WINTER/SPRING SEMESTERJanuary 6 – April 27, 2013

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Bible - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1

Children - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3

Creative Arts- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4

Fellowship - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6

Helps - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7

Homeschooling - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10

Hospitality - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10

Leadership - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11

Marriage - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12

Men - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12

Outreach - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13

Prayer - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13

Seniors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14

Spiritual Growth - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14

Support - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 15

Women- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 16

Young Adults - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 17

Youth - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 17

Index of Groups by Day - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 19

Dear Riverside family and friends,

Other than your parents, who has been instrumental in shaping the course of your life? I can think of only a very select few whom God has used to IMPACT the direction of my life – a teacher, a couple friends and a pastor. Come to think of it, they have all been people who were part of my life for a very short time.

A small rudder steers a huge ship, and the brief impact of the right person can be a guiding influence for a long time. The Bible says that a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in baskets of silver (Proverbs 25:11). Often it is simply a few words by the right person at the right time that sparks the “Aha!” experience for someone. And the person God uses is never aware of the impact of her influence.

My prayer is that those God-inspired “Aha!” moments happen regularly in the context of our small groups and Sunday gatherings. As you choose a group to join, I urge you to pray that those epiphany moments will happen for you and also happen through you for someone else during the times you come together, for where two or more are gathered in His name, Jesus is there.

For His glory,

Pastor Bill

OUR MISSION STATEMENT: Riverside exists so that people will find and follow Jesus.

OUR CULTURE: Our dream is to be welcoming and relevant to this generation, connecting people to Jesus Christ that they would be transformed by

the power of God’s love and empowered by the Holy Spirit to radically change the world around them.

Characteristics of “Free Market” Small Groups:1. They meet regularly (preferably weekly).

2. They have three or more people attending, including the leader.

3. They develop and identify an assistant leader.

4. They model our core values by striving to Revere God with their worship, Connect with each other for their growth, and Contribute to God’s plan for humankind.

5. Unless specified they welcome new people into the group anytime during the semester.

6. They are supported by section and zone leaders.

7. They develop group members into future leaders.

8. They encourage group members to invite people who are outside of the church.

9. They complete their topic by the start of the next Sign-Up Rally.

10. They grow.

Frequently Asked Questions … What is a small group?An opportunity for people to connect weekly as they journey through life together. Spiritual, emotional and relational growth takes place as everyone shares in the everyday experiences of life.

Who leads the groups?A trained leader and apprentice leader facilitates and encouragesgroup conversation.

Can I change groups if I want to?Absolutely. Our group leaders will encourage you to visit a few groups before selecting the best one for you. If you are currently in a group and would like to make a change, just ask your leader for a recommendation.

What is the commitment to a group?When you select a group, you will be asked to make a commitment to attend your group’s meeting each week and to contribute in your group’s discussion and activities. No term limit is required, but we believe that spiritual, emotional and relational growth with a group takes time.

HOW TO USE THE SMALL GROUP CATALOG1. Look for a group that interests you and that meets at times when you are available.

2. Call the Small Group Leader to notify the group leader of your interest and to find out more information about the group.

3. Still need some help? Contact us at 412-828-2488 or office@riversideconnect.org for more assistance.

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BIBLEPhilippiansGary Evans (856-430-0185)What does the Bible say in Philippians? Does the long winter season tend to rob you of the joy you feel at Christmas? What is your purpose for the New Year? Come study the letter of joy and purpose in this small group.Child Care: Yes Oakmont Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m. Requirements: Bible

Together - StudyAndrea Bender (918-381-8977)Do you remember when God amazed you? When He marvel-ously provided for you? Sadly, sometimes we forget God’s mercy. We lose sight of His grace. The early believers in the Colossian church had forgotten. Instead, they were impressed by spiritual claims from false teachers who were starting to add some extras to salvation by grace through faith alone. The Apostle Paul’s letter reminded them that Jesus was all they need. He challenged them and gave principles for living and interacting at work, in families and in church. In this study on the book of Colossians, we will be reminded of the difference Christ makes in every aspect of our lives. We will also have once-a-month social events as this group is connected with the Together – Social group; participation is welcomed but not required. Child Care: YesOakmontWednesday @ 7:00 p.m.Requirements:  This Bible study is for those who are single or looking for a place to connect ~ 25-40ish.

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Undaunted: Daring To Do What God Calls You To DoLaura Kacy (412-956-1857)

This group will offer life-transforming insights about how not only to overcome the challenges, wrong turns, and often

painful circumstances we experience, but also to actually grow from those experiences and be equipped and empowered to

help others. The focus of this group will teach us to move from the emotion of compassion to boldly stepping up to fight the

worldwide reality of human trafficking, bonded slavery and forced prostitution. Each session will include content from

Christine Caine’s “Undaunted” study, videos from ministries such as The International Justice Mission (IJM), Pennsylvanians

Against Child Trafficking, The Polaris Project and A-21 followed by outreaches to advance awareness and secure freedom for

those who are hopeless and helpless. Persons with godly gifts and talents of intercessory prayer, missional outreach or social

activism have a place in this group. Child Care: NoMills – Room 5

Saturday @ 9:30 a.m.Requirements: In addition to Bible study and prayer, there will be opportunities to make cards and personal bags for rescued

victims in this country, hear guest speakers, participate in fundraisers to help those who are being rescued and attend an optional field trip to Washington DC for the Global Prayer

Gathering at IJM Head Quarters.

BIBLE

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CHILDRENFor more information regarding Children’s Ministry small groups please contact Denise Churchel at 412-828-2488.

MillsNursery 0 – 2 year oldsSunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Preschool 3 year olds – KindergartenRoom 3Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Elementary Grades 1 – 3Room 2Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Elementary Grades 4 – 6Room 4 Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Oakmont – SundayNursery 0 – 2 year oldsRoom 102 Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Preschool 3 – 4 year olds Room 104 Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Kindergarten – Grade 1Room 103Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Elementary Grades 2 – 6Room 105Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

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CHILDRENOakmont – Wednesday

Nursery 0 – 2 year oldsRoom 102

Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.

Preschool 3 year olds – Kindergarten Room 104

Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.

Elementary Grades 1-5Oakmont – Sanctuary

Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.

CREATIVE ARTSCalling All Artists

Karen Jane Mcilwain (412-897-5308)Here’s your chance to paint that picture, finish that illustration, write that book or song, edit that digital print or other creative arts project as you are inspired by other artists on the creative

journey. On occasion we may be invited to display ourartwork or work on a group project. Encouragement, artistic

and spiritual support are offered. Intentionally carve outthat time to be creative!

Child Care: NoOakmont – Room 302

Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.Requirements: A desire to put your creativity to work.

For ages 16 thru 99!

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CREATIVE ARTSWorship Band – Mills Chad Zollo (412-828-2488) Ministry teams which provide musical reinforcement to the Sunday worship services. Child Care: YesMills – Sanctuary Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.Requirements: Rehearsals are from 7 – 8:30 p.m. on Thursday in the Mills Sanctuary. Proficiency in either voice or an instru-ment is required, and placement in a band isdecided through auditions.

Worship Band – OakmontDave Longstreth (412-828-2488) Ministry teams which provide musical reinforcement to the Sunday worship services. Auditions are held for available openings, and worship bands minister on a rotating basis.Child Care: YesOakmont – Sanctuary Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Requirements: Rehearsals are from 7 – 9 p.m. on Thursday in the Oakmont Sanctuary. Proficiency in either voice or an instrument is required, and placement in a band isdecided through auditions. 

“A new commAnd I gIve you: Love one Another. As I hAve Loved you, so you must Love one Another.” John 13:34 (nIV)

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CREATIVE ARTSWorship Choir

Mark Piccolino (412-371-1786)Minister through music that reaches out to the community

through worship concerts and seasonal musicals.Child Care: No

Oakmont – Room 105 Monday @ 7:00 p.m.

Requirements: General choir membership is open for all who enjoy singing worship; soloists are chosen by auditions.

FELLOWSHIPTogether - Social

Andrea Bender (918-381-8977)Together is open to anyone who is looking to get connected,

build friendships and give back to the community. This group is for those who desire fellowship and want to build camarade-

rie with others as we go about life. Together has an organized social gathering once a month and weekly Bible studies (See

Together – Study). We are not designed to live life alone, so let’s do life Together! We want to get to know others in the

church, so we hope you will come.Child Care: TBD

Various LocationsWeekends @ Various Times

Requirements: Together was created as a place for singles and newcomers to feel welcome, though attendees also include

married couples and parents. Communication about the events will be via email and the church bulletin.

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HELPSMeals MinistryTricia Ritchie (724-561-5755)Provide meals for those who have a need (e.g. surgery, a new baby, hospitalization, cancer treatment, etc.).On an as-needed basis.

Outside Impressions Team (Landscape)Tom Robinson (724-224-2373)This group will meet once or twice on Saturday mornings to prepare Riverside Oakmont for the Spring/Summer andFall/Winter seasons. This group provides an excellent way for you to help the church with your time as well as providing fellowship with others from the RCC family no matter what site you attend. By using volunteer work instead of hiring alandscaping service, the church saves money each year toredirect to missions and other causes. Those who sign up will be notified what the schedule will be for each season.Supporting this group improves the image of the church in the community and provides first-time visitors witha positive first impression.Child Care: NoOakmont 401 BuildingSaturdays As Scheduled Requirements: A willingness to serve as aMinister of First Impressions.

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HELPSOutside Impressions Team (Lawn)

Tom Robinson (724-224-2373) This group provides an excellent way for you to help the

church with your time as well as providing fellowship with others from the RCC family no matter what site you attend. By

using volunteer work instead of hiring a landscaping service, the church saves money each year to redirect to missions and

other causes. All equipment and tools are provided byRiverside. Supporting this group improves the image of the

church in the community and provides first-time visitors with a positive first impression. If you are willing to serve just 2 to 4

times during the grass mowing season, please sign up.Child Care: No

Oakmont 401 BuildingThursdays, Fridays or Saturdays as your schedule and

weather permitting.Requirements: A willingness to serve as a Minister of First

Impressions; lawn care equipment is provided.

Stephen Ministry Supervision Laurie Lesoon (412-828-2488)

Provide one-on-one support to people going throughimportant or difficult times.

Child Care: NoOakmont – Room 105

Wednesday @ 6:00 p.m.

“But encourAge one Another dAILy, As Long As It Is cALLed todAy, so thAt none of you mAy Be hArdened By sIn’s

deceItfuLness.” heBrews 3:13 (nIv)

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HELPSStephen Ministry Training ClassLaurie Lesoon (412-828-2488)Stephen Ministers work alongside our pastors to care, encour-age, and provide emotional and spiritual support to people who are going through difficult times such as divorce, grief, hospitalization, unemployment, terminal illness, relocation, chronic illness or loneliness. If you have gifts of caring, en-couragement and listening, you might want to be part of this exciting ministry. Child Care: YesOakmont – CaféSaturdays @ 8:00 a.m.Requirements: 50 hours of training provided and required.

Visitation MinistryJim & Bonnie Fowkes (412-559-9442Provide comfort and support to those who are hospitalizedor homebound.On an as-needed basis.

“when you do thIngs, do not Let seLfIshness or prIde Be your guIde. InsteAd, Be humBLe And gIve more honor to others thAn to yourseLves.” PhIlIP. 2:3 (nCV)

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HOMESCHOOLINGSeasons of a Mother’s Heart - Homeschool/Cyber

School Support GroupBeth Yenca (724-295-3422)

Your life as a mom is a whirlwind of changing seasons that can just as easily exhaust as exhilarate you. Learn to prepare your heart – so you can weather the transitions with grace. Come

as we go through Sally Clarkson’s book, “Seasons of a Mother’s Heart.” This group is perfect for you whether you are in the

beginning, middle or near the end of your homeschooling or cyber schooling journey.

Child Care: NoMills – Lounge

2nd & 4th Tuesday @ 7:30 p.m.

HOSPITALITYBanquet Ministry

Laurie Lesoon (412-828-2488)Assist in setting-up, decorating, serving food and

cleaning-up at special events. On an as-needed basis.

Connection Team – MillsLaurie Lesoon (412-828-2488)

Create a welcoming atmosphere by providing direction,answering questions, distributing literature, receiving the

offering, and preparing and serving communion. Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

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HOSPITALITYConnection Team – Oakmont Laurie Lesoon (412-828-2488)Create a welcoming atmosphere by providing direction,answering questions, distributing literature, receiving theoffering, preparing and serving communion andhelping to answer phone calls. Sunday @ 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

LEADERSHIPEssential Leadership APPSDavid Kennard (412-828-2488)Leadership is influence, and we all have environments where we’re called upon to lead. Whether it’s at home, on the job or in the church, we all have a measure of influence in our relationships. No matter the context in which you find yourself leading, if you’ve ever wished that you were a better leader, this group is for you. The writers of Scripture have a lot to say about what it means to be a leader, and together we’ll focus on these essential skills. It’s one thing to know leadership prin-ciples, but what really matters is what we do – how we APPLY these principles. We have APPS that can wake us up, show us where to shop, help us count calories, log our exercise and keep our to-do list … but they can’t make us get up or control our spending or manage our diet or make us exercise or check off our to-do list … application makes all the differ-ence … application is everything! Child Care: Yes Oakmont Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m. Requirements: Bible

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MARRIAGEYoung Married Couples

Rick & Doreen Paese (412-818-8529)Learn how to be a sacrificial, devoted spouse by studying the

Bible and putting God’s Word into action. Come and enjoy the friendship and support of other married couples who are on

the same journey as you.Child Care: Yes. You can share the cost of childcare with other

parents. Mills – Room 5

Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. Requirements: This group is for couples married less than five

years.

MENMen’s Fraternity: Winning At Work & Home

Vince Mercuri (724-388-7991)This study focuses on the two areas that are central to a man’s

life: his career and his family. This journey builds the walls of manhood by dealing with such topics as understanding

women, marriage, sex, dating, conflict, money, parenting and the world of work.

Child Care: No Mills – Lounge  

Monday @ 7:00 p.m.Requirements: The workbook, “Winning At Work & Home” by

Robert Lewis, will be available for purchase.

“shAke hAnds wArmLy wIth eAch other.” Romans 16:16 (lIVIng)

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OUTREACHGo! GroupJocelyn Hood (412-537-0908) & Gary Whitmore (724-274-2550)A group that meets several times each month to serve in various settings in the surrounding communities. We also serve at the Homewood Food Bank Distribution Center on the second Saturday morning each month from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The GO! Group is designed for people who want to make a difference in the world around them beginninghere in greater Pittsburgh.

PRAYERPrayer WallAt RCC we practice the Scriptural admonition to “pray without ceasing”. We are committed to aligning ourselves with the will of God and that happens in regular times of prayer. We have seen God do the miraculous, take seriously the command to “carry one another’s burdens”, so we have dedicated aportion of our website to lifting each other up in prayer.Users can browse our website, review and pray for requests, and post your own prayer requests. You have the option to share openly, anonymously, or exclusively to the staff. Allentries are available to and filtered by RCC staff. Pleasevisit and participate in the prayer section regularly athttp://www.riversideconnect.org/#/contact/prayer-wall.Please contact the church office at 412-828-2488 oroffice@riversideconnect.org for more information.

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SENIORSThe Lunch Bunch

Laurie Lesoon (412-828-2488)Meet for Bible study, lunch & fellowship with

others in the prime of life. Child Care: No

Oakmont – Café 2nd Thursday @ 11:30 a.m.

Requirements: For those who are 60 years or older.Please bring a lunch.

SPIRITUAL GROWTHThe Me I Want To Be (Christianity 201)

BIll Ellis (412-828-2488) This study will help us discover spiritual vitality like never

before as we learn to ‘live in the flow of the Spirit’. Together we’ll gauge our spiritual health and measure the gap between

where we are now and where God intends us to be. Then we’ll provide some practical suggestions to help us live in the

flow of the Spirit, circumventing real-world barriers---pain and sorrow, temptations, self-doubt, sin--to flourish even in a

dark and broken world. As we start living in the flow, we will feel a deeper connection with God, a growing sense of joy,

an honest recognition of our brokenness, less fear and more trust, and a growing sense of being ‘rooted in love’. God invites

us to join Him in crafting an abundant and joy-filled life, and this journey shows us how to graciously accept His invitation.

Child Care: NoMills – Room 5

Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.Requirements: The book, “The Me I Want To Be” by John

Ortberg, will be available for purchase.

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SUPPORTDivorce CareMichelle SeNay (412-795-8648)Divorce Care is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult situations. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. We meet to help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life.Child Care: YesOakmont – Room 301Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m. Requirements: The “Divorce Care” Workbook will be available for purchase.

GriefShare – Your Journey From Mourning To JoyLaurie Lesoon (412-828-2488)It may be hard for you to feel optimistic about the future right now. If you’ve lost a spouse, child, family member or friend, you’ve probably found that there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. That’s the reason for this support group for people grieving the loss of someone close. Together we’ll work through 13 sessions dealing with topics like “When Your Dreams Fall Apart, Seasons of Grief, Emotions of Grief, When Your Spouse Dies, Your Family and Grief, Where Is God?, Your Greatest Resource, Stuck in Grief or Moving On?, Growing Through Grief, God’s Spiritual Hospital, Longingfor Heaven” and much more! Child Care: YesOakmont – Café Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.Requirements: The “GriefShare” Workbook will beavailable for purchase.

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WOMENGirlfriends

Caara Anstis (412-828-3087) or Jane Cecconi (412-445-9172) Girlfriends is a ministry dedicated to spreading Christ’s love to

the women of our church and community. Our mission is to bring women of all ages and backgrounds together to laugh,

talk and enjoy one another’s company. How do we do this? By hosting various social events throughout the year exclusively

for women. In addition to having fun, we also support local and global Christian missions through fund-raising efforts

at our various social events and activities. If you areinterested in being a part of Girlfriends, you can be

involved as little or as much as you want.Look for our announcements in the bulletin!

Child Care: NoVarious Locations & Events

Requirements: For more information contactrccgirlfriends@verizon.net or

www.facebook.com/GirlfriendsRCC.

“you shouLd not stAy AwAy from the church meetIngs, As some Are doIng, But you shouLd meet together And

encourAge eAch other.” hebRews 10:25 (nCV)

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YOUNG ADULTSTwenty-SomethingsMichael Evans (856-430-0187) You know you’re a college/twenty-something when you have to choose between dinner and a movie or Top Ramen for a week, the car in your dreams and the car in your parking slot are completely different, and you’re collecting all your change to pay for gas. You’re not alone! Join us for a group offering practical wisdom, humor, encouragement and Scripturalinsight as we all do this “young adult” thing together.Child Care: NoNexus Tuesday @ 7:00 p.m. Requirements: College Age/20’s

YOUTHNexus offers two gatherings every week for students to take a break from the craziness of life, relax, recharge, hang out, have fun and experience God. Expect music, videos, food,challenging messages and, of course, great people!To get connected visit www.nexussm.org.

Junior High Students (Grades 6-8)Nexus Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m.

Senior High Students (Grades 9-12)NexusSunday @ 7:00 p.m.

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INDEX OF GROUPS BY DAY

SUNDAY LEADER PHONE # PAGE #Connection Team - Mills Laurie Lesoon 412-828-2488 10Connection Team - Oakmont Laurie Lesoon 412-828-2488 11Nexus: Sr. High Donnie Marsh 412-828-2488 17Together - Social Andrea Bender 918-381-8977 6Worship Band - Mills Chad Zollo 412-828-2488 5Worship Band - Oakmont Dave Longstreth 412-828-2488 5

MONDAY LEADER PHONE # PAGE #Men’s Fraternity Vince Mercuri 724-388-7991 12Worship Choir Mark Piccolino 412-371-1786 6

TUESDAY LEADER PHONE # PAGE #Seasons of a Mother’s Heart Beth Yenca 724-295-3422 10Twenty-Somethings Michael Evans 856-430-0187 17

WEDNESDAY LEADER PHONE # PAGE #Calling All Artists Karen Jane Mcilwain 412-897-5308 4Divorce Care Michelle SeNay 412-795-8648 15Essential Leadership Apps David Kennard 412-828-2488 11GriefShare Laurie Lesoon 412-828-2488 15Nexus: Jr. High Donnie Marsh 412-828-2488 17Philippians Gary Evans 856-430-0185 1Stephen Ministry Supervision Laurie Lesoon 412-828-2488 8The Me I Want To Be Bill Ellis 412-828-2488 14Together - Study Andrea Bender 918-381-8977 1

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INDEX OF GROUPS BY DAY

THURSDAY LEADER PHONE # PAGE #The Lunch Bunch Laurie Lesoon 412-828-2488 14Young Married Couples Rick & Doreen 412-818-8529 12 Paese

FRIDAY LEADER PHONE # PAGE #Together - Social Andrea Bender 918-381-8977 6

SATURDAY LEADER PHONE # PAGE #Go! Group Jocelyn Hood 412-537-0908 13 & Gary Whitmore 724-274-2550 Stephen Ministry Training Class Laurie Lesoon 412-828-2488 9Together - Social Andrea Bender 918-381-8977 6Undaunted Laura Kacy 412-956-1857 2