Calvary Life, December 2013

calvary life December 2013

Festival of Lights 2013 Program

CHRISTMAS at Hollington Hall

Calvary Church Festival of Lights 2013 Don your merriest apparel for an evening in a British manor house (Hollington Hall), almost a century ago, as preparations for a grand Christmas party are underway.

While the servants are decorating, and Lady Wellington is auditioning entertainment, another member of the family struggles with an emptiness that he cannot explain. With guests arriving and festivities beginning, his search for peace leads him to an unlikely friendship that opens his heart to the true joy of Christmas.

CHRISTMAS at Hollington Hall

OVERTURE “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” SCENE 1: Hollington Hall “Carols Suite” “Spirit of the Season” SCENE 2: Town Park “Top of the Morning” SCENE 3: Hollington Hall “The Spirit of Christmas” “Carol of the Bells” Scene 4: Coventry Dinner Club SCENE 5: Town Park “O to Be Loved” SCENE 6A: Hollington Hall “Star So Bright” SCENE 6B: Doctor Klaus Von Ziegler’s Office SCENE 6C: Hollington Hall “The Glorias of Christmas” Scene 7: Doctor’s Office “There’s No Comfort or Joy” “Distant” Scene 8: Town Park “Pick Pocket Song” SCENE 9: Hollington Hall The day of the party.

“Catch Me If You Can” “Who Would Imagine a King?”

SCENE 10: Town Park Scene 11: Hollington Hall – The party “Sing We Now of Christmas” “Hope is Born Again” “The Hallelujah Chorus” “Reprise- Spirit of the Season”

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.

December 6-8, 13-15 3:00 & 7:00pm Tickets: $7 | startickets.com Still need tickets? Festival of Lights performances are December 6, 7, 8 and 13, 14, 15, Fridays at 7:00pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00pm and 7:00pm. Tickets are $7 and are available at startickets.com, 1-800-585-3737, and at our reception desk, Tuesdays through Fridays, 8:30am to 5:00pm.

Welcome On behalf of Calvary Church, let me say how glad I am that you have joined us as we present, “Christmas at Hollington Hall.” 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, we hope you will take minute to read through the next couple pages.

We have also included questions you may be pondering and stories highlighting what it means to put your faith in Jesus Christ and live life with God. I especially hope that you will read the note from our Assistant Director of Evangelism and Discipleship, Jake Boerman, on page 5.

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 it can come to feel like home. 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 Christians are people who go to church and think that they are better than everyone else. However, none of these answers tell the whole story.

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?

Christians are people who recognize their shortcomings. People who know that they are not perfect and understand that on their own they cannot make it. So, they choose a different path. Ultimately Christians are people who in faith believe 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 Calvary’s Associate Director of Evangelism, Jake Boerman (jboerman@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5165, 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. Wherever you are today, Christ wants to meet you there. As a church family, we hope you will take a moment this season to answer His call.

moving from death to life

By Jake Boerman, Assistant Director, Evangelism & Discipleship jboerman@calvarygr.org | 956-9377, ext. 5165 Have you ever been in a crowd of people and felt alone? Of the many different emotions we experience in life, the pain of loneliness can be one of the hardest to cope with. On the surface, the logical solution to this problem is to surround ourselves with people. But what do you do when you are surrounded by the friends who know you intimately — by the family who love you no matter what — and you still feel alone?

I can look back at several times in my life when I have felt this pain. From an outside perspective, my life looked normal, happy even. I had a girlfriend and lots of friends, I saw my family on a regular basis and yet I still felt terribly alone.

I couldn’t escape the loneliness. These relationships served as a temporary distraction, but at the end of the day it felt like nobody could help me.

If people weren’t the answer, then I had to look elsewhere. I tried work, thinking, “Maybe if I just worked more, or harder, or if I got a better job…” but that didn’t satisfy. I went on to explore a host of other options including carelessly spending money on things I didn’t need… which led to debt. Over indulgence in food… which led to poor health. I filled my time with exercise because I was insecure; I went on trips to escape the monotony of my week, and pursued technology to help distract me from reality. When those didn’t work I turned to alcohol and sex. All of these things only numbed the pain. I even started going back to church, but still something was missing. I had to ask myself: “Is it possible to do more than just deal with the problems of life? Can anyone actually experience true peace and joy?”

Jesus tells us: “Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life (John 5:24).” How is it possible to go from death to life, if you are already living? Jesus is suggesting that there are two different lives: a physical life and a spiritual life. This means that though we can be completely alive physically, at the same time we can be dead spiritually. This spiritual death shows up in our lives as discontentment, loneliness, hopelessness, despair and chaos.

In another story in the Bible, Jesus claims to be God, telling those around him, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10).” Again, why would He offer life to a bunch of people who were already living?

Jesus is telling us that he came that YOU may have life, and that you can have it the way God intended: free from striving, free from guilt and shame, free from comparing it to others. It is an abundant life filled with peace and contentment.

Jesus also tells us how to address the problem of this spiritual lack of life. He tells us, “Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it (Matthew 16:25).” He is talking about our desire to live life on our own terms. He tells us that regardless of what we say we believe about Him, until we give up control of our lives and surrender to Him, our lives will end up being lost. As long as we insist on being in the driver’s seat, picking and choosing how to run our own lives, we will continue on a path that is far from Him. And that path leads to the dissatisfaction we often experience.

Jesus is offering this new life to you right now. Turn from your own way of life and receive the life He is offering. Ask Him to forgive you for living your life on your own terms and accept His gift of forgiveness and the new life He has for you.

In the Christmas celebration of modern Americans, there is a lot going on! Choosing and giving gifts to others, spending extra time with family and friends, creating special holiday goodies to share … all of these are good things. And yet, with so much happening, it is easy to become distracted from the heart of Christmas: the mystery of the incarnation.

The observation of the season of Advent creates a wonderful opportunity to regain that focus.

When we observe Advent, we are looking to Christ with great expectation in three ways: 1) We read the promises of Christ’s birth, and wait expectantly with His people for His coming (which we celebrate at Christmas).

2) We read the promises for God’s presence in our lives, and we live in the confidence that this provides.

3) We read the promises of Christ’s second coming, and we live in the hope of His final victory over sin and death.

2013 Advent guides will be available beginning Sunday, November 24 for individuals and families to pick up at the Information Center at the back of the sanctuary. Our intention for this guide is not to create “one more thing” for you or your family to add to a long list of things to do this holiday season. Instead, we hope for it to be a time of respite, a time to be mindful of Christ, a time to look expectantly for His presence in our lives and to look forward to His imminent return.

Tuesday, December 24 Three Services: 5:00, 7:30 & 10:00pm 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.

LUMIN8 CHILDREN’S CHOIR CHRISTMAS MUSICAL Sunday | December 22 | 6:00pm We invite you to celebrate with LUMIN8 Children’s Choir as they proclaim the birth of Jesus in this years musical “A Rockin’ Royal Christmas.” The 150-voice choir will tell the story of how King Herod sends Sherlock and Watson to find out why the wise men from the East didn’t return to him.

We discover, along with Sherlock, that Jesus is the King of kings! We also learn that if we believe in Him, we have a higher calling than to any earthly king.

Performance will be Sunday, December 22 at 6:00pm in the Sanctuary. Join us afterwards in the Fellowship Hall for refreshments.

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contents Festival of Lights program 2 | Synopsis and Scene Guide 4 | What is a Christian

If you are pondering questions about faith and Jesus Christ, this is the place to start.

5 | Moving From Death to Life

Calvary’s Assistant Director of Evangelism shares hope for those facing loneliness and pain this season.

6 | Advent

Advent is an opportunity to slow down and regain focus this Christmas.

Plus...

Details on Calvary’s Christmas Eve services and the Children’s Choir Christmas Musical are also included in our special Festival of Lights section.

Features

11 | Community Group Launch - January 26

Life{Together}

10 | Making More Than Just a Joyful Noise Calvary’s Choir is bonded by more than just music.

Discover how they truly care for another like family.

12 | Monday Night Bible Study

This winter MNBS is digging into the book of James and putting their faith in action. It’s a perfect time to join this dynamic Bible Study.

Plus...

Calvary’s Special Needs Ministry shares how one family found the perfect place just for their family in Calvary Church and we have an opportunity for those who are new to Explore Calvary this January.

Missions & Outreach

14 | SHARE! Open Door Missions Project 2013

The Missions & Outreach team shares a Q&A to help you learn more about this year’s Open Door Project.

Leadership

Looking for a place where you can build caring relationships and experience God’s love in community?

Join us for our next group launch.

17 | A Note From the Elders

16 | New Parking Shuttle for Senior Adults

Program guide

As the winter weather begins in earnest, we’ve set up a new parking shuttle to help senior adults navigate the parking lot with ease.

18 | Bible Study Opportunities for Women

Whether you’re looking for a one-morning workshop or an in-depth study to carry you to summer, there’s something for every woman this winter.

Staff Connection

This month the elders are grateful for outgoing leaders and welcoming new residents to the church staff.

20-26 | Your One Stop Shop for All the Details on Activities at Calvary Church 26 | On the Bookshelf

Recommended reading (and viewing!) for December from the Calvary Library.

27 | December Calendar

Tear it out and pin it to your fridge.

9 | Currently with Mike Looney

Get to know a bit about one of Calvary’s newest staff members, our programming coordinator for Senior Adult and Pastoral Care.

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Calvary Church Phone: (616) 956-9377 Address: 707 E Beltline NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525

save the date

currently

with mike looney, program coordinator, senior adults & pastoral care

coming in 2014

Rewire: Living faithfully in a technological world

february 16-march 16 | 6:00pm | Sanctuary Don’t miss this timely and important Sunday evening series from Pastor Jim Samra.

march madness Family Event March 20-21 | Calvary gym

Watch as much or as little as you can handle of the second round action of March Madness in a fun, family-friendly environment. Enjoy games for kids and great food!

missions Weekend March 22-23

Learn about what God is doing around the world and right here in our own community in missions. Our special guest will be Dr. Len Bartlotti, who brings 14 years experience of living and ministering in Pakistan and Afghanistan to the question: “Where me, Lord?”

easter Week services

Palm sunday: april 13 | 8:10am, 9:40am, 11:15am Maundy thursday: april 17 | 7:00pm Good Friday: april 18 | 7:00pm Easter: april 20 | 8:10am, 9:40am, 11:15am* Service times may be adjusted as the date draws closer. Please refer to calvarygr.org for exact times.

*

All church food drive Sunday, may 11

Plan ahead and start setting aside some non-perishable food for Calvary’s Food Pantry.

Men’s conference Saturday, may 17

Don’t miss Unlocking the Man Code featuring keynote speaker, Dennis Swanberg.

csI: Creative Science investigators june 10-12 | Calvary Church

This year’s theme is plants, birds of prey and electricity. Children kindergarten through fourth grade gather at Calvary for three days of crazy, science-focused fun.

Watching… my five grandchildren, growing like weeds right in front of me. drinking… anything with caffeine.

Calvary’s seniors have much more energy than I do. signing up… for absolutely nothing.

My ministry here at Calvary has me reevaluating my extracurricular activities. teaching… computer classes to senior adults. So, what is a gigabyte? wearing… lots of jeans and sweatshirts. eating… way too much. Calvary’s seniors always offer something to enjoy at every meeting and activity. enjoying… every minute I get to spend quality time with my wife Mariann. thrilled… to know I’m exactly where God wants me to be at this moment in time. excited… about what God is doing in Calvary’s Senior Ministries and Pastoral Care. reading… 101 Hymn Stories by Kenneth W. Osbeck. laughing… at myself as God and others teach me new things every day. feeling… loved and appreciated by those God is allowing me to serve. believing… God has things in store for me that I can’t even imagine. loving… life and the family who surrounds and encourages me every day. mike is one of Calvary’s

newest employees. He spends the majority of his time overseeing and orchestrate all aspects of Senior’s Ministry programing.

He is also responsible for special projects associated with the Pastoral Care Ministry.

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life{together} experiencing community at calvary

Calvary’s choir makes more than just a joyful noise For the members of the Calvary Choir, whose voices are featured prominently in our annual Festival of Lights production, the purpose for gathering goes beyond the music they make together.

The music is a ministry, it’s not a performance; it’s worship with eternal significance. And when they practice, they don’t merely gather as acquaintances but as family. This sense of family is never seen more fully than when one of their members is in need. In this special Festival of Lights themed issue we thought it would be meaningful to highlight the caring community that is our church choir.

Receiving Care Linda Hamlet writes, “Chronic illness can be lonely.

Being hospitalized several times a year is difficult but having a church family like we do at Calvary, has made my walk so much easier. I know I can count on many to come alongside us during the toughest of times. Not only does the care that my choir family give me through cards, flowers, calls, visits and meals make it easier, but I know that there is a group who are praying for me constantly. That is the best security blanket I could ever have. I could tell countless stories of God working through prayer to keep me alive and to keep me from discouragement.

Along with all that, the music that we sing week after week has become a part of me. Often, when in really intense pain, God will put a song on my mind that ministers to me right at that very moment. Music is the way God feeds my soul and I find myself in the deepest form of worship. I am thankful for God giving me the joy and the honor of being a part of the Calvary Choir!”

Bob Winters shares, “I have been singing in the Calvary Choir for about seven years. On many occasions I have prayed for general and specific issues for many of our members. I have felt the strength and power of those prayers flowing out to those in need. Recently I was hospitalized with a life-threatening illness and found myself on the receiving end of those same prayer warriors. I can now say that I have felt the healing power of our

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Lord Jesus through the faith and strength of our Choir family.

The strength and power of our choir family was never more evident than when they sang Hope in the Night (over the phone) as Cherie and I lay in my hospital bed wrapped in our family’s love.

Providing Care Lynne Bass speaks of the Choir as a family, noting, “We’re a large group and because of that it would be easy for people to just look the other way when there is someone in need... but in our ‘family,’ we have seen time and again the sacrificial giving that only comes from God. From folks who work full-time and still bring a meal, to those whose finances are tight but still send a card, give a hug or take the time to call and offer words of encouragement.

As we spend time each week getting ready to help lead the congregation in singing praises to God, we continue to grow in grace, mercy and love for each other. We can always count on our ‘family’ to step up to the plate and meet each others needs.”

Bob Bass writes, “One of the many cool things that the choir has done is to coordinate phone calls to the hospital rooms for a few choir members who appeared to be in their final days here on earth. We make arrangements to call their hospital room midway through our choir rehearsal on Wednesdays and always find there is always an appropriate message in the song that fits the patient’s specific situation. Recently, we have been able to witness two miracles of recovery in situations just like this!”

Maybe Choir is the Community for you Choir Director Mark Welling invites you to join this community, noting, “We’re not perfect, but we continually strive to refine what we do to meet the needs of our people. If you’re looking to experience true community with people who don’t just share your interests but love you like a member of their family, consider joining us in the Choir! Contact me (mwelling@calvarygr.org) at ext.

5154 for details.”

COMMUNITY GROUP LAUNCH sunday, january 26 | 4:00pm Register by January 20

Our goal at Calvary is to see every believer experiencing authentic Christian community. A Community Group is a great place to build caring relationships; join us! New groups will be forming on January 26 at our Community Group Launch. We would love for you to experience community here at Calvary Church.

To join one of the new groups, plan to attend the launch on January 26 and complete a registration form located at the Connection Point, on the web at MyCalvaryGR.org, or contact Brenda Neher (community@calvarygr.org) at 956-9377, ext. 5650.

Please register by January 20.

LIFE {TOGETHER}

experience community at calvary

Group Details These groups gather in homes to study God’s word, fellowship together, care for one another and grow in the Lord together. You will be asked to commit to meet at least 8 times (most groups meet every other week).

If you are unable to join us on January 26, you can still be part of a group. Just fill out a registration form by January 20 to be placed in a new group.

If you are interested in facilitating a group or hosting one in your home, please contact our office for more information. You’ll be surprised how easy it is. Contact Brenda Neher (community@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5650 with any questions.

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Calvary Church Monday Night Bible Study

FAI TH

Who We Are Monday Night Bible Study is a place where men and women of all ages meet weekly throughout the school year to study God’s Word, for prayer and for fellowship. We begin at 7:00pm and end around 8:35pm.

The evening begins with men and women meeting in separate small groups to discuss the week’s lesson and pray for one another. The evening concludes with everyone in the Chapel where our teacher, Ed Kaleefey, will share insights from the lesson.

An $8 suggested donation per semester is appreciated to cover materials. Join us.

What We’re Studying For our Winter/Spring Semester, January 6 – April 7, we will be studying the book of James. The book of James has been called “the Proverbs of the New Testament.” It’s a book where you are called to “put your faith into action.” James teaches us joyful endurance in times of trial, true wisdom, recognizing and resisting temptation in a tempting world, perils of the tongue, humility and grace and how to go beyond knowing the Word of God to actively living out our faith.

Explore Calvary

How to Join No pre-registration is necessary and new members are always welcome throughout the year.

Sorry, no childcare is available.

New members register in the following rooms: • Women in room 114 • Men register in room 211A

Questions For more information, or if you have any questions, contact: • Women: Carol Spencer at 942-4743 • Men: Dave Thrasher at 243-6603

Are you new to Calvary?

Are you finding it hard to navigate or get plugged in? Journey together with us for three weeks: Wednesdays, January 8, 15 and 22, in room 126, 5:15-6:30pm. We’ll enjoy gathering in an informal setting to meet others new to Calvary, share a meal together, meet staff, and learn more about Calvary. Feel free to jump in at any time. The classes repeat periodically throughout the year.

RSVP to Elaine Lohroff (elohroff@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5903.

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life{together} meet the mallick Family!

by Liz Thelen

The Mallick family has attended Calvary for three years and have experienced the great blessing of a caring church family as they get involved in ministries around the church. Their son, Joash, is a student in the Explorers Special Needs Ministry class and their daughter, Riana, attends Calvary’s 5th/6th Middle School Ministry. Shipra and Swapan are part of Heirs Together on Sunday mornings.

The Mallick family is originally from Bangladesh, and came to the US five years ago to provide better education, opportunities and safety for their children.

Bangladesh is steeped in Muslim and Hindu practices, but both Shipra and Swapan were fortunate to grow up and attend Christian schools, Awana clubs, camps and Sunday schools, even though their parents were practicing Hindus. After their parents became Christians, both Shipra and Swapan decided to be baptized and to live lives dedicated to Christ. They met during youth group and were married after college.

Swapan and Shipra then applied for a diversity visa and were chosen to go to the US by their government.

They both truly believe this was a blessing that God provided. When the Mallicks arrived in America, they attended another church, but found it was difficult to get their son to calm down enough for worship and to sit through a service. They weren’t able to fully worship the way they knew they wanted.

Through friends, Wayne and Gretchen Neely, the Mallicks began to attend Calvary and have been worshiping here ever since.

The entire family has expressed a great sense of gratitude for Calvary’s caring atmosphere, and especially the Special Needs Ministry where Joash receives care and biblical teaching, so that the rest of the family is able to worship in service and at Sunday school classes. They have seen the beauty and love that Christ shows through the community of believers to help in uncertain and confusing times.

They know that God has led them here to Calvary and praise Him for it.

Shipra would like to end with these words, “I am really thankful that God showed us the perfect place to worship and I strongly suggest to come and spend time with God and see Him through the services and teachings. We are really blessed by Calvary and the people are so friendly. It only takes a few people to help get connected to this bigger church and I am proud to say I attend Calvary Church.”

For more information about the Special Needs Ministry at Calvary, contact Judi Warner (jwarner@calvarygr.org) at 956-9377, ext. 5272.

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What yOu can DO Pray for the Central Asian and local partners we are supporting this year (visit odp.calvarygr.org for details).

Consider sharing a financial contribution to support our 2013-2014 Open Door Project. Just write ODP on your envelope or check and put it in the offering plate on Sunday. Details about giving online are available at odp.calvarygr.org Remove an ornament from one of the Missions trees and return the recorded unwrapped gift to the boxes in the Calvary CafĂŠ by December 1 to share with the Urban Family Ministry Christmas store.

Open DOOr missiOns prOject 2013

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Q&A about the Open Door Project Our yearly Open Door Project (ODP) launched in November. This year, our global focus is on Central Asia, with a commitment to sharing God’s Word through partnerships with Bible translators, and video and online application makers. Our local focus has the same commitment with sharing God’s word, specifically this year with truck drivers and children. There is lots of information about all of our partners on the web, at odp.calvarygr.org. If you have any questions, contact us in Missions (ext.

5022) at missions@calvarygr.org.

share

1. What is the Open Door Project?

Years ago, when Calvary built the gym addition, a generous member helped pay it off. The only stipulation was that the funds which would have gone to paying the debt be used instead for missions – locally and globally. Over the years, as Calvary has delighted to honor this request, we have contributed to projects throughout the world and right in our own backyard.

2. Why was the name changed from Open Door Vision (ODV) to Open Door Project (ODP)?

Many newcomers to Calvary don’t easily recognize the name Open Door Vision. The word “project” has been chosen to help signify that we can come together as a church to bless and help our partners with a significant financial gift.

3. How are the Open Door Project partners chosen?

Each year, the Missions and Outreach department prayerfully seeks God’s leading toward a set of partners and projects. Each agency organization meets our requirements for financial accountability, a proven track record and an intentional Gospel focus. Once a plan has been proposed, Calvary’s Elders and Deacons must approve it.

4. Why give to the Open Door Project?

There are many reasons! Some of the most common that people have shared are: • It’s an opportunity for all of our smaller gifts to make a big difference.

• It’s a good year-end chance to reach out with a real Gospel focus.

• They feel they can trust the partners that Calvary’s leaders have prayed over and approved.

5. I want to make a financial donation. Do I have to give before January 1?

Absolutely not! Our Open Door Project will be available until August 1, 2014.

6. Where is Central Asia?

“Central Asia” is most often used to refer to the five “stan” countries of the former Soviet Union: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Sometimes you will hear the name used more broadly to include parts of Western China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and parts of Southern Russia. This is because some of the people groups that live in those areas are very similar in culture and language to those in the core of Central Asia.

7. What is Calvary’s history with outreach in Central Asia?

Calvary has had a heart for Central Asia since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. Starting with the Uzbek people and growing from there, we have sent shortterm teams and partnered with various agencies and workers to reach Muslim people groups – many of whom no one had ever heard of just 25 years ago. We praise God that he has built, and continues to build, His church in that region, and that we have the privilege to be part of that work.

8. What is an Unreached People Group?

Christ. With so few believers, it would be difficult for them to reach out in a way so that every person within the group has a chance to hear the Gospel.

9. What does a sign language Bible look like?

It looks like . . . a stack of video CDs! Or maybe a weblink to videos of the words of Scripture being signed. You can see an example at http://deafbibles.com/languagehome/?door_lang=asl.

10. How is God using media to reach people today?

Years ago, worldwide radio broadcasts of Christian truths set the stage for the use of media in outreach. You may remember Trans World Radio or HCJB in South America. While these are still active, today’s generation gets more of its information from television, DVDs or especially websites.

Smart phones have brought the world to some of the most remote areas imaginable, and people everywhere are increasingly seeking spiritual truth online. Our partner agencies are prayerfully seeking to use this for God’s glory and to bring a message of hope to the lost.

One particular time that media can be helpful is for believers in areas of persecution.

When even possession of a Bible can cause an arrest or other problems, media files with helpful Christian literature are easier to keep secure

Missiologists refer to a people group, an ethnic or linguistic group within a distinct geographical area, as unreached if less than 2% of the population are followers of

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New parking shuttle for senior adults Do you avoid church in the winter because you worry about potentially icy sidewalks and snow-covered parking spots?

Beginning in late December, Calvary is excited to introduce a new parking shuttle that we hope will alleviate such concerns for our senior adult attendees.

This new easily-accessible shuttle van will begin 30 minutes prior to the 8:10am service, then run from 9:15-9:45am, and following the 9:40am service for 30 minutes as well (10:50-11:20am). It will take attendees parked in the lot adjacent to Bradford Street (see map below) to Entrance N (located between the Nursery and the Sanctuary). From Entrance N you are just a short walk into the Sanctuary or onto the elevator to Fellowship Hall.

It is our sincere hope that this new shuttle will make it easier for our older attendees to worship with us throughout the winter months.

We appreciate your patience as we begin this service. Look for further details in the Sunday morning bulletin and at calvarygr.org.

Shuttle Pick-up Area

Shuttle Drop-off

16 | December 2013 | calvarygr.org

2013-2014 Elders

A Note from the elders Gratitude: This month five new elders begin serving their terms and four elders are completing their three years of faithful service.

We praise God for outgoing elder chair Jim DeVries, who personified servant leadership as chairman. We will also miss the humility and wisdom of Noe Palacios, Eric Cerling and Mike Still. Thank you, men, for the countless hours you spent praying, listening, obeying, encouraging, teaching, corresponding, studying, deciding, persevering and rejoicing. May God bless you as He leads you into your next areas of service.

Please join us in praying for incoming elders Bill Azkoul, Dane Bjork, Steve Doren, Chad Kerr and Tom Thurston. Ask God to give these men wisdom and discernment, and to equip them to help carry out His plans for Calvary Church. Pray for their families, that they would be protected from evil and blessed for the sacrifices they will need to make. Pray that the spirit of unity God has given to the church leadership would remain and even grow in the coming years. Thank you for praying!

Residents: The Pastoral Resident program exists to help train individuals who desire to grow in Godliness and Christ-like character as they consider a vocation in ministry. There are currently five individuals serving as Pastoral Residents at Calvary Church. The elders have been thrilled to listen to their testimonies and to pray over each of them. Each is a person of integrity, uniquely gifted to serve the body of Christ. You have likely seen and heard Andy Crowder as he leads worship on Sundays, and maybe Lee Bergakker as he leads our 5th and 6th grade ministry. Perhaps you have seen but not had a chance to meet Ardo Draper, Eric Lapata or Vida Wilson. Each one of them is a beautiful testimony of God’s saving grace. Join us in praying regularly for our Pastoral Residents.

If you have any questions or comments you would like to share with an elder, their individual contact information is listed below.

Bill Azkoul

(bazkoul@calvarygr.org)

Dan Challa

(dchalla@calvarygr.org)

Dick Doyle

(ddoyle@calvarygr.org)

Sam Roth

(sroth@calvarygr.org)

Tom Thurston

(tthurston@calvarygr.org)

Dennis Bergakker

(dbergakker@calvarygr.org)

Clare DeGraaf

(cdegraaf@calvarygr.org)

Chad Kerr

(ckerr@calvarygr.org)

Kent Snoeyink

(ksnoeyink@calvarygr.org)

Dane Bjork

(dbjork@calvarygr.org)

Steve Doren

(sdoren@calvarygr.org)

Ross Pettinga

(rpettinga@calvarygr.org)

Vernon Spears

(vspears@calvarygr.org)

Allen VanHaitsma

(avanhaitsma@calvarygr.org)

Building Concepts: The elders have spent several years praying about and investigating potential solutions to the challenges at Calvary of having many people in a limited space. We have committed to the Lord that we will do something to improve at least the Children’s area and Youth space, and that we will implement a Prayer Garden. This month the elders will receive a report from architect Doug Pasma, who plans to share revised conceptual drawings. Please pray for wisdom as we seek to obey God as good stewards of our property.

Prayer: On the first Tuesday of every month the elders spend time praying with people for healing in accordance with the instructions in James 5. You are welcome to come for prayer as well. Often the requests are for physical healing, but God heals people emotionally, relationally, spirtitually…in whatever way He chooses. If you plan to come, please let Cindy Marrell know: cmarrell@calvarygr.org. Cindy graciously volunteers to arrange the schedule for the first Tuesday prayer times.

December 2013 | calvarygr.org | 17

s ’ n e om

W istry n i M s p ho rks

wo

Tuesday, January 7 | 9:15 – 11:15 am

Take a morning at the start of the new year to dig deep into a topic of your interest with one of the following workshops.

Anyone is invited to participate. Our Gathering Place Tuesday Morning Women’s BIble Study will begin again on January 14.

Lifestyle Mentoring – Margie Brady (Shepherd Leader for GPS) Do you have a heart to impact women around you? Mentoring is about passing on the story of your life, with God as the central character.

The story is not over. Each of us has a chapter to contribute, and more important, to pass on. Margie will inspire you in these lifestyle opportunities as well as give practical tips for being an effective mentor.

Praying Like Paul – Pat Cebulski (Apples of Gold coordinator) Want to learn to pray in ways that transform your life and the lives of others? Pat will lead you in a discussion on this powerful little book, Praying Like Paul, by Jonathan Graf. Each chapter studies what Paul prayed, then provides practical help in showing the reader how to pray those kingdom principles for others. You will be moved to pray beyond the obvious to things God wants to do in situations to mature people into deeper faith. (Please read the book ahead of time. Some copies will be available at the GPS information table and in our office.)

Inductive Bible Study Tools – Nancy Rowan (GPS Inductive Study Leader) Do you struggle in your study of the Bible? Effective Bible study requires a method…a strategy…a plan of attack that will yield maximum result for your investment of time and effort. Nancy will give you the tools of inductive study to help you more effectively study the Word of God. There is no joy comparable to that which comes from first-hand study of the Scripture!

Register online at MyCalvaryGR.org. If you have questions please contact our office (women@calvarygr.org) at 956-9377, ext. 5186.

Start the new year in the word!

Every year you resolve to spend more time in the Bible, 2014 is the year you’re going to keep that resolution. Join a Women’s Bible Study this January.

something for every woman Tuesday Morning - 9:00-11:15am Gathering place women’s bible study

The Gathering Place Study (GPS) connects women to Jesus and each other by creating a warm, loving atmosphere for growth in God’s Word, prayer, worship and community. We invite you to join us.

This year’s focus is Peter and the Power of a Transformed Life. We are exploring Acts 1-12, 1 Peter and 2 Peter to discover how to be steadfast and persevere in the true grace of God. On Tuesday mornings, women gather at 9:00am in the Fellowship Hall. Within the large group meeting we have quality time to catch up with friends and make new ones, be inspired by thought-provoking speakers, drama, music and testimonies. We then break into small groups where we will actively discuss and study God’s Word until 11:15am.

While mom is in the Gathering Place Study, our free GPS Kids program is a wonderful place for children birth to six years of age to learn God’s truth in a loving atmosphere. While the “big” GPS is studying “Peter and the Power of a Transformed Life” our little ones will learn about Peter too as they journey through the Gospels and the early church!

Teachers and helpers use Bible stories, music and fun activities to reinforce the weekly lesson. For our older children, values, character building and the wordless book are also part of the morning.

NO need to register just show up.

Tuesday Evening - 6:30-8:00pm

Calvary’s Women’s Ministry will offer two 8-week studies over the course of Tuesday evenings in the year ahead. The next session begins January 14, with Living Like You Belong to God. In this rich study, you will discover that holiness is not an arbitrary standard within today’s church or an unreachable goal of sinless perfection. Holiness is about pleasing God--living in such a way that it’s clear you belong to Him. Holiness is what makes you unique as a believer in Jesus Christ.

s ’ n e om

W istry n i M Bible Study Opportunities

All Tuesday evening Bible studies are inductive, no homework studies

by Precept Ministries. Each session is designed for women whose schedules don’t allow them to attend our Tuesday morning Gathering Place Study and still want to dig into God’s Word with other women.

The cost for each study is $10 and you will receive your book the first night. Living Like You Belong to God runs from January 14 - March 4.

The following 8-week study will begin on March 18, with Discovering What the Future Holds.

Register online at MyCalvaryGR.org

December 2013 | calvarygr.org | 19

calvary church

Program GUIDE Quick Connect

administrative staff information in alpha order by ministry

Benevolence

Lynnell Bok lbok@calvarygr.org ext. 3510

Calvary Community Brenda Neher community @calvarygr.org ext. 5650

Missions

Chris DeHaan missions @calvarygr.org ext. 5022

Pastoral Care & Senior Adults

Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672

Children

Carla Boon-Julien childrensministry@ calvarygr.org ext. 5067

Serving

Community Outreach

Special Needs

Sharon Kaiser skaiser@calvarygr.org ext. 5077

Elaine Lohroff elohroff@calvarygr.org ext. 5903

Judi Warner jwarner @calvarygr.org ext. 5272

Compassion Ministries

Students

Facilities

Technical Services

Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618

Melissa DeBoer mdeboer@calvarygr.org ext. 5097

Library

library@calvarygr.org ext. 5290

Natalie Uecker calvarystudents @calvarygr.org ext. 5181

media@calvarygr.org ext. 5150

Women

Donna Ross dross@calvarygr.org ext. 5186

Marketing

Jackie Rice jrice@calvarygr.org ext. 5042

Worship

Kristen White kwhite@calvarygr.org ext. 5013

Men

Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618

Young Adults Natalie Uecker youngadults @calvarygr.org ext. 5181

Phone: (616) 956-9377 Address: 707 E Beltline NE Grand Rapids MI 49525

20 | December 2013 | calvarygr.org

Sunday Morning Worship Service 8:10, 9:40, & 11:15am - Sanctuary Sunday Evening Worship Service 6:00pm - Chapel

December 2013 Church Office Hours Monday-Friday: 8:30am-5:00pm Sunday: 7:30am-12:30pm (Receptionist Only)

Wednesday fellowship dinner Dinner is served from 5:00-6:30pm in the Fellowship Hall. Please note the new 2013-14 pricing structure for Wednesday Fellowship Dinner (WFD)— all meals are $4 per person* with a family cap of $20.

WFD Dinner: Main entrée of the night with sides, roll and salad bar.

Youngster’s Buffet (Ages 16 and under): Choice of one entrée and three sides or two entrées and one side.

• Entrée Choices: pizza slice, hot dog, ham & turkey wrap, Chef ’s Choice entrée • Side Choices: mac n’ cheese, apple wedges, baby carrots, applesauce, chips, 2% milk, orange juice Both the WFD meal and the Youngster’s Buffet include bottomless drinks from our beverage station as well as an ice cream cup.

If you are having trouble paying for your meals please ask to see Chef Kevin.

*

December 4 - Stewed Chicken & Biscuits • New Menu Item Alert! Creamy chicken and veggie pot pie filling over top a split buttermilk biscuit.

• Mashed potatoes (with or without the pot pie filling) • Kid’s Bonus Entreé: Grilled Cheese Sandwich December 11 - A Little Taste of Italy • Pasta Night – rotini noodles with your choice of a creamy alfredo sauce or a hearty, meaty marinara sauce • Grilled Italian-style veggies • Garlic bread • Kid’s Bonus Entreé: Pasta with Marinara Sauce December 18 - Just Like Sunday Dinner • Oven Pot Roast – slow-roasted roast beef served with traditional sides • New potatoes • Carrots • Pan gravy made fresh from the drippings • Kid’s Bonus Entreé: Breaded Chicken Tenders

This Christmas season, we invite you in from the cold for a night of good food served and enjoyed with good friends. We are here every Wednesday night serving home cooked food with our ever expanding original recipes. As always, do contact us ahead of time if you have any special dietary concerns that we could accommodate for you.

Kevin Troupe, Director of Culinary Services & Special Events and the rest of the Wednesday Night crew

Children Carla | ext. 5067 childrensministry@calvarygr.org KIDS-N-Action Wednesdays | 6:30-7:50pm

Our desire in KIDS-N-ACTION is that children, five-years-old through fourth grade, understand what God says in the Bible, believe it, and obey it in their daily lives. KIDS-N-ACTION is designed to foster social interaction through chosen electives, while facilitating spiritual growth in learning from the book of James how to “put your faith into action.”

KIDS-N-Action: Gingerbread nativity night December 18 | 7:15pm | Fellowship Hall

Kids-N-Action will end early for this event. Please plan to pick up all of your children at 7:15pm (including nursery and preschool ages), and then join us in Fellowship Hall where we will be building gingerbread nativities!

Help us prepare for this event by donating something from the list below. Drop off donations in the treasure chests at the Entrance K or M by Wednesday, December 11. List: Nabisco™ graham crackers, large gumdrops, Pillsbury™ or Betty Crocker™ chocolate frosting, fun-size 3 Musketeer’s™ candy bars.

Because of the various food allergies in our ministry, we are requesting specific brand name items.

Li’l KIDS-N-ACTION

Three and four-year-olds can join us for Lil’Kids-N-Action. They will learn portions of James chapter 5, as they hear stories of kids in the Bible who demonstrated faith-in-action!

Note: There is no LUMIN8 or Kids-N-Action on Wednesday, December 25.

Family Service Sundays

December 1, 22 and 29 are all family service Sundays. On these dates, nursery will be available for infants through two-year-olds; children preschool age and older are encouraged to attend the service with their family (activity boxes are available at the desk near Entrance N). A family worship room is also avail-

able in room 251 where families with preschool or special needs children may be more comfortable. If needed, Room 254 is open for children ages three through five.

Christmas colors and get ready to sing Christmas carols & play bingo! There is no cost for this event, just show up! (Parent-signed year-long release form needed on file to participate.)

5th-8th Grade Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org

5th/6th Grade Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org

The Main Event Sunday Mornings | 9:40am 5th/6th: Room 109 | 7th/8th: Room 108

Refuge Wednesdays | 6:30pm | Room 109

The Main Event is a time of worship and teaching just for middle school students. Connect with others your age and learn what the Bible has to say to you. No need to register, just show up!

Note: There is no Main Event on Sundays, December 1, 22 or 29.

Cinema Sunday December 15 | 9:40am 5th/6th: Room 109 | 7th/8th: Room 108 For this special Main Event, we will be watching a Christmas movie.

ProjectSERVE! December 14 | 1:45-3:30pm | Entrance J

Christmas can be a lonely times of year for some. This is a time for us as a group to turn the focus away from us and our fun and focus on the needs of others. We will spend some time with senior citizens at a nursing home (Pilgrim Manor) singing carols and just offering friendship to some lonely people. You’ll be amazed at how fun and fulfilling this will be. Ultimately Christmas isn’t about us; it’s about serving God by serving others. This is a great opportunity to live that out. Wear festive

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, just show up!

Note: There is no Refuge on Wednesday, December 25.

Refuge Christmas Party December 18 | 6:30pm | Room 109

Join us for Beards on the Bayou. More details to come.

7th/8th Grade Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org Oasis Wednesdays | 6:30pm | Room 108

Oasis is our Wednesday night small group program. Want to go deeper asking specific questions about topics that concern you? Are you bored on Wednesday nights, want to hang out with friends, or simply don’t feel connected? Whatever your reason in

December 2013 | calvarygr.org | 21

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, just show up!

Note: There is no Oasis on Wednesday, December 25.

Oasis Christmas Party December 18 | 6:30pm | Room 108

Join us for Beards on the Bayou. More details to come.

High School Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org UNITED Sundays | 6:00-8:30pm | Room 108

All High School students are welcome to join a community of students seeking to know God and live for Him. This fall, we will be studying the most important sermon ever preached—the Sermon on the Mount. Visit UNITED and worship God together in community. It’s the perfect place for students to belong at Calvary.

Note: There is no UNITED on Sundays, December 1, 22 or 29.

UNITED at FOL December 15 | 5:45-9:00pm | Room 108

Come support your UNITED friends as we enjoy this year’s Festival of Lights performance. We will meet in room 108 and walk to our seats together. Please arrive on time at 5:45pm.

Young Adults a ministry for young adults 18-34 Natalie | ext. 5181 youngadults@calvarygr.org 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.

Young Adult Worship Night December 5 | 7:00pm | Chapel

Carve out a night during this busy Christmas season to pause….and focus on the greatest gift of all – Christ.

Take the focus off you, your lists and your plans… and join us for a night of worship. Be uplifted as we spend time meditating on Scripture together. Invite your friends and have them come along for this unique Christmas event.

College a community for young adults 18-22 College Life: Christmas Edition December 12 | 7:00pm | Room 108

Need a break from the hubbub of school finals and Christmas shopping headaches? Join us for a special Christmas Edition of College Life. Come and enjoy fellowship, Christmas activities, and a hot cocoa bar as a fancy holiday makeover to the regular College Life meeting. Let’s celebrate the coming of the wonderful Christmas season.

be a christmas blessing by providing a food basket for a calvary family.

Our goal is to provide 80 baskets with special holiday treats (list at calvarygr.org) for families using the calvary Food Pantry.

Drop off at the Yellow House monday, December 2 through Friday, December 13, 8:30am – 5:00pm. baskets will be delivered on Wednesday, December 18.

Thank you for bringing Christmas cheer to those in our Calvary Community who need encouragement. Merry Christmas!

22 | December 2013 | calvarygr.org

Are you looking for a way to connect with other college students that attend Calvary on Sundays? Come enjoy a free lunch every Sunday after the third service. This is a great way to fellowship with other students and to learn about additional ways to get involved at Calvary Church.

Note: There is no College Lunch on Sundays, December 1, 22 or 29.

College Discipleship

On-Campus Discipleship Groups meet weekly for an informal time of sharing and catching-up about what is happening in our lives. Even if you aren’t taking classes, we still have a group for you!

For more information, contact Natalie (nuecker@calvarygr.org).

Merge a community for single young adults ages 22-34 Merge Sundays | 11:15am | 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. For more information contact Natalie.

Note: There is no Merge on Sundays, December 1, 22 or 29.

Foundations a community for engaged and newly Note: There is no College Life on Thursdays, married young adults ages 22-34 December 5 (due to our Young Adult Worship Night), 19 or 26.

s a m t s i r h C Baskets

College Lunch Sundays | 12:30pm | Room 121

Foundations Sundays | 11:15am | Room 130

Same ol’ name, brand new group! Foundations is a community of engaged and newly married young adults that get together to be challenged and encouraged as we focus on glorifying God through our marriages. We meet for teaching and discussion designed to give a biblical framework for making godly decisions and forming healthy lifelong habits that will help us strengthen our relationships and help us grow in Christ. Join this community as you work on building a strong and lasting foundation for your marriage.

Note: There is no Foundations on Sundays, December 1, 22 or 29.

Foundations Christmas Party December 14 | 7:30pm

questions or to register, contact Lou at ext. 3618.

ther of four, is a broker for ReMAX of Grand Rapids. He will speak to us on how he has been challenged to find balance in life through numerous personal issues and struggles. Register at MyCalvaryGR.org or contact Lou at ext. 3618 by noon on Wednesday, January 9.

Celebrate Christmas with Foundations!

Enjoy a night of games, Christmas snacks and desserts, and a “favorites things gift exchange.” Additional details available in Foundations on Sundays.

Marriage enrichment Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org

Compassion Ministries Lou | ext. 3618 ldegraaf@calvarygr.org

pastoral care Regina | ext. 3672 See the details under “Foundations” to rscovill@calvarygr.org on page 22.

DivorceCare Jan. 7 - Apr. 1 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 140 Cost: $20

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. For questions or to register, contact Lou at ext. 3618.

DC4K (DivorceCare 4 Kids) Jan. 7 - Apr. 1 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 143 Cost: $10 (Scholarships available)

Offered concurrently 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 age four.

To register your children, contact Lou (ldegraaf@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3618.

Divorce Through The Eyes of a Teen Jan. 7 - Apr. 1 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 152 Cost: $10

This ministry is designed to encourage and empower teens to deal with their feelings, fears, and emotions while experiencing the divorce or separation of their parents. It is very common for teens to experience a variety of conflicting emotions during this time. Many react with anger, withdrawal and intense pain carrying these unresolved emotions into their own futures. Because of the divorce or separation of their parents, teens find themselves in a hopeless situation they did not choose. This 12week session equips teens with the God -given tools to live a life of hope and the promise of a changed tomorrow. For

Foundations a community for young engaged and newly married couples, ages 22-34

Momentum

Join our new class for married couples in their 20s and 30s, Sundays at 11:15 in Room 207 (across from the gym).

We strive to mature in Christ together through the challenges of life, while caring and praying for each other.

Marriage Counseling

Confidential professional marriage counseling is available by contacting Regina Scovill (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672.

Marriage Prep Workshop Jan. 19 & 25 | 1-5:00pm | Yellow House

A two-week class for engaged couples to help prepare for marriage. This workshop is required in order to be married at Calvary Church. For more information, contact Lynnell (lbok@calvarygr. org) at ext. 3510

Pastoral Support

If you have a need and would like to speak to a pastor, please call the main church number, 956-9377. A pastor is always available.

Threshold

Join in community with other young married couples and new families (in their 20s and 30s) as we study God’s Word, pray, serve and grow in Christ together. Contact Brenda (bneher@calvarygr.org) for details.

Men’s Ministry Lou | ext. 3618 ldegraaf@calvarygr.org Men’s Breakfast January 11 | 8:00am | Room 129 | $5

Join us for a full, hot breakfast. Our speaker in January will be John Postma.

John, a native of Grand Rapids and fa-

Cancer Support Group

Are you or a loved one dealing with cancer? Consider attending a meeting on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, 7:00-8:30pm at the Yellow House. The goal of this group is to provide a time of sharing and support as well as prayer and encouragement from the Bible. For more information, contact Phyllis (ptackrn@yahoo.com).

Confident Caregivers January 21 | 6:30-8:00pm | Room 122

Confident Caregivers provides a time of rejuvenation and relief to those filling the roll of full or part-time caregivers for family members or friends. These gatherings allow caregivers a time of fellowship and support, spending time with others experiencing similar circumstances. The night includes fun and fellowship along with a program designed to uplift your spirits and even make you laugh from time to time will be mixed with information to assist caregivers navigate their daily routine. If you or someone you know, regardless of age, is providing care for others in need, join us. Contact Regina at ext. 3672 with questions.

GriefShare Workshop Begins Jan. 8 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 207

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.

For more information, contact Regina Scovill (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at ext.3672.

Cost is $20.

Hands of Jesus Ministry

If you need help with small projects around your home — such as painting,

December 2013 | calvarygr.org | 23

yard work, handyman repairs, cleaning, minor plumbing, electrical — please consider contacting the Hands of Jesus Ministry for assistance. Many throughout the church have offered their services to those in need of a hand around the house. For more information, contact Glenn DeMots (gdemots@comcast.net) at 454-0232, Bill Skinner (skinnerws@gmail. com) at 456-9296 or Regina at ext. 3672.

Stephen Ministry & Lay Counseling

Do you need a listening ear? Are you struggling with tough times, unemployment, personal difficulties, a spiritual crises or perhaps even an addiction?

Would you like to connect one on one with someone in an entirely confidential manner that can provide you with a listening ear to care and guide you through your struggles and spiritual crises?

Stephen Ministers are trained lay members of the Calvary Church congregation who will listen, care, encourage, provide emotional and spiritual support and help you bring Christ’s presence into focus in your life on a confidential basis. If you would like to learn more about Calvary’s Stephen Ministry and how a Stephen Minister can help you, call Regina Scovill at 956-9377.

Prayer groups

Intercessors Prayer Group Wednesdays | 6:45pm | Room 212

Open to anyone who is interested in praying for Calvary Church, its pastors, staff, volunteers, congregation and programming. For details, or to submit prayer requests, contact prayer@calvarygr. org.

Nehemiah Prayer Team

When Nehemiah heard that the walls of Jerusalem needed repair, his first response was to fast and pray for four months. As the elders and deacons continue to pray and fast for God’s vision for Calvary Church, we invite our church family to join us. If you are willing, please email Pam Tuinstra (ptuinstra@calvarygr. org), and we will add you to a regular prayer update.

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

24 | December 2013 | calvarygr.org

team as well as requests throughout the week when he needs immediate help.

Contact Kristen White (kwhite@calvarygr. org) at ext. 5013.

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.

Pray with the Elders

The elders meet for prayer from 6:157:15pm on the first Tuesday of the month in room 211. If you would like the elders to pray for you, please stop by.

You are welcome to come unannounced, but if possible it would be helpful if you could contact Cindy Marrell (cmarrell@ calvarygr.org) in advance so she can put you on the schedule. Thank you!

Pray for Festival of Lights

Those interested in praying for this year’s Festival of Lights production may pick up a prayer calendar at the Sanctuary Information Center. Thank you!

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 come pray specifically that God would bless our morning services. All are encouraged to join.

Seniors (Adults age 55+) Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org 55+ Leisure Luncheon December 2 | 10:30am | Fellowship Hall Our presentation will be conducted by physical therapist Casey Lauf. Casey will speak on balance and exercise. Punchbowl is 10:00-10:20am. Lunch is served after the program at noon. Reservations must be made one week in advance by contacting: Howard & Arlene Timmer (hrtakt@iserv.net) at 365-0728, Terry &

Linda Markham at 247-8619.

Wednesday Morning Bible Study Wednesdays | 9:30am | Chapel

On January 8, we will begin our winter bible study semester with team teaching from Pastors Aaron Bolduc and Bruce Huseby. Whether you are retired, currently unemployed, home-maker, or just enjoying Wednesdays off, don’t miss our weekly Bible study. This semester we will enjoy even more special music, more discussion, in addition to our regular time of fellowship. Enjoy coffee and cookies at 9:30am with Bible study beginning at 9:55am and ending promptly at 11:00am.

Special needs Adults Elleen | ext. 5623 efitzgerald@calvarygr.org SOS Go-Getters (Adults with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Chapel WOW Go-Getters (Adults with Special Needs) Wednesdays | 6:30pm | Chapel

Go-Getters for Jesus is a large community of youth and adults with special needs who are eager to serve God and one another.

Classes for Adults with Special Needs Wednesdays | 6:00pm

Art Class (Room 112): Artistic skill development, in a socially friendly environment, is a regular part of Wednesday evening (during the school year) for any Go-Getter student who would like to attend.

Choir (Chapel): Scripture set to music is the focus of this group of Go-Getters.

It is a way for those who cannot read to hide the word of God in their hearts.

The focus is not on singing ability.

Scripture Intake (Room 207): After a brief introduction and prayer, students listen to Scripture being read, followed by a summary and question time.

Sign Language (Room 211): The sign language class is open to the larger community of the church. There, students are taught basic communication and the use of signs to praise during worship.

Children and Youth Elizabeth | ext. 5163 ethelen@calvarygr.org Explorers (Students with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 114

Explorers provides an active, less structured environment where learning takes place using interactive centers based on 66 books of the Bible.

Seekers (Students with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 112

A calm structured environment for those who learn best with less activity.

Adapted curriculum based on the 66 books of the Bible will focus on learning about God and His love throughout His Word.

Women Donna | ext. 5186 women@calvarygr.org Exercise Class Mondays | 9:30am | Gym

Enjoy a variety of aerobics including: Tae Bo®, Zumba®, Pilates, stretching, self defense and games. Devotional offered fourth Monday from 11:00– 11:30am. Limited childcare is available, contact Women’s Ministry (women@ calvarygr.org) to reserve. For class questions, contact Angela Crompton, Certified Fitness Instructor, at 682-1584.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Thursdays (1st, 3rd & 5th) 9:00-11:15am | Room 129 MOPS Registration & Yearly Fee: $90

MOPS is an international organization that exists to encourage, equip, and help women become the best moms that they can be! Women who are pregnant or have young children (birth through kindergarten) are all invited to join MOPS. If you’re looking for encouragement, inspiration and guidance during this crazy, yet critical time of motherhood — MOPS is for you! Registration forms are available at calvarygr. org/mops, at the Sanctuary Information Center or at the Women’s Ministry bulletin board in the lower level office area.

eating and body Image Support Group

begins December 9 | 7-8:30pm | Yellow House Join this new guided discussion group, meeting on the second monday of the month, for women (18+) offering a spiritual perspective on eating and body image issues as well as prayer and support. For more information, contact Jen (mieatingdisordersalliance@gmail.com)

Teen MOPS (Teen Mothers of Preschoolers) Wednesdays (1st & 3rd) | 6:40-7:50pm Room 123 Are you a teen mom? Teens MOPS is here to come alongside you during this season of early mothering to give you the support and resources you need to be a great mom. Contact Marcy Sobczak (marcysobczak@hotmail.com) to register and receive more details.

Prayer Shawl Ministry Thursdays (2nd & 4th) | 10:00am | Room 215 If you enjoy knitting and crocheting we encourage you to join us. If you prefer to work at home, we will supply you with patterns. We also accept yarn donations.

Contact Mary Hulst (mimi1949@juno. com) with questions.

Volleyball Mondays | 6:00pm | Gym

No fee. No childcare. Injury waiver needed. Contact Pat Engels (engelspa@ aol.com) for further details.

For a complete list of women’s Bible studies and activities, see the Women’s Catalog at the Information Center or online at calvarygr.org.

Serving Opporunities

Children’s Ministry Opportunities

It’s not too late to join this exciting team in changing children’s lives for eternity!

There are opportunities to serve Sunday mornings at 11:15am and Wednesdays at Kids-N-Action, in every area of giftedness - in the classroom, or behind the scenes. Contact childrensministry@ calvarygr.org or ext. 5053.

Hands of Jesus Ministry

Workers needed! Be a blessing! Be blessed! Hands of Jesus, a ministry of Calvary Church, is looking for more good women and men, particularly with handy-person, electrical, plumbing, and furniture moving skills. Interested or curious? Call Glenn DeMots at 454-0232 for more info. Hands of Jesus service types are: Electrical repair, painting, plumbing, yard work, cleaning, meal preparation and delivery, furniture moving, transportation, respite care, and carpentry.

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. This ministry is dedicated to reaching out to Calvary members who are no longer able to attend church services and functions. For questions, contact Rich Dyer (richguy101@sbcglobal.net).

Stephen Ministry Volunteers

Would you like to minister in people’s lives when they need it most? Stephen Ministers are members of the Calvary Church congregation who will, on an entirely confidential one-on-one basis, provide listening, caring and encouragement. To learn more about how to become a Stephen Minister, contact Regina (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672.

December 2013 | calvarygr.org | 25

Giving opportunities Lynnell | ext. 3510 lbok@calvarygr.org Clothes Closet

With winter here, the Clothes Closet needs the following items to help keep our Calvary families warmer this season: snow boots for men, women and children; coats, snow pants, snowsuits, hats, gloves and scarves; plus warm clothing.

Your donations are greatly appreciated.

Donations may be dropped off at the Yellow House (on Bradford Street) and are tax exempt. If you have any questions, please call Lynnell.

Food Pantry

This month, to make Christmas special for our families, we need the following: • Frostings • Cookie decorations • Assorted baking ingredients • Brown and white sugar • Powdered sugar

• Butter • Cooking oils • Canned pie filling • Canned fruit • Spices • Gravy • Fresh & boxed potatoes

We are seeing more families who are on special diets and would greatly appreciate donations of low sodium and gluten free products.

Also, please be sure to check that items are not expired prior to donating them. Thank you.

On The Bookshelf

recommended reading for december found in the calvary library Babies have their own schedule, but so does God as revealed in The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman from the Quilts of Love series. When Annie’s friend Leah is due to deliver her first child before Christmas, she becomes determined to finish a crib quilt before the boppli arrives. But God’s plans are different from Annie’s, and she may not finish the quilt in time. As each piece of the quilt comes together, Annie discovers the quilt holds far greater significance than she ever imagined.

Grief can be overwhelming, and it is especially intense during the holidays – those weeks that have always been spent in preparation and anticipation with a loved one who has been lost. While the world seems to be moving forward and celebrating life, grievers face a season of darkness and loss. In A Decembered Grief, Harold Ivan Smith guides the reader beyond that darkness with illustrations and insights that emphasize God’s ability to transform the holidays into a time of grace and healing.

It was a simple idea that became the worldwide outreach of Operation Christmas Child – a project of Samaritan’s Purse – to minister to children in war-torn and famine–stricken countries. In just two decades, it has inspired everyday people to provide more than 100 million gift-filled shoeboxes to needy children in 130 countries. This beautiful book by Franklin Graham weaves the moving, God-saturated story of the ministry’s beginning with the soul stirring, Christ exalting stories of lives that have been forever changed by a simple shoebox.

Christmas Oranges tells the story of baby Rose who was left on the porch of Greenwoods Orphanage, where the staff and children become her family. But when tragedy strikes, Rose loses the only home she has ever known and she is abruptly shipped to Irongates – a place that seems as cold and cruel as her previous home was kind. When Rose doesn’t receive an orange at Christmas like the other children, she is devastated. But Christmas is a time of miracles in this classic holiday story available on DVD.

The Library is located across from Fellowship Hall on the lower level. Our hours are Sunday, 9:15 - 11:15 am and Wednesday, 6:00 - 7:30 pm. Please note that we will be closed on Wednesday, December 25.

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sun

1

mon

2

December 2013

tue

3

10:00am 55+ Leisure Luncheon

Family Service Sunday

9

10

Second Sunday of Advent: Peace

Third Sunday of Advent: Joy

4

11 5:00pm WFD: Pasta Night

15

16

17

9:40am 5th-8th: Cinema Sunday

5

18

fri

6

7:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall

12 7:00pm College Life: Christmas Edition

13 7:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall

19

20

26

27

sat

7

3:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall 7:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall

14

1:45pm 5th-8th: Project Serve 3:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall 7:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall

21

5:00pm WFD: Pot Roast 6:30pm 5th-8th: Beards on the Bayou Christmas Parties

3:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall

7:15pm K-N-A Gingerbread Night

5:45pm UNITED at FOL 7:00pm Festival of Lights: Christmas at Hollington Hall

22

23

24

25

Family Service Sunday

Church Offices Closed

Church Offices Closed

6:00pm LUMIN8 Christmas Musical Fourth Sunday of Advent: Love

5:00pm, 7:00pm & 10:30pm Christmas Eve Services

No Regular Wednesday Evening Programming

29 Family Service Sunday

thu

5:00pm 7:00pm WFD: Stewed Chicken Young Adult & Biscuits Worship Night

First Sunday of Advent: Hope

8

wed

28

Merry Christmas!

30

31

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.

December 2013 | calvarygr.org | 27

We are so glad you have joined us today. We know there are many churches you could have chosen to attend and we are glad you chose to be here.

Perhaps this week you have experienced what a stormy place this world can be. At times our lives feel unpredictable and out of control.

The Apostle Peter knew all about that.

He knew what it was like to fail and to feel defeat and he knew what it was like to suffer. But he also knew what it was like to walk on water.

This year at Calvary Church, we are studying Peter’s letters to the church.

In them we see that Peter is telling us that hard times come and that life isn’t always easy, but that God is a refuge for each one of us.

While you are here we hope you will experience the grace and peace that can come from Jesus Christ — the same Jesus who helped Peter defy nature on the Sea of Galilee.

Jim Samra Senior Pastor

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.

Audio Resources: For past sermons or a series on CD, the Audio Resources booth 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, threeweek 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 Elaine (elohroff@calvarygr. org) at ext. 5903.

Pastoral Need: If you have a need and would like to speak to a pastor, please call the main church number, 956-9377. A pastor is always available.

Welcome to calvary church

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 215.

Calvary Café 9:00am-11:00am 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 our Life{Together} Guide at the Information Center or at calvarygr.org.

Special Needs Adult (Go-Getters): 11:15am Chapel *Students (Seekers and Explorers): 11:15am Rooms 112/114

*Pre-registration recommended Children’s Ministries Kindergarten - Fourth Grade: 9:40am and 11:15am Visit the check-in desk at Entrance K on the lower level to register.

Nursery Care: 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) 7th & 8th Main Event (Studying) High School (United): 6:00pm (Just show up!)

Room 109 Room 108 Room 108

Young Adults Merge (Singles 22-34): 11:15am Foundations (Young Couples 22-34): 11:15am College Lunch (Young Adults 18-22): 12:30pm

Room 137 Room 130 Room 121

LIFE {TOGETHER} 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 contact Brenda Neher (community@ calvarygr.org).