Northeast Community News – May 25, 2015

Hello Dear Ones!

We had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! We had a great time of prayer before the service, a great Sunday school hour, and a wonderful time of worship, including a time to remember those who’ve gone before us! Memorial Day reminds us freedom isn’t free and we need to give thanks for those who died to keep us free! God bless the USA! Amen!

This week Janie and I were blessed to have two of our grandchildren spend Saturday night and go to church with us. When Jenna, our almost 3-yr-old granddaughter, discovered we were going to church she responded with a huge-eyed, arms raised, mouth wide-open high-pitched squeal! She was just so excited to get to go to church! Her response made me try to remember the last time I was that excited to encounter God! How about you? It sure made me reconsider Matt. 18:3 – “And [Jesus]: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” How might you need to change?

God’s message this week came Acts 2:1-21 and was titled, “Spirit Powered Living.” Acts presents us the dynamic story of the gospel’s spread to the ends of the earth through the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit took fear filled disciples locked in an upper room and transformed them into a movement we are invited to join today!

In Acts c. 1:4-5 Jesus instructs believers to wait for the coming Spirit. In c. 1:8 Jesus gives them a commission to spread the good news to the end of the earth and in 1:12-14 we find them doing as Jesus told them in the upper room fervently praying for the promised Spirit. Finally, in c. 2:1-4 the Holy Spirit came in power, filled the house, and rested on them with tongues of fire and enabled them to speak in foreign tongues to fulfill Jesus’ commission!

As incredible as it is to think believers could speak in foreign languages, the truly awesome part was the transformation that took place in individuals and the Church. It was a personal experience with a purpose! God, through the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit had empowered these believers to share the mission of God with a lost and hurting world and thus fulfill the great commission. 

Do you want to reach your world for Christ? Begin by fervently praying and seeking the fullness of His Spirit. Then allow Him to cleanse you, fill you completely, and transform you into a person He can use to share the good news with the lost and hurting around you! The Church is at it’s best when it looks beyond the limits of its sanctuary and moves out into a world hungry for the good news of Jesus Christ! May it be so in you! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

CHURCH ELECTIONS – THIS SUNDAY (MAY 31)

A new year is about to begin (Jun. 01) so we need to elect a church board and delegates to NMI, NYI, and SDMI Conventions and District Assembly. Members in good standing need to vote before or after Sun. school 5/31. See Larry B. for your ballot! 

WED. NIGHT IS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Join us at 6:30pm for a time of singing, prayer, and study for the whole family. Willing to help lead? We need help with children and teens. Contact Pastor Dan or Gerry D. if you can help! Praise God Shannon M. and Jeffrey R. started attending Wed! Don’t forget, we always end our night with ice cream! Come be a part of our midweek renewal!

SUMMER FESTIVAL IS COMING JUN. 28 – 12:30-3:30PM – WE NEED HELP!

The Stewards would like to plan a Summer Celebration this year to be a blessing to our community, but they need your help to make it happen! Ron Morse has already agreed to generously donate his tent again this year, but we need help with food, organizing a game or two, and helping set up and clean up! 

You can find more information and sign-up sheets on the wall outside the sanctuary or please ask Cherry P. or Steve H. if you have any other questions! Let’s all do our part to help host a great Summer Celebration! Trust me! It will be fun for everyone involved! 

LADIES RENDEZVOUS – THIS SATURDAY! MAY 30^th @ 10:30AM

The ladies are planning to get together at the church on Sat., May 30^th at 10:30am. All ladies are invited and welcome! Please see Gerry D. or Cherry P. for details! 

WE NEED WORKERS!

Can you help in the nursery? Help teach a Sunday school class? Sing on the Praise Team, help run the sound booth, call on shut-ins, move the palms, or help mow the grass? It is a lot of work to keep up a church and we need everyone to help! Let Gerry D. or Pastor know if you can help! Remember: many hands make light work!  

5th ANNUAL KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE – MAY 03-31

With one week to go, we ‘crushed our goal’ of 1,200 last week by receiving 640 diapers bringing us to a new total of 1,496! PGFWABF! (Remember? This is ‘text language’ for “Praise God from whom all blessings flow!”) Bless all of you who have given! All of our diapers will go to the North End Community Ministry (NECM) which operates a ‘crisis pantry’ for the most fragile ‘least of these.’ God is good!

Our goal = 1,200 and we have collected 1,496!

THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH, JUN. 18(TOMRROW AT HIBACHI GRILL) 

Our next Third Thursday Chinese Lunch is tomorrow at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target). Remember! It’s more than food! It’s a time to share our joys, concerns and laugh! So grab a friend and come at 11:30! Questions? See Tracy or Linda!

EAT SOUP AND GATHER BOX TOPS FOR NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!

Did you know Campbell Soup labels and General Mills box tops are worth cash? While it seems small, when we work together, it really adds up! This program has provided PA equipment, computers, and even a 15-passenger van for Nazarene Sun Valley Indian School in AZ. Start collecting them and give them to Fran S. and Sherry J. Questions? See Fran or Sherry or go to this link: http://www.indianschool.org/cambells-labels.html

SUMMER CAMP IS HERE! 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 themselves, gain self-confidence, 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 – 2^nd grade Jun. 29 – July 1

Adventure Camp      Completed 2^nd – 4^th grade   Jul. 06-10

Voyager Camp Completed 4^th – 6^th grade         Jul. 20-24

Mid. School Camp    Completed 6^th – 8^th grade    Jun. 15-19

High School Camp   Completed 9^th – 12^th grade  Jun. 22-26         

Note: All camps are $ 270 (except for Discovery Camp which is $ 120)

CAMP MEETING (SUMMER REVIVAL) IS COMING TO INDIAN LAKE IN JULY!

The Church of the Nazarene is just over 100 years old and one of her oldest traditions is coming together each year for a time of spiritual renewal called ‘Camp Meeting.’ Camp Meeting was original held at Indian Lake Nazarene Camp in Vicksburg under a large tent for several weeks at a time. Then, our three Michigan districts were one and a large crowd gathered to hear evangelists preach 3 services a day plus a time of discipleship. 

While Camp Meeting is only a week now and there are just 2 services a day and a time of discipleship, it is still a time for spiritual renewal for 1,000+ people. Come for just one service or the whole week and you will be blessed! 

Camp Meeting begins with District Assembly Sun., Jul. 12^th and ends Sun., July 19^th. Pastor Dan spends the week at ‘camp’ in a small cabin and would love to have you stop by! Need more information? See Pastor Dan or Janie!  

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

May 03-31        5^th Annual Diaper Drive

May 30     Ladies Rendezvous at 10:30am

May 31     Church Elections

Jun. 07      Annual Church Meeting

Jun. 18      Chinese Lunch at 11:30am

Jun. 28      Missionary Gathering at 4:00pm

Jul. 12-19 Camp Meeting / Dist. Assm. at I.L.N.C.

NE Community News - May 18, 2015

Northeast Community News – May 18, 2015

Let the revolution begin! Hello Dear Ones! I heard from a few of you that you had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! Praise the Lord! Rev. Brent and Emily Bittenbender and their musical family were a huge blessing! If you’re wondering, the giving report indicates you gave $295 in a love offering to them! God is good! While you were worshipping here in Grand Rapids, MI, Janie and I were waking and preparing to worship in Kona, HI. 

It is always such a wonderful surprise and blessing to travel and visit our sister churches. While the Sunday morning service at Kona Coast Church of the Nazarene was the same as our church in many ways, it was very different in others. While we share the joy of living victoriously and everyone we met were warm and friendly, our music, open-air sanctuary, and geckos crawling on the ceiling were very different! 

Regardless, we encountered God and He was praised! Pastor Ryan Fasani preached from Mark 9:30-37 and the title of God’s message was “Servant of All.” His preaching style was very different from mine! First, he asked a child to read the narrator portion and he read the words of Jesus dramatically, twice. It was moving to watch him pick up a child and say, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me” (Mark 9:37). 

Pastor Ryan also differed by asking us and expecting us to answer: 1) what we liked or welcomed in this passage, 2) what we disliked or found difficult, and 3) what we will or should teach others that we have learned. Perhaps, if you have time you will do the same! 

At the core of the teaching was this idea of ‘who is the greatest’ in the Kingdom of God versus the world in which we live. While being ‘greatest’ in our society is about power, prestige and influence, Jesus declares ‘great’ in the Kingdom is based on servanthood. 

We read in vv. 33-35: “They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all” (Mark 9:33-35).

The way of the world creates unholy jockeying for position resulting in shame, separation, and silence. Humility, service, and servanthood on the other hand results in love, joy, and unity. May our lives be modeled after the One who was Servant to All! Whether we serve in Detroit, Kona, or Grand Rapids, may we all serve like Jesus! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY RETURNS THIS WEEK!

Pastor Dan is back and so is our midweek service! Come join us for a time of singing, prayer, and Bible study! We gather in the sanctuary at 6:30pm! Hope to see you there!

THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH, MAY 21 (TOMRROW AT HIBACHI GRILL) 

Our next Third Thursday Chinese Lunch is tomorrow at the Hibachi Grill on Alpine (behind Target). Remember! It’s more than food! It’s a time to share our joys, concerns and laugh! So grab a friend and come at 11:30! Questions? See Tracy or Linda!

MIDDLE EAST GARAGE SALE BLESSINGS! UPDATE!

Last week we reported we had collected $727.20 and I was wrong! The actual total was a whopping $738 to help children in our Nazarene Schools in the war-torn Middle East!

Judy Owens, our District Nazarene Missions International President wrote:

WOW DAN! That is so exciting!  I want to hear the whole story.  Thank you so much for believing BIG and challenging your people to raise money for this project.

Praise the Lord! Judy

Thank you to everyone who made this event a HUGE success! From donors, to haulers, to pricers, to sellers, to Ron Morse who let us set up in his yard, (not to mention gave us any undesignated sales) and even folks who made an additional donation at the sale, it took lots of people, lots of time to make this happen, but it was so worth it! Praise God!

5th ANNUAL KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE – MAY 03-31

In case you didn’t know, we’re collecting diapers for North End Community Ministry because diapers aren’t provided by assistance programs and they are a huge expense for some of the most fragile ‘least of these.’ Bless everyone who has given! With two weeks left we need to collect another 344! We can do this! 

Our goal is 1,200 and we have collected 856!

CONGRATULATIONS MISSIONARY BOOK READERS!

Well I was prepared to write, “we had a wonderful time heading out to the old ballpark to cheer on the West Michigan White Caps last Monday, but the weather was rainy and we had to postpone! Keep your eyes open for the new date! 

Cherry P. will be taking the children winners (Savannah, Jeffrey, and Brady) to Craig’s Cruisers on Wed. May 27. Janie still has books available and the new ones come in July!

EAT SOUP AND GATHER BOX TOPS FOR NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!

Did you know Campbell Soup labels and General Mills box tops are worth cash? While it seems small, when we work together, it really adds up! This program has provided PA equipment, computers, and even a 15-passenger van for Nazarene Sun Valley Indian School in AZ. Start collecting them and give them to Fran S. and Sherry J. Questions? See Fran or Sherry or go to this link: http://www.indianschool.org/cambells-labels.html

LADIES RENDEZVOUS – SAT., MAY 30^th @ 10:30AM

The ladies are planning to get together at the church on Sat., May 30^th at 10:30am. All ladies are invited and welcome! Please see Gerry D. or Cherry P. for details! 

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 themselves, gain self-confidence, 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 – 2^nd grade Jun. 29 – July 1

Adventure Camp      Completed 2^nd – 4^th grade        Jul. 06-10

Voyager Camp Completed 4^th – 6^th grade         Jul. 20-24

Mid. School Camp    Completed 6^th – 8^th grade         Jun. 15-19

High School Camp   Completed 9^th – 12^th grade       Jun. 22-26

Note: All camps are $ 270 (except for Discovery Camp which is $ 120)

CAMP MEETING (SUMMER REVIVAL) IS COMING TO INDIAN LAKE IN JULY!

The Church of the Nazarene is just over 100 years old and one of her oldest traditions is coming together each year for a time of spiritual renewal called ‘Camp Meeting.’ Camp Meeting was original held at Indian Lake Nazarene Camp in Vicksburg under a large tent for several weeks at a time. Then, our three Michigan districts were one and a large crowd gathered to hear evangelists preach 3 services a day plus a time of discipleship. 

While Camp Meeting is only a week now and there are just 2 services a day and a time of discipleship, it is still a time for spiritual renewal for 1,000+ people. Come for just one service or the whole week and you will be blessed! 

Camp Meeting begins with District Assembly Sun., Jul. 12^thand ends Sun., July 19^th. Pastor Dan spends the week at ‘camp’ in a small cabin and would love to have you stop by! Need more information? See Pastor Dan or Janie!  

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!

HELP NEEDED! PEOPLE TO MOW!

We need help mowing our lawn this year. See Pastor Dan or Bob Hill if you’d be willing to help a week or two! We need you! We really do! 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

May 03-31        5^th Annual Diaper Drive

May 21     Chinese Lunch at 11:30am

May 30     Ladies Rendezvous at 10:30am

May 31     Church Elections

Jun. 07      Annual Church Meeting

Jul. 12-19 Camp Meeting / Dist. Assm. at I.L.N.C.

Northeast Community News – May 11, 2015

Hello Dear Ones! We had another wonderful day in the Lord! It was Mother’s Day this last week and we celebrated our mothers with small potted flowers from the church! How did you remember and celebrate your mother? Whether she’s living or gone or you never knew her, you can still give thanks for her effort in bringing you into this world! Remember, it is never too late to say, thank you mom! Many of us first learned unconditional love in the lap of our mothers and made trusting a loving heavenly Father and Savior seem so natural. 

God’s message this week came from 1 John 3:16-24 and was titled, “Love in Action.” Are your hands connected to your heart? Are your feet connected to your faith? Have you ever been the answer to someone’s searching prayer? The Apostle John reminds us Christians are to demonstrate love like Jesus demonstrated love. How is that you ask? What is love?

John records in v. 16: “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers” (1 John 3:16). 

In the worldly culture we live in, love is described as temporary and based on feelings, sweaty palms, and googley eyes. But love like Jesus is more about long-term sacrifice of self and commitment. Jesus, the Scripture says, laid down His life and we are to do likewise. 

Want to know if someone really loves you the way Jesus loves you? Watch what they do more than what they say. Charming words are fleeting and require little sacrifice. Want to know if a church loves the way Jesus loves? Watch what they do more than what they say! 

I can still remember my mother sharing hurt after a person with great biblical knowledge was hurtful again. She said, “I know she knows a lot of Bible verses; I just wished she could learn to live out one of them.” Ouch or Amen? Are you living out God’s love or just talking about it? Loving the way Jesus loves requires more than words; it requires loving action!

John then declares in v. 17: “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? (1 John 3:17).

It’s easy to love someone the way the world loves. Let the government help them or give them empty words of encouragement without any personal sacrifice. However, unless we love others to the point of sacrifice, like Jesus did, the love of God is no longer in us! Finally, John summarizes, “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18). This week let’s love the way Jesus loves! May our hands and feet be attached to our hearts and faith! To God be the Glory! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

MIDDLE EAST GARAGE SALE BLESSINGS!

The short answer is WE DID IT! PRAISE THE LORD! After all of the work advertising, collecting, pricing, loading, hauling, setting up and selling our stuff, we raised $727.20 to help children in 4 Nazarene Schools in the war-torn Middle East (our goal was $250). Thank you to everyone who made this event a HUGE success! From donors, to haulers, to pricers, to sellers, to Ron Morse who let us set up in his yard, (not to mention gave us any undesignated sales) and even folks who made an additional donation at the sale, it took lots of people, lots of time to make this happen, but it was so worth it! Praise God!

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER BLESSINGS!

Last Thu. was the annual National Day of Prayer. Thank you for everyone who prayed for America! God heard your prayers! But let’s make sure we keep praying! America needs our prayers every day! So keep those prayers coming! Amen!

REVOLUTION (313) IS COMING THIS SUNDAY!

Pastor Dan and Janie are on vacation this week and while they are gone Pastor Brent and Emily Bittenbender are coming to share what God can do with a couple of folks sold out to Jesus! Specifically, they feel called to the lost people of Detroit, Michigan! Listen to his heart: 

I’m Brent Bittenbender, pastor of The Church of the Nazarene’s “new start” in Detroit Michigan.  As we begin our mission here focusing on “The Other Six Days” of the week in our community, we are spending the majority of our Sundays in what we call “Two Way Ministry.” 

“Two Way Ministry” is our effort to minister to church bodies who could use some help filling the worship platform or pulpit while staff or volunteers are away or just plain tuckered out.  We all need a refreshing break from time to time.  We minister to churches by filling some of those roles as guests, and churches minister back to us by potentially partnering with us through Prayer, Presence (hands on missions in Detroit), or Provision (love offering or honorarium.)…

Though we do share stories from our work in Detroit, we are NOT on a mission to promote what WE are doing and how people should help US. We are on a mission to mention how God is using us in order to encourage others to continue passionately in The Revolution that God has set each of us on.

May the Revolution Continue!  Brent Bittenbender

Trust me! You’re in for a treat! Grab a friend! Grab a stranger! Grab an enemy and bring them to church to hear Revolution (313). You won’t be disappointed! Two quick things: First, for those of you who may not know, 313 is the area code for Detroit. Second, we will be taking a love offering for the Bittenbenders after the service (which means you will be asked to consider giving them a small or large cash donation). If you would like to know more about their ministry, go to this link: http://www.revolution313.com/

5th ANNUAL KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE – MAY 03-31

While we had announced the diaper drive was starting May 03^rd, I must confess I wasn’t sure anyone would bring diapers the first week. I didn’t hear any ‘buzz’ about this drive and so imagine my shock when I discovered you gave 524 diapers this week! Wow! In case you didn’t know, we’re collecting diapers for North End Community because they aren’t provided by most assistance programs and they are a huge expense for some of the ‘least of these.’ Our goal is 1,200 and we have already collected 580! Praise God! 

NO WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY THIS WEEK!

With Pastor Dan on vacation, we will NOT HAVE our Wed. night Bible Study this week! The Bible study will resume the following week (May 20^th). In the meantime, would you please pray God will raise up a leader for Wed. night when Pastor Dan is gone? Thanks! 

CONGRATULATIONS MISSIONARY BOOK READERS!

We had a wonderful time heading out to the old ballpark to cheer on the West Michigan White Caps! The weather was perfect and we had a lot of fun! The children have had a change of plans! Since the kids are getting a little older, Cherry P. is taking our winners (Savannah, Jeffrey, and Brady) to Craig’s Cruisers on Wed. May 27, instead! Bless all of you who read the Missionary Books! Janie still has books available! New ones in July!

EAT SOUP AND GATHER BOX TOPS FOR NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!

Did you know Campbell Soup labels and General Mills box tops are worth cash? While it seems small, when we work together, it really adds up! This program has provided PA equipment, computers, and even a 15-passenger van for Nazarene Sun Valley Indian School in AZ. Start collecting them and give them to Fran S. and Sherry J. Questions? See Fran or Sherry or go to this link: http://www.indianschool.org/cambells-labels.html

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 themselves, gain self-confidence, 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 – 2^nd grade Jun. 29 – July 1

Adventure Camp      Completed 2^nd – 4^th grade        Jul. 06-10

Voyager Camp Completed 4^th – 6^th grade         Jul. 20-24

Mid. School Camp    Completed 6^th – 8^th grade         Jun. 15-19

High School Camp   Completed 9^th – 12^th grade       Jun. 22-26         

Note: All camps are $ 270 (except for Discovery Camp which is $ 120)

THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH, MAY 21, (AT HIBACHI GRILL) 

Our next Third Thursday Chinese Lunch is May 21 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!

LADIES RENDEZVOUS – SAT., MAY 30^th @ 10:30AM

The ladies are planning to get together at the church on Sat., May 30^th at 10:30am. All ladies are invited and welcome! Please see Gerry D. or Cherry P. for details! 

CAMP MEETING (SUMMER REVIVAL) IS COMING TO INDIAN LAKE IN JULY!

The Church of the Nazarene is just over 100 years old and one of her oldest traditions is coming together each year for a time of spiritual renewal called ‘Camp Meeting.’ Camp Meeting was original held at Indian Lake Nazarene Camp in Vicksburg under a large tent for several weeks at a time. Then, our three Michigan districts were one and a large crowd gathered to hear evangelists preach 3 services a day plus a time of discipleship. 

While Camp Meeting is only a week now and there are just 2 services a day and a time of discipleship, it is still a time for spiritual renewal for 1,000+ people. Come for just one service or the whole week and you will be blessed! 

Camp Meeting begins with District Assembly Sun., Jul. 12^th and ends Sun., July 19^th. Pastor Dan spends the week at ‘camp’ in a small cabin and would love to have you stop by! Need more information? See Pastor Dan or Janie!  

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!

HELP NEEDED! PEOPLE TO MOW!

It’s official! Bob Hill retired from mowing! We were blessed he did the maintenance on the mowers before his hand surgery, but now we need others to mow a week or two this year. Thank you Pastor Dan for mowing last week! Who’s next? See Pastor Dan or Bob Hill if you’d be willing to help! We need you! We really do! 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

May 03-31        5^th Annual Diaper Drive

May 11     White Caps Baseball Game 6:35pm

May 12-18        Pastor Dan and Janie on vacation

May 17     Revolution (313) Rev. Brent Bittenbender and family

May 21     Chinese Lunch at 11:30am

May 30     Ladies Rendezvous at 10:30am

May 31     Church Elections

Jun. 07      Annual Church Meeting

Jul. 12-19 Camp Meeting / Dist. Assm. at I.L.N.C.

NE Community News

Northeast Community News – May 04, 2015

Hello Dear Ones! We had another wonderful day in the Lord, Sunday! Have you noticed Sunday school is growing? There is a reason! If you aren’t a regular part of a small group of disciples, you really ought to consider this opportunity! Wed. night is also a wonderful time to share our burdens, pray, and feast on the Word. Ready to grow your faith? Do the next right thing by joining with others who are on a journey, too! You’ll be glad you did! Really!

God’s message this week came from Luke 24:36-49 and was titled, ‘Resurrection Changes Everything.’ All of us are afraid of something! I can remember a construction worker, who had been up on a 30’ ladder ‘no hands’ cutting siding and seemingly fearless of heights tell me he was terrified of speaking in the front of the church! Many, are fearful of sharing their faith, witnessing to others, and leading others to Jesus. What are you afraid of? 

In Luke 24, the 11 disciples begin to hear reports that Jesus has been resurrected. The first report came from the women at the tomb and then from men on the Road to Emmaus. Even with these reports, they remained behind locked doors, full of fear and wondering what to do next. Into that confusing time Jesus comes and declares: …“Peace be with you” v. 36b).  It is important to notice Jesus comes to them! And what does he bring? Peace! 

However, instead of reacting with joy, they are startled, frightened, troubled, doubting, and thinking they had seen a ghost (vv. 37-38). Scholars tell us they had begun to doubt what Jesus had told them including the resurrection. We discover in vv. 39-45 Jesus provided them the evidence they needed to believe! Ever been filled with doubt and wanted to run? Jesus knows all about your fear, doubts, and disbelief and meets you at your point of need! 

And from these fearful, doubting, and struggling ordinary people Jesus commissioned them to share the good news to all nations! All nations? How were these ordinary folks going to reach the world for Jesus when they were too terrified to leave from behind a locked door? 

The answer is in v. 49: “I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high” (v. 49). What would lead a group of ordinary, terrified, paralyzed disciples into the streets speaking foreign languages to a group of people they had never met? The Holy Spirit! Jesus declared ‘Pentecost is coming!’

Just for those who don’t know, Pentecost did come 50 days after Jesus ascended 2,000 or so years ago and the same power of the Holy Spirit is available to us today, too! Let’s leave our locked rooms and share Jesus even when we’re scared! He’s with us! Blessings, Pastor Dan

NEWS AND EVENTS

MIDDLE EAST GARAGE SALE LOADING! 

It is finally here! You have searched through your stuff and given sacrificially! You stuff has been priced to sell (well at least we hope)! And now, it is time to load it up into to Phil P’s trailer, take it to Wayland to the actual sale, and set it up! If you can load or unload Tuesday (tomorrow), please call, text, or email Pastor Dan! Thanks! 

SPRING MISSIONS IGNITE SERVICE BLESSINGS!

If you didn’t go to the service last night you really missed out a lot! We sang, we prayed, and then we heard from Andy Bennett, a Missionary Doctor to Papua, New Guinea, and it was incredible to hear what God is doing! From kids been healed of club foot, to folks being saved at the clinic, to ‘baby of Diana’ who exceeded everyone’s expectations, and more, we heard how our W.E.F. monies are being used and were incredibly blest! 

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER IS THURSDAY (THIS WEEK) MAY 07

The first Thursday of the May is always the National Day of Prayer in America. There was an insert in your bulletin this week (May 03) to guide you. If you would like to pray at church, the sanctuary will be open between 10:00am – Noon!

REVOLUTION (313) IS COMING SUNDAY, MAY 17!

Prepare to be challenged! Pastor Brent and Emily Bittenbender bear witness to what God can do with a couple of folks sold out to Jesus! Specifically, Brent and Emily feel called to the lost people of Detroit, Michigan! On May 17, Brent, Emily, and their 3 kids are coming to lead a VERY different worship service! Brent is a good friend of Pastor Dan’s and Pastor Dan almost wishes he wasn’t on vacation so he could be here! Brent has a deep passion for the hurting, broken, and lost anywhere, but especially Detroit. 

Listen to his heart: 

I’m Brent Bittenbender, pastor of The Church of the Nazarene’s “new start” in Detroit Michigan.  As we begin our mission here focusing on “The Other Six Days” of the week in our community, we are spending the majority of our Sundays in what we call “Two Way Ministry.” 

“Two Way Ministry” is our effort to minister to church bodies who could use some help filling the worship platform or pulpit while staff or volunteers are away or just plain tuckered out.  We all need a refreshing break from time to time.  We minister to churches by filling some of those roles as guests, and churches minister back to us by potentially partnering with us through Prayer, Presence (hands on missions in Detroit), or Provision (love offering or honorarium.)

I’ve led worship for about 18 years and my family brings the “bare bones” of a great worship band…I’m also a speaking pastor IN LOVE with Nazarene theology and passionate about connecting people to The Revolution that God has in store for them through the power of His Spirit. (…continues next page…)

Though we do share stories from our work in Detroit, we are NOT on a mission to promote what WE are doing and how people should help US. We are on a mission to mention how God is using us in order to encourage others to continue passionately in The Revolution that God has set each of us on.

May the Revolution Continue!  

Brent Bittenbender

Trust me! You’re in for a treat! Grab a friend! Grab a stranger! Grab an enemy and bring them to church to hear Revolution (313). You won’t be disappointed! Two quick things: First, for those of you who may not know, 313 is the area code for Detroit. Second, we will be taking a love offering for the Bittenbenders after the service (which means you will be asked to consider giving them a small or large cash donation). If you would like to know more about their ministry, go to this link: http://www.revolution313.com/

5th ANNUAL KEEP ‘EM COVERED DIAPER DRIVE – MAY 03-31

While we had announced the diaper drive was starting May 03^rd, I must confess I wasn’t sure anyone would bring diapers the first week. I didn’t hear any ‘buzz’ about this drive and so imagine my shock when I discovered you gave 524 diapers this week! Wow! In case you didn’t know, we’re collecting diapers for North End Community because they aren’t provided by most assistance programs and they are a huge expense for some of the ‘least of these.’ Our goal is 1,200 and we have already collected 524! Praise God! 

WED. NIGHT BIBLE STUDY RETURNS THIS WEEK!

With Pastor Dan back from vacation, we return to our regular Wed. night Bible Study this week which includes a time of singing lead by Sherry J., prayer, Bible study, and ice cream, laughter, and good conversation! Hungry for community? Trying to figure out what Christian life is and how to live it out? Join us as we work on it together! 

CONGRATULATIONS MISSIONARY BOOK READERS!

We challenged everyone to read all the missionary books before the end of March and here are our winners! Congratulations to all of you!

Adults – Jean C., Gerry D., Dan and Jane H., Sherry J., Dick and Emily M., Gary P., Fran S., and Deb X. who will be going to a Mon., May 11^th Whitecaps game! Free! (Want to go to the game but didn’t read the books? Bring $6.50 each for a box seat and join us!)

Children winners were Savannah, Jeffrey, and Brady! They will be going to Chuckie Cheese just as soon as we can coordinate all three of their families!

EAT SOUP AND GATHER BOX TOPS FOR NAZARENE INDIAN MISSIONS!

Did you know Campbell Soup labels and General Mills box tops are worth cash? While it seems small, when we work together, it really adds up! This program has provided PA equipment, computers, and even a 15-passenger van for Nazarene Sun Valley Indian School in AZ. Start collecting them and give them to Fran S. and Sherry J. Questions? See Fran or Sherry or go to this link: http://www.indianschool.org/cambells-labels.html

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 themselves, gain self-confidence, 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 – 2^nd grade Jun. 29 – July 1

Adventure Camp      Completed 2^nd – 4^th grade        Jul. 06-10

Voyager Camp Completed 4^th – 6^th grade         Jul. 20-24

Mid. School Camp    Completed 6^th – 8^th grade         Jun. 15-19

High School Camp   Completed 9^th – 12^th grade       Jun. 22-26

Note: All camps are $ 270 (except for Discovery Camp which is $ 120)

NEXT THIRD THURSDAY CHINESE LUNCH, MAY 21, (AT HIBACHI GRILL) 

Our next Third Thursday Chinese Lunch is May 21 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!

LADIES RENDEZVOUS – SAT., MAY 30^th @ 10:30AM

The ladies are planning to get together at the church on Sat., May 30^th at 10:30am. All ladies are invited and welcome! Please see Gerry D. or Cherry P. for details! 

NEXT MISSIONARY GATHERING IS SUN., MAY 31^st AT 4PM!

Our next missionary gathering is Sun., May 31^st at 4pm. Come enjoy a brief study, learn what our missionaries are doing, how to pray for them, and how to be a missionary in your own backyard! We also enjoy snacks and laughter together, so bring a snack, a friend, and an open heart and join us May 31^st! You’ll be glad you did! 

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!

HELP NEEDED! PEOPLE TO MOW!

Ok it’s official! Bob Hill has retired from mowing! We are blessed that he waited to have hand surgery until after he had the equipment ready for work! Would you be willing to mow a week or two this year? Thank you Janie for mowing the lawn last week! Who’s next? We have all of the equipment! See Pastor Dan or Bob Hill if you’d be willing to help! We need you! We really do! Pray about it will you? 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

May 03-31        5^th Annual Diaper Drive

May 07     National Day of Prayer

May 09     Church Board Meeting 12:30pm

May 11     White Caps Baseball Game 6:35pm

May 12-18        Pastor Dan and Janie on vacation

May 17     Revolution (313) Rev. Brent Bittenbender and family

May 21     Chinese Lunch at 11:30am

May 30     Ladies Rendezvous at 10:30am