Calvary Life, February 2014

calvary life February 2014

Rewire Begins February 16... p. 4 Save the Date for Girls Night Coming in March... p. 9 March Madness is Coming... p. 12

contents Features 4 | Rewire

This February we're learning how to live faithfully in a technological world. Don't miss this Sunday night series beginning on the 16th!

9 | Girls Night

Catch up with friends and gain insight into the life of Lisa Samra, wife of Calvary’s Senior Pastor, at this fun Women’s Ministry event.

12 | March Madness

Calvary’s annual outreach event brings in a special guest, former Detroit Lion Jason Hanson, this time around. Don’t miss it!

Life{Together} 6 | PUSH

Calvary’s Growing in Remarriage class commits themselves to praying for unsaved family members... until something happens.

7 | Grace in a Shaky Season

Megan VanHorn shares the understanding and support she has received as a young, single mom through the Teen MOPS group.

8 | Welcoming Children with Special Needs

Calvary’s Special Needs Ministry offers tips for helping children build peer relationships.

Plus...

Monday Night Bible Study is studying James this winter and Pastoral Care has a new ministry opportunity for couples.

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Missions & Outreach

10 | SHARE: Open Door Missions Project by the Numbers

The Missions & Outreach team shares an update on last year’s Open Door Project along with a look at one of supported partners in 2014.

11 | Radical Rescuers: Missions Conference

Look forward to this year’s Missions Conference and envision your first steps to becoming a radical rescuer in God’s plan.

Plus...

We celebrate the work of the Gideons within Ukraine during this month dedicated to supporting their ministry efforts.

Calvary leadership

13 | A NOTE FROM THE ELDERS

Calvary’s Elders share an update on the What We Believe/Teach document while continuing to seek prayer regarding their Building Concepts discussion.

Program guide

14-18 | Your One Stop Shop for All the Details on Activities at Calvary Church 18 | On the Bookshelf

Recommended reading for February from the Calvary Library as we celebrate African American History Month.

20 | February Calendar

Tear it out and pin it to your fridge.

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

See Something?

Say Something!

Stephen Ministry Training

Equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ - Ephesians 4:12 We will begin our training class for prospective Stephen Ministers, February 15. The classes will be held on Saturdays from 10:00am12:00pm. A total of seven training sessions are necessary to become a Stephen Minister and subsequent sessions will be held through March 29. To learn more about how to become a Stephen Minister, inquire on receiving care or to enroll in the upcoming training please contact Regina Scovill (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672.

Explore Calvary

Are you new to Calvary?

Are you finding it hard to navigate or get plugged in? Journey together with us for three weeks: Wednesdays, February 5, 12 and 19, 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.

If you observe suspicious behavior that you feel may be a security concern or find a person / group of people acting in a strange manner which causes concern, it needs to be reported to the Emergency Response Team (ERT). If something's amiss, trust your intuition — See something? Say something!

Upon noticing something that needs to be investigated further, use a help phone to ask for an ERT member to come to the area. When the ERT member arrives, they will observe and take necessary steps to investigate and address the situation, as needed.

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

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A file on your device is worth two in the cloud.

Never judge an app by its icon Better snail mail than never

Keep your friends close, and your Facebook friends closer.

A reboot a day, keeps the crash log at bay.

Headphones are golden.

No news website is a good news website

Waiting for a pageload is a virtue.

Google wasn’t built in a day.

Never put all your data into one hard drive.

The world has a lot to tell us about technology.

But what does God say? does the Bible have anything to teach us in this area?

THe ANSWer iS yeS! Join us for a five-week series with Jim Samra on Sunday nights when we will seek to reWire our lives to God’s truth.

L i v i n g Fa i t h F u L Ly i n a t e c h n o L o g i c a L W o r L d

SuNdAy NiGHTS | FeB. 16 THrouGH MAr. 16 | 6:00pM | SANcTuAry

life{together} experiencing community at calvary

PUSH - PRay Until Something happens Growing in remarriage class | 9:40am | Rooms 123-127

At 8:10am on the third Sunday of every month, a small group of prayer warriors meet to pray for those in our families that are not yet saved.

This “group” grew out of the burden we have for our unsaved family members and our prayers are specifically directed to that end. It all started with a Sunday morning challenge over ten years ago to pray passionately for the salvation of our families. I felt that God was asking us to take this passion to action in our Growing in Remarriage class, and over the years we have had several dedicated facilitators lead our group, and many answers to prayer.

The original title for the prayer team was, “Passionate Prayer,” but has been shortened to “PUSH.” I saw a person at work with a shirt that had the acronym “PUSH” and I asked him what the letters stood for and it was pray until something happens, and that’s what we are doing. In one of our prayer times a member said that he heard a great reminder once, “that there is no expiration on our prayers” so we all cling to that as we sometimes get impatient.

Our goal is bring glory to God and have this small fire spread throughout the church, the city and the world. It only takes a spark to get a fire burning. We don’t just pray once a week, we have lists that we take with us with names to be prayed for and we get a reminder each week via email of a family that is “spotlighted” for that week, so that we are vigilant and on our knees.

We have high expectations that the Lord has called us to pray for our families and that we will see answers to our prayers and are reminded to “keep looking up,” because God loves us and wants the best for us. To Him be the glory!

Calvary Church Monday Night Bible Study FAI TH

Mondays | 7:00pm | Chapel

This semester we will be studying the book of James. We begin the evening by meeting together in small groups to go over the lessons, then all meet in the Chapel where our teacher, Ed Kaleefey, will share insights into the lesson. Join at any time.

No pre-registration is necessary. Suggested donation is $5 for the semester.

On your first night: women register in Room 114 and men register in Room 211.

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grace in a shaky season

By Megan vanhorn

Mentor Newlywed Couples

I was not planning to be pregnant and then a single mom at the age of 19, but God is a gracious Redeemer. My son, Cameron, is now 2½ and I am in a new place of peace, strength and hope for our future. Teen MOPS had a lot to do with that.

Maybe it was others. Maybe it was me. But coming to church was uncomfortable as a pregnant, single teen. Even though I had the support of my family and friends, I felt that people didn’t know what to say or do with me. In the mist of that awkwardness, I was approached about Teen MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). Marcy Sobczak felt God leading her to begin this group. She understood. She had been in the same place as me, but now is married and a mom to two children.

As you can imagine, Teen MOPS is small. The thing I most appreciate is feeling very comfortable and loved by godly women in the church. They have mentored me, walked with me, and helped me get my feet on the ground.

Teen MOPS meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday evenings. Those who can come for the Fellowship Dinner get the added bonus of a delicious meal for free!

Since the church already has a whole Kids N Action program, our children have a place to go. Some weeks we hear from speakers on topics like child safety, cooking, fun free things to do with a toddler or how to build confidence as a young woman. We always start with prayer and a devotional given by our mentor moms. Some weeks we have crafts, but useful crafts…a key chain, magnets for the refrigerator, help with a calendar.

I have been helped in many practical ways. Just for attending I received MOPS Bucks which I could use to buy items in the MOPS Shop. Basic necessities like formula and diapers were provided in a beautiful way.

I am so very grateful for the mentoring that occurred. Going to MOPS helped me realize that I am not alone, that I do have support from godly women who understand, some who have even been in my shoes. They helped steady my feet when I felt I was on shaky ground!

Have you ever thought how your experience as a married couple could help a newlywed couple get off to a good start?

Sign up to attend an informational meeting for Newlywed-Couple Mentors, Tuesday, February 4 or Thursday, February 6 (7-8pm both nights). Contact Regina (rscovill@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672.

By attending, you will not be committing, you will be merely learning and asking questions.

If you know of young moms looking for support, who attend Calvary or don’t even go to church, invite them to join the Teen MOPS. For more information, contact Marcy Sobczak at 581-7128.

Calvary Church

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welcoming children with special needs Tips to Build Peer Relationships

How Children Ages 2-4 Respond:

When preschoolers see children with special needs, their primary response is curiosity. They want to get close to the children, look at them, touch them, and see them up close. They may ask lots of questions, including “why” questions.

Children this age don’t experience the embarrassment or social discomfort that older children (and adults) do. So kids may ask innocent question that others may find uncomfortable.

What You Can Do: • Let children get close to a child with a disability (appropriately). Usually, children ask reasonable questions to get information.

• Have the child’s parents come to your class to answer questions.

• Talk about how God made all the children and loves each one.

• Emphasize how each child is unique and special in God’s sight. Give examples of Jesus’ compassion to different kinds of people; for example, the paralytic (Mark 2:1-12) or the man with leprosy (Matthew 8:1-4)

How Children Ages 5-8 Respond:

Children at this age want to know more about what caused the child’s disability. These children are more sensitive to others’ feelings and may ask their question in private. Sometime shy or hesitant children may worry about or fear relating to a child with special needs.

What You Can Do: • Answer children’s question openly and honestly. If you don’t know the answer, say so.

• Emphasize that God created each one of us with strengths and weaknesses, and that we all can honor God together and in our own unique ways.

• Encourage children to be good role models, showing respect and kindness to everyone, even when it seems challenging.

Some thoughts taken from the “Children’s Ministry Pocket Guide to Special Needs” at group.com.

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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Get ready for our second annual Talent Night from Calvary’s Special Needs Ministry!

• Instruments • Vocalists • Sign Language

• Performance Art • Visual Art • Dance

Questions?

Contact Elleen Fitzgerald (efitzgerald@calvarygr.org) at 956-9377.

March 6 | 7:00pm | Gym* Cost: $7 | RSVP at MyCalvaryGR.org

As women we get pulled in a thousand directions meeting the needs of everyone but ourselves. Women’s Ministry invites you to join them for an evening that will help you reconnect - not just with your friends, but with the Creator of your soul. We’ll start the night together in the Gym, come when you can — it will be a casual time for catching up with friends and enjoying sweets and sips of delicious coffee, cocoa and tea.

Girls’ Night will also include a warm and refreshing interview with Lisa Samra, wife of Calvary’s Senior Pastor. Lisa will share from her faith experience, encouraging each of us that we are God’s beloved. Through her stories we’ll gain insight into her life, and be reminded of our Savior’s great desire to use women uniquely in His plans to rescue the world. Together we’ll reflect on the threads God is weaving within our own stories and praise Him for where He has us today. *Note: We will move into the Chapel for our Q&A around 8:00pm.

* *

Hot Drinks & Delicious Desserts with Friends Insightful Q&A with Lisa Samra

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Pray for the Central Asian and local partners we are supporting this year (visit odp.calvarygr.org for details and specific prayer requests).

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.

Gideons Ministry During the Ukraine Scripture Blitz in 2012, Gideons had plans to distribute Scriptures at the Space Academy in Kiev. The team was disheartened as they noticed only half of the students were accepting the New Testaments being handing out.

However, God had a plan for those extra Scriptures.

Unbeknownst to the team, high schools in the area were holding a career day. Soon, buses arrived carrying every high school student in the community. As the teens filed out of their buses, each one accepted a New Testament.

Open DOOr missiOns prOject by the numbers

share One of our partners for our 2013-2014 Open Door Missions Project this year is the Institute for Bible Translation. They are in the final stages of preparing the whole Bible for printing in an important Central Asian language.

• 22 - the number of years this project has been in process, with Calvary support much of the time • 26,000,000 – the number of speakers of this language • 21st – ranking of this people group by population, among the least reached • 15th – ranking of their nation on Open Door’s persecution “World Watch List” • 10,000 – approximate number of believers of Muslim background It’s with great joy that we can see the end in sight – God’s Word in the hands of His people for His glory!

2012-13 Update! One of our partners from last year’s Open Door Project, Mission India, conducts Bible-based adult literacy classes. Here’s how God used Calvary’s gifts from November 2012 through August 2013: • 1200 – enrolled in classes • 732 – started following Jesus • 474 – baptisms • 33 – church fellowships started • 676 – stopped borrowing money to end impoverishing debt-cycle • 489 – began sending their children to school Mission India says: “Thank you, Calvary Church, for helping make disciples to transform India for Christ!”

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The Gideons International is an interdenominational association of Christian business and professional men who are members of evangelical churches. Their members are dedicated to saving the lost through personal witnessing and the distribution of God’s Word in over 90 languages and in more than 190 countries around the world.

The majority of Gideons live and serve in their local communities.

As a result they know the local language and customs as well as the location of hotels, schools, prisons, hospitals and other locations where Bibles may be needed. Sometimes, they are able to establish local groups of Gideons in countries where traditional missionaries aren’t allowed to go.

Calvary has a rich history of supporting the work of the Gideons.

In addition to our financial gifts, several members of Calvary are active in the leadership of the Gideons in Michigan. The month of February has been designated to support the work of the Gideons.

Will you join us this year with a contribution? Every $1.45 will place another New Testament in someone’s hands around the world.

Designate “Gideons” on the memo line of your check, or on the giving envelope.

MISSIONS CONFErENCE 2014 As we have studied through I Peter this year, a central theme has emerged. Pastor Samra summed it up in his message on December 1: 1. God chooses us 2. We obey 3. God uses our obedience to rescue the world Every day, each one of us has the opportunity to obey and through our words and actions to be used by God to rescue those around us. Part of our obedience, as we learned from Steve Moore at our Missions Conference last year, is that God expects us to take the initiative, crossing boundaries and overcoming barriers to show His mercy. At our 2014 Missions Conference, we will discover together how we can take that next, somewhat radical step, and be used by God to rescue others — right here in our own community and around the world — who are different from us and may not always catch our attention.

Our guest speaker Sunday morning, March 23, is Len Bartlotti, who crossed boundaries in the 1990s to minister to Afghan refugees on the northwest frontier

of Pakistan. Len and his family overcame barriers by learning the culture deeply and finding the ways that God opened the door for His word — in their own poetry and proverbs. Len continues to obey by mentoring and training new “radical rescuers.”

Sunday evening will be a celebration of how God is using Calvary Church as “radical rescuers” right here in our own community. Did you know that Calvary members have been reaching out to Muslim, atheist, and secular international students? That a small group has banded together to welcome a Hindu refugee family to the Grand rapids area? That others are beginning to explore the diversity of cultures and religions that have come right to our doorsteps in West Michigan? Can you hear God calling you to join them in obedience and rescue?

On Monday, March 24, we would like to invite the whole church to our annual missions prayer luncheon. reserve your spot to meet a missionary, pray together over a meal and learn more about how you can uphold the radical rescuers who are partners of Calvary.

Join us March 23-24 to learn how you can be one of God’s Radical Rescuers!

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MARCH

MADNESS 2014 An Event for the Whole Family!

Thursday, March 20 and Friday, March 21 | Calvary Church Gym Watch as much or as little as you can handle of the first round action of 2014 March Madness in a safe, smoke-free, alcohol-free environment! See every game broadcast on four projection screens ­‑ from tip-off to the final buzzer! There will be games for kids and delicious lunches and dinners both days.

We will also have a special guest, former Detroit Lions kicker Jason Hanson, share with us on Thursday, March 20 during the dinner hour. Invite your friends, family and neighbors to join you for this always enjoyable annual event. All are welcome!

RSVP online if you’re planning to attend: MyCalvaryGR.org

2013-2014 Elders

A Note from the elders What we believe/what we teach: At last September’s Annual Meeting the congregation voted to approve in draft form the documents called “What We Believe” and “What We Teach” for use in the Membership classes and some Adult Congregations. At next September’s Annual Meeting the elders will seek approval from the congregation to adopt the documents permanently, with any revisions made as a result of this trial year. Because of this, the elders would appreciate feedback on “What We Teach” and/or “What We Believe.” If you do not have copies of your own you are invited to pick them up at the Information Desk or church office. Please read through them carefully and ask God to give you wisdom and discernment as you study them. It would be helpful if you would write down any questions or comments you have, then submit them to the attention of the elders at the church office or in an email to elders@calvarygr.org.

Thank you for offering prayerful feedback.

Building Concepts: As you are likely well aware, for the past several years the elders have been seeking God’s will regarding how to address the challenges posed by the limitations of our building’s available space. Last year we committed to the Lord that we would take steps to add or improve upon at least three specific areas. We promised Him a Prayer Garden as a result of the extravagant gift offered by the congregation, and we committed to improve our Children’s Ministry and Youth areas. We contracted with an architectural firm which designed a set of conceptual drawings that made those three changes as well as a substantial addition to the west side of the existing property that would have included—among other things—an entirely new, larger sanctuary. After spending much time in prayer, asking God to tell us whether or not to move forward with those plans, the Lord’s response to that particular concept was clearly “no.” As the elders and many of you have continued to pray for God’s guidance, we have been excited to see how He is moving us in a different direction. We asked Him to reveal His will in a couple of specific ways and the Lord has graciously done that. In the coming months we hope to share more about where God seems to be guiding Calvary Church to make changes to the property He has provided for us.

Please join us in continuing to pray for wisdom and direction. Former elder Ron Haas sends out a weekly email that includes suggestions for ways you can pray and fast. Please consider joining this Nehemiah Prayer Team, which currently consists of around 450 people from Calvary who receive the weekly update and call to prayer. To join, please email Pam Tuinstra (ptuinstra@calvarygr.org), and we will add you to a regular prayer update.

Prayer: Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. James 5:13-15.

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)

Dane Bjork

(dbjork@calvarygr.org)

Clare DeGraaf

(cdegraaf@calvarygr.org)

Dick Doyle

(ddoyle@calvarygr.org)

Ross Pettinga

(rpettinga@calvarygr.org)

Kent Snoeyink

(ksnoeyink@calvarygr.org)

Tom Thurston

(tthurston@calvarygr.org)

Dennis Bergakker

(dbergakker@calvarygr.org)

Dan Challa

(dchalla@calvarygr.org)

Steve Doren

(sdoren@calvarygr.org)

Chad Kerr

(ckerr@calvarygr.org)

Sam Roth

(sroth@calvarygr.org)

Vernon Spears

(vspears@calvarygr.org)

Allen VanHaitsma

(avanhaitsma@calvarygr.org)

At Calvary, we take this directive from James 5 seriously. Please consider coming for prayer and being anointed with oil in the name of the Lord. You are welcome to just show up at room 220 at 6:15 PM on the first Tuesday of the month. However, if you know in advance that you would like to participate, it would be helpful if you would send an email to our prayer coordinator Cindy Marrell (cmarrell@ calvarygr.org), so she can add you to the schedule.

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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

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

February 2014 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 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.

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

Serving

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, Kid’s Bonus entrée • Side Choices: mac n’ cheese, apple wedges, baby carrots, applesauce, chips, 2% milk, orange juice

Community Outreach

Special Needs

Both the WFD meal and the Youngster’s Buffet include bottomless drinks from our beverage station as well as an ice cream cup.

Children

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

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

*

February 5 - Swiss Steak Neal & Kevin’s version includes grilled cube steak with a mushroom and onion gravy.

• Whipped Potatoes • Grilled Seasonal Vegetable • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: Grilled Cheese Sandwich

February 19 - Bone-in Grilled Pork Chops No fancy name needed for these delicious, juicy pork chops.

• Three Cheese Scalloped Potatoes • Seasonal grilled vegetables • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: Breaded Chicken Tenders

February 12 - Chicken with an Asian Flair Grilled chicken tenderloins in a classic, not too spicy, sweet and sour sauce on a bed of seasoned rice.

• Asian-style Grilled Vegetables • Pork Eggrolls with Sweet & Sour Sauce or a Mild Asian Mustard • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: Pasta with Marinara Sauce

February 26 - A Take on Italian Creamy chicken alfredo lasagna as you’ve come to enjoy it with a twist - now made with rotini pasta.

• Sautéed Mixed Vegetables • Homemade Garlic Bread • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: Breaded Cheese Sticks with Marinara Sauce

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

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On these cold nights, there’s nothing better than time around the table with good friends enjoying a meal you didn’t have to cook! We are here for you 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 Family Road Map Class Sundays, February 2-23 | 11:15am Room 145 | Free

Family Therapist Michael Reiffer and Children’s Pastor Joel Shank will share how you can create spiritual goals for your family, and decide core values and milestones of responsibility. Class time will include lecture and discussion based on the Family Road Map guidebook, as well as provide the opportunity to interact with other parents. RSVP to (childrensministry@calvarygr.org) at ext.

5067.

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.”

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!

5th-8th Grade Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org The Main Event Sunday Mornings | 9:40am 5th/6th: Room 109 | 7th/8th: Room 108

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!

5th/6th Grade Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org Refuge Wednesdays | 6:30pm | 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, just show up!

5th/6th: Silly Olympics February 7 | 6:00-8:30pm | Rm 108 | $5

Do you love all those crazy youth group games we play on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights? Well, we thought we’d try playing games like that all night long! Here’s your opportunity to go for the gold in several high profile events like the potato roll and the washer stack.

Make your country proud! Snacks will be provided. (Parent-signed, year-long release form needed on file to participate.)

Extra volunteers needed. Contact Lee Bergakker (lbergakker@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5175 if you’re able to help out.

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 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!

Winter Retreat at SpringHill Feb. 14 at 5:30pm - Feb. 16 at 3:00pm

This year’s theme is, Redefined. Our winter retreat will show students what it means to be totally transformed by God’s grace with messages like: Ready, Revolution, Rescued and Refined, and a prayer labyrinth that will Release them to make a difference in their communities.

With speaker Mark Oestreicher and the band Sing Love Sing students will thoroughly enjoy this Winter Retreat experience. Sign up early at MyCalvaryGR.org to assure your student’s spot. Registration will close at midnight, February 10.

SpringHill Activities include high-speed tubing, broomball, batting cage, gym, indoor climbing wall, giants ladder, high ropes course, 6’ half pipe, crafts, game room, paintball, horses, indoor pool (some activities may cost extra).

7th/8th: Oasis Out February 26

Parents, Oasis Out is when your student’s small group meets at various venues around Grand Rapids and spends time together with their group and leaders.

Make sure your student knows where his/her group will be meeting for this fun night – they will plan it with their small group leaders.

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: Beginning February 16 and continuing through March 16, UNITED will take part in the Rewire series on Sunday evenings with Jim Samra. We are asking students to arrive at 5:45pm those weeks in order for everyone to meet in room 108 and then walk up to the Sanctuary together. Small group time will follow the service. We will still end at 8:30pm in room 108.

Tubing at Pando / Overnights Feb. 21 at 6:00pm - Feb. 22 at 10:00am Cost: $20 | Drop-off/Pick-up Ent. J

We will hop in the Calvary vans and begin the night together tubing at Pando. Following Pando, girls will head to their sleepover off-site at a home nearby

February 2014 | calvarygr.org | 15

and guys will sleepover at church. Cost includes pizza, tube rental and ticket at Pando. Please bring a sweet or salty snack to share, sleeping bag, pillow, pajama’s and warm clothes for tubing.

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 Book Club February 1 | 10:00am | Room 207

Calling all Young Adults (ages 18-34)!

The next book for the Young Adult Book Club has been selected. If you are interested in reading it and adding your voice to the discussion bring $10 to class and start reading, The Return of the Prodigal Son.

Pre-Rewire Young Adult Dinners Feb. 16- Mar. 16 | 5:15pm | Room 121

From February 16 - March 16, College Life, College Lunch, Merge, and Foundations will not be meeting at their regular times. Instead we will gather in room 121 for an all Young Adults dinner at 5:15pm, go to the rewire series during the evening service at 6:00pm, and then come down to small group rooms (College Rm 121, Merge Rm 137, Foundations Rm 130) for discussion immediately following the service. Whether you are currently involved in a Young Adult community or just interested in getting to know other young adults at Calvary, we hope you will join us.

College a community for young adults 18-22 College Bowlooza February 25 | TIme | Entrance J

We’ll make our own pizzas, design t-shirts, and then hit the lanes for some glow-in-the-dark bowling!

College Life Thursdays, February 6 and 13 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-aged young adults from the Grand Rapids area and to grow in our faith together. For more information, contact Natalie (nuecker@calvarygr.org).

Note: College Life will not meet on Thursdays, February 16-March 16. See Pre-Rewire Young Adults Dinner for more information.

College Lunch Sundays, February 2 and 9 12:30pm | Room 121

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: College Lunch will not meet on Sundays, February 16-March 16. See Pre-Rewire Young Adults Dinner for more information.

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).

Valentine’s Luncheon Hosted by Merge for Widows & Widowers in the Calvary Family February 9 | 12:45pm | Fellowship Hall See page 18 for further details.

Foundations a community for engaged and newly married young adults ages 22-34 Foundations Sundays, Feb. 2 & 9 | 11:15am | Rm 130

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. Join this community as you work on building a strong and lasting foundation for your marriage.

Note: Foundations will not meet on Sundays, February 16-March 16. See Pre-Rewire Young Adults Dinner for more information.

Sweethearts Progressive Dinner Feb. 7 | 6:30pm | Entrance J | $10/couple

We will begin at church and then progress together to a few restaurants around Grand Rapids. We will end the evening at the Boluyt’s for dessert, games and conversation. Sign up and further details on Sunday mornings.

Marriage enrichment Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org Foundations a community for young engaged and newly married couples, ages 22-34

Merge See the details under “Foundations” a community for single young adults above. ages 22-34 Merge Sundays, February 2 and 9 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: Merge will not meet on Sundays, February 16-March 16. See Pre-Rewire Young

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Adults Dinner for more information.

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.

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.

pastoral care Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org 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).

Hands of Jesus Ministry

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

Mental Illness Family Support Group February 25 | 7:00pm | Room 114

Bipolar, or Manic Depressive disorder affects about 1 ½ % of the population, and can be very debilitating. It is however, usually quite treatable, often enabling the person to live an active life. Please join us at our next meeting for support on your journey to wellness. If you have any questions or would like additional information, contact John or Betty Walker at 956-6141.

Stephen Ministry Training Begins Feb. 15 | 10:00am-12:00pm

spective Stephen Ministers, February 15.

The classes will be held on Saturdays from 10:00am-12:00pm. A total of seven training sessions are necessary to become a Stephen Minister and subsequent sessions will be held through March 29. To learn more about how to become a Stephen Minister, inquire on receiving care or to enroll in the upcoming training please contact Regina Scovill (rscovill@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672.

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 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 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!

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 February 3 | 10:30am | Fellowship Hall

PET (Personal Energy Transportation) will share their work on wheelchairs for third world countries. 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.

Ol’ Fashioned Potluck & Fellowship February 16 | 12:30-2:30pm | Gym

Older adults 55+ will meet to enjoy a fantastic afternoon of food, fellowship and possibly a surprise or two. Bring a vegetable, desert, or salad to pass for at least 5 folks. We will provide the meats, drinks, and tableware. RSVP to Regina at ext. 3672 before January 29.

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

Pastor Bruce Huseby will continue teaching, “The Jesus Way.” Join us as we examine Christ’s commands to Love God, Love Others and Make Disciples as we see them rooted in His life. We meet for coffee and fellowship at 9:30am and at 9:50am for prayer, encouragement and Bible Study.

We will begin our training class for pro-

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Valentine’s Luncheon Hosted by Merge for Widows & Widowers in the Calvary Family February 9 | 12:45pm | Fellowship Hall

Valentine’s Day can be a difficult time of year for those who are single or have lost their spouse. However, this is a great time of year when we can extend the love we have in Christ to others. If you are a widow or widower, please join us in the Fellowship Hall for an afternoon of fellowship where we’ll enjoy lunch and conversation. We want to get to know you and for you to get to know us. Come be blessed and encouraged.

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

On The Bookshelf

celebrate african american history month If you love reading about miracles, Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story is for you! God uses Ben Carson, M.D., to work medical miracles. Today, he’s one of the most celebrated neurosurgeons in the world. This is Carson’s inspiring odyssey from childhood in inner-city Detroit to his position as director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital at age 33. Filled with fascinating case histories, this is the dramatic and intimate story of Ben Carson’s struggle to beat the odds -- and of the faith and genius that have made it possible. DVDs about Ben Carson’s life are also available in the Calvary library.

“I’m thrilled that the historical and important story of the legendary Harry Burleigh is finally being told!” - Eric Metaxas, New York Times bestselling author of Bonhoeffer

Clothes Closet

Warm clothes are needed for everyone in the family. If you have any of the following items you are not using or the kids have outgrown, we would love to have them: sweaters, long sleeve shirts, pants, winter coats, boots, snow pants, hats, mittens and gloves. 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.

Now Harry T. Burleigh, once world-renowned for his career as a beautiful baritone soloist, an arranger of Negro spirituals, and a composer in his own right, is lifted out of obscurity once more. Nobody Knows: The Forgotten Story of One of the Most Influential Figures in American Music is an inspiring true story that will take you back in time to Southern plantations and Northern boom towns, to minstrel shows and soaring sanctuaries. Through the seemingly insignificant pieces of life, God used Burleigh to preserve the songs that would form the basis of a uniquely American music.

Food Pantry

This month we need the following: • Tuna fish • Tuna and Hamburger Helper • Crackers • Brown sugar • Powdered sugar • Butter

• • • • • • • •

Cooking oils Boxed cakes Frosting Honey Peanut Butter Jams and Jellies Salt and pepper Assorted spices

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.

From the golden age of steamboats, the rush of immigrants to new land, and the dangers of the Underground Railroad come true-to-life stories of courage, integrity, and suspense. In Race for Freedom, Lois Walfrid Johnson uses strong historical interest to bring alive a critical time in American history. This is the second in the Freedom Seekers series of six novels, all of which can be found in the Calvary library.

In The Gentle Giant of Dynamite Hill: The Untold Story of Arthur Shores and His Family’s Fight for Civil Rights, sisters Helen and Barbara Shores recount growing up with their father, Arthur Shores, a prominent Civil Rights attorney during the 60s in the Jim Crow south Birmingham district. Their family was frequent targets of the Ku Klux Klan and the victims of multiple attacks.

The Gentle Giant of Dynamite Hill is an incredible story of a family’s unfair suffering, but also of the Shores’ overcoming. This family’s sacrificial commitment, courage, determination, and triumph inspire us today.

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.

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February 2014

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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.

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10:00am Young Adult Book Club

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10:00am 7:00pm 55+ Leisure Luncheon NewlywedCouple Mentors Informational Meeting Option 1

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12:45pm 7:00pm Merge Hosted Eating and Body Valentine’s Luncheon Image Support Group for the Widowed

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5 5:00pm WFD: Swiss Steak 5:15pm Explore Calvary Begins

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6 7:00pm NewlywedCouple Mentors Informational Meeting Option 2

12:30pm Ol’ Fashioned Potluck & Fellowship

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6:30pm Foundations Sweethearts Progressive Dinner

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15 10:00am Stephen Ministry Training Begins

5:30pm 7th/8th Winter Retreat Departs

6:30pm Good Sense Class Begins

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6:00pm 5th/6th Silly Olympics

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5:00pm WFD: Asian Chicken

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6:00pm UNITED Pando / Overnights

5:00pm WFD: Grilled Pork Chops

3:00pm 7th/8th Winter Retreat Returns 6:00pm Sunday Night Rewire Series Begins

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7:00pm Mental Illness Family 5:00pm Support Group WFD: Chicken Lasagna College Bowlooza 6:30pm 7th-8th: Oasis Out

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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 7th & 8th Main Event 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).