calvary life October 2011
Meet Me at the Marketplace...Pg. 13 Be a HERO...Pg. 16
Don’t miss the Community Launch - October 2 To participate, you must register by September 26
contents
9 // Community Launch
step by step guide on how to sign up for this fall’s community launch
13 // Meet me at the marketplace
women- don’t miss this chance to shop and fellowship with your girlfriends
12 // Grace Discovered a true story of how one calvary family discovered the grace of giving
4 | 5 Questions with Lee Content
8 | Special Needs Ministry
14-18 | Program Guide
The Calvary Life sits down with the Pastoral Staff Understanding Faith in Jesus - a mentor program 14 - Children, 5th-8th Grade for Calvary Community. for individuals with special needs. 15 - 5th-8th Grade Cont’d, High School, College, Merge 16 - Merge cont’d, Foundations, Calvary 4 | Tech Tips 9 | How Things Work Community Compassion Ministiries, Family Life, Do you hear what I hear? The answer is a Signing up for the Community Launch Men, Pastoral Care, Special Needs resounding NO. explained! 17 - Pastoral Care cont’d , Special Needs 18 - Senior Adults, Women, Serving 5 | On the Bookshelf 10 | One Heart Opportunities, Giving Opportunities Reading recommendations from the Calvary Notes from the Calvary Missions & Outreach family for October. Team
19 | October Calendar
6 | The Blessing of Community Groups How Don & Cindy Marrell have experienced community throughout their years at Calvary.
7 | Behind the Scenes
Serving at Calvary connects you to the life of the body; hear how as we sit down with Chris Lohroff.
12 | A Note From the Elders
Elder Ron Haas shares how one calvary family discovered the grace of giving.
Dates to know and hold onto for October.
20 | Welcome to Calvary
New to Calvary? This is a great place to start.
If you plan on attending one of the many events that occur at Calvary on Wednesday night, or would enjoy a good home cooked meal that you did not have to prepare, or would just like to dine with family and friends, come to the Wednesday Fellowship Dinner. Our goal is to present to you weekly, excellent “Center of the Plate” entrees featuring original recipes from Chef Rod, Chef Neal, and Chef PJ that include complimentary sides, crisp green tossed salad, dessert, and assorted beverages. The cost is low, $5 for the featured meal, or $15.00 for Family Meal which would be two adult and three Hero Meals. If children included in the Family Meal are served the featured meal or the Super Hero Meal the cost is an additional $2 each.
October 5 Sunday Dinner on Wednesday
Grilled Hand Cut Cure 81 Ham Steaks with Traverse Bay Cherry Sauce Four Pastas Casserole with Sweet Peppers and Sauce Mornay Super Sweet White Corn Nibblets Healthy Hero Meal: Whole Grain Pasta with Meatballs
Wednsheipsddinnaery Fellow
October 12 Chef’s Best from the Southwest
White Chicken Chili With sautéed tenderloin of chicken and great northern beans Coyote Stew Made with shredded tri-tip beef, beef veloute, tomatoes, mild chili sauce and green chilies New Mexico Blend Vegetables Broad green beans, corn, cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots Healthy Hero Meal: Grilled Chicken with BBQ Sauce and Steamed Rice
We serve from 5:00-6:30pm in the Fellowship Hall.
October 19 For the Kids
Chef Rod, Chef Neal & Chef PJ Tag Team
New this year is the Healthy Hero Meal. This meal is designed to be healthy, nutritious, and tasty. The Healthy Hero will be offered to children under ten only. All Healthy Hero options will include salad bar, roll, low-fat milk, vegetable of the day, or carrot sticks and apple sauce. Bareman ice cream cups will be available for dessert. Parents, if you’re looking for a balanced dinner for your children, this will be the option to choose.
Lasagna T’Night Calvary’s Chefs team up to layer delicious pasta, four types of Italian cheeses, Salsa Putinesca, and herbs, and bake this wonderful casserole to bubbly perfection. Steamed Italian Vegetables Italian Anti-pasta Salad Homemade Garlic Bread Healthy Hero Meal: Ground Beef Steaks and Mashed Potatoes
For the children we will offer the Healthy Hero Meal for $3 or the traditional Hero Meal which is a hot slice of Chef PJ’s homemade pizza squares, or a hot dog and mac-n-cheese for $3. For the “Super Hero” in all of us you can have two squares or two dogs for $5.
Down Home Comfort
October 26 Fresh, Thick-sliced, Oven Roast Pork Loin with Fresh Rosemary Homemade Pan Sauce Hericot Verts Green beans with smoked bacon Mashed Potatoes Creamy and hot with smokey gouda cheese Healthy Hero Meal: Grilled Ham Steak and Sweet Potatoes
good to know Experiencing a Crisis? For those of you who are experiencing a crisis, or perhaps are going through a difficult emotional, spiritual, or relationship situation, Stephen Ministry & Lay Counseling can help. Contact Phyllis Dykstra at 784-1858. Membership Class Saturday, November 12 from 9:00am-2:30pm We believe membership in the local church is important. Membership means commitment to learn, to be in commu-
nity and to contribute – giving back to God what He so richly gives to us. Register online or contact Brenda (membership@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5650 by November 7. Pre-registration is required. Lunch is provided. Sorry, no childcare. Young Adults Scholarship Fund
Every year the young adult ministry provides opportunities including retreats, conferences, book clubs, and times of service to cultivate and encourage spiritual growth. Sadly, financial hardships can make it difficult for some of our young adults to take full advantage of these
opportunities. Would you consider donating to the college and young adult scholarship fund and invest in the next generation of leaders at Calvary Church? To donate, designate Young Adults Scholarship Fund on your check or giving envelope and place it in the offering plate on Sundays.
connections getting to know calvary
Tech Tips
do you hear what i hear?
Questi o ns 5 with Lee Content Pastoral Staff, Calvary Community
1. What is your role at Calvary Church? Essentially, my job is to get people into smaller communities in which they can experience life{together} in Christ by meeting together; growing in Christ together, praying together and caring for one another. It also involves partnering with all other areas of ministry to make sure that building community is a priority. 2. What encourages you most as you minister in Calvary Community? The thing that encourages me the most as I minister are the relationships that I have been able to build with so many different people. This allows me to see God working in people’s lives and to experience the true meaning of being brothers and sisters in Christ. 3. How have you experienced life{together}? Most recently I have experienced life{together} by being in a community group this summer with eight other staff members here at Calvary. Throughout the summer we met for lunch, going through the book, Radical Together, and taking turns sharing our life stories. It was fabulous getting to know people that I work with on a deeper level. 4. How has God used your community to showcase His love recently? One of the ways God used community to showcase His love was through answered prayer in our group. Over the course of time, many prayer requests were shared, and it was amazing to see God’s faithfulness. It reminded me once again, how kind and loving God is! 5. How can the Calvary family pray for you and your ministry this month? This month is a big month for getting people into smaller communities. Please pray that many people would be prompted to get into a group; pray for the Community Launch that we are having on October 2; pray for the established ministries of Adult Sunday Classes and Monday Night Bible Study, specifically pray for the many leaders that lead these groups! Pray that God will bless them and encourage them in their leadership roles this year. 4 | October 2011 | calvarygr.org
When it is important to hear clearly, how do we communicate the spoken word to those with hearing impairments? We want everyone to have the opportunity to hear the spoken word at Calvary Church and would be happy to assist you in using either of the following. THE HEARING LOOP – We have two ways to access hearing help for those having hearing aids with the T-Coil feature. Through the Sanctuary Information Center you can receive a portable FM transmitter that will automatically connect with your hearing aid T-Coil and allow you to sit anywhere in the Sanctuary. Also, there is an installed loop system that is always on in a section of our Sanctuary located to the right of center aisle when facing the platform. In both applications, T-Coil equipped hearing aids can be switched on to greatly enhance the users hearing ability. LIVE CAPTIONING – For those that do not have T-Coil technology and need hearing assistance, we offer live captioning through portable notebook computers during our second hour (9:40am) service. These are obtained in the back of the Sanctuary and are pre-programmed to display the spoken words of the service through wireless technology. This allows the worshipper to follow along by reading the spoken words from the platform on the portable screen. The notebooks are ready to go and begin displaying the words as soon as the service begins. If you have your own tablet or handheld device, we can also provide you with the internet access to use live captioning during the service.
on the bookshelf
recommended reading for september Have you been thinking about starting a community group or Bible Study in your home? The library has great resources available for you! Crazy Love by Francis Chan is life changing. Because the answer to religious complacency isn’t working harder at a list of dos and don’ts – it’s falling in love with God. The DVD contains ten teaching segments which correspond to each chapter of the book and are designed to initiate discussion, interaction and practical application of the Crazy Love message with small groups. Join Beth Moore on a journey into the life and heart of Paul the apostle. This 10 session DVD study, To Live is Christ also includes a Leader’s Guide and Study Guide. More than any other person, Paul provides for us an example of sold-out servanthood. (Other Beth Moore studies are also available) Indescribable takes us on an image-rich journey through the cosmos, allowing us to peer into God’s universe to discover the amazing magnitude of his greatness and grace and is one of the DVDs in the Passion Talk Series by Louie Giglio. It touches your heart to realize that the God who knows every star by name also knows yours and mine. A discussion guide is included in each of the four DVDs in this series.
Carol Spencer, Monday Night Bible Study Coordinator
Karen VanHolstyn, Assistant Director, Calvary Community
Lee Bergakker, Fifth/Sixth Facilitator
The Goodness of God is a great book on understanding suffering. Alcorn shows how the way of suffering can ultimately become a journey into wholeness and even logic-defying joy. It is an easy ready with profound insights. I really enjoy listening to books, whether in the car or relaxing at home. This is the best devotional by far that I have ever owned. Each day of Jesus Calling is written as if Jesus Himself were speaking to you. It is amazing how every time I read it, it is exactly what I needed for that day. Blue Like Jazz has a remarkable way of catching you off guard and making you feel several different emotions in a span of ten pages. Donald Miller is engaging, humorous and brutally honest. If you’ve ever had doubts or questions, Donald Miller will make you feel like you’re not alone. The book is both comforting and challenging. Whether you like the book or not, you will find Blue Like Jazz unique and thought provoking.
All the books mentioned above are available in Calvary's Library. The Library is located across from Fellowship Hall on the lower level. The hours are Sunday, 9:15 - 11:15am; 5:15 - 5:45pm; Wednesday, 9:15 - 9:45am; 6:00 - 7:30pm. Our library collection is searchable online! This helpful search tool will enable you to view all of the library’s resources from the convenience of your home. You can find us at: calvarygr.org/ministries/library. October 2011 | calvarygr.org | 5
life{together} experiencing community at calvary
the blessing of Community groups by cindy marrell
met Ally out in their neighborhood. They discovered they both attended Calvary, so Kris brought her along. Linda invited Lasanna while they were working together in the Calvary Café. Marlo met Robin downtown and invited her to church. Robin’s first Sunday, both Linda and Lasasna walked up and invited her to our group. Now there are eleven of us, and we plan to continue {together}. Of course we eat {together}. We also review the sermon questions provided by Calvary staff for the previous Sundays. And we spend time {together} praying for each other. It is so sweet. God has been glorified by answering those prayers with jobs, supplying the right medication, solving problems at work, caring for our grown children. Our group is continually thankful for the various spiritual gifts God has given to our group members. Looking back at all these groups, the theme is prayer. There is a fellowship, an intimacy that develops as in no other way when you intercede for brothers and sisters in the Lord.
Don and I have been blessed by participating in Greenhouse, an adult Sunday class for several years. One strong component is the ability to examine God’s word through lively discussions. We “leave the walls down” so Are you looking for community? we can pray for each other. To help make this kind of community accessible to everyone, we are launching lots of In September 2008, the Holy Spirit introduced us to a couple in new Community Groups at Calvary. There is a group for everyone! Neighborhood the parking lot that we would later meet at a mutual friend’s for groups meet in homes throughout the area. Family groups are intended to help New Year’s Eve. God clearly used that social gathering to build a entire families experience community together. Global groups are new and will have small group. We met regularly and God used Jim Cymbala’s DVD a focus on living a missional life. Monday Night Bible Study groups meet study on prayer to enrich our relationships with each other. here at the church. We also continue to have a myriad of groups for Women, Men, Young Adults and Seniors, along with a number of Support Groups. That study prompted us to join the Wednesday night Intercessor’s prayer group last fall. What a treat it is to go together into Community Group Launch Launch Date! God’s throne room to pray for people throughout the We’ll be launching new neighborhood, family and When: Sunday, October 2 congregation, Calvary’s elders, deacons, staff and misglobal groups on Sunday afternoon, Time: 4:00-6:00pm sionaries, and each other. Come and be blessed while October 2, 4:00 to 6:00pm. Where: Fellowship Hall you’re praying for others. There is always room for more! RSVP: Register by Sept. 26 Each new group will be unique, reflecting the • Online at calvarygr.org Last spring Don and I signed up to be part of a small group for personality of its members. • OR, pick up a registra• All will commit to meet at least eight times. eight meetings. That first launch meeting was a little awkward. tion form at the tents on Most groups meet every other week. I told myself that it was only for eight meetings. Our group Sunday. • Many will use sermon-based discussions. started out with seven members, and God started knitting us • OR, contact Brenda Neher • All will involve regular gatherings that include together as family. He orchestrated connections with group (bneher@calvarygr.org) at food, conversation, prayer and Bible study. members and other Calvary congregants. Linda was helping Don 956-9377, ext. 5650. and Terry; they brought her along. Kris was walking her dog and
6 | October 2011 | calvarygr.org
Behind the Scenes Serving at Calvary with Chris Lohroff
Where do you currently serve at Calvary?
I currently serve on the Men’s Ministry advisory team, as a leader for a couple of Men’s Bible studies, and on the leadership team for the Legacy Builders adult congregation. I am also currently on the planning committee for the Men’s Conference.
How did you begin serving at Calvary?
When I first started attending Calvary, I was involved in several areas but then took some time off when we startChris & His wife Elaine ed our family. When I decided it was time to get back in the game, I waited a bit to see if I would be asked to do anything. Nothing was presented to me so I started with dropping off the mail at the post office once a week. After doing that for just a short time several other opportunities began to come my way.
What challenges have you encountered in your ministry?
I’ve found it difficult to say “NO” when asked to participate to the point where I tend to overload my schedule. When counseling other men, I also find it difficult to disengage and move on from a particularly difficult situation.
How has God blessed you through serving?
It has been amazing to watch men grow in their faith. I’m often overwhelmed that God would choose to use me to do His work, but I am so thankful that He allows me to participate.
How do you experience community at Calvary?
I’m currently involved in the Legacy Builders adult Sunday class and several men’s Bible Studies. I have found it to be incredibly important to spend time with others believers that are going through or have already gone through some of the challenges I face as a husband, father, employee, and follower of Jesus.
Serving Opportunities Abound
Discovery
A New Crash Course Discovery can help you learn more about your spiritual walk, your spiritual gifts and connecting with others at Calvary as you meet with trained staff members. A recent participant said, “The meeting [with the staff member] helped me so much. I not only learned about my spiritual gifts and how to use them, but also to understand so much about what God wants from me. I had a wonderful experience.” Pick up a Discovery card at the Information Center, go online to our Serving Ministry page, or contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext 5077. Something new in Discovery is coming in October. On Wednesday, Oct. 12, from 5:15-8:00pm, you can do a “crash course” in Discovery. As our guest, you will pick up your supper and a hostess will take you to a quiet spot where you can take your inventories as you eat. Afterwards, you will meet one-on-one with a staff facilitator to review the results and find out what your gifts are. Sign up now. We can only take three people per Wednesday evening Discovery event. Contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr. org) at ext 5077.
Find out how you can get connected to use your abilities and passions, by contacting Judie Fielstra (jfielstra@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5095.
Explore Calvary
Are you new to Calvary Church? Are you finding it hard to navigate or get plugged in? Journey together with us for four weeks beginning Wednesday, October19 in room 130 from 5:15-6:30pm in an informal setting to tour the building, meet others new to Calvary, share a meal together, meet staff, and learn more about Calvary. Reservations are needed by Wednesday, October 12 to Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5077.
October 2011 | calvarygr.org | 7
Special Needs Ministry Understanding Faith in Jesus Mentor Program By Judi Warner Understanding Faith in Jesus Calvary Church 707 East Beltline NE Grand Rapids, MI 616-956-9377
Kara and shonda
About six months ago, the staff of the Special Needs Ministry began thinking about how we could help individuals with special needs understand more clearly and on a personal level what it means to be a Christian, and how to become a member of Calvary Church. Lessons pertaining to these topics had been taught in the large group setting. From this, many students, 26 of them, who had attended the Go Getters Community group for several years, expressed great interest in being baptized and joining this community which they love. When the staff recognized their strong desire to learn more, it was decided that we should write a booklet which would guide them through this process. It is called “Understanding Faith in Jesus.” Following the same three pillars on which our Christian Faith stands (taken from Calvary’s Membership workbook), we began writing this adapted book in such a way that through scripture, students would understand more about God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. The workbook also includes lessons on what it means to have a relationship with Jesus, and how we celebrate that relationship through the Lord’s Supper and baptism. The last section of the book teaches the importance of church membership and how we can all use the gifts God has given us to serve Him and one another. Visual cards were added along with communication cards for the non-verbal student, or those with speech difficulties, and those who are primarily visual learners. Upon completion of the workbook, the staff prayed that God would be honored through this mentorship program. We are grateful that five students have completed the workbook and are now excited about being baptized and joining Calvary Church. Over the summer, I had the privilege of mentoring two young women from the Go Getters class, Kara and Shonda Jones. What a wonderful experience it was to get to know them and study God’s Word together! I have come to love and appreciate who God made them to be, the gifts that are displayed in their lives, the challenges they live with each day and how much they sincerely love their Heavenly Father. Shonda and Kara are both very thankful for Calvary Church where they can be with friends, pray and worship God and look forward to being welcomed as members of the Body of Christ. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
* 8 | October 2011 | calvarygr.org
If after reading this article, you feel God tugging at your heart strings to mentor one of these special students, please give us a call. Contact: Elleen Fitzgerald efitzgerald@calvarygr.org // ext. 5623
how things work
Signing up for the Community launch Are you looking for community? Join us on Sunday, October 2, when we will launch several new community groups at Calvary. Register by September 26, in one of four ways.
Have questions? Start here!
1
Visit a Community Tent 1 - Look at the map below and find the tent closest to your current location. Tents are located at the Main Sanctuary Entrance, the Nursery Entrance and the Chapel Entrance.
Sign up at the Connection Point
2
or
1 - Head toward the back of the Sanctuary and make a right. The Connection Point is through the double doors, and the second door on your right. 2 - Once you’ve arrived, find a Connection Point volunteer who will assist you in filling out a blue launch sign-up form. They’ll be able to answer any questions you may have.
2 - Once you’ve arrived at the tent, ask for a blue launch sign-up form. 3- Fill it out at the table and turn it in to the friendly volunteer.
Just want to sign up? Start here!
3
Open your Bulletin Locate the blue Community Launch registration form in your bulletin. Fill it out and turn it in to a volunteer on your way out of the service.
Upper Level
242 240
Community Launch registration is located on the bottom left on the home page.
Tent - A
Tent - N Nursery Check-in
4
or
Sign up at calvarygr.org
Tent - C
Connection Point Main Entrance
West Elevator
Information Center
ren’s Childity Boxes Activ
Prayer Room
Information
212
Media
Sanctuary
215A
243 241 Children’s Office
222
urce
234
Room
232
Media Office
231
229
227
225
223
215B
207
211A
Chapel Reso
Calvary Café
213
East Elevator
211B
221 106
105
October 2011 | calvarygr.org | 9
one heart
Calvary Missions & outreach 2011-2012
Open Door Vision 2011-2012 Is Coming! God is moving in the Arab world, and we are excited to be a part of it.
This year, ODV will focus on God’s miraculous work from Spain to Palestine, and the entire Arab world. Ministries like the Evangelical Training Center in Europe, and Middle East Media (which produces Christian pre-evangelistic programming and media), SAT-7 (a Christian satellite station), and Bethlehem Bible College in the Middle East, are in a unique position in this moment in time, with the window of opportunity open to make a real impact in that region of the world. Keep watching for ways you can help make a difference through our Open Door Vision project.
Sunday, October 30
SAT-7 HQ
6:00pm | Sanctuary Bethlehem Bible College
Middle East Media HQ
Footprint of Coverage by Middle East Media & SAT-7
Project report
UFM Event
Lincoln School Supplies Project was a great blessing!
Celebrating God’s Work through Urban Family Ministries: An event to benefit UFM
Praise God for the response we had from all of you who contributed school supplies and other needed items for the three schools on the Lincoln campus. Many, many students will benefit from your overwhelming generosity. The teachers and staff were amazed at the outpouring of support for them, and on behalf of those children and young adults that will benefit from your kindness, thank you.
Join us for an evening of celebrating what God is doing in the neighborhoods of Grand Rapids. Your ticket includes dessert, a ministry update, and the hilarious, interactive comedy of the 32 One Improv Group. Come and fellowship with the staff, volunteers and supporters of Urban Family Ministries on Friday, November 4 at 7:00pm at Eastern Avenue CRC, 514 Eastern Ave. Tickets are $10 each, or 2 for $15. Call 616-365-9009 to reserve your tickets.
Join us on October 30 to “hear our heart” for the world. Jim Samra will share our vision for missions, plus there will be time to focus on our short-term missions and missionaries. With our last 2011 short-term team in Mozambique this month, it is time to thank those of you who were part of one or more of this year’s trips – either through prayer support, financial giving, or by going. Close to 150 middle school and high school students and adults of all ages impacted Grand Rapids, the United States, and the world. As we look forward to 2012, we are already praying for those who will be involved in praying, supporting, or going. Following the October 30 service, come to a reception in Fellowship Hall to share about the trips planned for 2012. Please plan to join us!
Neighbors International
Touch the world at our doorstep Do you have a passion for people from different cultures? Are you available during the day? Perhaps you are newly retired and have more time on your hands? Are you looking for a way to involve your children in ministry? Neighbors International is looking for you!
One Heart for the City: Take Hold Church Christmas This year, in addition to Missionary Christmas Giving and Operation Christmas Child, we will focus on our urban church plant, Take Hold Church on Division Avenue. Shane & Heather Cox have been serving the Heartside District here in Grand Rapids for two years, and have reached and loved a group of people who normally would not go to “church.” God has blessed them in many ways, and this young church is thriving. Shane and Heather are not seeking to bring people out of their subculture, but to “see the subculture and scene redeemed” through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. One of the ways that Take Hold has been a light in the community is through meeting the needs of those in the neighborhood. To show our love and support for Shane and his ministry, we would like to help supply their benevolent ministry. Beginning on November 20, you will find Christmas trees in the entrances at Calvary, with specific items written on the ornaments. Please take as many as you would like, and bring your gifts to the Calvary Café on December 4 and11.
There are many ways to be involved with the international students who come to our area each year to study at local universities and colleges; below highlights one of those ways. Each week our lunch conversation team goes to the English Language School at the GVSU campus in Allendale. We spend an hour with international students during their lunch break. This allows the students an opportunity to practice their English and for us to get to know each other better. 120 students are currently enrolled in the language school: 80 students from Saudi Arabia and the remaining students from Vietnam, Japan, Taiwan, Brazil and Libya. Meeting our volunteers at ELS is often the highlight of an international student’s week. Beth Nesseth, a volunteer from Calvary, remembers the first time she met Fatimah and Sukinh, “They didn’t even want to take time to eat their lunches, because they were so overjoyed to speak with us.” Abdul, one of the students at ELS, was surprised and delighted to see the four-year-old son of Heather Harrison. After picking him up, Abdul commented, “Oh, he reminds me of my nephew back at home.” This ministry is not only a blessing to the students, but to us as well. We need men and women of all ages to be involved in the lives of international students. Please pray about being a part of Neighbors International. For more information contact, Cynthia Sommerfeld at neighbors_international@ calvary.org or 616-676-7292.
Missionary Christmas Operation Christmas Child Make a Calvary missionary’s Christmas a bit brighter.
We have the joy of helping to make Christmas a bit brighter for our faithful workers whose overall support levels are sometimes well below what is needed. Throughout October, we will collect gifts to bless our missionaries. This will help provide the needed funds for that special vacation, enjoy a visit from a child who may be far away, purchase that special gift, or just use it for something ordinary that you and I take for granted. Would you give generously of your resources to brighten their Christmas? Simply indicate “Missionary Christmas” on the church envelope or on the memo line of your check. Donations will be accepted through October 30. Thank you for sharing in the joy as we approach the Christmas season.
Box collection begins November 6 Join us again this year as we seek to bring joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world. Make a difference in their lives through the gift of a simple shoebox filled with small toys, and items the rest of us take for granted. Use a standard size shoe box, or a small plastic container (boxes will not be supplied) and as you are filling your box, pray for the child who will be receiving it. A limited supply of donation envelopes with labels is available at the children’s check-in desks at Entrances K and M, and at the Information Desk. Online giving is also available, as well as labels to print; go to www.samaritanspurse.org/occ. Bring your filled boxes on November 6, 13, or 20 to one of the drop-off locations in Entrance C, J, or N.
grace discovered: a true story by Ron Haas, Elder 2010-2011 Board Members Elders
Lee Brenner
(lbrenner@calvarygr.org)
Eric Cerling
(ecerling@calvarygr.org)
Jim DeVries
(jdevries@calvarygr.org)
Ron Haas
(rhaas@calvarygr.org)
Larry Hulst
(lhulst@calvarygr.org)
Les Lamborn
(llamborn@calvarygr.org)
Noe Palacios
During our 59 years, we can testify that we have never lacked for anything we needed. God has blessed and met our needs sometimes in miraculous ways. For example, one day I took our beat up Chevy coupe in for some much needed maintenance. When I picked it up after school, I found it had 4 new tires on it. When I said I couldn’t pay for them, the owner said they were all paid for. One of the booster club members from the school came I have always been intrigued by Malachi 3:10 where God by, saw my car on the promises the Israelites that if they would “Bring the whole rack, saw the worn tithe into the storehouse... see if I will not throw open the tires, and had them refloodgates of heaven and pour out a blessing.” Could that placed at his expense marvelous promise possibly also apply to us today in the - a miracle? It was to 21st century? My wife and I have lived the experience, so us! I could go on with here is our answer to that question. similar examples. In our study of the grace of giving from 2 Corinthians 8 & 9, you might be asking yourself, “I know that God promises to bless generous givers, but could that really apply to me?” One Calvary couple has experienced the grace of giving in their lives and wanted to anonymously share their journey to generosity.
(npalacios@calvarygr.org)
Mike Still
(mstill@calvarygr.org)
Tom Thurston
(tthurston@calvarygr.org)
Dan Visser
(dvisser@calvarygr.org)
Jerry Ward
(jward@calvarygr.org)
John Zimmerman
(jzimmerman@calvarygr.org)
Deacons
Ed Avink Robert Bass Gerrit Bos Steve Doren Robert Johnston Chad Kerr Tom Miller David Radde Jeff Rogers Howard Timmer Dan Wiersma Todd Wilde If you have any questions or comments about this month’s note or other topics, please email one of the elders listed above.
12 | October 2011 | calvarygr.org
We were married in June the day after I graduated from college in the early 1950s. Our church taught the importance of tithing, so we made a commitment as husband and wife to tithe off the top of our gross income (read first fruits). At the time, we owned a two-door Chevy coupe, our personal belongings, and a few hundred dollars we had saved in anticipation of marriage. We were not rich in material things, but we had a growing faith in God. I accepted a teaching/coaching position in a Christian high school, and we began to build our life together. At the end of our first year of marriage, we were blessed with the first of our four children. We rented a furnished house the first year I taught, the second year we rented an unfurnished house and bought furniture, the third year we were able to buy a small home, and we were off to the races being richly blessed along the way. This past June, it will be 59 years since we were married and made our commitment to give God a tithe from our first fruits and test God’s promise in Malachi 3:10. The verdict is in and the answer to the question whether God still blesses cheerful givers (See also 2 Corinthians 9:7-8) is a resounding - Yes.
My wife was a “stay at home mom” from the beginning and we’ve raised four children, all with college educations and happily married. Our income has been more than adequate to provide for all that, including allowing me to do advanced graduate work. My wife resumed a career as an executive secretary after our youngest was in junior high. We were so blessed, and we began to accumulate discretionary income. It was natural for us then to increase our giving and begin proportionate giving. We went from 10% to 15% and then to 20%. We now give over 50% and are hoping to do more. Our net worth is in seven figures, and we have been blessed to give two buildings in recent years to Christian organizations. We have discovered some fabulous truths along the way namely that “God does love (and bless) cheerful givers,” and “You can’t out give God, but it sure is fun trying.” In the parable of the ten talents (Luke 19:11-27), Jesus taught that if you are faithful with a little, God will give you more responsibility. Are you a faithful steward of the resources God has entrusted to you? If you would like to discover more about how the grace of giving can change your life, go to generousgiving.org.
meet me at the
marketplace
November 10 6:00 – 9:00pm * Tickets: $8
W
W
women’s ministry
calvary church fellowship hall
Bring your girlfriends and join us for hors d’oeuvres and a one-stop marketplace—with everything from baskets to carved ornaments, from jewelry to soaps, from artwork to bags. . . But the best part of the evening might just be the moment when we all slow down for a reflection from Jill Herweyer about how she uncovered what she really needed in order to feel God’s amazing blessings in the midst of life’s chaos.
*
Tickets are required in advance and will be available beginning mid-October.
CALVARY CHURCH
PROGRAM GUIDE Sunday Morning Worship Service 8:10am, 9:40am, 11:15am | Sanctuary
Quick Connect administrative staff information in alpha order by ministry
Benevolence
Pastoral Care
Calvary Community
Senior Adults
Children
Serving
Community Outreach
Special Needs
Facilities
Students
Lynnell Bok lbok@calvarygr.org ext. 3510
Brenda Neher bneher@calvarygr.org ext. 5650
Carla Boon-Julien cboonjulien@calvarygr.org ext. 5067
Sharon Kaiser skaiser@calvarygr.org ext. 5077
Melissa DeBoer mdeboer@calvarygr.org ext. 5097
Library
Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672
Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672
Judie Fielstra jfielstra@calvarygr.org ext. 5095
Elleen Fitzgerald efitzgerald@calvarygr.org ext. 5623
Natalie Uecker calvarystudents @calvarygr.org ext. 5181
library@calvarygr.org ext. 5290
Technical Services
Marketing
Women
Jackie Rice jrice@calvarygr.org ext. 5042
media@calvarygr.org
Elaine Meredith emeredith@calvarygr.org ext. 5186
Men
Worship
Missions
Young Adults
Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618
Chris DeHaan missions@calvarygr.org ext. 5022
Kristen White kwhite@calvarygr.org ext. 5155
Mason D. Sherrill msherrill@calvarygr.org ext. 5036
Church Phone Number: (616) 956-9377 14 | October 2011 | calvarygr.org
October 2011
Sunday Evening Worship Service
Church Office Hours Monday-Friday: 8:30am-5:00pm Sunday: 7:30am-12:30pm
Children Carla | childrensministry@calvarygr.org | ext. 5067 WOW Wednesdays | 6:30-7:50pm | Entrance K
at calvarygr.org until October 5 or at the Children’s Ministry Office, Monday-Friday.
6:00pm | Chapel
WOW is a time for kids, five-years-old to fourth grade, to interact as they exercise their minds, bodies and souls in chosen electives and discuss faith concepts in small groups. Pick up a WOW brochure at the Information Center at the back of the Sanctuary, or at the Children’s check-in desks. Li’l WOW: Three and four-year-olds can join us for Li’l WOW where we will learn Bible stories, make crafts and memorize scripture. Li’l WOW meets in room 250. LUMIN8 Children’s Choir Wednesdays | 6:00-6:40pm | Room 251
Creating a Family Road Map October 9- 30 | 11:15am | Room 131 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. Includes lecture and discussion based on the Family Road Map guidebook (provided free), as well as opportunity to interact with other parents in the same “boat” as you! Ongoing parentcommunity groups will be explained at the conclusion of the class. Space is limited, R.S.V.P. to childrensministry@calvarygr.org at ext. 5067 to reserve a guidebook.
LUMIN8 will proclaim God’s glory in a variety of performances throughout the year: Sunday morning services, Child Dedication song, a Christmas program, and a spring concert. At the end of the year, the choir will record and produce a CD of original music written by the Children’s Ministry. Children also participating in the WOW Wednesday programming, will be taken to their elective at 6:40pm.
Child Dedication Service October 16 | 4:30pm | Chapel At our Child Dedication services, extended family members and friends have the opportunity to show support as parents commit their children to the Lord. If you would like to dedicate the newest addition to your family, please contact Carla (childrensministry@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5067 by October 10 to submit your information.
Elementary Kids Bowling Bash October 9 | 12:55-2:30pm Kingdom Kids (five-years to fourth grade), come enjoy bowling and pizza with your teachers at Eastbrook Lanes (by Centerpointe Mall), 3500 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. Tickets are $6 per child along with one canned food item for Calvary’s Food Pantry. This cost will include bowling, two slices of pizza, one drink and shoe rental. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available
5th-8th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 The Main Event Sunday Mornings | 9:40am 5th/6th: Room 109 | 7th/8th: Room 108 On Sunday morning, we spend time hanging out, worshiping, and finding creative ways to learn more about God’s Word as a community of middle school students. Our theme this year is Cafeteria: never dine alone. It’s our desire to emphasize
to students why it’s important to be with other Christians as we grow closer to God. 5th/6th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Refuge Wednesdays | 6:30-8:00pm | 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! Fall Retreat October 28, 5:30pm - October 29, 5:30pm | Location: Grace Adventures | Meet at Entrance D | Cost: $55 ($50 if you register by Oct. 16) Our annual Fall Retreat is an amazing time to get away to spend time with friends and make new ones. On our retreats we are able to squeeze great fun, exciting worship, exciting games, challenging teaching, sling shots and real friendships into one exciting 24-hour period. We can’t stress enough what a great weekend this is going to be. 7th/8th Grade calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Oasis Room 108 | 6:30-8:00pm Oasis is our Wednesday night small group program. Want to go deeper asking specific questions about topics that concern you? Want to make some close friends? Want to get to know some of our fun, caring leaders on a more personal level? 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 in the school year, just show up! High School calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 UNITED 6:00-8:30pm | Room 108 If you are in high school, you belong with us at UNITED. Come out for a night of worship through singing, learn from God’s word, interact
with friends and leaders in small groups, play fun games and watch crazy videos…anything could happen. This fall we’re in our series called “The Vandalized Masterpiece,” which will take us through the very beginning of it all... We will find out how our world got to be the way it is today, and how God’s once perfect masterpiece became ruined. Spaces Fall Retreat October 15-16 | Grace Adventures Early Bird Registration (by Sept. 26): $80 Regular Registration: $90 There is no better way to meet people at United than by coming to the fall retreat. We are heading to Grace Adventures Camp to experience a retreat that will help you think about your relationship with God and with others. This year we will discuss “Spaces” together, looking at the relationships in our lives, how we handle them (and how we should…), and why community is so necessary. How do you live out healthy community as a high school student? Come and find out on the fall retreat. For more information about the retreat, pick up a registration form at United on Sunday nights, at the Student Ministries office during the week, or online at calvarystudents.com anytime! Young Adults a ministry for young adults 18-34 Mason | msherill@calvarygr.org | ext. 5036 Young Adult Ministry Fall Retreat October 21 at 5:00pm - October 22 at 5:00pm Cost: $30 | Sign up in your respective community Take an opportunity to be recharged and refreshed by the relaxing and restful setting of
Camp Beechpoint. Join the College, Merge, and Foundations communities for a weekend retreat filled with fellowship, encouraging teaching, fun games and rest. College a community for young adults 18-22 Natalie | nkompik@calvarygr.org | ext. 5165 College Ministry Lunch Sundays | 12:30pm | Room 121 Are you looking for a way to connect with other college students who attend Calvary on Sundays? You are invited to join the College Ministry for 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. For more information, contact Natalie Kompik. 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 students from the Grand Rapids area and to grow in our faith together. For more information contact Natalie Kompik. College Discipleship: On Campus Groups These community groups meet on-campus once a week during lunch at various college campuses. Gather with fellow believers for an informal time of sharing and catching-up about what is happening in our lives. Contact Carl Crispin (ccrispin@calvarygr.org). October 2011 | calvarygr.org | 15
MErge (Ages 22-34) a community for single young adults Mason | merge@calvarygr.org | ext. 5036 Merge Fall Color Tour October 8 | 9:00am | Meet at Entrance J Ready for a fall adventure with Merge? Join us for a fall color tour. After an early morning stop for coffee, we’ll meander north to enjoy the beauty of fall. Bring some money for meals and any fall décor you might want to purchase from roadside stands. Merge Community Lunch October 30 | 12:30pm | Room 137 The Merge community will be joining together for fellowship and lunch immediately after Merge. Sign up on Sundays to bring a salad or dessert to share. We hope to see you there! Foundations (Ages 22-32) a community for young couples JP | jgaylord@calvarygr.org | ext. 5541 Sundays | 11:15am | Room 125 Join us this fall for our series Life 101 – why doctrine actually matters and how it influences our lives. Contact JP Gaylord for more information. Calvary Community Brenda | bneher@calvarygr.org | ext. 5650 Monday Night Bible Study Monday | 7:00-8:35pm | Chapel | Teachers: Helen Stewart and Ed Kaleefey Monday Night Bible Study is a place where men and women come together for fellowship, prayer and studying God’s Word. The study for the fall semester is Nehemiah: A Man with Heart, written
by Nancy Samra. Nehemiah’s life is rich in lessons for us today. Contact Dave Thrasher at 243-6603 (men) or Carol Spencer at 942-4743 (women) if you have any questions. Join anytime. Growing Strong Families Adult Sunday Class Sundays l 9:40am l Room 130-132 This class is designed for parents who desire to know more about what God has to say about implementing intentional parenting and building strong marriages. Come experience the joy of sharing and learning with other parents who are in the same walk of life. Some of our topics include: practical parenting techniques, sharing your faith with your children, teaching your children to pray and a study called Be Prepared – Equipping Kids to Face Today’s World. This class is taught by Jerry and Shirley Southland. Contact Scott & Diana Haid (haids@comcast.net). Adult Sunday Classes Adult Sunday Classes are made up of various size groups of people that meet for fellowship, education and outreach. Find a class that’s perfect for you. There are classes for adults of all ages, stages and interests from singles to parenting teens to senior adults. For exact location and class descriptions, pick up a copy of the Adult Sunday Classes brochure at the Connection Point or online at calvarygr.org. Family Life Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Honeymooner’s Class Did you know that your first year of marriage is one of the most important years of your relationship? It sets the course for your future together.
HEROES
aren’t spectators Wednesday, October 12 5:15pm – 6:30pm RSVP online at calvarygr.org or pick up a brochure at the Connection Point
16 | October 2011 | calvarygr.org
We want to make sure your marriage starts with a solid foundation, one based on Biblical principles that will stand the test of time. If you are in your first year of marriage join us for this 12-week class starting in October. Contact Lou DeGraaf (ldegraaf@calvarygr.org) at ext. 3618 for details. Marriage Prep Workshop Sundays, October 9-23 | 1:00-5:00pm | Yellow House | Cost: $75 per couple We believe it is necessary to know as much as possible about each other going into marriage. It is important to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, as well as faith and fears, in order to build your relationship into all that it can be – into all that God intended it to be. Contact Regina to register. men Lou | men@calvarygr.org | ext. 3618 UM/MSU Football Game - Family Event October 15 | Room 108 | Kick-off Time TBA Sport your favorite team colors, shirts and flags as we watch the Wolverines play the Spartans. Guys and gals are invited. Bring your family, friends and favorite finger food; watch the big game via satellite reception on large screens. Pastoral care Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Confident Caregivers October 17 | 11:30am -1:00pm | Room 123 Confident Caregivers of West Michigan is a monthly support group for sharing needs, questions, answers and encouragement. Please join us this month as Holland Home presents on the topic of “Better Bones and Joint Protection.” R.S.V.P. by October 13 to Regina. Chera October 25 | 6:15pm | Room 129 Chera is a support group designed to reach out with the comfort found in Jesus Christ to those who have lost spouses. Chera has a monthly dinner with special guest speakers who address various topics relating to your journey. R.S.V.P. to Marian Mason at 554-9262 if you plan to attend.
Mental Illness Support Group October 25 | 7:00pm | Room 114 On a national scale, an estimated 4.5 million Americans have a severe mental illness. Getting these individuals into a continuous mode of treatment is a challenge facing many families. This group is designed to offer families the help, encouragement and support they need. Contact John or Betty Walker at 956-6141. GriefShare Workshop Tuesdays | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 207 | $20 This support group, led by facilitators who understand what you are experiencing, is for people grieving the loss of someone close. It will offer you comfort and encouragement during this difficult time as well as give you the opportunity to interact with others who have experienced a recent loss. For more information, contact Regina. Lies Women Believe October 12 | 6:30-8:00pm | Yellow House This ten-week Nancy Leigh DeMoss study sheds light on how we can be set free to walk in God’s grace, forgiveness and abundant life. Claim the truth and find freedom. If you’re interested in joining this support group, contact Regina. Prayer Groups Intercessors Prayer Group Wednesdays | 6:45pm | Room 212 Open to anyone who is interested in praying for Calvary Church, its pastors, its staff, its volunteers, its congregation and its programming. For details, or to submit prayer requests, contact prayer@calvarygr.org. Pastor Jim Samra’s Prayer Team People on this team agree to pray daily for the Samras and for the church. Jim sends out weekly prayer requests to the team as well as requests throughout the week when he needs immediate help. Contact Ruth Gudbrandson (rgudbrandson@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5013. Pastors’ Prayer Partners You will receive weekly updates from the Pastoral Staff via email or postal mail. Your obligation is to pray with a team of prayer warriors during one service a month, and pray in your own home
Sunday, October 30 6:00pm | Sanctuary
Hear Our Heart A service to hear and celebrate what God is doing around the world and the ways he is using Calvary Church. A reception in the Fellowship Hall will follow, with details on 2012 short-term mission opportunities. regularly for their requests. Contact Arlene Timmer (hrtakt@iserv.net) at 365-0728. Prayer & Fasting for the Unemployed Thursdays | 12:00-1:00pm | Chapel Please join us every third Thursday for a time of prayer and fasting for the unemployed. Prayer for Prodigals First Sunday of the Month | 8:10am | Room 207 Almost all of us know someone who accepted the Lord somewhere in the past and now that person has slipped away from God and is living for self. This prayer group unites our hearts as one to pray our loved ones back to the Savior. Prayer for Worship Services Sundays | 7:45-8:05am (in Jim Samra’s office), 9:15-9:35am, 10:50-11:10am (in Room 215b, behind the Connection Point) You are invited to join others meeting on Sundays before each service to pray specifically that God would bless our morning services. All are encouraged to pick a time and come. Pray for Festival of Lights If you would like to pray for this year’s Festival of Lights production, a prayer calendar is available at the Sanctuary Information Center. Third Monday Missionary Prayer Pray for our missionaries serving around the world on the third Monday of each month at 12:00pm in room 207.
Special needs Elleen | efitzgerald@calvarygr.org | ext. 5623 Go-Getters (Adults with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Chapel The Go-Getter class is growing in size as well as knowledge of God’s Word. Their studies this fall will include the book of John, and additional biblical characters. The students continue to care for and pray for others with such sincerity and love. Mentors are needed to bring them through our booklet “Understanding Faith in Jesus” and the process that follows. Explorers (Children with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 114 Explorers Sunday morning class is an interactive, sensory-based learning excursion through God’s Word! We are exploring God’s Word to learn and grow in Him through our own abilities. As we continue on in our adventure, we are equipping our students to learn in an environment that best suits their needs as followers of Christ. Some of our students start their journeys with Explorers with the ultimate goal of inclusion within Calvary’s community. Seekers (Youth with Special Needs) Sundays | 11:15am | Room 112 In Seekers, we are equipping ourselves with the armor of God! We are discovering how to “wear” God’s armor every day by actively studying His Word. Through the use of different fine motor skills and stimulating activities, Seekers are equipping themselves with important values, engaging in them, and demonstrating them to others. October 2011 | calvarygr.org | 17
Senior Adults Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Monday Monthly Luncheon October 3 | 10:20am | Fellowship Hall Cost: $7 Join us this month for a presentation by Bibles International with Glenn & Becky Kerr. Please make reservations with Howard & Arlene Timmer at 365-0728, Virginia Claybrook at 940-1807, or Terry & Linda Markham at 247-8619 by September 27. Wednesday Morning Bible Study Wednesday | 9:30am | Chapel Join us this fall as Tom Couch continues his series from the book of Genesis 11 ”Learning to Live by Faith” - studies in the life of Abraham. Refreshments are served from 9:30-9:50am, and the study begins promptly at 10:00am. Women Elaine | emeredith@calvarygr.org | ext. 5186 MOPS Thursdays (1st/3rd/5th) | 9:00-11:15am Fellowship Hall (Room 129) MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 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. Childcare is provided. Registration forms are available at calvarychurchmops.blogspot.com and at the Sanctuary Information Center. Women’s Exercise Class Mondays | 9:30-11:00am | Gym Please join us any time! The class is led by a certified instructor. No fee registration! Injury waiver required. Contact Angela Crompton at 6821524 or Barb Mirandette at 365-9967. Limited childcare available. Contact Elaine Meredith at 956-9377 to secure a spot for your child. WoRsHIP Kristen | kwhite@calvarygr.org | ext. 5155 Moral Objections to the Old Testament October 2 | 6:00pm | Sanctuary Join us as Peter J. Williams (PhD University of Cambridge) speaks in our Sunday evening service. Dr. Williams is the Warden (CEO) of Tyndale 18 | October 2011 | calvarygr.org
House, Cambridge, UK, a world-leading evangelical center for biblical research. In addition he is a member of the English Standard Version committee, chairman of the International Greek New Testament Project, honorary Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies at the University of Aberdeen, and Affiliated Lecturer in the University of Cambridge.
Hungry College Students Need You We are looking for individuals, families, or Adult lasses who would be willing to join us in ministry by cooking a meal one Sunday a month for about 40 college-aged students. (Students would enjoy this meal after the third service.) Interested? Contact Natalie (nkompik@calvarygr.org).
SErving Opportunities Children’s Ministry Fall is here and it’s not too late to join this exciting team in changing children’s lives for eternity! There are opportunities to serve Sunday mornings, WOW, LUMIN8 on Wednesday evenings in every area of giftedness - in the classroom, or behind the scenes. Contact childrensministry@ calvarygr.org at ext. 5053.
MOPS Needs Childcare Providers MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) has a need for child care providers. By providing free childcare, MOPS is a wonderful outreach to mothers and children from our community who may not normally attend a church. Would you consider volunteering occasionally or on a regular basis? Contact Elaine Meredith (emeredith@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5186 for more details.
Festival of Lights - Behind the Scenes If you are interested in helping with behind the scenes stage crew, make-up, hair, hall monitors or dressing rooms during Festival of Lights performances. Please contact Christy VanAndel (cvanandel@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5161.
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. Contact Rich Dyer (richguy101@comcast.net).
First Impressions Team Members Needed We have six teams (Welcome, Greeting, Parking Lot, Connection Point, Information Center and Café Greeting) that you can choose to be part of this vital fun ministry. Contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5077 or Judie Fielstra (jfielstra@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5095 to sign up or to learn more.
Worship Teams The worship team is looking for musicians. If you play the drums, bass, guitar or sing, we would love to hear from you, please contact Andy Crowder (acrowder@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5612.
HEROES October 12 | 5:15-6:30pm | Fellowship Hall Have you ever felt like you were meant for something more? You’re invited to supper with ministry staff to learn more about their various areas of ministry and needs at Calvary Church. It’s easy to sign up, just pick-up a HEROES handout on Sunday, October 2 (includes room information). Then choose your area of interest, fill out the registration card and leave it at one of the Information Centers, Connection Point or in a HEROES bucket located throughout the building or register online at calvarygr.org. The deadline for registration is Friday, October 7. If you have any questions, contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5077. We look forward to meeting you on October 12!
Giving opportunities Lynnell | lbok@calvarygr.org | ext. 3510 Food Pantry This month we’re looking for the following items: • • • • • • •
Fresh fruits and vegetables Soups Stews Canned vegetables Juice boxes Various snacks Granola Bars
• • • • • • • •
Popcorn Shampoo Conditioners Band-Aids Hand and body lotions Shaving cream Razors Mouthwash
Clothes Closet Kid’s school clothes and cool weather items for the whole family are needed: winter boots, snow suits, leggings, heavy coats, mittens, gloves, hats and scarves. Your donations are greatly appreciated, please bring them to the Yellow House.
october calendar Sunday Monday tuesday Wednesday For all recurring weekly events, please refer to the web calendar at calvarygr.org or the back of the Sunday bulletin. 3
2 8:10am Prodigal Prayer Group
4
10:30am Seniors Luncheon
thursday
friday
saturday 1
5
6
7
8 9:00am Merge: Fall Color Tour
12
13
14
WFD Menu: Chili
15 High School: Spaces Fall Retreat
5:15pm HEROES
UM/MSU Football Game - Family Event
WFD Menu: Grilled Ham
6:00pm Moral Objections to the Old Testament 9 11:15am Creating a Family Road Map Begins 12:55pm Elementary Kids Bowling Bash
10
11
6:30pm Lies Women Believe Begins 17 18 19 20 16 11:30am WFD Menu: 12:00pm 4:30pm Confident Caregivers Lasagna Prayer and Fasting Child Dedication for the Unemployed Service Third Monday 5:15pm Missionary Prayer Explore Calvary 23 24 25 26 27 6:15pm WFD Menu: Chera Pork Loin 5:30pm Fifth/Sixth Fall 7:00pm 5:15pm Retreat Mental Illness Family Explore Calvary Support Group 30 31 12:30pm Merge Community Lunch
21
22
28
29
6:00pm Hear Our Heart
October 2011 | calvarygr.org | 19
Welcome to calvary church Welcome to Calvary Church! We know there are many churches you could have chosen to attend and we are glad you chose to be here. We believe that you are not here by accident, that God has brought you to this place for a specific purpose and we look forward to assisting you in any way that we can. We also believe that everyone who attends Calvary needs to be in community. It is in community that people experience the true blessings of life in Christ and life with one another. Please take time to find the community that is right for you, or plan on attending the all church Community Launch on Sunday, October 2 (register by September 26) to get connected with a group. Lee Content Pastoral Staff, Calvary Community
Need More Info?
Go to the Connection Point located through the Sanctuary doors on the right as you exit (in the Chapel wing) or stop at the Information Center at the back of the Sanctuary. Media Center: For past sermons or a series on CD, the Media Center is located through the Sanctuary doors on the right as you exit (in the Chapel wing). Children’s Activity Boxes: Located inside the Sanctuary doors by the Children’s wing. Explore Calvary This staff-led, four-week class is for people to learn more about Calvary, take a tour of the building and find out what your next steps in connecting may look like. Contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5173. Pastoral Need If you have a need and would like to speak to a pastor, please call the main church number, 956-9377 or email pastoralcare@calvarygr.org. A pastor is always available.
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 215a.
Calvary Café
9:00am-11:15am 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 parenting teens to senior adults. For exact location and class descriptions, pick up a copy of the Adult Sunday Classes brochure at the Information Center or at calvarygr.org.
Special Needs
Adult (Go-Getters): 11:15am *Youth (Seekers): 11:15am *Children (Explorers): 11:15am
Chapel Room 112 Room 114
*Pre-registration recommended
Children’s Ministries
Young Fives - Fourth Grade: 9:40am and 11:15am Visit the check-in desk at Entrance K on the lower level to register. Nursery Care: 8:10am, 9:40am and 11:15am For infants birth through preschool. Visit the check-in desk at Entrance M on the upper level to register.
Student Ministries
Middle School (MSM): 9:40am 5th & 6th Main Event (Studying Genesis) 7th & 8th Main Event (Studying Genesis) High School (United): 6:00pm (Studying Genesis)
Young Adults
Merge (Singles 22-34): 11:15am Foundations (Young Couples 22-32): 11:15am College Lunch (Young Adults 18-22): 12:45pm
Room 109 Room 108 Room 108 Room 137 Room 125 Room 121
Community is a place where you belong; a place where you develop relationships with other believers 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 sign up at calvarygr.org.