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Message Ascend to PurposeJourney

“I have come that theymay have life and haveit to the full.” John 10:10 NIV

01 Introduction02 Step One – Become a Member18 Step Two – Discover Your Purpose23 How to Take the Personality Assessment33 How to Take the Spiritual Gifts Assessment46 Step Three – Join the Team52 Appendix55 Dream Team Descriptions68 Youth Protection Policy69 Leadership Honor CodeTable of ContentsUnless otherwise noted, all Scripture is taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan.All rights reserved. Portions of this outline are used by permission of Saddleback Church.

The Ascend to Purpose track guides you to discover God’s uniquepurpose for your life and how to live the life that He has created foryou. The Ascend to Purpose track is made up of three steps thatequip you to 1) connect to the church, 2) discover the strengths ofyour intentional design, and 3) use your God-given gifts to make adifference in the lives of others.Step One – Become a MemberConnect with Ascend and discover the ins and outs of the church,learn details about beliefs, leadership and church government, howwe handle money, and how we intentionally organize our church. Youwill also have the opportunity to become an Ascend member. StepOne takes place the first Sunday of every month.Step Two – Discover Your PurposeDive into the details of your personality, discover your gifts, andbegin the journey of discovering your purpose in life and how youcan make a difference in the lives of others. Step Two takes placethe second Sunday of every month.Step Three – Join the TeamFind out what it means to make a difference with Ascend andconnect to the opportunities available at Ascend to live out yourpurpose and serve others by using your God-given gifts. Step Threetakes place the third Sunday of every month.Ascend to PurposeAscend to Purpose 1

Step One:Become aMemberAscend to PurposeAscend to Purpose 2

Ascend Church of Ruston was born from a deep calling, acourageous step of faith, and a relentless belief that Godstill speaks, heals, and calls His people higher. Foundedby Dr. Kimber Hanchey-Ogden, Ascend didn’t begin as abuilding or a budget—but as a burden. A burden to seepeople rise beyond religious routines and encounter thetransforming presence of God.Kimber saw a deep need in her city of Ruston, Louisianafor a Spirit-filled, Spirit-led church—a place wherepeople could experience more than religion, but realrelationship, freedom, and transformation through JesusChrist. After years of serving, praying, and witnessing thegaps in the church’s response to brokenness, mentalhealth, and hidden struggles, and equipping the nextgeneration of leaders, she felt a divine push to create aspace where people could meet God authentically—without performance, without shame, and withoutpretense.Our Story: The Birth of Ascend ChurchAscend to Purpose 3Founded by Kimber Hanchey-Ogden

On Sunday February 9, they held their first service inRuston at the Lincoln Parish Public Library. On May 4,they held their first service in their new permanentlocation at 203 W. Alabama Ave. The location served asan outpost and an oasis.She believes that every person has a ministry and aGod-given call. Her passion is to develop that ministry—to equip every person who is a part of Ascend Church tofully walk in their calling and achieve their highestpotential for God here on earth. Ascend is not just aplace to attend church—it’s a place to be activated.Rooted in Philippians 3:14 — “I press toward the mark forthe prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus,”Ascend Church exists to help people rise abovelimitation, step into divine purpose, and pursue thefullness of God’s call. Every message, every worshipmoment, every outreach effort is designed to do onething: elevate lives through the power and presence ofJesus Christ.Our Story: The Birth of Ascend ChurchAscend to Purpose 4

What began as a vision is now a movement. Ascend ismore than a church—it’s a launchpad. A place wherechains break, callings awaken, and people areempowered to rise.Our Story: The Birth of Ascend ChurchAscend to Purpose 5

Ascend to Purpose 6Our spiritual journey consists of four steps:1. Our Prayer for You“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, maygive you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. Ipray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may knowthe hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in Hisholy people.”Ephesians 1:17–18 NIV“Some of these people have missed the most important thing in life—they don’tknow God...”1 Timothy 6:21 TLB“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, butonly the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”Matthew 7:21 NIV“[I pray]...that you may know Him better [personally].”Ephesians 1:17-18 NIVAt Ascend, we help empower people through2. “[I pray]…that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened [focused and clear].”Ephesians 1:17–18 NIV“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that youmay be healed.”James 5:16 NIVAt Ascend, we help people reach their highestpotential through

Ascend to Purpose 73. “[I pray]…that you may know the hope to which He has called you.”Ephesians 1:17–18 NIV“All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of themcame to be”Psalms 139:16 NIV“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.”Romans 12:6 NIVAt Ascend, we help people discover theirpurpose through the 4. “[I pray]…that you may grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life He has forHis followers [in His holy people.].”Ephesians 1:17–18 MSG“All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it.”1 Corinthians 12:27 NLT“This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to bemy disciples... I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that yourjoy may be complete.”John 15:8 NIV“God has given to each of you from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them,well to serve one another”J1 Peter 4:10 NLTAt Ascend, we help people use their gifts todevelop others on the

Ascend to Purpose 8Ascend Church GovernmentAs you consider investing your heart, time, family, andfinances into the life of a church, it is important for youto feel confident in church leadership. Our goal in sharingthe details of Ascend’s government is that you canbetter understand that our church is structured tosupport the values of integrity, accountability, andspiritual authority.We are: Guided by Pastors.The Pastoral Staff team is led by Senior Pastor, Dr.Kimber Hanchey-Ogden. This team oversees the day-to-day ministry and operations of the church. Thesestaff pastors serve the congregation and are responsiblefor the development of the spiritual life of the church. Credentialed with the Assemblies of God.Our governmental members are listed in articles ofincorporation and bylaws. We also have a non-memberaccountant who regularly review church records. Strengthened by Overseers.The Overseers are pastors and ministry leaders ofrespected congregations and ministries who loveAscend Church and its Senior Pastor and providespiritual protection to the church. They may be calledupon to help in accountability matters relating to theSenior Pastor if requested to do so by the Pastoral Staffor the accountability board.

Ascend to Purpose 9Church FinancesAt Ascend Church, we believe in the principle oftithing. We recognize that giving 10% of ourincome is the biblical standard for giving, and wepractice tithing for the support of Christ’s body,the Church, as God commands“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then yourbarns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”Proverbs 3:9-10 NIV“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.Test me in this, ‘says the Lord Almighty, ’and see if I will not throw open thefloodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be roomenough to store it.’”Malachi 3:10 NIV

Giving is one of the central themes in the Bible.Jesus talked more about this subject thanHeaven, hell, or prayer. To understand what itmeans to be a Christ-follower, we must alsounderstand what it means to be a giver.1 - TitheThe tithe, or “first fruits,” of our labor/income belongto God. We find this principle all through God’s Word.Tithing, giving God the first 10% of our income to thelocal church, is the primary practical way weacknowledge that God is first (Proverbs 3:9-10).2 - Offerings An offering is giving over and above the tithe. TheBible says that by giving generously, we are able to“take hold of the life that is truly life” (1 Timothy 6:18-19).3 - The Gift of GivingThe gift of giving is a spiritual gift that God gives tosome people (Romans 12:8). It is a Spirit-givencapacity and desire to serve God by giving of yourmaterial resources, far beyond the tithe, to furtherthe work of God. Those who want to use their gift ofgiving to help accelerate the vision of Ascend Churchserve on the Legacy Team.Ascend to Purpose 10

Ascend to Purpose 11Many people love to give to God and want tofeel confident in the organization through whichthey give. At Ascend, we want people tounderstand they are giving to God through thechurch, not to the church. As we openly sharethe honesty, integrity, and spiritual values thatguide the financial practices of Ascend, webelieve people can focus on what God is callingthem to give and trust that He is leading ourchurch to steward it well.The giving of tithes and offerings is worship toJesus. Giving is not considered a businesstransaction but an act of worship and anexpression of gratitude to God. That is why wedon’t have people fill out pledge cards or makefaith promises.

Next Steps1. of Ascend Church.Membership at Ascend is not about adding yourname to a roster; it’s about connecting with thepeople and the vision of the church. We would lovefor you to be a part of our church family.2. a Small Group.Browse our online Groups directory atascendchurch.churchcenter.com/groups. Once youfind a few groups that interest you, contact theleaders to learn more and make plans to check outthe group(s) in person.3. the Ascend to Purposetrack.Step One - Become a MemberStep Two - Discover Your PurposeStep Three - Join the Team4. on the Dream Team.Your invited to be a part of the team! Find a serveopportunity that fits your gifts, and get ready tomake a difference in the lives of others.Ascend to Purpose 12

Becoming a MemberAscend Church Membership CovenantHaving received Christ as my Lord and Savior and beingin agreement with the values and ideas presented inStep One of the Growth Track, I know feel led by the HolySpirit to unite with the Ascend Church family. In doing so,I make the following commitment to God and my fellowchurch members: 1. I will protect the unity of my church by:Acting in love toward other members.Refusing to gossip.Following the leaders.“So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.”Romans 14:19 NLT“May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in completeharmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus.”Romans 15:5 NLT“Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you havesincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.”1 Peter 1:22 NIV“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what ishelpful for building others up according to their needs.”Ephesians 4:29 NIV“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because theykeep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that theirwork will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.”Hebrews 13:17 NIVAscend to Purpose 13

2. I will share the responsibility of my churchby:Praying for its growth and health.Inviting the unchurched to attend.Warmly welcoming those who visit.3. I will serve the ministry of my church by:Discovering my gifts and talents.Using my God-given gifts to make adifference in the lives of others.Developing a servant’s heart.“To the church...we always thank God for all of you and continually mentionyou in our prayers.”1 Thessalonians 1:1–2 NIV“'Go out into the country…and urge anyone you find to come in, so that the housewill be full.'”Luke 14:23 TLB“So, warmly welcome each other into the church, just as Christ has warmlywelcomed you; then God will be glorified.”Romans 15:7 TLB“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, asfaithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”1 Peter 4:10 NIV“So Christ Himself gave...pastors and teachers, to equip His people for works ofservice, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”Ephesians 4:11–12 NIV“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interestsof others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus...taking the formof a bondservant...”Philippians 2:4–5, 7 NKJVAscend to Purpose 14

4. I will support the testimony of my churchby:Attending church and Small Groups faithfully.Living a godly life.Giving regularly.“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to thebreaking of bread and to prayer.”Acts 2:42 NIV“Let us not neglect our meeting together...but encourage one another.”Hebrews 10:25 NLT“But whatever happens, make sure that your everyday life is worthy of theGospel of Christ.”Philippians 1:27 PhillipsAscend to Purpose 15

Step Two:Discover YourPurposeAscend to PurposeAscend to Purpose 16

Discovering Your GiftsAll of us were created by God to make a difference inthe life of another person. God has a place for you whereyour unique abilities and passions can touch the lives ofothers. We believe that your life will never make senseuntil you find, develop, and fulfill that purpose.“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, whichGod prepared in advance for us to do.”Ephesians 2:10 NIV“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race andcomplete the task the Lord Jesus has given me.”Acts 20:24 NIV“Now God gives us many kinds of special abilities…and there are different kindsof service to God (ministry)…All of you together are the one Body of Christ andeach of you is a separate and necessary part of it.”1 Corinthians 12:4-5, 27 TLBAt Ascend Church:Every member is a Every task is Every member is a “10” in “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in mymother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Yourworkmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.”Psalm 139:13-14 NLT reveals destiny.Ascend to Purpose 17

Ascend to Purpose 181 - Your “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each ofus. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance withyour faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach;if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, thengive generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to showmercy, do it cheerfully.”Romans 12:6–8 NIV2 - Your “So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take youreveryday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work,and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering.Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can dofor Him.”Romans 12:1 MSG3 - Your “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God isour merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comfortsus in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When theyare troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort Godhas given us.”2 Corinthians 1:3–4 NLT

How to Take the PersonalityAssessmentStep 1: Answer each question under sections 1–4 bycircling the number that best describes you. Allowyourself two to three minutes to complete this stepbefore moving on to other steps.Step 2: Add the total of circled numbers for the fivestatements under each section. Write each total on theindicated total line for each section.Step 3: Identify the group with the highest totalednumber and the second highest totaled number todiscover your dominant personality traits.Box 1 = “D” personalityBox 2 = “I” personalityBox 3 = “S” personalityBox 4 = “C” personalityWrite your predominant personality traits sequence inthe top right-hand corner (DI, ID, SC, CD, etc.).Step 4: Read the description of your most predominantpersonality trait (D, I, S, C) and the description of yourtwo highest personality traits together (DI, ID, SC, CD,etc.).Ascend to Purpose 19

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Making the Most of YourPersonality“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works...”Ephesians 2:10 NASBEvery personality has strengths and challenges. Thefollowing will give you specific areas to focus on to helpyou work well with others.“D” personalities are dominant, direct, task-oriented,decisive, organized, outgoing, and outspoken. As youembrace these strengths, also make sure to:• Listen attentively to others.• Support other team members.• Invest in personal relationships.• Balance controlling and domineering tendencies.• Value the opinions, feelings, and desires of others.“I” personalities are influential, witty, easygoing,outgoing, and people-oriented. As you embrace thesestrengths, also make sure to:• Be aware of tasks that need to be accomplished.• Balance your emotions, words, and actions.• Remember to consider details and facts.• Slow down your pace for others when necessary.• Listen attentively to others instead of only talking.• Choose thoughtful over impulsive decision-making.Ascend to Purpose 26

“S” personalities are steady, stable, analytical,introverted, and people-oriented. As you embracethese strengths, also makesure to:• Take initiative.• Practice flexibility.• Approach confrontation constructively.• Be direct in your interactions when necessary.• Realize change can be healthy, and be willing to adapt.• Consider the overall goals of your family or group, notjust specific processes or procedures.“C” personalities are compliant, competent, goal-oriented, focused on tasks, and introverted. As youembrace these strengths, also make sure to:• Be decisive when necessary.• Cultivate personal relationships.• Be open to others’ ideas and methods.• Balance your focus between facts and people.• Focus on doing the right things, not just doing thingsright.• Help others accomplish their goals.Ascend to Purpose 27

Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts“'Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do theworks I have been doing, and they will do even greaterthings than these, because I am goingto the Father.'”John 14:12 NIVAscend to Purpose 28

How to Take the SpiritualGifts AssessmentStep 1: Respond to the spiritual gifts statements onpages 28-29 by writing the number that indicates howeach statement describes you in the blanks on page 30:1 – Almost never2 – Sometimes3 – Almost alwaysAllow yourself six minutes to answer all questions beforemoving on to other steps.Step 2: Add each line on page 30 left to right and placethe totaled number in the total column.Step 3: Identify your three highest totaled numbers withthe corresponding letter and the spiritual gift itrepresents (listed on the pages following theassessment).Step 4: Read about your gifts.Connect with a team that complements yourpersonality, highest rated spiritual gifts, and availabilityto serve.Ascend to Purpose 29

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Using Your Spiritual GiftsCongratulations on discovering your spiritualgifts! God uniquely created you and gave youthese gifts for a reason. Now that you’veidentified how He has gifted you, your next stepis to learn how you can use those gifts for thepurpose He has for you.On the following pages, you can learn about yourspiritual gifts and find out more about how youcan use your gifts to serve God and others aspart of a team.Ascend to Purpose 33

A. AdministrationThe gift of administration is the divine strength or ability toorganize multiple tasks and groups of people to accomplishthese tasks.Luke 14:28-30; Acts 6:1-7; 1 Corinthians 12:28(A-Team, Correctional Ministry, Dream Team Check-In, Events, Kids Check-In,Production, Resource, Set-Up/Take-Down)B. ApostleshipThe gift of apostleship is the divine strength or ability to pioneernew churches and ministries through planting, overseeing, andtraining.Acts 15:22-35; 1 Corinthians 12:28; 2 Corinthians 12:12; Galatians 2:7-10; Ephesians4:11-14(Dream Center, Growth Track Host, Local Campus Outreach, Small Groups)C. CraftsmanshipThe gift of craftsmanship is the divine strength or ability to plan,build, and work with your hands in construction environments toaccomplish multiple ministry applications.Exodus 30:22, 31:3-11; 2 Chronicles 34:9-13; Acts 18:2-3(Campus Support/Facilities, Dream Center, Ascend Kids, Local Campus Outreach,Production, Set-Up/Take-Down, Students)D. DiscernmentThe gift of discernment is the divine strength or ability tospiritually identify falsehood and to distinguish between rightand wrong motives and situations.Matthew 16:21-23; Acts 5:1-11, 16:16-18; 1 Corinthians 12:10; 1 John 4:1-6(Correctional Ministry, Growth Track Host, Ascend Haven, Kids Check-In, Prayer,Small Groups, Ushers)E. EvangelismThe gift of evangelism is the divine strength or ability to helpnon-Christians take the necessary steps to becoming Christfollowers.Acts 8:5-6, 26-40, 14:21; 21:8; Ephesians 4:11-14(Correctional Ministry, Dream Center, Local Campus Outreach, Prayer, SmallGroups, Students)Ascend to Purpose 34

F. ExhortationThe gift of exhortation is the divine strength or ability toencourage others through the written or spoken word andbiblical truth.Acts 14:22; Romans 12:8; 1 Timothy 4:13; Hebrews 10:24-25(Campus Host, Correctional Ministry, Dream Team Check-In, Dream Team Host,Events, Greeters, Growth Track Host, Ascend Kids, Information, Parking, SmallGroups, Students, Ushers)G. FaithThe gift of faith is the divine strength or ability to believe in Godfor unseen supernatural results in every arena of life.Acts 11:22-24; Romans 4:18-21; 1 Corinthians 12:9; Hebrews 11(All Teams)H. GivingThe gift of giving is the divine strength or ability to producewealth and to give by tithes and offerings for the purpose ofadvancing the Kingdom of God on earth.Mark 12:41-44; Romans 12:8; 2 Corinthians 8:1-7, 9:2-7(Legacy)L. HealingThe gift of healing is the divine strength or ability to act as anintermediary in faith, prayer, and by the laying-on of hands forthe healing of physical and mental illnesses.Acts 3:1-10, 9:32-35, 28:7-10; 1 Corinthians 12:9, 28(First Aid, Ascend Haven, Prayer)J. HelpsThe gift of helps is the divine strength or ability to work in asupportive role for the accomplishment of tasks in Christianministry.Mark 15:40-41; Acts 9:36; Romans 16:1-2; 1 Corinthians 12:28(A-Team, Campus Host, Campus Support/Facilities, Dream Center, Dream TeamHost, Events, First Aid, Information, Local Campus Outreach, Resource)Ascend to Purpose 35

K. HospitalityThe gift of hospitality is the divine strength or ability to createwarm, welcoming environments for others in places such as yourhome, office, or church.Acts 16:14-15; Romans 12:13, 16:23; Hebrews 13:1-2; 1 Peter 4:9(Baptism, Campus Host, Dream Team Check-In, Dream Team Host, Events,Greeters, Growth Track Host, Information, Kids Check-In, Parking, Small Groups,Students, Ushers)L. IntercessionThe gift of intercession is the divine strength or ability to standin the gap in prayer for someone, something, or somewherebelieving for profound results.Hebrews 7:25; Colossians 1:9-12, 4:12-13; James 5:14-16(Prayer, Small Groups)M. KnowledgeThe gift of knowledge is the divine strength or ability tounderstand and bring clarity to situations and circumstances,often accompanied by a word from God.Acts 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 12:8; Colossians 2:2-3(First Aid, Ascend Haven, Online Campus, Prayer, Production, Small Groups,Ushers)N. LeadershipThe gift of leadership is the divine strength or ability to influencepeople at their level while directing and focusing them on the bigpicture, vision, or idea.Romans 12:8; 1 Timothy 3:1-13, 5:17; Hebrews 13:17(Small Groups, All Teams)O. MercyThe gift of mercy is the divine strength or ability to feel empathyand to care for those who are hurting in any way.Matthew 9:35-36; Mark 9:41; Romans 12:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:14(Correctional Ministry, Dream Center, First Aid, Ascend Haven, Local CampusOutreach, Small Groups)Ascend to Purpose 36

P. MiraclesThe gift of miracles is the divine strength or ability to alter thenatural outcomes of life in a supernatural way through prayer,faith, and divine direction.Acts 9:36-42, 19:11-12, 20:7-12; Romans 15:18-19; 1 Corinthians 12:10, 28(First Aid, Prayer)Q. MissionaryThe missionary gift is the divine strength or ability to reachothers outside of your culture and nationality, while in mostcases living in that culture or nation.Acts 8:4, 13:2-3, 22:21; Romans 10:15(Correctional Ministry, Dream Center, Local Campus Outreach, Small Groups)R. Music/WorshipThe gift of music/worship is the divine strength or ability to sing,dance, or play an instrument primarily for the purpose of helpingothers worship God.Deuteronomy 31:22; 1 Samuel 16:16; 1 Chronicles 16:41-42; 2 Chronicles 5:12-13,34:12; Psalm 150(Ascend Kids, Ascend Worship, Nursery/Preschool, Small Groups, Students)S. Pastor/ShepherdThe gift of pastor/shepherd is the divine strength or ability tocare for the personal needs of others by nurturing and mendinglife issues.John 10:1-18; Ephesians 4:11-14; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Peter 5:1-3(Correctional Ministry, Dream Center, Growth Track Host, Ascend Kids, LocalCampus Outreach, Online Campus, Small Groups, Students, Ushers)T. ProphecyThe gift of prophecy is the divine strength or ability to boldlyspeak and bring clarity to scriptural and doctrinal truth, in somecases foretelling God’s plan.Matthew 9:35-36; Mark 9:41; Romans 12:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:14Acts 2:37-40, 7:51-53, 26:24-29; 1 Corinthians 14:1-4; 1 Thessalonians 1:5(Prayer, Small Groups)Ascend to Purpose 37

U. ServiceThe gift of serving is the divine strength or ability to do small orgreat tasks in working for the overall good of the body of Christ.Acts 6:1-7; Romans 12:7; Galatians 6:10; 1 Timothy 1:16-18; Titus 3:14(A-Team, Baptism, Dream Center, Dream Team Check-In, Dream Team Host,Events, Kids Check-In, Nursery/Preschool, Parking, Local Campus Outreach,Production, Resource, Set-Up/Take-Down)V. TeachingThe gift of teaching is the divine strength or ability to study andlearn from the Scriptures primarily to bring understanding andgrowth to other Christians.Acts 18:24-28, 20:20-21; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-14(Ascend Kids Elementary, Nursery/Preschool, Small Groups)W. Tongues & InterpretationThe gift of tongues is the divine strength or ability to pray in aheavenly language to encourage your spirit and to communewith God. The gift of tongues is often accompanied byinterpretation and should be used appropriately.Acts 2:1-13; 1 Corinthians 12:10, 14:1-14(Prayer)X. WisdomThe gift of wisdom is the divine strength or ability to apply thetruths of Scripture in a practical way, producing a fruitfuloutcome and the character of Jesus Christ.Acts 6:3, 10; 1 Corinthians 2:6-13, 12:8(Dream Center, Ascend Worship, Local Campus Outreach, Prayer, Small Groups,Ushers)Ascend to Purpose 38

Next Steps1. Attend Step Three of the Ascend to Purposetrack.2. Pray and ask God to strengthen the gifts andpassions inside of you.3. Join the Dream Team.Now that you’ve discovered your God-given gifts, find ateam where you can use those strengths to make adifference in the lives of others. For a comprehensive listof teams, see page 42.Ascend to Purpose 39

Step Three:Join the TeamAscend to PurposeAscend to Purpose 40

Dream Team Core Values1 - We love “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized thatthey were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished, andthey took note that these men had been with Jesus.”Acts 4:13 NIVDevelop your Develop your Develop your 2 - We love “Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that those whoare regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and theirhigh officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you.Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must beyour servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave ofall. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but toserve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.’”Mark 10:42-45 NIVBe Be Be Ascend to Purpose 41

3 - We pursue “People were overwhelmed with amazement. ‘He has doneeverything well,’ they said.”Mark 7:37 NIVDo things Do things Do than is 4 - We choose “...sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich;having nothing, and yet possessing everything.”2 Corinthians 6:10 NIVBe Be Be Make every experience a To Begin Serving:1. Complete your Step Three card.2. Attend an orientation in the serve area of yourchoice.3. Have a conversation with one of our team membersat your orientation for a personal connection to theteam and to receive your next steps.Ascend to Purpose 42

Next StepsAt Ascend, we believe everyone has a Next Step in growing closer intheir relationship with Jesus. You now have the tools you need to takeyour Next Steps on your journey to empower people to reach theirhighest potential in God’s Kingdom.Ascend to Purpose 43

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Dream Team Table of Contents56 Host TeamsA-TeamBaptismCampus HostCampus Support/FacilitiesDream Team Check-InDream Team HostEventsFirst Aid60 Ascend Kids TeamsCheck-InElementaryAscend Haven62 Students TeamsYouth StudentsYoung Adults64 Outreach TeamsCorrectional MinistryDisaster ResponseDream Center66 Small Groups Team66 Ascend WorshipMusicProductionGreeterGrowth Track HostInformationParkingPrayerResourceSetup/TakedownUsherJV Dream TeamNursery/PreschoolOutreachAscend to Purpose 46

Host TeamsHost Teams are an essential part of church life and make Ascendfeel like home to every person who walks through our doors. Theenvironment we create goes far beyond big smiles, a friendlygreeting, and hot coffee–God uses host teams to set the stage toreach more people and change lives.A-TeamThe A-Team uses the gift of administration to collect and maintaindata to ensure information is secure, complete, and accurate sothat everyone can take their next steps.Age: 18+, Background CheckBaptism TeamThe Baptism Team hosts water baptism services, ensuring theexperience is excellent and meaningful for those making a publicdeclaration of their faith in Jesus.Age: 14+ in High SchoolCampus Host TeamThe Campus Host Team uses the gift of hospitality to greet, host,and engage guests in the lobby and auditorium.Age: 14+ in High SchoolCampus Support/Facilities TeamThe Campus Support/Facilities Team helps to create an excellent,distraction-free environment by working “behind the scenes” tomaintain and support excellence in every area of our church,including baptism, conferences, and special events.Age: 18+, Background CheckDream Team Check-In TeamThe Dream Team Check-In Team creates a welcoming environmentfor Dream Team members by providing an excellent check-inexperience at services, conferences, and outreach events.Age: 18+, Background CheckAscend to Purpose 47

Dream Team Host TeamThe Dream Team Host Team creates an engaging environment inDream Team Central for Dream Team members to enjoy food andrefreshments, build relationships, and receive words ofencouragement during services, conferences, and special events.Age: 14+ in High SchoolEvents TeamThe Events Team creates an excellent, memorable experiencethrough food, giveaways, and more at services, conferences, andspecial events.Age: 14+ in High SchoolFirst Aid TeamThe First Aid Team uses their gifts to meet basic first-aid needs atweekend services, conferences, and special events.Age: 19+, Background CheckGreeter TeamThe Greeter Team creates a positive first impression by welcoming,greeting, and encouraging each guest as they enter and exit AscendChurch.Age: 14+ in High SchoolGrowth Track Host TeamThe Growth Track Host Team helps everyone attending the GrowthTrack find their place in the local church, discover their God-givenpurpose, and make a difference serving on the Dream Team.Age: 14+ in High SchoolInformation TeamThe Information Team helps guests identify their next steps byproviding resources and information about campuses, weekendservices, Small Groups, Growth Track, conferences, and specialevents.Age: 14+ in High SchoolAscend to Purpose 48

Parking TeamThe Parking Team gives guests a positive first and last impression asthey arrive and exit by providing clear direction for a safe andefficient parking experience.Age: 16+Prayer TeamThe Prayer Team provides prayer covering for services, conferences,teams, and ministries.Age: 14+ in High SchoolResource TeamThe Resource Team serves “behind the scenes” to provide suppliesand materials to create a welcoming environment and an excellentworship experience.Age: 14+ in High SchoolSet-Up/Take-Down TeamThe Set-Up/Take-Down Team helps transform spaces for Ascendservices, providing distraction-free, excellent environments whereguests can experience God.Age: 14+ in High SchoolUsher TeamThe Usher Team provides a positive worship experience by assistingguests with seating, facilitating tithes/offerings, and helping tosecure a distraction-free worship environment.Age: 18+, MaleAscend to Purpose 49

Ascend Kids TeamsAscend Kids is one team with five areas. Our team helps kids have agenuine relationship with God, build a biblical foundation for theirlives, grow with friends and leaders, and love being at church.Check-In TeamThe Kids Check-In Team creates a welcoming environment andassists families with checking in, dropping off, and picking upchildren in our Elementary and Nursery/Preschool areas.Age: 18+, Background CheckElementary TeamThe Elementary Team invests in the lives of children who are in 1stthrough 5th grade by giving them the opportunity to discover anddevelop a passion for God through Bible teaching, worship, SmallGroups, prayer, and games.Age: 14+ in High School. Background CheckAscend Haven TeamThe Ascend Haven Team serves children and teens with specialneeds, providing support so that each one can participate in ourenvironments successfully.Age: 14+ in High School, Background CheckJV Dream TeamThe JV Dream Team is a leadership development opportunity forstudents in 6th-8th grade, led by our Ascend Kids and Studentsteams. Middle school students can serve without a parent as theylearn to serve and lead in Elementary and Preschool.Age: 11+ in 6th GradeNursery/Preschool TeamThe Nursery/Preschool Team serves children 6 weeks throughKindergarten and offers them the opportunity to hear the life-givingmessage of Jesus through Bible stories, worship, prayer, and hands-on activities.Age: 14+ in High School, Background CheckAscend to Purpose 50

Student TeamsThe Students Teams help middle school, high school, andcollege students feel welcome and known by creatingenvironments where they connect with God, experienceHim, and take their next steps.Youth TeamThe Ascend Students Team helps middle school andhigh school students get connected through SmallGroups, retreats, conferences, and serving at thestudents' area on Sundays.Age: 14+ in High School, Background CheckYoung Adults TeamThe Young Adults Team helps students get connectedthrough our weekly college services, Small Groups,outreaches, retreats, and conferences.Age: 18+, Background CheckAscend to Purpose 51

Outreach TeamsOutreach is one team with five areas. Our team serves others byshowing God’s love in practical ways through meeting the needswithin our communities and spheres of influence.Correctional Ministry TeamThe Correctional Ministry Team facilitates Small Groups and Sundayservices in state prisons and other correctional facilities andprovides prayer support and written letters of encouragement.Age: 18+ for Juvenile Facilities, 19+ for Adult Facilities, Background CheckDisaster Response TeamThe Disaster Response Team is a specialized team trained to servein disaster areas ministering to the physical, spiritual, and emotionalneeds of those affected.Age: 14-16 years must be accompanied by parent, 17-18 years can serve with parentalpermission, 19+, Background CheckDream Center TeamThe Dream Center Team supports local campus outreach and alsofacilitates various serve opportunities through Ascend Dream Team.Age: 14+ in High School, Background CheckLocal Campus Outreach TeamThe Local Outreach Team helps meet the practical and spiritualneeds of our communities by leading and supporting outreachinitiatives like First Saturday Serve, Easter Outreach, Mother’s DayOutreach, Serve Day, Back to School Outreach, ThanksgivingOutreach, Giving Hope, and more.Age: 14+ in High School, Background CheckAscend to Purpose 52

Ascend Worship TeamsMusic TeamThe Music Team facilitates a powerful, on-stage worship experiencethrough utilizing the skills of vocalists and instrumentalists.Age: 16+, Music Audition, Development Training Process, Background CheckProduction TeamThe Production Team facilitates a powerful, distraction-free worshipexperience through the use of lighting, video technology, and audioengineering.Age: 16+, Development Training Process, Background CheckSmall Groups TeamsThe Small Groups Team leads weekly Small Groups for people toexperience authentic community, find freedom, and grow in theirrelationship with Jesus.Background Check (Groups with Unaccompanied Minors)Ascend to Purpose 53

Youth Protection PolicyI understand that Ascend Church is a safe place for children andvulnerable adults and that Ascend complies with all Federal andState laws regarding reporting suspected child abuse. As a memberof the Dream Team, I understand that suspected abuse is to bereported to the staff member who oversees the area in which Iserve. I also understand the four types of abuse defined below: Physical: a physical act directed at a child or vulnerable adultthat causes injury. Sexual: contact or interactions between a child and an adult, oranother child, when the child is being used for sexual stimulationof the perpetrator or another person. This includes exploitationthrough photographs, videos, or other communication methods.Emotional: acts or omissions by the parent or other caregiversthat have caused, or could cause, serious behavioral, cognitive,emotional, or mental disorders. Neglect: failure to provide for the child or vulnerable adult’sbasic needs. This includes adequate adult supervision, medicalattention, housing, food, and clothing. Most cases of physicalneglect involve inadequate adult supervision that has causedharm to the child or vulnerable adult or places them in danger ofsuch harm. I understand it is not my responsibility to investigate and in noinstance will I confront a parent or caregiver if abuse is suspected.As a member of the Dream Team, I agree to comply with this policyand report any suspected abuse to the staff person who overseesthe area in which I serve. I also understand that nothing in this policy is intended to omit orlimit any mandatory reporting obligations that I may personally haveunder state, federal, or local law.Ascend to Purpose 54

Leadership Honor CodeAs an essential part of Ascend Church Leadership family, you have aresponsibility to develop and exhibit mature Christian behavior. Thisshould be the basic premise of your desire to participate in aservant-leader position here at Ascend Church. While serving the Body of Christ as a servant-leader at Ascend, youpledge to present a good appearance at all times. In both attire andbehavior, you should strive to demonstrate biblical standards in allsituations.As Christians, the way we present ourselves to others is of vitalimportance to the way others perceive Christ. Our conduct shouldnever be an embarrassment to Christ but should exemplify the bestqualities of a mature believer and servant-leader.Exemplifying the highest moral commitment, Ascend Churchleaders are to maintain a disciplined life of Bible reading, prayer, andfasting. You must also refrain from such things as:ProfanitySmoking or chewing tobaccoGamblingIndulging in much wine or other alcoholic beveragesDishonest gainIllicit drugsPornographySexual immorality (sexual activity outside of marriage)All behaviors which might cause Christ to grieve and othersto stumbleBy providing an example in speech and action, we encourage othersto grow in Christ and become servant-leaders themselves. This is away of life measured by the heart and commitment of each leaderin the Ascend Church family. We should regard it as an essentialpart of our development, not as an imposition or restriction.Ascend to Purpose 55