people see that the world is
right here in Kansas City.
Reneé: Awareness of the need.
Awareness of what I have and what
those I met and fell in love with do not
have. God has turned my life upside
down. I go to sleep thinking about
the children in India and I wake up
thinking about little 5-year-old Nam who
was raped by her father. My days are
interrupted with memories filled with joy
and also moments of sadness because
the need is so great. I feel an urgency
to reach the people who’s lives we can
now touch because of our partnerships
in these countries. I feel frustrated at
the lack of funds to accomplish our
goals. I’ve been surprised at my lack of
interest in material things . . . they have
lost their appeal. I no longer get excited
at the prospect of shopping for “stuff”.
The dynamics of my time with God has
shifted. I listen more, I read with my
ear to His word wondering what it is
He is trying to teach me. As I read the
gospels I want to truly discover the heart
of Christ . . . the Jesus who healed the
broken hearted. This trip unveiled my
passion for rescuing these children who’s
lives have been so undeniably broken by
circumstances, poverty and injustice.
What advice would you give to
someone who feels God leading
them to a global impact trip, but
can’t decide which country?
Matt: They are all amazing places
to visit. India’s poverty stands out, and
there are people everywhere. It may be
the place where you will see the most
dramatic contrast to our lifestyle and
one of complete poverty. The children
of India are the most open to our love
and it is the most hospitable country we
visited. The people genuinely want to
serve you.
South Africa has great poverty, and
rich beauty. The disparity between rich
and poor is dramatic there.
Thailand is the most western of all
the countries, and would be the easiest,
from a cultural perspective, to visit. The
spiritual darkness is powerful in Thailand,
but it is more hidden by the beauty of
the people and the country.
Where in the world
is Westside Family
Church?
India
Yelamancili (Visakhapatnam
District): New Life Children’s Home was
established in September 2008 through
partnerships with Nazareth Association
for Social Awareness (NASA-India),
Society for Helpless and Economically
Backwards Areas (SHEBA) and Wells for
Life®. We opened the doors of a vacant
hotel and quickly filled the maximum
capacity of 100 children. Complete
with a kitchen, bathrooms, a make-
shift auditorium, and dorm rooms that
doubled as classrooms, it was an ideal
short-term solution. The only problem:
we found 70 more kids who desperately
needed our help. The hotel was bursting
at the seams by the time we moved to
our permanent site in September 2009.
Last August, a WFC team helped dedicate
the new children’s dormitories. (Include
picture). Today, we provide homes and
an education for 180 children who have
been orphaned, outcast, infected and/
or affected by HIV. The new facility will
house up to 500 children.
Chintalapudi: New Life Children’s
Home in Chintalapudi was founded by Dr.
Christopher Premdas, who grew up as an
“untouchable” in Chintalapudi, India. He
was ostracized and separated from the
 What’sthe
big idea?

Every message series at Westside has a biblical BIG IDEA—a main point to walk away with each Sunday.
These BIG IDEAS are to serve as your daily reminder to live out the life mission of Loving Jesus, Becoming
Like Jesus and Sharing Jesus.

Strengthen your brain muscles by seeing if you remember these.

1. God wants to ___________ 3. I

 f you are a Christ follower
our response ability. My you are a ___________.
response ability is my ability And it is time for you to find
to ___________ like Jesus. your ___________.

2. B
 eing a Christ follower 4. C
 hurch is not a ___________
includes ___________ it is a mission. Jesus’ plan
the hard sayings of Jesus. for changing the world is
the ___________ and that
means you and me!

1. increase, respond; 2. keeping; 3. Priest, Parish 4. destination, church

 glo
bal
imp
act
children in the higher castes during his
school years and knew first-hand the
persecution and suffering the untouchables
faced. He learned from his father’s friend
how to open and operate an orphanage.
It’s no accident that in 2008, he founded
New Life Children’s Home in his home
town. A men’s group at Westside
sponsors the forty children that live there
through OneLife Child Sponsorship.
Tuni: WFC regularly sponsors pastors’
we provide
homes and an
education for
180 children
retreats and conferences, HIV/AIDs
educational conferences, youth retreats
and Bible school activities, women’s
conferences and tent revivals at and
in the surrounding areas of Light of
Love Children’s Home, all of which are
attended by hundreds and sometimes
thousands of people. Although WFC
does not formerly sponsor Light of Love
Children’s Home, our global impact
teams spend meaningful time with the
nearly 500 children who live and attend
school there.
South Africa
Eastern Cape Region: WFC helps
fund 28 Soup Clubs throughout the
region. The clubs provide a daily
meal, encouragement, and spiritual
development to more than 1800 children
infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
Alexandria: Jehovah Jireh House
is the home of Molly and Neels Bam
of South Africa who have opened
their home to abandoned infants and
children. Many children are weekend
visitors to this safe haven and most are
infected with HIV or come from troubled
families. WFC has sponsored these
children through the One Life Child
Sponsorship program since 2007.
Port Elizabeth: Coega Door of
Hope. Child advocate “Mama” Gladys
Panda began bringing vulnerable and
abandoned children into her tiny shack
14 WFCnews.com summer 2011
years ago. Now in a larger home,
WFC helps Mama Gladys care for
30+ children through One Life Child
Sponsorship.
Selini Village in Transkei Region:
Project Samuel is an orphan care center
managed by Mama Christina Hohle. It
includes a preschool, soup club, and
local child sponsorship program and
is the community hub for rural Selini.
WFC helps supports children at Project
Samuel through the OneLife Child
Sponsorship program.
Port Elizabeth: Motherwell
Township. In a town riddled with high
unemployment, HIV/AIDS, alcohol and
drug abuse, Mama Nosake oversees
four soup clubs, a community health
care worker program, and HIV/AIDS
support programs. WFC supports children
through One Life Child Sponsorship.
Thailand
Pua: Grace House is the result of a
shared dream. In 2005 a WFC life group
visited Thailand where they met Saman
and Nok Jantawong. The Jantawongs
dreamed of opening a home to educate
girls from the Hill tribes. The life group
returned to the U.S. with that dream.
Today twenty young girls live at Grace
House, attend the local schools, and
worship at Pua Baptist Church which was
founded by Pastor Saman. WFC’s Thailand
teams accompanied the girls on visits
to their hill tribe homes when the girls
shared the gospel with their parents.
Chiang Mai: Abba House, founded
by Joyce and David Moore from Olathe,
KS, is a safe haven for young girls who
are at risk of being pulled into the sex
trade industry. Thirty girls ages 11 to
early 20’s live and attend school at Abba
House where they are exposed to the
Gospel. They graduate from Abba House
with a degree and skills that afford them
professional opportunities. Since 2007,
WFC has supported the girls at Abba
House through One Life Child sponsorship.
Chiang Mai: New Life Annex, an
extension of Abba House, is a safe
haven for young people rescued from
prostitution in the streets of Chiang Mai.
These young people require intense care.
Ten young men, including a 10 year old
boy, live at New Life Annex while they
attend school and learn life skills. The
young men assist Pastor Ed in a street
outreach ministry at Tai Pei gate, where
they minister weekly to others trapped
in prostitution. WFC has supported the
young people at New Life Annex through
One Life Sponsorship since 2008.
Chiang Mai: New Hope Home is a
refuge for young girls orphaned by HIV/
AIDS. It was established by Pastor Ed
Isara’s wife, Fang. These girls have either
lost parents to AIDS, or are themselves
infected with HIV. Seven children
currently live at New Hope Home. Fang
comforts the grieving children and
teaches them about the love of Jesus.
New Hope Home is our newest ministry
partner in Thailand. WFC supports the
children at New Hope Home through One
Life Sponsorship.
Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Prison.
Pastor Ed started visiting one of the New
Life Annex men in prison in 2009 and
realized the potential impact of Bible
study groups within the prison. In one
year, the study has grown to more than
700 Christ followers. Prison officials are
fascinated by the life change in these
men. Now, other area prisons have
requested this “program”. Three New
Life Annex residents lead Bible studies in
other nearby prisons.
WFC Partners
The One Life Child Sponsorship program,
managed by WFC, partners with Oceans
of Mercy, other organizations, and
individual child sponsors to help care
for approximately 500 children in India,
South Africa, and Thailand. Visit
www.onelifechild.org
Oceans of Mercy, founded in 2002, is
WFC’s non-profit partner in South Africa.
Ocean’s of Mercy is a member of Mercy
Alliance, a collection of churches and
non-profit organizations in the US and
in South Africa that have joined forces
to reach the S.A.’s youth with a message
of hope and love of Jesus. Visit
www.oceansofmercy.com
Wells for Life® provides safe drinking
water to villages and communities
in India through drilling water wells.
Wells for Life® is also engaged in
providing assistance in other areas,

such as medical and HIV/AIDS clinics,
orphanages, homes for the elderly, or
any other area that helps the poor and
disenfranchised within the two-thirds
world. Visit wellsforlife.org
NASA-India and SHEBA are India-
based non-profit organizations founded by
Dr. Christopher Premdas. Dr. Premdas is
a Dalit, an ‘untouchable’ according to the
Indian Caste system. His cause is social
justice and care for the orphaned and
hungry. Dr. Premdas founded SHEBA was
founded specifically to partner with WFC
in Yelamancili where New Life Children’s
Home and for outreach ministries in
the surrounding Visakhapatnam District
while NASA’s ministry is focused on
areas surrounding Tuni and Light of Love
Children’s Home. Visit www.nasaindia.org
it’s a GOD
THING!!!
Interview with Ashley Miller
Ashley, a sophomore at KU, has attended WFC for four years and has taught
a three year old class in the REEF for the majority of those years. At KU, she
is involved in Campus Crusade for Christ and leads a Bible study. Ashley is
currently a nanny of four and is pursuing a career in which she’ll help children
with disabilities.
Can you describe one way that your life has been changed from your trip?
Since Beat the Drum, I know what it means to follow Jesus. In South Africa,
I experienced what life is like when Jesus is in charge. I went to South Africa
planning to help everyone else, but God used everyone else to help me more than
I helped them.

What was the scariest thing you encountered during your trip?
The scariest thing I encountered on the trip was standing up in front of aclass
of 9th graders who only spoke English as a second language and trusting that
God would tell me what to say (and of course . . . He did!).
Is there a particular moment or a particular person from your trip that
when someone mentions South Africa you immediately think of? 

On our last night we were in Lusikisiki and I was trying to take a picture of a
couple of the guys so I could pray for their mission, but I couldn’t get them to
stand still! They wouldn’t stop dancing and laughing long enough for me to take
the picture. When I don’t want to forget to love every moment of life that God
gives me, that moment is what I picture.
What did God teach you through this trip?
During this trip, God taught me that no matter how much I plan and try to
make things work I’m not in control. Every time I would practice the lessons for
the 9th graders and plan exactly what I wanted to say, I didn’t feel like the kids
were interested. Only when I would relax and pray that God would guide me did
the kids listen and really start to understand our message.
15
 wfc
cal
en
dar

may 2011
sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

VBS Planning Day 9am

Get Connected 6:30pm Get Connected 9am

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

2nd Tuesday 6:30pm

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Student Helper
Training 11am
Family Min Volunteer Love & Respect Love & Respect
Appreciation picnic 12pm Marriage Conference Marriage Conference

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Child Dedication

29 30 31

june 2011
sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

1 2 3 4

Foster Adoption Ministry

Family Picnic at SM Park
Get Connected 9am

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

National Drive-In What IF the Church:

Movie Day SERVE DAY

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

NO Lenexa Student MIN

What IF the Church:
WORSHIP EVENT VBS & Backyard Big Apple VBS & Backyard Big Apple VBS & Backyard Big Apple VBS & Backyard Big Apple VBS Celebration 6:30pm

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

HS Mission Trip:
Lead 360: Mission Trip: LA Dream Center
Finding & Engaging Thailand (back June 30) (back July 2)

26 27 28 29 30

NO Speedway Student MIN

16 WFCnews.com summer 2011

july 2011
sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Mission Trip: sOUTH

NO Student MIN AFRICA (back July 18) Father/Son Canoe Trip Father/Son Canoe Trip

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

MS Mission Trip: Chicago

Father/Son Canoe Trip (back July 16) Lead 360: Disciples Made

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Mission Trip:
INDIA (back July 31)

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

National
walk-on-
stilts day Family Canoe Trip Family Canoe Trip

31

Family Canoe Trip

august 2011
sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

1 2 3 4 5 6

SWAT Training: REBELUTION Student

3–5 grade, 9:30am MIN Conference

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Kindergarten
SWAT Training: Transition 10am
Student POOL Party 7–12 grade, 1pm Lead 360: In Step Lead 360: In Step

14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Promotion Sunday
Speedway B3:
Blues, Baptsim, BBQ
Student Parent Night: Lead 360:
INFO mtg SHAPED for IMPACT

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Student Helper
Training 11am AG HALL Speedway:
Student FALL Kick-Off Get Connected 6:30pm Get Connected 6:30pm

28 29 30 31

17
 fam

Are you
ily
mini
stry

ready
for the
Summer?
Summer is almost here! Are you ready? Do you have a and chairs with blankets draped over them, fort-style, throw in
plan to keep those kiddos busy? Entertained? We have a collapsible tube tunnel, and let your intrepid explorer roam!
compilied a short list of summertime activities to get
Hold a Car Wash
you started!
Park your car in the driveway and let your child give it a good
Tea Time
scrub with a pot of water and sponge or with the garden hose.
A tea party just isn’t a tea party without a gaggle of guests Get the whole family involved for added fun!
to enjoy the treats. Let the children take their favorite stuffed
animals to an afternoon picnic on the lawn. Cups, kettles, and Befriend a Firefighter
cupcakes make the perfect spread for a playful day in the shade. Bake cookies (or pick up some ice pops), and deliver them to your
local fire station. The firefighters will appreciate the surprise—and
Hopscotch
your child will meet some heroes, see those awesome trucks up
Get out the colored chalk and help your children draw a huge
close, and learn a lesson about giving to others.
hopscotch path. Add extra fun by trading traditional hopscotch
square shapes for cars, butterflies, fish, and other fun designs. Dance in the Rain

Lawn Flicks
Hang a white sheet on the side of your house or from a
clothesline, and project your movie using a digital projector.
If you don’t have your own, you can rent equipment for the
day or the weekend from projector123.com. Then bring on the
popcorn, pj’s, and pillows for a perfect outdoor movie night.
Finger Paint with Food
Your kid may still think crayons are for eating, but he’s
probably at the right age to “finger paint” with food. This is
a messy one, but yummy! Place your baby in his high chair
and spoon a dollop of yogurt on the tray. You might need to
demonstrate at first, but soon your munchkin will be making
blueberry-colored tracks and swirls. He’ll really eat it up!
Build a Maze
Got an adventure-seeking crawler? Transform your living room
into a baby-proofed labyrinth. Arrange plenty of sofa pillows
Surprise your kids by taking them outside during a gentle
summer shower. Dance around in swimsuits, catch raindrops
in your mouth, and jump in all the puddles.
Creating Obstacle Courses
Build a backyard obstacle course with hula hoops, jump ropes,
even a hose, then time the kids.
Online Crafts
Nurture your little one’s creativity with pretty art projects. For
free inspiration and detailed how-to instructions, check out
these kid-oriented sites: You’ll find classroom-tested activities
from an elementary school art teacher at Art Projects for Kids;
for weekly craft roundups that you can have delivered directly
to your inbox as an e-mail newsletter, visit Kids Craft Weekly;
for a slew of sweet seasonal crafts categorized by children’s
ages at The Crafty Crow; and for an eclectic mix of art, baking,
and science fun for kids, visit The Artful Parent.

18 WFCnews.com summer 2011


Neighborhood Game Night
Designate one evening a week for some friendly multifamily
competition (think kickball, softball, and capture the flag).
Keep things fair by designating a different parent to ref (get
rules for dozens of sports at gameskidsplay.net) and dividing
into new teams each time, like dads and daughters versus
moms and sons.
Factory Tours
Many factories offer tours so kids can see their favorite
products created from start to finish. Get info on visiting more
than 500 factories across the nation from factorytoursusa.com.
Make Some Goop
Mix up a bowl of Oobleck, a mysterious matter that kids can
shape into balls or let ooze from their fingers. Here’s how:
• Pour one cup water into a large mixing bowl.
• Add a few drops of food coloring (any color).
• Slowly stir in two cups of cornstarch (use a spoon at first,
but you may eventually find it’s easier with your hands).
Toy Swap
Invite kids to come over with toys (in good condition) that
they no longer want. Then, let them draw numbers to see who
gets to pick a “new” toy first.
From FACEBOOK: Here are some fellow
Westsider’s thoughts on activities and
things to do around town!
Sandy Bell Chacey
Theater in the park, Hallmarks kaleidoscope, Nelson-
Atkins art museum, corn maze at Pendleton farm, Mahaffie
stagecoach stop, Harry Truman library, Harry Truman
home, Ernie Miller nature park, pow wow at Haskel Indian
nations University, Natural history museum in Lawrence,
Amelia Earhart home in Attchison, moon marble factory,
Overland Park arboretum, Jamesport Amish community.
Rachel Elizabeth
Dude, know what’s free? Summer bike riding! And kids love
that, maybe do a bike “race” up. Turn it into sort of a block
party type shin dig. That’s always fun, with snow cones
yum! And cotton candy? WWI museum is cool too . . .
Union Station is always fun.
Stacey Sprecker
We love deanna rose farm. Science city is great too. We’re
big fans of our neighborhood pool and just a sprinkler
in the yard or slip-n-slide. On a hot day my kids like to
“paint” the driveway with a bucket of water and paint
brush or spray it with a water bottle. It evaporates quickly
so they can keep making new pictures.
Genger Louise White
Fountains at crown center . . . they are always fun to run
through and play . . . plus crown center normally has a
free exhibit for kids. If they are younger local libraries
always have a story time. The one in Bonner springs
always does a craft after the story. You could also have
a kite flying day. We also have two beach fronts . . . one
in Shawnee off of Renner road and one in De Soto. The
Money Museum at Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City is
free and lots of fun! Oh and city market!
19
 kids
The Reef is a fun place designed
especially for young children to
dive into God’s love. We believe
that even our youngest children
can learn about God so we have
age-appropriate classes for
children age 6 weeks to pre-K at all campuses during all
Sunday services.
What do kids do best? Play! That’s why, beginning in our infant
rooms, we use a curriculum that is based on teaching basic Biblical
concepts through play. Our teachers use Bible conversation
and prayer sentences centered around activities that allow
babies and toddlers to explore and discover God’s world in a
safe and loving environment. Leaders interact with children at
various centers and share Bible truths with them through
conversation and play. This is so much more than babysitting!
In addition, three, four and five year olds will gather
together with their leaders for a 10–15 minute group time.
During this time, teachers will use music, Bible verses, prayer,
and interactive games to help kids understand the Bible story
for the week and how it applies to their young lives. A copy
of the story will be sent home on the child’s take home paper
each week for parents to discuss with their kids at home.
What are we learning
in the Reef this summer?
May God Made Families—This month boys and girls will
hear that God made people to live in families. We will learn
that God wants family members to love and care for one
another. We will learn about families in the Bible like Adam
and Eve, Miriam, Timothy, and Joseph.
June Showing Love to God—Our Bible stories this month
will focus on how Ezra, Noah, Elijah, Abram and Moses
showed love to God. As children hear these stories they will
know more clearly what they can do to show love to God as
they learn about Him, do what He says and talk to Him.
July Caring for One Another—Preschoolers will learn
that God loves all people and He wants people to care for
others. Our activities will allow boys and girls to practice
showing love and care. Children will hear that people can
show love by telling about God and Jesus, praying for
others, and asking God to help them.
August I Am Growing—This month preschoolers will
hear that they are growing and learning to do many things,
just as God planned. They will have opportunities to do the
things God wants them and others to do.
20 WFCnews.com summer 2011
Preschool Events—Summer 2011
May 1, Speedway Family Ministry Volunteer Picnic
Our chance to say thanks to the awesome volunteers who
serve in our Family Ministry at Speedway.
May 15, Student Helper Training
11am, Lenexa Campus, Community Room
This time of training is for any student in 6th–12th grades
that would like to serve in a preschool class during weekend
services during the summer. For more information contact
Jennifer Huddleston at 913 890 4202.
May 15, Lenexa Family Ministry Volunteer Picnic
Our chance to say thank you to the hundreds of volunteers
who serve in our Family Ministry each weekend.
May 22, Child Dedication Service
This is a very special service for the parents of babies and
toddlers where parents present themselves, their child, and
their parenting efforts to the Lord. Each family will have a
special time of prayer together as they dedicate their child.
Parents must attend one Child Dedication Preparation Class
prior to participating in the dedication service.
August 13, Kindergarten Transition
10am, Lenexa Campus
This fun event is for all our 5 year olds who are going to start
Kindergarten this fall. Come check out the Rock and see what
fun things we have in store for you next year. Parents, we will
have a special time to share information with you about how
we want to partner with you as your child starts school
August 14, Promotion Day
This is the day all kids age 2 and up move to a new class or
grade. New room assignments will be printed on each child’s
nametag.
August 21, Student Helper Training
11am, Lenexa Campus, Community Room
This time of training is for any student in 6th–12th grades
that would like to serve in a preschool class during weekend
services during the fall. For more information contact Jennifer
Huddleston at 913 890 4202.
k–5th grade mile markers Grade school events
“Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor May 1, New Believer’s Class
with God and men” Luke 2:52 NIV For grades one through five begins. Room 219 at 8:30 a.m.
Register online. The class lasts four Sunday mornings. It will
We want every child to know and understand these cover baptism, Lord’s Supper, what it means to be a church
three things: member, studying the Bible, and prayer.*

I need to make the wise choice (wisdom) May 1, Leader Appreciation Cookout at the Speedway

I can trust God no matter what (faith) May 7, Vacation Bible School Planning Day
I should treat others the way I want to be treated For volunteers, 9–11am Extreme.
(friendship)
May 15, Leader Appreciation Cookout at Lenexa.
All our lessons focus on at least one of the three basic
concept areas from this verse. June 13–17, Vacation Bible School
Registration starts April 3. Register online at church or home.
Grab a cab and get ready for fun around every corner in the
Our Kindergarten–2nd grade
Big Apple Adventure: Where Faith and Life connect.
program (the Rock) encourages
kids to be Radically Obedient August 3, SWAT Training
Christ-like Kids. Children come For grades three through five to serve and lead worship in the
together for a time of worship Rock. 9:30am in the Student Center.
through music and a time of
learning Biblical truths through video media. Following this August 9, SWAT Training
half hour large group portion of the program, the children then For grades seven through twelve to serve and lead worship in
break into smaller groups. During the small group time, the the Extreme. 1pm in the Extreme.
teachers will lead the children to apply the Bible story to their
lives as they build friendships, learn Bible verses, share prayer August 13, Kindergarten Transition
requests, and participate in activities that reinforce the lesson A time for parents to bring their Kindergarteners and learn
for the week. the vision for the Rock, see their Kindergarten rooms, and
Questions? For the Lenexa Campus please contact Judy experience part of what the Kindergarteners will experience in
Dearwester at jdearwester@westsidefamilychurch.com the Rock. 10am in the Student Center.
or at 913 890 4208 and for the Speedway Campus contact
August 14, Promotion Sunday
Amber Masters at amasters@westsidefamilychurch.com
or 913 890 4283. September 4, Church at the Park
Children and adult baptisms
In the eXtreme (3rd–5th grade)
September 18, Family Ministry Leader Rally
kids will experience an hour of
high-energy worship, video media, September 23–24, DX 1
games, team building, Bible stories,
small groups, and prayer. Watch our
kids go EXTREME for CHRIST.
If you would like more information about what goes on
in our classes or about how you could get involved in this
ministry, at the Lenexa Campus please contact Rebecca
Simmons at rsimmons@westsidefamilychurch.com
or 913 890 4207 and for the Speedway Campus contact
Amber Masters at amasters@westsidefamilychurch.com
or 913 890 4283.

21
FAmily Ministry 252 Basic virtues
tips for parents What Grade School Will Be Studying in Spring and Summer:

The Family Ministry at Westside is committed to partnering
with parents in the spiritual growth of their children. Here
are a couple of ways that we strive to assist you:
Take Home Tools: Every age group sends home a
supplement that you can discuss with your child each week.
It will share with you the Bible story, key concepts and action
steps families can take at home to reinforce the lesson.
WFCnews: Check out the Weekly Lessons, Upcoming
Events and great articles posted each week! Subscribe
today at WFCnews.com
how can we get involved in
kids ministry
Looking for a way to get involved in the Kids Ministry at
Westside? Here are a couple of opportunities:
Sunday Service Opportunities: Be an important part in a
child’s life by serving in our Preschool classrooms or check-
in desks. Opportunities for serving are available at both
campuses. Westside will set up and provide all supplies, while
you focus on building relationships with kids and families.
Be a part of the largest volunteer ministry at Westside!
May—Forgiveness
Deciding that someone who has wronged you doesn’t
have to pay. Bible Verse: “Forgive the things you are holding
against one another. Forgive, just as the Lord forgave you.”
Colossians 3:13, NIrV
June—Faith
Trusting in what you can’t see because of what you can
see. Bible Verse, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for
and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1, NIV
July—Perseverance
Refusing to give up when life gets hard. Bible Verse,
“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They
will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow
weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31, NIV
August—Grace
Getting something great that you don’t deserve.
Bible Verse, “God’s grace has saved you because of your faith
in Christ. Your salvation doesn’t come from anything you do.
It is God’s gift.” Ephesians 2:8 NIrV

Weekly Kids’ Ministry Support: Our programs couldn’t

function if it weren’t for the amazing volunteers who
help prepare and set up classrooms each week. These
volunteers assist Kids’ Ministry staff in the preparation and
distribution of materials during the week so that Sunday
programs are a hit!

Lenexa Campus
REEF, Jennifer Huddleston
jhuddleston@westsidefamilychurch.com, 913 890 4202

ROCK, Judy Dearwester

jdearwester@westsidefamilychurch.com, 913 890 4208

EXTREME, Rebecca Simmons

rsimmons@westsidefamilychurch.com or 913 890 4207

Speedway Campus
Rachel Pierce
rpierce@westsidefamilychurch.com, 913 890 4284

Amber Masters
amasters@westsidefamilychurch.com, 913 890 4283

22 WFCnews.com summer 2011

 stud
ents
Student ministry
Summer at the Movies for Lenexa and Speedway
This summer at Westside, our student ministries will discover
what a Biblical Worldview looks like from the environment
of a Movie Theater. The term “worldview” is defined as a
comprehensive set of truth claims that intend to paint a true
picture of reality. In this world driven by media, it is critical
that every teenager knows how to recognize what is true vs.
what is a lie and we will do this by asking the question “What
is really real?” We will strategically walk through 6 different
movies and talk about the worldview that is portrayed in each
movie. We will fire up the popcorn and concessions every
week and have a blast as we explore what it means to have
a Biblical Worldview. It is going to be an exciting series this
summer at WSM.
June 5—Animation Night
June 12—Lenexa; No Student Ministries:
What if the Church? Worship Night
Speedway: Sci-Fi
June 19—Drama Night
June 26—Lenexa; Sci-Fi Night
Speedway; No Student Ministry
(LA Missions Trip)
dear parents
Hi, my name is Aaron Stroman. I have a passion for working
with middle school students. I believe that the middle school
age is the stage of life where a relationship with Jesus can
become extremely personal. Unfortunately, this is also the
stage of life where rebellion and disobedience develops with
the desire to be an independent person. It is my hope to
partner with you to help steer the will and independence of
the developing teenager into a relationship with Jesus that
they can call their own . . . that’s what student ministry is
to me! So please have your child join me on Sunday and
Wednesday nights where middle school students love Jesus,
become like Jesus, and share Jesus.
Aaron stroman
Director of Middle School Student Ministry
July 3—No Student Ministries:
4th of July weekend
July 10—Chick Flick Night
July 17—Bowling: Cost $15
July 24—Sports Night
July 31—Comedy Night
August 6—The Rebelution Conference Tour:
Do Hard Things
August 7—Pool Party at Shawnee:
Soetaert Aquatic Center
August 14—Parent Night: INFO Meeting regarding
the next 12 months of Student Ministry
August 21—Fall Kickoff
At the Speedway: Before each service on Sunday mornings
we will be having a movie screening where the students can
come into the theater and check out the movie that we will be
talking about that morning. The screenings will start at 9am.
Jeff and Shelli Seeger will continue to lead our Wednesday
night LifeGroup in Leavenworth throughout the summer. The
group meets from 6:30p—8:00pm at the Youth Achievement
Center in downtown Leavenworth.
Student Summer Mission Trips
Go Project 2010
The purpose of the Go Project is to engage students in serving
others and making an impact on the world around them. To
goal of every project we are doing is to make a difference
through action. Spaces are still available sign up today!
HS Mission Trip to LA Dream Center
June 25–July 2, 2011
Training dates; May 22 from 5–6pm and June 22, 2011 from
6-8pm in the student center
MS Trip to Chicago July 11-16, 2011
Training dates; May 15, June 5 from 5-6pm and July 6, 2011
from 6-8pm in the student center
23

Rebelution
On Saturday, August 6, 2011 from 9am–5pm at Lenexa
Campus, the Westside Student Ministry will host
The Rebelution (1Timothy 4:12) Conference Tour;
Do Hard Things: A one-day conference tour for christian
teens and their parents. The conference sessions are designed
to motivate young people to rebel against low expectations
and avoid wasting their lives. The teen years aren’t a vacation
from responsibility. They are the training ground for future
leaders who dare to be responsible now. For more information
visit their website: therebelution.com
Early Bird Pricing now thru July 2, $30 per person
Pre-Registration pricing, July 3 thru July 23, $35 per person
Standard Pricing July 24, thru August 6, $40 per person
To register visit therebelution.com/conference/register
or pick-up registration forms at the information desk at your
church campus to mail in.
You say you want
a Rebelution?
24 WFCnews.com summer 2011
it’s a GOD
THING!!!
Take a moment to hear from one of our own home
grown students and get their perspective of Student
life at Westside.
I entered student ministries the summer before I started
seventh grade. We met in the Venue on Monticello Road
on Wednesday nights and I remember long days at Camp
Surge and the insanity of the all-night rager!
Now we have our own room with a stage, high-tech
equipment and plenty of students and volunteers. My friends
and myself are trusted to lead other students in worship and
we are challenged to be examples for them. Additionally, we
take shorter retreats to Arkansas and the Hyatt to realign
ourselves with God in the midst of a busy year. We have
the opportunity to go on affordable missions trips and we’re
offered many chances to engage in local missions. All of this
growth in the past couple years has made me confident in
the leaders we have and where the ministry is going.
The greatest impact on my time in student ministries has
most certainly been from the worship band. I joined in eighth
grade and at first I just played keyboards, but was kindly
forced into singing by the end of the year. My closest friends
have shared so many of my favorite memories with me in the
student center and in theatre six at the Legends. I’ve learned
how to have patience with myself, other musicians, and
different types of people; I’ve learned how to get rid of my
own pride for the sake of something greater than myself.
I have been blessed to go on missions trips for the past
three summers. My first trip was to Mexico—a demanding
but completely fulfilling experience in the poverty-stricken
town of Croc. I practiced speaking Spanish with some
very patient kids and found out I am not meant to build
houses. One night, our entire group sat on the roof of the
Youthfront base we were staying at, and we sang “God of
this City” in the dark with only an acoustic guitar. To this
day, I cannot name a better worship experience. Though I
enjoy contemporary worship music and all the talents of the
musicians at our church, there was something absolutely
chilling and satisfying about stripping it all away and
hearing only our voices with a humble, quiet guitar guiding
us. For me, that entire trip was a classic case of learning
to take nothing for granted. That feeling of appreciation
echoed through the night and stays with me to this day, and
it encompasses everything I’ve learned in the last six years
at Westside.
I can only hope that other students take every
opportunity that our ministry offers so they can have
half as great an experience as I did.
Miranda Wagner
Family Ministry
Leadership team

Don’t worry, your Kids and

Students are in great hands!

2 3
1

6 7
5
4

11
10
8

13 16
15 19
21
12
18 20
14 17

family Grade School team

1. John Huber, Pastor, Family Ministry
2. Jacie Gunter, Associate Director, Family Ministry
3. Sarah Barnes, Associate Director, Family Ministry
PreSchool team
4. Jennifer Huddleston, Kids’ Ministry Director, Preschool
5. Donna Fulton, Preschool Assistant
6. Debbie Adams, Preschool Curriculum Leader
7. Melissa Mendez, Baby Ministry Team Leader
8. Emily Presley, Ones & Twos Team Leader
9. Donna Witters, Threes-Pre-K Team Leader
10. Debbie Donaghy, Childcare Coordinator
11. Rachel Pierce, Speedway Preschool Coordinator
12. Judy Dearwester, Grade School Director (K–2nd grade, ROCK)
13. Erin English, Team Leader (K–2nd grade, ROCK)
14. Nancy Baker, Ministry Support (ROCK)
15. Rebecca Simmons, Grade School Director
(3rd–5th grade, EXTREME)
16. Melissa Hingula, Team Leader (3rd–5th grade, EXTREME)
17. Amber Masters, Speedway Grade School Coordinator
student team
18. Scott Courtney, Student Ministry Pastor/High School Director
19. Amber Pistole, Student Ministry Associate Director
20. Matt Kelley, Speedway Student Director
21. Aaron Stroman, Lenexa Middle School Director

To contact any of the above call 913 422 8257 or use our
“contact us” form online: westsidefamilychurch.com

25
grow

shape’d
for impact
I have the best job at Westside—PERIOD. What makes
being GROW pastor so great? I get the privilege of God showed up at our front door tonight . . .
encouraging and empowering every member of Westside with cookies! Well, not really but He is moving in our
to move from being a seeker to becoming a reproducing “parish.” With the recent SENT series, Mike and I
follower of Jesus. realized that we know 2 out of the 19 families that live
I get to work with our Get Grounded leaders that provide in our cal-de-sac. So for Easter, our 4 year old daughter
seekers a safe place to examine the claims of Jesus. I get to created flower baskets with her favorite paper and
hear stories of those seekers becoming believers through that stickers for each of . . . our 19 neighbors. As we were
experience. I get to work with the Get Charged leaders that placing each basket on our neighbors’ doors on Easter
walk these new believers through the basics of living fully morning, she looked at me and said, “Mommy, God is
alive with Jesus. Perhaps my greatest joy is leading serious smiling.” Long story short—not 3 days later, we received
followers of Jesus into the amazing realm of learning to lead a very special thank you note and 1 of our neighbors
others on the journey of faith. I get to watch God change lives arrived at our doorstep with cookies, introducing
that change lives! themselves and opening a door to creating a closer
community on our street. GO GOD! Next steps . . .
I have the best planning a block party for Memorial Day and excitedly
awaiting how God will show up next.
job at Westside . . . Christine Nivens Johnson
from FACEBOOK
PERIOD.
One example of this is my friend Paul. Paul is a young man
I met at a wedding last September. Paul has been a Westsider
for several years but wasn’t really connected and growing.
I invited Paul to the LifeGroup I led last fall. He and his wife
joined us in that experience and began to grow in their faith.
The current leader of that group identified Paul as a potential
leader and invited him to be a part of Disciples Made, a pilot
discipleship program I started. Paul has taken huge strides
in his development in the first four months of this one-year
commitment. Paul is now leading his own Get Charged group
and has already begun to invest in a young leader from that
group! Eight months ago Paul was simply a believer. He is now
a serious follower of Jesus and is leading other believers in
their own pursuit of Jesus.
Like I said, I have the best job at Westside—PERIOD!

26 WFCnews.com summer 2011

 all access.
all the time.

get westside news and information, stories,

recent messages, dates and more wherever you are.
all for one low price: free
westsidefamilychurch.com | WFCnews Magazine | iPhone & Android app | WFCnews
 up
com
ing
ser
ies

You won’t
want to miss...
You know Westside always has something up its sleeve Big Idea for this series: The Bible speaks at three levels:
for the weekends, and this Summer is no different. Yes, direct teaching, principle application, and example. We
you will be on vacation, but remember you can always need to learn to use all three in our lives.
catch us online. Here is what is coming up in the next
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for.
few months . . .
Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and
the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks,
THIS OLD HOME receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who
(Love, Respect, Honor, Peace) knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7–8 (NLT)

Family is the most wonderful awful experience in life. When it

is done right—it rocks! When it is done poorly—it hurts! Home
works best when we follow God’ plan for the family.
Big Idea for this series: God wants to build our homes
into a display case for His love and grace.
“God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be
called the children of God.” Matthew 5:9 (NLT)
life apps
(applications from the book of James)
The wisdom book of the Old Testament is clearly Proverbs,
Many Christ followers are surprised to learn that the wisdom
book of the New Testament is James. This short book is full of
everyday wisdom and practices for the Christ Follower.

Big Idea for this series: Following Christ is not easy—

CALLED (What If the Church?) but is is simple when you stick to the basics.
“I will give you words and wisdom that none of your
Our “What If The Church?” partners are Restore Community
adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.”
Church and New City Church. The New Testament word for
Luke 21:15–16
church is “ecclesia” and it literally means “the called ones.”
If we are Christ followers, there is a calling in our lives.

Big Idea for this series: God wants us to understand His COW TIPPING
calling in our lives. (Choosing truth over tradition)
“So go and make followers of all people in the world. It’s All About Me Moo.
Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and
the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything that I have It’s All About the Traditions
taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the
It’s All About the Believer
end of this age.” Matthew 28:19–20 (NCV)
It’s All About the Word vs
It’s All About the Music
YOU ASKED FOR IT Reloaded
It’s All About the Building
Did you ever say “I wonder what the Bible says about that?”
Church in the Park
Seems like there are some questions that are rarely or never
addressed. This is round two of “YOU ASKED FOR IT” and
these two weeks should be a blast.

YAFI is back!!!

28 WFCnews.com summer 2011

 on lan
line sing

it’s a GOD
THING!!!
senior from the
moment... inside...
A few weeks ago I went to go visit a regular attender of the Below is a letter from Lansing inmate, Brian Kinney to John
Online Campus service because I heard about how one particular Ocker, Westside’s Pastor up at Lansing. God has done amazing
Westsider is being a priest in her parish and I wanted to meet things in the life of this man and his family. Brian is but one
her. I found myself in a place in Lenexa I’ve never been before: life that has been transformed by the partnership of WFC/IFI.
Delmar Gardens Assisted Living:
I met Alesa there who introduced me to her mom, Doris,
the priest of this parish. Doris told me her story.
It all started with wanting to see her daughter, Alesa,
sing in the Vocal Team one Sunday when the idea came that
Doris could attend the service online and experience Westside
without leaving the assisted living. That Sunday, Doris got on
the computer in the common area and watched her daughter
sing while her granddaughter Amy worked the slides on
the Online Campus (BTW, 3 generations going to church
together online, \/\/007!!!). She heard noises behind her,
turned around and saw 5 friends looking over her shoulder. In
minutes there was the first service of Westside Family Church
“Delmar Gardens Campus!!!” Doris and her friends decided
they would do this every Sunday.
Today, Doris prays daily with folks who pass by and ask
right in her room and on Sundays, gets together 15–20 people
to huddle around a 15 inch monitor to be the church online.
There are even care givers from Delmar Gardens who are now
going to the Lenexa Campus from what they’ve seen in Doris
and online!!!
We’re working on getting the the Online Campus on the
Big Screen TV in the activity room because Westside Delmar
Gardens just doesn’t fit in the computer room anymore!!!
Forget the robe, you can be a priest with an oxygen
tank and a wheel chair!!!

it’s a GOD
THING!!!

29
coun
sel
ing
throw me a line
LifeLines function as “support groups” at WFC,
and each group is designed and set-up to foster
and maintain total CONFIDENTIALITY.
Victory Over Sexual Abuse [VOSA]—WOMEN
This LifeLine meets weekly on Sunday’s at 8:00 am at the
Lenexa Campus to learn what it means as a WOMEN to be
“fearfully and wonderfully made”, to have “youth renewed
like the eagle”, to be “set free” by the truth, and to “be
angry yet not sin”. Through VOSA, we learn that Father God
promises and provides all this and more. In coming to know
and experience God as Father, VOSA members find the hope,
healing, wholeness and peace they long for. As survivors of
sexual abuse, we are often unable to know and experience
God as a loving and perfect Father, because we view the world
and relationships through the lens of sexual abuse. We do not
trust! We are suspicious! We are anxious! We are angry! We
are hurt! We are isolated! We’ve been failed by trusted people,
and because of these failures, we are hesitant to trust God and
are often even angry at God. Individual ‘goal setting’ is very
much a part of this group—goals such as: “moving out from
under the pain”, “feeling emotion again”, “learning how to be
in relationships with others”, and sometimes even “becoming
freed of addiction.” For some of the group, the most profound
goal ever set is “to experience God as Father” [these five
words really sum up what recovery is all about]. To find out
more information on this group call Jodi at 913 890 4246.
WFC
30 WFCnews.com summer 2011
CrossRoads4Change—WOMEN
This LifeLine meets weekly on Saturday’s at 4:00 pm at
Lenexa Campus to work on spiritual steps for overcoming
addictions of alcohol and substance abuse related to WOMEN.
If you feel out of control and your addiction has become your
master, this group is for you. There is also an opportunity for
the participants to give of themselves by encouraging and
supporting newcomers to the group. If you’re looking for
change, and want loving help and direction, please call Jodi at
913 890 4246.
Crossroads4Change—MEN
This LifeLine meets weekly on Tuesday’s at 7:00 pm at
the Ag Hall of Fame to work on spiritual steps for overcoming
addictions of alcohol and substance abuse related to MEN. If
you feel out of control and your addiction has become your
master, this group is for you. There is also an opportunity for
the participants to give of themselves by encouraging and
supporting newcomers to the group. If you’re looking for
change, and want loving help and direction, please call Jodi at
913 890 4246.
Blessings of Obedience—WOMEN
This LifeLine meets weekly on Thursday’s at 7:00 pm at
the Lenexa Campus in Room 218; it’s designed for any and all
WOMEN struggling with compulsive overeating. Does it seem
as if food has gotten control of you? Does food call your name
and you seem powerless to answer its call? Please consider
joining us as we witness lives being changed and brought
back under God’s authority—knowing that HE is our only hope
of true transformation. To find out more information on this
group call Jodi at 890 4246.
NG
SELI
COUN
Peacemakers 4Kids—Children (K-5th grade)
This LifeLine meets on Sunday mornings at the Lenexa
campus and is designed for children, K-5. Our kids today face
conflict on a daily basis, whether it’s from siblings or social
peers – it’s there! What’s really great to know is that God
has provided the tools to help kids understand and learn to
WESTSIDE
resolve these situations. PeaceMakers4Kids is a course that
helps lay the foundation for lifelong skills in conflict resolution.
The curriculum helps kids recognize conflict, good and bad
choices and where God is in all of it. This support group comes
CANOE TRIPS
alongside of today’s parents to help them lay the biblical
groundwork in resolving conflict. In today’s world, we need
“peace” MAKERS more than ever! To find out more information
on this group, call Jodi at 913 890 4246.
THIS SUMMER
Pre-Marital Counseling [PMC]—ENGAGED COUPLES Father/son July 8–10
This LifeLine meets for eleven weeks on Tuesday’s at 6:30
pm at the Lenexa Campus to help establish a biblical foundation
Family July 29–31
for engaged couples heading to the altar for the sharing of
those sacred words “I DO.” The PMC curriculum consists of
five sessions covering critical topics such as Communications,
watch for more info
Biblical BluePrints, Conflict Resolution, Five Love Languages/
Emotional Needs and Understanding Your Finances. In addition
to your class time, each engaged couple will spend intentional
time with a Marriage Mentor Couple that is assigned to them—
the mentor couple is there to help the engaged couple process
the class materials and make application to their soon-to-be
married life! Cost for this program is $50.00, which includes
taking an on-line survey called Prepare and Enrich. The next
scheduled class will begin sometime in June—to enroll or get
additional information, please contact Jodi at 913 890 4246.

Pre-Marital worked for us!

31
Westside Family Church
NONPROFIT ORG
8500 woodsonia dr U S POSTAGE
lenexa ks 66227 PAID
SHAWNEE MISSION KS
PERMIT NO 963

DATED MATERIAL

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

VBS is here!!!
June 13–17, from 9–11:45AM
at the Lenexa Campus
register online at
westsidefamilychurch.com/vbs
registration closes June 1