Pastor's Weekly Recap, week of February 21, 2010

Yesterday we took a break from our Revelation study to hear some exciting reports about what is and has happened in Osnaburgh. If you were not able to be here, you can check out one of those testimonies at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JU5X0PnSYDA

Family Recap for February 22, 2010

Meditation verse for these next few weeks come from what is known as “The Bridge.” This week we are looking at Titus 3:5 (NIV) “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”

Sunday was a pause in our study of Revelation as we had several guests with us to talk about our ongoing ministry in Osnaburgh. One of our guest was not able to be with us personally but thanks to modern technology, we had a video presentation from Rachel Fameree. Rachel shared with us what God did in her life due in great part to her participation last summer in our trip to Os.

Phil Smith who was instrumental a number of year ago to get us started in Os, introduced two friends who shared their stories about what is taking place up there. Rather than try to summarize their comments, I would suggest that if you were not here on Sunday that you make arrangements to obtain the CD – powerful stories. The purpose behind Sunday was to encourage us to keep on keeping on. We may be tempted to think that our one or two weeks on the Reserve each summer doesn’t make much of a difference, but we are a vital piece in what God is doing up there and we are indeed helping to make a difference. One of the big changes we heard about yesterday was that there is now a Christian radio station broadcasting from Pickel Lake. That is bound to have a very positive impact in the area. What stories! What a blessing!

And the blessings continued after the service as our Youth had prepared a soup luncheon for us. A great big thank you goes out to those who not only put it together but took care of serving and clean up. Way to go guys and gals!

One thing we did learn yesterday is that there so much going on that time did not permit us to do all that we had intended. Therefore this next Sunday morning we will have a second testimony, this time by Nathan Halverson on his experiences at Os.

The point of all this is to encourage all of us to participate in our mission to Os. This summer, two trips are being tentatively planned for: July 3-10 and Aug 7-14. We will definitely keep you posted as details become available. But prayerfully consider how you can help reach this land for Jesus. Here are some ways to pray about: Commit to pray for these trips - Go along on one of these trips [if you have never been to Os, why not go along, you’ll not be sorry you did as Rachel and Nathan can attest] – Maybe you can give financially to assist others in going –or assist in preparing the food for those going. Perhaps you are not sure of what all this is about – if so then check the tear off portion of the bulletin and someone will get back to you and attempt to answer you questions.

Focus What’s to prevent you from going on our summer missions trip to Osnaburgh?

What’s goin’ On?

New– Vintage Snowmobile ShowThis Sat starting at the Eagle’s Nest – One of the largest in the region and it’s confirmed that they need some volunteer help. The snowmobiles will head out across Fish Lake to the turn-around area at the new Boat launch just past the former Cloquet River Inn. Help is needed at the turn-around from noon to about 3 pm. Traffic control, general assistance, any clean up, maintain fire rings etc. Food will be available at the turn-around but no alcoholic beverages will be allowed or served. Here is a great way to serve our community. Would you be willing to help out? Call the church or reply to this email and we’ll fill in any details.

New– Union Gospel Mission - Friday, we leave at 4:15 pm and return at about 7 pm. Come and join us and be a part of a double blessing – to those you serve and to yourself..

Repeat – VBS - Mark the dates on your Calendar now - June 13-17. Once again it will be an evening school and we hope you will assist us in getting the word out. This year we will take a trip to Egypt and follow the story of Joseph.

Reminder – Wednesdays

9:30 am Ladies Bible study (repeated Thursday 6:30 pm)

4:00 pm After school Community Center activities

5:15 pm Evening meal will be served until 6:15 pm

5:30 pm BRICK Class for students in grades 6-8

6:30 pm Kids Club or Jr Youth

Sr Youth Groups meet in the Youth Center

ALPHA” – A Practical Introduction to the Christian Faith”

New – March is Food Share Month Let’s start filling up the boxes at the front of the church for non-perishable food items. Each time you shop pick up a little extra for those who are in need.

Repeat – “ALPHA” - We meet Wed nights at 6:30 pm. God has seen fit to have our study on Wed. night match up with the message on Sunday morning – “Why and How To Pray” – Come join us!

Reminder– Walkers! – Mon, Wed, and Fri from 11-noon. A great way to get a little exercise during these winter days.

Revised– “Easter Schedule”The following events will take place this year. We will once again host a Seder meal (April 2nd) and we want to invite the community to this wonderful event. We’ll have our annual Easter Egg hunt on Saturday April 3rd and then our two services on Easter Sunday (April 4th). This is an excellent time to invite others to join us.