March Calvary Life

calvary life March 2013

Calvary is a Great Place to Catch All The First Round March Madness Action...7 Release Joy, Faith, Freedom and More...9

Calvary’s Holy Week Guide...10

contents

7 March Madness 2013 enjoy first round action of in a family-friendly environment

9 Release attend this conference and discover how you can live victoriously in spiritual warfare

10 Preparing for easter your guide to marking the easter season at calvary church

4 | 5 Questions with Charlotte Hilber

Calvary Life sits down with the church’s new Director of Pastoral Counseling and Marriage Enrichment.

5 | On the Bookshelf

Reading recommendations for March from the Library, as well as the staff of the Yellow House.

6 | Pairing Compassion with Action

Josh Mateer delves into why we care by taking a look at the lives of Peter and Paul.

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8 | Behind the Scenes

Discover what it’s really like to serve at CSI.

12 | Missions & Outreach Update

This month we share details on the 2013 Missions Conference and an ODV update.

14 | A Note from the Elders

15 | Program Guide

15 - Children, 5th-8th Grade 16 - High School, Young Adults (College, Merge, Foundations), Calvary Community 17 - Pastoral Care, Prayer Groups, Senior Adults, Special Needs 18 - Women, Serving Opportunities, Giving Opportunities

Elder Clerk, Kent Snoeyink, revisits some issues the elders continue to focus on and invites you to 19 | March Calendar join them in prayer.

Dates to know and hold onto for March.

As you plan your Wednesday evening here at Calvary don’t forget that we serve a hot, fresh, homemade meal made right here from our Calvary Kitchen. We are grateful for your participation and fellowship on Wednesday nights. All of us who serve in the kitchen are energized by preparing and serving all of you.

March 6 Sunday Dinner on Wednesday Grilled hand cut Ham Steaks with Traverse Bay cherry sauce Four cheese scalloped potatoes Grilled seasonal vegetables

Each Wednesday we serve a hot entrée paired with fresh sides, our own oven baked fresh rolls, a salad bar, soda and ice cream cups. We have a kid sized meal, a Healthy Hero’s meal and a Super Hero’s Meal.

Wednsheipsddinnaery Fellow

March 13 Down Home Comfort Food - Meatloaf

Introducing a new home-style meatloaf, the way mom used to make it Mashed potatoes Rich brown gravy Grilled seasonal vegetables

Prices: $5.00 for the featured meal, $3.00 for the Children’s (under 10 only) or Healthy Hero’s Meal.

If your child would like a larger portion there is the Super Hero meal for $5.00. To keep the cost down for families, there is a family meal plan for $15.00 (two adults, and three Healthy Hero’s Meals.

March 20 Savory Oven Roasted Chicken

Let us know ahead of time if you have any special dietary concerns that we could accommodate for you.

Oven roasted chicken, lightly seasoned Baked potato, your choice of butter or sour cream Grilled seasonal vegetables with our special blend of seasoning

Blessings Kevin Troupe, Director of Culinary Services & Special Events

March 27 No Wednesday Fellowship Dinner There is no Wednesday Night programming on this date due to Holy Week.

good to know Holy Week Programming Note Please note that regular church programming is canceled during Holy Week. Our hope is to allow space in all of our lives for reflection as we prepare for Easter. We encourage you to make time to visit our Holy Week Prayer Garden and attend our Holy Week services as you are able. More details about the Easter season are available on page 10.

and his wife were directors on Wednesday nights for single parent programs before his illness in 1999. Roger expressed his desire to help single parent families with financial needs they experienced trying to raise a family alone. For more information on how single parent families can be blessed through this fund for camp this summer, contact Lynnell Bok (lbok@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3510.

Scholarships for Summer Camp Now Available for Children of Single Parents The Roger W. Smith Memorial Trust Fund, which has provided for education, summer camp fees, and other special projects, was established as a gift to Calvary Church. Roger

LUMIN8 Children’s Choir – Save the Date Mark your calendar to attend the LUMIN8 Spring Concert on May 5. The choir will present the songs they have been learning all year, including James chapter 4. Also in late May, the choir’s third CD will be released – just

in time for those summer road trips!

Experiencing a Crisis?

If you are experiencing a crisis, or perhaps going through a difficult emotional, spiritual, or relationship situation, Stephen Ministry & Lay Counseling can help. Contact Phyllis Dykstra at 784-1858.

Know a Shut-in?

If you know of someone from the Calvary family who is now considered a shut-in, please let our office know so that we can coordinate a visit with them. Contact Regina (rscovill@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672.

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connections getting to know calvary 1

5Questions with Charlotte Hilber Director of Pastoral Counseling and Marriage Enrichment

What is your role at Calvary Church?

I am new to Calvary Church, new to Michigan for that matter, and have professional training and 17 years experience practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). I chose to become an MFT because of the important centrality of the God-ordained institution of the family in society. So mostly my role is to provide professional counseling to adults and couples in the Calvary Church community. In addition, I facilitate the process for engaged couples getting married at Calvary Church and other marriage programs.

3

How has God recently revealed Himself in your life?

We moved to Grand Rapids for my husband to take up a teaching position at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. Uprooting our lives from Dallas, TX and replanting ourselves here in Grand Rapids was quite an undertaking at this point in our lives and we have been utterly amazed at God’s provision and care for us at every step of the way.

4

How have you experienced life{together}?

Well this ties in with the previous question of What encourages you most as you how God has recently revealed Himself. Calvary minister at Calvary?

Church people were a part of God’s provision In the six months that my husband and I have and care for us even before the prospect of been involved at Calvary Church, one of the this staff position came about. That is in large things that stands out to me is the generosity measure what drew us to join the Calvary of the church; not only service generosity, but Church family. financial generosity. Since time and money are so valued in our culture, this generosity speaks How can the Calvary family pray for hugely about the passion people have for you and your ministry this month? participating in God’s kingdom.

That I will be attentive and sensitive to God’s leading as I meet with each person or couple.

2

5

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on the bookshelf recommended reading for march found in the calvary library

Do you remember that one moment (or maybe there were several) that changed your life when you were a child – and shaped part of who you are today? We all have these stories that can bring a smile to your face or tears to your eyes. In his book, Just a Minute, Wess Stafford, President and CEO of Compassion International, shares how you can be that someone in the life of the very next child who comes across your path. With each child you encounter, you have the power and opportunity to build up….or, tragically, to tear down. A life can be greatly influenced with as little as a single word, a well-timed hug, a tender prayer, a compliment, the holding of a frightened hand or the gentle wiping of a tear – all in just a minute!

That’s Why I’m Here is the inspiring memoir of Ohio State football legend, NFL All Pro player, and ESPN college football analyst Chris Spielman and his late wife, Stephanie. It is a story of family, faith and perseverance. In 1998, Stephanie was diagnosed with breast cancer, and so began a 12 year journey that brought joy and suffering to the Spielman’s, as well as hope and inspiration to thousands of others. Though there are many on-the-field tales in this book, it is not just for football fans. It’s for people whose lives have been touched by cancer, for anyone whose faith has wavered in the face of adversity, and for anyone who wants to meet a woman of tremendous beauty, grace and strength.

most recommended This month, throughout the Calvary Life, we’re taking an extra long look at the topic of care. How do we care for others well? Who do we turn to when the needs of those we’re caring for overwhelm us?

What does it look to when the family of Calvary cares for each other? These are just some of the questions we are asking.

With this topic in mind, it seemed only right to ask the staff of the Yellow House, home of Calvary’s Pastoral Care department and the place to turn when you need extra help, what books they’ve read and find themselves recommending again and again. Below are the titles they turn to when helping meet the needs of those experiencing broken relationships, illness, grief and more. If you find yourself needing an extra measure of care this March, these books are available in Calvary’s library. Pick one up today.

Major Jeff Struecker’s military thriller, Fallen Angel, explodes with drama, danger and an unwavering desire to serve God and country. When a Chinese Special Forces group targets Angel 12, an American intelligence satellite containing top secret intelligence technology, the ensuing 22,000 mile free-fall lands the device somewhere in remote Siberia. Not far away, a Russian shadow government has captured the team of U.S. airmen sent to find it. With the stakes rising, U.S. Sgt Major Eric Moyer and his Special Ops unit are deployed to secure the satellite and save their fellow servicemen.

But when the hostage crisis takes a domestic turn, winning this dangerous mission could lead to Moyer’s most personal defeat.

All the books mentioned are available in Calvary's Library. The Library is located across from Fellowship Hall on the lower level.

Their hours are Sunday, 9:15 – 11:15am; Wednesday, 9:15 – 9:45 am and 6:00 – 7:30pm.

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Pairing Compassion with Action Why We Choose to Care

By Josh Mateer, Pastoral Staff, Pastoral Care The story of Peter is striking. He denies Jesus three times. And it is not simply a passive, catch me off guard when I am not looking kind of denial. He denies Jesus with the straight ahead statement, “I do not know him.” Finally, by the third opportunity, he inserts angered annoyance at this slave girl who could bust his cover and possibly get him dragged off and killed. So he finalizes the deal by saying, “I tell you, I don’t know him!”

Then it happens, the rooster crows and Jesus looks him right in the eyes. In utter brokenness, Peter slips into isolation and weeps. This is the single most painful experience of Peter’s life. Nothing could compare to this. A number of days later, Peter still in this brokenness finds himself in a one-on-one conversation with the risen Lord. Jesus asks him, “Do you love me?” “You know I love you Jesus.” It comes a second time, “Do you love me.” “Yes, you know I love you.” A third time Jesus asks. Peter responds, “Yes, Lord you …” And it clicks; he is being asked three times as a process of restoration. In that moment Jesus shows grace and comfort, and restores Peter. And Jesus is not just restoring him, He entrusts him with a major assignment. This assignment is found in John 21:16. After Peter reaffirms his love for the Lord the third time Jesus says, “Take care of my sheep.”

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 Paul emphasizes the fact that we have the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. Father of Our Father compassion signifies the relational tenderly cares for aspect God has with us. He is merciful us out of His great and loving to us amidst our pain and compassion... heartache. Our Father tenderly cares for us out of his great compassion for us.

He is also the God of all comfort. By shifting from Father to God, Paul is reminding us of the fact that He is powerful, in control and sovereign. If He is the Father who has compassion for us He is also the God who is strong enough to actively do something about our situation. And that action is described as “comfort.” The Greek word for comfort is paraklete. We recognize this word as primarily referring to the Holy Spirit. Think of all of the various roles the Holy Spirit plays: guidance, provision, encouragement, sustenance, etc. All of this is wrapped Comfort... is the into the concept of paraklete. So when action of working we hear the word comfort in English, we to provide what a need to go beyond the idea of sitting person needs. next to someone and silently listening.

It includes that, but goes beyond to the action of working to provide what a person needs.

Most of us don’t think of Peter as the pastoral care apostle. But here Jesus gives him that as one of his major responsibilities. In our minds Peter is the Type A, visionary, take Who is it that bold risks apostle. But who is it that really makes the really makes the best care giver? best care giver?

Those who have experienced the pain Those who have of brokenness and received comfort experienced themselves. Those who realize how the pain of much grace and comfort they have brokenness and received from God are the ones Returning to Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 1, we see that Paul implores received comfort who can extend the most grace and us with the notion that if we have received compassion and comfort themselves. from God, we in turn must give that compassion and comfort to comfort to others. others. Let us love one another with the compassion of the Father and Paul is another person who understands this principle innately. Paul let us comfort one another with the active care we have received from suffered. He suffered deeply and wrote a profound passage outlining our great God. In so doing, we will be a community characterized by compassion with action. how to care for one another.

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MARCH

MADNESS 2013 An Event for the Whole Family!

Thursday, March 21 and Friday, March 22 | Calvary Church Gym Watch as much or as little as you can handle of the first round action of 2013 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. Special guest Doug Smith will join us to share about his experience playing minor league baseball for the Minnesota Twins. Invite your friends, family and neighbors to join you for this always enjoyable annual event. All are welcome!

Register online if you’re planning to attend: calvarygr.org/marchmadness March March2012 2013|| calvarygr.org | 97

Behind the Scenes

Find out what it’s really like to serve at Calvary’s summer program for kids—CSI! Why did you choose to serve at CSI? I thought it would be fun experience and a good time to get to know more people. I knew it would be a fun time with kids.

Sandy vanderBoon

What did you enjoy most about serving in CSI? I loved all the enthusiasm and the kids had such a positive fun time. I liked how they incorporated God into all the science stuff.

How did God bless you through serving?

It was neat to see the kids respond to the stories, prayer time, crafts, games, they seemed to grow closer to God. I want my own grandkids and nephews to have the same types of experiences.

What would you say to someone who thought about serving in CSI? I was nervous because I did not know anyone but everyone was friendly. And it was a fun experience I would encourage you to plan to serve.

If you have never volunteered for CSI, why not consider it this year? Creative Science Investigators (CSI) is June 11-13, 9:00am-12:00pm. Whether you are retired, or a student just beginning the summer off from school, take three awesome fun mornings to see how God can use you to change a child’s life forever. Register yourself to serve at calvarygr.org. If you have any questions contact Zoe Carmichael (csi@calvarygr.org) at 822-8896.

Save the Date for CSI: Extreme experiments, cool crafts, exciting speakers and wacky games are being planned for CSI 2013! Kids five years old (by Dec. 1, 2012) through fourth grade are invited to come and learn about God’s amazing creation as we discover mind-blowing details about – Outer Space, Wild Weather and Xtreme Bugs. Start thinking now what friends you will invite, June 11-13.

Kids serving our community Pregnancy Resource Center Report

During the month of January, kids at Kids N Action put their faith into action by collecting items for the Pregnancy Resource Center. At KNA, kids have learned from the book of James that God wants us to respect others. Collecting and donating items like diapers, wipes, and other baby supplies respects and honors the most vulnerable of lives.

Discovery is a program designed to help you learn about what your spiritual gifts are and how you can use them. You will have the opportunity to meet with a trained staff member to review the Discovery program and guide you through the process.

A recent Discovery participant said, “Bonnie was very friendly and appropriately personal (not business-like). She was very discerning to my needs and offered helpful and wise counsel.”

Make a Discovery today by filling out a Discovery card at one of the Information Centers to receive your packet or contact Christy (cvanandel@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5615.

Get serving!

If you’re looking to get your vocal chords back in shape in choir, work behind the scenes in the kitchen, rock a baby in the nursery, or greet and give a smile to new people at Calvary we have opportunities for you! We have a variety of different areas that need your help. Whether you’re looking to serve once a week or once a month; we offer plenty of options that will fit your schedule.

Contact Judie Fielstra (jfielstra@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5095 today.

Are you new to Calvary Church? Journey together with us for three weeks on Wednesdays in April, (April 10, 17, and 24) in room 126, 5:15-6:30pm. We’ll enjoy gathering in an informal setting to share a meal together, meet staff, and learn more about Calvary. R.S.V.P. by Tuesday, April 9 for the April session to Christy (cvanandel@calvarygr.org) or at ext. 5615. Another session will take place in May, contact Christy for dates.

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e s a e l e R er w o P ∙ eness

Joy ∙ Fa

m o d e e r ith ∙ F

People tend to have interesting notions of what spiritual warfare looks like. In reality, for many people spiritual warfare flies under the radar of detection. Have you ever had recurring headaches, or felt anxiety and fear that just won’t go away? What about struggles with anger or jealousy? These are some of the ways we’ve seen spiritual warfare show up.

The good news? We’ve seen God show up too. God is ready to provide freedom – in fact this is why Jesus came. For freedom.

For you and me. Are you tired of the headaches, the anxiety and fear, the struggles with sin, living with guilt and shame, and feeling like God is far away? So are we.

Release freedom, release joy.

ol h W ∙ e ∙ Peac

Release Living Victoriously in Spiritual Warfare A conference for anyone interested in learning more about spiritual warfare, connecting deeply with God and working through life’s problems.

Friday, April 12 - Sunday, April 14 | Room 108 Cost: $10 (Scholarships are available, please request at registration.)

This three-day conference will be filled with teaching, Q & A sessions and workshops led by JP Gaylord, Calvary’s Special Projects Coordinator.

Our goal is to help people recognize spiritual warfare in their lives and engage with it effectively. We will meet Friday evening, all day Saturday (approximately 9:30am-4:30pm) and Sunday afternoon. Cost includes lunch on Saturday and conference materials. Register today at MyCalvaryGR.org or contact Ruth Gudbrandson (rgudbrandson@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5013.

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Devotional Guide Holy Season is the period of the church calendar, beginning approximately forty days prior to Easter, which focuses our attention on spiritual things.

To complement our Sunday morning series in the books of Samuel, our devotions during this season will focus on some of the names of God that David speaks of in the Psalms. Each week we will explore a different name for God and meditate on a related Psalm with a selection of short readings and prayers. (Feel free to supplement these with your own readings from the Psalms.) Each week also includes an action step to encourage us to step out in faith in a tangible way as we prepare our hearts for Easter.

Pick up devotional guides at the back of the Sanctuary or in the Worship Office during the week.

Preparing for

Easter Give God Control

Sunday

Garden

We have been hearing messages about not taking things into our own hands, but rather giving God control of our lives. As you pray through this season, consider areas of your life in which God may be trying to lead you, but you are not willing to let go. Make a list of the areas you want to give up to God (finances, relationships, hobbies) and commit to praying for God’s control over them throughout this season and beyond.

In our Prayer Garden during Holy Week, there will be a station where we can symbolically give these areas to God. Look for a symbol you may want to bring (it may be a stone, or a coin or even a rubber duckie – whatever has meaning to you) and leave behind as you give God complete control of that area of your life.

Pray for Three A little over two years ago, we were encouraged to pray for three people in our lives who need to experience God’s love. As we look forward to Easter, it is a good time to recommit to that discipline. Whether you choose new people or continue praying for those already on your heart, we challenge you to pray for them daily, from now until Easter.

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Palm

Prayer Monday – Friday, 7:00am to 9:00pm

March 24 8:10, 9:40 and 11:15am

During Holy Week we invite you to come to our prayer garden in the Chapel for a time of prayer and reflection.

On Palm Sunday, we celebrate the Triumphal Entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, the week before His death and resurrection. Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week.

The Bible tells us that when Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds greeted Him with waving palm branches, and by covering His path with palm branches. Immediately following this great time of celebration in the ministry of Jesus, He begins His journey to the cross.

This year, consider bringing along a symbol to leave behind, representing an area of your life or a burden that you want to give God control over.

The Bible passages of Palm Sunday can be found in Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-44 and John 12:12-19.

Easter Sunday | March 31 services at 7:00*, 8:10*, 9:40 and 11:15am

Easter Sunday

From the earliest days of the church, Easter has been celebrated by all Christians everywhere. As the most important day in the Christian calendar, Easter Sunday is the day that we celebrate the bodily Resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Our forty-day preparation and Holy Week will better prepare our hearts to celebrate the power and joy of Christ’s resurrection on Easter. The Bible passages for Easter can be found in Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, and John 20.

Nursery will be provided for birth through 35 months except during the 7:00am service. No children’s Sunday School or adult classes will meet on Easter Sunday. Join your Calvary family to celebrate the resurrection with a light breakfast in the Gym, served from 7:30 to 10:15am. *If you are able, we encourage you to attend the earlier services in order to make room for visitors in the later services.

Seder

Meal Maundy Thursday

Palm Sunday Musical March 24 6:00pm Grace is the voice that calls us to change and then gives us the power to pull it off. Join us as we focus on God’s amazing grace in our lives in an evening of worship and celebration, led by the Calvary Church Choir.

Wednesday, March 27 6:00pm A better understanding of the Seder meal (Jewish Passover celebration) enables Christians to more appreciate the meaning of the Lord’s Supper. We will have an opportunity for 100 people to experience a Seder meal. Cost is $15/person. Families are encouraged to attend. If cost is a problem, please let us know!

Some scholarships are available.

To make reservations or get more details, contact Kristin White (kwhite@calvarygr.org), at ext. 5155.

March 28 | 7:00pm No Childcare

Good Friday March 29 | 7:00pm No Childcare

Traditionally the Christian Church has referred to the Thursday before Easter as Maundy Thursday, from the Latin word “mandatum.” The term is usually translated “commandment,” from John’s account of this night.

According to the book of John, as Jesus and the disciples were eating their final meal together before His arrest, He washed the disciples’ feet to illustrate humility and servanthood. During the Passover (Lord’s Supper), Jesus took bread and wine and asked His Father to bless it. He broke the bread, giving it to His disciples saying, “This is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” Then He took the cup of wine and said, “This wine is the token of God’s new covenant to save you−an agreement sealed with the blood I will pour out for you.”

Good Friday is the day Christ died on the cross, the Friday before Easter. As the most somber day in the Christian calendar, it is a day for prayer, repentance, and meditation on the agony and suffering of Christ on the cross. Since Christ’s death on the cross is central to the Christian faith, the events of that day should be ever on our minds.

We celebrate Good Friday with a subdued evening service, remembering the night of Christ’s death.

During our Maundy Thursday service, we often see people washing the feet of others to demonstrate humility and servanthood. We also partake in the Lord’s Supper just like Jesus did on the night He was betrayed.

The Bible passages for Good Friday can be found in Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, and John 19.

The Bible narratives of Maundy Thursday can be found in Matthew 26:17-30, Mark 14:12-26, Luke 22:738, John 13:1-17, and I Corinthians 11:23-25.

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awaken

to god’s glory | to the world’s need

Missions Conference: Saturday & Sunday, April 20-21 Our Missions Conference this year calls us to Awaken to what God is doing in response to widespread social issues and spiritual poverty; to find encouragement in His hand of control; and to be exposed to opportunities of greater vision and direction in our local community and in the world.

Saturday, April 20: Workshops We are privileged to be the host church for the 2013 West Michigan Missions Forum which brings together local churches, missions agencies and world recognized missions leaders. This is a unique opportunity for our church family to participate in discussions and gain an understanding of many missions-related topics including: • How to “do” missions here and around the world in today’s cultural climate; • Short-term missions; • Poverty and justice issues;

• Learning how families can live with a missions focus; • Brainstorming ways to reach the least reached, even here in Grand Rapids.

The Forum is 8:30am-3:30pm on Saturday, with lunch included. Registration and exhibits open at 7:30am. Come all day or just part of the day – special “host church rates” will allow for flexibility. Watch the weekly bulletin, the April Calvary Life, and the eNews for more details and registration information.

Sunday Morning, April 21: Wake Up Call!

• Steve Moore, author of the 2011 book Who Is My Neighbor?, will join us in our morning services to inspire us to live lives focused on seizing the kingdom opportunities God has given us to be a blessing to the nations. Steve is the current president of MissioNexus, an organization that seeks to foster shared learning, open doors and collaborative action across North America.

• Community ministry partners will have displays in the Café with opportunities for everyone to get involved.

Sunday Evening, April 21: Naptime Is Over Extreme poverty…orphans…human trafficking. Worldwide issues? Yes. Local issues? Yes! The Sunday evening service will focus on urban ministry right here in Grand Rapids, and we will take time to celebrate the work God is doing in our community through Calvary volunteers. Join us in the gym after the service for dessert and opportunities to connect with local ministries where you can make a difference.

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Touching lives in india

|

changing hearTs aT home & around The world

Calvary Church’s 2013 Open Door Vision

project update Faith in Deeds Children’s Home The Faith in Deeds Children’s Home in India is one of the organizations that we are supporting through our 201213 Open Door Vision project. The staff of Faith in Deeds is committed to providing these children with a family atmosphere in which they can be discipled in the ways of the Lord Jesus; educating them in a manner that they can make properly informed life-decisions based on a Biblical world view; and by inspiring them to love each other and to share the love of Jesus throughout their community. The specific need that our gifts will help fill is a new facility for the boys and girls.

They ask for wisdom as they move forward with all of the many details for preparing to build the new home.

They desire that the Lord would be in every part of the process.

One way that the Faith in Deeds Children’s Home trains children to reach out with the love of Jesus is through Christmas dances and dramas that they perform in 5 nearby villages where there is little Christian presence. Here’s what happened during one of their performances this past Christmas: “Some college students were visiting a village while our children performed, and they loved it! They said they had never seen the gospel presented in such a creative way and that we must perform in their village. We quickly agreed.

They set up a stage in the middle of the road (Indian style) for all of the villagers to see. No one would miss our Christmas celebration! Many people came to watch and they cheered with each of the children’s dances. Several dances they requested repeatedly. Our children danced until 1 AM all while sharing the joy of Christ’s coming into the world. It was a beautiful sight! We are blessed that the Lord has given us such a precious gift to share and such precious ones to tell the story.”

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2012-2013 Elders & Deacons If you have any questions or comments you would like to share with an elder, please see the list above the blue line. If you would to contact a deacon, they are listed below the blue line.

Dennis Bergakker

(dbergakker@calvarygr.org)

Clare DeGraaf

(cdegraaf@calvarygr.org)

Noe Palacios

(npalacios@calvarygr.org)

Kent Snoeyink

(ksnoeyink@calvarygr.org)

Eric Cerling

(ecerling@calvarygr.org)

Jim DeVries

(jdevries@calvarygr.org)

Ross Pettinga

(rpettinga@calvarygr.org)

Vernon Spears

(vspears@calvarygr.org)

Dan Challa

(dchalla@calvarygr.org)

Dick Doyle

(ddoyle@calvarygr.org)

Sam Roth

(sroth@calvarygr.org)

Mike Still

(mstill@calvarygr.org)

Allen VanHaitsma

(avanhaitsma@calvarygr.org)

Stephen Baab

(sbaab@calvarygr.org)

Wilhelm Kliewer

(wkliewer@calvarygr.org)

Mike Reiffer

(mreiffer@calvarygr.org)

Rob Umstead

(rumstead@calvarygr.org)

Jim Hoekwater

Brian Klaver

(jhoekwater@calvarygr.org)

(bklaver@calvarygr.org)

Tom Miller

David Radde (dradde@calvarygr.org)

(tmiller@calvarygr.org)

Jim Stubblefield

(jstubblefield@calvarygr.org)

Chris Walkup

(cwalkup@calvarygr.org)

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Howard Timmer

(htimmer@calvarygr.org)

Dan Wynalda

(dwynalda@calvarygr.org)

a note from the elders Respectfully Submitted by Kent Snoeyink, Elder Clerk The two items listed here may look familiar to you. Although we deal with a wide variety of things in elder meetings we are underscoring these two again, not only because they affect you directly, but because we would especially appreciate your prayers asking God to give us wisdom and clarity in these two matters. Thank you for praying!

Bible Translation Committee Calvary Church uses the New International Version of the Bible (NIV) that was first published in 1984.

Zondervan Publishing has since released the NIV 2011 version and no longer publishes the 1984 version.

This could create confusion for those whose Bible version doesn’t match what is read from the pulpit.

As our pew Bibles wear out they will need to be replaced. The question is: with what version do we replace them? With these challenges in mind, the elders commissioned a Bible Translation Advisory Committee to study the options and bring recommendations to the elders. The elders are grateful to John Zimmerman and the members of the Translation Advisory Committee for their diligent and prayerful research. A decision will be made in the coming weeks regarding what version Calvary should use. Please pray for us as we study this matter and fervently seek God’s will for our church.

Limited Space You are likely well aware of the challenges of limited space in the sanctuary, the hallways, parking lots and classrooms on Sunday mornings. Two and a half years ago, the elders and deacons began praying and fasting on a weekly basis to ask God for wisdom in resolving some of Calvary’s space limitations.

We engaged Doug Pasma, an architect from The Pasma Group, to help us understand what options would make better use of our current space and what additional space we might need. After sharing the preliminary drawings with the congregation in November we have been seeking God’s direction for what next steps—if any—we should take. No timelines have been established and few decisions have been made beyond what is listed below. Pairs of elders and staff have visited over two dozen Adult Congregations on Sunday mornings to explain the building concepts and to ask our Calvary family to pray about what to do next. We are proceeding prayerfully and slowly, and have committed to the following: 1. The Lord is in control and we will not make any changes without His clear direction.

2. We promised God a Prayer Garden as a result of the “extravagant gift” in 2011, so we intend to follow through on that commitment whether or not it is incorporated into a larger remodel.

3. As we have been praying for direction we feel that something should be done in at least three other specific areas: the children’s wing should be made more secure and user friendly, more adequate space should be provided for young adults, and we acknowledge that the twoservice model on Sunday morning is more conducive to worship and care than the current three-service arrangement.

We desire to be excellent stewards of the mission, the space and the money to which God has entrusted us. Please join us and many brothers and sisters from Calvary in praying for wisdom and clarity from the Lord. If you would like weekly updates and prayer requests you are invited to join the Nehemiah Prayer Team. Simply call the church or email Ron Haas at rhaas@mail.com and he will add your email address to the distribution list.

As always, we cherish your prayers and value your input. If you have questions, comments or concerns for the elders, you are welcome to email us at elders@calvarygr.org.

CALVARY CHURCH

Program GUIDE Sunday Morning Worship Service

8:10, 9:40, and 11:15am | Sanctuary

Quick Connect administrative staff information in alpha order by ministry

Benevolence

Missions

Calvary Community

Pastoral Care & Senior Adults

Lynnell Bok lbok@calvarygr.org ext. 3510

Brenda Neher community@calvarygr.org ext. 5650

Chris DeHaan missions@calvarygr.org ext. 5022

Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672

Children

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

Serving

Judie Fielstra jfielstra@calvarygr.org ext. 5095

Community Outreach Sharon Kaiser skaiser@calvarygr.org ext. 5077

Special Needs

Judi Warner jwarner@calvarygr.org ext. 5272

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

Facilities

Students

Natalie Uecker calvarystudents @calvarygr.org ext. 5181

Melissa DeBoer mdeboer@calvarygr.org ext. 5097

Technical Services

Library

Women

library@calvarygr.org ext. 5290

media@calvarygr.org

Susan Sorensen women@calvarygr.org ext. 5186

Marketing

Jackie Rice jrice@calvarygr.org ext. 5042

Worship

Kristen White kwhite@calvarygr.org ext. 5155

Men

Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618

Young Adults

Mason D. Sherrill msherrill@calvarygr.org ext. 5036

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

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March 2013

Sunday Evening Worship Service 6:00pm | Chapel

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

Children Carla | childrensministry@calvarygr.org | ext. 5067

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

KIDS N ACTION Wednesdays | 6:30-7:50pm Our desire in KIDS N ACTION is that children, five-yearsold 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.”

Refuge Wednesdays | 6:30-8:00pm | Room 109 Refuge is a great time of fun and encouragement for fifth and sixth grade students. We learn about God, gather for small groups, play games together, laugh and experience Christian community. To join, just show up.

Family Service - Easter Sunday Nursery is available for infants through two-yearolds; children preschool age and older are encouraged to attend the service with their family (activity boxes are available at the desk near Entrance N). If needed, room 254 is open for children ages three through five.

P.A.C. Attack (Party After Church) March 17 | 12:30-2:30pm | Gym | $3 P.A.C. Attack is our party after church on Sunday afternoons. P.A.C. Attacks are very simple…we play dodge ball, we eat pizza, and we play more dodge ball.

P.A.C. Attacks are a great way to make a new friend. If dodge ball’s not your thing, you can find some friends and watch a movie with us, too. (March 17 is the correct date for our P.A.C. Attack.) All attendees need a parent-signed year-long release form needed on file to participate (download at calvarystudents.com).

5th-8th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 The Main Event Sunday Mornings | 9:40am 5th/6th: Room 109 | 7th/8th: Room 108 This school year we are digging deep on Sunday and discovering how the words of Jesus fit into our everyday lives. Starting with the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and continuing right until the end, you won’t want to miss a Sunday as we discover who Jesus is, the difference He can make in our lives, and why those little red letters should be a big part of our lives. No need to register, just show up!

Student-Led Sunday March 10 | 9:40am | Room 108 Students you don’t want to miss this Sunday Morning as you are led in worship by your own middle school students for The Main Event.

No The Main Event March 31, due to Easter.

No Refuge March 27, due to Holy Week.

7th/8th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Oasis Wednesdays | 6:30-8:00pm | Room 108 Oasis is our Wednesday night small group program!

Want to go deeper, asking specific questions about topics that concern you? Want to make some close friends? Want to get to know some of our fun, caring, super skilled leaders on a more personal level? We’ll play games, worship, hear a brief talk, and break up into our small groups. To join, just show up.

No Oasis March 27, due to Holy Week.

Guys’/Girl’s Night Out (GNO) March 10 | 6:00pm-8:)0pm | Entrance J Guys | Cost $5 Join the guys for a night of bowling! Be sure to bring socks and money if you plan on eating dinner there.

Girls | Cost: $12 We will head to Craig’s Cruisers for a delicious pizza buffet and fun games!

High school calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 UNITED Sundays | 6:00-8:30pm | Room 108 Join a community of students seeking to know God and live for Him. In our current series, >Greater Than, we are going through the lives of famous Old Testament characters. As we examine their lives we can learn how to live our lives as they also direct us toward the life of Christ and how he lived. We are not just learning about Old Testament characters we are learning how they direct us to Christ.

No UNITED March 31, due to Easter.

Chicago Mission Trip Application Deadline Monday, March 4 Applications for the Chicago mission trip must be turned in by this date. The first mandatory team meeting is March 17, 12:30-1:30pm in Room 108.

Lunch is provided.

Young Adults a ministry for young adults 18-34 Mason | msherrill@calvarygr.org | ext. 5036 We were not meant to walk through this life alone, but to experience its fullness in community. That’s why we gather together to grow spiritually through age-specific teaching, edifying fellowship, and serving. The Young Adult Ministry offers three different communities where you can connect with a group that’s right for you.

College a community for young adults 18-22 Mason | msherrill@calvarygr.org | ext. 5036 College Life Thursdays | 7:00pm | Room 108 Are you interested in joining a diverse community of fellow college-aged young adults? We meet together as a community for worship, small groups, and teaching each Thursday. This is a great opportunity to build relationships with other young adults from the Grand

Rapids area and grow in our faith together. For more information contact Mason D. Sherrill.

College Discipleship On-Campus Community Groups meet on-campus 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 Jakob Jackson (jjackson@calvarygr.org).

College Ministry Lunch Sundays | 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 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 College Girls’ and Guys’ Night March 15 Hey Ladies! Do you want to get to know more of the other girls in the college ministry, build some great friendships, and have a wonderful time fellowshipping together? Then join us on March 15 for a girls night that is sure to please. Guys, lest you feel left out, you’ll be joining together for a time of male bonding and brotherhood too! If you are interested in joining in the festivities, come to College Life on Thursdays to hear more about the girls/guys nights or contact Elizabeth (ethelen@calvarygr.org).

MErge a community for single young adults ages 22-34 Sue | sschroeder@calvarygr.org | ext. 5198 Merge Sundays | 11:15am | Room 137 Join us this March as we learn how to study God’s Word and pray for our community. We will also have

a wonderful time of fellowship.

Merge Community Lunch March 10 | 12:30pm | Room 137 The Merge community will be joining together for fellowship and lunch immediately after Merge.

Sign up on Sundays to bring a salad or dessert to share. We hope to see you there!

Foundations a community for young couples ages 22-32 Mason | msherrill@calvarygr.org | ext. 5036 Sundays | 11:15am | Room 130 Join this community of young marrieds and be challenged and encouraged as you work on building a strong and lasting foundation for your marriage.

Through a combination of sermon discussion and teaching, friendly mentor couples will help guide us towards making godly decisions and form healthy life-long habits that will strengthen our relationships and help us grow in Christ.

Calvary community Brenda | community@calvarygr.org | ext. 5650 Membership Class April 27 | 9:00am-2:30pm | R.S.V.P. by April 22 We believe membership in the local church is important. Membership means commitment to learn, to be in community, and to contribute – giving back to God what He so richly gives to us. Come as a family (children 12 and older) or invite those in your community group who aren’t members to join you. Register online at MyCalvaryGR.org or contact Brenda (membership@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5650 by January 28. Pre-registration is required. Lunch is provided. Sorry, no childcare.

March 2013 | calvarygr.org | 16

Monday Night Bible Study 7:00-8:35pm | Chapel Women register in Room 114 (lower level across from the choir room) | Men register in Room 211 (upstairs near the Chapel) No per-registration is necessary.

Monday Night Bible Study is a place where men and women of all ages meet together every Monday evening through April 15 to study God’s word, for prayer and for fellowship. Our current study is The Astonishing Secret to a Joy-Filled Life: A study on the book of Philippians. Questions: Men contact Dave Thrasher at 243-6603 and women contact Carol Spencer at 9424743.

Pastoral care Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Life-Threatening Illness Support Group Are you or a loved one dealing with cancer or another life-threatening or long-term illness? Would you benefit from being part of a Christian support group?

Please 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. Occasionally we will invite a special speaker to share. For more information contact Phyllis Tack (ptackrn@yahoo.com).

Marriage Prep Workshop March 17 and 24 | 1:00-5:00pm | Yellow House We believe it is necessary to know as much as possible about each other going into marriage. It is important to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, as well as faith and fears, in order to build your relationship into all that it can be – into all that God intended it to be. Cost is $50/couple. Contact Regina for more information.

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

17 | March 2013 | calvarygr.org

invite our church family to join us. If you are willing to fast and pray with the elders, 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 Ruth Gudbrandson (rgudbrandson@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.

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), 9:159:35am, 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.

Third Monday Missionary Prayer Bring your lunch and pray for our missionaries serving around the world on the third Monday of each month at 11:30am in room 207.

Senior Adults Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Confident Caregivers March 18 | 11:30am | Room 123 As a caregiver, do you ever feel alone? Does it seem like no one really understands the burden you’re carrying? Confident Caregivers is a monthly support group for sharing needs, questions, answers and encouragement. Please join us on March 18 for “Understanding Memory Loss & Alzheimers,“ presented

by Holland Home. Be sure to RSVP by March 14 to Regina.

Hymn Sing April 14 | 7:30pm | Chapel Come lift your voices as we rejoice together with the timeless hymns you know and love. Our hymn sing will begin at 7:30pm, following the evening service.

Maury Lehmann will lead us in singing with special guest Violinist Lahlia Mangione.

Monday Monthly Luncheon March 4 | 10:20am | Fellowship Hall | Cost: $7 Kathy Kemp from John Ball Zoo will present some of their smaller animals from the Zoo. Punchbowl begins at 10:00, the program starts at 10:20 and then we enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by Calvary’s fine culinary team. Make reservations with Howard & Arlene Timmer at 365-0728, Virginia Claybrook at 940-1807 or Terry & Linda Markham at 247-8619 by February 26.

Wednesday Morning Bible Study Wednesdays | 9:30am | Chapel Join us as we study God’s word together. Mike Oatis is teaching from the book of John this winter. Refreshments are served from 9:30-9:50am, and the study begins promptly at 10:00am.

s ’ n e m Wo

y r t s i Min

Through the stories of Living Victoriously many who persevered in Difficult Times through times of testing, A Precept Ministries Study

by Kay Arthur along with hope-filled verses, you’ll discover how to find joy even when life seems unfair.

Tuesday Evening Join us for meaningful BIBLE∙ STUDY discussion with very begins April 16 little homework.

Special needs

Children and Youth Elizabeth | ethelen@calvarygr.org | ext. 5163

SOS Go-Getters (Adults with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Chapel

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 52 Bible stories.

Adult/Individuals Elleen | efitzgerald@calvarygr.org | ext. 5623

WOW Go-Getters (Adults with Special Needs) Wednesdays | 6:30pm | Chapel Go-Getters for Jesus are 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 114): 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 (215): 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 Class (Room 207): The Scripture Class is open to the larger community of the church. After a brief introduction and prayer, the students will 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.

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Seekers (Students with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 112 A calm structured environment for those who learn best with less activity. Adapted curriculum will focus more on learning about God and His love.

Women women@calvarygr.org | ext. 5186 New Six-Week Tuesday Evening Bible Study Begins April 16 | 6:30-8:00pm We will use the book “Living Victoriously in Difficult Times” by Kay Arthur, Bob & Diane Vereen. This study examines what the Bible says about suffering and why God allows it. Through the stories of many who persevered through times of testing, along with hopefilled verses, you’ll discover how to find joy even when life seems unfair. Join us for meaningful discussion with very little homework. For more information, or to register contact Women’s Ministry.

Serving opportunities

Hands of Jesus Ministry Calvary Church is seeking volunteers to contribute time and resources to help fellow Calvary families in need. Our intention is to gather information from Calvary people about skills they would be willing to use to help others, and then match them up with others as needs arise. Please prayerfully consider this opportunity for service to others! We will identify the individuals and families who need your help and connect

them with you. Contact us to gain more information or to become one of our volunteers: Glenn DeMots (gdemots@comcast.net) at 454-0232 or John Obradovich (jobradovich@hotmail.com) at 648-6992.

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).

Giving opportunities Lynnell | lbok@calvarygr.org | ext. 3510 Annual Community Food Drive Next month you will be invited to help replenish Calvary’s Food Pantry and partner with our community food pantry. Bags will be handed out on Sunday, April 14 and 21. Please fill the bags with non-perishable food items, paper products, personal care products, and cleaning supplies. Please pay attention to expiration dates. Trucks will be located in the upper and lower parking lots on Sunday morning, April 28 to collect your donations. For your convenience, bags will also be available at the Yellow House throughout the month of April.

Clothes Closet We are currently accepting cold weather items for the whole 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.

Food Pantry This month we need the following: • Floor cleaners • Non abrasive cleaners • Disinfectant cleaners for all surfaces • Mirror and glass cleaners • Dish soap • Scrub pads • Paper towels • Laundry detergent

• • • • • • • • •

Bleach Fabric softener Dryer sheets Stain remover Body soaps (soft and bars) Toothpaste Mouthwash and floss Shaving gels/ creams Razors

March 2013 sun

mon

3

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.

tue

wed

4

5

11

12

10:00am Senior Adults Monthly Luncheon

10

Daylight Savings Begins Spring Forward

thu

fri

1

sat

2

6

7

8

9

13

14

15

16

22

23

29

30

WFD Menu: Grilled Ham

WFD Menu: Meatloaf

12:30pm Merge Community Lunch 6:00pm 7th/8th Girls’/Guys’ Night Out

17

18

12:30pm 5th/6th P.A.C. Attack

11:30am Third Monday Prayer

Mandatory High School Chicago Trip Meeting

Confident Caregivers

19

20

WFD Menu: Oven Roasted Chicken

12:00pm March Madness

21

12:00pm March Madness

1:00pm Marriage Prep Workshop Begins

24 Holy Week 6:00pm Grace: Palm Sunday Musical

25

7:00am-9:00pm Prayer Garden Open

26

27

7:00am-9:00pm Prayer Garden Open

7:00am-9:00pm Prayer Garden Open

7:00am-9:00pm Prayer Garden Open

7:00am-9:00pm Prayer Garden Open

7:00pm Mental Illness Family Support Group

6:00pm Seder Dinner

7:00pm Maundy Thursday Service

Church Office Closed

No Wednesday Night Programming Due to Holy Week

Easter

28

7:00pm Good Friday Service

31

7:00, 8:10, 9:40 & 11:15am Easter Family Service

March 2013 | calvarygr.org | 19

Welcome to calvary church 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. We believe that you are not here by accident, that God has brought you to this place for a specific purpose. We look forward to connecting with you and caring for you in any way that we can.

This is a big church, we know... but you’d be surprised at how quickly you can find your place. All over this page are ways to meet people and get involved at Calvary. You will find there really is something for everyone!

Jim Samra Senior Pastor

Sundays at Calvary Connection Point

Our Connection Point is a place where you can receive a warm welcome. Whether this is your first time at Calvary or your sixteenth, the Connection Point is your place for information on connecting at Calvary Church. It is located in the Chapel wing of the building, on your right as you exit the Sanctuary, in room 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 the Adult Sunday Classes Guide at the Information Center or at calvarygr.org.

Special Needs

Adult (Go-Getters): 11:15am *Students (Seekers and Explorers): 11:15am

Chapel Rooms 112/114

*Pre-registration recommended

Children’s Ministries

Need More Info?

Go to the Connection Point located through the Sanctuary doors on the right as you exit (in the Chapel wing) or stop at the Information Center at the back of the Sanctuary.

Media Center: For past sermons or a series on CD, the Media Center is located through the Sanctuary doors on the left as you exit (in the Chapel wing).

Children’s Activity Boxes: Located inside the Sanctuary doors by the Children’s wing.

Explore Calvary This staff-led, four-week class is for people to learn more about Calvary, take a tour of the building and find out what your next steps in connecting may look like.

Contact Christy (cvanandel@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5615.

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

Young Fives - Fourth Grade: 9:40am and 11:15am Visit the check-in desk at Entrance K on the lower level to register.

Nursery Care: 8:10am, 9:40am and 11:15am For infants birth through preschool. Visit the check-in desk at Entrance M on the upper level to register.

Student Ministries

Middle School (MSM): 9:40am 5th & 6th Main Event (Studying the Life of Jesus) 7th & 8th Main Event (Studying the Life of Jesus) High School (United): 6:00pm (Studying >Greater Than)

Young Adults

Merge (Singles 22-34): 11:15am Foundations (Young Couples 22-32): 11:15am College Lunch (Young Adults 18-22): 12:30pm

Room 109 Room 108 Room 108 Room 137 Room 130 Room 121

Community is a place where you belong; a place where you develop relationships with other Christians and do life together. When you experience true community, you have close friends who meet together, pray together, grow together in God’s Word, and care for one another. In community you will be loved; you will be valued; you will be transformed more into Christ’s image. If you realize it is time to engage with people in a new way and want to be a part of a community group, visit the Connection Point on Sunday mornings or contact Brenda Neher (community@calvarygr.org).