calvary life november 2014
Build Your Kingdom Here - Open Door Project... p. 6 A Christmas Carol, Like You’ve Never Seen it Before... p. 11
grace BEYOND
FAQs... p. 10
contents Features
Missions & Outreach
Save the date for these events designed to help you savor and celebrate the upcoming Christmas season.
Learn more about Calvary’s 2014-2015 Open Door Project cenetered around establishing and nurturing churches - locally, nationally and globally.
3 | Coming This Holiday Season
5 | Thanksgiving Eve Potluck & Service
On the eve of Thanksgiving we invite you to gather with your church family for a potluck followed by a special worship service focused on gratitude.
10 | Grace Beyond FAQs
This month we’re shining a spotlight on questions related to finances and pledging.
11 | A Christmas Carol
This year’s Festival of Lights production brings a fresh spirit to a traditional classic.
6 | Build Your Kingdom Here
Program guide
13-17 | Your One Stop Shop for All the Details on Activities at Calvary Church 18 | On the Shelf
This November, we invite you to get lost in even more fascinating journeys leading to God!
19 | November Calendar
Tear it out and stick it to your fridge.
Life{Together}
4 | Displaying the Beauty of God’s Word Through a Mission Trip
Pastoral Resident and Guyana trip participant Vida Wilson shares about the unique ways God bonded together her mission trip teammates this past summer.
5 | Behind the Scenes with Calvary’s Ushers Head usher Chad Stabler gives you an inside look at what it’s like to serve as an usher.
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Calvary Church Phone: (616) 956-9377 Address: 707 E Beltline NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525
currently with vida wilson, pastoral resident
Watching… live concerts. drinking… COFFEE!
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signing up… for kickboxing classes. teaching… that God doesn’t waste a thing. wearing… the least amount of jewelry possible. eating… anything with lots of sugar.
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enjoying… learning about how amazing the church really is.
Advent Begins When we observe Advent, we are looking to Christ with great expectation in three ways: 1) We read the promises of Christ’s birth, and wait expectantly with His people for His coming (which we celebrate at Christmas). 2) We read the promises for God’s presence in our lives, and we live in the confidence that this provides. 3) We read the promises of Christ’s second coming, and we live in the hope of His final victory over sin and death. To walk you through this season, 2014 Advent guides will be available in mid-November for individuals and families to pick up at the Information Center at the back of the Sanctuary.
Young Adults Christmas Party December 3 | 7:00-10:00pm | Cost: $10 Downtown Market (435 Ionia SW) All young adults are invited to a Christmas Soirée in twinkling downtown Grand Rapids. Enjoy an evening of festive music and fancy hors’ dourves as we gather to celebrate in a spirit of joy at the Downtown Market. Invite your friends and then get tickets at MyCalvaryGR.org.
A Christmas Carol Begins See more details about this year’s Festival of Lights production on page 11.
excited… to see how God is going to show up as we move forward with the building project. reading… United: Captured by God’s Vision for Diversity. laughing… at my many awkward moments feeling… assured that God is working out His plans in ways much more amazing than I could imagine. believing… that God has made all people so unique and beautiful. vida has been an employee of Calvary Church for one year. She spends the majority of her time spend trying to figure out how to balance life.
LUMIN8 Christmas Musical
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Be sure to join us for this year’s Lumin8 Children’s Choir Christmas musical. More details to come in December.
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Christmas Eve Service
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thrilled… to be mentored by amazing people here at Calvary, especially Lee Content.
We invite you to make Calvary’s Christmas Eve service part of your holiday tradition. Join us at 5:00, 7:30 or 10:00pm.
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life{together} experiencing community at calvary
displaying the beauty of god’s word through a mission trip Vida Wilson, Pastoral Resident If you have ever been on a mission trip with a team, then you understand the kind of community that develops from that experience, and if you haven’t, then you should definitely keep reading. Before, during, and after a trip, there is a bond that is built as God carries out His plans to use the team as a means of displaying His grace. That bond is embedded within the definition of community as a unified body of individuals. A mission trip is a kind of shared experience as believers that allows us to see the beauty of many different members working together as one body in love. This was the case during the short-term trip that a group of 23 of us took to Guyana, South America in mid-August. God brought us together — different genders, ages, and occupations to serve Him, but also to reveal truth about His character and how He works divinely through a body of diverse members bound by one mission. In Guyana we sought to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ through a vacation Bible school and nightly crusades. As we began the planning process for these events, we quickly found it necessary to divide up responsibilities, everyone gravitating to areas in which they were gifted. Some were excited to pick out worship songs, others were gifted in acting and performed skits every night for the crusades. We had a detailed vacation Bible school developer and coordinator, a skilled photographer, people who loved to work with children, and that is only naming a few.
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During our trip, while we all had different tasks that we enjoyed, God inevitably brought each of us challenging assignments to stretch us. For some it was sharing their testimony or preaching for the first time. For many of us, it was walking up to someone we had never met before and asking them if they would like to entrust their lives to Jesus. We see people with diverse gifts working together all the time in our daily lives, but on a mission trip, when you are with the same people twenty-four hours a day for however long the trip is, these differences have the tendency to become more apparent. As humans our natural tendency is to criticize difference. Therefore, living so closely together on a mission for Jesus Christ gives us the opportunity to newly discover the truth in, and live out what Paul talks about in 1 Corinthians 12. Early on in the chapter, Paul shares that there are a variety of gifts given to believers that all come from the Lord. He uses the analogy of a body and its many members to help us understand how crucial our differences are. In verse 18-20 he says, “But as it is, God arranged the members of the body, each one of them as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.” It is a blessing to be able serve Christ, and to allow the truth of His word to be displayed in our lives. Being a part of a community is a must in order for this to happen, and a mission trip is just one of the many ways we can practically live out our faith and experience oneness in Christ.
Thanksgiving Eve potluck & service
Wednesday, November 26 5:30pm | Gym
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To help us know how many to expect, we ask that you register at MyCalvaryGR.org or contact the church office at 956-9377 by Nov. 23.
We will begin the night with a churchwide potluck. Calvary will provide the main dish and we ask that you bring side dishes (one per family) or desserts. This is a great opportunity to share your favorite salad, casserole, stuffing, pie or cake with your church family. Following our meal, please join us in the Sanctuary at 7:00pm as we share testimonies of the goodness of our God.
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build your
here OPEN DOOR PROJECT 2014-2015 Through our 2014 Open Door project, we have the opportunity to help establish and nurture churches - locally, nationally and globally. We will be blessed to be a part of God’s kingdom being built among Native Americans, as we support our Children’s Pastor Joel Shank, who has been called to plant a church on the San Carlos reservation. We will be blessed to be a part of God’s kingdom being built among the persecuted in the Middle East, as we support partners who are working with Christians who have fled ISIS. We will be blessed to be a part of God’s kingdom being built among the alienated and unchurched in our own country, as we support church plants in areas that are quickly becoming post-Christian. And, we will be blessed to be part of God’s kingdom being built among our local community right here in Grand Rapids, as we help equip a Calvary resident to serve as student’s pastor at Wellspring Community Church in Hudsonville. Will you join with Calvary’s Open Door project to help establish and nurture churches? Our target this year is to raise $244,000. Return your Open Door project giving envelope by mail or in the offering plate any Sunday. You can give to the Open Door project all year long, simply by marking a regular giving envelope with “ODP.” You may also give online at MyCalvaryGR.org. And don’t forget to pick up a present for our friends at Urban Family Ministries and return it to church by December 7. Many local families were touched last year by your sharing in Jesus’ name!
Help us
undecorate the trees at Calvary, and bring the love of God to needy families in Grand Rapids
Last year, Urban Family Ministries hosted a Christmas Shoppe, where families in need could purchase discounted gifts for one another. Calvary families helped make this possible by taking an ornament from trees in our building and bringing back items which could be sold. Our gifts this year will continue this empowering tradition. Trees will be decorated in our lobbies on November 9 with ornaments marked with gifts needed by Urban Family Ministries. Please take an ornament, and return your gift to the boxes in the Calvary CafĂŠ by December 7.
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Behind the Scenes with Calvary’s Ushers The entire crew gathered for a group photo a few weeks ago, and then Chad Stabler took a few minutes to answer a few questions about serving as an usher. Where do you currently serve at Calvary? I’m the head Usher for 3rd service, I participate in a prayer ministry with Stacy Armbrester, and I pray with the United Parents. How did you begin serving at Calvary? I started serving in the children’s ministry when my daughter was in preschool. I moved to ushering when Dane Bjork asked me to help usher one day. I’ve been doing that ever since.
I’ve always supported and prayed for missionaries, but so much seems to have changed. What’s going on?
What challenges have you encountered in your ministry? I had to step outside my comfort zone and start engaging with people more and talking to people I don’t know. I also have had challenges that all volunteer areas have with lacking enough volunteers from time to time. How has God blessed you through serving? God has taught me that he will provide. He provides me with strength to go outside my comfort zone and there have been countless blessings of engaging with people and helping make their church experience better. He has also shown that He provides people to help when it is needed.
I think God might want me in ministry someday – but where and doing what?
How do missionaries even begin to communicate the truth about Jesus with all the cultural differences they face? And what about people from other cultures right here?
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How do you experience community at Calvary? I am part of a small group with the Kamil’s. I also find community among the people who serve during worship: greeters, information booth, parking, security and of course ushers. We all help and serve each other and the congregation and I’ve truly enjoyed this work and the fellowship of others who have servant’s hearts.
Looking for your place to serve at Calvary Church? Contact our Serving Coordinator Stacy Armbrester (sarmbrester@calvarygr.org) at Ext. 5095!
Wow! Nothing but bad news in the media these days. Is God really at work in the world today?
I know Jesus said ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel.’ How does that fit with everything else in the Bible?
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Got questions like these? This winter, right here at Calvary, you’ll have the opportunity to dig deeply into all these areas in the Perspectives course. Perspectives on the World Christian Movement is the premiere course on missions today, looking at the Biblical, historical, cultural and strategic aspects of fulfilling the Great Commission. For more information, contact missions@ calvarygr.org or visit perspectives.org.
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Join us for the Perspectives course at Calvary:
January 13 – April 2 Tuesdays, 6:00-9:00pm Room 108
Cost: $230 – Early sign-up and family discounts available – Scholarships available Can be taken for certificate, college or graduate credit – High schoolers also welcome
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grace BEYOND FAQs This month we’re taking a look at your frequently asked questions about Grace Beyond finances. Now that the congregation has affirmed Grace Beyond, when will the pledge process begin? Grace Beyond giving brochures and pledge cards will be available beginning Sunday, February 15, 2015. Prior to that date, the elders are asking the congregation to spend time prayerfully considering what the Lord is asking each person to give toward Grace Beyond.
Beyond committees will not know what you have given. Your pledge will be recorded so that we have an accurate account of what people are giving to secure construction loans and to ensure we have the funding to build the entire project we believe the Lord is leading us to build.
When will the congregation know the total amount raised for Grace Beyond? How do I determine how much God wants me to When the elders receive the pledge cards on Palm Sunday, the pledges will be put in a locked give toward this project? As we continue to encourage the congregation to safe and not reviewed by anyone during Holy seek the Lord regarding giving to Grace Beyond, Week. Following Holy Week, the pledges will be totaled and we will have a celebration service on the elders are creating a church-wide emphasis Sunday, April 12. on a biblical view of giving beginning in January 2015. The elders are strongly encouraging Community Groups and Adult Sunday Classes to What if I want to make a donation to Grace use a six-week giving Bible Study entitled Simply Beyond, especially at the end of 2014? Share. Copies of the books will be made available We are trusting God to provide not only for Grace Beyond, but for all of our normal yearfor free to any group or individual that desires end financial needs, including our Open Door to seek the Lord’s guidance in this area. More project. As you prayerfully consider year-end details on how to get a copy will be available giving, if the Lord directs you to give prior to the shortly. collection of pledges, the deacons have already When will pledge cards be due? established a Grace Beyond project fund that Pledge cards will be due Sunday, March 29, can accept donations. which is Palm Sunday. The church will begin How do I give to the Grace Beyond project? Holy Week celebrating God’s faithfulness to Online giving is available for Grace Beyond at provide a savior and Christ’s willingness to MyCalvaryGR.org. This option will allow you to journey to the cross on our behalf. set up weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly, Who will know how much I have given? annual or one-time gifts. You may also use the A Grace Beyond pledge is a pledge that you are pew envelopes and check the box for the Grace making between you and the Lord. Only a select Beyond Project or you may also simply write few people in the Finance Office will be aware of “Grace Beyond” on the memo line of your your pledge. The elders, pastoral staff and Grace check.
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This year’s Festival of Lights will be one of Calvary’s favorites: a production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. This traditional classic will include several new songs and all new staging, bringing a fresh spirit to a familiar Christmas story. This is a great opportunity to bring a friend or neighbor and share with them how you have experienced Christ’s redemption personally. Join us for a memorable Festival of Lights this year!
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calvary church
Program GUIDE Quick Connect
administrative staff information in alpha order by ministry
Benevolence
Lynnell Bok lbok@calvarygr.org ext. 3510
Calvary Community Brenda Neher community @calvarygr.org ext. 5650
Missions
Pastoral Care & Senior Adults
Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672
Carla Boon-Julien childrensministry@ calvarygr.org ext. 5067
Serving
Community Outreach
Special Needs
Compassion Ministries
Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618
Facilities
Melissa DeBoer mdeboer@calvarygr.org ext. 5097
Library
library@calvarygr.org ext. 5290
Marketing
Jackie Rice jrice@calvarygr.org ext. 5042
Men
Elaine Lohroff men@calvarygr.org ext. 5903
Sunday Evening Worship Service 6:00pm - Chapel
Church Office Hours Monday-Friday: 8:30am-5:00pm Sunday: 7:30am-12:30pm (Receptionist Only)
Chris DeHaan missions @calvarygr.org ext. 5022
Children
Sharon Kaiser skaiser@calvarygr.org ext. 5077
Sunday Morning Worship Service 8:10, 9:40 & 11:15am
November 2014
Elaine Lohroff elohroff@calvarygr.org ext. 5903
Judi Warner jwarner @calvarygr.org ext. 5272
Students
Natalie Uecker calvarystudents @calvarygr.org ext. 5181
Technical Services
media@calvarygr.org ext. 5150
Women
Donna Ross dross@calvarygr.org ext. 5186
Worship
Carrie Carr ccarr@calvarygr.org ext. 5615
Young Adults Natalie Uecker youngadults @calvarygr.org ext. 5181
Phone: (616) 956-9377 Address: 707 E Beltline NE Grand Rapids MI 49525
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Wednesday fellowship dinner Dinner is served from 5:00-6:30pm in the Fellowship Hall. Please note that all meals are $4 per person* with a family cap of $20. WFD Dinner: Main entrée of the night with sides, roll and salad bar. Youngster’s Buffet (Ages 16 and under): Choice of one entrée and three sides or two entrées and one side. • Entrée Choices: pizza slice, hot dog, ham & turkey wrap, Kid’s Bonus entrée • Side Choices: mac n’ cheese, apple wedges, baby carrots, applesauce, chips, 2% milk Both the WFD meal and the Youngster’s Buffet include bottomless drinks from our beverage station as well as an ice cream cup. If you are having trouble paying for your meals please ask to see Chef Kevin.
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November 5 - Grilled Ham Steaks • Three Cheese Scalloped Potatoes • Super Sweet Corn • Kids Bonus Entrée: Breaded Chicken Tenderloins November 12 - Burrito Bake • Layered flour tortillas with refried beans, seasoned ground beef and a melted cheese topping…think Lasagna only Southwestern Style • Tortilla chips, Salsa, Sour Cream and Black Olives all on the side • Kids Bonus Entrée: Breaded Cheese Sticks
November 19 - Oven Roasted Turkey • Whipped Potatoes • Turkey Gravy • Green Beans with Country Bacon • Kids Bonus Entrée: Corn Dog We are here every Wednesday night serving our ever expanding original recipes for you and your family to enjoy before your Wednesday night activities here at Calvary. There also are many people who come just to take a night off from making dinner at home! All are welcome. Blessings, Kevin Troupe Director of Culinary Services & Special Events and the rest of the WFD crew
Children Carla | ext. 5067 childrensministry@calvarygr.org Family Service November 30 Nursery will be available for infants through two-year-olds; children preschool age and older are encouraged to attend the service with their family (activity boxes are available at the desk near Entrance N). A family worship room is also available in Room 251 where families with preschool or special needs children may be more comfortable. If needed, Room 254 is open for children ages three through five. KIDS-N-Action Wednesdays | 6:30-7:50pm | Entrance K Our desire in KIDS-N-ACTION is that children, five-years-old through fourth grade, understand what God says in the Bible, believe it, and obey it in their daily lives. KIDS-N-ACTION is designed to foster social interaction through chosen electives, while facilitating spiritual growth in learning from James how to “put your faith into action.” Note: There is no Kids-N-Action on Wednesday, November 26. Lil’ KIDS-N-ACTION Three and four-year-olds can join us for Lil’Kids-N-Action. They will learn portions of James chapter 1, as they hear stories of kids in the Bible who demonstrated faith-in-action! Operation Christmas Child It’s that time of year again– time to pack a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child! Calvary Kids is teaming up with Samaritan’s Purse to bless children around the world with tangible expressions of Jesus’ love. There are more details in the brochures at children’s check-in desks, or visit samaritanspurse. org. Between November 16-23, drop off filled boxes along with a check for $7 (made out to Samaritan’s Purse) to entrances K and M.
5th-8th Grade Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org Student Ministries Registration Parents! If your student attends the Main Event on Sunday Mornings or
Refuge/Oasis small groups on Wednesday nights, you need to register them at MyCalvaryGR.org. This ensures that we have accurate contact information for each family and helps us get medical release forms on file for every student. Contact Natalie in the Student Ministries Office with any questions. 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 when you first show up, but please register later at MyCalvaryGR.org. Note: There is no Main Event on Sunday, November 30. 5th-8th Kids Food Basket November 23 Together we will invest our time and energy into serving a local Kid’s Food Basket. Save the date and be sure to keep on the lookout for details about the time and place.
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 and register later at MyCalvaryGR.org. Note: There is no Refuge on Wednesday, November 26.
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 and register later at MyCalvaryGR.org. Note: There is no Oasis on Wednesday, November 26. 7th/8th Worship Night with Special Needs November 12 | 6:30-8:00pm | Room 108 We will gather in room 108 like usual and then walk together and join the Special Needs Ministry in the Chapel for a great night of combined worship! You won’t want to miss this rewarding night of worship while making new friends.
High School Natalie | ext. 5181 calvarystudents@calvarygr.org Student Ministries Registration Parents! If your student attends UNITED, you need to register them at MyCalvaryGR.org. This ensures that we have accurate contact information for each family and helps us get medical release forms on file for every student. Contact Natalie in the Student Ministries Office with any questions. 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 year we are discovering what we as Christians believe. Visit UNITED this month, it’s the perfect place for students to belong at Calvary. Note: There is no UNITED on Sunday, November 30.
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
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High School Thanksgiving Dinner November 23 | 6:00-8:30pm | Room 108 High Schoolers come enjoy a night of delicious food as we reminisce about the great things God has done in our lives. We will provide the turkey, rolls and tableware. Please bring: • Freshman – stuffing • Sophomores – mashed potatoes and gravy • Juniors – side dish • Seniors - dessert
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 Adults Book Club November 15 | 10:00am Come eat a danish and chat with us about the book we’ve been reading called Battles Christians Face. You can buy the book in your community or contact Natalie (nuecker@calvarygr.org). Young Adults Thanksgiving Love Feast November 23 | 6:30pm | Room 129 Come be encouraged and share your story as you hear how God has been at work in the lives of other young adults. We’ll share a wonderful fall feast, dessert and entertainment; then we’ll pause to listen to one another share some of the
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blessings we have experienced from This is a great way to fellowship with other students and to learn about addiGod over the last year. tional ways to get involved at Calvary. Young Adults Christmas Party Note: There is no College Lunch on Sunday, December 3 | 7:00-10:00pm | Cost: $10/Ea November 23 or 30. Downtown Market (435 Ionia SW) All young adults are invited to a Christmas Soirée in twinkling downtown College Discipleship Grand Rapids. Enjoy an evening of fes- On-Campus Discipleship Groups meet tive music and fancy hors’ dourves as weekly for an informal time of sharing we gather to celebrate in a spirit of joy and catching-up about what is happenat the Downtown Market. Invite your ing in our lives. Even if you aren’t takfriends and then get tickets at MyCalva- ing classes, we still have a group for you! For more information, contact Vida ryGR.org. Wilson (vwilson@calvarygr.org).
College
a community for young adults 18-22 College Life Thursdays | 7:00pm | Room 108 Are you interested in joining a diverse community of fellow college-aged young adults? Join us as we meet together as a community for worship, small groups, and teaching on Thursdays. This is a great opportunity to build relationships with college-aged young adults from the Grand Rapids area and to grow in our faith together. This year we are walking with the disciples as we study the Parables of Jesus. Together we are exploring how Jesus’ parables awaken and challenge us. Throughout the year we’ll also take time out for mini-series to reflect on our relationships, stewardship and God’s calling. For more information, contact Natalie (nuecker@calvarygr.org).
Merge
a community for single young adults ages 22-34 Merge Sundays | 11:15am | Room 137 Come just as you are and join us for a time of fellowship and prayer as we discuss the sermon and study God’s Word. Join us as we engage in conversations about hospitality, stewardship, and calling. We’ll also spend some time studying the book of Habakkuk, and learn about God’s vision for us in relationships, evangelism and discipleship. Throughout the year we’ll also take time to dive into deeper discussions about the Sunday morning sermons as we take a pilgrimage through the book of Hebrews. For more information, contact Sue Schroeder(sschroeder@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5198.
College Lunch Foundations Sundays | 12:30pm | Room 121 Are you looking for a way to connect a community for engaged and newly married with other college students who attend young adults ages 22-34 Calvary on Sundays? Come enjoy a free Foundations lunch every week after the third service. Sundays | 11:15am | Room 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. This year, we will work on growing in our ability to communicate with our spouse, and how to set a road map for a future that glorifies God through our family unit. We’ll also spend time learning about stewardship and the often unseen expenses, as well as develop an understanding of how to function as a godly community of believers.
Compassion ministries Lou | ext. 3618 ldegraaf@calvarygr.org Freed Up Class November 5-December 17 | 6:30-8:00pm Cost: $20 | Register at MyCalvaryGR.org Are you currently living on a tighter budget? Are you struggling to make ends meet each month? Do you wonder where your money went at the end of every month? If you said “yes” to any of these questions, this six-week class is for you. Freed Up will provide you with principles, practical steps and individual assistance to put together a monthly spending plan that enables you to control your money rather than having your money control you. Surviving the Holidays November 15 | 10:00am-12:00pm | Room 140 Register at MyCalvaryGR.org If you are separated or divorced, the holidays can be a very stressful time. Featuring video instruction and group discussion, this encouraging seminar will help you deal with the pain of separation and divorce and discover new ways to enjoy the holidays again. During a Surviving the Holidays event you will watch a 40-minute video filled with practical tips on how to survive the holidays, hear from others in your group who are dealing with a marital breakup this holiday season, have the opportunity to share how the separation or divorce is affecting you (if you’d like), and receive a personal Holiday Survival Guide. Lunch will be served after the event; all are welcome to stay. DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K): Your children can join us for a time of encouragement and discover how to enjoy the holidays again. We will provide activities for school age children and childcare for preschoolers.
Marriage enrichment Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org Foundations a community for young engaged and newly married couples, ages 22-34 See the details under “Foundations” to the left on page 14.
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Saturday, November 8 8:00-10:00am Calvary Church Fellowship Hall Cost: $5.00
Marriage Counseling Confidential professional marriage counseling is available by contacting Regina Scovill (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672. Momentum Join this class designed for married couples in their 20s and 30s, Sundays at 11:15 in Room 207. We strive to mature in Christ together through the challenges of life, while caring and praying for each other. Threshold Join in community with other young married couples and new families (in their 20s and 30s) as we study God’s Word, pray, serve and grow in Christ together. Contact Brenda (bneher@calvarygr.org) for details.
pastoral care Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org Eating and Body Image Support Group Adult Women: Nov. 10 | 7pm | Room 153-155 Teens: Nov. 11 | 7:30pm | Room 151-153 Join this guided discussion group offering a spiritual perspective on eating and body image issues as well as prayer and support. Contact Jen Lane (mieatingdisordersalliance@gmail.com) Hannah’s Heart Hannah’s Heart is a ministry providing Christ-centered support, encouragement and comfort to families experiencing miscarriage or the loss of an infant. For more information, contact Deb Donker at 363-7818. Please know that any information shared with Hannah’s Heart is kept in strict confidence.
Our November speaker will be Doug Taatjes. Doug is a Partner and Associate Broker at NAI Wisinski of West Michigan. Doug will be speaking on Gratitude in Loss. RSVP by 12:00pm on Wednesday, November 7 at MyCalvaryGR.org. Contact Elaine at ext. 5903 or men@ calvarygr.org with questions.
Hands of Jesus Ministry If you need help with small projects around your home — electrical repair, painting, plumbing, yard work, cleaning, meal prep/delivery, furniture moving, transportation, respite care, handyman projects and carpentry — consider contacting the Hands of Jesus Ministry for assistance. 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. Long-Term Illness Support Group Are you or a loved one dealing with cancer or long term illness? Join an ongoing support group the 3rd and 4th Tuesdays of each month, 7-8:30pm at the Yellow House. The goal is to provide a time of sharing and support as well as prayer and biblical encouragement. Contact Jerry Ward (jerryward68@att.net) at 452-1349. Mental Illness Family Support Group November 25 | 7:00pm | Room 114 If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, we want to come alongside and support you. Join us at our next meeting. Contact John or Betty Walker with questions at 956-6141. Stephen Ministers Available Would you like to connect one on one with someone in an entirely confidential manner that can provide you with a listening ear to care and guide you through your struggles and spiritual crises? Stephen Ministers are trained lay members of the Calvary congregation who will listen, encourage, provide emotional and spiritual support and help you bring Christ’s presence into focus in your life. To learn more, call Regina at ext. 3672.
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Prayer groups
Intercessors Prayer Group Wednesdays | 6:45pm | Room 212 Open to anyone who is interested in praying for Calvary Church, its pastors, staff, volunteers, congregation and programming. For details, or to submit requests, contact prayer@calvarygr.org. Nehemiah Prayer Team 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, 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 Third 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.
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UNITED Parent Connection (UPC) November 23 | 6:00pm | Room 129 UPC meets for prayer, support and connection. This month we will meet together and help serve the High School Thanksgiving Meal.
Study with Pastor Bruce Huseby. This year expect: more special music, more discussion, as well as our regular times of fellowship. Enjoy coffee and cookies at 9:30am with bible study beginning at 9:55am ending promptly at 11:00am.
Seniors (Adults age 55+) Regina | ext. 3672 rscovill@calvarygr.org
Special needs Adults Elleen | ext. 5623 efitzgerald@calvarygr.org
55+ Leisure Luncheon November 3 | 10:30am | Fellowship Hall Join us for a time of fun, fellowship, a wonderful luncheon, and informative programming designed to inform, educate, and entertain. This month our speaker will be Mr. Bill Burd, “The Science Guy.” Punchbowl is 10:00-10:20am. Reservations must be made one week in advance by contacting: Howard & Arlene Timmer (hrtakt@iserv.net) at 3650728, Terry & Linda Markham at 8273982. Calvary Senior Potluck Begin to prepare now for the next big OASIS potluck dinner to be held on November 2 from 12:15-2:00pm in Calvary’s Fellowship Hall. Join us for a time of fun, fellowship, and great food. Our special guest for the day will be Jim Van Wingerden from Melody Lane Sing Along. Tableware, meats and drinks will be provided free of charge to all those who attend. RSVP to Regina (rscovill@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 3672 by October 29. Confident Caregivers November 17 | 12:00pm | Fellowship Hall Confident Caregivers Adult Ministry provides a time of rejuvenation and relief to those filling the roll of full or part-time caregivers to family members or friends. Please join us for a wonderful lunch and a time of fellowship and support, spending time with others experiencing similar circumstances. This month’s conversation topic is “Finding time for Ourselves,” amid the hectic schedules of those we care for. Please plan to join us. RSVP one week prior by contacting Regina (rscovill@calvarygr. org) at ext. 3672. Wednesday Morning Bible Study 9:30-11:00am | Chapel Retired, currently unemployed, homemaker, or just enjoying Wednesdays off? Make plans to attend our weekly Bible
SOS Go-Getters Sundays | 11:15am | Chapel WOW Go-Getters 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 Art Class (Room 112): Being creative with a variety of mediums is the focus of the art class. Choir (Chapel): This group spends time learning new songs and singing old favorites. Several times a year, they lead or assist with worship. Scripture Intake (Room 207): Listening to God’s Word along with a brief discussion is the focus of this group. Sign Language (Room 211): In this class, individuals are instructed in basic sign language and encouraged to use sign language to participate in worship.
Children and Youth Elizabeth | ext. 5637 ethelen@calvarygr.org Explorers Sundays | 11:15am | Room 114 A classroom for those who learn best through interactive activity centers. Seekers (Students with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 112 A classroom for those who learn best in a more structured environment. ASL Interpretation Available Please note that ASL Interpretation is available on Sunday mornings in the 9:40am service.
Women Donna | ext. 5186 women@calvarygr.org MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Thursdays (1st, 3rd & 5th) 9:00-11:15am | Room 129 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 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 the Sanctuary Information Center or at the Women’s Ministry bulletin board in the lower level office area Exercise Class Mondays | 9:30-11:00am | Grym Enjoy a variety of aerobics including: Tae Bo®, Zumba®, Pilates, stretching, self defense and games. Injury waiver needed (download at calvarygr.org/women). Contact: Angela Crompton, Certified Fitness Instructor at 406-8106 or Barb Mirandette, P.T. at 365-9967. Limited childcare available - contact Women’s Ministry at 956-9377, ext. 5186. Volleyball Mondays | 6-8pm | Grym Contact: Pat Engels (engelspa@aol.com) at 457-3813. No fee. No childcare. Injury waiver needed (download at calvarygr.org/women). 2014-2015 CATALOG
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Calvary Church 707 E Beltline NE | Grand Rapids 956-9377 | calvarygr.org
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 opportunities Adopt a family for Christmas Each year, we have families who are struggling financially. If you or your small group would like to be a blessing to one of these families by purchasing gifts, please contact Lynnell (lbok@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3510.
s a m t s i r h C Baskets
be a Christmas blessing by providing a food basket for a Calvary family. our goal is to provide 80 baskets with special holiday treats (list at calvarygr.org) for families using the Calvary Food Pantry. Drop off at the Yellow House monday, December 1 through Friday, December 12, 8:30am – 5:00pm. baskets will be delivered on Wednesday, December 17. Thank you for bringing Christmas cheer to those in our Calvary Community who need encouragement. Merry Christmas!
ing is a ministry that meets one-on-one with people who struggle with money management. There will be a training on Saturday, November 15 from 8:00am to noon. For questions or to register, contact Lou (ldegraaf@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3618. Help Feed College Students We truly believe time around the table is a great opportunity for building relationships and sharing Christ. Will you help us encourage local college students to stick around Calvary and experience Christ through this body of believers? Contact Natalie (nuecker@calvarygr.org) for further details. Serving Opportunities in Calvary Kids It’s not too late to join this exciting team in changing children’s lives for eternity! There are opportunities to serve Sunday mornings at 11:15am and Wednesday evening in Kids-N-Action classrooms. Contact us today (childrensministry@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5053. Shut-in Ministry Volunteers Needed 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 more information, contact Regina (rscovill@calvarygr. org) at ext. 3672.
Giving opportunities Lynnell | ext. 3510 lbok@calvarygr.org Clothes Closet With another cold winter approaching, we are now accepting the following items to help keep our Calvary families warm this season: snow boots for men, women and children, coats, snow pants, snowsuits, hats, gloves, scarves, warm clothing. Food Pantry To make Thanksgiving special for our families we can use the following items: • Stuffing • Assorted • Gravy baking • Potatoes – ingredients fresh; regular • Dinner rolls or sweet and biscuits • Canned • Canned pie or fresh filling vegetables • Canned • Cranberries pumpkin - fresh and • Whipped canned topping • Pie crust This year’s holiday season we are seeing more families who are on special diets. We would greatly appreciate donations of lowsodium and gluten-free products. Thank you. Note: The Food Pantry is closed the week of Thanksgiving. Any holiday donations must be delivered no later than Tuesday, November 18.
Budget Counselor Training Are you passionate about finances and people? We need you! Budget counsel-
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On The shelf
More Journeys of Faith Leading to God Evidence Not Seen: A Woman’s Miraculous Faith in the Jungles of World War II - This is the incredible
true story of a young American missionary woman interned during World War II in a notorious Japanese prison camp. God’s faithfulness to her through her journey has inspired and challenged many believers throughout the years.
What to Do in the Event of a
DISTURBANCE
If there is a person observed who is causing a disturbance, harm or property damage, please report it to the Emergency Response Team (ERT) immediately via the Help Phone (located along the wall in the main hallways). The ERT will observe and take necessary steps to de-escalate the situation and protect those in the area. If deemed necessary, the ERT will call the police. If a situation is volatile it is always better to have the police arrive even if the situation is under control by the time they arrive.
Ruth Bell Graham says, “My life was changed when I heard Darlene Rose’s story. It challenged my faith as nothing else had.” Dr. Charles Stanley calls Evidence Not Seen, “[A] testimony of deep faith and a confirmation on the faithfulness of God.”
Game Changer - Sit down with Kirk Cousins, recordsetting Michigan State University quarterback and 2012 draft pick of the NFL’s Washington Redskins. In Game Changer, Cousins gives readers an inside look at his life—as experienced under the bright lights of college and professional football—and how he puts his faith and values into action, both on and off the field. Cousins reflects on how honesty, humility, hard work, and responsibility have played important roles in his faith journey. Undaunted: One Man’s Real-Life Journey from Unspeakable Memories to Unbelieveable Grace
Undaunted chronicles the riveting true story of a young farm boy named Josh who carried unspeakable memories of an alcoholic father and a farmhand’s abuse, causing him to defy God’s existence. Yet God redeemed a horrible situation with his unbelievable grace. Today Josh McDowell is one of the most popular evangelists in the world who defends the reality of Jesus Christ to millions. This biography unfolds the dramatic spiritual transformation in Josh’s life when he faces his past head-on and puts everything entirely in God’s hands. The Undaunted DVD is also available in our church library.
The Reason: How I Discovered a Life Worth Living - With raw vulnerability, Lacey tells her own story of
physical abuse, drug use, suicide attempts and her ultimate salvation. She asks the hard questions so many young people are asking--Why am I here? Why am I empty? Why should I go on living?--showing readers that beyond the temporary highs and the soul-crushing lows there is a reason they exist and a purpose for their lives. She not only gives readers a peek down the rocky path that led her to become a vocalist in a popular band, but she shows them that the same God is guiding their steps today.
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The Library is located across from Fellowship Hall on the lower level. Our hours are Sundays, 9:15-11:15am and Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30pm. Note that we will be closed on November 26.
sun
mon
2 12:30pm Senior Potluck
november 2014
tue
3
wed
thu
4
10:30am 55+ Leisure Luncheon
5 WFD Menu: Grilled Ham Steaks
12:30pm College Lunch
5:15pm Explore Calvary
6:00pm Short-Term Missions Night
6:30pm Good Sense Class Begins
9 12:30pm College Lunch
10 7:00pm Eating and Body Image Support Group (Women)
6:00pm Evening Service
11 7:30pm Eating and Body Image Support Teen Group
High School: UNITED UNITED Parent Connection (UPC)
16 12:30pm College Lunch
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Operation Christmas Child Boxes Due This Week
6:00pm Evening Service
23
5th-8th Kids Food Basket Event 6:00pm Evening Service
High School: UNITED Thanksgiving Dinner 6:30pm Young Adult Thanksgiving Love Feast
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6:40pm Teen MOPS
WFD Menu: Burrito Bake
sat
6 9:00am MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
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8
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7:00pm Merge Guys’/Gals’ Night
13 10:00am Women’s Prayer Shawl Ministry
5:15pm Explore Calvary 6:30pm 7th/8th Worship Night with Go Getters
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10:00am Surviving the Holidays
7:00pm College Life
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6:40pm Teen MOPS
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7:00pm College Life
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WFD Menu: Oven Roasted Turkey
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fri
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9:00am MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 7:00pm College Life
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7:00pm No Wednesday Night Church Office Closed Church Office Closed Mental Illness Family Programming Support Group 5:30pm Thanksgiving Eve Potluck 7:00pm Thanksgiving Eve Service
30
Family Service Advent Begins 6:00pm Evening Service
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In our teaching series at Calvary this year, Every Step Counts: A Journey of Faith, we are considering our lives as a spiritual journey. Together we are looking at the book of Hebrews, and seeing how life is a journey that God calls each one of us to make toward Himself. The good news is that Jesus paved the way for us and that God provides everything we need along the way. However, this does not make the journey easy. In fact, it’s impossible without faith. Faith is what enables us to start our journey, and it is what keeps us going, one step at a time. What is your next step of faith? Join us as we encourage one another with God’s constant presence and take faithful steps together toward rest in Him. 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 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).