Author: Taylor McCoy

Greg & Janna Long joining Cottonwood Creek to lead Creek Worship Ministry

Allen, Texas – This Sunday, May 8, Greg & Janna Long will debut as leaders of the Cottonwood Creek Church worship ministry. Leading worship during both the 9:30 and 11 a.m. services each Sunday, the Longs will bring their musical talent and rich experience to Cottonwood Creek’s members at their campus in Allen, Texas, as well as their online community. Having led worship at Woodlands Church in Houston, Texas, for 11 years, the Longs are excited about the new opportunity to lead this talented, growing team.

In addition, the pair is part of the three time-Grammy-nominated Christian music foursome, Avalon.

Some of the Long’s many achievements from solo ministries and Avalon include:

  • 29 #1 Hit Songs
  • American Music Award
  • Millions of Albums Sold
  • Multiple GMA Dove Awards

Although they have traveled the world performing for many years, the Longs also have deep connections in Dallas.

“We’ve known Pastor John Mark and Pastor Scott Sanford for almost 20 years, and when you know people that long, you see their character revealed. They’re both people who genuinely love the Lord and have the desire to carry out His purpose,” said the Longs. “You want to work with people like that.”

Cottonwood Creek Senior Pastor, John Mark Caton, is thrilled to welcome the Longs to their staff. “The Creek Worship Ministry is growing,” said Caton. Under the leadership of the Longs, he feels confident the ministry will continue to expand and serve the church and community well.

“Greg & Janna are amazing additions to the team. They’re committed to the Gospel and to leading worship for the purpose of sharing that message of Jesus, and that’s what we’re all about at Cottonwood Creek,” said Caton.

As they join the Cottonwood Creek staff and take on the role of leading the Creek Worship Ministry, the Longs will relocate to the Dallas area with their three daughters and many pets.

No matter who you are or where you come from, Cottonwood Creek has a place and a ministry for you and your entire family.  Our desire is to do whatever it takes to bring the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community, our country and, ultimately, our world. For more information and worship times visit cottonwoodcreek.org or call 972.359.7777

Written by: Taylor McCoy

Greg & Janna Long to lead worship at Cottonwood Creek Church

Allen, Texas – Gentle melodies. Distinct rhythms. Smooth harmonies. Music is an influential, popular medium utilized by over 270 million Americans each day. April 24 at 9:30 and 11 a.m., acclaimed Christian singers Greg & Janna Long are bringing their powerful vocals to lead worship at Cottonwood Creek Church.

Following a massively successful Easter weekend that brought almost 7,000 people to the campus, Cottonwood Creek Senior Pastor John Mark Caton is elated to keep the momentum by welcoming the Longs to this weekend’s worship experience.

“Greg & Janna are talented performers who have so much experience leading worship. They create such an amazing atmosphere for those who are singing and praising the Lord with them, and I can’t wait to see God move through their songs this weekend,” said Caton.

Based in Houston, Texas, Greg & Janna are members of Avalon, a four-person Christian vocal group. Founded originally over 20 years ago, the group has performed in front of millions worldwide and earned critical acclaim on multiple occasions. Some of the group’s achievements include:

  • 3 Grammy Nominations 
  • 22 #1 Hit Songs
  • An American Music Award 
  • Millions of Albums Sold

The Long’s guest performance will coincide with the second week of Let’s Go!, a new series at Cottonwood Creek that challenges Christians to take their faith into the real world. This six-week series focuses on the book of Acts and includes a daily reading plan, available to read here https://ccfam.ly/letsgorp.

No matter who you are or where you come from, Cottonwood Creek has a place and a ministry for you and your entire family.  Our desire is to do whatever it takes to bring the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community, our country and, ultimately, our world. For more information and worship times visit cottonwoodcreek.org or call 972.359.7777

Written by: Taylor McCoy

The Gift 2021

Let us not become weary in doing good."

Galatians 6:9

Most Sundays, Cottonwood Creek is a place of worship, fellowship and fun. On The Gift Sunday, Cottonwood Creek transforms into a mission field. Thousands of members come together annually to serve the community in a variety of ways – from coat donations to meal packing, there’s always a place for everyone to serve, no matter age or ability!

This event is an opportunity to show the love of God to the community, as well as an excellent reminder of the importance of serving others. It’s amazing to see families, LifeGroups and friends gather to make a lasting impact.

Read on to learn more about each station at The Gift 2021!

Meal Packing

The largest station at The Gift saw over 715 Cottonwood Creek members work together to pack 112,000 meals. These meals will provide essential nutrition to people in need!

Carter Blood Care

Carter Blood Care accepted blood donations, which will provide treatment for people all over the state of Texas. Although many people fear needles, it was exciting to see 68 people donate blood this year – 39 more people than last year!

Ponytail Donation Station

One of the most exciting stations at the event was the Ponytail Donation Station, where 18 ponytails were donated to make wigs for cancer patients! Hair donation is extremely important because of the sense of comfort and normalcy wigs can bring to those who lose their hair during cancer treatments.

Winter Coat Drive

At the Operation Care International Coat Collection station, 6 boxes of coats were collected for those in need of a warm winter jacket. Operation Care International is an organization committed to glorifying God on an international level by meeting spiritual and physical needs.

Operation Christmas Child

A cornerstone of The Gift is Operation Christmas Child, where volunteers are able to donate Christmas presents to children all over the world. Operation Christmas Child is a ministry project run by Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian organization that provides physical and/or spiritual aid to people in need. 

Christmas Card Station

At the Christmas Card Station, participants were asked to choose either a missionary or an orphan to create a card for. Card makers were also given a first name and photo, so that they can continue to pray for their card recipient throughout the holiday season. Volunteers at this station created over 200 cards!

Naomi's village

In addition to making Christmas Cards, volunteers were invited to sponsor orphans from Naomi’s Village, a children’s home in Kenya. By symbolically adopting a child from Naomi’s Village, volunteers pledged to fund costs for education, nutritionally-balanced meals and more. This year, 60 children were adopted, breaking the record for the most children sponsored at one time at any church in the history of this organization!

We are so grateful for everyone who served at the Gift 2021. It’s astounding to see the Cottonwood Creek family work to share the love and grace of the Gospel through service, and we can’t wait to watch the impact of this weekend unfold over the coming year!

See More Photos.....

Written By: Taylor McCoy

10 Landmines to Avoid in the Land of Social Media

Whether we like it or not, we live in the land of social media and, like an old minefield, it’s dangerous. As Christians, we need biblical wisdom. We need to realize that although things may be acceptable in the world’s eyes, not everything is beneficial or constructive (1 Corinthians 10:23). Additionally, as we live our lives, Jesus calls us to be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16).

How do we begin to live in the wisdom of God as we cross such a hostile land? Let’s open the book of Proverbs and identify ten different lies that social media tries to pass as truth.

1. Social Media Networks Have Your Best at Heart

My son, pay attention to my wisdom, turn your ear to my words of insight, 2 that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. 3 For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; 4 but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. 5 Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. 6 She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths wander aimlessly, but she does not know it. 

Proverbs 5:1 

The people who run social media are not for you, they are for themselves. On one hand, you are a consumer buying their product. On the other, you are a product they are selling to other companies. Social media is not neutral – this shouldn’t surprise us because the institution of sin has been this way since the beginning.

In the book of Proverbs, wisdom and folly are given human characteristics, and lady folly plays the adulterer. Her ways are sweet, smooth, enticing and convincing, but they always leads to death. As social media institutions seek their own profits, they sell you smooth and sweet lies about the usefulness of their tool, but even they don’t know the destructive destiny of their path.

How do you avoid this landmine?

Understand that social media is not neutral, which means that you must always be on your guard.

2. Social Media Provides an Accurate Description of Reality

Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. 9 Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

Proverbs 30:8–9

From news articles to long lost friends, your social media feed is only a tiny, tailored slice of reality. It’s a game of smoke and mirrors and spinning the truth. Social media gives you a skewed perspective on reality and, unsurprisingly, causes you to evaluate the whole of your life against a perfected portion of others. But what does this proverb say? If you want to live in wisdom, you need to learn to be content with what you have.

How do you avoid this landmine?

You must believe the Lord has provided everything you need to be content and happy. Further, you need to understand that social media gives you a false picture of the whole of reality.

3. Social Media Will Help You Relax and Rest

The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

Proverbs 19:23

How many times do you mindlessly screen scroll trying to rest and relax? Did you know that scrolling through your social media platform has the exact opposite effect on your life? Studies show that social media use causes you to get less sleep, feel more anxious and stressed and makes your brain continue to work.

According to this proverb, it is only the fear, respect, reverence and worship of the Lord that will bring you life. Since Genesis Chapter 3, sin has brought toil, stress, hardship and restlessness, but God has provided humanity true rest through His Son Jesus.

How do we avoid this landmine?

Understand that social media will not help you rest and relax. Further, believe that Jesus is calling you into a deeper relationship with him, and He is the only way to have true rest (Matthew 11:28–30).

4. You Don't Need to Limit Your Time on Social Media

The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

Proverbs 13:4

The average American spends 142 minutes on social media platforms every single day. In truth, these platforms are doing exactly what they were created for: consuming as much of your time as possible. This is time you will never get back.

To live in wisdom, you must learn to number your days (Psalm 90:12). Notice the warning in the proverb above – the lazy person is one who wastes their time on fulfilling the bottomless appetite. This means that in the context of social media, you will never be satisfied as long as you remain stuck in a time wasting loop.

How do you avoid this landmine?

Understand that a sluggard’s appetite is never filled and the Lord is always calling you to something greater to do with your time. From a practical standpoint, keep a log of how much time you spend on social platforms.

5. All of the Hearts and Like are Valuable

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. 19 Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.

Proverbs 16:18

Your self-worth is not determined by your online interactions. According to some of its creators, social media attempts to create a dopamine-driven, social validation feedback loop by hacking human psychology. But this brittle, conflated sense of value leaves users vacant and empty.

From a biblical perspective, when you run to social media to find personal validation, you are stuck in a pride loop. However, the Bible reminds you that your value and worth are not dependent upon what you do but on the image that you bear (Genesis 1:26–28).

How do you avoid this landmine?

Understand that you will never find satisfaction in “hearts and likes,” and your value has already been determined by God.

6. What You Consume on Social Media is Harmless

With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. 22 All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer[a] stepping into a noose[b] 23     till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life. 24 Now then, my sons, listen to me; pay attention to what I say. 25 Do not let your heart turn to her ways or stray into her paths. 26 Many are the victims she has brought down; her slain are a mighty throng. 27 Her house is a highway to the grave, leading down to the chambers of death.

Proverbs 7:21–27

According to this proverb, it’s foolish to live as though this seductive adulteress called “social media” won’t affect you. Remember why they call it a social media “feed” in the first place: because that is your diet. You are shaped by what you consume.

How do we avoid this landmine?

Understand the dangers of your social media feed and believe that your character is being shaped by the information you take in. Additionally, attempt to shape the content on your feed by interacting with (likes, hearts, shares, comments, posts, etc.) wholesome and edifying content.

7. Posts, Comments and Online Interactions are Meaningless

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. 24 Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.

Proverbs 4:23–24

Social media platforms often provide a veil for the coward. People take to comments and posts, saying things online they would never say to someone’s face. If we aren’t careful, we can begin to think that our online interactions mean less than our in-person interactions, or that our online interactions aren’t truly a reflection of our hearts.

This is a lie. Jesus reminds us that the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart (Luke 6:45). In other words, anything you type, post or comment reflects what is in your heart.

How do you avoid this landmine?

Understand that you will be held accountable for everything you post and interact with online. A heart captivated by Jesus will be encouraging, loving, quiet, restorative and forgiving, no matter the platform.

8. Social Media Keeps You in the Know About Everything

Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.

Proverbs 27:23

Have you ever felt like you can’t get away from social media because you will miss out on something? Unfortunately, it is this kind of thinking that leads you to worry about gossip and news that you can’t do anything about.

This proverb is a good reminder – you don’t have to be in the know on all the other stuff because you are responsible and will be held accountable for the stuff in your life. If all your energy, thoughts, emotions, and time go elsewhere, then you end up neglecting the condition of your own flocks.

How do we avoid this landmine?

Understand that you are responsible with what the Lord has entrusted to you. Don’t get worked up about things that have no eternal significance and that you can’t do anything about.

9. Social Media is a Good Avenue for Deep Relationships

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

Proverbs 17:17

Your friends on social media are distant friends at best. These platforms fail to provide deep, meaningful and impactful relationship because they are limited.

Proverbs 17 reminds us that you are called to always love others with endurance and patience. As these platforms cater to the good and pretty sides of life, deep relationships require you to know the bad, ugly and hard sides of life too. To put it differently, they require both your commitment and time.

How do we avoid this landmine?

Understand that social media will never be a full substitute for deep relationships. Deep relationships require physical presence: in hospital rooms, living rooms, over coffee, providing meals and holding hands as you pray, cry and laugh together.

10. Social Media is Better than What is Happening Right in Front of You

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.

Proverbs 27:1

In many ways, this landmine serves as a conclusion. Social media is designed to distract you, promising you peace and rest as you spend more and more time sucked into the meaningless vortex. However, in getting sucked into this virtual world, you miss what the Lord is doing all around you and you end up boasting in tomorrow.

How do we avoid this landmine?

Understand that what is right in front of you is always better than what’s digitally in your pocket. Be still and enjoy the God who is always around you. What if the reason you haven’t heard from God recently is because the world is talking louder in your life than He is?

Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.

Proverbs 4:25

The land of social media is a minefield and, unfortunately, it’s here to stay. We must learn to identify the landmines and live in God’s wisdom. If we use this ancient wisdom in the land of social media, we can aim to use these tools for good. However, if we fail to heed these warnings, the deadly consequences are inevitable.

*This blog post has been condensed and modified from a sermon presented on Oct. 23, 2021. To view the full sermon, check out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tM0fsKperNw

Written by: Beau Landers

Dave & Ann Wilson to host marriage date night at Cottonwood Creek Church

Allen, Texas – Whether single, dating, engaged or married, everyone needs help navigating the sometimes confusing and often complex world of relationships. Nov. 5 at 7 p.m., renowned marriage coaches Dave & Ann Wilson will visit Cottonwood Creek Church to host Vertical Marriage Date Night.

Vertical Marriage Date Night is based on Vertical Marriage, a book written by the Wilsons to help couples struggling in their marriages. However, this date night isn’t just for married couples – it’s for anyone looking to learn how to create healthy romantic relationships by prioritizing a relationship with God.

Tickets for this impactful event are available here. Regular admission tickets cost $20, and VIP tickets cost $45. VIP admission includes exclusive seating during the event and a special Q&A session with Dave and Ann following the event.

Credit: VERTICAL FIRST MEDIA

The inspiration for Vertical Marriage Date Night came from Dave & Ann’s own experiences – the couple went through a period of time in their relationship where they felt divorce was a moment’s notice away. After working through their own relationship struggles, the Wilsons decided to begin traveling the country together to show couples that God can take broken relationships and restore them into vibrant marriages. They address topics including:

  • Marital conflict
  • How to put God first in your relationship
  • God’s plan for mariage
  • Connection with God as a couple
  • Your roles as partners and as husband and wife
  • How you can refocus when you know your marriage is on the wrong track
  • Loving your spouse through hard times and life changes

Cottonwood Creek Marriage Ministers Kathy & Robert Bennett are ecstatic to host the Wilsons and feel they will make an amazing impact on attendees. “Dave & Ann Wilson are qualified marriage coaches who have a special ability to share marriage tips and skills from real life marriage experiences,” said Kathy Bennett. “They are an authentic, humorous couple, and they’re so much fun to listen to.  We can’t wait for them to visit Cottonwood Creek and share the single most important ingredient for a vibrant and joy-filled marriage.”

If you are interested in attending Vertical Marriage Date Night, find more information or buy your ticket now by texting DATE to 77978, or visiting https://ccfam.ly/date.

In addition to events like Vertical Marriage Date Night, the Marriage Ministry at Cottonwood Creek provides marriage counseling, bible studies and more! If you are interested in getting involved with the Marriage Ministry, click here.

No matter who you are or where you come from, Cottonwood Creek has a place and a ministry for you and your entire family.  Our desire is to do whatever it takes to bring the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community, our country and, ultimately, our world. For more information and worship times visit cottonwoodcreek.org or call 972.359.7777

Written by: Taylor McCoy

Cottonwood Creek Chapel shines pink in support of those impacted by cancer

Allen, Texas – Cancer. A diagnosis that may seem unlikely, but a reality 40% of Americans will face. During the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Chapel at Cottonwood Creek is illuminated pink to show support for those battling cancer. This support extends inside the building, where the Cancer Care Ministry works to provide resources to cancer warriors and their families.

Year-round, the Cottonwood Creek Cancer Care Ministry provides support for those struggling with cancer through a team of dedicated volunteers. This support includes inspirational cards and prayer, as well as a care bag filled with a prayer-blessed blanket, inspirational books, an encouraging CD, information on what cancer can’t do and a mask.

Cancer Care Ministry Director Dave Williams expressed the importance of supporting those battling cancer. “A cancer diagnosis can make you feel isolated, frightened… alone. But you are not alone. God is there with you, first and always. Cottonwood Creek’s Cancer Care Ministry’s mission is to offer God’s hope and love for those facing the challenges of cancer,” said Williams.

One book included in the care bag is Cancer – Now What?, by Kenneth Haugk Ph.D., which includes invaluable resources and advice on managing treatment and relating to family and friends after a cancer diagnosis. Some of the topics in this book include:

  • How to talk to others about your diagnosis.
  • Healthy ways to manage the variety of emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis.
  • Where you can find information and questions you can ask your doctor to be more informed.
  • Understanding the next steps in your treatment plan.
  • Caring for yourself and defining yourself apart from cancer.
  • Advice on finding counseling and additional support.
  • Becoming an advocate for other cancer warriors.

“Our volunteers are survivors who faced their cancer journey with faith and want to make a difference in the lives of others. It is our desire to honestly and sincerely practice the second commandment principle “Love Your Neighbor As Yourself” so that No One Faces Cancer Alone,” said Williams.

For anyone looking to get involved in the effort to support cancer warriors, the Cancer Care Ministry has opportunities for both volunteers and donations to their programs.  If you would like to become a volunteer in the Cancer Care Ministry, please email Dave Williams at cancersupport@cottonwoodcreek.org.

If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed or is currently struggling with cancer, get connected with the Cancer Care Ministry by texting CANCER to 77978.

No matter who you are or where you come from, Cottonwood Creek has a place and a ministry for you and your entire family.  Our desire is to do whatever it takes to bring the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community, our country and, ultimately, our world. For more information and worship times visit cottonwoodcreek.org or call 972.359.7777

Written by: Taylor McCoy

Cottonwood Creek works with LifePath Systems LOSS Program to impact suicide survivors

Allen, Texas – In Texas, someone dies by suicide once every two hours, and suicide is the 11th leading cause of death. With these sobering statistics in mind, Cottonwood Creek Church partnered with the LifePath Systems LOSS Program, an initiative that provides care and resources to those impacted by suicide.

During the month of August, Cottonwood Creek’s Check-In For Charity missions project focused on raising funds to support the LOSS program, which provides resources to suicide survivors through the support of volunteers and mental health professionals. Cottonwood Creek pledged to contribute $1 to the LifePath Systems Foundation each time anyone checked in to the church on Facebook. 

On Sept. 1, 2021, Missions & Connections Pastor Justin Hillhouse was honored to present the LifePath Systems Foundation with a $15,000 donation to help them continue their life-changing work. This donation coincides with the conclusion of “I’m Not Okay,” Cottonwood Creek Church’s sermon series on mental health. During the series, Cottonwood Creek saw an influx of people who related to the series, and it became clear that the mental health of the community has to be a priority.

LifePath Systems Behavioral Health Director Danielle Sneed expressed her excitement at the opportunities increased funding will bring suicide survivors in Collin County. “Currently, our LOSS program volunteers reach out to suicide survivors within seven days of a loss. With this donation, we are going to begin our transition to a 24-hour response team that will provide immediate support,” said Sneed. “Family members who are impacted by suicide often delay processing their grief, so our goal is to help them begin their road to recovery as soon as possible.”

For anyone looking to get involved in the effort to support suicide survivors, LifePath Systems has opportunities for both volunteers and donations to their programs. For volunteers, there are a multitude of opportunities, including disaster response, the LOSS Team, recreational activities, office support and more. Find more information on volunteer opportunities here or donate here.

If you or someone you know are struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, Cottonwood Creek is here to offer support, counseling services and anything else we can provide. Text CONNECT to 77978 to receive the support you need. 

Additionally, text BOOK to 77978 to receive a free copy of Pastor John Mark Caton’s book, Last Call – Suicide: An Unfinished Life.

The LifePath Foundation is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for individuals and families impacted by behavioral health, intellectual and developmental challenges in Collin County, resulting in stronger communities. Visit https://lifepathfoundation.org for more information regarding the LifePath Foundation and ways to get involved.

No matter who you are or where you come from, Cottonwood Creek has a place and a ministry for you and your entire family.  Our desire is to do whatever it takes to bring the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community, our country and, ultimately, our world. For more information and worship times visit cottonwoodcreek.org or call 972.359.7777

Cottonwood Creek fights hunger with North Texas Food Bank

Allen, Texas – With 138,000 people experiencing food insecurity in Collin County, it is necessary to address nutrition as a serious community issue. In response, Cottonwood Creek Church partnered with North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) to raise funds and fight hunger.

During the month of July, Cottonwood Creek’s Check-In For Charity initiative focused on raising funds to support NTFB, which provides meals and nutrition information to those in need. Over the course of the month, Cottonwood Creek pledged to contribute 3 meals each time anyone checked in to the church on Facebook, which added up to 45,000 meals.

As longtime partners, Cottonwood Creek Church has participated in multiple initiatives to support NTFB, including food drives, regular donations and volunteer efforts. Trisha Cunningham, NTFB President & CEO, regularly works with Cottonwood Creek, and even produced a video with Senior Pastor John Mark Caton during Dec. 2020 to highlight the increased food insecurity issues caused by the global pandemic during the holiday season.

Information provided by North Texas Food Bank.

For anyone looking to get involved in the fight against hunger, every dollar donated to NTFB provides three meals to those in need. Additionally, individuals have the option to donate food directly, and there are always community programs that need volunteers. Finally, be on the lookout for the next Cottonwood Creek initiative to help NTFB provide balanced meals to feed food insecure kids, teens, adults and seniors in Collin County.

No matter who you are or where you come from, Cottonwood Creek has a place and a ministry for you and your entire family.  Our desire is to do whatever it takes to bring the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our community, our country and, ultimately, our world. For more information and worship times visit cottonwoodcreek.org or call 972.359.7777

Written by: Taylor McCoy

Care Groups creating community at Cottonwood Creek

FALL CARE GROUPS 2021

Care Groups at Cottonwood Creek are a part of our Care Ministry, a truly special group of people that seeks to enrich and uplift the lives of others. From dealing with the loss of a loved one to handling the aftermath of a divorce, our Care Groups are here and ready to help you process whatever struggle you’re experiencing. This Fall, Care Groups are back in full swing, and there are plenty of options to get involved, depending on your needs. Find more information below:

CANCER CARE

MEETINGS BEGINNING THIS SEPT.

Our Cancer Care Ministry is a Care Group dedicated to supporting those diagnosed with cancer and their families. If you are a current cancer patient, cancer survivor, family member of a cancer warrior or you know someone who needs to feel the support of a God-centered community during their cancer journey, reach out to Dave Williams.

“I truly think you were put in our path at just the right time. My husband has been struggling about beginning the next round of chemo… after hearing your story, he said he will do it and be focused on preventative for the future. We really appreciate what you and your ministry are doing for people.” 

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

MONDAYS | 7 P.M. | CHAPEL

Celebrate Recovery is safe space for those recovering from addictions, habits and hang-ups, where they can receive encouragement and learn God’s will in their life. You are welcome no matter your backstory!

“After I completed rehab, I returned home and found Celebrate Recovery at Cottonwood Creek. This is where I found a forever family that loved me just like I was with no condemnation about my past.”

“I can and do walk with Him each day in freedom from addiction and many of the hurts and habits that kept me from knowing Him and what love really is.”

DIVORCECARE

WEDNESDAYS | ON-CAMPUS | 6:30 P.M. | STARTING SEPT. 8

DivorceCare is a group dedicated to supporting those who are going through or experiencing the aftermath of divorce. This group will meet weekly in-person, with a new session beginning in September. Please email divorcecare@cottonwoodcreek.org if you have questions.

DIVORCECARE4KIDS

WEDNESDAYS | ON-CAMPUS | 6:30 P.M. | STARTING SEPT. 8

This group helps children walk through the confusion and fear of divorce with supportive adults and biblical guidance that will ultimately help them draw into the comfort and ultimate reliability of Jesus.

“Enrolling my kids in this program is one of the best things I’ve ever done.” 

“My kids are opening up and talking about their feelings.” 

“As I tucked my son in bed, he said, ‘Mommy, I know it’s not my fault.’” 

GRACE GROUPS

THURSDAYS | 6:30 P.M. | ZOOM | ON-CAMPUS STARTING AUG. 24

Living Grace is the only Grace Group currently meeting, and they will meet weekly on Zoom. Living Grace Group is a group is for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. Come and enjoy a nonjudgmental space where believers share their mental health struggles. Please email gracegroup@cottonwoodcreek.org if you have questions, or register here. 

GREIFSHARE

WEDNESDAYS | ON-CAMPUS | 6:30 P.M. | STARTING SEPT. 8

GriefShare is a group that offers love, acceptance and guidance to those processing grief. Whether you’re in the first stages of grief, or you need to process pain from a past loss, this group is filled with people who can relate and a leader who will help you look to God for guidance in processing your grief. If you have questions, contact Meredith Jackson, or register here. 

“The caring, encouragement and support I encountered in the group was a balm to my deeply grieving soul.” 

“Going to GriefShare feels like having warm arms wrapped around you when you’re shivering. At GriefShare, you are safe.” 

WARRIORS OF FAITH

INITIAL MEETING SEPT. 8 AT 7 P.M. IN ROOM A232 | STARTING OCT. MEETING 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH

This ministry seeks to offer God’s hope and love through spiritual, emotional and practical support to those who have served in the Armed Forces. Connect with others that have served and grow in the study of God’s word. Please email ron.schrock@cottonwoodcreek.org with questions or to register.

WOVEN

MEETING ON ZOOM

Woven’s mission is to support, care and educate our church in caring for children. If you a foster or adoptive parent, this group is here to support you and your family as you embark on or continue this journey! If you are interested in join this group, please contact Terra Towne.

SERVE IN THE CARE MINISTRY

CHECK OUT CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES!

  • Group leader/facilitator for GriefShare (recovering from grief)
  • Accepting applications for Stephen Minister training (those wanting to be trained as a Stephen Minister)
  • Cancer Ministry is looking for a Card Coordinator
  • DivorceCare4Kids is open for volunteers to assist the leader
  • Warriors of Faith is looking to add leaders (must be a veteran to serve in this group)

If you are interested, contact Ron Schrock for next steps.

Written By: Taylor Plate

Cottonwood Creek Church executive pastor, Scott Sanford, authors Bill protecting religious liberties in Texas

Allen, Texas – On June 15, 2021, Governor Greg Abbott signed the Freedom to Worship Act into law. This legislation was authored by Texas House Rep. Scott Sanford to protect places of worship from government-mandated closures.

Sanford, who also serves as an executive pastor at Cottonwood Creek Church in Allen, Texas, saw his church close due to COVID-19 pandemic mandates. During the aftermath of this shutdown, Sanford witnessed the toll it took on congregations barred from gathering to worship.

As he began to write the Freedom to Worship Act, Sanford knew he was creating a document essential in protecting First Amendment religious freedoms. “As a Pastor and Christian, I was honored to author this important legislation,” Sanford stated.

With this law in place, local churches can remain confident that no government official will prevent them from gathering together to worship. “Local churches need to have peace of mind during emergencies that government officials are not going to close their worship spaces,” said Sanford.

Scott Sanford has served as a staff member at Cottonwood Creek Church for 24 years and has served as a Texas State Representative since 2013. He serves on several Texas House committees: Ways & Means, Public Education and House Administration.

Rep. Sanford holds the recently signed HB 1239 alongside Governor Abbott.

Written By: Taylor Plate