NE COMMUNITY NEWS - March 24, 2014

Northeast Community News – March 24, 2014

Hello Dear Ones!

What a wonderful day we had in the Lord this week! We had a wonderful time in Sundayschool, a wonderful time in singing and worship – a wonderful time praying, and a wonderful time examining the Word together, too! Later, Janie led a Missionary gathering at the parsonage and as we ate taco’s we learned about how God calls all Christians to serve and we can learn to listen and be led by the Holy Spirit. If you are not coming to Sunday school, worship, and small groups, well, you are missing out!

God’s message this week came from John 2:13-22 and was titled, ‘Cleanse the Temple.’ As Jesus came to celebrate the annual Passover in the Jewish Temple, He discovered a system forcing visiting Jews to pay exorbitant prices for sacrificial animals and money exchange while providing ‘kickbacks’ to the Temple priests. What God had intended to be a sacred witness to the Gentile nations had become a corrupt flea market.

We find Jesus’ response in vv. 15-16: “So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” (John 2:13-16)

In essence, Jesus cleaned house! It was dramatic – it was painful – I’m sure it didn’t feel good and the time and sure it cost people a lot of money. But it needed to be done! The Temple was God’s house and God doesn’t tolerate trash in His house. While He doesn’t have that Temple anymore – in 1 Cor. 6:19-20 we discover He does have temples!

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

God’s presence now resides in us! God’s Holy Spirit now lives within those who have received His son, Jesus Christ! If you are a Christian, you are a temple of the Holy Spirit! Question? Is your temple sacred or have you have allowed sin to creep back in to your life? If you were to put every area of your life on tables would Jesus want to turn over a few of them? As we move through Lent, I pray that you will allow the Holy Spirit access to every area of your life and give Him permission to change you, cleanse you, drive things out of your life and invite in whatever is needed to be made into the image of Jesus. I pray you would allow the Father to replace your apathy or indifference to sin with a ‘zeal for God’s temple’ (you)! In Jesus Name I pray, Amen!

Love and blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

ORDER EASTER FLOWERS AND HONOR AND REMEMBER!

We’re planning to decorate the church again for Easter Sunday and you can help by ordering flowers in ‘honor’ or ‘memory’ of a loved one and then taking them home on Easter Sunday! Below you will find the order form and they will be in the bulletins on March 30, and April 06^th(Note: deadline to order and pay is April 06)

THE NEXT ‘LAST WED. POTLUCK’ IS THIS WEEK! MAR. 26^th @ 5:30PM!

Don’t forget! Bring a dish to pass and enjoy the fun, food, and fellowship! It really is fun!

NEXT ‘FIRST FRIDAY CHINESE LUNCH’ – APRIL 4th

Everyone is invited to Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target) at 11:30am on the first Friday of every month! The food is inexpensive, delicious, and the fellowship is even better. Talk to Tracy Tamm if you have any questions. Hope to see you there!

WED. NIGHT PRAYER AND BIBLE STUDY AT 6:30PM – JESUS IS LORD!

We have slowed down our study and are examining the last two chapters of our book (8-9) during our Lenten journey. Our youth and children are taking part in this study, too! For the time being it makes more sense to meet at Pastor’s house (the parsonage) across the parking lot instead of heating up the whole church. So grab your babies, kids, teens, and adults and make the trip! You’ll be glad you did!

4^th ANNUAL ‘KEEP ‘EM COVERED’ DRIVE – GOAL = 1,500 - COLLECTED = 742

We are again collecting diapers for North End Community Ministry as part of the Kent County ‘Keep ‘Em Covered’ program through April 13. Why you ask? Because Jesus asks us to care for the ‘least of these’ (see Matthew 25:31-46). Consider these facts:

•   1 out of every 4 babies born in Kent County is born into poverty and safety net programs such as W.I.C. and food stamps do NOT cover the cost of diapers!

•   Babies need 6-10 diapers a day, but sadly many babies are often forced to spend the entire day or longer in a single diaper, because the family cannot afford them.

•   Studies show a baby crying from being in a soiled diaper for a prolonged period of time is at a greater risk for physical abuse by the caregiver.

This year, our goal will be to collect 1,500 diapers. There is a playpen set up in the back of the sanctuary for you to place your diapers through April 13^th – Bless you for helping!

EASTER EGG HUNT FOR KIDS – EASTER SUN. AFTER CHURCH (APR. 20

We will be holding an Easter egg hunt immediately after our worship service on Easter. Children through 6^th grade are invited to participate, (but we usually give the little ones a head start)! This is a great Sunday to invite friends! So grab the neighborhood kids and bring them to church this Easter! If you are willing to help stuff Easter eggs and prepare the hunt, see Janie Hathaway or call her at 616-204-2499!

NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING – SUN., APR. 23 at 4:00PM

We’ve tried it twice and think we’ll do it again! So, invite a friend, bring a snack food, and gather with us in the basement of the house where Pastor and Janie live across the parking lot (883 Fuller Ave NE) on Apr. 23 at 4:00PM for food, fun, and a lesson on missions! It’ll be a good time! Promise!

DISTRICT MEN’S RETREAT 9/26-27 – CRAN-HILL RANCH, RODNEY, MI

Sponsor: Midland Nazarene (Midland Naz is paying for speaker so that this retreat is affordable for all.) Cost: $50 (price includes breakfast, lunch and dinner on the 27^th and most activities; some activities – archery tag, skeet – cost $5) Arrive: 6:30PM on 9/26^th Depart:6:30PM on  9/27^th  – Speaker:  Bay Forrest (www.focus-ministries.com) I know this is a long way away, but save the date and plan on coming! You’ll be glad you did!

IS SOMEONE MISSING?

From time to time someone in the church will come up to me and say, ‘Hey, where is so and so?’ While I often have an idea, it’s up to ALL OF US to love, encourage, and hold one another up! So, if you notice someone missing, give them a call or send them an email! You have no idea how much it means to be ‘missed.’ Remember, we really are in this whole ‘body of faith’ thing together! Bless you for caring!

DO YOU WANT TO HELP BUT AREN’T SURE HOW TO GO ABOUT IT?

The Kingdom of God needs EVERYONE to get involved, but we often make it hard to figure out exactly how to get involved! We’re sorry about that! If you would like to serve contact Pastor Dan to see how we can plug you in! We really do need you!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mar. 16-Apr. 13         Keep ‘Em Covered Diaper Drive

Mar. 26                       Wed. night potluck (5:30pm at the parsonage)

Apr. 04                       First Friday Chinese Lunch at Hibachi Grill on Alpine (11:30)

Apr. 20                       Easter – He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Apr. 20                       Missionary Gathering (4:00pm at the parsonage)

Apr. 26                       Ladies Day at Olivet Nazarene University!

May 11                       Mother’s Day

May 26                       Memorial Day

NE COMMUNITY NEWS - March 17, 2014

Northeast Community News – March 17, 2014

We had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! After music practice and a time of prayer dedicating everything to God’s glory Alannah Parsaca and I had the wonderful opportunity to teach 4 children the importance of telling the truth and who to trust inSunday school!  In whom do you put your trust? The children this week were taught:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

How long has it been since you woke up a bit earlier and came to learn (or re-learn) something you vitally needed to know in the fellowship and community of others? Why not make this week the week you come to Wed. night or Sunday school?

God’s message this week came from Mark 8:31-38 and was titled, “Lose Your Life to Save it.” While we often find it easy to embrace the loving words of Jesus, it is harder to embrace His difficult, raw and honest words. But Jesus is fulfillment of ‘grace AND truth’ and we need to hear and embrace both grace and truth to make us whole!

This passage begins with Jesus resolved to follow the Father regardless of the cost. When Peter rebukes Jesus for saying He must suffer, be rejected, and killed, Jesus responds, “Get behind me Satan!” …“You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men”(8:33). Jesus will not let anything detract Him from God’s will. What are the things that are trying to detract you or tempt you to move away from God’s plan?

Though our culture is growing more ‘pleasure focused’ and spends vast sums of money on self and our interests and so little on God’s kingdom, Jesus tells followers they are to join Him and deny themselves, take up their cross and follow Him (Mark 8:34).  While we often think of ‘bearing our cross’ in terms of putting up with a difficult boss or an arthritic knee, Jesus is calling us to ‘come and die’ to self.

Jesus said, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? (Mark 8:34-35). 

When we die to our own self-interests and are filled with the Holy Spirit we exchange a life of toil and pain for a life of joyful service in the kingdom that will never end!

But, perhaps the greatest question this text asks is “How firm is your resolve?” We know Jesus’ resolve is firm! We know the teaching of Jesus to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow His is clear! But how will we respond? How will you respond? What is the Holy Spirit trying to tell you as you read this? Will you be obedient?

During the Lenten season we are called to strip away the things that compete with Jesus and draw close to God. Will you give Jesus all that you are and let the Holy Spirit cleanse you and fill you or will you listen to the Evil One whispering ‘naw, take the short cut?’ I pray you listen to sweet Spirit and respond in obedience and go all the way with Jesus!

Love and blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

WED. NIGHT PRAYER AND BIBLE STUDY AT6:30PM – JESUS IS LORD!

We have slowed down our study and are examining the last two chapters of our book (8-9) during our Lenten journey. Our youth and children are taking part in this study, too! For the time being it makes more sense to meet at Pastor’s house (the parsonage) across the parking lot instead of heating up the whole church. So grab your babies, kids, teens, and adults and make the trip! You’ll be glad you did!

4^th ANNUAL ‘KEEP ‘EM COVERED’ DRIVE – GOAL = 1,500 - COLLECTED = 442

We are again collecting diapers for North EndCommunity Ministry as part of the Kent County ‘Keep ‘Em Covered’ program through April 13. Why you ask? Because Jesus asks us to care for the ‘least of these’ (see Matthew 25:31-46). Consider these facts:

•  1 out of every 4 babies born in Kent County is born into poverty and safety net programs such as W.I.C. and food stamps do NOT cover the cost of diapers!

•  Babies need 6-10 diapers a day, but sadly many babies are often forced to spend the entire day or longer in a single diaper, because the family cannot afford them.

•  Studies show a baby crying from being in a soiled diaper for a prolonged period of time is at a greater risk for physical abuse by the caregiver.

This year, our goal will be to collect 1,500 diapers. There is a playpen set up in the back of the sanctuary for you to place your diapers through April 13^th – Bless you for helping!

NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING – SUN., MAR. 23 at 4:00PM

In February we tried an experiment! We wondered if anyone would be interested in an intentional time missions? So, food was prepared, chairs set up, and lesson ready and we waited! I am delighted to tell you 15 came to the first ‘missions gathering’ and it was such a success the Mission Council is doing it again this month!

So, invite a friend, bring a snack food, and gather with us in the basement of the house where Pastor and Janie live across the parking lot (883 Fuller Ave NE) on March 23 at 4:00PM. Food, fun, fellowship and a lesson on missions! It’ll be a good time! Promise!

ORDER EASTER FLOWERS STARTING NEXT WEEK AND REMEMBER!

We’re planning to decorate the church again for EasterSunday and you can help by ordering flowers in ‘honor’ or ‘memory’ of a loved one and then taking them home on Easter Sunday! Below you will find the order form and they will be in the bulletin on March 23, 30, and April 06^th (Note: deadline to order and pay is April 06)

THE NEXT ‘LAST WED. POTLUCK’ IS MAR. 26^th @5:30PM!

Don’t forget! Bring a dish to pass and enjoy the fun, food, and fellowship! It really is fun!

NEXT ‘FIRST FRIDAY CHINESE LUNCH’ – APRIL 4th

Everyone is invited to Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target) at 11:30am on the first Friday of every month! The food is inexpensive, delicious, and the fellowship is even better. Talk to Tracy Tamm if you have any questions. Hope to see you there!

IS SOMEONE MISSING?

From time to time someone in the church will come up to me and say, ‘Hey, where is so and so?’ While I often have an idea, it’s up to ALL OF US to love, encourage, and hold one another up! So, if you notice someone missing, give them a call or send them an email! You have no idea how much it means to be ‘missed.’ Remember, we really are in this whole ‘body of faith’ thing together! Bless you for caring!

DO YOU WANT TO HELP BUT AREN’T SURE HOW TO GO ABOUT IT?

The Kingdom of God needs EVERYONE to get involved, but we often make it hard to figure out exactly how to get involved! We’re sorry about that! If you would like to serve contact Pastor Dan to see how we can plug you in! We really do need you!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mar. 16-Apr. 13        Keep ‘Em Covered Diaper Drive

Mar. 20              Spring begins (no really it really does begin Mar. 20)

Mar. 23              Missionary Gathering (4:00pm at the parsonage)

Mar. 26              Wed. night potluck (5:30pm at the parsonage)

Apr. 04              First Friday Chinese Lunch at Hibachi Grill on Alpine (11:30)

Apr. 20              Easter – He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Apr. 26              Ladies Day at Olivet Nazarene University!

May 11              Mother’s Day

NE COMMUNITY NEWS - March 10, 2014

Northeast Community News – March 10, 2014

Good morning Dear Ones!

We had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! Our day began with a wonderful time of prayer around the altar, a great Sunday school hour (hint, hint) and a great worship service! Last Wednesday began the 40-day period (we do not count Sunday’s) of Lent leading to Easter. Lent, a practice begun in the 4^th century to focus on spiritual disciplines, is an opportunity of reflection, realignment, and repentance.

We began our observance last Wednesday (Ash Wednesday) with an opportunity to ‘receive the ashes.’ In a simple gesture of humility adults and teens received an ash cross on their foreheads and heard, “From dust you came and to dust you shall return.” It is a moment when we understand we are set apart! Unlike the larger culture, Lent is a time when Christians set aside ‘good things’ to seek ‘best things.’

God’s message this week came from Mark 1:9-15 and was titled, “The Time has Come.” Mark uses a very revealing verb as he describes Jesus baptism: “As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove”(Mark 1:10).  Unlike the other Gospels, Mark describes heaven being ‘torn open’ and the Spirit descending. Mark uses this verb one more time in his gospel account in just after Jesus dies on the cross: “The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Mark 15:38). Like an invasion, Jesus came to earth to seek and save the lost and in His death on the cross salvation was made possible for all of us! Hallelujah!

Jesus wastes no time as He begins His ministry after his baptism to offer salvation to all of us: “…Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15).  In the Message Jesus words are translated: “Time’s up! God’s kingdom is here. Change your life and believe the Message.” Mark’s account comes at us fast and hard. There is urgency in Jesus words. We must not wait. The time for salvation is now! The kingdom is here! Repent and believe! Ask the Holy Spirit to search you and then make the change…today!

Finally, while the invasion began 2000+ years ago in a crude manger and we will all face temptation until Jesus’ second coming and the Evil One is destroyed forever, we need to be remember through the Holy Spirit Jesus offers us victory today! In the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus the long silence is broken, dawn broke, and God entered the fray. Through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit Jesus emerges from that 40-day battle with temptation victorious. But the good news is through His death, resurrection, and the power of Pentecost, Jesus gives us the power to live victoriously, too!

Where has the Evil One bound you – distracted you – kept you in secret sin or living a life less than God intended? Ask the Holy Spirit to search you and reveal these areas to you and then confess and repent! Some of us need to fast something (food, technology, shopping, talking, or Facebook), but all of us need more time in prayer and in the Word.  Time’s up! God’s kingdom is here! Change your life and believe the Message! Amen!

Love and blessings, Pastor Dan 

NEWS AND EVENTS

WED. NIGHT PRAYER AND BIBLE STUDY AT6:30PM – JESUS IS LORD!

This week we complete our study on Jesus is Lord with ‘Lordship Training 101.’ Please read c. 9 of the book to be prepared! Our youth and children are also taking part in this study! Hope to see you there! (at the parsonage!)

REMEMBER! WED. NIGHT LOCATION CHANGE!

Perhaps our attendance is low because it has been a long cold winter? Who knows! But, as stewards of God’s money, we think it makes more sense to meet at Pastor’s house across the parking lot instead of heating the whole church. So this week we will start meeting on Wed. (babies, kids, teens, adults) next door until it makes sense to go back!

4^th ANNUAL ‘KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE’ STARTS MARCH 16

We are once again collecting diapers for North EndCommunity Ministry in NE GR as part of the ‘First Steps  - Keep ‘Em Covered’ Diaper Drive’. Why you ask? Because Jesus calls us to care for the ‘least of these’ (see Matt. 25:31-46). Why do we consider many of our babies in Kent County ‘the least of these?’ Consider these facts:

•  1 out of every 4 babies born in Kent County is born into poverty and safety net programs such as W.I.C. and food stamps do NOT cover the cost of diapers!

•  Most childcare centers do not accept cloth diaper, many families have limited access to laundry facilities, and many coin-operated laundry facilities cannot allow cloth diapers for health reasons.

•  Babies need 6-10 diapers a day, but sadly many babies are often forced to spend the entire day or longer in a single diaper, because the family cannot afford them.

•  Studies show a baby crying from being in a soiled diaper for a prolonged period of time is at a greater risk for physical abuse by the caregiver.

This year, our goal will be to collect 1,500 diapers. There is a playpen set up in the back of the sanctuary for you to place your diapers through April 13^th – Bless you for helping! NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING – SUN., MAR. 23 at 4:00PM

In February we tried an experiment! We wondered if anyone would gather to join in an intentional hour or so on missions? The few minutes each month just seemed too little to share everything happening in missions. So, the food was prepared, the chairs set up, the lesson prepared on Feb. 16 and then we waited! Well, I am delighted to tell you 15 came to the first ‘missions gathering’ and it was such a success the Mission Council has decided to try it again for another month or two to see if there is interest!

So, invite a friend, bring a snack food, and gather with us in the basement of the house where Pastor and Janie live across the parking lot (883 Fuller Ave NE) on March 23 at 4:00PM. Food, fun, fellowship and a lesson on missions! It’s going to be a good time!

OUR NEXT ‘LAST WED. POTLUCK’ IS MAR. 26^th @5:30PM!

Don’t forget! Bring a dish to pass and enjoy the fun, food, and fellowship! It really is fun!

NEXT ‘FIRST FRIDAY CHINESE LUNCH’ – APRIL 4th

Everyone is invited to Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target) at 11:30am on the first Friday of every month! The food is inexpensive, delicious, and the fellowship is even better. Talk to Tracy Tamm if you have any questions. Hope to see you there!

ALABASTER OFFERING CONTINUES TO BLESS!!

Ok, you guys are either really wonderful and are being moved mightily by God or you’re just plain crazy! We just received another $39.61 in Alabaster last week raising the total received now to $545.76!! That’s just incredible! Thank you for saying a big YES to God!

IS SOMEONE MISSING?

From time to time someone in the church will come up to me and say, ‘Hey, where is so and so?’ While I often have an idea, it’s up to ALL OF US to love, encourage, and hold one another up! So, if you notice someone missing, give them a call or send them an email! You have no idea how much it means to be ‘missed.’ Remember, we really are in this whole ‘body of faith’ thing together! Bless you for caring!

COMING SOON! ORDER EASTER FLOWERS AND REMEMBER!

We’re planning to decorate the church again for Easter Sunday and you can help by ordering flowers in ‘honor’ or ‘memory’ of a loved one and then take them home on Easter Sunday! Look for more details and order form coming soon!

DO YOU WANT TO HELP BUT AREN’T SURE HOW TO GO ABOUT IT?

The Kingdom of God needs EVERYONE to get involved, but we often make it hard to figure out exactly how to get involved! We’re sorry about that! If you would like to serve contact Pastor Dan to see how we can plug you in! We really do need you!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mar. 16-Apr. 13        Keep ‘Em Covered Diaper Drive

Mar. 20              Spring begins (no really it really does begin Mar. 20)

Mar. 23              Missionary Gathering (4:00pm at the parsonage)

Mar. 26              Wed. night potluck (5:30pm at the parsonage)

Apr. 04              First Friday Chinese Lunch at Hibachi Grill on Alpine (11:30)

Apr. 20              Easter – He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Apr. 26              Ladies Day at Olivet Nazarene University!

May 11              Mother’s Day

NE COMMUNITY NEWS - March 3, 2014

Northeast Community News – March 3, 2014

Hello Dear Ones!

Well, I know you find it hard to believe if you only read this every week, but we had another wonderful day in the Lord, yesterday! (You really should come visit us!) Our day began with a wonderful breakfast prepared by the Missionary Council, flowed right into Jonathon’s special missions report from Africa during the Sunday school hour, and then we had a wonderful worship service ending in Communion. God is on the move!

Our message this week came from Luke 22:14-23 and titled, “In Remembrance of Me.” The setting is in the Upper Room where Jesus and His disciples are together observing the Passover for the last time. Jesus is just hours from His arrest and crucifixion and He has just announced He will suffer and die. In the midst of this struggle Matthew records Jesus instituting the Lord’s Supper. Luke records it this way:

“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”²⁰ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you”(Luke 22:19-20).

While there are several accounts of the Lord’s Supper, in all of them Jesus wants believers to remember. But, remember what? First, the whole body of Scripture from the O.T. through the words of Christ would remind us to be thankful. As you approach the Lord’s Table are you thankful or just going through the motions?

Second, Jesus would have us remember the sacrifice and join Him. Yes, I know the memory of Christ’s death is gruesome. As “The Passion of the Christ” portrayed vividly, Jesus death was a nasty, brutal, gory horrific experience. But it is through His body and blood we are cleansed, justified, and made whiter than snow. As you approach the Lord’s Table are you mindful of the sacrifice Jesus made for you?

But, in Matthew’s account of the Lord’s Supper we find Jesus inviting us to come and die, too. “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me’”(Matt. 16:24). As you approach the Table will you die to self, selfishness, and sinful worldly things that would entangle you?

Finally, when we approach Jesus’ Table with thanks and humility He wants us to know He is there ready to transform us! Many have sensed His presence and found their heart begin to mellow, mind begin to change, anger fade, faith begin or deepen, sin confessed, forgiveness experienced, calls received, strength reinforced, and grace found. As the Gaither’s so beautifully wrote and sang:

He is here, Hallelujah. He is here, Amen.

He is here, Holy, Holy, I will bless His name again.

He is here, listen closely – hear Him calling out your name.

He is here, you can touch Him – You will never be the same.

My prayer as you approach the Lord’s Table the next time and receive the body and blood of Christ, you will take some time to give thanks – take some time to remember the gruesome suffering and death Jesus endured for your redemption, and if needed confess, die to self, and be transformed! Praise God from whom all blessings flow! Amen

Love and blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

CRISIS CARE KIT BLESSINGS!

Well, when it was all said and done you donated the goods or the money necessary to fill 12 Crisis Care Kits or 2 Banana Boxes! That means 12 struggling individuals in crisis around the world will receive basic toiletry items in the next disaster because of you! Thanks for loving people you’ve never met! God is moving and you JOINED Him! Amen!

JONATHON’S AFRICAN MISSION REPORT (AND BREAKFAST) BLESSINGS!

What a blessing to hear the report from Jonathon Gingrich on his 10 day mission trip to Africa with Calvin College. As I was trying to clean up, I heard the sound of trumpeting elephants charging the students on a video! How fun!

Jonathon is certainly a humble man of God and was used powerfully in Africa! Thank you Jonathon for sharing your trip with us! You reminded us God is moving all around the world and we can choose to be a part of it! The need is great, but God is bigger!

We were also blessed with a delicious breakfast before Jonathon spoke prepared by our Local Missionary Council. Thank you Janie, Gerry, and Tracy for coming early, setting up, cooking for us, and then cleaning up in time for worship! God is good! All the time!

ALABASTER OFFERING CONTINUES TO BLESS!!

Ok, you guys are either really wonderful and are being moved mightily by God or you’re just plain crazy! We just received another $39.61 in Alabaster last week raising the total received now to $545.76!! That’s just incredible! Thank you for saying a big YES to God!

IT’S OFFICIAL! GERRY DAWSON IS OUR S.D.M.I. SUPERINTENDENT!!

The members voted and unlike the last ‘general elections’ I have voted in for our country, this one wasn’t even in close! The members of the church voted and they voted unanimously to elect Gerry Dawson as our Sun. School and Discipleship Superintendent to serve through May 31 (the end of the church year). If you see Gerry congratulate her and then let her know you’re ready to help or serve anywhere she needs it!

DON’T FORGET!! DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS MAR. 09 (THIS SUNDAY)

While the snow may try to fool us, Spring really is around the corner so it’s just about time for daylight savings time again! So, don’t forget to ‘Spring forward’ one hour before you go bed Sat., Mar. 08 or you just might just arrive late for Sunday school or church!

INTERESTED IN O.N.U. LADIES DAY APR. 26? LET JANIE KNOW BY MAR. 09

Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) has a wonderful opportunity for women of all ages to come for a special time of worship, renewal, and encouragement for thousands of ladies from around the Midwest. They plan to leave Fri. late afternoon, spend the night, attend the conference on Sat. and then travel home. If you even think you would be interested, please let Janie know (allsmiles@comcast.net or 616-204-2499) on or before Mar. 09!

WED. NIGHT PRAYER AND BIBLE STUDY AT6:30PM – JESUS IS LORD!

This week we will examine Jesus is Lord: Lordship 24/7 – Please read chapter 8 of the book to be prepared! Our youth and children will also be taking part in this study in Children’s Church and Youth Group! Hope to see you there! (at the parsonage!)

REMEMBER! WED. NIGHT LOCATION CHANGESTARTS MAR. 05! (THIS WEEK!)

Perhaps our attendance is low because it has been a long cold winter? Who knows! But, as stewards of God’s money, we think it makes more sense to meet at Pastor’s house across the parking lot instead of heating the whole church. So this week we will start meeting on Wed. (babies, kids, teens, adults) next door until it makes sense to go back!

OUR NEXT ‘LAST WED. POTLUCK’ IS MAR. 26^th @5:30PM!

Don’t forget! Bring a dish to pass and enjoy the fun, food, and fellowship! It really is fun!

COMING SOON! ORDER EASTER FLOWERS AND REMEMBER!

We’re planning to decorate the church again for Easter Sunday and you can help by ordering flowers in ‘honor’ or ‘memory’ of a loved one and then take them home on Easter Sunday! Look for more details and order form coming soon!

DO YOU WANT TO HELP BUT AREN’T SURE HOW TO GO ABOUT IT?

The Kingdom of God needs EVERYONE to get involved, but we often make it hard to figure out exactly how to get involved! We’re sorry about that! If you would like to serve contact Pastor Dan to see how we can plug you in! We really do need you!

NEXT ‘FIRST FRIDAY CHINESE LUNCH’ – MARCH 7th

Everyone is invited to Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target) at 11:30am on the first Friday of every month! The food is inexpensive, delicious, and the fellowship is even better. Talk to Tracy Tamm if you have any questions. Hope to see you there!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mar. 05              Ash Wednesday (Don’t forget! Meet at the parsonage!)

Mar. 07              First Friday Chinese Lunch at Hibachi

Mar. 08              TEAM DAY in Perry, MI (must be pre-registered)

Mar. 09              Ladies Day ‘interest deadline’ to Janie

Mar. 16-Apr. 13        Keep ‘Em Covered Diaper Drive

Apr. 20              Easter – He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Apr. 26              Ladies Day at Olivet Nazarene University!