Sharon Schroeder: Children’s Ministry Changed My Life!

God used a little girl through AAC Children’s Ministry to reach out and speak to me! He changed my life that night. After 10 years of marriage, I was on the brink of a divorce. Confused and torn what to do, I asked myself, “Could this be what God wants?” “How do I know when God is speaking and it’s not just my mind or own wishes?”

After a couple weeks of attending AAC, I heard about the Awana ministry. That night, Pastor Mark Harris was hosting a Q&A session for the T&T kids. My own questions were running thru my mind again. Then this little T&T girl asked Pastor, "How do you know when what’s in your head is God speaking to you and not just something going on in your head?” I couldn’t believe my ears! God heard me. He was answering me through this little girl I did not even know. My heart pounded as Pastor Harris replied, “My suggestion is, you go to the Bible and if it’s written there, then you’ll know it is God speaking.” How simple, I knew what direction to take!

We just celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary! We’re both so grateful that God works through all kinds of Ministries at AAC. I know God even uses the AAC Children’s Ministries to speak right to people.

Support in Difficult Times:  Pete Carman

Last year I led a men’s group at AAC and I feel I got more out of the group than the other guys. These guys held each other accountable and supported one another through prayer. As we studied Scripture and learned to apply it to our lives, we became better men. My group supported me through a difficult job transition and we all made time to help each other with home improvement projects. We remain friends and know we can call each other any time, particularly in a time of need.

Mom’s and More Changed My Life:  Steph Riemer

Attending the Moms & More Bible Study at Appleton Alliance Church changed my life!  I had left my job and transitioned from career-minded professional into a stay-at-home mom.  It was a shocking switch; I felt unhappy and aimless amidst the chores of daily life and began asking God "where's the joy you promise?"

Through the study and fellowship with other Christian women, I came to realize what a fantastic opportunity I've been given to raise my children as Christians.  God’s has joy returned to me!

Full Circle - Tera Rogers

I first heard about salvation in 2nd grade after a friend invited me to AWANA. It was there that I surrendered my life to Christ. I later walked away from church but could always feel Jesus calling me back. It came full circle when I started attending Appleton Alliance and volunteering in Discovery Land—the very place that first changed my life. Every day since, Christ has been working in my life through the children and ministry at Appleton Alliance!

1 Timothy 4:12

Men’s Ministry: Ted Fellner

Men's Ministry at Appleton Alliance Church has made a big impact on me. The Quest for Authentic Manhood class I took this last year was excellent. The class definitely piqued my interest in Scripture and gave me an appreciation of how Scripture guides us in establishing and maintaining solid relationships. This class would be very beneficial for recently married men as it provides great insight into a man's vital role in marriage and the family!

Barb Gore:  God forgave me, I finally forgave myself

My sin was so horrific I buried it deep. I kept it secret for over 30 years. Little did I know the choice I made at age 19 would affect me the rest of my life. Guilt and shame are destructive, powerful emotions. If I couldn’t forgive myself, how could I ask for forgiveness from God?

I began attending Appleton Alliance Church at the invitation of a close friend. Shortly after I sought counseling services through AAC. I found strength and courage to face my secret. I confessed my sin and asked for His forgiveness. Realizing God forgave me, I finally forgave myself.

“My home is 60 miles from Appleton”: Rosie Putnam

I became acquainted with Appleton Alliance Church through friends. My home is 60 miles from Appleton and I worship at a small Bible church. Through the ministries of AAC, I participate in education and service opportunities that are just not available where I live. I listen to sermons and have completed the Spiritual Formation classes online. I enjoy fellowship when I am able and volunteer as opportunities present themselves.

God truly enriched and blessed my life through the ministries of AAC!

“I knew I needed to be here”: Jennifer Kelly

After my 26 year marriage ended in divorce, I needed more then just a church service.

I  joined Divorce Care at Appleton Alliance Church. The first time I walked into AAC, I felt at home and knew I needed to be here. People understood me. I was impressed by the class and leaders and looked into AAC further. I found XCEL Sports was having a camping trip for women. My daughter asked, "You're going camping? You don't know anyone!" No one from Divorce Care was going, but the women welcomed me with open arms.

After that weekend I became a member of AAC. My faith in God and AAC led me out of one of the hardest times of my life. I am blessed by the wonderful fellowship at my new church.

True Surrender: Jim Fulcer

The wonderful ministries of Appleton Alliance, along with the grace of God, has given me a chance to “truly” open my heart, hear his word, and surrender my life to Jesus. God worked through my family, friends, and people of AAC to reach out to me during difficult days. I was taught the goodness of God and to be anxious for nothing. I am so blessed now to walk in his path, as a new man of God!

Experiencing Death and Life:  Shawn Van Gompel

Eight years ago my best friend was diagnosed with cancer and given 2 weeks to live. We took her home and three months later she died.

Her will to survive and her spirit in Christ lead me to AAC. The first service left me thinking, "Wow, who knew church could have such great music?" I am surprised where God has brought me. I auditioned for the choir, not knowing any Christian songs. God had me there for another reason.

During my first season with the choir, several family members died and I held a 26 year old boy as he died from a car accident. God put people beside me to show me the way through this valley. God grabbed my heart to worship and put me in front of three great teachers to help me learn His word.

When I am singing it's hard to hold in the emotion of what my Father did for me and how grateful I am. Never would I have imagined that He has called me His own.