Northeast Community News – February 23, 2015

Hello Dear Ones!

If you’re happy and you know it ‘clap your hands.’ If you’re happy and you know it ‘clap your hands.’ If you’re happy and you know it then your face will surely show it, if you’re happy and you know it ‘clap your hands.’ Well are you happy? Does your face show it? Let’s go ahead and confuse people by smiling at them for no reason this week! If you’re curious, then I should tell you, yes, we had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! 

For those who might not know, we’re in the middle of Lent beginning with Ash Wed. and ending at Easter. Traditionally, the 40 days of Lent is a time of reflection and repentance as we seek a more simple life by stripping something good away and focus on Christ instead. If you haven’t begun an intentional focus on Jesus it isn’t too late! While you won’t find ‘Lent’ in the Bible, the 40 days of Lent symbolically represent the 40 days of fasting, prayer, and temptation Jesus endured in the desert. We learn much from Jesus’ time in the desert! 

God’s message came from Matt. 4:1-11 and was titled, “No Shortcuts.” If you are like me you like to find shortcuts. I love to find a way to do something more efficiently and save time. And yet, while finding a way to take less time cooking or travelling might make sense, we discover in Jesus’ temptation, the Devil often tempts us to short cut our faith to our peril.

The first thing we notice is the Devil often attacks when we are weak. Do you think it’s a coincidence Satan waited until after Jesus had fasted 40 days and nights to tempt Him? No way! In fact, you need to realize the Devil is no gentleman. He’ll wait until you are at your weakest to deceive and tempt you. There is nothing too low or off limits! He is a destroyer!

Second, we notice Satan tells half-truths. Certainly Jesus was hungry (v. 3), surely Jesus desired to get everyone’s attention with the good news (v. 5-6) and no doubt Jesus would have rather avoided the cross and all of its suffering and shame (v. 8-9). Satan came to Him as a helpful advisor not a roaring lion. He whispered half-truths in Jesus’ ear at His weakest.

Are you ever tempted to short-cut God’s will in your life? Jesus was tempted to take matters into His own hands instead of trusting the Father’s way and plan. But Jesus resisted! How?

Three times the Evil One tempted Jesus and three times Jesus quoted Scripture and God’s truth. Jesus overcame temptation because He was prepared for temptation. Are you? You can be prepared for temptation, too, if you read/memorize Scripture, pray regularly, attend worship each week, and spend quiet time with God. Let’s stay strong! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

ALABASTER OFFERING CONTINUES! 

What a blessing to receive more Alabaster Offerings this week! If my calculations are correct this brings our total to $372.80! We will leave the Alabaster Church up for one more week if you would like to give to this offering we take up twice a year to purchase land and buildings on the mission field. Bless you for giving! 

CRISIS CARE KIT BLESSINGS! WOW!

Well, when all was said and done Janie reported we collected enough items to create 12 Crisis Care Kits!! What a joy to think of the 12 faces that will light up when they receive the comb, toothbrush, soap, and washcloths you provided! I can see a few kids laughing over your beany babies and the adults thankful they can wash their faces! Bless you for being the hands and feet of Christ in a crisis to people you will never meet! Praise God!

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME (DST) STARTS MAR. 08 – SPRING FORWARD!!

Don’t forget to ‘Spring Forward’ an hour before you go to sleep Sat., Mar. 07 or you run the risk of either missing Sunday school or church altogether! (hey, I heard that and I’m praying for you!) Seriously, when D.S.T. starts it means spring is just around the corner. 

TEAM DAY BUS LEAVES AT 7:00AM! 

Ok, we don’t have a bus, but we do have 6 people registered for Team Day and if you would like to drive a car or ride with Pastor Dan and Janie you’ll need to let them know as soon as possible and plan on meeting them at the parsonage and leave at 7:00am. 

THE SEWER IS COMING! THE SEWER IS COMING!

While it’s indeed exciting news, it just doesn’t have the same ‘ring’ that ‘the windows are coming,’ did! But we’re thankful to announce because of the generous financial gift Phyllis Plath made last fall, the church board approved ‘sleeving’ the cracked, leaking, and root-filled sewer line to the parsonage this week! We can already see the ‘utility flags’ in the yard and are looking forward to a sewer that neither backs up nor requires annual ‘sewer rooting.’ So, if you see Pastor Dan dancing on a pile of dirt in the yard of the parsonage this week, he’s not nuts, he’s simply ‘Praising God!’ Thank you Phyllis for investing in the future of our church! We praise God for your faithfulness! Amen!

DO YOU WANT TO JOIN OR START A SPRING WALKING CLUB?

A couple of years ago we had several of you say you wanted to have a 5k walking club and so we started one and walked 10 weeks together all over! Since Spring is right around the corner (it really is!) I’d like to know if anyone would like to walk Tue. nights beginning Mar. 24 from 6:30-7:30pm. Let Pastor Dan know if you would be interested! 

WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY (AND ICE CREAM) AT 6:30PM

If you were in church this week you heard Jean C. testifying and inviting everyone to our Wed. Night Program. We sing, we pray, and then let our souls drink deeply in the Bible! (and we get ice cream, too!) Come check it out! You’ll be glad you did! 

SPEAKING OF FITNESS….

It could be because I saw the sun today, but I am also wondering if anyone would be interested in a few slow and relaxing Sunday afternoon bike rides down a safe trail? I promise in advance nobody is going to get left behind and nobody is going to suffer! But, I can’t promise I won’t stop for ice cream and laugh a lot! These would probably start in mid-May and continue off and on through the summer. Let Pastor Dan know if you are interested. This would be a great event to invite a friend! (smile)

NEXT THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH IS MAR. 19^th AT 11:30AM 

Five of us joined together and laughed, ate, and enjoyed each other’s fellowship at the Hibachi Grill in Feb. Our next Third Thursday lunch is Mar. 19 at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target). Look for the coupon and come! Questions? See Tracy or Linda!

NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., MAR. 22^nd AT 4PM

Our next missionary gathering is Sun., Mar. 22^nd at 4pm. Come enjoy a brief study to learn what our missionaries are doing, how we can join them with our prayers, and enjoy snacks and laughter together. It’s a lot of fun and you might just learn something! Last month we offered a chance to win a Coney Combo at the Grand Coney! So bring a snack, bring a friend, hmm…even bring an enemy and join us! You’ll be glad you did! 

GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER REQUESTS 

Remember, to keep our prayer lists current, we only place requests in the newsletter and bulletin for 3 weeks without an update. If you want to keep your prayer request in the bulletin or newsletter just keep filling out the tear off tabs and keep us informed! 

OUR NEXT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY POTLUCK IS APRIL 12

Just a reminder! Our next Northeast Community Potluck is April 12^th. If you missed the last potluck you missed a lot! Our ladies and men really know how to cook! Why, we even had six homemade desserts! (can you tell what I remembered?) Seriously, make plans to bring a friend, a dish to pass, and join us after the Apr. 12 worship service! If you could help set up, serve, or clean up, please call Cherry Pakiela at (616) 916-7595

GREETINGS AND THANKS FROM AFRICA!

Last month our local missions department received a letter from Rev. Daniel Gomis, Field Strategy Coordinator in Dakar, Senegal in Africa. He wrote in part:

By way of this letter I wish to acknowledge receipt of your generous gifts last year of $25 each for the Senegal Bible Story Book Project, the Wells & Gardens project, and the Senegal Studio Project. Your gifts are an encouragement to all the men and women devoted in making Christ-like Disciples in the nineteen (19) nations of West Africa. It also shows our interconnectedness as people having the cause of the Gospel in common and the love and optimism for humanity…. On behalf of the current and future believers in West Africa, I thank you for partnering with us in the exciting and challenging Mission of God… 

Ever wonder if your gifts to ‘missions’ makes a difference? Just look what $75 did! God is good! Thank you to everyone who gives sacrificially to missions! To God be the Glory! 

NEW DIRECTORIES ARE AVAILABLE!

As you have probably realized, our church family directory changes frequently! Whew, you keep us busy! Thankfully, Gerry Dawson is all over it! This week we will have a new directory available at the Bible Study Wed. night and on the table outside the sanctuary Sunday! Check it for accuracy, let us know, and we’ll get your changes in the next one! 

DO WE HAVE YOUR BIRTHDAY, ANNIVERSARY, AND EMAIL INFO?

As you have probably noticed, we put our church family’s birthdays and anniversaries in our weekly program. Do we have yours? If you’d like to be included, simply add your info to the ‘tear off tab’ and drop it in the offering plate or email Pastor Dan! Thanks!

DON’T FORGET TO READ YOUR MISSIONARY BOOKS! 

Remember, to get your missionary books read by the end of March! There will be prizes for everyone who gets them read! Chuckie Cheese for kids, a Concert for the teens, and a White Caps game for the adults. If you need a book or a book on CD see Janie! Our goals is to have 100 read by May and we are currently at 83. Read Read Read! (smile)

EASTER FLOWERS ARE COMING SOON! 

I don’t have any details yet, and while my memory is clearly foggy from time to time, I remember Gerry saying we were going to order Easter Lilies again this year. So, keep you eyes pealed for the details… I’ll give them to you as soon as I have them!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mar. 07     Tri-District Team Day in Perry, MI

Mar. 08     Daylight Savings Time Begins!

Mar. 19     Third Thursday Lunch 11:30am at Hibachi Grill

Mar. 22     Missionary Gathering 4pm at the parsonage

Mar. 24     Tentative - Spring Walking Club 

Mar. 29     Palm Sunday

Apr. 05     Easter Sunday

Apr. 12     Northeast Community Potluck (after the worship service)

Northeast Community News – February 16, 2015

Dear Friends and Family! We had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! While it was surprisingly cold outside and actually a little cool inside, too, as our furnaces struggled to keep up, there was no need to despair because the fire of the Holy Spirit doesn’t depend on a man made furnace or warm outside air! Praise God for warming hearts and souls all the time! Amen! 

God’s message Sunday came from Mark 9:2-9 and was titled, ‘Mountain Top Glory.’ After Jesus had fed the 4,000, healed the man born blind, and Peter confessed, “You are the Christ,” Jesus predicted His death and took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain alone (v. 2a). While there“[Jesus] was transfigured before them. His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses,who were talking with Jesus” (vv. 2b-4). 

The word ‘transfigured’ is from the Greek word ‘metamorphous’ which speaks of a radical change. As we complete Epiphany and begin Lent this ash Wed, we discover the transfiguration of Christ not only displays God’s glory, but is an open invitation for us to participate in life changing transformation, too!

First, the transfiguration is an affirmation of Jesus’ Divinity. In v. 7a we read, “Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: This is my Son, whom I love…” 

Even though the ‘cloud that enveloped them’ may have reminded them of Moses encounter with God, God’s voice made it clear… this was no Moses! While the people revered Moses, God made it clear Jesus was no Moses! Jesus was His Son whom He loved! 

Second, the transfiguration transformed the disciples! They would see Jesus in a new light and given the additional command to “Listen to Him” (v. 7b). Not only was Jesus greater than Moses and the Law, the Father elevated Jesus above Elijah, the great prophet Elijah who had left the earth in a chariot of fire! 

While the disciples had spent most of their life memorizing and following the Law and Prophets of the past, God made it clear they needed to listen to Jesus and follow Him from now on! As Jesus showed them the need to leave His mountain top glory and return to the valley and the Cross awaiting Him, so too, did the disciples realize they needed to take this encounter and follow Jesus into the valley, too!

What does this mean to us? First, the transfiguration serves as evidence of a supernatural God who is for us and a source of strength, comfort, hope. If you’re struggling in the valley with illness, grief, and death look up and catch a glimpse of the power of the transfiguration! Through the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit Jesus is near you! Seek His power, healing, help, and direction! You are not alone! 

The transfiguration also teaches us we cannot stay on the mountain top either! If you’re on the mountain top right now you need to take your encounter with God and head back down to the valley and share the good news with others.While Jesus gives each of us mountain top moments and they are glorious, we too, must get to work doing what God has called us to do! Let’s get started! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

ALABASTER OFFERING CONTINUES!

I received no less than 3 calls Sunday from people asking if they could bring their Alabaster offering to church this week! The simple and quick answer is, ‘YES!’ We must not let cold and bad weather prevent us from joining God in His mission! If you would like to give to Alabaster, we are going to leave the ‘church’ up in the back for 2 more weeks! Blessings on all of you who already gave! 

COMPASSIONATE MINISTRY - CRISIS CARE KITS - THROUGH THIS WEEK (FEB 22)!

Bring your toothbrushes, finger nail clippers and soap into church this week! You can purchase stuff or donate money and we’ll shop for you! The ‘overflow’ will be donated to North End Community Ministry. Bless you for showing God’s love!

Here is the shopping list to make 1 Crisis Care Kit:

• 1 Shampoo (12 to 18 oz.)
• 2 Bars of Soap (Bath size or larger)
• 1 Toothpaste (4.0 to 6.4 oz.)
• 3 Toothbrushes (in original packaging)
• 1 Box of Band-Aids (30 or more)
• 1 Fingernail clippers
• 1 Sturdy hair comb
• 2 Hand towels
• 4 Pocket sized pkgs. of Kleenex (tissue)
• 1 Beanie Baby sized stuffed toy

GREETINGS AND THANKS FROM AFRICA!

Last month our local missions department received a letter from Rev. Daniel Gomis, Field Strategy Coordinator in Dakar, Senegal in Africa. He wrote in part:

By way of this letter I wish to acknowledge receipt of your generous gifts last year of $25 each for the Senegal Bible Story Book Project, the Wells & Gardens project, and the Senegal Studio Project. Your gifts are an encouragement to all the men and women devoted in making Christ-like Disciples in the nineteen (19) nations of West Africa. It also shows our interconnectedness as people having the cause of the Gospel in common and the love and optimism for humanity…. On behalf of the current and future believers in West Africa, I thank you for partnering with us in the exciting and challenging Mission of God…  

Ever wonder if your gifts to ‘missions’ makes a difference? Just look what $75 did! God is good! Thank you to everyone who gives sacrificially to missions! To God be the Glory! Amen!

READ AND RETURN THOSE MISSIONARY BOOKS! 

Janie reported we have 78 books read so far with a goal of 100. Since many want to have their books read by the end of March to qualify for their prize, it is important you read them and then return them as soon as possible! I know 4 people who are waiting for one book and Savannah and Jeffrey are eagerly reading them, too! How fun!  

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME (DST) STARTS MAR. 08

Don’t forget to ‘Spring Forward’ an hour before you go to sleep Sat., Mar. 07 or you run the risk of either missing Sunday school or church altogether! (hey, I heard that and I’m praying for you!) Seriously, when D.S.T. starts it means spring is just around the corner. 

THE SEWER IS COMING! THE SEWER IS COMING!

Hmm, while it is indeed exciting news, it just doesn’t have the same ‘ring’ to it that ‘the windows are coming,’ did! But we are thankful to announce because of the generous financial gift Phyllis Plath made last fall, the church board approved ‘sleeving’ the old cracked, leaking, and root-filled sewer line to the parsonage this week! We can already see the ‘utility flags’ in the yard and are looking forward to a sewer line that neither backs up or require annual ‘sewer rooting.’ So, if you see an excavator and pile of dirt in the yard of the parsonage this week simply ‘Praise God’ and pray McDonald Plumbing doesn’t find any ‘surprises!’ Thank you Phyllis for making our ‘home’ more sanitary and investing in the future of the church! Praise God for your faithfulness! Amen!

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY (AND ICE CREAM) AT 6:30PM

If you were in church this week you heard Jean C. testifying and inviting everyone to our Wed. Night Program. We sing, we pray, and then let our souls drink deeply in the Bible! (and we get ice cream, too!) Come check it out! You’ll be glad you did! 

NEXT THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH IS FEB. 19^thAT 11:30AM 

Finish off your Valentines Candy and come join us for our next Third Thursday lunch at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target) at 11:30am. You did remember Valentines Day, right? Perhaps this year you could remember Valentines Day with one of our shut in’s or widows? Regardless, look for the coupon and come! See Tracy or Linda with ?’s

NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., FEB. 22^st AT 4PM

Our next missionary gathering is Sun., Feb. 22^nd at 4pm. Come enjoy a brief study to learn what our missionaries are doing, how we can join them with our prayers, gifts of financial support, and enjoy snacks and laughter together. It’s really a lot of fun and you might just learn how to be a missionary, here! Since we show a brief video Jane always makes popcorn for us! So bring a snack to pass and join us! You’ll be glad you did! 

GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER REQUESTS 

Remember, to keep our prayer lists current, we only place requests in the newsletter and bulletin for 3 weeks without an update. If you want to keep your prayer request in the bulletin or newsletter just keep filling out the tear off tabs and keep us informed! 

DO WE HAVE YOUR BIRTHDAY, ANNIVERSARY, AND EMAIL INFO?

As you have probably noticed, we put our church family’s birthdays and anniversaries in our weekly program. Do we have yours? If you’d like to be included, simply add your info to the ‘tear off tab’ and drop it in the offering plate or email Pastor Dan! Thanks!

OUR NEXT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY POTLUCK IS APRIL 12

Just a reminder! Our next Northeast Community Potluck is April 12^th. If you missed the last potluck you missed a lot! Our ladies and men really know how to cook! Why, we even had six homemade desserts! (can you tell what I remembered?) Seriously, make plans to bring a friend, a dish to pass, and join us after the Apr. 12 worship service! If you could help set up, serve, or clean up, please call Cherry Pakiela at (616) 916-7595

TEAM DAY 2014 – SATURDAY, MAR. 08 (FINAL REG. DEADLINE FEB. 22nd)

There are workshops on General Leadership, Worship and Technology, Missions, Discipleship, and Children’s and Youth Ministries. The cost is $35 until Feb. 22nd (no late reg. is accepted). We already have 6 people registered! Need more info? Grab a brochure, or check this link! http://www.minaz.org/files/858/File/TD15-Brochure.pdf

UPCOMING EVENTS

til Feb. 22 Crisis Care Kits

Feb. 15 Alabaster Offering

Feb. 18 Ash Wednesday – Lent begins

Mar. 07 Tri-District Team Day in Perry, MI

Mar. 08 Daylight Savings Time Begins! (Spring forward an hour)

Mar. 29 Palm Sunday

Apr. 05 Easter Sunday

Apr. 12 Northeast Community Potluck (after the worship service)

NE Community News February 10

Good Morning Dear Ones!

For the last few months I’ve been answering the telephone, ‘Good Morning.’ Sometimes it really is ‘morning,’ but more often than not, its afternoon, evening, or even late at night. It’s my attempt to humorously communicate I’m behind!  So, as I began to write this afternoon (a day late) it just seemed appropriate to wish you good morning! (smile!) 

Regardless, of when you receive this newsletter know it was another wonderful day in the Lord last Sunday! We had great Sunday school hour and worship service and ended our time together with an incredible potluck with lots of help to clean up! Larry said we had a great offering, too, and people are bringing things for Crisis Care Kits! God is good! Amen!

God’s message Sunday came from Mark 1:29-39 and was titled, “Living like Jesus.” Jesus has left the synagogue in Capernaum where He amazed the people with His teaching, and His power and authority over a demoniac (last week’s lesson) and has gone to Simon Peter and Andrew's home with James and John in tow where they discover Simon Peter’s mother in law has a fever and is bed-ridden. So what do they do? ‘they told Jesus about her’ (v. 30). Do you know people who are sick emotionally, physically, or spiritually? Tell Jesus about them!

Second, we discover once again Jesus has the power to heal completely! After telling Jesus about her, Jesus …went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them” (v. 31). Jesus not only healed her fever, but He restores her strength and she jumps out of bed and begins serving! Well that draws everyone in town to Simon’s door (vv.32-34). Do they come to Simon-Peter’s door because he offers good cookies, better coffee, and a better praise team? Nope, the people are coming to be healed by Jesus! 

Do you want to grow our church? It begins by telling Jesus about sick people (prayer) and then inviting them into a relationship with Jesus (evangelism, witness, and testimony).  We have everything we need to grow our church! But it begins with loving the broken, hurting, and sick people living around us and getting involved telling Jesus and inviting them! 

Finally, Jesus offers two bits of advice to those who would ‘live like Jesus.’ Those who would involve themselves with loving broken, hurting, and sick people would be wise to regularly pray like Jesus (v. 35), remain humble, give God the glory, and keep sharing the good news (v. 38). So, reach out to the sick, give them to Jesus, invite them to church and keep yourself healthy! God is moving dear ones! Let’s join Him in His mission! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

LOST! A PAIR OF MEN’S DRESS GLOVES!!

Rev. Christopher lost his gloves Sunday and needs help! If you saw a pair of gloves and either picked them up or know where they are, could you contact pastor? He received them as a gift and they are very special to him. His cell is (616) 308-6612 and his email is: pastor1014@yahoo.com  Thanks!

NEXT ALABASTER OFFERING IS THIS SUNDAY! (FEB. 15) 

Our next Alabaster Offering will take place on Sunday, Feb. 15^th. This is a “loose change” offering we take up twice a year and every penny of the proceeds goes directly to the mission field to purchase land and buildings. If you would like an Alabaster box to start filling, just ask Janie in the sound booth on Sunday morning. Thank you!

READ AND RETURN THOSE MISSIONARY BOOKS! 

Janie reported we have 78 books read so far with a goal of 100. Since many want to have their books read by the end of March to qualify for their prize, it is important you read them and then return them as soon as possible! I know 4 people who are waiting for one book and Savannah and Jeffrey are eagerly reading them, too! How fun!  

WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY (AND ICE CREAM) AT 6:30PM

If you were in church this week you heard Jean C. testifying and inviting everyone to our Wed. Night Program. We sing, we pray, and then let our souls drink deeply in the Bible! (and we get ice cream, too!) Come check it out! You’ll be glad you did! 

COMPASSIONATE MINISTRY - CRISIS CARE KITS - THROUGH FEB 22!

Get your toothbrushes, wash clothes and beany babies ready! Our Nazarene Missions International Council is asking us to collect items for Crisis Care Kits (CCK)! CCK is a cooperative effort between our global missions and Nazarene compassionate ministries to collect and send basic toiletries to those experiencing a ‘crisis’ around the world. You can purchase items or kits or donate money and we’ll shop for you! The ‘overflow’ will be donated to North End Community Ministry. Bless you for showing God’s love!

Here is the shopping list to make 1 Crisis Care Kit:

·       1 Shampoo (12 to 18 oz.)

·       2 Bars of Soap (Bath size or larger)

·       1 Toothpaste (4.0 to 6.4 oz.)

·       3 Toothbrushes (in original packaging)

·       1 Box of Band-Aids (30 or more)

·       1 Fingernail clippers

·       1 Sturdy hair comb

·       2 Hand towels

·       4 Pocket sized pkgs. of Kleenex (tissue)

·       1 Beanie Baby sized stuffed toy

Each Crisis Care Kit (CCK) should only contain the items/quantities listed. Remember! You don’t have to buy a ‘whole kit’ just bring what you can and we’ll put them together!

NEXT THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH IS FEB. 19^th AT 11:30AM

Finish off your Valentines Candy and come join us for our next Third Thursday lunch at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target) at 11:30am. You did remember Valentines Day, right? Perhaps this year you could remember Valentines Day with one of our shut in’s or widows? Regardless, look for the coupon and come! See Tracy or Linda with ?’s

NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., FEB. 22^st AT 4PM

Our next missionary gathering is Sun., Feb. 22^nd at 4pm. Come enjoy a brief study to learn what our missionaries are doing, how we can join them with our prayers, gifts of financial support, and enjoy snacks and laughter together. It’s really a lot of fun and you might just learn how to be a missionary, here! Since we show a brief video Jane always makes popcorn for us! So bring a snack to pass and join us! You’ll be glad you did! 

GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER REQUESTS 

Remember, to keep our prayer lists current, we only place requests in the newsletter and bulletin for 3 weeks without an update. If you want to keep your prayer request in the bulletin or newsletter just keep filling out the tear off tabs and keep us informed! 

DO WE HAVE YOUR BIRTHDAY, ANNIVERSARY, AND EMAIL INFO?

As you have probably noticed, we put our church family’s birthdays and anniversaries in our weekly program. Do we have yours? If you’d like to be included, simply add your info to the ‘tear off tab’ and drop it in the offering plate or email Pastor Dan! Thanks!

OUR NEXT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY POTLUCK IS APRIL 12

Just a reminder! Our next Northeast Community Potluck is April 12^th. If you missed the last potluck you missed a lot! Our ladies and men really know how to cook! Why, we even had six homemade desserts! (can you tell what I remembered?) Seriously, make plans to bring a friend, a dish to pass, and join us after the Apr. 12 worship service! If you could help set up, serve, or clean up, please call Cherry Pakiela at (616) 916-7595

TEAM DAY 2014 – SATURDAY, MAR. 08 (FINAL REG. DEADLINE FEB. 22nd)

There are workshops on General Leadership, Worship and Technology, Missions, Discipleship, and Children’s and Youth Ministries. The cost is $35 until Feb. 22nd (no late reg. is accepted). We already have 6 people registered! Need more info? Grab a brochure, or check this link! http://www.minaz.org/files/858/File/TD15-Brochure.pdf

UPCOMING EVENTS

til Feb. 22         Crisis Care Kits

Feb. 15     Alabaster Offering

Feb. 18     Ash Wednesday – Lent begins

Mar. 07    Tri-District Team Day in Perry, MI

Mar. 29    Palm Sunday

Apr. 05     Easter Sunday

Apr. 12     Northeast Community Potluck (after the worship service)

Northeast Community News – February 02, 2015

Hello Friends and Family! Happy Groundhog’s Day! I read that the famed groundhog Punxsutawney Phil emerged in Pennsylvania at dawn this morning and promptly saw his shadow which indicates a longer winter season. Nobody has to tell us about long winters!

While we certainly had another wonderful day in the Lord, we were a little down in attendance as only the brave ones (or fools according to some) saw the weather prediction of a blizzard and decided to come anyway! Since it was the first Sunday, we received Communion in addition to the great testimonies, robust singing, preaching and time of prayer! God is good! (All the time!)

God’s message yesterday came from Mark 1:21-28 and titled, “Amazed by His Authority.” In Who or what authority do you put your confidence and trust in? We live in a culture where great political leaders often speak confidently of what they will change, but often very little changes….and, if were not careful we’ll become cynical and lose hope.

But, in our text we meet a leader that IS powerful and can give us confidence and hope! Jesus! While the people were rightly “…amazed at His teaching, because He taught them as one who had authority…” we see in His exchange with the demon possessed man Jesus has authority and power over the unseen realm, too! Jesus orders this evil spirit to “Be quiet! said Jesus sternly. Come out of him!” (Mark 1:26).  And it came out of him with a shriek!

We should note this exorcism required no special format or power or place. Jesus simply spoke and the evil spirit obeyed and left. Are you toying with evil in your own life? Maybe you are trying to simply cohabitate with evil instead of asking Jesus to remove it. Look, you need not live a life of misery and defeat. Jesus said, The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

If Jesus has the power and authority to remove evil (and He does), why not simply ask Jesus to help you make the changes you need in your life?  It isn’t a question of power on His part; it’s a question of willingness on your part to confess, repent, and ask Him to change you!

Want real change? Trust in Jesus! Only Jesus has the authority and power to help you make real changes in your life! And unlike a politician, Jesus doesn’t just promise! He delivers!

Those first century hearers couldn’t wait to tell others what they’d witnessed (v. 28). How about you? Has Jesus changed your life? Are you still amazed at His teaching? His healing? His ability to give you victory? Go spread the Good News! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

OUR NEXT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY POTLUCK IS THIS SUNDAY! (Feb. 08)

Just a reminder! Our next Northeast Community Potluck is THIS SUNDAY! So, bring a friend, a dish to pass, and join us downstairs in the fellowship hall after worship this week for a time of food, fun, and fellowship! If you would like to help set up, serve, or clean up, please call Cherry Pakiela at (616) 916-7595

TEAM DAY 2014 – SATURDAY, MAR. 08 (EARLY REG DEADLINE FEB. 08)

All three Michigan Districts are joining again for one big day of inspiration, information and training at Perry High and Middle Schools On Mar. 08 between 8:00am–3:50pm. There are workshops on General Leadership, Worship and Technology, Missions, Discipleship, and Children’s and Youth Ministries. The cost is $25 if you give your registration to Anna before Feb. 08th and $35 until Feb. 22nd (no late reg. is accepted). Need more info? See Pastor Dan, grab a brochure, or check out this link! http://www.minaz.org/files/858/File/TD15-Brochure.pdf

Note: Because Team Day organizers have requested one registration per church, please coordinate your registration through Pastor Dan and Anna Boeve! Thanks!

NEXT ALABASTER OFFERING IS FEB. 15!

Our next Alabaster Offering will take place on Sunday, Feb. 15^th. This is a “loose change” offering we take up twice a year and every penny of the proceeds goes directly to the mission field to purchase land and buildings. If you would like an Alabaster box to start filling, just ask Janie in the sound booth on Sunday morning. Thank you!

2015 GIVING ENVELOPES ARE FOR EVERYONE!

Someone recently asked me if you needed to be a member to receive a box of giving envelopes? The answer is a hearty no! Everyone is encouraged to ask Anna or Janie for a box of giving envelopes so they can give regularly and receive credit on their giving statement for their faithfulness! I encourage everyone to get a box and give faithfully!

YABEEZ NASEEM SAYS THANK YOU FOR GIVING!

We received a letter from Yabeez Naseem (along with a crayon drawing of an orange) from our sponsored child in Pakistan. He writes (translated to English of course)

“Dear Sponsor – I am thankful from the deepest of my heart that you are helping me in my study. I have learned many good things. I like to play hide and seek. I want to be a doctor after study.”

Bless you for your faithful giving! Our local NMI sponsors Yabeez out of the ‘loose change offering’ we receive each month. Sponsoring Yabeez only costs us $25 per month as a church, but we can see it is already making a big difference! Bless you!

 WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY (AND ICE CREAM) AT 6:30PM

Using “Faith Connections,” a Bible based study centered on Wesleyan holiness, we sing, pray, and then let our souls drink deeply in the Word! (and stay for ice cream!) Looking for a New Year’s faith builder? Well, come check out Wed. night! You’ll be glad you did!

COMPASSIONATE MINISTRY - CRISIS CARE KITS - THROUGH FEB 22!

Get your toothbrushes, wash clothes and beany babies ready! Our Nazarene Missions International Council is asking us to collect items for Crisis Care Kits (CCK)! CCK is a cooperative effort between our global missions and Nazarene compassionate ministries to collect and send basic toiletries to those experiencing a ‘crisis’ around the world. You can purchase items or kits or donate money and we’ll shop for you! The ‘overflow’ will be donated to North End Community Ministry. Bless you for showing God’s love!

Here is the shopping list to make 1 Crisis Care Kit:

·       1 Shampoo (12 to 18 oz.)

·       2 Bars of Soap (Bath size or larger)

·       1 Toothpaste (4.0 to 6.4 oz.)

·       3 Toothbrushes (in original packaging)

·       1 Box of Band-Aids (30 or more)

·       1 Fingernail clippers

·       1 Sturdy hair comb

·       2 Hand towels

·       4 Pocket sized pkgs. of Kleenex (tissue)

·       1 Beanie Baby sized stuffed toy

Each Crisis Care Kit (CCK) should contain only the items/quantities listed. Place all items into a 2 gallon zip-lock bag (or bring them to church and we’ll do it). Remember! You don’t have to buy a ‘whole kit’ just bring what you can and we’ll put them together!

WILL YOU HELP WITH A MIDDLE EAST GARAGE SALE?

With all of the problems in the Middle East, it’s easy to overlook the needs of the kids living there. While we can’t stop the violence, we can help these kids receive a quality education by DONATING quality new and used items to be sold in a spring garage sale. We hope to raise $250 to help our District raise $20,000 to support 4 Nazarene Schools operating in the Middle East who are shining stars in the midst of turmoil and conflict.

Bring your clean, gently used items (priced if possible) to church and place them on the table outside the classroom at the far end of the fellowship hall. If you would like a ‘tax receipt’ for your donation, see our Church Treasurer. Any questions? See Pastor Dan!

NEXT THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH IS FEB. 19^th AT 11:30AM

Finish off your Valentines Candy and come join us for our next Third Thursday lunch at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target) at 11:30am. You did remember Valentines Day, right? Perhaps this year you could remember Valentines Day with one of our shut in’s or widows? Regardless, look for the coupon and come! See Tracy or Linda with ?’s

NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., FEB. 21^st AT 4PM

Our next missionary gathering is Sun., Feb. 21^st at 4pm. Come enjoy a brief study to learn what our missionaries are doing, how we can join them with our prayers, gifts of financial support, and enjoy snacks and laughter together. It’s really a lot of fun and you might just learn how to be a missionary, here! Since we show a brief video Jane always makes popcorn for us! So bring a snack to pass and join us! You’ll be glad you did!

GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER REQUESTS

So, you read our prayer requests every week and wonder how you add someone to the list. Or maybe, you requested prayer and then discovered a few weeks later your prayer request disappeared and wondered what gives? Well, to keep our prayer lists current, we only place requests in the newsletter and bulletin if you’ve put them on the ‘tear-off’ tab in the Sunday program or contacted Pastor Dan and then they are removed after 3 weeks without an update. So, keep filling out the tear off tabs and keep us informed!

DO WE HAVE YOUR BIRTHDAY, ANNIVERSARY, AND EMAIL INFO?

As you have probably noticed, we put our church family’s birthdays and anniversaries in our weekly program. Do we have yours? If you’d like to be included, simply add your info to the ‘tear off tab’ and drop it in the offering plate or email Pastor Dan! Thanks!

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

til Feb. 22         Crisis Care Kits

Feb. 08     Northeast Community Potluck (after the worship service)

Feb. 15     Alabaster Offering

Feb. 18     Ash Wednesday – Lent begins

Mar. 07    Tri-District Team Day in Perry, MI

Mar. 29    Palm Sunday

Apr. 05     Easter Sunday