In September, our very own Pastors Chuck Allen and Bobby McGraw published “Grow Your Faith: A Little Guide to Bigger Faith,” and we gave away more than 1,300 copies in our services. It's been so cool to hear how God is using this little book to help so many deepen their relationships with Him. Whether you’re a new believer or a seasoned Christian, this inspiring and practical book is designed to empower you to live out your faith with passion and intentionality.

Over the last six months of the year, our worship team released a brand new song each month for a total of 5 Sugar Hill Worship original songs and one cover of one of our favorite Christmas songs. It has been so meaningful to sing these songs together that are born out of the Word of God, and from the testimony of God at work within this body of Jesus followers. We hope they bless you and serve as a reminder of who God is and what He has done!

The Weekday Podcast offers a powerful start to each day, helping listeners center themselves with encouragement and wisdom from God’s word. In just five minutes, it creates a meaningful space for reflection and intention, making it easy to incorporate faith into daily routines. Many listeners find that these moments provide strength and clarity, equipping them to handle the challenges of each day with a positive and grounded mindset. By consistently tuning in, they experience a deeper connection to their faith and a renewed sense of purpose throughout the week.

This podcast offers a refreshing perspective in a world often dominated by negativity, helping listeners find peace and purpose amid life’s challenges. Each week, Chuck and Julie’s integration of faith and psychology brings valuable insights for emotional and spiritual growth. Listeners gain practical tools and relatable guidance, empowering them to build resilience and optimism. With every episode, the podcast inspires its audience to grow into their best selves, fostering a balanced and fulfilling life.

Rock Sunday has become a powerful tradition around Sugar Hill Church. This year, we spent this month of January reflecting and discerning what God wanted to do in each of our lives in 2024. We ended the month with Rock Sunday, where we each had the opportunity to write a word we felt God had given us for the year on a rock, symbolizing a focus or promise that we felt led to embrace. The rock serves as a tangible reminder of God’s guidance throughout the year, empowering individuals to live out their word with purpose and trust.

Going into Easter this year, we prayed that 2,000 people would attend and hear the life-changing news of Jesus and His resurrection. We saw the Lord answer beyond what we could ask or imagine, with a total of 2,768 coming to celebrate the life we have in Jesus together. The Easter gatherings had a profound impact, with 100 guests experiencing message of hope and renewal. Even more exciting, 102 people gave their lives to Jesus, and 34 individuals expressed interest in baptism, signifying a desire for deeper faith and spiritual growth. We're so grateful for how God worked through the gatherings to help so many people take next steps in their faith journeys.

This year, we’ve witnessed God’s presence and power in incredible ways during moments of prayer in our services. Each gathering has brought a profound sense of connection, as individuals join together in faith, lifting their voices and hearts to Him. These times of prayer have not only strengthened our community but have also inspired personal transformations, healing, and renewed hope. We are grateful for the ways God has moved among us, reminding us of His faithfulness and the power of prayer to bring lasting change.

We love to celebrate together as a church family, and one of the ways we do that is with "Super Sundays." These special Sundays—whether it’s Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, a summer gathering, or our Pastor's birthdays—are filled with fun, gratitude, and togetherness. Each event creates an opportunity to honor our community, build connections, and celebrate the wonderful people who make our church feel like home. We love the feeling of community that comes from enjoying something special together.

This year's upgrades to our church facilities have enhanced the comfort, safety, and functionality of our building for our community. The addition of 2,400 sq. ft. of indoor/outdoor space in the backyard will provide a dedicated, inviting area for students and group gatherings. Major safety improvements, including a new access control system and updated exterior doors, along with a new roof for buildings A and B help to maintain a secure environment for everyone. Additionally, upgrades to the Worship Center's HVAC system and refreshed baptism dressing rooms create a more welcoming and comfortable space for worship and special moments.

Our partnership with Gwinnett County Schools is truly a privilege. Through initiatives like the Backpack Project, Christmas gift sponsorships, and serving as first responders for school counselors and administrators helping families navigate difficult circumstances, we help address critical needs and promote student well-being. We had the opportunity to help create a mentorship program for middle school boys, film character development videos for elementary schools, and We also show love and gratitude to our educators with events like teacher appreciation coffee bars and breakfasts. We are honored to have received the 2024-2025 Georgia School Counselors Association Business Partner Award, and are looking forward to continuing the lasting, positive impact that comes from being able to partner with our local schools.

Sugar Hill Church is dedicated to supporting over 60 students in the Peachtree Village neighborhood through our partnership with Path United. Our committed volunteers meet with elementary through high school students at least twice a week, offering homework assistance and mentorship. Beyond academics, these sessions are about building trust and creating lasting, positive relationships that empower students to succeed. Through this partnership, we aim to be a consistent source of encouragement and guidance, helping each student grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Pastor Chuck’s role as Chaplain for the Gwinnett Police Department offers vital emotional and spiritual support to officers and families facing traumatic events. By responding to emergency calls, he provides a compassionate presence that helps individuals process grief and find strength in times of crisis. In addition to his immediate support, he and our Beyond team also organize gatherings and meals throughout the year to show appreciation and gratitude for our police officers for their service to our community.

At the beginning of 2024, we launched a brand new Foster Care Ministry, and 35 families responded to the need. Three of those families immediately started the process to receive foster kids this year. We partner with various agencies to walk families through the process and support them from start to completion. We also build support teams to assist foster families with prayer, financial assistance, respite care, meal support, and mental and emotional health support.

After the tragic 2022 shooting in Uvalde, we felt a strong calling to support the community in its journey of healing. Partnering with Crossroads Academy High School, we’ve been able to assist in facility improvements and foster relationships with students and families who have faced unique challenges. This year, we celebrated the graduation of 55 students! We also engaged with Border Patrol and local authorities, helping to bridge tensions and honor those protecting the community. By providing Christmas gifts, hosting events, and bringing uplifting experiences, we aim to bring moments of joy and light to Uvalde as they continue to move forward.

We believe that the Church, the body of Christ, is God's plan to change the world, and we should work together. Over the year, we invested in 150 different churches on their church progress through a pastor program, partnered with a church plant in Denver, assisted a church in Tennessee in launching a new marriage ministry with 300+ in attendance, and Pastor Bobby is leading strategic vision retreat this month in the Midwest/Chicago for 58 different churches. We also partnered financially with Practicing the Way, who provide free spiritual formation resources to 7,486 churches all across the United States and in 122 other countries around the world.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, our immediate response included providing  water, fuel, and groceries to churches in North Augusta to assist in bringing immediate relief and meeting basic needs. Meanwhile, we’re also coordinating with organizations in North Carolina to stay updated on recovery needs. As conditions improve, we’ll assess when our Home Repair Ministry team can step in to help with longer-term rebuilding efforts.

We have partnered with Untold (formerly Care FOR Aids) in the Kisumu region of Kenya since 2012! Since that time, the work has grown to include 4 countries, 12 regions, over 100 church centers, with 42,141 program graduates representing 108,000 dependent children who are no longer at risk of being orphaned.

We have joined forces with Mission House to minister to 15 Mayan villages in the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula. These are literally unreached areas where in most cases people have never heard about Jesus and salvation in Him. Our goal is to plant a church in every village that doesn’t have one yet, establish a water purification plant in strategic locations to provide clean drinking water for over 10,000 people, and assist in critical needs that improve their quality of life, such as medical and dental clinics, pregnancy clinic, computer training, promoting organized sports initiatives, ESL for tourism industry training, entrepreneurial and vocational training, and more.

Pastor Bobby conducted leadership training to equip individuals in an international evangelistic ministry, empowering them to grow as leaders in their own communities. By sharing practical skills and insights, he helped participants gain confidence in their ability to lead and connect with others. This training equips them to reach more people, deepening the ministry’s impact around the world.

We love celebrating stories of life change through baptism, and Bridget's story is no exception. Before finding Christ, Bridget struggled with feelings of not belonging, which led to depression and anxiety. After switching schools and meeting friends who invited her to Sugar Hill Church, she found a welcoming community that transformed her life. Consistently attending church and connecting with others helped Bridget feel true happiness and deepened her relationship with Christ. She ultimately chose to give her life to Jesus, finding joy, strength, and gratitude with the support of her small group, family, and friends.

Several times a semester, we go all-out with our Wednesday Night programming - think color wars, dance parties, inflatables, costume contests, and more! These high-energy events make a lasting impact by creating an environment where students can invite their friends - 88 students came to our programming for the very first time through one of these events. They are designed to foster a sense of community, where students can feel a sense of belonging and be encouraged to grow in a joyful, inclusive space. With each event, we strengthen the bond within our Student Ministry, and students eagerly look forward to them each semester.

Over Spring Break, we took 25 students on our first international student mission trip with our partners, Mission House International.Through hands-on outreach, they experienced firsthand the power of serving others while sharing God's love in practical ways. The trip not only impacted the communities Mission House serves, but also deeply transformed our students, broadening their perspectives and deepening their faith. By stepping into this mission, our students returned with a renewed sense of purpose, a greater appreciation for different cultures, and a stronger commitment to living out their faith in their own communities.

Getting away from the routine and distractions of everyday life creates a powerful environment for students to focus on building meaningful friendships and hearing truth from God’s Word. Our 2024 Winter Retreat provided the perfect opportunity for 119 Middle and High Schoolers to experience this mid-year refresh. By stepping into a setting dedicated to spiritual growth and connection, students were able to deepen their faith and bond with one another in new ways. These retreats offer a much-needed pause, allowing students to return to their routines with renewed energy, perspective, and a stronger sense of community.

Middle School is a pivotal time of growth and development, filled with unique challenges that shape students in profound ways. Our fall retreat, designed specifically for 6th-8th graders, provides a focused opportunity for students to step away from their daily routines and connect with one another. Through a mix of engaging worship, small group activities, and exciting games like 9 square in the air, basketball, and disc golf, students have a chance to bond and build lasting friendships. This retreat sets the tone for the school year, helping students grow in their faith and develop deeper connections with their peers and small group leaders.

Student Summer Camp is a pivotal experience in our Student Ministry, offering a unique break from the usual rhythm of life. It provides students with the chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and fully immerse themselves in powerful worship and meaningful teaching from God’s Word. Beyond spiritual growth, students forge new friendships and strengthen existing bonds, creating a sense of community that lasts long after the camp ends. With unforgettable experiences and lasting memories, Summer Camp becomes a transformative moment for students, deepening their faith and connections with one another.

On Sunday mornings, our students come together in Middle School and High School table groups to read and discuss portions of scripture, fostering a deeper understanding of God’s Word. This time allows students to engage with scripture in a meaningful way, asking questions and sharing insights in a supportive environment. Through these discussions, students build a strong foundation of biblical knowledge that strengthens their faith. These gatherings also create opportunities for connection, as students grow together in their walk with God and with one another.

Sunday mornings offer students a chance to serve and make a real difference in the church community. Through roles in Kids Ministry, the Welcome Home team, and High Schoolers leading Middle School table groups, students develop a heart for service while using their gifts to impact others. These opportunities allow them to grow in leadership, responsibility, and compassion as they help create a welcoming and supportive environment for all. By serving in these ways, students not only contribute to the church but also strengthen their own faith and sense of purpose.

Graduating high school marks a life-changing transition, and it can be both exciting and intimidating for students and their families. Sugar Hill Students makes graduation unforgettable by honoring seniors with a special Graduate Recognition Day, where our class of 2024 received encouragement and support from their entire church community. The day also included a banquet for the graduates and their families, hosted by staff and small group leaders, to celebrate their accomplishments and growth. It was a powerful day that sent students off feeling celebrated and supported as they stepped into adulthood.

GriefShare and DivorceCare groups provide compassionate support for those navigating the pain of loss or separation, creating a safe space for healing. Through guided discussions, participants find comfort in shared experiences and encouragement from others who understand their journey. These groups offer practical tools, spiritual guidance, and coping strategies to help individuals process difficult emotions and move forward with hope. By fostering a sense of community, GriefShare and DivorceCare help people rebuild their lives, knowing they don’t have to face their challenges alone.

This grief journal was created out of the Pastor Neil's own journey through profound loss, following the death of his daughter, Heather. It offers a structured, 30-day devotional journey through Psalms, specifically chosen to guide readers through their grief with passages that brought comfort to Pastor Neil in his darkest hours. Each day includes a Psalm to read, thoughts to meditate on, and space for personal reflection, inviting grieving families to find solace and hope in God’s presence. With a foundation in faith and community, this journal aims to be a companion that gently encourages healing through God’s word and the support of others who have walked this difficult path.

This fall, we launched Restore Narcotics Anonymous ministry. Restore offers a vital support system for individuals battling addiction, helping them find hope and strength to pursue recovery. Through regular meetings and mentorship, participants gain access to a compassionate community that understands their struggles and encourages positive change. This ministry not only provides accountability and guidance but also fosters a sense of belonging that is crucial for long-term recovery. By offering a safe space and practical resources, the Narcotics Anonymous ministry empowers individuals to rebuild their lives and inspires them to support others on similar journeys.

This women’s devotional, written by the ladies on the church staff, is a heartfelt journey through the stories of women in the Gospel of Luke. Inspired by a calling to share God’s Word, each contributor brings a unique perspective, relating personally to the women they study and offering insights for personal growth and faith. The devotional encourages readers to experience God’s power and wisdom, showing how Scripture can transform lives and renew minds. By fostering a deep connection to God’s Word, this study aims to inspire women to embrace God’s purpose for their lives.

In November, we had a special Sunday service at Lanier High School for our Español congregation to create an environment where our whole community could worship together. Seeing our community, our schools, and even local leaders come together in one place to worship God was something unique. It was a reminder that when we come together for a purpose, amazing things happen. 440 attended, 25 families visited for the first time, and 15 came back next Sunday! This day was living proof that faith can connect hearts and transform communities.

Our Español Couples events offer couples a dedicated time to reconnect, strengthen their bond, and grow together in their commitment. Our Fall Couples Conference had 110 couples in attendance! Through engaging workshops and activities, couples learn valuable communication skills, conflict resolution strategies, and ways to nurture each other emotionally and spiritually. These events create opportunities for deeper understanding, helping couples to rekindle their connection and renew their focus on a shared future. By investing in their relationships, couples leave equipped and encouraged, with fresh insights and tools to build a lasting, joyful partnership.

Easter services in Español offer a powerful celebration of hope, renewal, and the joy of Christ's resurrection. Through heartfelt worship and messages in Spanish, individuals connect deeply with their faith and cultural heritage. These services create a welcoming space for families to grow spiritually while celebrating the significance of Easter. They leave a lasting impact, reminding attendees of God’s love and the new life found through Him.

This special service, honoring Mexico’s Día del Niño, creates a joyful space where children are celebrated and cherished. With engaging activities and lively entertainment, kids are immersed in a day filled with excitement and happiness. Teaching about God’s love in Spanish provides a meaningful connection to their faith and cultural roots. It’s a heartfelt event that nurtures their spiritual growth while celebrating the beauty and joy of childhood.