calvary life December 2011
Important Christmas Events...5 Save the Date - What’s Coming in 2012...12 First Time at Calvary? Welcome...24
Festival of Lights The Bagman and the King Program...2
Festival of Lights 2011
The Bagman and the King By Phil and Lynne Brower
OVERTURE “O Come” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” “Yule Feast at Locksley’s Castle” “Come to Christmas” Scene 1: Introduction of Bagman Scene 2: Main Street “So Much More” Scene 3: Story Sequence-Clothier’s “Sing a Song of Christmas” Scene 4: Greenly House “All I Ever Wanted” Scene 5: Lewis & Grace Anna Scene 6: Mayor’s Announcement “Is He Here Yet?” Scene 7: Bagman at the Inn “Spirit of the Season” Scene 8: Mayor and Sweepers “Street Sweep Beat” “Is He Here Yet?” [reprise] “Come to Christmas” Scene 9: Children and the Bagman “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Scene 10: Coburn and Crane’s Bank Scene 11: Randolph Picks Up Grace Anna Scene 12: Thomas Meets Bagman “Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas” Scene 13: Arrival at the Greeley’s “Is He Here Yet?” [reprise] Scene 14: Dialogue at the Greeley’s table Scene 15: Crane’s House Scene 16: Pageant Sequence “The Glory of Christmas Medley” “I Wonder as I Wander” “Come to Christmas” Scene 17: Crane’s House Scene 18: Christmas Morning at the Greeley’s “Still the Lamb” “The Joy of Christmas – Joy to the World/Hallelujah Chorus” Copyright © 1997 BellMark Music ASCAP All rights reserved
As you leave the performance, please remember to give to the Salvation Army. Ushers will be holding buckets as you exit the Sanctuary. All the money raised will be used by the Salvation Army locally in our community. Thank You and Merry Christmas.
Welcome to Brampton, a quaint little European village preparing itself for the celebration of Christmas. Although our visit takes place more than a century past, you will be amazed at the familiarity of its colorful population. You may run into a member of your family or .… a friend or two; you may even find that you encounter yourself. Most of all, we hope you’ll meet Jesus, the One for Whom all this was written. You see, it was through the birth of Jesus that God’s purpose would be fulfilled. God acted to save His people by sending the Christ child. What the people in little town of Brampton pay homage to at Christmas is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s saving purpose: the birth of Jesus, the messianic Savior.
God’s only Son is born among us in order to save the world. This is the message of Christmas. “Come to the place of angel wings Where wise men bow so low and shepherds sing. Come bring your hopes-—bring your dreams; There’s room for paupers— there’s room for kings. Come to Christmas . . . just follow the star. Come to the place of angel wings And miracle things!” P. and L. Brower
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Welcome On behalf of Calvary Church, let me say how glad I am that you have joined us for an evening of music and drama as we present, “The Bagman and the King.” Through storytelling, music and drama, the cast, crew and musicians have been working for months to make the wondrous, awe-inspiring events of this season come to life.
As Christians, Christmas holds a special meaning for us; it is a time when we celebrate the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ. If you have questions about what it means to be a Christian, I hope you’ll read the note to the right from Aaron Bolduc, our Assistant Director of Evangelism & Discipleship. If you’re looking for a church, I’d like to invite you to try Calvary. It’s a big church I know, but with the host of opportunities available you’d be surprised at how quickly you can find your place. Throughout the pages of this magazine you’ll find details on the many ways you can experience life with the Calvary Church family. We would love to have you join us as we journey together. Wishing you a blessed Christmas season, Jim Samra, Senior Pastor
What is a Christian? There are a lot of different answers to that question. Some think a Christian is a good person who follows the golden rule. Others claim that a Christian is a person who believes in God, prays and attends church. Some might say that a Christian is a person who goes to church and thinks that they are better than everyone else. However, none of these answers are sufficient. Can we even know what really makes someone a Christian? Thankfully the answer is yes and the answer is found in the one place that resolves this confusion— the Bible. The Bible is the authority on all things Christian, and the Bible alone can teach us what it is to be a Christian. The Bible says that a Christian is a bad person. Surprised? Most people are when they hear that for the first time, yet that is what the Bible states. Of course that is not the whole story, but that is the first part. The Bible tells us that: all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). The Bible claims that there is not one person (including Christians) in the world who has not sinned and fallen short. The Bible also tells us that the punishment for sin is death, which means total separation from God. This presents a serious problem for us all; because we all know that we are far from perfect. Thankfully this is where the good news comes —”God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). What does this mean? The Bible tells us the reason that Jesus came and lived a life on this Earth was to die for us. The Bible tells us that Jesus lived a perfect life in which He committed no sin. The Bible also tells us that because of His great love, when Jesus died on the cross He took the punishment for our sin upon Himself. When Jesus rose from the grave He defeated death and made freedom from sin and death available to mankind. The Bible tells us that by believing in Jesus and turning away from our lives of sin we can be forgiven of our wrong doings and receive eternal life, meaning we are never separated from God again.
Romans 10:9-10 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”
So what is a Christian? A Christian is a person who recognizes their short comings. Someone who knows that they are not perfect and understands that on their own they cannot make it. So, they choose a different path. Ultimately a Christian is a person who in faith, believes that the only way to be right with God is to trust and hope in the power and work of Jesus Christ alone. Simply put, a Christian is a sinner saved forever by Jesus. One of the most famous Christians of all time put it this way: “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst” (1 Timothy 1:15). If you have more questions about the idea of being a Christian or want to know more about Calvary Church, we would love to talk with you. Contact me, Aaron Bolduc (abolduc@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5263, to set up a time to get together. God designed us to live this life together; being a Christian isn’t something you can do alone. We gather together, at church on Sundays and throughout the week in community groups, to encourage and support each other. If you are curious about faith and want a safe place to ask questions and learn from others in a similar place, check out Simple Faith (beginning in January on Sunday mornings) on page 13. There are no dumb questions. Wherever you are today, Christ wants to meet you there. I hope you will take a moment this season to answer His call.
Aaron Bolduc Assistant Director, Evangelism & Discipleship abolduc@calvarygr.org 956-9377, ext. 5263
important
Christmas events Our Sunday service times are 8:10am, 9:40am and 11:15am unless otherwise listed.
Sunday, November 27 AM Life{Together} Series - Family Service | First Sunday of Advent PM What About Now? JP Gaylord, Pastoral Resident Sunday, December 4 AM Life{Together} Series | Second Sunday of Advent PM No Evening Service due to Festival of Lights Sunday, December 11 AM Life{Together} Series | Third Sunday of Advent PM No Evening Service due to Festival of Lights Sunday, December 18 AM Life{Together} Series | Fourth Sunday of Advent PM LUMIN8 Christmas Musical: Camel Lot 5:00pm & 10:00pm
Saturday, December 24 Christmas Eve Service No Childcare Provided. Sunday, December 25 Life{Together} Series - Family Christmas Service Childcare available for children birth through 35 months.
9:00am & 10:45am PM No Evening Service
What is advent? Advent is traditionally a time of prepa-
ration for Christmas. Being ready for Christmas should mean that our thoughts are focused not just on letters, cards and presents, but on repentance, humbling and interior “housecleaning.” John the Baptist warned his hearers to prepare a way for the Lord - to make a clear and level pathway. This involves removing any boulders that stand in the way, and filling in the potholes. The boulders are the things we have done that we should not have done; the potholes are the things we have failed to do which we obviously should have done. The more, as individuals, family or congregation, we are focused in this way, the less we will be overwhelmed by the commercialization of Christmas. We wait in the anticipation of the coming of the Lord. Christ has come; Christ has died and is risen; Christ will come again. We invite you this Advent season to wait on God once again, remembering the time of the coming of our Savior so long ago, and perhaps even during this time we might learn to wait for things with a different attitude. May we wait with hope. Adapted from Celtic Daily Prayer from The Northumbria Community
Family advent guide
We invite you to use our Advent family devotional guide to help your family “freeze” some moments during the holidays. Copies are available at the Children’s check-in desks. Guides are free for families registered in the Kingdom Kids Children’s Ministry (one per family). Additional Guides available for a $5 donation.
Sunday, January 1 9:00am & Life{Together} Series - Family Service 10:45am Communion will be served. Childcare available for children birth through 35 months. PM No Evening Service
Christmas Eve There’s nothing quite like the night before Christmas; the anticipation of the birth of the Savior. This year, we invite you to make Calvary’s Christmas Eve service part of your holiday tradition. Lights hang brightly from all corners of the Sanctuary. The Christmas story is read for all to enjoy and we’ll sing carols around the piano throughout the night. It’s a simple service; a warm and spirited prelude to your Christmas celebration. We hope you’ll join us.
December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 5
contents
2 Program
Festival of Lights Order & Synopsis
5 important christmas eventS dates to remember for the holiday season
12 Save the date
looking ahead at events in 2012
13 simple faith
the only dumb question is the one you don’t ask
24 first time here new to calvary? welcome!
8 | 5 Questions with Kevin Troupe
Calvary Life sits down with the Maintenance Supervisor and Special Events Facilitator.
9 | On the Bookshelf
Reading recommendations for the month of December.
10 | From Lonely to Loved
How Robin Adrianse found community and much more through Monday Night Bible Study.
11 | Behind the Scenes
Serving at Calvary connects you to the life of the body; hear how as we sit down with Pam Lammers.
12 | Save the Date
Events coming in 2012 to Calvary Church
13 | Simple Faith
Do you have questions about the Bible? This class is for you!
14 | Special Needs Ministry
Elleen Fitzgerald and team share how God is at work within this amazing ministry.
15 | Rediscovering the Grace of Giving A convicting testimony of how one couple rediscovered the joy found in giving.
16 | One Heart
The latest from Calvary’s Missions and Outreach Department. 6 | December 2011 | calvarygr.org
18-22 | Activity Guide
18 - Children, 5th-8th Grade 19 - 7th/8th Grade, High School, College, Merge 20 - Merge, Foundations, Calvary Community Compassion Ministries, Family Life, Men 21 - Pastoral Care, Prayer Groups, Special Needs, Senior Adults 22 - Senior Adults, Serving Opportunities, Giving Opportunities
23 | December Calendar
Dates to know and hold onto for December.
24 | Welcome to Calvary
New to Calvary? This is a great place to start.
Take a night off!
You are busy with all the preparations for Christmas, so please take a night off and come visit us at WFD. Serving families and friends here at Calvary combines the collective effort of a dedicated staff of volunteers and the cuisine of Chef Rod, Chef Neal, and Chef PJ. WFD features “in house” prepared meals with endless tossed salads and fountain drinks. It is a comfortable place to meet your friends and make new ones. Come and enjoy a diverse fare of savory proteins and delicious sides, Calvary’s home baked petit pan loaves, and satisfying desserts. The cost is low, $5 for the featured meal, or $15.00 for Family Meal which would be two adult and three Hero Meals. If children included in the Family Meal are served the featured meal or the Super Hero Meal the cost is an additional $2 each. We serve from 5:00-6:30pm in the Fellowship Hall.
December 7 Turkey Buster Saturday Night Favorite
Grilled Swiss Steak Made with extra-tender home jaccarded sirloin and served with veloute supreme sauce with caramelized onion and mushrooms Super-Sweet White Corn Nibblets Mashed Potatoes Healthy Hero Meal: Whole Grain Pasta with Meatballs & Vegetable of the Day
Wednsheipsddinnaery Fellow
december 14 Christmas Dinner at Calvary
Cure 81 Baked Ham Served with cranberry and honey sauce Candied Yams Tender, savory and sweet Mashed Potatoes with Smoked Gouda Cheese Green Bean Casserole Healthy Hero Meal: Ground Beef Steaks and Mashed Potatoes
For the Kids
New this year is the Healthy Hero Meal ($3). All Healthy Hero options will include salad bar, roll, low-fat milk, vegetable of the day, or carrot sticks and apple sauce. Bareman ice cream cups will be available for dessert. We also have the traditional Hero Meal, a hot slice of Chef PJ’s homemade pizza squares, or a hot dog and mac-n-cheese for $3. For the “Super Hero” in all of us you can have two squares or two dogs for $5.
good to know Experiencing a Crisis? If you are experiencing a crisis, or perhaps going through a difficult emotional, spiritual, or relationship situation, Stephen Ministry & Lay Counseling can help. Contact Phyllis Dykstra at 784-1858. Calvary’s Clothes Closet & Food Pantry Are Available To You Through the kind donations of many Calvary attendees, the apparel you need is available free of charge. If you would like to peruse Calvary’s Clothes Closet, please contact Lynnell Bok at ext. 3510. The Closet is open by appointment. If you are in need of food, one phone call to Lynnell Bok at ext. 3510 is all it takes to get the help you need. One-time use of the Food Pantry is available with no obligation. However, if you need assistance for a prolonged season, we ask that you take part in the entire benevolence process. This will allow our team a chance to get to know you and ensure that more than just your physical needs are being met. The Food Pantry is open by appointment; please contact Lynnell at ext. 3510.
College Scholarships Available Winter semester applications are now being accepted for single parents and/or their children who wish to pursue their education. The Roger W. Smith Scholarship Fund has helped many in the past with tuition costs and has been a huge blessing to those who have participated. The deadline for applications is Dec. 9. Calvary Church is grateful for the privilege of assisting in this way. To apply for an educational scholarship, contact Lynnell Bok (lbok@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3510. Who You Gonna Call? If you get hurt or are not feeling well while you are at church, who do you call? We hope you will use a “help phone” to call someone on our Emergency Response Team (ERT). Our Facility team members, along with volunteer medical/safety professionals, make up the ERT and are always available whenever the facility is open. They are trained in basic first aid, CPR, AED and can give emergency oxygen if needed. Along with being able to do emergency care, if needed they coordinate with the EMS, first responders and our parking lot team to get medical assistance to the hurting.
If you have emergency response training in the medical or security fields and would like to join our team, contact Ken Meines (kmeines@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5125. Sunday Mornings in Kingdom Kids The Children’s Ministry of Calvary Church provides a loving, safe environment for your children while you are in the service, attending an Adult Sunday Class, or serving. Full programming is available during the 9:40 and 11:15am services for children birth through fourth grade; at the 8:10am hour, we offer childcare and teaching for infants through four-year-olds. Our caregivers and teachers, often parents themselves, go through a screening process, training, and are required to adhere to our safety guidelines that include a secure check-in/check-out, and paging system. Join us as we worship and learn using drama, puppets, and storytelling in large-group, and small-group settings. For more detailed information, pick up our Children’s Ministry Parent Guide available at the check-in desks at Entrances K and M.
December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 7
connections getting to know calvary 1
What is your role at Calvary Church?
5Questions with Kevin Troupe
Festival of Lights Stage Manager Maintenance Supervisor & Special Events Facilitator
I share my time between the day-to-day operations of the Facility and Worship departments. My work then extends to every other ministry at Calvary. My week (or day!) may consist of fixing a faucet, planning a concert or conference, designing a set for the platform, making props or building sets and end with plowing snow in the parking lot or finding my hands under the hood of a tractor.
2
What encourages you most as you minister at Calvary?
What I find the most encouraging about working “behind the scenes” is seeing the church work...not the physical church, but the body, working with many gifts and talents coming together as one. A perfect example of this is the set-up for Festival of Lights. I am writing this as we are in the middle of building the stage and hanging the lights. People of all ages and backgrounds have come together to lend a hand. A lot of work is accomplished, but more important is the relationships that are built working together for the ultimate goal of seeing lives changed through this great outreach tool. I often use the analogy of looking at the two sides of a tapestry; the front that everyone sees is the finished product of a beautiful piece of art... the back is a series of many threads going in all directions, crisscrossing each other in a way that looks chaotic but in reality has been a perfectly orchestrated plan.
3
How have you experienced life{together}?
In my role here at Calvary Church I have the honor to work with many gifted and caring people. We have a large staff, but even larger than the paid staff is the group of volunteers who give of their time and talents. The volunteers I work directly with have become my family. What started for me as a few guys helping with tasks has become a group of caring guys who I have laughed with, cried with, prayed with, gone through illnesses and other struggles with and even have said goodbye to as they finished strong with their mission here and went on to Glory. My father passed away at a very young age...I have many “dads” here at Calvary who have helped mentor, encourage and serve a sounding board as I am raising my own family.
8 | December 2011 | calvarygr.org
4
How has God recently revealed Himself in your community?
Most of the guys that lend a hand in our ministry of taking care of the facility come from trades... carpentry, electric, heating and cooling, mechanics, communications, etc. Others are guys who just love to work with their hands and welcome the break of working in an office setting. Many would say that they are not gifted and would not be comfortable up in front of people preaching or leading a Bible Study. What I see is group of guys who genuinely care for one another. For example, I have seen this happen when one of our volunteers was experiencing some hurdles in his family with a wife who had a serious infection in a leg and himself experiencing a medical condition in his ears with sudden attacks of being dizzy. Without prompting, another one of our volunteers brought in a meal with the strict instruction of remaining anonymous. My only roll in the exchange was making a visit with the family and delivering the meal...which fed them for several days. I love seeing this happen between men, men who may be a little hardened working in the trades and being constantly bombarded with coarse joking, cussing and petty conflicts. It is refreshing seeing these men care for each other and together enjoy the oasis of working in an environment that may be “cleaner” than they are used to.
5
How can the Calvary family pray for you and your ministry this month?
Pray for the many long hours spent on Festival of lights...for the set-up and tear-down crews, the choir, orchestra, cast, parking and technical crew, ticket people and ushers who all have very understanding families, knowing that the ultimate goal is to see and hear of lives and hearts changed throught this production. Also, please pray for the Facilities Staff, who in the wee hours after the lights and the fog have faded clean and repair the building, set up for countless Christmas parties, plow snow and many other tasks in and around the Festival of Lights rehearsals and productions, all while maintaining a spirit of serving.
on the bookshelf
recommended reading for december found in the calvary library The Perfect Gift is a family DVD that tells the story of a spoiled schoolgirl, her overworked executive mother and a disillusioned young minister and how each receives an uplifting message about faith, tradition and the truest meaning of Christmas.
Tom Olsson, Associate Pastor
Like your favorite Christmas ornaments, this collection of Max Lucado’s favorite tales and reflections of the season come in all shapes and sizes. They unfold in a variety of settings from ancient Bethlehem to rural England. In the midst of the bustle and hurry that often distracts us this time of year, these stories free us to explore the ways in which Christ’s coming has forever changed history – and us. Here is Ruel’s big chance to prove he can tend sheep just as well as his big brothers. But, distracted by his brothers’ teasing, he looks away just long enough for his favorite lamb to wander off. Following a frantic search, he locates his missing charge – and finds himself in the midst of the biggest announcement ever made. His shepherding misstep brings a blessing when he finds the baby who will one day become the shepherd of men.
All the books mentioned are available in Calvary's Library. The Library is located across from Fellowship Hall on the lower level. The hours are Sunday, 9:15 - 11:15am; 5:15 - 5:45pm; Wednesday, 9:15 - 9:45am; 6:00 - 7:30pm. The library will be closed on Sunday evenings during the month of December. It will also be closed Wednesdays, December 21 and 28; and Sunday evening January 1.
Mark Welling, Asst. Worship Pastor
Dr. Michael Wittmer was a professor of mine while I was in seminary and I read Don’t Stop Believing then. I just recently picked it up again and was reminded of what a great job Dr. Wittmer does explaining the importance of living like Jesus and believing the right things about Jesus and the Faith. He clearly and interestingly addresses some of the most serious problems in the church today with great wisdom and even a little humor. Heaven is for Real is a terrific read for the entire family. It challenges you to think about your view of Heaven and what is coming for us after we die. It’s a great reminder of the promise for all of us who are believers.
Gary Schmidt’s retelling of Pilgrim’s Progress is a refreshing take on John Bunyan’s 17th century tale of Christian’s journey from the City of Destruction to the Heavenly Palace. With the creativity of a master storyteller, Schmidt’s vivid imagKristin Ripley Festival of Lights 2011 ery makes Christian’s journey Asst. Drama Director thrilling and exciting for the readers who travel along with and Cast Member him. Beautiful watercolor illustrations capture the essence of the colorful cast of characters Christian meets along the way. God’s power is demonstrated again and again as He triumphs over the evil that seeks to destroy. This book would be an excellent choice for readers of all ages, or for families to enjoy together during this Christmas season! December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 9
life{together} experiencing community at calvary
From Lonely to loved finding community on monday nights by robin adrianse
As a single woman with no children and no family, I struggle with loneliness and feeling different from everybody else. I joined Monday Night Bible Study last January and was placed with a loving, caring group of women. Joining this Monday Night Bible Study group was the first time I really experienced love and what it truly means. Our group is very close knit and they have “shrink wrapped” me with their love and support. Monday Night Bible Study only meets throughout the school year, but we kept in touch Are you looking for community? throughout the summer as well. To help make this kind of community accessible to everyone, we are launching lots of The impact on me has been huge as far as not being discouraged new Community Groups at Calvary. There is a group for everyone! Neighborhood that my life is different from other people’s just because I’m single, groups meet in homes throughout the area. Family groups are intended to help without children or family. I really didn’t understand the Bible and entire families experience community together. Global groups are new and will have with Pastor Samra’s teaching and what I’ve learned on Monday a focus on living a missional life. Monday Night Bible Study groups meet Nights, I was able to share my faith with a friend and she is now here at the church. We also continue to have a myriad of groups for Women, Men, coming to church and is growing in her relationship with God. Young Adults and Seniors, along with a number of Support Groups. It’s a great feeling to be able to pay it forward and encourage others who need Christ. The ladies in my study have encouraged me Ready to get connected? in my walk and have noticed that I am growing. If you are feeling Stop at the Connection Point on Sundays or contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@ lonely, need encouragement or feel like your life is empty, join a calvarygr.org) at 956-9377, ext. 5173. community group! People there will make you feel loved, encourage you, pray for you and challenge you to grow in your faith.
DID YOU KNOW? • • • • • • • •
Over 200 people signed up for our Fall Community Group Launch 18 new community groups started this fall 3 new family groups started this fall 60+ community groups meet across the greater Grand Rapids area 24 Adult Sunday Classes meet weekly here at church. 15 small groups meet in our Monday Night Bible Study. Another community launch is taking place February 12, to form new groups We are looking for stories of your community group experience. Contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5173 for more information or to share your story.
10 | November 2011 | calvarygr.org
Behind the Scenes
Serving at Calvary with Pam Lammers Where do you currently serve at Calvary?
Discovery can help you learn more about your spiritual walk, your spiritual gifts and connecting with others at Calvary as you meet with trained staff members.
How did you begin serving at Calvary?
A recent participant said, “My experience in my Discovery meeting was instrumental in the growth of my walk with Jesus. I was encouraged and affirmed that my gifts were specifically given to me and that I am a vital member of the body of Christ.”
Currently I am a Team Leader for pre-k, kindergarten and first grade. I also help on Wednesday nights with crafts for the Little WOW kids. In addition, I am busy getting things organized for Festival of Lights, and then helping to get costumes for the Children’s Christmas Musical. Earlier this year, I also helped with costumes for the trading cards created for WOW.
pam lammers
I first started out listening to kids say their memory verses when my youngest was in Cubbies, and my involvement grew from there. My children were involved in Sunday School and choir, and there was always a need for help. As my kids would say, I just can’t say no.
What challenges have you encountered in your ministry?
Challenges? Well I guess I don’t really feel I have that many challenges, if any. I have great teachers/volunteers with whom I stay in contact with through emails or talking to on Sunday mornings. If we have an issue, we just pray about it, and work through it and things always work out. With Festival, it is always crazy busy! But again, if there is a challenge, you just take a deep breath, pray, and things always work out.
How has God blessed you through serving?
Oh my, what can I say - I love those little kids, they are great. For the most part they always have a smile on their face, love to show you what they did in their rooms—and it’s great to watch them grow and come to know and love Jesus! As I also work on Festival this time of year, I find I most enjoy seeing all the pieces and people come together. From tech week to the performances, it’s a such a joy to watch everyone’s hard work come to life. Each year God blesses us with a great group of people, both on stage and off.
Fill out a Discovery card at one of the Information Centers to receive your packet, go online to our Serving Ministry page, or contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@ calvarygr.org) at ext 5077.
Serving Opportunities Abound
If you are a child of God, He has gifted you to serve in the body of Christ. Find out how you can get connected to use your abilities and passions, by contacting Judie Fielstra (jfielstra@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5095. Go online to our Serving Ministry page to see some of our current serving needs.
Are you new to Calvary Church? Are you finding it hard to navigate or get plugged in? Journey together with us on Wednesdays, January 18 and 25 and February 1 and 8 in room 122 from 5:15-6:30pm. This is designed to be an informal setting to share a meal together as our guest, meet staff, tour the building, meet others new to Calvary, and learn more about Calvary ministries. Reservations are needed by Monday, January 16 to Sharon (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5077.
December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 11
coming in 2012
save the date
7th/8th grade & High School: Winter retreat
High school: january 20-22 | 7th/8th: February 17-19 | Spring Hill camp Cost: Early Bird - $120 (pay in full 2 weeks prior); Regular Rate - $130 Registration opens on December 11 for HSM; sign up at UNITED on Sunday nights or in the Students Office. Registration opens on January 27 for 7th/8th grade students.
Community Group launch
February 12 | 4:00-6:00pm | Fellowship Hall We’ll be launching new neighborhood, family and global groups. Each new group will be unique, reflecting the personality of its members. All will commit to meet at least eight times. Each group will involve regular gatherings that include food, conversation, prayer and Bible study.
Living a full life - Christian Retirement Event
February 23 | 9:30am-1:00pm | fellowship hall
Join Dr. L. James Harvey (author of the book Run Thru the Tape) for this new workshop designed to help you see how the last third of life is the best third!
march madness Family Event
March 15-16 | Calvary gym
Watch as much or as little as you can handle of the first round action of 2012 March Madness in a safe, smoke-free, alcohol-free environment!
easter Week services
Palm sunday: APril 1 | 8:10am, 9:40am, 11:15am Maundy thursday: April 5 | 7:00pm Good Friday: April 6 | 7:00pm Easter: April 8 | 8:10am, 9:40am, 11:15am* Service times may be adjusted as the date draws closer. Please refer to calvarygr.org for exact times.
*
missions sunday
Sunday, april 22
Thinking Globally, Acting Locally. What does it mean? What does it look like? Does it involve me?
All church food drive
Sunday, april 29
Plan ahead and start setting aside some non-perishable food for Calvary’s Food Pantry.
Choir and orchestra season finale concert
may 20 | 6:00pm
They will be performing their favorite songs from this past year along with congregational worship and a few surprises. You will not want to miss this great evening of worship and celebration.
Children: csI: Creative Science investigators
june 12-14 | Calvary Church
This year’s theme is Rock’n Reptiles, Chemical Reactions and the Human Machine. Children fiveyears-old through fourth grade gather at Calvary for three days of crazy, science-focused fun. 12 | December 2011 | calvarygr.org
simple faith the only dumb question is the one you don’t ask
Joe & Carol DeGennaro Simple Faith Teachers
Have you ever wanted to ask a question about the Bible and didn’t because you were sure people would think you were inadequate or would wonder what the heck you were doing in church? This is a class you need to investigate. It’s called Simple Faith because we make it a point to keep it simple. At one time we have both felt inadequate, like we didn’t quite fit in here, and have since become passionate about meeting with people who feel the same way.
If you have been at Calvary for 40 years or this is your first time, come check out Simple Faith. The next class begins Sunday, January 15 at 11:15am in room 131-33. All you have to bring is a Bible, if you have one, or if you don't we'll get you one. Each week we take our time going through a study guide and learning along with you what God is teaching. Remember, the only dumb question is the one you don't ask. To sign up for our next class, contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5173.
December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 13
Special Needs Ministry Off to Church We Go!
By Elleen Fitzgerald, Assistant Director, Special Needs Ministry For most of us going to church is a very simple task, we just jump in our car and off to church we go. For people with special needs, it is not so easy. Often they must rely on someone else or a transportation organization to get them to church and home again. They do not have to think about the cost of gas, or crazy drivers, or snow storms, but instead focus on their strong desire to be at church with their friends and to learn more about God. Approximately a year ago, a stranger came to Calvary inquiring about the special needs ministry here. The information they had located on the internet expressed that we had a thriving ministry to those with disabilities that sparked their curiosity. After observing the Go-Getters class one Wednesday evening, this stranger made a very generous donation, in honor of a family member, to assist the ministry in its efforts to reach those with disabilities in our community. This past summer, Calvary purchased a small, used bus with a wheelchair lift. Headed by Joe VanHolstyn, CDL licensed drivers were pursued and Calvary’s new bus is now in use. This has allowed additional people to attend church and the quickly expanding special needs ministry.
“Swinging” with the Explorers and “Seeing” with the Seekers By Judi Warner, Facilitator, Special Needs Ministry
needs and gifts of each child and in doing so be better able to show God’s love to them. If a child is challenged with a Sensory Processing Disorder, the use of a swing can be a helpful way to calm down the nervous system. Kyle and many other students in the Explorers room love the swaying and spinning that our swing provides. Jessica, from the Seekers class enjoys the visual sensations To understand what someone with SPD may of seeing pictures, feeling the textures and be experiencing, imagine your clothes feel- hearing the pages turn as she looks at books. ing like they were made of sandpaper. Or Other sensory equipment is offered for our that the hum from certain lights were as students such as sound blockers, exercise loud as someone yelling in your ears. These balls, textured and visually creative toys. are just a couple examples of experiences in We are thankful that we can be sensitive to the life of someone with a Sensory Process- these challenges and offer strategies that ing Disorder. help children explore and seek God’s Word. It is our desire to understand the unique Did you know that a recent study* suggests that one in every six children experiences sensory symptoms that may be significant enough to affect aspects of everyday life functions? With Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD); the brain isn’t able to process all the sensory information effectively, resulting in sensory overload or the craving for more.
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*
If you feel God tugging at your heart strings to serve within this ministry, please give us a call. Elleen Fitzgerald // efitzgerald@calvarygr.org // ext. 5623
Prayer
Our overall emphasis in all three segments of Special Needs Ministry this year is prayer. Reflected on the T-shirts worn by all the students, we are reminded of the peace God gives us through the power of prayer. In Colossians 4:2 it says, “Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” As a ministry full of students with diverse gifts and abilities, our focus is not to be a ministry TO them but to be a ministry OF them! The students who want to be more actively involved in the ministry are encouraged to do so, and new opportunities are continually being explored. Monica, a wonderful young woman, has put both the opportunity of being part OF the ministry and the power of prayer into practice. She masterfully leads her friends in prayer, speaking honestly and lovingly to God. She is one of the many special gems of the special needs ministry.
Tech Saavy Matt
Gadgets, cell phones and computers can be confusing and challenging for those of us who lack technical savyness. That’s not so for Matt, a Go-Getter student, eager to take on the challenge each Wednesday in the Chapel sound booth. He teaches some of the old guys new tricks and keeps the audio running. “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ” (I Corinthians 12:12). Within the body of Go-Getters there are many parts, each one helping the other and honoring God. Ben-Sasson, Carter, Briggs-Gowen,2009
*
Rediscovering the grace of giving
by Sue Gardner
2011-2012 Board Members Elders
Dennis Bergakker (dbergakker@calvarygr.org)
Lee Brenner
(lbrenner@calvarygr.org)
Eric Cerling
(ecerling@calvarygr.org)
Jim DeVries
I was 29 years old when I stepped into Calvary Church and heard the gospel message for the first time at Festival of Lights. I asked Christ into my heart that night 24 years ago. A few years later I met my husband, Scott. Together, we began to grow in our faith. Scott was recovering from a 15year addiction to crack and cocaine, and we weren’t sure if he would be able to find a job again. We both loved the Lord and wanted to obey Him. In our early years of marriage we had very little, but the Lord taught us to trust Him in everything, even the spiritual discipline of tithing.
began to justify that maybe it would be okay with God if we tithed less, or not at all. That’s what we did. I put out of my mind all of those things that God had done for us and allowed the enemy to enter into my thoughts.
(jdevries@calvarygr.org)
That was two years ago. During that time I was anxious about our income, stressed about how to make ends meet, and even faced some difficult financial situations at work. In October, I picked up a copy of the Calvary Life. As I began to read the story of God’s faithfulness to the couple who tithed through the years, conviction covered over me and I began to cry and cry. I knelt down and cried out to the Lord to forgive me for listening to all those lies the enemy was telling me. As I prayed, I sensed the Holy Spirit speak to my heart and say, “You have forsaken your first love… Repent and do the things you did at first” (Revelation 2:4, 5). I ran to Scott and told him about my conviction and together we prayed that God would forgive us both. Immediately, the Holy Spirit filled my heart with his Word and said, “Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the desert” (Deuteronomy 8:2).
(npalacios@calvarygr.org)
Ron Haas
(rhaas@calvarygr.org)
Larry Hulst
(lhulst@calvarygr.org)
Noe Palacios
Scott was making minimum wage, which was about $6 an hour. I was working full time and making only $20,000 a year. In obedience, we began to trust God to take care of us, and He did! On many different occasions, we weren’t sure if we could make a house payment or buy groceries. It was amazing to watch God work. People would show up at our door with groceries just when we needed help. We continued to trust and tithe. One time our taxes were due and we didn’t have any money. I received a check in the mail that I never Since that time, my peace has returned. The very next week expected for the exact amount that I owed. God was always we began tithing again. I know God is in control of all that we faithful! have and He knows all that we need. I think about the last few weeks and cannot believe that I allowed the enemy to Those early days of walking with the Lord were so precious steal my peace and joy in this area of my life for the last two to us and we will never forget them. Scott and I spent years years. God is working in Scott’s job. Our finances have new rebuilding our lives with the help of the Lord. We borrowed priorities and with God’s help we are working to eliminate a year and a half’s worth of income so I could complete my our debt. I am trusting God to help me in my work and just degree hoping to find a better job, but we still remained obe- this week he opened some new doors. I want to thank that dient and continued to tithe. couple for sharing how God has been faithful in their lives. God’s faithfulness and grace are amazing. Over the years we accumulated more things, got better jobs, and bought a bigger house. God had blessed us, but we did If you have a testimony about how God has prompted you to discover or rediscover the grace of giving, please just as the Israelites did, we forgot him and we went our own contact Elder Ron Haas (rhaas@calvarygr.org). If you way. When the economy tanked a few years ago, I began to would like to learn more about generous giving, visit stress about how we would make all of our payments. We generousyou.org.
Kent Snoeyink
(ksnoeyink@calvarygr.org)
Vernon Spears
(vspears@calvarygr.org)
Mike Still
(mstill@calvarygr.org)
Allen VanHaitsma
(avanhaitsma@calvarygr.org)
Dan Visser
(dvisser@calvarygr.org)
Jerry Ward
(jward@calvarygr.org)
Deacons
Robert Bass Jim Hoekwater Robert Johnston Tom Miller David Radde Mike Reiffer Jeff Rogers Jim Stubblefield Howard Timmer Dan Wynalda Dan Wiersma Todd Wilde If you have any questions or comments you would like to share with an elder, please see the list above.
December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 15
one heart
Calvary Missions & outreach 2011-2012
One Heart for the City: Help Undecorate the Trees for Take Hold!
As a church-wide project this holiday season, we are collecting items for Shane & Heather Cox’s church, Take Hold. Calvary helped plant this church located in the Heartside district this past year. Take Hold has become a safe, caring place for the residents in this neighborhood as the Cox’s have become Christ’s hands and feet, and lives are being transformed. Please bring your new, unwrapped gifts to the Calvary Café on December 4 and 11. Your gifts will be delivered to Take Hold before Christmas.
Wish List for Take Hold Church For their benevolent ministry: Clothing all sizes - Infant through Adult, NEW and unwrapped Clothes Coats Hats Gloves Scarfs Boots Toys Meijer gift cards
For the church: Water bottles Snacks Toilet paper Napkins Plates Paper towels Coffee Computer paper Cleaning supplies Craft supplies
one hea r the city rt fo
Perspectives on the World Christian Movement The “Perspectives” course is designed to equip the people of God for strategic participation in His plan to reach all peoples, tongues, tribes and nations. It is a powerful, in-depth course that explores God’s heart for all nations and His Kingdom purpose for all Christians. In new and exciting ways you will see the world and your place in it like never before. This is not just a missions course for some…it’s a discipleship course for all. Find your place and purpose in God’s plan. The Grand Rapids East Perspectives Course will meet on Tuesdays, January 17 – April 24, 2102, from 6:30-9:30pm, at Grace Bible College. Brochures are available in the Missions Office and at the Information Desk at the back of the Sanctuary, or visit www.perspectives.org/greast for more information. Scholarships are available.
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Open Door Vision Great door prizes. Faces from all over the world. A comedic emcee. Fun information about our great State. What am I describing? Neighbor’s International Student Banquet 2011! Every fall, Neighbor’s International hosts a banquet for international students at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The banquet gives us the opportunity to connect with the students to let them know that we are here to help them. This year we were able to connect with 90 students from 22 different countries! Some of the countries represented were Saudi Arabia, Libya, China, Iran, and Vietnam. As we connect with the students, we seek to give them information that will help them with their everyday lives in America. This year, our theme revolved around the “Top 10 Things to Do in Michigan.” We offered practical advice about fun things to do, cool places to visit, and where to go should they need any assistance. We also offered fun door prizes to the students, such as, Kilwin Fudge, s’mores kits, Griffin’s tickets and tickets to the Grand Rapids Symphony, just to name a few. We also hope to connect students with a Friendship Partner. A Friendship Partner can be a single person or family that is willing to invite the students into their lives by meeting with them on a regular basis. It is estimated that 80% of international students never set foot in an American home. We hope that by connecting American partners with international students we can help students with the difficult transition of adjusting to a new culture. The value for the Friendship Partner is that it opens up a different culture for them and allows them insight into the lives of these students. We ended the evening encouraging them to visit a church. We even provided a gift card so they could have the cultural experience of going out to dinner after church! As the students left, they were given bags with all of the information presented that evening and a Jesus DVD. They left with smiles on their faces and many thank you’s. It was an amazing evening. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with these students from all over the world and thankful for those who took their time to support this work. ***We are still in need of additional Friendship Partners. If you are interested in volunteering with Neighbor’s International, please contact Cynthia Sommerfeld at neighbors_international@calvary.org or 616-676-7292.
For our Open Door Vision project this next year, Calvary Church has identified four organizations located in strategic areas, and involved in strategic ministry to focus our efforts. Situated in North Africa and the Middle East, these groups are reaching millions with the truth of the Gospel on a daily basis, and are providing discipleship and training for young leaders. Middle East Media and Sat-7 use television, websites, radio, music videos, and printed materials to communicate the gospel to almost half a billion people in the region that stretches from Morocco to Afghanistan, and God is blessing their efforts in bringing tens of thousands to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. The mission of the European Training Center and Bethlehem Bible College is to provide vocational training in business, technology, media and more, as well as training for pastors and Christian leaders. Would you commit to helping these ministries fulfill the vision God has given them? Donations will be collected throughout 2012. Checks can be made payable to Calvary Church, noting “ODV” on the memo line, or use a regular giving envelope and check the ODV box. For more information, please contact the Missions Office at ext. 5022 or visit calvarygr.org/events/ODV-2011.
December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 17
CALVARY CHURCH
Activity GUIDE Sunday Morning Worship Service 8:10am, 9:40am, 11:15am | Sanctuary
Sunday Evening Worship Service 6:00pm | Chapel
December 2011 Church Office Hours Monday-Friday: 8:30am-5:00pm Sunday: 7:30am-12:30pm
Note: The church office will be closed December 23 and 26 for the Christmas holiday and December 30 and January 2 for New Year’s.
Quick Connect administrative staff information in alpha order by ministry
Benevolence
Pastoral Care
Calvary Community
Senior Adults
Lynnell Bok lbok@calvarygr.org ext. 3510
Brenda Neher bneher@calvarygr.org ext. 5650
Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672
Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672
Children
Serving
Community Outreach
Special Needs
Facilities
Students
Carla Boon-Julien cboonjulien@calvarygr.org ext. 5067
Sharon Kaiser skaiser@calvarygr.org ext. 5077
Melissa DeBoer mdeboer@calvarygr.org ext. 5097
Library
Judie Fielstra jfielstra@calvarygr.org ext. 5095
Elleen Fitzgerald efitzgerald@calvarygr.org ext. 5623
Natalie Uecker calvarystudents @calvarygr.org ext. 5181
library@calvarygr.org ext. 5290
Technical Services
Marketing
Women
Men
Worship
Missions
Young Adults
Jackie Rice jrice@calvarygr.org ext. 5042
Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618
Chris DeHaan missions@calvarygr.org ext. 5022
media@calvarygr.org
Elaine Meredith emeredith@calvarygr.org ext. 5186
Kristen White kwhite@calvarygr.org ext. 5155
Mason D. Sherrill msherrill@calvarygr.org ext. 5036
Church Phone Number: (616) 956-9377 Address: 707 E Beltline NE | Grand Rapids MI 49525
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Children Carla | childrensministry@calvarygr.org | ext. 5067 Child Dedication January 15 | 4:30pm | Chapel At our Child Dedication services, extended family members and friends have the opportunity to show support as parents commit their children to the Lord. To participate, contact Carla at ext. 5067 by January 9.
Fellowship Hall where we will be building gingerbread houses!
Family Movie Matinee December 3 | 10:30am | Entrance K Kingdom Kids is excited to present the latest VeggieTales movie, The Little Drummer Boy. In this version of a holiday classic Junior Asparagus stars as The Little Drummer Boy, a lonely child who finds the true meaning of Christmas when he stumbles upon the birth of the baby Jesus. A story of hope, love, and forgiveness, this timeless tale will warm the hearts of children everywhere. Bring a blanket to sit on, and one canned food item for Calvary’s food pantry; we’ll supply the popcorn. This is a free family event; parents, please accompany your children.
WOW Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm | Entrance K It is not too late to join WOW Wednesdays. This year in WOW kids will compile a James Journal scrapbook from weekly lessons learned in James chapter 3. They will also be able to identify 30 major events in Jesus life when he modeled actions described in James 3 and place them on a timeline. In addition, children will continue memorization of James chapter 3 (through song).
Family Service Sunday December 25 is a family service Sunday. Nursery is available; children preschool age and older are encouraged to attend the service with their family (activity boxes are available at the desk near Entrance N). If needed, room 254 is open for children ages three through five. WOW Gingerbread House Building Event December 14 | 7:15pm | Fellowship Hall On this night, WOW will end early. Please plan to pick up all of your children at 7:15pm (including nursery and preschool ages), and then join us in
Help us prepare for this event by donating something from the list below. Drop off donations in the buckets at the Entrance K or M before Monday, December 12. List: powdered sugar, graham crackers, M&M’s®, Skittles®, candy corn, gumdrops, pretzels, marshmallows, etc.
5th-8th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 The Main Event Sunday Mornings | 9:40am 5th/6th: Room 109 | 7th/8th: Room 108 On Sunday morning, we spend time hanging out, worshiping, and finding creative ways to learn more about God’s Word as a community of middle school students. Our theme this year is Cafeteria: never dine alone. It’s our desire to emphasize to students why it’s important to be with other Christians as we grow closer to God. ProjectSERVE! Saturday, December 10 | 1:45-3:30pm Meet at Entrance J | Location: Pilgrim’s Manor Christmas can be a lonely time of year for some. As
a group let’s turn the focus away from us and our fun and focus on the needs of others. We will sing carols with senior citizens at a nursing home and offer friendship to the lonely. Because ultimately following Jesus isn’t about us; it’s about serving God by serving others. Wear festive Christmas colors and get ready to sing Christmas carols & play bingo! All MSM students grades 5-8 are welcome to join us. 5th/6th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Refuge Wednesdays | 6:30-8:00pm | Room 109 The school week can be tough. Homework, activities and the pressures of school make your life busy. That’s why we offer refuge every Wednesday night. It’s a great time of fun and encouragement where we play games and learn about God with a small group of Christian friends. You can join Refuge any time in the school year. 7th/8th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Oasis Wednesdays | Room 108 | 6:30-8:00pm Oasis is our Wednesday night small group program. Want to go deeper asking specific questions about topics that concern you? Want to make some close friends? Want to get to know some of our fun, caring leaders on a more personal level? Whatever your reason in coming, Oasis is an awesome place for 7th and 8th grade students! We’ll play games, worship, hear a brief talk, and break up into our groups. You can join Oasis any time in the school year, just show up! High School calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 UNITED Sundays | 6:00-8:30pm | Room 108 If you are in high school, you belong with us at UNITED. Come out for a night of worship through singing, learn from God’s word, interact with friends and leaders in small groups, play fun games and watch crazy videos…anything could happen. UNITED @ Homes December 4 | 6:00-8:30pm The first Sunday of every month United meets in
homes. Contact your small group leader or the Student Ministries Office for your grade’s location. High School: En Route Winter Retreat January 20-22 | Spring Hill Camp Cost: Early Bird - $120 (pay in full by January 9) Regular Rate - $130 Registration opens on December 11. Sign up at UNITED or in the Student Ministries Office. Note: In addition to the year-long Calvary Church release form, you’ll need a non-refundable deposit, and a Spring Hill medical release form completed. Young Adults a ministry for young adults 18-34 Mason | msherrill@calvarygr.org | ext. 5036 We were not meant to walk through this life alone, but to experience its fullness in community. That’s why we gather together to grow spiritually through age-specific teaching, edifying fellowship, and serving. The Young Adult Ministry offers three different communities where you can connect with a group that’s right for you. For more information see below or contact Mason D. Sherrill.
to learn about additional ways to get involved at Calvary Church. For more information, contact Natalie Kompik. College Life Thursdays | 7:00pm | Room 108 Are you interested in joining a diverse community of fellow college-aged young adults? Join us as we meet together as a community for worship, small groups, and teaching on Thursdays. This is a great opportunity to build relationships with college students from the Grand Rapids area and to grow in our faith together. For more information contact Natalie Kompik. College Discipleship: On Campus Groups These groups meet on-campus once a week on or various college campuses. Not currently taking classes? We still have a group for you! Gather with fellow believers for an informal time of sharing and catching-up about what is happening in our lives. For more information contact Carl Crispin (ccrispin@calvarygr.org).
College a community for young adults 18-22 Natalie | nkompik@calvarygr.org | ext. 5165 College Ministry Lunch Sundays | 12:30pm | Room 121 If you are interested in connecting with other college-aged young adults that attend Calvary, you are invited to join the College Ministry for a free lunch every Sunday after the third service. This is a great way to fellowship with other students and December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 19
MErge a community for single young adults ages 22-34 Sue | sschroeder@calvarygr.org | ext. 5093 Merge Sundays at 11:15am in Room 137 Come just as you are and join us for a time of fellowship and prayer as we discuss the sermon and study God’s Word. Together we’ll explore what God is revealing to each one of us.
Merge/FLOCK (Adult Sunday Class) Potluck December 18 | 11:15 am | Room 137 Every Sunday the FLOCK and Merge class pass each other in the hall, but this Sunday we’ll join together for a potluck and have a great time! If you are a part of the FLOCK or Merge communities, please bring a dish to pass and join us for a time of fellowship as our two communities share some food and conversation.
Festival of Lights and Christmas Celebration December 3 | 3:00pm | Calvary Church Invite a friend and join Merge as we enjoy Festival of Lights together. Afterward we will gather at the Gibsons’ home for a Christmas celebration with appetizers and desserts. Tickets are $7 per person. Please sign up in Merge.
Foundations a community for young couples ages 22-32 JP | jgaylord@calvarygr.org | ext. 5541 Sundays | 11:15am | Room 125 Join us this fall for our series Life 101 – why doctrine actually matters and how it influences our lives. Contact JP Gaylord for more information.
Book Club December 11 | 7:00pm | Icons Coffee Join us as we discuss The 10 Second Rule with author and Calvary member Clare DeGraaf. We will meet at Icons Coffee at 2090 Celebration Drive across from Celebration Cinema. In this book “Clare De Graaf offers an uncomplicated, straightforward antidote for breaking these habits of inaction and re-energizing your faith. He calls it The 10 Second Rule: just do the next thing you’re reasonably certain Jesus wants you to do. (And do it quickly before you change your mind.) The 10 Second Rule will empower you to take simple ‘baby steps’ of obedience, as God directs you. This is not only a “rule” you can do – it’s one you’ll want to do!”
Calvary Community Brenda | bneher@calvarygr.org | ext. 5650 Monday Night Bible Study Monday | 7:00-8:35pm | Chapel | Teacher: Ed Kaleefey Monday Night Bible Study is a place where men and women come together for fellowship, prayer and studying God’s Word. The study for the next semester is Complete in Christ: A Study of Colossians, written by Nancy Samra. We will learn from the apostle Paul what believers are to know and how to act. Contact Dave Thrasher at 243-6603 (men) or Carol Spencer at 942-4743 (women) if you have any questions. Join anytime.
7th/8th grade & High School Winter retreat High school: january 20-22 7th/8th: February 17-19 Spring Hill camp See page 19 for details.
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Membership Class Saturday, January 21 from 9:00am-2:30pm We believe membership in the local church is important. Membership means commitment to learn, to be in community and to contribute – giving back to God what He so richly gives to us. Register online or contact Brenda (membership@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5650 by January 16. Pre-registration is required. Lunch is provided. Sorry, no childcare. Compassion Ministries Lou | ldegraaf@calvarygr.org | ext. 3618 DivorceCare January 3-March 27 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 140 Cost: $20 | Register by contacting Lou DeGraaf This 13 week seminar, led by people who understand the pain of separation and divorce, will help you recover from the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. DC4K (DivorceCare for Kids) January 3-March 27 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 143 Cost: $15* | Register by contacting Lou DeGraaf Offered simultaneously with DivorceCare, this 13 week class is geared for elementary age children. DC4K provides a safe, neutral and fun place where children learn to understand their feelings, express their emotions appropriately, learn to feel better about themselves, develop coping skills and are introduced to biblical concepts that bring comfort. Childcare will be provided for children birth through preschool. * Scholarships available. Family Life Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Marriage Prep Wokrshop Sundays, January 22 & 29 | 1:00-5:00pm Yellow House | Cost: $75 per couple We believe it is necessary to know as much as possible about each other going into marriage. It is important to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, as well as faith and fears, in order to build your relationship into all that it can be – into all that God intended it to be. Contact Regina to register.
Pastoral care Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Confident Caregivers December 19 | 11:30am -1:00pm | Room 123 As a caregiver, do you ever feel alone? Does it seem like no one really understands the burden you’re carrying? Confident Caregivers of West Michigan is a monthly support group for sharing needs, questions, answers and encouragement. Join us this month for our 10th Annual Christmas Party. R.S.V.P. by December 15 to Regina. GriefShare Workshop January 3-April 3 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 207 Cost: $20 | Contact Regina to register This 13-week seminar and support group, led by facilitators who understand what you are experiencing, is for people grieving the loss of someone close. It will offer you comfort and encouragement during this difficult time as well as give you the opportunity to interact with others who have experienced a recent loss. Prayer Groups Intercessors Prayer Group Wednesdays | 6:45pm | Room 212 Open to anyone who is interested in praying for Calvary Church, its pastors, its staff, its volunteers, its congregation and its programming. For details, or to submit prayer requests, contact prayer@calvarygr.org. Needed: People Committed to Prayer Every half hour throughout Saturday night there are people praying for Pastor Jim and the Sunday services. Right now that chain is broken; there are several slots empty of prayer. Would you please consider filling one half hour time? You will be provided with a prayer guide but this is your private prayer time with God on behalf of our church. Contact Amber (akkoster@yahoo.com). Pastor Jim Samra’s Prayer Team People on this team agree to pray daily for the Samras and for the church. Jim sends out weekly prayer requests to the team as well as requests throughout the week when he needs immediate help. Contact Ruth Gudbrandson (rgudbrandson@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5013.
community group winter launch FEBRUARY 12 | 4:00-6:00PM | FELLOWSHIP HALL We’ll be launching new neighborhood, family and global groups. Each new group will be unique, reflecting the personality of its members. Each group will involve regular gatherings that include Bible study, prayer, conversation and food. Watch for sign-up details soon!
Pastors’ Prayer Partners You will receive weekly updates from the Pastoral Staff via email or postal mail. Your obligation is to pray with a team of prayer warriors during one service a month, and pray in your own home regularly for their requests. Contact Arlene Timmer (hrtakt@iserv.net) at 365-0728. Prayer & Fasting for the Unemployed Thursdays | 12:00-1:00pm | Chapel Please join us every third Thursday for a time of prayer and fasting for the unemployed. Prayer for Worship Services Sundays | 7:45-8:05am (in Jim Samra’s office), 9:15-9:35am, 10:50-11:10am (in Room 105) You are invited to join others meeting on Sundays before each service to pray specifically that God would bless our morning services. All are encouraged to pick a time and come. Third Monday Missionary Prayer Bring your lunch and pray for our missionaries serving around the world on the third Monday of each month at 11:30pm in room 207. Special needs Elleen | efitzgerald@calvarygr.org | ext. 5623 Go-Getters (Adults with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Chapel The Go-Getter class is growing in size as well as knowledge of God’s Word. Their studies this fall will include the book of John and additional biblical characters. The students continue to care for and pray for others with such sincerity and love. Mentors are needed to bring them through our
booklet “Understanding Faith in Jesus” and the process that follows. Explorers (Children with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 114 Explorers Sunday morning class is an interactive, sensory-based learning excursion through God’s Word! We are exploring God’s Word to learn and grow in Him through our own abilities. As we continue on in our adventure, we are equipping our students to learn in an environment that best suits their needs as followers of Christ. Some of our students start their journeys with Explorers with the ultimate goal of inclusion within Calvary’s community. Seekers (Youth with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 112 In Seekers, we are equipping ourselves with the armor of God! We are discovering how to “wear” God’s armor every day by actively studying His Word. Through the use of different fine motor skills and stimulating activities, Seekers are equipping themselves with important values, engaging in them, and demonstrating them to others. Senior Adults Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Monday Monthly Luncheon December 5 | 10:20am | Fellowship Hall Cost: $7 Join us for our Annual Christmas Concert with the NorthPointe Christian High School Chorale. Make reservations with Howard & Arlene Timmer at 365-0728, Virginia Claybrook at 940December 2011 | calvarygr.org | 21
1807, or Terry & Linda Markham at 247-8619 by November 28. Wednesday Morning Bible Study Wednesday | 9:30am | Chapel Join us as Tom Couch continues his series from the book of Genesis 11 ”Learning to Live by Faith” studies in the life of Abraham. Refreshments are served from 9:30-9:50am, and the study begins promptly at 10:00am. SErving Opportunities Children’s Ministry We still have 14 different opportunities to serve in Children’s Ministry on Sunday mornings, WOW, LUMIN8 on Wednesday evenings as teachers, helpers and caregivers. Contact childrensministry@calvarygr.org at ext. 5067. Hungry College Students Need You We are looking for individuals, families, or Adult lasses who would be willing to join us in ministry by cooking a meal one Sunday a month for about 60 college-aged students. (Students would enjoy this meal after the third service.) Interested? Contact Natalie (nkompik@calvarygr.org). Serve With Your Free Time Do you have an hour or two once a week between 7:00am and 7:00pm? Are you looking to plug in and use your skills for Kingdom work? The Facilities Team is looking for volunteer team members that can do simple general tasks, like putting offering envelopes in the pews, to those with “handyman” skills. If you would like more information or want to just learn what we have available that would fit your needs, contact Earl Jenkins (ejenkins@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5117. Shut-In Ministry If you have a heart of mercy for those who are lonely and compassion for those who are suffering, please prayerfully consider joining the Shut-In Ministry Team. Contact Rich Dyer (richguy101@comcast.net). Snow Removal Volunteers are needed to help with snow removal this winter. Contact Kevin Troupe (ktroupe@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5112 if to serve.
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Giving opportunities Lynnell | lbok@calvarygr.org | ext. 3510 Christmas Baskets Be a Christmas blessing by providing a food basket for a Calvary family. Our goal is to provide 80 baskets with special holiday treats for families using the Calvary Food Pantry this year. You can sign up with Lynnell Bok (lbok@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3510. Food Suggestions: • Boxed Potatoes, Rice, Mac & Cheese • Canned Items – Fruits, Vegetables, Sweet Potatoes, Yams • Boxed Desserts – Cakes, Brownies, Cookies, etc. • Baking Items – Flour, Sugar, Shortening, Spices • Foods – Peanut Butter, Jams, Soups, Gravy • Beverages & Snacks – Fruit Juice, Drink Boxes **No canned hams needed, the food pantry will provide fresh hams.** Additional Suggestions: Food Baskets can be dropped off at the Yellow House, Monday, December 5-Friday, December 16, 8:30am-5:00pm. Baskets will be delivered on Wednesday, December 21. Thank you for bringing Christmas cheer to a family in need. Merry Christmas! • Laundry baskets serve as an excellent container.
• • • •
If you still have room, you may add other non-refrigerated foods that can be used at any time. Besides food, you may want to include a Christmas book, an ornament, Christmas candy, a decorative towel or any kind of small gift a family might enjoy together. Avoid items that could be bruised or damaged while packed inside the basket. Use your imagination
Food Pantry Please help make Christmas families utilizing the pantry. items are needed: • Frostings • • Cookie • decorations • • Assorted baking • ingredients • • Brown and • white sugar • Powdered sugar • Butter
special for our The following Cooking oils Canned pie filling Canned fruit Spices Gravy Fresh & boxed potatoes
Clothes Closet With winter approaching, the Clothes Closet needs the following items: boots for men, women and children; coats, snow pants, snowsuits, hats, gloves and scarves; plus warm clothing. All items donated are tax exempt. All items listed in the Giving Opportunities section above can be dropped off at the Yellow House, located behind Calvary on Bradford Street.
december calendar Sunday
Monday
tuesday
Wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
1 9:00am MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
There’s so much going on at calvary, we can’t fit it all on this calendar! We’ve only listed a few events for each day so be sure to refer to the web calendar at calvarygr.org or the back of the Sunday bulletin for all our recurring weekly activities.
4
5 10:30am Seniors Luncheon
7 Wednesday Fellowship Dinner Menu: Grilled Swiss Steak
8:10am Prodigal Prayer Group
3:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King* Merge: FOL & Christmas Celebration 7:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King*
8 7:00pm College Life
9 7:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King*
6:00pm UNITED @ homes
10 1:00pm MIddle School Ministry: ProjectServe! 3:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King*
6:30pm WOW (Children) 5th-8th Grade Community Groups Go-Getters (Special Needs Adults)
3:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King*
3 10:30am Family Movie Matinee
College Life
6 6:00am Men’s Bible Studies
7:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King*
7:00pm Special Needs Ministry ONLY - Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King*
AA meetings take place at Calvary throughout the week. Contact the church office at 956-9377 for times and locations.
One Heart For the City Drop-Off Day
2
7:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King*
6:45pm Intercessors Prayer Meeting Wednesday Evening Adult Bible Study
7:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King* 11
12
One Heart For the City Drop-Off Day
13 6:00am Men’s Bible Studies
3:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King
14 Wednesday Fellowship 7:00pm Dinner Menu: College Life Christmas Dinner
15
16
17
7:15pm WOW (Chidlren’s Ministry): Gingerbread House Building Event
7:00pm Festival of Lights: The Bagman and the King Merge Book Club 18
19
20
21
11:15am Merge/FLOCK Potluck
11:30am Confident Caregivers
No Wednesday Fellowship Dinner
6:00pm LUMIN8 Christmas Musical
Third Monday Missionary Prayer
No WOW (Children’s), Refuge (5th/6th), Oasis (7th/8th)
25 26 Family Service (Nursery: Church Offices Closed Birth-35 months only) - Worship Services at 9:00am & 10:45am only Limited morning classes No evening service
27
28 No Wednesday Night Programming
22 12:00pm Prayer and Fasting for the Unemployed
23 Church Offices Closed
29
24 5:00 & 10:00pm Christmas Eve Service
30
31
Church Offices Closed
Ticketed Performance
*
Welcome to calvary church We are so glad you have joined us today. If you’re here for Festival of Lights or our Children’s Christmas Musical, we hope you will come back and join us for our Sunday morning worship services at 8:10, 9:40 or 11:15*. We also invite you to join us for our special Christmas Eve service, a night that is sure to bless your whole family. (See page 5 for service times.) This is a big church, we know... but you’d be surprised at how quickly you can find your place. All over this page are ways to meet people and get involved in our church. You will find there really is something for everyone at Calvary! Jim Samra Senior Pastor
Sundays at Calvary Connection Point
Our Connection Point is a place where you can receive a warm welcome, whether this is your first time at Calvary or your sixteenth, The Connection Point is your place for information on connecting at Calvary Church. It is located in the Chapel wing of the building, on your right as you exit the Sanctuary, in room 215a.
Calvary Café
9:00am-11:15am in the Gym The Calvary Café is designed to give you the opportunity to mingle with other attendees between services. Stop in for a cup of coffee and a donut. From discussing the morning’s sermon to catching up on your community group leader’s recent vacation, the Calvary Café is a great place to gather for conversation.
Adult Sunday Classes
Find a class that’s perfect for you. There are classes for adults of all ages, stages and interests, from singles to parents to senior adults. For exact location and class descriptions, pick up a copy of the Adult Sunday Classes brochure at the Information Center or at calvarygr.org.
Special Needs
Adult (Go-Getters): 11:15am *Youth (Seekers): 11:15am *Children (Explorers): 11:15am
Note: On December 25 and January 1, our morning services are at 9:00am & 10:45am *
Need More Info?
Go to the Connection Point located through the Sanctuary doors on the right as you exit (in the Chapel wing) or stop at the Information Center at the back of the Sanctuary. Media Center: For past sermons or a series on CD, the Media Center is located through the Sanctuary doors on the left as you exit (in the Chapel wing). Children’s Activity Boxes: Located inside the Sanctuary doors by the Children’s wing. Explore Calvary This staff-led, four-week class is for people to learn more about Calvary, take a tour of the building and find out what your next steps in connecting may look like. Contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5077. Pastoral Need If you have a need and would like to speak to a pastor, please call the main church number, 956-9377 or email pastoralcare@calvarygr.org. A pastor is always available.
Chapel Room 112 Room 114
*Pre-registration recommended
Children’s Ministries
Young Fives - Fourth Grade: 9:40am and 11:15am Visit the check-in desk at Entrance K on the lower level to register. Nursery Care: 8:10am, 9:40am and 11:15am For infants birth through preschool. Visit the check-in desk at Entrance M on the upper level to register.
Student Ministries
Middle School (MSM): 9:40am 5th & 6th Main Event (Studying Genesis) 7th & 8th Main Event (Studying Genesis) High School (United): 6:00pm (Studying Genesis)
Young Adults
Merge (Singles 22-34): 11:15am Foundations (Young Couples 22-32): 11:15am College Lunch (Young Adults 18-22): 12:30pm
Room 109 Room 108 Room 108 Room 137 Room 125 Room 121
Community is a place where you belong; a place where you develop relationships with other Christians and do life together. When you experience true community, you have close friends who meet together, pray together, grow together in God’s Word, and care for one another. In community you will be loved; you will be valued; you will be transformed more into Christ’s image. If you realize it is time to engage with people in a new way and want to be a part of a community group, visit the Connection Point on Sunday mornings or sign up at calvarygr.org.