Reclaim | Summer 2015

From the neigh borh ood to the Natio ns

RECLAIM SUMMER 2015

RECLAIMING RIVERVIEW

How revitalizing a church in decline is bringing hope to an entire community.

PALESTINIANS, PENTECOST & PEACE A story of how Pentecost and Palestinians are infusing peace in the Jewish nation of Israel.

5 IDEAS FOR YOUR SUMMER SMALL GROUP

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HERE’S A THOUGHT . . .

If God is for us . . .

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New Life Church Wofford Heights – Relaunch Royal Family Kids Camp – Camp for abused and neglected children Haiti Missions Trip – Students and Adults Summer Camps – Children, Middle School and High School Outreach - Numerous large summer outreaches throughout Kern County I am confident that summer 2015 will go down as one of the most important summers in the history of our church. God, by his Holy Spirit, is supernaturally setting us up to reclaim, both in our city and around the world through missions, what the enemy thought he had stolen forever.

No question about it: the Devil is a thief and a robber. But the Spirit of God is raising up a people, or rather an army, who are serious about reclaiming what belongs to the Lord - a people full of the Holy Spirit who recognize their place in God’s story and the significance of this moment in history.

I’m reminded of the story in 1 Samuel 30 where David and his men come back to Ziglag to find that their enemy, the Amalekites, had come in and raided their homes, stolen their valuables, set fire to their community, and worse than anything, taken their loved ones captive.

Jesus said in John 10:10, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”

Scripture says David and his men wept until they could weep no more.

They were absolutely devastated by the carnage all around them. It appeared in the natural to be over, but 1 Samuel 30: 8 tells us, “But David inquired of the Lord . . .”

So David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I pursue this troop?

Shall I overtake them? “And He answered him, “Pursue, for you shall surely overtake them and without fail recover all.”

1 Samuel 30:8

We have been given the ministry of reclaiming what belongs to the Lord. This summer we are moving forward to see fresh life poured into people and places where the enemy has had his way for too long. Please join me in praying for and engaging in these important summer re-claiming initiatives.

City Center – (Old Montgomery Wards transformation into a vibrant ministry center in the heart of our city) Riverview Church Oildale – Relaunch

Mission One Eleven – Leadership development for our fall emphasis on unreached people groups The 99 – Preparations for fall city-wide outreach downtown Canyon Hills Church Revitalization Network - Reclaiming neighborhood churches As your pastor, I’m urging you.

Please do not just be a spectator.

Let’s be prayerful, and as the Holy Spirit nudges your heart toward one or more of these reclaiming initiatives, grab on and help take back (reclaim) what the enemy has stolen. If God is for us, who

cares who’s against us!

We love you and thank God for you!

Wendell and Lynda Vinson Pastor

Canyon Hills Assembly of God exists to inspire and equip people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

We accomplish our purpose as we grow together in INTIMACY with God, in COMMUNITY with other believers, and in INFLUENCE in our world.

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HIGH FIVE

NICK & RACHEL MCLEAN Nick and Rachel met and married at Canyon Hills and have since added three children to their beautiful family; Jenna, Micah and their most recent addition Jonah. Nick has served as a deacon at Canyon Hills and this summer marks Rachel’s 10th anniversary as the leader of our bus ministry.

Rachel says, “I was 21 when God called me to start up the ministry and so incredibly scared to take what felt like a giant leap of faith. I had to learn how to drive an old 10-speed 40 foot 1966 school bus, learn how to be a good leader...and how to be a good follower. Through it all, the ups, the many downs, God has been so faithful and we have seen so many come to know the Lord through this ministry.

Thank you so much to all the wonderful leaders who have served in this ministry over the years! Because of you, eternities have been changed!”

Thanks, Nick and Rachel, for your leadership and the blessing you are to this church and our community!

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WELCOME

to the first issue of Reclaim!

The last couple of years have been a tremendous season of growth for our church family. In the last 18 months, we have doubled the number of Sunday services at our Canyon Hills campus, and in the last 6 months, we have adopted two campuses into our growing family (and our Riverview campus added a second Sunday service on Easter Sunday).

In the next few weeks, we will begin demolition and construction at City Center where in the near future we will plant two brand new congregations (English and Spanish) to reach the heart of our city. We know for certain that God is at work, and we look forward with anticipation to what He has in store for us in the days ahead.

Every week, we are hearing testimonies of people coming to faith in Christ, marriages that were broken being restored, people bound by addiction being set free, and more. One of the primary purposes of this publication is to share these stories with you because whether it’s someone sharing your pew or meeting on a campus across town, this is your church family.

And whether you are a part of the parking team or preaching team, if you are serving your church, you are being used by the Lord to make a very real difference!

Let your light shine!

Jen Watts Editor Canyon Hills Assembly of God 7001 Auburn Street Bakersfield, CA 93306 Riverview Assembly of God 315 May Street Bakersfield, CA 93308 New Life Assembly of God 25 Arden Avenue Wofford Heights, CA 93285 COMING SOON City Center 3201 F Street Bakersfield CA 93301

CONTENTS RECLAIMING RIVERVIEW Page 8

FEATURES

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FIVE IDEAS FOR YOUR

SUMMER SMALL GROUP

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TOP TEN SUMMER TRAVEL TIPS

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TESTIMONY

HIGHLIGHT: THE

MISSION AT KERN COUNTY

PALESTINIANS, PENTECOST & PEACE Page 14

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BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO THE KERN RIVER VALLEY

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FIVE FAMILY

FRIENDLY WAYS TO

ENJOY YOUR SUMMER

WITHOUT BREAKING

THE BANK

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RECLAIM

SENIOR PASTORS | Wendell & Lynda Vinson EDITOR | Jenifer Watts ASSISTANT EDITOR | Elexa Henderson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Katie Blodgett, Elexa Henderson, Evan Henderson, Brooke Vinson, Wendell Vinson, Jenifer Watts CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Mary Davis, Elexa Henderson, Evan Henderson, Gabriel Juarez, Randy Loveall, Heidi Parra, Jean-Luc Slagle, Jon Slagle, Jesse Vallejo, Michael Wong, Wayne Wong PUBLISHED BY Canyon Hills Assembly of God - 7001 Auburn Street Bakersfield, CA 93306 canyonhills.com QUESTIONS/COMMENTS/IDEAS Write to us at reclaim@canyonhills.com

MEAL ON THE GRILL

IN EVERY ISSUE 2

HERE’S A THOUGHT A note from Pastor Wendell

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HIGH FIVE Ashout-out to an outstanding

volunteer or leader in the church

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YOU SAID IT Quotes and photos from recent events

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IN THE KNOW A calendar of upcoming events for each campus

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“I have attended the Red & White Gala for two years.

It is always a beautiful, spirit-filled, inspiring event that raises awareness and provides a ministry to combat Human Trafficking.�

Jacquelyn S. Jans, Marketing & Corporate Image Consultant

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“Experiences like the one we had at this year’s National Day of Prayer event make me feel so fortunate to be a worship leader. Just hearing business leaders, teachers, farmers and hundreds of others from our community praising and seeking God together made for a powerful moment.”

Kaleb Amos, Canyon Hills Worship Leader at the 2015 National Day of Prayer Gathering at The Marketplace

“I loved being able to worship with fellow Christians from around the city and lift our nation up in prayer together. The older I get, the more I realize the power and importance of prayer community.”

Haley Slagle, Canyon Hills Worship Leader at the 2015 National Day of Prayer Gathering at The Marketplace

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RECLAIMING RIVERVIEW

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How revitalizing a church in decline is bringing hope to an entire community.

by Elexa Henderson

Author Leonard Ravenhill tells the story of a church years ago in which a minister placed a sign on the outside of his church. The sign read, “This Church will either have a revival or a funeral.”

“This Church will either have a revival or a funeral.”

Riverview Assembly of God has been in existence in Oildale since the 1950’s, and as of November 2014, the church was at risk of having a funeral. Over the years, the congregation had dwindled down to twelve or fifteen individuals in its weekly attendance. There were no children’s ministries or youth in the church, and a sense of defeat was closing in.

Still, a remnant of faithful members remained and were praying that the Lord would show them how they could once again be a church that would make a difference in their community.

Craig Amos is a long-time Assemblies of God pastor in the Bakersfield area. With a passion to reach the community and to restore revival to the congregation, he was deemed the right man for the job. Craig and Angie Amos were installed as the Campus Pastors of Riverview Assembly of God by Pastor Wendell on January 4, 2015.

Men from both the Canyon Hills and Riverview congregations come together to make repairs during a work day at Riverview

As a result of the visionary leadership of the SoCal Network of the Assemblies of God, a new emphasis is being placed on neighborhood church revitalization. The SoCal Network approached Canyon Hills about helping Riverview, and in an effort to keep this church in an area with great need alive, Canyon Hills offered to “adopt” the congregation and “revitalize it for Oildale”.

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There were no programs for children or youth just a few months ago. Now there are a faithful group of kids and teens every week!

The church immediately received a wind of revival and began to grow. And, with people receiving Christ as their Savior and families in Oildale coming to fill the pews every week, it has been growing ever since. Even a few who left the church in previous years have come back from hearing reports of the new things happening at Riverview.

Additionally, the few longtime members of Riverview have been excited and gracious with all the new things taking place. Attendance has now jumped to seventy-five to one hundred individuals on any given Sunday morning. Pastor Craig relates that nearly every Sunday “…someone responds to the invitation to come to Jesus Christ as Savior!” In January, approximately four or five

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people came to the church for midweek services. Now, Thursday evenings host around seventy to ninety individuals and are continuing to expand. Pastor Craig relates his and his wife’s excitement that the turnaround has occurred so quickly, “[We] are excited and full of expectation at the future potential of Riverview reaching hundreds in Oildale for Jesus Christ. The area is full of hurting, needy people and many children that need the love of Christ!”

From a dismal state, the Riverview Campus of Canyon Hills is now a happening place of ministry shining the light of Jesus in Oildale. This change has not happened overnight, though.

Revitalizing and growing a congregation

is difficult, and much help is required.

Pastor Craig is thankful that a few members from Canyon Hills have felt called and compelled to come help with what the Lord is doing at Riverview.

Shannon Castro, from Canyon Hills, visited Riverview the first Sunday of the re-launch and felt like God called her to start a kids’ ministry there. Now, the Riverview children’s ministry meets on Sundays and Thursdays. Rising from humble beginnings with zero children in attendance, Shannon now finds herself leading a growing ministry with thirty to fifty kids in attendance every week. Without individuals like this from the Canyon Hills Main Campus seeing a need and accepting a call to help, Riverview would not be thriving like

who are committed to help. Another exciting element of Canyon Hills stepping up to serve Riverview is the house that resides next to the church. Originally used as the parsonage, it now serves as a home for young men who are part of the Canyon Hills Leadership School. These six to seven men are actively involved in Christian service and gaining hands-on experience in ministry. From community clean-up to leading youth at Riverview, these men are impacting lives for Christ with their commitment to serving the community of Oildale.

Other successes include a recent “Love Your Family” Sunday in February, an outreach to families in Oildale with over two-hundred in attendance; Oildale’s Biggest Easter Egg Hunt at the nearby Riverview Park with over four-hundred present; a Good Friday drama with illustrated sermon “The Whip, Hammer, & Cross”; a Ladies’ Luncheon; and launching a weekly meeting of Celebrate Recovery Riverview on Tuesday evenings.

The Riverview Campus has also partnered with Church Without Walls and Flood Ministries for a special shower ministry to the homeless every Thursday. From a few people in attendance to a congregation of one hundred in just a few months, Riverview has become a thriving, healthy church that is able and ready to serve Oildale. Plans to remodel the Riverview facility are in order, and more growth is anticipated.

The Riverview Campus is the first of many churches to be reclaimed by Canyon Hills for God’s Kingdom. Recently announced, Canyon Hills will also embark on assisting the New Life Assembly of God in Wofford Heights and work on establishing the City Center at the old Montgomery Ward’s building in downtown Bakersfield. While the road is yet long, Canyon Hills will continue to see much fruit as it reclaims congregations and replaces funerals with revivals. And we look forward to you being a part.

Pastor Wendell Vinson installs Pastor Craig and Angie Amos as our Riverview campus pastors.

it is. Pastor Craig mentions, “This was a church that just back four or five months ago had virtually no youth or children in attendance.”

Now, Canyon Hills is seeing great miracles on its Riverview Campus, a “fish and loaves” sort of occurrence, but with people.

Revitalizing Riverview is an answered prayer of those who have faithfully supported this neighborhood church for decades.

In addition to the thriving children’s ministry, the Men’s Ministries of Riverview recently had a successful breakfast, and Danny Johnson from Canyon Hills has stepped up to serve as the Men’s Ministries Director. Pastor Craig hosted the Riverview Campus’s first staff meeting last week, with seventeen people in attendance

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FIVE IDEAS FOR YOUR SUMMER SMALL GROUP Opportunities to strengthen relationships, create new memories, and grow in Christ through community with your small group

by Evan Henderson, Small Groups Director Small group leaders face an important decision every mid-year when the weather starts warming up: “should we break for summer or not?”

Many find that the summer season is a busier time because of vacations, little league schedules, and strategies devised to escape the heat. But what about the opportunities to strengthen relationships, create new memories, and grow in Christ through community with your small group?

“Summer Vacation” can mean more than a camping trip; it can also be a break that can limit what God might have planned for your small group.

Even if you are building great momentum during the rest of the year, the summer recess can pause growth and suspend breakthrough in your group.

By considering theses five ideas with your group, we hope that you will continue to cultivate consistency with your small group this summer.

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Consistency is Key Make sure your small group meets consistently on the same day and same time each week even if everyone can’t make it. When everyone isn’t there, take the opportunity that a smaller group provides to build relationships and cultivate personal conversations. Consistency breeds momentum in your small group. When people know when your group meets every week, they are able to plan accordingly and make it a priority to attend.

Explore Different Meeting Places Don’t limit where your group meets every week.

Have a BBQ, go to the park, go hiking, play basketball, host a swim party! As long as the day and time are the same, it’s okay to change up the location. Your small group is about building community and growing in Christ together.

Building relationships outside of a group’s regular location (home or coffee shop) will cause a deeper level of trust and accountability to blossom.

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Serve Together Summer is a great time to serve together.

Whether it’s on a service team on Sundays at one of our campuses, or joining an outreach event in the community, your group has countless opportunities each month to serve and grow together.

Create Memories Small groups are more than just attending a weekly Bible Study. They are also about living out what you learn corporately through the day-to-day in Christ. Together with your group, plan a camping trip, go to the beach, or just get away as a group. Create memories, do life, and break limits off of the 90-minute meeting you have every week. Remember, if you spend two days with your group, that counts for 32 weekly meetings!

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Don’t miss out on what God has for your small group this summer.

Instead, use your summer to make a lasting impact on your group and build meaningful relationships.

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Rethink the Group Will the current time and day continue to work over the summer? If not, discuss and change with your group, as necessary. Also, see what your small group would like to study or get out of this season. Is there a devotional plan you would all like to go through together or a summer series that excites the group as a whole?

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PALESTINIANS, PENTECOST & PEACE How Pentecost and Palestinians are infusing peace in the Jewish nation of Israel.

by Brooke Vinson

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Arab nations. It is the only democracy and has embraced pluralism in both race and religion. And while still the safest place for Christians in the Middle East, it has not been unaffected by the spirit Being engulfed in a comfort seeking of radical Islam sweeping through the and pleasure lusting culture can make region. it challenging for American Christians to empathize with the story of Pastor For the last several decades, Canyon Steven Khoury (Calvary Jerusalem Hills has regularly taken groups to visit Church). Our religious freedoms have the holy land on a spiritual, as well as insulated us from the common thread academic, pilgrimage. The trips vary year that weaves prominently throughout to year but Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ, continues to be one of the the international church: persecution. regular stops. What set this trip apart Pastor Khoury did not grow up in from the rest was the Empowered 21 a radical Islamic state. He was not Conference. born under a criminal regime. Pastor Steven Khoury grew up in Bethlehem, Empowered 21 is a global missions push Israel. A community once marked to see as many people reached for the

by Christian tradition and vibrancy Gospel by the year 2033, which will is now a Palestinian territory that is be 2100 years since Jesus’ ascension. predominantly Muslim. Israel remains Spirit-filled believers from all around the a refuge of freedom amongst the 22 world gathered in Jerusalem this May “At age 16, I was physically attacked and beaten by seven radical men with metal chains and wooden sticks for teaching a young man about Jesus Christ.”

for a time of renewal, focus, evangelism, and celebration of the Feast of Pentecost. Hundreds of people were baptized in the Jordan river, for what was historically, the first time people were baptized on both the Israeli and Jordanian sides. On the night of the feast of Pentecost, there was a great celebration service matched with outreaches in Bethlehem and other areas.

not shifted his stance nor stifled his voice. Through their ministry, Holy Land Missions, the Calvary Jerusalem congregation is raising up a new generation of leaders aimed at forging lasting bonds with the Israeli Jewish population and reaching every person with the transformational love of Christ.

Pastor Steven Khoury spoke at the Empowered 21 Conference on the persecuted church. His is a unique voice not only amongst Palestinians, but even within the Christian Palestinian circle. The overwhelming majority of Palestinian Christians would not recognize the state of Israel as legitimate, ascribing to replacement theology. This teaching is based on the idea that the Christian church has replaced national Israel in regards to God’s plan, purpose and promises.

Khoury beckons his fellow believers in Christ to love Israel and to bless her, believing that God’s covenant has not expired or changed.

Khoury beckons his fellow believers in Christ to love Israel and to bless her, believing that God’s covenant has not expired or changed. Khoury’s message raises stark opposition within his own ethnic and national identity as Word supersedes any and all racial, political, and social preferences, traditions, and beliefs.

The intense persecution and even martyrdom, that has touched the lives of Pastor Khoury and his family has

Recently, a team from our congregation traveled to Israel and were blessed to be guests in Pastor Steven’s church, enjoying worship and prayer with the congregation of Calvary Church in Jerusalem. In June, Pastor Steven spoke on a Sunday morning to the congregation of Canyon Hills, challenging them to take a stand in the midst of a culture that is bowing down.

As Khoury and his congregants well know, walking with Christ is often unpopular and uncomfortable. But the power of the Holy Spirit inside of the believer to change the world is simply, unstoppable.

“Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Mark 13:13

For more information about the history and ongoing conflict in Israel, visit www.cufi.org where there is a free informational booklet entitled, “Israel 101”. If you are interested in supporting and praying for Pastor Steven Khoury and his ministry in Israel, visit www.holylandmissions.org.

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TOP TEN SUMMER TRAVEL TIPS

by Elexa Henderson

Many fond memories from my childhood stem from places my family went and experiences my parents provided me and my younger brother with. I vividly remember the journey to Yellowstone, the day-trips to the coast, the tornado in Illinois, and getting snowed in, in Arizona. With both parents as teachers, growing up, summers were a time for our family to have great adventures together and to get away from our norm and learn something new. As a newly-married 20-something looking back on those moments that would not have happened without traveling, I am now even more thankful for the places my parents took me. These experiences brought greater perspective to life, opened my eyes to the world around me, caused a greater family bond, and were also a lot of fun.

Whether a brief weekender or a month-long hiatus, these tips will help make your summer trip all the more successful and memorable.

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1. Plan ahead. Preparation is key for a great road trip. It might seem simple, but make sure whatever vehicle you are taking is in good, working order before you leave town! Check your tires, make sure you’ve had an oil change recently, and maybe get a new air filter if you’re going on a long trip. I like to fill up my gas tank the night before taking off for an adventure. This alleviates some stress the morning of departure and makes for fewer stops on the way out of town. Also, leave your home neat and tidy. (You’ll appreciate coming back to this after being on the road.) Set a few timers for lights around your house to turn on and off at various hours automatically. This makes it seem like someone is at home even while you are away and helps deter any potential burglars.

2. Rain or Shine? Check the weather and any possible road construction ahead of time. I love using the Weather Channel app to see what the weather will be like wherever I am going. This determines what kind of clothing I pack, if I bring a rain jacket or not, if my car needs snow chains, or if my road trip needs to take a different turn. One of the great things I learned from my Dad early on was to call 1-800-GAS-ROAD before hitting the road. When you dial this number, simply enter the number of the highway you are taking to hear about any construction happening along your route. At times, this has caused me to take the 5 instead of the 166 to the beach or vice versa.

3. Pack thoughtfully, but lightly. Yes, I know you can cram a lot into your trunk, but road trips are the time to really think about what you’re taking with you. I always come home from a trip with at least a mug or a sweatshirt – in other words, something extra that I wasn’t originally planning on having space for. But above all, packing less often means that you have less chance of losing something that might be important to you or expensive to replace. Most people over-pack, thinking they will need something that ultimately, they won’t end up using or wearing at all. Take one set of clothes for every day, and then bring along one extra set. Remember, if you find that you’re lacking a razor for shaving or a favorite blanket, there are very few places now where there are zero amenities. Also, don’t forget to take cash with you. Sometimes you’ll need this for a parking fee at a campground, National Park, or for toll roads. You never know when a few bucks may come in handy.

4. Invest in the right things. It might seem ridiculous to pay over $80 for a pair of shoes, but depending on the adventure you are embarking on, it might end up being the best $80 you ever spent. Recently, I invested in some Chacos – I found them on sale, but they are overall, on the pricier side. I bought them as walking shoes for a trip I’m taking soon. Well, I have ended up wearing them everywhere – to Target, the grocery store, on neighborhood walks. Even to work. I love them because they have great support, and my feet don’t tire easily even with a lot of running around. This isn’t a pitch for the Chaco brand, but it is an encouragement to spend on what can make or break your trip. Flip flops on a rugged hiking trail or an entire day at an amusement park just won’t cut it.

5. Let everyone pick one activity. This is something I have heard of many families doing recently – allowing each person in the family to pick something to do on the trip.

This could be a place to eat, a museum to visit, or even as simple as responding to a desire for a pit stop. Road trips can be difficult for families because everyone may not always want to go to the same place. But allowing every individual to pick something that they really want to do gives each person something to look forward to and exposes the others to new horizons. Include each member of your family in the decision process in some way, and everyone will be sure to have a great time.

6. Priceline it! www.priceline.com offers some excellent rates on hotels and also rental cars. My experience using them so far has been positive overall. I really love what Priceline refers to as “Express Deals”. Instead of placing a bid on a hotel or paying the usual rate, these deals allow you to purchase hotel rooms at a lower cost (up to 60% off). The catch is this: the name of the hotel you will be staying at is hidden until after you have payed for it.

However, you can search for Express Deals using very specific parameters, so that before buying, you know how many stars the hotel will be and what amenities it has.

Another favorite of mine is AirBnb. Whether you need an entire place to yourself or are just looking for a room, AirBnb is a website built on relationships and breakfast. Simply search the area you are looking for in the price range you want, and you are sure to find at least a couple options for your choosing. continued on page 23

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WHY IS IT A PRIORITY FOR CANYON HILLS TO PARTNER WITH THE MISSION AT KERN COUNTY? LEO

KEELEY

Being at the mission has done a lot. It has helped me get closer to God and surrender. They welcome you with open arms.

They give you a bed, they feed you. They clothe you if you don’t have any clothes. They really lift you up. They love on you a lot.

I now know what unconditional love and completeness feels like thanks to the Mission and Canyon Hills. It means the world to me and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m home.

I started gang-banging at the age of 12. I didn’t come here because I was homeless or anything like that. I came here because I needed God. I needed Jesus. I needed to be restored. I needed to be a new creation. I was tired of being broken and being that mean, ugly gangster.

Every Sunday I come to church.

I’m an usher there. It’s just so amazing how you guys love. You guys make me feel so loved. It’s amazing. I’ve never felt that. I thank God first for that. And also for allowing me to work and help out at church and be a part of a church that loves on people.

I’ve never been to a church before. I love it. It’s changed me a lot. It’s changed me from the person that I used to be, to the person that I am now.

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I’ve been here for 6 months. My life has changed so drastically.

Before I got here, I was lost, hopeless, broken and brokenhearted. I know it sounds silly, but when you’re in addiction the devil lies to you and I believed a lot of those lies.

I have been to a place of brokenness and now I have a smile, I’m happy and I know how to love and also to love myself.

That’s a huge thing. Now I can be a better parent and maybe in the future, be a better wife. It’s up the Lord. With my daughter, her dad is in Heaven and I think, what a better Father to have than the Lord. It’s going to be okay. There is hope. There is a future. This is life, but there is something more and I know that and I thank the Lord every day for being real.

ANDREW

I’m lying on the floor. I was pretty much scared. I didn’t think I was going to end like that. I was lying there barricading myself hearing that people were going to come get me. So as I’m lying there, I’m looking up and it’s dark. I’m looking up and I ask God, I ask Jesus, please don’t let me go out like this.

In my thoughts I’m thinking, what am I going to do? I’m already getting set up. They want to kill me here. What should I do? And the first thing that came to my mind was the Mission of Kern County.

6 months ago, I was homeless, beat down, broken, cold and almost dead. And because of God, look at me, I’m here. So because of the Mission and God, they restored my life. I got to see my family and we are back together again after so long. I just can’t believe that after 6 months, look what God can do.

And I just want to say that the Mission has blessed me and Canyon Hills has been a part of my family too. It’s a beautiful feeling to say that your church is your family. I have never said that. Canyon Hills has such a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful feeling in their church.

To see the kids and their families and the devotions that they do, everybody knows that Jesus is there. That friendly, loving, open relationship with Him, I never had that.

SHEILA

We all have struggles and trials in our life, but when my mom passed, I was really mad at God and mad at the world and just fell into a pit of despair. I was stuck in my addictions and my hopelessness and just couldn’t see a way out.

I came to the Mission. It was on a Friday and I remember one of our counselors came and picked me up. Within a couple of hours, I was at Canyon Hills at Celebrate Recovery and I walked in there and just felt so welcome from the minute I walked in. I had never felt that way. I felt like I was at home in there. I had finally found a place where I fit in and where I could build my relationship with God. It was just so amazing and that was just a couple hours after I left being incarcerated.

Three weeks after that, I felt so welcome there that I wanted to be able to make others feel welcome and I have been greeting and ushering there since three weeks in. I have been firmly planted at Canyon Hills since.

The fact that everybody loves me so unconditionally there and they welcome me, it’s just an amazing place. It’s amazing that they are so supportive here and so loving.

I just stand in awe at everything that the Lord has done through the Mission and Canyon Hills.

TRANSFORMED LIVES. 19

RETURNING TO BAKERSFIELD THIS FALL

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THE

OCTOBER 2015 AT CITY CENTER

3201 F STREET BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 20

BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO THE KERN RIVER VALLEY Nestled in the heart of the Kern River Valley is New Life Assembly of God, a small church with a big heart. For close to a decade, Dave and Chris Taylor loved this congregation well. Under the leadership of Pastor Dave, New Life faithfully served the church and community in many practical ways.

and leadership of Canyon Hills are traveling to New Life each weekend to build relationships and assess the needs of the community. Nearly 20,000 people call Kern River Valley home. We believe there is great potential to make an impact in this area that is right in our backyard.

At the beginning of this year, as the Taylors neared retirement, they initiated conversations with the leadership of Canyon Hills and in June of 2015 we welcomed the congregation of New Life into our Canyon Hills family.

Over the summer months, the pastoral staff 21

From heat waves to the high cost of gasoline, it can be difficult to enjoy the summer season without paying a pretty penny or melting in the sun. For families who are looking to spend time together without enduring record-breaking temperatures, there are a few activities to enjoy while on a budget. You’ll not only keep the kids entertained but will have the opportunity to try something other than simply lounging poolside.

3. CAMP IN THE BACKYARD

1. ENJOY A PICNIC IN THE PARK

4. SHOP AT THE FARMERS MARKET

When the weather permits, you can bring along homemade sandwiches and a few chocolate chip cookies for a traditional picnic in the park as a family.

Visit Beach Park on 21st Street for a great place to stay cool in the shade under the large trees that loom overhead. The picnic area seats plenty of people and has several barbecues available.

You can even bring along sporting equipment to play a game on the baseball field or kick around a soccer ball.

FIVE FAMILY FRIENDLY WAYS TO ENJOY YOUR SUMMER WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

by Katie Blodgett

2. PLANT A VEGETABLE GARDEN As the price of food continues to rise, it can be difficult to afford healthy options without breaking the bank. Brush up on using your green thumb by planting a vegetable garden in the backyard with the summer season being the most ideal time to plant. Each member of the family can choose a vegetable they want to grow and learn how to harvest it once fall arrives. Kids can enjoy getting their hands dirty and the adults can appreciate the fruit of their labor.

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Enjoy a good old-fashioned “staycation” by camping in the backyard with the kids at night.

This can include pitching a tent or two, roasting s’mores over an open fire, and stargazing until it’s time to hit the hay. You can even end the night by watching a movie on a projector screen for a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the comfort of your home.

Pick up homemade hummus or local honey at the Brimhall Farmers Market for a great way to stock your fridge with fresh goodies every Saturday. You can shop for fresh food from several vendors who are more than willing to share their secrets to their flavorful roasted nuts and grass-fed meat options. Adults will enjoy the high quality of food choices while kids can have fun sampling different items.

5. VISIT THE LOCAL LIBRARY Kids can get a break from video games during their summer vacation by visiting the local library for a great way to stay current on reading. Ride your bikes as a family to the Baker Street Branch Library or the Beale Memorial Library to become bookworms by checking out a few mystery novels or fantasy audiobooks. Families with little ones can even visit the library to sit in on Reading Time for a fun way to hear an animated version of a classic book.

SUMMER TRAVEL TIPS CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 1 7

7. Do something new. We are creatures of habit – not just in our regular activities, but in our vacations, too. “We always go to Pismo for a week in the summer,” I hear. Or, “We always stop and eat at that restaurant on our way out of town.” While traditions are great, don’t be afraid to change it up and provide your family with a new and memorable experience. Drive up the California coast. If you’ve never tried hiking before, take your family on a short day-hike. Pick a destination, and take an unexpected road trip there. You never know what you might find.

8. Get roadside assistance. An example of this would be a company like AAA. AAA offers great discounts on hotels, museums, and other attractions. They will even plan your trip for you if you want. At any “triple-a” office, you can pick up free maps (with your membership) and Tour Books for just about anywhere. They also offer roadside assistance. If you do find yourself with a flat tire, dead battery, or another road trip-hindering car ailment, you will be so thankful for something like AAA. I have always been impressed with the services they offer along with their timeliness in responding to roadside needs.

9. A few must-have apps.

• Google Maps is, by far, the best free maps app available to road-trippers. If you miss a turn, Google Maps will automatically reroute you, and one of my personal favorite features is that you can see the current traffic state along your route. You can also easily search for food or gas stations near you. Putting aside the occasional glitch, with Google Maps, I have always ended up at the correct destination.

• For some music along your trip, check out the Tune In Radio app (available for most mobile phones). This app hosts over 100,000 radio stations and can be a great way to make the car ride go a little faster. Also, if you aren’t familiar with it, check out the Spotify app.

• Want to go on the greatest drive ever? Check out the “Greatest Drive” app (free on iOS and Android) in your app store.

If you need an idea for somewhere to drive or a new place to visit, this app is for you.

10. A note about social media. I have heard stories and read articles cautioning people about posting travel plans on social media. I have also read many Facebook posts saying, “Can’t wait for Florida!

Leaving town now!” or a post containing a similar sentiment. While we all get excited about getting out of town and taking a trip, avoid posting comments like the one above and pictures from your trip till after you return. You never know who may see your post and take it as an invitation to vandalize your property. Don’t post where you’re going and how long you’re going to be gone. When it comes to social media and travel plans, it’s always better safe than to be sorry.

Want to connect with your kids in meaningful ways this summer? HomeFront is perfect for you!

Available for iPad, iPhone & Android

HomeFront is a magazine designed to help parents and grandparents shape the faith in the lives of kids. It provides ideas on how to create fun, spiritually forming times in your home, even in the midst of busy lives. Subscribe for free today at homefrontmag.com 23

Ingredients Chicken: Three 2 1/2-pound frying chickens, split 4 tablespoons salt

MEAL

BBQ Sauce: 1 cup cider vinegar 3/4 cup peanut oil 1 teaspoon hot sauce, such as Tabasco 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

ON THE

GRILL is the perfect opportunity to fire up the

Chicken: Put the chicken halves in a very large bowl or deep pot and cover with water. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of the salt in the water, cover and refrigerate the chickens for 6 hours or overnight.

BBQ Chicken

Summertime

Directions

grill and enjoy Whether it’s a dinner with old friends or getting to know new ones, this simple

Ingredients

Mexican Grilled Corn

community.

and tasty meal evening fun and filling!

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4 ears of corn 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro leaves 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan 1 lime, juiced A dash of red chili powder Directions Take off the husks of the corn but leave the core attached at the end so you have something to hold onto. Grill the corn on a hot grill until slightly charred. Turn it so it gets cooked evenly all over, approximately 2-3 minutes on each side.

Mix the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt and cilantro together.

Put the grated Parmesan in a separate bowl. While the corn is still warm, slather it with the mayonnaise mix. Squeeze a fresh lime over the corn and sprinkle it with Parmesan. If you have adventurous taste buds, season your corn with chili powder. Go crazy! You can serve this side dish with extra lime wedges for garnish and good measure.

Ingredients

Peacher This!

will make your

BBQ sauce: In a saucepan, mix together the vinegar, remaining tablespoon salt, peanut oil, hot sauce, black pepper, 1/4 cup water and cayenne. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir well then remove from the heat. Drain the chicken from the salt water and pat the pieces dry. Place the halves on the grill, skin side up. Brush the top with the BBQ sauce and cook for 30 minutes. Turn the chickens skin side down and coat the top with sauce. Continue to grill the chickens for an additional 30 minutes, turning and basting the chicken every 10 minutes.

3 whole peaches 2 table spoons melted butter Cinnamon for dusting Raspberry sorbet Directions Slice the peaches in half and remove the pits. Brush the halves with melted butter and sprinkle them lightly with cinnamon. Place the peaches on the grill and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until they are soft and slightly charred.

Remove the peaches from the grill and place a medium size scoop of Raspberry sorbet in the pit of each peach. This is a no-hassle dessert that kicks regular ice cream cones to the curb.

IN THE KNOW

CANYON HILLS CAMPUS KID S KIDS CAMP July 7-10 at Pinecrest Christian Conference Center Kid’s camp is a 4 day/3 night camp where hundreds of kids from Southern California come for an amazing time of fun, games, and spiritual growth. It’s a once in a lifetime chance to make extraordinary friendships and get closer to an almighty God. Cost: $225 Contact: 661.871.1150, cody@canyonhills.com

KIDS WORSHIP NIGHTS 1st & 3rd Fridays at 6:00 PM at Fort Faith Kids can come to Fort Faith to have fun and learn new songs that we will be doing in Kids Church on Sundays. Parents are more than welcome to go on a date while kids release all of their energy through worship! Kids that attend Worship Nights are first to be chosen for our Worship Team on Sunday Mornings.

STU DE NT S ACTIVATE WORSHIP ARTS TRAINING CAMP July 6- August 7, M-Th Middle School Students are invited to our first worship arts training camp this summer. Topics will include guitar, bass, drums, keys, vocals, dance motions, projection, sound and lighting. Cost is $125 per student. Contact: 661.871.1150, ozone@canyonhills.com

AUTHENTIC HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP July 6-10 at Frazier Woods Conference Center Cost: $200 Contact: 661.871.1150, joseph@canyonhills.com

YO U N G ADU LTS JESUS CULTURE CONFERENCE July 30 - August 1 Cost: $200 Contact: 661.871.1150, joseph@canyonhills.com

GU EST SERVI C ES TEAM BREAKFAST Saturday, August 1 If you are serving or if you desire to serve in any area of our Guest Services teams, join us for our next quarterly meeting. A lot of exciting things are coming up in the days ahead! Don’t miss this informative time of coming together, eating some breakfast and preparing as a team for all that God has in store for us! Contact: 661.871.1150, guestservices@canyonhills.com

VO LUN TEER VISIT GUEST SERVICES Every Sunday If you are interested in helping make Sundays great, we would love to have your help! Visit Guest Services any Sunday for a list of areas to choose from! It’s a great way to get connected and get to know some fantastic people at Canyon Hills! Contact: 661.871.1150, guestservices@canyonhills.com

M EN MENS BREAKFAST Saturday, July 11 at 8:30 AM in the Gym Men are invited to join us for a great breakfast and time of fellowship! You’ll hear some inspiring testimonies and be challenged to be the man God created you to be. Contact: 661.871.1150, jeff@canyonhills.com

MENS BIBLE STUDY Thursdays at 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM at The Summit We are kicking off a brand new study, A New Normal, on August 13. Join us as we examine the lives of some great men of God and the encounter they had with God that changed their lives forever.

This study, based on the book of Romans, will help you discover the person and purposes of Christ!

Contact: 661.871.1150, jeff@canyonhills.com

MAN CAMP September 11-12 at Frazier Woods Conference Center Men are invited to get away to the mountains for an encounter with the Lord. Our speaker this year is Doug Green, Pastor of North Hills Church. Spaces are limited. Contact: 661.871.1150, jeff@canyonhills.com

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IN THE KNOW

CANYON HILLS CAMPUS O UTREAC H MISSION AT HOME CELEBRATION SERVICE The 3rd Saturday of Every Month at 1326 30th Street Help us serve the broken in our community! Each month we meet downtown for a worship service and message, and provide a meal, showers and a clothing giveaway.

Join us and be the hands and feet of Christ to those in need. Contact: Sign up any Sunday at Guest Services

LAMONT MISSIONS TRIP July 9-11 Interested in a short term, local missions opportunity? Join us as we head to Lamont to partner with a local church to impact their city.

This will be a great opportunity for students and adults who have a heart for missions and want to make a difference with their summer. Cost: $45 and includes an event t-shirt. Contact: 661.871.1150, morgan@canyonhills.com

FRA ZI E R WOO D S WORK DAY Saturday, September 5 at Frazier Woods Our campground is used yearround! Help us get it in shape to be a blessing to the camps and conferences that will use it this fall at our work day. We could use help from anyone with exprience in electrical, plumbing, painting or general maintenence. Contact: 661.871.1150, jeff@canyonhills.com

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GO I N G PU BLI C WATER BAPTISM Sunday, August 2 If you’ve never been baptized in water, what are you waiting for? Water baptism is the public confession of your faith in Jesus Christ. We will be celebrating with those who have decided to GO PUBLIC with their faith on Sunday, August 2. RSVP or get more info any Sunday at Guest Services or by texting GOINGPUBLIC to 24587.

F IR S T W EDN ESDAY FIRST WEDNESDAY PRAYER The First Wednesday of Every Month at 7PM at The Summit First Wednesday is the gathering where we share all of the new and exciting ministry initiatives that are happening at Canyon Hills and pray over the doors that God is opening for us. Join us for a powerful time of prayer and praise on the first Wednesday of each month.

D IS CI PLESHI P ROCK SOLID Sundays at 8:45 AM, Room 101 If you’re interested in building a solid foundation for your faith, Rock Solid is for you! This eight week class is designed to cover the basics of Christianity, and it’s a great place to grow in your faith while making some new friendships. You can jump in the study any Sunday. For details, visit Guest Service any Sunday.

WEEKLY EVENTS SUNDAYS

<<WORSHIP SERVICES 8:30 & 11:00 AM | Sanctuary 10:00 & NOON | The Summit Nursery and Kids Church available during every Sunday morning service <<CHAMPIONS CLUB 10:00 & 11:00 AM | Champions Club For kids and adults with special needs

<<SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES 8:45, 10:00 & 11:30 AM

Visit Guest Services for a list of topics and locations

<<UPPER ROOOM YOUNG ADULTS 7:00 PM | The Summit

WEDNESDAYS

<<MIDWEEK BIBLE STUDY 7:00 PM | The Summit <<NURSERY CARE, ROYAL RANGERS, GIRLS CLUBS, MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL GROUPS 7:00 PM | Preschool Wing, Fort Faith, the Gym and Room 202

THURSDAYS

<<FRESH HOPE 7:00 PM | Room 103

A support group for those with mood disorders

FRIDAYS

<<CELEBRATE RECOVERY 7:00 PM | Room 202

Help for those struggling with hang-ups, hurts and habits

QU E S TION S ?

Have questions about these events or anything else going on at Canyon Hills? Visit Guest Services on Sundays for assistance or call the church office during Tuesday through Friday at 661-871-1150.

IN THE knOW RIVERVIEW CAMPUS KI DS VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL July 6-10, 4:30-8:00 PM If you would like to help with VBS for the children of Oildale, we would love your help! Contact: craig@canyonhills.com

O UTREAC H BAPTISMS AND BURGERS July 26 following our 11 AM service It will be a great day at Riverview as we celebrate those who have made a commitment to follow Christ and have decided to GO PUBLIC with their faith! We will have water baptisms and will barbecue burgers for everyone. Side dishes will be potluck style.

QU ES T I O N S? Have questions about events at our Riverview Campus? Contact Pastor Craig at 661-903-1895 or by email at craig@canyonhills.com

WEEKLY EVENTS SUNDAYS

<<WORSHIP SERVICES 9:00 & 11:00 AM | Sanctuary Nursery Care available during the 11AM Service

<<SUNDAY SCHOOL 10:15 AM | Fellowship Hall <<CHILDRENS CHURCH 9:00 & 11:00 AM

TUESDAYS

<<CELEBRATE RECOVERY 6:30 PM | Sanctuary

WEDNESDAYS

<<GROCERY MINISTRY In Partnership with Word Alive 12:00 PM | Courtyard

THURSDAYS

<<FREE SHOWER MINISTRY In Partnership with FLOOD 11:00 AM | Parking Lot <<MIDWEEK BIBLE STUDY 6:30 PM | Fellowship Hall <<STUDENT MINISTRIES 6:30 PM | Sanctuary <<KIDS CHURCH 6:30 PM | Courtyard

NEW LIFE CAMPUS KERN RIVER VALLEY SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICE Sundays at 10:15 AM SUMMER SUNDAY SERVICE AND BARBECUE Sundays at 4:30 PM We are excited to see what the Lord has in store as we partner with a great church, New Life, to reach the beautiful mountain community surrounding Wofford Heights. Stay tuned for opportunities to get involved!

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FOLLOW ME TO

FORT FAITH

An exciting adventure awaits your K-6th grader at Fort Faith!

We offer affordable childcare for students 2-12 years of age at Canyon Hills Preschool & Daycare and we have free programs for kids every Sunday morning and Wednesday night.

Visit canyonhills.com for details!

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