Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Northeast Community News – March 23, 2015


Hello Friends and Family! We had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! While the weather has turned a bit cold again, we know summer (like Easter) is coming! This Sunday is Palm Sunday and we will be handing out palms to everyone! Just 2 more weeks until the Season of Lent is over and we look forward to Pentecost May 24. Speaking of Pentecost, the Spirit of Christ was moving Sunday! Bless each of you for coming forward and committing your lives to living and sharing the gospel to the ‘Helen’s’ out there! It was a beautiful sight! Praise God! 
God’s message came from John 12:20-33 and titled, “Can You Help Us?” The reality is there are many facing trauma around us! In fact, you might be one of them! After Jesus entered Jerusalem, some Greeks came to Philip and asked to see Jesus (vv. 20-21). Did they come out curiosity or desperation? John doesn’t tell - but it’s clear they want to see Jesus! 
Question: ‘Are we a place where the curious can come looking for Jesus?’ Are we a place where the hurting and lost can come ‘just as they are’ to Christ? Jesus loved, accepted, and forgave everyone who came to Him… do we? Do we as a church? Do we as individuals?
Second, it’s clear Philip wasn’t ready for the request because he immediately went to tell Andrew and together they went to Jesus. Are you ready for those looking for Jesus? Do you read your Bibles, attend worship regularly and attend a discipleship class? We might also ask, ‘Who is your Andrew?’ Who would you seek out if an unbeliever ‘stumped you?’
Finally, Jesus declared the way to life is death (v. 23). Only when we let go of expectations, entitlements, and control and yield, follow, and serve Christ, do we find eternal life, God’s mission for our life, and reproduce! Are you willing to die to self and live? Are you willing to yield and let Christ lead? Are you willing to humbly serve so others may see Him?
Northeast Community IS a place where the curious are invited to see Jesus! In the next few months I will be actively inviting people to check us out! Maybe you would like to help? Are you prepared? If not, now is the time to get ready! Are you growing in your faith? If not, it’s time start praying, attend Sunday school, and regularly worship! Are you following Jesus and serving Him? If not, maybe, it is time to get involved! 
The reality is there are many in our neighborhoods who are in trauma and need to see Jesus. Perhaps this week, it will begin by seeing you! I hope so! Blessings, Pastor Dan
NEWS AND EVENTS
EASTER WORLD EVANGELISM FUND (WEF) OFFERING –APR. 05!
The Easter Season is upon us, and we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! One of the ways we celebrate is to give to World Evangelism Fund which funds the entire global Church of the Nazarene including 378 missionaries working in 159 different world areas. 
Your partnership with WEF helps fulfill the Great Commission to make Christlike Disciples in the Nations and everyone needs to be involved! Bless those give already through Faith Promise and regular giving! Everyone is responsible for reaching the lost! 
SPRING CLEAN UP! SAT., APR. 18 - 9:00AM - 1:00PM - BRING RAKES!
To rewrite a familiar poem to serve our purposes:
“Spring has sprung, the grass has riz, I wonder where the workers is?”
Well, according to Larry, the workers will arrive at 9:00am on Saturday, April 18th and work until 1:00pm. Seriously, with the snow gone it’s time to rake the last of the leaves and do general cleaning around the church! Everyone is invited! Hope to see you there!
NO FOOLING! WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY IS MOVING APRIL 01 @ 6:30PM
We’ve enjoyed the close and cozy time (and gas savings) by doing our Wed. night Bible studies at the parsonage through the winter, but with the weather warming, it’s time to move back to the church! Starting Apr. 01, we’ll start in the Sanctuary singing and then move into our small groups for prayer and Bible Study! We’ll finish with an ice cream social! So, come, let your thirsty soul drink deeply in the Word, share burdens in prayer and fill your tummy with ice cream, too! This is going to be a good time! No fooling! 
EAT CAMPBELL’S SOUP AND HELP NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!
Did you know every Campbell Label (UPC code) is worth .10 cents? Me neither, but that’s what Fran S. and Sherry J. shared recently. While this may seem insignificant, when people work together collecting them, they really add up fast! Specifically, these labels have helped Nazarene Sun Valley Indian School in Sun Valley, AZ. buy computers, refrigerators, PA equipment and even a 15-passenger van! Wow! Want to do your part? Start collecting and turning cutting the Campbell labels and box tops off and give them to Fran S. and Sherry J. beginning this week! If you have any questions, see Fran or Sherry or go to this link: http://www.indianschool.org/cambells-labels.html
LADIES RENDEZVOUS – SAT., MAR. 28 @ 10:30AM
The ladies are planning to get together at the church on Sat., Mar. 28th at 10:30am. All ladies are invited and welcome! Please see Gerry D. or Cherry P. for details! 
EASTER EGG HUNT FOR KIDS – APR. 05 (after our Easter Service)
We are planning an Easter egg hunt for the kids right after our Easter Worship Service. All ages are invited to participate, but we usually give the little ones a head start! This is a great Sunday to invite friends and family! Let Janie know if you’d be willing to help!
WHAT WOULD IT TAKE FOR YOU TO GROW?
God challenged me with three words a year ago: pray – grow – serve! Every Christian should be involved in praying! Every Christian should be involved in serving! And every Christian should be growing! Are you growing in your knowledge of God and His ways? Every Sun. Gerry prepares a great lesson that starts at 10am. Why aren’t you coming? What would it take to disciple you for 30 min. a week? What time - curriculum - place - medium would it take? We’re interested! We want to make sure everyone is growing! 
DON’T FORGET TO READ YOUR MISSIONARY BOOKS! THE DEADLINE IS COMING!
Remember, to get your missionary books read by the end of March! There will be prizes for everyone who reads all of them! Chuckie Cheese for kids, a Concert for 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)
I HEARD THAT SILENCE! SPRING WALKING CLUB IS CANCELLED!
Ok, so I’ve been accused of not listening in the past (I heard that!), but I’ve heard you loud and clear regarding a walking club! You don’t want to walk, well, at least not right now and that’s ok! But, if anyone would like to join Joseph and I, just let me know! Trust me, Joe is always ready for a walk! In the meantime, consider the Tue. walks cancelled! 
MIDDLE EAST GARAGE SALE UPDATES AND DEADLINES!
The deadline to bring your things is Sun., Apr. 12th. While the sale is May 7-9, we need time to price, pack, and ship items to Wayland where Ron Morse will be selling them for us. We do need help pricing items Apr. 16 between 1:30-4:00pm (after Chinese lunch). We also need people willing to help load and unload the trailer being provided by Phil Pakiela on May 4 or 5.  If you can help, please let Gerry D. or Pastor Dan know! Thanks!
PREACHING AND WORSHIP AMBASSADORS ARE COMING APR. 12!
For five years now, Olivet Nazarene University has offered the ‘Preaching Ambassador Program.’ The preaching ambassador program gives students preparing for ministry an opportunity to preach at a local church while pursuing their academic degree, but also gives us an opportunity to see and hear “flesh and blood” examples of those we have supported at ONU. Last year, ONU added ‘worship leaders’ to this wonderful program! On Apr. 12 we welcome Pastor Esther Decker to preach the Word and Rosie Vavario to come lead our worship music! It will be a wonderful service! Please invite your friends! 
5th ANNUAL KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE – MAY 03-31
Can you believe we have been collecting diapers for 5 years! How exciting! Well, we are once again holding a diaper drive for North End Community Mission (NECM) in Grand Rapids. We have found diapers are an incredible need because they aren’t provided by most assistance programs and are a huge expense for some of the ‘least of these.’ This year we would like to collect 1,200 diapers. 
SUNDAY AFTERNOON BIKE RIDES ANYONE?
Some of us like to take a ‘Nazarene Nap’ Sun. afternoons and others like to get out into nature and enjoy each other’s company! I say why not both? If you can eat lunch quick and take a shorter power nap you will still have time to join us for a few relaxing Sun. afternoon bike rides down a safe trail! I promise nobody will get left behind or is going to suffer! But, I can’t promise we won’t stop for ice cream and laugh a lot! Let Pastor Dan know if you’re interested. This would be a great event to invite a friend! 
SUMMER CAMP IS COMING SOON! TIME TO REGISTER!
Indian Lake Nazarene Camp has a wonderful summer camp for students of all ages. At camp kids learn to feel good about who they are, gain self-confidence and self-esteem, learn leadership skills, make friends, and learn about God’s love for them! You can learn more by going to this link: http://www.nazcamp.org/camps
Discovery Camp       Completed K – 2nd grade Jun. 29 – July 1
Adventure Camp      Completed 2nd – 4th grade        Jul. 06-10
Voyager Camp Completed 4th – 6th grade         Jul. 20-24
Mid. School Camp    Completed 6th – 8th grade         Jun. 15-19
High School Camp   Completed 9th – 12th grade       Jun. 22-26
Note: All camps are $ 270 (except for Discovery Camp which is $ 120)
IS SOMEONE MISSING? SEND THEM A POSTCARD!
Is someone missing? Someone you looked forward to seeing but they haven’t been here in awhile? Or, is there someone you’d like to invite to church, a potluck, or Sun. school, but you weren’t sure how to go about it? Well, one possibility is to send a postcard! If you’d like some, you’ll find them on the table by the mission’s bulletin board! Bless you!
OUR NEXT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY POTLUCK IS APRIL 12
Just a reminder! Our next Northeast Community Potluck is April 12th. 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
NEXT THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH, APR. 16, (AT HIBACHI GRILL) 
Our next Third Thursday Chinese Lunch is at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target). Remember! It’s more than food! It’s a time to share our joys, concerns and even laugh! So grab a friend and come to Hibachi at 11:30! Questions? See Tracy or Linda!
NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., APR. 19th AT 4PM (AT CHURCH!)
Our next missionary gathering is Sun., Apr. 19th at 4pm at the church. Come enjoy a brief study, learn what our missionaries are doing, how to pray for them, and learn to be missionary in our own neighborhoods! We also enjoy snacks and laughter together! So bring a snack, a friend, (even an enemy!) and join us! You’ll be glad you did! 
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER – MAY 07
The first Thursday of the May is always the National Day of Prayer in America. Look for an insert in the bulletin in late April to guide your prayers. If you’d like to come to the church to pray, the sanctuary will be open between 10:00am – Noon and you will have an opportunity to pray for America at our altar.
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!
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! 
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mar. 28     Ladies Rendezvous 10:30am (at the church)
Mar. 29     Palm Sunday
Apr. 01     Wed. Night Bible Study (at the church) Ice Cream Social to follow!
Apr. 05     Easter Sunday (Children’s Easter Egg Hunt)
Apr. 12     ONU Preaching/Worship Ambassadors and NEC Potluck after the service 
Apr. 12     Deadline to bring ‘garage sale stuff’ to church
Apr. 16     Chinese Lunch at 11:30am
Apr. 16     Sort / Price Garage Sale Stuff 1:30-4:00pm
Apr. 19     Missionary Gathering 4pm (at the church)
May 03-31        5th Annual Diaper Drive
May 07     National Day of Prayer
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Monday, March 16, 2015

Northeast Community News – March 16, 2015

Northeast Community News – March 16, 2015
Hello Dear Ones! 
What another wonderful day we had in the Lord, yesterday! It was sunny and warm and many of us are beginning to sense the grip of winter is slipping. Perhaps it is the season of Lent or our recent messages from God, but I couldn’t help wonder if the grip of sin on your life is gripping or slipping as we move towards Easter? You don’t have to remain trapped in the snow and ice of sin! Jesus makes it possible through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to be cleansed from your past and live in a whole new life of victory! 
God’s message came from John 3:14-21 and was titled, “The Gift of Eternal Life.” Do you like taking your medicine? While most of us have matured to the point where we realize we need to or pay the consequences in our physical health, many still deny God has a remedy for our sin-sick souls, too! Still others simply refuse to receive the medicine: Jesus!
In our text Jesus is reminding His hearers of an O.T. lesson from Numbers (the 4th book in the Bible) 21:4-9. There we find the Israelites complaining about being delivered from their bondage! “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the desert? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!” (Numbers 21:5b).
While God had miraculously delivered them, they still complained. Consequently God sent an attack by poisonous snakes. The people were saved when God answered Moses’ prayer by commanding Moses to make a bronze serpent, lift it up on a pole, and have the people look at it. God didn’t remove the snakes or keep them from biting, but He did give them a cure, a medicine of sorts. When they took their medicine, looked at the serpent, they lived.
Our text takes us full circle. Back to the bronze snake; back to sinful rebellious people; back to a need for medicine. And God provided a way to survive and thrive in the midst of biting and poisonous snakes through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ!
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” (John 3:16-17).
Look, God knows you’re hurting and suffering from the sickness of sin and all it entails. He knows your temptations, struggles, failures, and the ‘poisonous snakes’ nipping at you and in love has provided the medicine: Jesus Christ! Will you receive Jesus? Will you confess and believe in Jesus or continue living a life filled with sinful complaining, ingratitude, and mistrust? Take your medicine! Choose Jesus! I pray you did! Amen! Blessings, Pastor Dan
NEWS AND EVENTS
LADIES RENDEZVOUS – SAT., MAR. 28 @ 10:30AM
The ladies are planning to get together at the church on Sat., Mar. 28th at 10:30am. All ladies are invited and welcome! Please see Gerry D. or Cherry P. for details! 
SUNDAY (3-22) IS THE LAST DAY TO ORDER YOUR EASTER FLOWERS 
This Sunday is the last day to order and pay for your Easter Flowers. Don’t forget you have the option of ordering them ‘in memory of’ or ‘in honor of’ someone(s) which will be listed in the weekly program as an insert. If you have any questions, see Gerry D.
WHAT WOULD IT TAKE TO SEE YOU IN SUNDAY SCHOOL?
Every Sunday Gerry prepares an amazing lesson for Adults that starts at 10am. Why aren’t you coming? I’ve heard some think it’s too early – too boring – it’s only for adults and I’ve heard you really don’t need it to live a Christian life. Really? So, what would it take to disciple you for 30 min. a week? What time - curriculum - place - medium would it take? Challenge us! We’re interested! We want to make sure everyone is growing! 
THIS THURSDAY (MAR. 19) IS CHINESE LUNCH AT 11:30AM
This Thu. we are meeting at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target). Remember! It’s more than food! It’s a time when we share each other’s joys and concerns and laugh, too! So grab a friend and make your way to Hibachi! Any questions? See Tracy or Linda!
NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., MAR. 22nd AT 4PM
Our next missionary gathering is Sun., Mar. 22ndat 4pm. Come enjoy a brief study and learn what our missionaries are doing, how we can join them in prayer, learn how to be a missionary in our own neighborhoods, and enjoy snacks and laughter together. It’s a lot of fun and you might just learn something (in spite of yourself! :) Last month you had a chance to win a Coney Combo at the Grand Coney! What will happen this month? So bring a snack, bring a friend, (even an enemy) and join us! You’ll be glad you did! 
EASTER EGG HUNT FOR KIDS – APR. 05 (after our Easter Service)
For several years now we have held an Easter egg hunt for our kids immediately following our Easter Morning Worship Service. All ages are invited to participate, but we usually give the little ones a head start! This is a great Sunday to invite friends and family! Let Janie know if you’d be willing to help stuff eggs and prepare for the hunt!
THE SEWER IS DONE! THE YARD IS A MESS!
McDonald plumbing arrived last Friday to replace the leaking, cracked, offset, root filled sewer line at the parsonage and I rejoice to advise you after many setbacks including the need to dig a second hole, it is complete! ‘Praise God!’ While the yard is a mess we know there’s nothing like some rain, settling, raking, and a little grass seed to heal it! Thank you Phyllis for investing in the future of our church! Bless your faithfulness!!
MIDDLE EAST GARAGE SALE UPDATES AND DEADLINES!
If you’ve received this newsletter for any length of time, you know we’re collecting stuff to sell to raise money for 4 Nazarene Schools operating in the Middle East. Continue to bring your clean and gently used items to church and place them in the fellowship hall. Bless everyone who has brought something or is planning to bring some things to sell. 
Today, I want to make you aware of a few details. First, we will STOP receiving items on Sun., Apr. 12th.While the sale is May 7-9, we need time to price, pack, and ship items to Wayland where Ron Morse will be selling them for us. Second, we need people to come help price items Apr. 16 between 1:30-4:00pm(after Chinese lunch). Finally, we need people willing to help load and unload a large enclosed trailer being provided by Phil Pakiela on May 4 or 5.  If you can help, please let Gerry D. or Pastor Dan know! Thanks!
PREACHING AND WORSHIP AMBASSADORS ARE COMING APR. 12!
For five years now, Olivet Nazarene University has offered the ‘Preaching Ambassador Program.’ The preaching ambassador program gives students preparing for ministry an opportunity to preach at a local church while pursuing their academic degree, but also gives us an opportunity to see and hear “flesh and blood” examples of those we have supported at ONU. Last year, ONU added ‘worship leaders’ to this wonderful program! On Apr. 12 we welcome Pastor Esther Decker to preach the Word and Rosie Vavario to come lead our worship music! It will be a wonderful service! Please invite your friends! 
5th ANNUAL KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE – MAY 03-31
Can you believe we have been collecting diapers for 5 years! How exciting! Well, we are once again holding a diaper drive for North End Community Mission (NECM) in Grand Rapids. We have found diapers are an incredible need because they aren’t provided by most assistance programs and are a huge expense for some of the ‘least of these.’ This year we would like to collect 1,200 diapers. 
I LOVE MY CAMP WEEKENDS – APR. 9-11and APR. 30-MAY 02
Do you love Indian Lake Nazarene Camp? Would you like to help get the camp ready for another busy and life-changing summer? If you would, Emily Compton at ILNC is willing to provide breakfast and lodging for free! Just call her at (269) 649-2281 or email her at ecompton@nazcamp.org to register! Projects include scrapping and painting, washing siding, raking and picking up sticks, spreading topsoil, grass seed, and stacking wood!
PHYLLIS PLATH MOVED LAST WEEK!
Want to encourage and love someone who is no longer able to come be a part of us each week? Phyllis Plath just moved and it would be nice if you would stop by or send a card. 
> Phyllis Plath – Emerald Meadows - 6117 Charlevoix Woods Ct SE – GR – 49546
DO YOU WANT TO JOIN OR START A SPRING WALKING CLUB?
So far, I’ve only heard from 1 person interested in walking! If you’re interested but wish it were another day, let me know! Spring is just around the corner! I originally planned Tue. nights, but I’m flexible! Interested? Last call! (smile) Let Pastor Dan know! 
SPEAKING OF FITNESS….
I’m also wondering if you might be interested in a few slow and relaxing Sunday afternoon bike rides down a safe trail? I promise nobody will get left behind or is going to suffer! But, I can’t promise we won’t stop for ice cream and laugh a lot! Let Pastor Dan know if you’re interested. This would be a great event to invite a friend! 
SUMMER CAMP IS COMING SOON! TIME TO REGISTER!
Indian Lake Nazarene Camp has a wonderful summer camp for students of all ages. At camp kids learn to feel good about who they are, gain self-confidence and self-esteem, learn leadership skills, make friends, and learn about God’s love for them! You can learn more by going to this link: http://www.nazcamp.org/camps
Discovery Camp       Completed K – 2nd grade Jun. 29 – July 1
Adventure Camp      Completed 2nd – 4th grade   Jul. 06-10
Voyager Camp Completed 4th – 6th grade         Jul. 20-24
Mid. School Camp    Completed 6th – 8th grade    Jun. 15-19
High School Camp   Completed 9th – 12th grade  Jun. 22-26         
Note: All camps are $ 270 (except for Discovery Camp which is $ 120)
IS SOMEONE MISSING? WHY NOT SEND THEM A POSTCARD!
Is there someone missing? Someone you used to look forward to seeing each week but they haven’t been here in awhile? Or, maybe there’s someone you would like to invite to church or a potluck or Sunday school, but you’re not sure how to go about it. Well, one possibility is to send them a postcard! If you would like to send one or several, you will find them on the table in the back of the sanctuary! Bless you for caring!
OUR NEXT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY POTLUCK IS APRIL 12
Just a reminder! Our next Northeast Community Potluck is April 12th. 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. 12worship service! If you could help set up, serve, or clean up, please call Cherry Pakiela at (616) 916-7595
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER – MAY 07
The first Thursday of the May is always the National Day of Prayer in America. Look for an insert in the bulletin in late April to guide your prayers. If you’d like to come to the church to pray, the sanctuary will be open between 10:00am – Noonand you will have an opportunity to pray for America at our altar.

WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY (AND ICE CREAM) AT 6:30PM
What would it take to do something good for you? We all know coming together mid week not only lets our souls drink deeply in the Word, have an opportunity to share our burdens and pray and get ice cream, too, so what will it take for you to come? If you have ideas for taking part in discipleship, we need to hear them! You’re important to us!
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)
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! 
UPCOMING EVENTS
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 (Children’s Easter Egg Hunt)
Apr. 12     ONU Preaching/Worship Ambassadors and NEC Potluck after the service 
Apr. 12     Deadline to bring ‘garage sale stuff’ to church
May 07     National Day of Prayer
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Tuesday, March 10, 2015

NE Community News

Northeast Community News – March 09, 2015
Hello Dear Ones! (a day late!)
What a wonderful day we had in the Lord, Sunday! What a joy to come together to sing God’s praises, to lay our burdens down and intercede for others at the throne of grace in prayer, and hear God’s Word! God is good, yup, all the time! I wrote the following in the pastoral report I gave last night in our board meeting and thought you ought to hear it, too!
As I write this Daylight Savings Time for 2015 has just begun! And it began with a boom (as my dad used to say)! The sun is shining; the weather’s warmer; and the sunsets seem later than the one hour they actually changed! Did I mention the weather is warmer? The snow is beginning to melt and as it does it reveals things long buried. Some of those ‘finds’ are ‘treasures,’ but others are like a long covered (and forgotten) pile of ‘doggie dirt’ I found.
As we continue through Lent, I pray you’ll lift your soul to the Savior and allow Him to melt away and uncover your ‘treasures’ and ‘dirt’ and you’ll respond with joy and repentence! God is working on me, too, and I continue to be blessed to be your pastor! God is good!
God’s message came to us from John 2:13-22 and was titled, “Spring Cleaning.” Spring Cleaning is a time when we move the furniture, wash the windows and scrub the walls. Lent is the season where we ‘spring clean’ the soul. While some prefer a surface cleaning, Jesus seeks a real cleansing that goes to the core of are very soul. 
Many of us will read this text and quickly remember it is the one where Jesus cleaned the Temple in Jerusalem. The Temple had become a tourist trap, a marketplace, and Jesus took decisive action to clean it by turning over tables of moneychangers and driving animals out of the Temple area (vv. 15-16).  With holy and righteous anger Jesus challenged arrogance, insensitivity, and utter irreverence for God, His Mission, and His Temple…. How about you?
You may ask, ‘but pastor I am neither Jewish nor even attend the Temple, let alone sell stuff there… what does this have to do with me? Paul wrote, “Flee immorality. Every other sin that a man commits is outside the body, but the immoral man sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?” (I Cor. 6:19).
The truth is, you do have a temple and it resides in you! The question is, ‘If Jesus were to examine everything in your life, what tables would He turn over? What sinful things would He drive out of you? The truth is, Jesus can do this and wants to! Will you ask the Spirit of Christ to examine you and respond obediently? I pray you will! Blessings, Pastor Dan
NEWS AND EVENTS
LADIES RENDEZVOUS – SAT., MAR. 28 @ 10:30AM
The ladies are planning to get together at the church on Sat., Mar. 28th at 10:30am. All ladies are invited and welcome! Please see Gerry D. or Cherry P. for details! 
MIDDLE EAST GARAGE SALE UPDATES AND DEADLINES!
If you’ve received this newsletter for any length of time, you know we’re collecting stuff to sell to raise money for 4 Nazarene Schools operating in the Middle East. Continue to bring your clean and gently used items to church and place them in the fellowship hall. Bless everyone who has brought something or is planning to bring some things to sell. 
Today, I want to make you aware of a few details. First, we will STOP receiving items on Sun., Apr. 12th. While the sale is May 7-9, we need time to price, pack, and ship items to Wayland where Ron Morse will be selling them for us. Second, we need people to come help price items Apr. 16 between 1:30-4:00pm(after Chinese lunch). Finally, we need people willing to help load and unload a large enclosed trailer being provided by Phil Pakiela on May 4 or 5.  If you can help, please let Gerry D. or Pastor Dan know! Thanks!
ALABASTER OFFERING $431.02 – PRAISE THE LORD! 
Believe it or not we received more Alabaster Offerings this week! This means we have now collected $431.02! WOW! PRAISE THE LORD! Remember, the Alabaster Offering is taken twice a year to purchase land and buildings on the mission field. If you’d like to start collecting for fall, grab a box off the railing and get started! Bless you for giving! 
CRISIS CARE KIT AND SCHOOL PAL PAK BLESSINGS!
What a joy it was to deliver our 12 Crisis Care Kits and 10 School Pal Paks to Team Day last Saturday. Our CCK, combined with the other churches, FILLED a truck that is on its way to meeting needs around the world. Bless you for being the hands and feet of Christ to people you will never meet (until you get to heaven)! Praise God!
NEXT THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH IS MAR. 19th 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! Remember! This is more than just eating lunch together; it is a time when we share each other’s joys and concerns, too! So grab a friend and make your way to Hibachi! Questions? See Tracy or Linda!
NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., MAR. 22nd AT 4PM
Our next missionary gathering is Sun., Mar. 22nd at 4pm. Come enjoy a brief study and learn what our missionaries are doing, how we can join them in prayer, learn how to be a missionary in our own neighborhoods, and enjoy snacks and laughter together. It’s a lot of fun and you might just learn something (in spite of yourself! :) Last month you had a chance to win a Coney Combo at the Grand Coney! What will happen this month? So bring a snack, bring a friend, (even an enemy) and join us! You’ll be glad you did! 
ORDER YOUR EASTER FLOWERS NOW THROUGH MAR. 22
Last Sunday we started taking orders for Easter Flowers with an insert in the program (it will be inserted the next 2 Sundays, too). All orders must include payment and you have the option of ordering them ‘in memory of’ or ‘in honor of’ a person or persons of your choice (which will be listed in the weekly program as an insert). Easter Lilies will cost $7.50 and Tulips and Mini-Daffodils $7.00. If you have any questions, see Gerry D.
EASTER EGG HUNT FOR KIDS – APR. 05 (after our Easter Service)
For several years now we have held an Easter egg hunt for our kids immediately following our Easter Morning Worship Service. All ages are invited to participate, but we usually give the little ones a head start! This is a great Sunday to invite friends and family! Let Janie know if you’d be willing to help stuff eggs and prepare for the hunt!
CONGRATS TO THE MISSIONARY GATHERING WINNERS!
Two weeks ago we had our Feb. Missionary Gathering and challenged everyone to figure out where a list of 24 missionaries were serving. If they could figure it out, they would ‘win’ a ‘Coney Special’ from Pastor Dan. I’m delighted to tell you Fran S., Jean C., Sherry J., Dean C., and Janie all answered the challenge and will soon be headed to the Grand Coney! Congratulations all of you! Your hard work paid off! 
PREACHING AND WORSHIP AMBASSADORS ARE COMING APR. 12!
For five years now, Olivet Nazarene University has offered the ‘Preaching Ambassador Program.’ The preaching ambassador program gives students preparing for ministry an opportunity to preach at a local church while pursuing their academic degree, but also gives us an opportunity to see and hear “flesh and blood” examples of those we have supported at ONU. Last year, ONU added ‘worship leaders’ to this wonderful program! On Apr. 12 we welcome Pastor Esther Decker to preach the Word and Rosie Vavario to come lead our worship music! It will be a wonderful service! Please invite your friends! 
5th ANNUAL KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE – MAY 03-31
Can you believe we have been collecting diapers for 5 years! How exciting! Well, we are once again holding a diaper drive for North End Community Mission (NECM) in Grand Rapids. We have found diapers are an incredible need because they aren’t provided by most assistance programs and are a huge expense for some of the ‘least of these.’ This year we would like to collect 1,200 diapers. 
THE SEWER IS COMING!
Now that the cold, cold weather is behind us, it won’t be long before McDonald plumbing arrives to tear up the parsonage yard and replace the cracked, offset, root filled sewer line to the parsonage!’ So, if you see Pastor Dan dancing on a pile of dirt in the yard of the parsonage this week, he’s simply ‘Praising God!’ Thank you Phyllis for investing in the future of our church! We praise God for your faithfulness! Amen!
I LOVE MY CAMP WEEKENDS – APR. 9-11 and APR. 30-MAY 02
Do you love Indian Lake Nazarene Camp? Would you like to help get the camp ready for another busy and life-changing summer? If you would, Emily Compton at ILNC is willing to provide breakfast and lodging for free! Just call her at (269) 649-2281 or email her at ecompton@nazcamp.org to register! Projects include scrapping and painting, washing siding, raking and picking up sticks, spreading topsoil, grass seed, and stacking wood!
PHYLLIS PLATH MOVED LAST WEEK – DORENE COE TURNS 92 THIS WEEK!
Want to encourage and love someone who is no longer able to come be a part of us each week? Phyllis Plath just moved and it would be nice if you would stop by or send a card. Dorene Coe turns 92 this Sat. (3/14) and would love to receive a birthday card!
> Phyllis Plath – Emerald Meadows - 6117 Charlevoix Woods Ct SE – GR – 49546
> Dorene Coe – Christian Home – 1000 Edison Ave NW # 122 – GR – 49504
DO YOU WANT TO JOIN OR START A SPRING WALKING CLUB?
A couple of years ago several of us walked for 10 weeks together! Since Spring is just around the corner, I’d like to know if anyone would like to walk this year on Tue. nights starting Mar. 24 from 6:30-7:30pm? If you’re interested, let Pastor Dan know! 
SPEAKING OF FITNESS….
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 nobodies going to get left behind or going to suffer! But, I can’t promise we won’t stop for ice cream and laugh a lot! These would probably start mid-May and continue off and on through the summer. Let Pastor Dan know if you’re interested. This would be a great event to invite a friend! 
SUMMER CAMP IS COMING SOON! TIME TO REGISTER!
Indian Lake Nazarene Camp has a wonderful summer camp for students of all ages. At camp kids learn to feel good about who they are, gain self-confidence and self-esteem, learn leadership skills, make friends, and learn about God’s love for them! You can learn more by going to this link: http://www.nazcamp.org/camps
Discovery Camp       Completed K – 2nd grade Jun. 29 – July 1
Adventure Camp      Completed 2nd – 4th grade        Jul. 06-10
Voyager Camp Completed 4th – 6th grade         Jul. 20-24
Mid. School Camp    Completed 6th – 8th grade         Jun. 15-19
High School Camp   Completed 9th – 12th grade       Jun. 22-26
Note: All camps are $ 270 (except for Discovery Camp which is $ 120)
IS SOMEONE MISSING? WHY NOT SEND THEM A POSTCARD!
Is there someone missing? Someone you used to look forward to seeing each week but they haven’t been here in awhile? Or, maybe there’s someone you would like to invite to church or a potluck or Sunday school, but you’re not sure how to go about it. Well, one possibility is to send them a postcard! If you would like to send one or several, you will find them on the table in the back of the sanctuary! Bless you for caring!
OUR NEXT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY POTLUCK IS APRIL 12
Just a reminder! Our next Northeast Community Potluck is April 12th. 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
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER – MAY 07
The first Thursday of the May is always the National Day of Prayer in America. Look for an insert in the bulletin in late April to guide your prayers. If you’d like to come to the church to pray, the sanctuary will be open between 10:00am – Noon and you will have an opportunity to pray for America at our altar.
WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY (AND ICE CREAM) AT 6:30PM
What would it take to do something good for you? We all know coming together mid week not only lets our souls drink deeply in the Word, have an opportunity to share our burdens and pray and get ice cream, too, so what will it take for you to come? If you have ideas for taking part in discipleship, we need to hear them! You’re important to us!
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)
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! 
UPCOMING EVENTS
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 (Children’s Easter Egg Hunt)
Apr. 12     ONU Preaching/Worship Ambassadors and NEC Potluck after the service 
Apr. 12     Deadline to bring ‘garage sale stuff’ to church
May 07     National Day of Prayer
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