Calvary Life, March 2014

calvary life March 2014

Radical Rescuers Unite for Missions Conference 2014... p. 5 Lent Begins March 5... p. 12 All the Games, Plus Great Food & Fun for the Family... p. 14

contents Features

Missions & Outreach

5 | Missions Conference 2014

8 | Neighbors International

Discover how you can be a radical rescuer through this year’s Missions Conference.

One family shares about their experience extending friendship to international students in our community.

10 | What We Believe

Serving

The Elders share an update on the process of updating Calvary’s statement of faith and offers ways that you can participate.

9 | Behind the Scenes With a CSI Volunteer

12 | Find Refuge in God at Lent

Program guide

The season of Lent begins March 5. Learn how we observe this season at Calvary Church.

14 | March Madness

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

Life{Together}

4 | Seeking Encouraging Words?

The Barnabas Class shares how they encourage one another in their faith each Sunday morning.

Get to know what it’s like to serve at CSI and sign up to experience it yourself this summer!

16-21 | Your One Stop Shop for All the Details on Activities at Calvary Church 22 | On the Bookshelf

This month we’re looking at fasting as a meaningful way to prepare your heart for Easter. Discover March’s recommended reading from the Calvary Library .

23 | March Calendar

Tear it out and pin it to your fridge.

4 | Calvary’s First Ever Flash Mob

Calvary’s Special Needs Ministry went in a fun new direction to advertise their annual Talent Show.

2 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

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

currently

with sharon kaiser, asst. director, local outreach

Watching… the Food Network in my spare time.

Calvary’s emergency response team — Keeping you safe

drinking… lots of water these days.

Signing up… for nothing at the moment. wearing… lots of cozy warm clothes. eating… a lot more than I should. enjoying… the snow... not really.

As a part of Calvary’s ongoing efforts to foster a safe environment and care for our congregation, we’re sharing instructions from our emergency procedures each month.

For March we’re looking at our what to do in the event of an interior lock down. An interior lock down is activated when there is an immediate physical threat to the building occupants. In the event of a lock down, building occupants and staff are instructed to secure themselves in the room they are in and not leave until the situation has been resolved. This allows emergency responders to address the immediate threat and, if necessary, remove innocent bystanders from immediate danger to an area of safe refuge.

There is an emergency procedures chart and a Help Phone in every classroom area. Detailed in the chart are instructions on what teachers/leaders should do when threatened. Calvary’s Emergency Response Team will follow the disturbance procedure to protect the building occupants and, if a lock down is activated, they will call the police.

GOOD THINGS TO REMEMBER: - Help Phones (for emergencies or general assistance) are located around the building.

- The Emergency Response Team (ERT) is on hand to assist, evaluate and take charge. They will arrive when you make a call on the help phone. ERT volunteers carry a picture ID, and Facilities staff wear uniform shirts.

thrilled… that God has led me to the missions ministry at Calvary where I can use my spiritual gifts. excited… to see what God is going to do in our family’s life this year. reading… Soul Print by Mark Batterson. laughing… at the three new cats that came into our family’s life recently. feeling… blessed by my family and friends. believing… and knowing that God has us in the palm of His hand carrying us through the tough times in life. loving… our awesome small group who are like a second family to us. sharon has been a member

of the Calvary staff for 13 years. She spends the majority of her time coordinating with local outreach ministries and overseeing short-term mission trips.

- If the above is not working, use your cell phone to dial 911.

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 3

life{together} experiencing community at calvary

seeking encouraging words of hope? barnabas is the community for you!

By barb hondorp for the barnabas class Barnabas is an Adult Sunday Class that welcomes all ages and meets every Sunday in room 212 at 11:15am, September – May. The focus of the class is discipleship. Each class member desires to learn, grow, and establish a deep personal relationship with Jesus Christ as well as develop meaningful relationships with others in the class. To that end, we encourage one another through the journey of life by caring for each other, spending time in prayer circles each week, studying Scripture, and gathering for times of fellowship. The class time is spent sharing prayer concerns, reading and searching the Scriptures, and engaging in lively discussions of the lessons prepared by our class leader.

Currently, we are studying the book of James and also inserting occasional studies from some select Psalms. While members are dedicated to the study of Scriptures, there is no lack of fun and creativity as we gather for pizza parties, ice cream socials and potlucks, holiday festivities and fun evenings together throughout the year.

If you enjoy Bible study in a smaller group setting, and seek encouraging words of hope and prayer weekly from fellow believers who have your spiritual growth at heart, you are invited to join us and share in the joy of being a follower of the God whom we love and serve.

Calvary’s first ever flash mob

By Judi Warner On February 19, the Special Needs Ministry of Calvary Church hosted their second annual Talent Show. It was a night where people of all ages, abilities and talents had the opportunity to share their gifts with others. Look for more details and pictures in the next Calvary Life.

To ensure we met our goal to welcome everyone to attend the evening, we came up with the idea of performing a “flash mob” for the Wednesday night dinner crowd. Our plan went off without a hitch.

Mitch, who loves to sing, accompanied by Pat at the piano began singing “How Great Thou Art” precisely at 5:45pm. Moments later, Don joined in along with his whole table of friends. It didn’t take long before nearly the entire dining hall was joining us in singing this great song. At the end, Mitch kindly invited everyone to join us on February 19.

Thank you to all who participated. What a great way to praise our God!

4 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

Sunday & Monday | march 23 & 24, 2014 March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 5

missions conference schedule of events

Let’s break it down. First: What’s a Rescuer? Here at Calvary, we have learned – from the life and writings of Peter – that God has a plan for the world. Boiled down to the most simple steps, the plan is: • God chooses us • We obey • God uses our obedience to rescue others

sunday, March 23 8:10, 9:40 & 11:15am Sunday morning worship with guest speaker Len Bartlotti (see bio at right)

That makes each one of us a Rescuer!

Are you praying this Lent for three people you know who need to meet Jesus?

You’re a Rescuer.

Have you been obedient to God’s call in a ministry here – helping children, students, women, men, Special Needs people, or others learn about Christ’s love and ultimate rescue of us through the cross? You’re a Rescuer.

Do you volunteer in the Grand Rapids community with a ministry that clearly shares the Gospel? You’re a Rescuer.

Are you living out the specific life God has designed for you – with its own submissions and sufferings – faithfully in front of a watching world? You’re a Rescuer, too!

Now, where does the Radical part come in? The next step in obedience is to recognize that not everyone who needs Christ looks like us. God’s Word teaches that the Gospel is for people of every tribe, language, people and nation. Sometimes radical obedience to that mind-boggling truth means embracing His call to pray, love, send and go to the nations. For all of us, radical obedience means recognizing – and sharing Jesus’ love with – the nations right here on our doorstep.

Join us March 23 and 24 for our 2014 Mission Conference: Radical Rescuers!

Worship the King of Kings who chooses us for this role in his rescue mission.

Be challenged by his Word and the depth of the privilege He has given us to work with him. Learn ways to respond to those around you – at work, school and in your neighborhood – who are from a different culture and religion. Find out how you can challenge your heart even more deeply. And see what others in your Calvary family are doing, and how you can join them. Then pray with us for the Holy Spirit to move us out as God’s Radical Rescuers.

6 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

sunday, March 23 6:00pm | sanctuary Play the “Calvary Challenge” quiz! Learn the scope of “the nations” in West Michigan. Celebrate how God has used Calvary people to reach out.

Fellowship around dessert and learn about next step opportunities.

Monday, March 24 noon | Fellowship hall As we close this year’s conference, we invite everyone to join us at an interactive prayer luncheon. even if you work, join us for 30-50 minutes, enjoy a box lunch, and choose 3-5 interactive stations to learn and pray for missionaries, God’s work around the world, our community and your role. sign up for lunch (free) at MyCalvaryGR.org.

Guest speAker: len BArtlotti March 23, Morning Worship Services rev. leonard (len) Bartlotti is a passionate speaker, teacher and mission strategist. he served 14 years in central Asia among one of the world’s largest muslim peoples.

A specialist in the Anthropology of islam, he taught islamics and intercultural studies on the faculties of the oxford centre for mission studies, Biola university and at columbia international university. he currently travels as a lecturer, mobilizer and consultant to humanitarian agencies and teams working in islamic contexts. len and his wife, debi, live in southern california. they have three married children, five grandchildren and one bicultural (cockapoo) dog.

don’t miss the “cAlvAry chAllenGe” March 23, 6:00PM Join us to test your knowledge (and learn!) about our very own Grand rapids area. for example: 1)

how many muslims live in kent and ottawa counties? a) b) c) d)

650 3,500 25,000 47,000

2) What organization helps refugees settle in West michigan? a) b) c) d)

Bethany christian services neighbors international mel trotter ministries All of the above

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 7

Neighbors Internati nal What is it like to be a friendship family to an international college student? here is one example from dan and Jean vanhorn. i couldn’t tell you how many times the volunteer request for the neighbors international college students program was listed in the bulletin before it caught my eye, but i recall thinking “hey, i could do that”. i wish we had responded much sooner. in the two years our family has been involved, we’ve become good friends with students from india, china, Africa, slovakia, and england. the experiences and conversations we’ve shared have broadened our horizons and opened the global community up to us right here in our town. the premise of neighbors international is to become a helpful and caring resource to students visiting from abroad for a u.s. college experience or degree. We hope to show the love of christ through friendship and hospitality.

8 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

If you are interested in becoming a friendship family or partner, for students arriving next fall, or would simply like more information please contact Sonja at neighbors_international@calvarygr.org or call 616-676-7292. so how do you do this, what do you do? typically the students have no transportation, so simply getting them off campus is a welcome retreat. food is always appropriate; we discovered the international food is pizza! We’ve had trips to the lake michigan beach, walking tours of downtown Gr, visits to calvary services, stops at krispy kreme, cooking classes, boat rides, game nights and occasionally holidays shared. our goal is at least one activity per month. the neighbors international leadership team provide guidelines, resources and help as needed, as well as prayer support.

Being a friend can also mean help with apartment hunting, holding hands in a hospital waiting area, providing a break from exam studies, sympathy for homesickness, and assistance with travel plans.

But on the other hand, it has meant shared cultural meals, a newfound respect for deep desire for education, sincere gratitude from students, and fascinating conversations and comparisons regarding their homelands including lots of laughs about the contrasts. the downside is . . . they graduate and leave! But it’s never been easier to keep in touch, and our shared experiences allow for continued communication, hopefully indefinitely.

We truly couldn’t imagine not having these students in our lives, and highly recommend anyone interested to follow up quicker than we did. We consider it a privilege to be involved; the rewards far outweigh the time invested.

Jean for the Van Horns, (Dan, Dana, Megan and Cameron)

Electricity, Amazing Plants and Birds of Prey

June 10-12 | 9:30am–Noon Behind the Scenes with CSI Volunteer - Tim Todish Why did you choose to serve at CSI? I had been on the lookout for an opportunity to serve at Calvary.

I was involved with youth ministry at our previous church and really enjoyed it so this seemed like a great opportunity.

What did you enjoy most about serving in CSI? It was great spending each morning with the kids in our group and getting to know them, even it was only for a couple days. The best part however, was hearing the Sanctuary filled with the voices of all those children singing praises to God. It’s incredible! Also, the Andy band. Who doesn’t love the Andy Band?

How did God bless you through serving?

God inspired me to continue serving in the Children’s Ministry at Calvary. I’m currently serving in Karate Kids during the Wednesday night Kids N’ Action program, and loving it!

What would you say to someone who thought about serving in CSI? Do it! It’s fun, it’s easy and it’s rewarding. You don’t find that combination too often, snatch it up.

Now is the time to sign up to serve at CSI 2014! If you have been part of the CSI team in the

past, you know what a blast it is, and the impact it can have on kids for eternity. If you have never volunteered for CSI, why not consider it this year? Please register yourself to serve at calvarygr.org. If you have any questions, contact Children’s Ministry (csi@calvarygr.org) at 956-5661.

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 9

Last year we introduced a one-page document to the congregation called “What We Believe” and a longer, more detailed paper called “What We Teach.” These documents were the result of about five years of prayer and study by the elders and others as our church seeks to update the doctrinal statement in our Calvary Church Constitution.

Last fall, we voted as a congregation to adopt these documents for a single year, using them in new members’ classes and other teaching settings, in order to allow plenty of time for congregational questions and feedback. Our intent is to use your suggestions to help us craft a final version that is strong, clear and faithful to God’s Word.

A final version of the one-page “What We Believe” document will be available for review this summer and ready for a congregational vote at our Annual Meeting this fall, with the goal of permanent adoption into the Constitution of Calvary Church. This one-page document will be a central statement of faith that all members of Calvary should be able to support.

The longer document, called “What We Teach,” will serve as a guide to our pastors and teachers. It will describe more specific beliefs at Calvary, including areas where Christ-followers may differ in opinion. Unlike the shorter statement, the “What We Teach” document will not be made part of the church’s official Constitution.

What You Can Do If you have not yet read the documents, the entire “What We Believe” statement is printed at right. We encourage you to read it, and pick up the longer “What We Teach” document from the Information Center. Please direct all questions or comments—including any specific wording suggestions--about “What We Believe” and “What We Teach” to elders@calvarygr.org by April 30.

In addition, please join us in praying that God will use the revision and implementation of our doctrinal statement as an opportunity to strengthen our faith and to bind our hearts together in unity as we affirm our core beliefs.

Thank you for your contributions to this process.

10 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

Revelation We believe that in addition to his general revelation in nature, God has revealed himself in all the words of the Old and New Testaments. These well-preserved and infallible books contain no errors in the original writings and are our final authority in faith and life.

These sacred texts lead us to Jesus Christ, the fullness of God’s revelation, and enable us to rightly interpret God’s active engagement in humanity, nature, and history.

God We believe in one holy, sovereign, and all-knowing God who eternally exists in three coequal persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Father directs and sustains all things through his Son and by his Spirit. The Son is the mediator through whom God creates, governs, and redeems the world. The Spirit accomplishes the works of God, bringing honor to the Son who glorifies the Father, so that God is perfectly satisfied within himself. This triune God from love and for his glory created all things out of nothing and pronounced them good.

Humanity

Holy Spirit

The Church

Angels and Demons

We believe that God created Adam and Eve in his image so that they might love him and steward this world on his behalf. However, our first parents lost their original righteousness when they fell for Satan’s temptation and rebelled against God’s revealed will. Now every human is born with Adam’s sinful nature so that we are depraved, alienated from God, spiritually dead and physically dying. Our sin has corrupted God’s good creation, bringing discord and disaster to society and nature. The world would immediately perish if not for God’s common grace, which restrains sin and preserves creation so that God’s special grace can save it.

We believe that the Holy Spirit is a fully divine person who is sent by the Father and the Son. He convicts the world of guilt in regard to sin, righteousness, and judgment; persuades us through the proclamation of the gospel to confess Jesus as Lord; and abides within us as our comforter, helper, and guide.

We believe that the one, holy, and universal church is the body and bride of Christ.

The Holy Spirit descended at Pentecost to establish the church. The true church consists of all New Testament believers in heaven and on earth who have been justified by grace through faith in Christ and is manifest in local churches that assemble in the name of the Lord. The local church gathers to worship God and experience his presence through the preaching of the word, prayer, fellowship, the exercise of spiritual gifts, and the ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Calvary Church practices believer’s baptism). The church disperses to proclaim the gospel of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection to a sinful world, which must hear the good news in order to be saved. The church makes disciples of Jesus who embody the kingdom values of loving neighbor, serving those in need, and caring for creation and so anticipate the final redemption of all things at Christ’s return.

We believe that angels are spiritual beings created by God to serve and worship him. The righteous angels are God’s messengers who promote his rule and protect his children by battling Satan and the fallen angels who joined his rebellion. Satan and his demons are the sworn enemies of God. They gained a foothold in this world when Eve, then Adam fell for Satan’s temptation, but they have been defeated by Christ and will be forever punished in the lake of fire.

Jesus Christ We believe that the Son of God became human to save the world. Our Lord Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man, one person in two natures, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. Jesus is the promised Messiah of Israel who obeyed God perfectly; atoned for our sins by shedding his blood in our place and on our behalf, arose bodily and triumphantly over Satan, sin, and death, and ascended to heaven where he reigns over all things at the Father’s right hand, intercedes for his people, and sends his Spirit to gift, fill, and lead his church.

Salvation We believe all who repent of their sin and trust solely in Christ’s finished work of atonement, salvation, and redemption are united with Christ, justified by his death and resurrection, reborn and adopted into the family of God, forgiven of all their sin, indwelt and illuminated by the Spirit, empowered for Christian service, kept and assured of their salvation, and added to the church.

The Return of Christ We believe in the personal, bodily and premillennial return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus will gloriously return at any moment. He will bring his kingdom to completion by delivering this world from Satan’s power and handing it to the Father. He will raise the dead physically for final judgment; send the lost to everlasting, conscious punishment; and live forever with his redeemed people in the joys of the renewed creation.

What We Believe March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 11

lent? what is

During the early centuries of the church, a number of traditions sprung up as ways to teach Christians about the life of Christ and to create opportunities to practice the spiritual disciplines. Together, these traditions form the seasons of the church calendar.

Because of its connection with Christ’s resurrection and our new life in Him, Easter has historically been a time when new believers are baptized. The forty days before Easter came to be recognized as the season of Lent (a Latin word that simply means “spring”), a season when new converts were prepared for baptism.

The period of forty days was chosen to reflect the time that Jesus spent in the wilderness to prepare for ministry and be tempted by Satan (Matthew 4).

For new converts in the early church, this forty days of preparation included biblical instruction, prayer, repentance and fasting.

In time, the practices of Lent were embraced by the entire church, not just new converts who were preparing for baptism. Over the centuries, the church’s observation of the Lenten season has at times changed, or even been abused or neglected, but its purpose has always been self-examination and spiritual preparation leading up to Holy Week and Easter. The fruit of Lent is a deeper relationship with God and a more mindful and exuberant celebration of Easter in six weeks.

lent find refuge in God at

March 5 - April 20, 2014

how do we observe lent at

calvary?

At Calvary, we feel it is important for us to practice the spiritual disciplines of prayer, fasting and giving as Jesus encouraged in Matthew 6. Lent provides a wonderful opportunity to do this together, as a church body. Participating in Lent is completely voluntary and in no way earns favor with God. While our church understands that Lent has become legalistic in some corners of Christendom, and has been long neglected in others, our hope is that an organized approach will help us grow spiritually.

This year, Lent begins on Wednesday, March 5, and ends at Easter. This equals forty-six days, because we exempt Sundays. Traditionally, Lenten fasts are suspended on Sundays when God’s people gather to celebrate in worship.

£

prayer During Lent, we take extra time to pray and 1) thank Jesus for what He endured for us; 2) pray that those who do not know Jesus will come to have faith in Him. We encourage you to choose three people in your life who do not know Jesus and pray specifically for them every day throughout the period of Lent. Pray that their hearts will be open to God’s love. Pray that God will create opportunities for them to experience His grace and love during Lent. Pray that they will come to a saving faith in Jesus.

fasting The season of Lent has historically been observed by setting aside certain foods and non-essential activities.

When you set aside something that is normally a part of your daily life, you are reminded throughout each day of what Christ has done for you and you are given an occasion to pause, reflect and pray.

This year, we are encouraging our congregation to consider fasting from an area of technology. Our modern lives are shaped heavily by the technology we use, and it can easily influence our relationships with others and with God. Taking some time to purposefully step away from technology will enable us to focus our attention and our hope where it belongs: on God.

giving As we pray and fast in preparation for Easter, we especially think about Jesus’ sacrifice for us and the mercy and grace that God has poured into our lives.

Take time during Lent to express thankfulness to God in prayer and ask for His guidance about how you might tangibly live out your gratitude by extending God’s grace to others and building His kingdom.

More details on all elements of our lent practice are included in our Observing Lent guide available in the back of the Sanctuary and at calvarygr.org.

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 13

MARCH

MADNESS 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 festive, family-friendly 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.

On Thursday, we are excited to welcome special guest, former Detroit Lions kicker Jason Hanson, to share with us during the dinner hour. Invite your friends, family and neighbors to join you for this always enjoyable annual event.

RSVP online at MyCalvaryGR.org. Everyone who registers online gets an additional entry in our daily prize drawing (must be present to win)!

14 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

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

March 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

Men

Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618

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

*

March 5 - Oven Pot Roast Just like Sunday dinner — slow roasted beef served with traditional sides.

• New potatoes • Carrots • Pan gravy made fresh from the drippings • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: Hamburger with bun

March 19 - House Smoked “Carolina Rub” Pulled Pork on a Bun Slow smoked/cooked pork with a slight sweet taste piled high on a 4” roll.

• Kettle Cooked Potato Chips • Austin, Texas-style baked beans • Cole slaw on the salad bar • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: Breaded Chicken Tenders

March 12 - Old Fashioned Pancake Supper On this night, we’ll convert the salad bar to a toppings bar with maple, apple and cherry syrups.

• Three Buttermilk Pancakes • Cheesy Cheddar Scrambled Eggs • Two Sausage Links • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: French Toast Sticks

March 26 - Oven Roasted Turkey • Whipped Potatoes with Turkey Gravy • Green Beans with Country Bacon • Kid’s Bonus Entrée: Breaded Cheese Sticks with Marinara Sauce

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

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

By the middle of a busy week, 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 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 can accommodate for you.

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

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 15

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

BookCoins are plastic coins imprinted with books of the Bible that elementary-age children can earn as they read through an entire book of the Bible.

Parents must verify their children have read through an entire book of the Bible and sign a “Book Note” saying the child has done so. Book Notes will be available in our weekly newsletter (the Crow’s Nest News). Bring the signed “Book Note” to the check-in desks at Entrance K or M to collect your coin.

Family Road Map Class Sundays, March 2-30 | 9:40am Room 207 | 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. Also, Lisa Samra will be a guest speaker to present on guiding your children through adolescence. Family Road Map guidebook provided free of charge. RSVP to (childrensministry@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5067.

KIDS-N-Action Wednesdays | 6:30-7:50pm

Our desire is that children, five-yearsold through fourth grade, understand what God says in the Bible, believe it, & obey it in their daily lives. KIDS-NACTION 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!

Student Led Sunday March 16 | 9:40am | Room 108

Parents, join us as we have our own middle school students lead The Main Event worship in room 108.

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: Party After Church March 2 | 12:30-2:30pm | Gym | $1

Students, Party after Church is your chance to play dodgeball, watch a movie, eat pizza, and play even more! This is a great way to make a new friend.

(Parent-signed, year-long release form needed on file to participate.)

Parents, we’ve purposefully created these Party After Church events for your students to get to know one another in a “non-classroom” environment. And this month’s P.A.C. is only $1, since our last party ended early! Also, you are welcome to volunteer and get a glimpse of your student while they interact with their peers at our Party After Church.

Contact Lee (lbergakker@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5175.

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!

7th/8th: GNO (Guys’/Girls’ Night Out) March 9 | 6:00-8:00pm | Entrance J Register at MyCalvaryGR.org

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 all the fun games!

(Parent-signed, year-long release form needed on file to participate.)

7th/8th: Oasis Out - March 26

Parents, Oasis Out is when your student’s small group meets at various venues

16 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

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: 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.

March Madness March 20-21 | Noon to Midnight | Gym

Bring friends and head on over to the church after school to watch the basketball games, eat good food (free will donation) and win some prizes (you must be present to win).

Young Adults a ministry for young adults 18-34 Natalie | ext. 5181 youngadults@calvarygr.org We were not meant to walk through this life alone, but to experience its fullness in community. That’s why we gather together to grow spiritually through age-specific teaching, edifying fellowship, and serving. The Young Adult Ministry offers three different communities where you can connect with a group that’s right for you.

Young Adult Worship Night March 13 | 7:00pm | Chapel

Calling all Young Adults, carve out some time to focus on Christ and worshiping

Him. It will be an uplifting time of singing and meditating on scripture together. Bring a friend.

Pre-Rewire Young Adult Dinners March 2 - 16 | 5:15pm | Room 121

Through 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 Life Thursdays Beginning March 20 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, Beginning March 23 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.

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 17

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!

Group locations available at calvarygr. org. For more information, contact Natalie (nuecker@calvarygr.org).

College Girls’/Guys’ Night March 28

Grounded: Sunday Night with Merge March 23 | 7:00pm | Clique Coffee Bar 1600 East Beltline NE

Before you begin another week, get grounded with Merge. Enjoy encouraging fellowship as we play games and share coffee together. We’ll also reflect on a spiritual topic and discuss together how we can lay the groundwork for our faith as we head out into the world.

See the details under “Foundations” in the middle column.

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

Foundations Hey Ladies! Do you want to get to know a community for engaged and newly Confidential professional marriage counseling is available by contacting more of the other girls in college minmarried young adults ages 22-34 Regina Scovill (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at istry, build some great friendships, and have a wonderful time together? Then join us 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 or contact Natalie Uecker (nuecker@cavlarygr.org).

Foundations Sundays, Beginning March 23 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.

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.

Planning for Marriage?

Marriage Prep Workshop April 27 & May 4 | 1:00-5:00 pm | Yellow House

Merge a community for single young adults Note: Foundations will not meet on Sundays A two-week class for engaged couples ages 22-34 Merge Sundays Beginning March 23 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.

through March 16. See Pre-Rewire Young Adults Dinner for more information.

Foundations Potluck March 30 | 12:30pm | Room 130/132

Look for the sign-up sheet in class on Sundays.

Marriage enrichment Regina | ext. 3672 Note: Merge will not meet on Sundays rscovill@calvarygr.org through March 16. See Pre-Rewire Young Adults Dinner for more information.

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

Unlocking the man code with Dennis Swanberg

sAve the dAte! Calvary Church Men’s Conference coming saturday, May 17 visit calvarygr.org for details!

18 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

to help prepare for marriage. This workshop is required in order to be married at Calvary Church. Free for Calvary brides & grooms, $25 per couple for others. For more information, contact Lynnell (lbok@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3510. Register at MyCalvaryGR.org.

Threshold

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

Men Lou | ext. 3618 men@calvarygr.org Men’s Breakfast March 8 | 8:00-10:00am | Fellowship Hall Cost: $5 (Register at MyCalvaryGR.org) Please join us to hear Craig Johnson, former Calvary missionary to the Philippines. He and his wife, Dorothy became missionaries to the Philippines in 1990 and worked there for 20 years, supported by Calvary Church. In 2010 the Johnsons’ mission organization turned its Philippine ministries over to Filipino

church leaders, and the Johnson’s returned home to Grand Rapids to begin a new chapter of life and ministry.

pastoral care Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org Eating and Body Image Support Group March 10 | 7:00pm | Yellow House

ment, personal difficulties, a spiritual crises or perhaps even an addiction?

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

Join this guided discussion group, meeting on the second Monday of the month, for women (18+) offering a spiritual perspective on eating and body image issues as well as prayer and support. For more information, contact Jen (mieatingdisordersalliance@gmail.com)

Stephen Ministers are trained lay members of the Calvary Church congregation who will listen, care, encourage, provide emotional and spiritual support and help you bring Christ’s presence into focus in your life on a confidential basis. If you would like to learn more about how a Stephen Minister can help you, call Regina Scovill at ext. 3672.

Cancer Support Group

Prayer groups

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 March 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.

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 March 3 | 10:30am | Fellowship Hall

Join us for a presentation by Steve and Linda Hamlet. They will do scenes featuring biblical characters. You won’t want to miss this! Punchbowl is 10:0010:20am. Lunch is served after the program at noon. Reservations must be made one week in advance by contacting: Howard & Arlene Timmer (hrtakt@ iserv.net) at 365-0728, Terry & Linda Markham at 247-8619.

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

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.

Stephen Ministers Available

Do you need a listening ear? Are you struggling with tough times, un-employ-

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 19

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

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

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

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

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

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

The focus is not on singing ability.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adapted curriculum based on the 66 books of the Bible will focus on learn-

20 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

ing about God and His love throughout His Word.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday Evening Bible Study New Study Begins March 18 | 6:30pm

Calvary’s Women’s Ministry is offering, Discovering What the Future Holds, an 8-week study beginning March 18.

All Tuesday evening Bible studies are inductive, no homework studies by Precept Ministries. This study is designed for women whose schedules don’t allow them to attend our Tuesday morning Gathering Place Study and still want to dig into God’s Word with other women.

The cost for the study is $10 and you will receive your book the first night. Register at MyCalvaryGR.org.

Volleyball Mondays | 6:00pm | Gym

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

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

Serving Opporunities Hands of Jesus Ministry

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

Shut-In Ministry

If you have a heart of mercy for those who are lonely and compassion for those who are suffering, please prayerfully consider joining the Shut-In Ministry Team. This ministry is dedicated to reaching out to Calvary members who are no longer able to attend church services and functions. For questions, contact Rich Dyer (richguy101@sbcglobal.net).

Stephen Ministry Volunteers

Would you like to minister in people’s lives when they need it most? Stephen Ministers are members of the Calvary

Church congregation who will, on an entirely confidential one-on-one basis, provide listening, caring and encouragement. To learn more about how to become a Stephen Minister, contact Regina (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672.

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

Help us prepare for spring with the following: light-weight jackets, short-sleeve shirts, cotton sweaters and dresses for women and girls, dress pants and shirts for men and boys. Donations may be dropped off at the Yellow House (on Bradford Street) and are tax exempt. If you have any questions, please call Lynnell.

Food Pantry

We are preparing for spring cleaning, 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 2014 | calvarygr.org | 21

On The Bookshelf

fasting: a meaningful way to prepare your heart during the season of lent The idea of fasting--the voluntary denial of something for a specific time, for a spiritual purpose--sets us immediately on edge. But Lynne Baab makes the case that anyone can fast.

In Fasting you’ll discover an ancient Christian practice that extends beyond giving up food to any regular activity in our contemporary lives. You’ll see how taking a break from eating--or checking e-mail, or watching television--opens us up to discover new things about ourselves and God and the world around us. You’ll see that anyone can step out of routine to feed the soul.

In New York Times Best-Seller, Fasting, Franklin explains the spiritual power of fasting and offers a deeper understanding of God’s plan for fasting and the benefits available to those who participate. Those who seek God through fasting can expect tremendous rewards for their personal lives as well as for the church. They will see breakthroughs in many areas such as healing, finances, unhealthy dependencies and family relationships. This book also gives stories of those who have reaped miraculous rewards from this simple act of faith.

The church year is a uniquely Christian way of marking time. When Kimberlee Conway Ireton began to understand this, even the most ordinary incidents of her life began to resonate with the stories of Scripture. In this book, Kimberlee follows the structure of the church calendar, and provides practical things you can do individually or with your family during the different seasons, including for the weeks leading up to Easter. In a word, The Circle of Seasons offers you structure--a simple and traditional way of building your life around your faith, rather than the other way around.

Widely recognized as the expert on this 21-day fast inspired by the book of Daniel, Susan Gregory has helped thousands of people discover a safe and healthy way to fast. The principles you learn from The Daniel Fast will change the way you view food, your body, and your relationship with the one who created you. Includes 21 days’ worth of Daniel Fast recipes.

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.

22 | March 2014 | calvarygr.org

sun

mon

tue

March 2014

wed

thu

fri

1

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.

2 9:40am Family Road Map Class Begins

3

4

10:00am 55+ Leisure Luncheon

6:00pm 7th/8th: GNO

10

5:00pm WFD: Pot Roast

11

7:00pm Eating and Body Image Support Group

16

17

9:40am 5th-8th: Student-Led Sunday at the Main Event

23 Radical Rescuers: Missions Conference 6:00pm Calvary Challenge

30

12:00pm Missions Conference Prayer Luncheon

7

12

8 8:00am Men’s Breakfast

13

14

15

20

21

22

5:00pm 7:00pm WFD: Pancake Supper Young Adult Worship Night

18 6:30pm Women’s Tuesday Evening Bible Study Begins New Session

24

6 7:00pm Girls Night

Lent Begins

12:30pm 5th/6th: Party After Church

9

5

sat

25

19 5:00pm WFD: Pulled Pork

26

12:00pm March Madness

12:00pm March Madness

27

10:30am Veggie Tales Family Movie

28

29

7:00pm 5:00pm Mental Illness Family WFD: Oven Roasted Support Group Turkey 6:30pm 7th-8th: Oasis Out

31

12:30pm Foundations Potluck

March 2014 | calvarygr.org | 23

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).