We hope you feel welcomed and right at home in your brief time at Fairfield so far. Often times the initial comments you hear from people are, “It’s overwhelming at first” or “Where do I begin?” If this is where you find yourself currently or if you’ve been coming for a while, but haven’t found a place to connect – you’re at the right place! Starting Point is a four week class that meets once a quarter on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am in Room 402, which is located just inside entrance B. During our time together, we will discuss the following weekly topics:

• An overview of Fairfield Christian Church
• Essential beliefs of an evangelical church
• What are the core beliefs of our church?
• What does it mean to grow in Christ?

For questions or to register for an upcoming class please contact
Teresa Sullivan or call 740.654.0099.

Are you new to Fairfield and looking for one of the quickest and easiest ways to find out about the church? Then sign up for Pizza with the Pastors and we’ll even throw in some free pizza and pop on us! Pizza with the Pastors is offered once a quarter for all the new people in the life of the church. Come and enjoy an informal time with some of the Pastors where you can ask questions about the church and begin finding out what we are all about.

Pizza with the Pastors is offered quarterly in Room 402, located just inside entrance B.

Contact Teresa Sullivan or call 740.654.0099 today to register!

Are you looking for a place where you can learn more about the basics of the Christian faith? What about a place where you could invite someone who is really unsure what they think about God, Jesus or the Bible? What if the same place could also serve as an extremely informative course for new Christians or others looking to brush up on the basics? Well, look no further, The Alpha Course is it!

What is the meaning of life? What happens when we die? What relevance does Jesus have for our lives? How do we deal with guilt? These are just a sampling of the questions that Alpha will explore.

• Anyone interested in finding out more about the Christian faith. Adults of all ages are welcome.
• Learning and laughter. It is possible to learn about the Christian faith and to have fun at the same time.
• People meeting together. An opportunity to get to know others and make new friends.
• Helping one another. The small groups give you a chance to discuss issues raised during the talks.
• Ask anything. Alpha is a place where no question is seen as too simple or too hostile.

• Who is Jesus?
• Why did Jesus Die?
• Why and How Do I Pray?
• Why and How Should I Read the Bible?
• Who is the Holy Spirit?
• How can I Resist Evil?
• Why and How Should I Tell Others?
• Does God Heal Today?
• What about the Church?

Before each talk, a free dinner, along with plenty of tea and coffee, will be served. After each talk, there will be a small group time where you can ask any sort of question or just sit back and take in the discussion.

If you or others you know might be interested in checking out The Alpha Course, please R.S.V.P. in advance with Teresa Sullivan or call 740.654.0099.

Adult Bible Fellowships or ABF’s for short are small groups of people that meet on Sunday mornings at 8:00, 9:00 or 10:30 AM for the purpose of Bible study, prayer and fellowship. Many ABF’s also get together outside of class for meals, recreation and just plain fun!

There are a wide variety of ABF’s to choose from. Here are some things to think about when trying to choose an ABF that is right for you:

• Teaching style – some ABF’s are more discussion oriented while others tend more toward a lecture style.
• Content – some ABF’s prefer more of an expository or verse-by-verse study of different books of the Bible, while others follow more of a topical approach to studying Scripture and others use of variety of approaches.
• Make-up of the class – ABF’s can be fairly specific in age range or type of class, such as couples or single adults; while others have a wide age range or a mixed group that attend.
• Outside activities - there are ABF’s that spend a good deal of time building relationships outside of class, and there are others that put more of a focus on their time together on Sunday mornings.

If you have any questions about what ABF might be a good fit for you please contact Small Groups Pastor Todd Smeltzer or Adult Education Pastor Mark Barbee. They can also be reached at 740.654.0099.

Teacher: Ken Darling
Room 420

This is an over 60 class. These folks know how to have fun as well as teach God’s word. They show people many new horizons beyond the age of 60. This class serves in various ministries throughout the church. The class believes that “All Scripture is God –breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” II Tim. 3:16

Teacher: Ken Brooks & Tom Johnson
Room 510

This is an active class of senior adults and empty nesters. Ken Brooks is an engineer who teaches on a variety of topics from Bible prophecy to book studies.

Teacher: Warren MacKenzie
Room 427

This is an active class of senior adults and empty nesters. Ken Brooks is an engineer who teaches on a variety of topics from Bible prophecy to book studies.

Teacher: Phil Peters
Room 516

The Bereans class studies are Spirit-led, focusing on cultivating the character of Christ in members lives, so as to impact our world for Christ in a culturally relevant way.

Search the Scriptures with this class to become more grounded in your faith. This class features lots of discussion and input from a group of middle and young adults.

Teacher: Mark Barbee & Sean Frazier
Room 515

This class is for couples in their 20’s & 30’s who want to learn the skills of communication and temperaments; to make the adjustments that marriage requires and to guard against common pitfalls. We cover topics of interest to couples with young children. We have studied Love and Respect, Parenting, Books of the New Testament, and Jewish Roots of Our Faith. The class features lively discussion with good coffee and refreshments. There are regular social activities throughout the year for the couples if they want to attend.

Teacher: Calvin Green & Bruce Hein
Room 510

This class is geared toward those who are looking for an in-depth Bible Study. The class is designed to be a verse-by-verse study of a particular book of the Bible. We believe that the Bible is applicable to everyday living.

Teacher: Bill Hines
Room 420

This is a class of various ages and interests. One theme that ties them together is “Defending the Word of God.” The Defenders ABF is oriented to open class discussions on the scriptures currently under study. In Bible study, emphasis is placed on knowing Jesus as your personal savior and friend.

Other class activities on Sunday morning might include sharing testimonies, giving God praise, prayers for urgent needs, plus other surprises planned by the Holy Spirit. The Defender’s activities include meeting together for lunch on Sundays, women’s and men’s mid-week get-togethers and special planned events.

Teacher: David Bailey
Room 509

This group of young families shares the ups and downs of modern life and raising children of God in an unholy society. The class studies a variety of Bible topics like the Kingdom of God and Worship.

Teacher: Darin Hanks & Dana Rowland
Room 513

The How and Why class studies:

• HOW to live a life that is pleasing to God
• WHY we believe what we believe

Proverbs 2:1
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Teacher: Tim Leist
Room 508

In this class, you can learn about the example of Christ and grow deeper in your faith by following His example. We’ll discuss topics such as patience and self-control. Anyone is welcome, so please stop by!

Teacher: Dr. Steve Miller & Doug Cronin
Room 424

The Lamplighters class is a diverse and harmonious group of singles, marrieds, widows and widowers ranging in age from 25 to 73. We have a structured weekly lesson with voluntary active participation—whether it be an expository or topical study, we value together gaining an understanding and an application of God’s word in our lives—aided by an invitation to the working of the Holy Spirit.

Teacher: Rob & Sarah Coe
Room 522

Is there something missing in your life? Come and find JESUS with us, as we study His Word. You’ll be encouraged and uplifted by those who love the Lord, and HIS friendly presence. You’re sure to enjoy open discussion while we learn about Christ. We would love to meet you and so would Jesus!

Teacher: Tom Alexander, Rocky Robbins, Scott & Sue Johnson, Mark Bunton
Room 512

Maranatha “Lord, come quickly!” is from the Greek and is used in worship. We teach a variety of topics in the Maranatha class and anyone is welcome to join us.

Teacher: Toby Rapp & Maxine Charlton
Room 506

The Apostle Paul made very clear the great message of Romans: The love of God toward the lost sinner and how He brings them into the family of God and makes them sons of God, all because of the finished work of Calvary.

“The Riches of Romans” in the book of Romans has the power to ground the believer in the faith. You are invited to come and join us on this wonderful journey as we follow in the steps of the Apostle Paul and find the hidden truths of this “great jewel.”

Teacher: Ed Reck & Rod Harris
Room 506

The Radicals class members represent a range of adult ages who study and discuss topical subjects such as “The Holy Spirit,” and “How to Know the Will of God,” along with in-depth studies of various books of the Bible.

Teacher: Harry Lee & Charlie Black
Room 516

The Advocates is a class of various ages and backgrounds. The Advocates is primarily a verse-by-verse Bible study class. Basic Bible teaching and discussion are featured regularly in this class.

Teacher: Don Redwine
Room 420

Get into the Bible with us and examine the scripture on a verse-by-verse study. We are a class of multiple ages. We have married and single class members. We have a great amount of discussion. Our main goal is to have a deeper and richer walk with Christ. We look after each other and pray for each other daily. There is much humor and joy in the class. We invite all to come and share in this great experience of learning and growing in Christ.

Teacher: Bill Lavely & David Kerns
Room 424

This 70s-plus class includes many faithful Senior Saints who are still active in serving the Lord. They enjoy having regular luncheons and are known for their vitality and sweet spirit that come from years of serving the Lord. They are active prayer warriors covering the activities and ministries of the church.

Teacher: Tim McClellan & Willie Downs
Room 510

“Life is a Journey!” God has given us charts and maps that are found in God’s word, the Bible. Through careful study of God’s word, the Navigators seek out the solutions for life’s challenges. If you enjoy studying the Bible as well as relevant themes for today, then you won’t want to miss the Navigator experience.

Teacher: Dave Bishop & Patricia Schindler
Room 512

Life breaks all of us; then some of us become strong in those broken places. Various topics are discussed in the New Beginnings class, such as:

• Healing the damage caused by sudden storms
• Are you a Jonah or a Job?
• Bitter or better?
• God never wastes his object lessons... you!

Teacher: Ken Brooks
Room 506

Paul's epistle to the Romans has been described as the epistle that changes people, churches and nations. All great revivals in history have centered around the book of Romans. Martin Luther wrote that "the Epistle to the Romans can never be too much or too well read or studied; and the more it is handled, the more precious it becomes, and the better it tastes." The study of Romans will take approximately one and a half years to complete. It starts in April 2008, but you are welcome to join the class at any time.

Teacher: Debbie Baker
Room 509

This Sunday morning class is for women who desire to study God’s word and learn to apply His truths to their lives. God has revealed Himself to us through His word and we must dig into it to get to know our awesome Savior and Lord.

“Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, my joy and my delight!” Psalm 43:3, 4

Teacher: Various leaders
Room 515

DVD Series by Drs. Les & Leslie Parrott for: Seriously dating/Pre-engaged, Engaged, Previously married, and Married couples

• Topics covered include
• Can You Identify Your Love Style?
• Can You Say What You Mean and Understand What You Hear?
• Do You Know How to Fight a Good Fight?
• Are You and Your Partner Soul Mates?
• Plus For Second Marriages:
• Are You Ready To Get Married Again?
• Do You Know How To Blend A Family?

This 8 week class (10 weeks for second marriages) starts over every couple of months. Join us anytime and take the classes you missed the next time it’s offered. Contact Terry Horn with questions or call 740-468-3532.

Home groups are small groups of people that meet in various homes throughout the week all over Fairfield County and beyond. Home groups offer folks an opportunity to come together in a relaxed environment to study God’s Word and build life-giving relationships with other people. They are perfect for those who might find themselves going to a worship service and serving in a ministry on Sunday mornings.

Others have commented on how they enjoy the sense of community that is forged by getting together in someone’s living room. Home Groups typically meet for a couple of hours or so in the evening, which allows for plenty of time for study, discussion and simply hanging out to get to know one another better.

To find the Home Group that is right for you click on the link below to search through the entire list or by specific topics

If you have any questions about what Home Group might be a good fit for you please contact Small Groups Pastor
Todd Smeltzer or call 740.654.0099.

One of our main goals at Fairfield is to make disciples! This can take place in the following ways:

• Connecting with an ABF, a Home Group or both
• Individualized mentoring in gender specific groups of two, three or four
• Involvement in midweek classes

Most midweek classes take place on Wednesday nights between Labor Day and Memorial Day. There are also short-term classes and support groups that can meet on other days of the week as well.

There are typically midweek classes on topics such as books of the Bible, New Testament or Old Testament overviews, finances, Divorce Care, etc. Each class typically ranges between eight to twelve weeks in length.

If you have any questions about any of the Midweek Classes please contact Teresa Sullivan or call 740.654.0099.

7:00 to 8:15 p.m. Children’s programs are also available during this time.

Teacher: Todd Smeltzer
Connections Café

A 10-week practical introduction to the Christian Faith covering topics such as: Christianity: Boring, Untrue and Irrelevant? How can I be sure of my faith? What does the Holy Spirit do? Why did Jesus die? What about the church?

Each evening begins with dinner, followed by a large group presentation, then small group discussion. Fee for book. 6:30-9:00 Participants will need to make arrangements for childcare after 8:15. Your children are welcome to join you for the meal at 6:30.

Teacher: Lori Williams
Room 507

American Sign Language is for beginners to the highly skilled. This course will teach Deaf culture, manual alphabet, conversational sign and praise songs. Lori has taught this course at the church for the past seven years. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, she taught American Sign Language at Pickerington High School.

Teacher: Mark Barbee
Room 515

Join Pastor Mark for a study of the triune Godhead and how we relate to Him in each personality. “In His Presence” will last 12 weeks.

Teacher: Ken Brooks
Room 510

Jeremiah was faithful to God’s call despite the persecution that he suffered. Jeremiah showed great compassion for his people even though they mistreated him. He was open and honest with God regarding his feelings. He fearlessly confronted God’s people about their sins. Come learn more about the “weeping prophet” who shows us that no matter how great our sin, God still loves us and desires our redemption.

Teacher: Tom Alexander
Room 421

Come and be a part of the fun as we worship in song each week. We hope that you will join Pastor Tom as he directs choir for the 2008 – 2009 season. We are excited about the new year and we look forward to singing with you! Any questions, contact Susan Luby at 654-3866, ext. 255.

Teacher: Pat Sain
Chapel

Can you read a little music? Do you love the Lord? Would you like to be part of a team that lifts up music to our Lord Jesus Christ by the playing of bells? The Bell Choir may be just what you are looking for! We praise Jesus through our music. We practice on Wednesdays from 5:45-6:45, September through May.

Teacher: Toby Rapp
Every other Thursday, Room 510

C.T.E. is a teaching ministry rooted in God’s Word with an emphasis on women’s issues. We are dedicated to helping women of all walks of life to become all God created them to be. Our focus is on helping women grow and mature in the Word and their relationship with the Lord.

Toby generally teaches every other Thursday. Her classes are taught from the Word of God with great enthusiasm and passion. There is prayer and ministry available to the women after class. Toby also offers one-on-one counseling as her schedule allows between frequent trips to the foreign field.

For more information, contact: Toby Rapp at 740/862-2052. This Bible Study is open to all teens and women of Fairfield and surrounding communities.

Teacher: Stacie Blankenship
Thursdays, Room 523

Divorce Care is a weekly seminar and support group for people who are separated or divorced. It's a place where you can be around people who understand what you are feeling and where you can hear valuable information about ways to heal from the hurt of divorce.

Topics include:

• What’s happening to me?
• The road to healing
• Anger, depression and loneliness
• Financial survival
• What does the owner’s manual say?
• New relationships
• Kidcare
• Forgiveness
• Moving on

This 13-week class starts September 4, 6:00-8:00 p.m. The workbook is $13. Visit www.divorcecare.com for more information or call 740/654-3866, ext 275 to sign up. Pre-registration is requested but not required.