Family Recap for Aug 17, 2008

If you were in church yesterday, you know that Anne and I were not. At least we were not in church here. On Saturday we took three grandkids and traveled to Alexandria to meet and celebrate the marriage of my nephew. They were married last week in NYC and were back here to meet with all of my nephew’s side of the family. What a delightful young couple and what an exciting future God has laid out for them. Aaron is going to teach in the Bronx for one more year then enter seminary with the ultimate goal of going into the pastorate. How exciting to have another family member in the pastorate. Naturally Anne and I were very excited for them. In a few moments Aaron and I had together he shared with me how the Lord had led him to point in his life. What I heard was very distinct “calling” of the Lord and it took place at a prayer meeting at the Brooklyn Tabernacle (I’m sure very similar to the prayer meeting I attended there). I strongly encouraged him to journal the experience and record the other verifications he has received along the way. Anne would later share with his new bride Erica (another Erica in the family) on the value and freedom of serving in your area of giftedness. Between these two thoughts I think rests the secret to our joy and fulfillment in the Christian life. Serving in the area where God has called you using the giftedness in that area. This got me to thinking – are you serving in the area of your calling. Are you using the gifts God has given you in ministry. If you are then you know the joy I’m speaking of, but if you are not then chances are you may be frustrated, exhausted and perhaps have already “given up.”

As we enter the fall of the year, there are numerous opportunities for you to try your hand. One of the best ways to determine your area of service is to experiment in an area you think you may enjoy. On the back of each bulletin are a list of the various ministry areas in the church. Check it out, fill it out, try it out – you and God will be most blessed when you find and serve in your nitch. If you need some help let me know and we’ll work together to find that area. Class 301, which will be offered in November is an excellent tool to assist you along the way.

I’m so excited for my Nephew. For sure there will be challenges and struggles, but what he has already is a clear sense of God’s calling and direction and with that foundation, God can build an incredible place of worship and praise.

News at a glance

repeat – BRICK Intro – Wednesday night – 6:30 pm – A gathering to introduce parents to this course that is designed for students in grades 6-8.

Repeat – “Jonah – it’s not about a big fish” – Join us Wednesday evening 6:30 pm as we continue our study in this familiar story. It’s not to late to come, even if you haven’t been able to come previous. The conversation is great as we talk about this old old story.

Repeat - Young At Heart – The Young at Hearts will meet at Doug and Carol Ringold’s (7081 Van Road) this Thursday at 1 pm.

Repeat – “OutDoor Worship Service” – Our outdoor worship service will be held NEXT SUNDAY at 10 AM at the Fredenberg Community Center. The church will provide the hot dogs and drinks. We would ask that you bring a dish to share. Lawn chairs, blankets, outdoor games would also be appropriate to bring but most importantly bring your whole family along with your friends. This is always a fun time together as we wrap up the summer and prepare for a new fall year.

New - MEN – BOYS – OF ALL AGES – Come to dinner on Tuesday, Aug 26^th at 6:00 pm – bring a snack to share – We have an exciting idea we’d like to share with you! Special guest will be Gary Gagnon!

New – “LIFEtime Learning Classes” – On Sunday, September 7^th we will begin our fall educational ministry called LIFEtime learning (Learning Intimacy From Eachother). Classes for all age levels will run from 8:30 am to 9:20 am. There are two classes being planned for adults. An insert was and will be in the bulletin for you to make your choice. I would encourage everyone to be a participant in LIFEtime learning. Your participation may be for the benefit of another in addition to your own. or RV if they would like as there are a limited number of cabins available.

New – “Prayer Chain” – We are currently updating our prayer chain and if you would like to be a part of it, please fill out the sign up sheet that is located on the literature table and then put it in the response box. This is a vital ministry and is called upon numerous times during the course of the year. Instructions and guidelines are outlined on the sign up sheet. Early in September the chain will be formed and each person will be notified. If you have any questions contact Carol Ringold (coordinator) or Lori Bergholm (back up).

New – “CLASS 101-Introduction to Church Membershjp” – This is the introduction class to who we are as a church and what we are all about. Two options have been provided (one will be selected). Saturday, September 13^th from 8-noon or Sunday, September 14^th from 5-8 pm. I would highly recommend this class to everyone regardless of whether or not you feel led of the Lord to become “official” members of the church. A sign up sheet is on the literature table so that adequate materials can be made available. There is no charge for this class.

New – “The Truth Project” – We will once again be showing the “Truth Project” series beginning Wednesday September 17^th at 6:30 pm. What an excellent opportunity to solidify your faith by enhancing your Biblical World View. This is excellent stuff and I highly recommend it to you and to anyone you may call a friend!

New – “Olivet Discourse – Beginning Sunday, Sept 7^th we will take up a study of this incredible sermon of Jesus concerning the end times. Interspersed with this series will be our observance of the fall Biblical holidays. Don’t miss any of these timely messages. Good times to invite a friend!

Have a smile today and consider joining us on Wednesday nights for our study in the book of Jonah!

Question: Is a persons calling ever over? (Something to think about)

It is a joy to be your pastor!

Pastor Glenn

Phil 1:3