February 2022 Connections by College Church In Wheaton

FEBRUARY 2022

CONNECTIONS L O C A L & G L O BA L S TO R I E S, N E W S A N D E V E N T S O F C O L L E G E C H U RC H

“Christ, however, never let go of me and for that, I am thankful.” Read “At the Core” by Lin Fallon on page 6.

I BELIEVE

At the Core LIN FALLON | 6 GLOBAL VOICES

My Raven by the Brook PRECIOUS COLETTE KEMIGISHA | 9

LIFE LESSONS

What Is a Realistic Expectation? K ATHERINE BAYLIS | 14

TABLE OF CONTENTS PA GE 02

PAG E 12

February Highlights

More Missionary Thank Yous!

PA GE 04

PAG E 14 What s a Realistic Expectation?

Prayer Gatherings

KATHERINE BAYLIS

PA GE 05

PAG E 16

From the Editor

New Members

WIL TRIGGS

PAG E 18

PA GE 06

March for Life Up Close

At the Core

KARA BETH VANCE

LIN FALLON

PAG E 19 PA GE 09

Milestones

My Raven by the Brook PRECIOUS COLETTE KEMIGISHA

PAG E 20 At the Bookstall—New Titles

PA GE 10 The Nana Prayer Group

PAG E 21

PAT CIRRINCIONE

Looking Ahead: March Preview

332 E. Seminary, Wheaton, IL 60187 (630) 668-0878 | www.college-church.org

Connections is a monthly newsletter published for and about the people of College Church. Send news items and suggestions to: connections@college-church.org. Keep Connections in mind to promote a community event to the College Church family. Send event information by the following dates: For the March issue: February 9 | For the April issue: March 9 | For the May issue: April 9

CONTRIBUTORS KATHERINE BAYLIS

LIN FALLON

a semi-regular contributor to Connections, is a tea enthusiast who loves rare books. She works in Bible manufacturing at Tyndale and is also a grad student at Wheaton College studying church history.

has served with the STARS ministry for many years. She is currently the disabilities superintendent at the 11 a.m. hour. Lin has also served with Kids Korner. After many years working as a special education and elementary art teacher, she now is a resident artist at ClaySpace in Lisle.

KATHY BURKE

PRECIOUS COLETTE KEMIGISHA

is a retired graphic artist/ calligrapher who has used her art to serve churches and Christian organizations. She loves working with children and teaching private art classes. Kathy has been regular attender of College Church since 2010 and became a member in 2018.

is a Ugandan writer and editor living in Kampala. She is passionate about telling stories from an African point of view, and her writing aims to show Africa and its beautiful people in an authentic light.

ARI BAIR

KARA BETH VANCE

is a seventh-grader from Win4eld. She attends Classical Conversations to accompany her homeschool learning. She loves to play the harp and paint landscapes in her free time. Ari has two brothers, a sister and a dog named Lincoln.

currently serves as a mentor with the College Group discipleship team and with our Sanctity of Human Life task force. She works in Wheaton as a financial planner. During the shutdowns last year, Kara Beth and her roommates began reading the Lord of the Rings trilogy aloud and they are finally close to finishing!

PAT CIRRINCIONE is a person who loves meeting people and getting to know them. She enjoys writing, knitting, crocheting and cross stitching. Pat is an avid reader who has three to four books going at any given time. Her family is her favorite joy— spending time with her husband, Sal, and her two sons and their families, especially the five granddaughters she and Sal have been blessed with.

COVER IMAGE: Kathy Burke Fluid Art / Acrylic Pouring Technique

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES

ADULT COMMUNITIES

Everyone welcome.

All meet during the 9:30 hour.

Join us at 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Masks and social distancing required for 8 a.m. Mask-optional services at 9:30 and 11 with no social distancing needed. Livestream broadcast is at 9:30 with a rebroadcast at 11. You can watch it at college-church.org/livestream

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together.” Hebrews 10:24-25

FEBRUARY 6: Generosity Sunday—1 Corinthians 9:6-15 with Senior Pastor Josh Moody preaching

Starting February 13 in Commons Gym

NEW SERIES Prophet of Hope: Zechariah

NEW CLASS: LIFE TOGETHER COMUNITY

ALL NATIONS in C101 Jim Tebbe looking at God’s mission—Book of Acts Focus: Developing globally minded Christians through teaching, discussion and fellowship for the purpose of gospel impact. FORUM 15 in CL01 David Fetzer is leading the community in a study of Proverbs: Gaining the Wisdom Needed for Living God’s Way. GREEK CLASS in the Board Room Jon Laansma (1 John) knowledge of Greek is not required for this class.

FEBRUARY 13: Prophet of Hope: Zechariah, Zechariah 1:1-6 FEBRUARY 20: Prophet of Hope: Zechariah, Zechariah 1:7-17

Focus: People of any age and background coming together to listen faithfully to Gods Word through discussion of the original Greek wording. JOINT HEIRS in Commons Hall C104F Variety of topics—Special speakers

FEBRUARY 27: Prophet of Hope: Zechariah, Zechariah 4:1-14

LOGOS in Commons Hall C104E

SUNDAY EVENING WORSHIP SERVICES

Dan Haase and Dave Setran teaching Paul’s letter to the Philippians

Focus: Strengthening knowledge of and relationship with God through interactive teaching of the Bible. Strong emphasis on building fellowship through weekly share 5 p.m. in Commons Hall and prayer time, as well as periodic social events. FEBRUARY 6: What are the signs of a healthy church?( and Community Celebration in the Sanctuary, LIVING WORD in Commons Hall C104 A&C Pastor Josh Moody Doug Moo/Josh Maurer teaching the Book of Hebrews FEBRUARY 13: Titus 2:1-6, Pastoral Resident Josue Alvarado VERITAS in Commons Hall C104 B&D FEBRUARY 20: Titus 2:7-8, Pastor Eric Channing Neil Wright teaching the Book of Revelation FEBRUARY 27: Titus 2:9-10, Pastor Josh Maurer

Everyone welcome.

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

MISSIONS EVENTS

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY

MULTI-NATIONS FELLOWSHIP

Bible Study on Wednesdays in the Commons ( 9 : 3 0 1 a. m. or 6 : 4 5 - 8 : 1 5 p. m. ) as we study the Beatitudes together (Matthew 5:1-12).

on February 12 and March 5, 4 p.m., in the Commons.

EVANGELISM AND CULTURE IMPACT

MOM2MOM

CHRISTIANITY EXPLORED

FEBRUARY 7: Large Group Gathering at 9:30 a.m. in Commons Hall

SATURDAYS: in C005 (led by Emmanuel Tahear) at 10-11:30 a.m.

FEBRUARY 14: Gym Playdate at 9 : 3 0 a. m. in the Old Gym

SUNDAYS: in the Board Room in the Commons (led by Mike Hernberg) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY 21: President’s Day Holiday

SUNDAY EVENINGS: at 3 0 2 Wheaton ( led by Eric Schlickman) from 8 to 9 p.m.

FEBRUARY 28: Book Club at 7 p.m. in the Fireside Area (chapters 7-8 of First Ask Why by Shelly Wildman)

KEENAGERS

MONTHLY GATHERING FEBRUARY 12: Join us at 9 a.m. in Commons Hall as we seek to focus our gaze on the eternal hope we have in Christ and see how the hope of heaven can change how we live today.

WOMEN’S RETREAT February 25-27 at The Abbey Resort in Fontana, Wisconsin. Registration closes on February 7 .

MEN’S MINISTRIES

MRS. LINCOLN AND MRS. KENNEDY: A LIVING HISTORY PORTRAYAL

f Mary Todd Lincoln and Jacqueline Kennedy met, what would they discuss? Can anyone understand what it is to have lived in the White House and then, suddenly, to be living alone as the presidents widow? Historical interpreters Laura Keyes and Leslie Goddard bring Mrs. Lincoln and Mrs. Kennedy to life at an imagined meeting at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History First Ladies exhibition. Mrs. Lincoln and Mrs. Kennedy reminisce about living in the White House, negotiating the role of First Lady, and the challenges they endured after their husbands deaths. Both presenters have extensive experience portraying these historic women. ThisgatheringforKeenagerssenior ( adults)is Friday, February,81 atp.03:5 m.intheCommons.Webeginwith punchandfellowship,followedbydinneratand ,6 4nishwith this dramatic presentation. Reservations (or cancellations) must be made by Tuesday, February 15. Meeting fee is $10 per person. Kindly RSVP by calling the church at (630) 6680878 or emailing Keenagers@college-church.org.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES (KIDS’ HARBOR) SUNDAYS BIBLE STUDY Bible Study on Wednesdays at 6 : 4 5 - 8 : 1 5 p. m. in the Commons C0 0 2 AC0 0 2 B.

MEN’S GATHERING Saturday, February 12 in the Commons at 7:30 a.m. • Breakfast • Worship • Testimonials • Devotional

Nursery (0-2) at 9:30 and 11 a.m. Bible School (preschool-fifth grade) at 9:30 a.m. Wonders of Worship “WOW” (K-third grade) during second half of 11 a.m. service Children’s Church (preschool) at 11 a.m. Preschool at 5 p.m. God’s Children Sing and Children’s Choirs at 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS Wednesday club programs at 6:45 p.m.

MIDDLE SCHOOL (KMS)

STARS

SUNDAY FOUNDATIONS: Meeting at 9:30 p.m. in the KMs room

SUNDAYS

KMS WEDNESDAY: 6:45 p.m. in the KMs room

HIGH SCHOOL (HYACKS) SUNDAYS At the Crossings for Rhythms on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. FEBRUARY 6: SLAM Groups at 6:45 p.m. at homes FEBRUARY 13: Superbowl Party (check the enews for address)

INCLUSION CLASSES at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. TEEN STARS currently meeting via Zoom at 2 p.m. Hoping to return to in-person 9:30 class sometime in February. YOUNG ADULT/ADULT/MULTI-GENERATIONAL currently meeting via Zoom at 9:30 a.m. Hoping to return to inperson 9:30 & 11 a.m. classes sometime in February. STARS PARENTS PRAYER GROUP currently meeting via Zoom at 5 p.m. STARS CHOIR currently meeting via Zoom with Praise in Action on Wednesdays.

FEBRUARY 20: SLAM Groups at 6:45 p.m. at homes

DURING THE WEEK

FEBRUARY 27: SLAM Groups at 6:45 p.m. in the gym

COLLEGE GROUP

PRAISE IN ACTION & STARS CHOIR—currently meeting together via Zoom on Wednesdays, 7 - 8 p. m. Hoping to return to in-person sometime in February.

SUNDAY MORNING: 1 0 : 4 5 a. m. in the Commons

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN—Hoping to meet on Friday, February 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

HOME GROUPS: Monday- Wednesday at 7 : 0 p. m. in homes

BUDDY BREAK—Hoping to meet on Friday, February 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

PRAYER GATHERINGS ONLINE & IN PERSON

HANNAH PRAYER FELLOWSHIP will be meeting on Wednesday, February 9 , at 1 : 3 0 p. m. in C1 0 3 in the Commons. Michelle Albright will be sharing with us. Michelle is the daughter-in-law of College Church missionaries Dick and Roslyn Albright. We hope you will be able to join us as we pray for Michelle and for our other missionaries.

DORCAS PRAYER FELLOWSHIP

Call the church office or email info@college-church.org for details on these prayer meetings. Sunday Morning Prayer 8:15-8:40 a.m. in C101 Monday Morning Prayer 6:15-7:15 a.m. Board Room Wednesday Night Prayer (Zoom only) 7-8 p.m. Led by the Missions Office FEBRUARY 2: Giles and Debbie Davis FEBRUARY 9: Missionary Furlough Homes FEBRUARY 16: World Relief FEBRUARY 23: John and Leila Friday Prayer for the Persecuted Church (Board Room) 1 2 - 1 p. m. Led by Wil and Lorraine Triggs. The weekly prayer guide is also available at our website: https://bit.ly/2ZkqQLA

will hear from Anita Deyneka, especially concerning the multi-nation effort to place orphans in Christian homes, at its Wednesday, February 1 6 , meeting. This will be held in The Upper Deck of Covenant Living at Windsor Park, at 1:30 p.m. (The preferred entrance is off Rt. 64. Please wear a mask. Men and women are welcome.)

AARON-HUR PRAYER FELLOWSHIP Aaron-Hur Fellowship will meet on Thursday, February 24, at 7 p.m. at the home of Eric and Marilyn Enstrom, 1 4 6 0 Stoddard Avenue in Wheaton ( 6 3 0 ) 6 8 2 - 8 3 4 1 . Our guest will be Giles Davis, serving in Spain.

Our Prayer Pulse email goes out every Monday. You can get prayer updates via that email. Sign up by clicking “Enews signup” on our website. If you already receive other emails from College Church, click “manage my preferences” at the bottom of any email and select Prayer Pulse to add yourself.

FROM THE EDITOR

W HY L OVE WOME N WR TE RS

With February being the month of Valentines Day, should start o saying that my favorite living writer is my wife, Lorraine. Her humor is most often present in the Saturday Musings. She is not writing in this months Connections, but she helps plan and works on every issue. As look at our contributor realize that they are all women. And their articles this month are worth celebrating. Women writers write. The ones we feature have a remarkable timeliness. They have made time in their busy lives to tell us stories that point us to God’s goodness and provision. And if we didn’t have them, this month we would have no issue. Katherine Baylis responded to an invitation to join our writing team that we put out to our 20s ministry. She has written several articles and really goes the extra mile. Katherine writes with a refreshing openness, azrming God and challenging us to consider his truths from new angles.

Pat Cirrincione is back after a time away. Her perspective on Jesus comes from the perspective of mother, grandmother, Bible study member. love her humor and sense of discovery in living the Christian li Lin Fallon shares her story of faith, and it’s a beautiful journey of mercy and grace. Thanks, Lin, for looking back and pointing to the artistry of God painting his portrait on you and others as you trust and walk with him. dont know Precious Colette Kemigisha, but hope to meet her at the upcoming LittWorld conference, assuming she can jump the hurdles of schedule, visas, COV D and 4nances. Her refreshing honesty in moving from one part of the world to another and discovering a new angle on God and his people should challenge and encourage us all. How does Kara Beth Vance do so much? Her commitment to serving at church and standing up for the sanctity of human life are an inspiration. Her story of the March for Life gives us all a glimpse of the event most of us missed. Our loss. And it’s not just writers. February’s cover art comes from Kathy Burke and our redesign comes from Kathryn McBride. And the sta team that help us put together our ministry highlights all women. Okay, men. Time to step up to the plate. There are at least two excellent pieces coming our way in March from men. Writers and artists men and women are always welcome. Letswtriggs@ talk: college-church.org.

WI L T RI GGS

I BEL I EVE

At the Core LIN FALLON I believe..., what a challenge, especially volunteering at Pacific Gospel Mission since I am not a wordsmith. I do a lot of on the near west side of Chicago. And observing and thinking but to put what Ime? I cycled in and out of wanting to grow in Christ and wanting to be part of the world I was living in. Change This is what I believe... was great during those days of the 60s I believe in God, the Father Almighty, and 70s; filled with civil unrest, music, maker of heaven and earth. hormones, drugs, political lies, war, the I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, draft—the who am I questions. The list could go on. The cycles went on and our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, on, and each time it seemed like I was pulled down further. Scripture warns born of the virgin Mary, us about how Satan works in I Peter suffered under Pontius Pilate, 5:8-9: “Be sober-minded; be watchful. was crucified, dead, and buried. Your adversary the devil prowls around He descended into hell. like a roaring lion, seeking someone to The third day he rose again from devour. Resist him...” the dead. He ascended to heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Christ, however, never let go of me and for that, I am so thankful. Paul Tripp comments that “God will remain faithful even when you’re not. Because his faithfulness rests on who he is, not on what you’re doing.” Another Paul wrote to Timothy, “If we are faithless, he remains faithful—for he cannot deny himself.” (2 Timothy 2:13).

There were a few times that I began to understand for myself what it means I was brought up in a Christian home to live a life devoted to Christ. During and heard and responded to the call a break from college, I met a few of Christ at an early age. I had many students at Trinity (Deerfield, IL) that good role models of grandparents being were speaking to the issue of faith active members at Moody Memorial and what we stand for. They had just Church in Chicago, and parents who started publishing a magazine called were very active at Winnetka BiblePost-Americanand were having church Church as well as my dad regularly at their rented house. Blessed are those

that seek the kingdom of God, and was seeking, so got During this time Pat came into my life. God is the giver of involved. was seeing Christianity from a new lensgood of living gifts and that is what God has given me. A wonderful communally, speaking and writing how the gospel shapes loving God-fearing husband. our lives and worshiping in new ways. helped with the continue to grow in my faith and understanding of the layout of the quarterly magazine. gospel. The cycles are not as drastic as they were in my t was also a time of growing and learning aboutteens other and in my 2 0 s. But know that the deceiver is Christian faith traditions as we lived in community. always atwas the door, now in smaller ways, less observable particularly interested in the Mennonite tradition because ways. Do give enough grace to those around me? How do that was my maternal grandparents’ background. My use my time and talents? Am building up those around thinking was also challenged by Elizabeth OConnors me, giving encouragement or standing up for what Christ book Eighth Day of Creation: Gifts and Creativity and other stands for in this world? These are questions that ne people all from the Church of the Savior in Washington to ask daily. am always thankful that God is for me and DC—spurred me on to understand that God has called wants me as his own. us and gifted us to partake in the world. Quoting from vebeenparticularlyinRuencedwiththeworkofFrancisand her book, “As the artist discovers that there is a direct EdithSchaeerandtheirministryofL(AbriashisinRuenceon relationship between the inner and outer forms of the spectrum and the value of life. R.C. Sproul’s work on the material, so we discover that creativity in our inner lives holinessofGodhasbeeninRuentialandwasRichardFosters has a direct relationship to creativity in the world. We can writing on the spiritual disciplines of the faith. Biograp never be in the world only as its benefactors. This does not books have also inRuenced me in my spiritual formation. make for authentic relationship- . will be an instrument OnesuchbookisthelifeandworkofLilliasTrotter. of God in the continuing act of creation. “ Her life as an artist, a creator, and how she followed Christ’s When the magazine decided to go bimonthly in 1 9 7 3 , call to Northern Africa, yet she brought her art and writing knew it was time to finish my undergrad degree. n into that life of sharing the gospel continue to make an 1975 the magazine went monthly, changed its name to impact on me. Sojourners and the leadership decided to move from Currently, the work of Makoto Fujimura and Ruth Chou Chicago to Washington DC that same year. Simons are capturing my attention as think about my made my own move away, and in time, my downward own life and the inRuence the Holy Spirit has in developing cycle of a messed up (Christian) life took hold of me. the giftsGodhasgivenme. Yet Christ did not leave me. left him. learned his arms The hymn, How Great Thou Art( expresses this well. When are always open for me to come to him, and learned inawesomewonderconsideralltheworldsthyhandshave King David s prayer of confession. For acknowledge my transgressions; and my sin is ever before me. made-Thypowerthroughouttheuniversedisplayed.( Against thee, thee only, have sinned, and done this So, what do believe? evil in thy sight; that thou mightest be justified when believe thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. ( ( Psalm in one God, the Father almighty, 51:3-4, KJV) maker of heaven and earth, Godledmetoagroupofbelievers,and beganworshiping of all things visible and invisible. with them. On retreat, was impressed with the idea of And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the garden and its analogy of the Christian life. Just as the only Son of God, the garden needs the sun, the rain, and the earth to be begotten from the Father before all ages, nourished and weeded, as a Christian need the Son of God from God, God to guide me, the weeds to be pulled through Bible Light from Light, study and community and the rain of the Holy Spirit to true God from true God, wash over me. was wanting to leave my messed- up life begotten, not made; behind and wanted to be baptized. Again, from Psalm 51, of the same essence as the Father. verses 7 , 1 0 and 1 2 : Purge me with hyssop, and shall be Through clean; wash me, and shall be whiter than snow. Create in him all things were made. For us and for our salvation me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within he came down from heaven; me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation; and uphold he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, me with a willing spirit. ( and was made human. (continued on next page)

AT THE CORE: Lin Fallon (continued from page 7) He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; he suffered and was buried. The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end. And believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. He spoke through the prophets. believe in one holy Christian church. affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT L N FALLON will be an instrument of God in the continuing act of creation. ( These words, written by Elizabeth O Connor, reflect Lin’s heart as an artist. Along with serving in the STARS ministry at College Church, Lin is a resident artist at Clay Space Pottery in Lisle. She draws inspiration for her pottery from the Master Potter. Here are a few of her pieces.

look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and to life in the world to come. Amen. This is the core of what believe.

m thankful that these creeds were written. am thankfu for music written by Fannie Crosby and contemporary singer-songwriters Steve Bell, Bob Bennet, Carolyn Arends and Mike Janzen. For poets like Malcolm Guite and Lucy Shaw. am thankful that can read all the genres of Scripture. Thankful for writers like Paul Tripp, Francis Schaeffer, R.C. Sproul, Charles Spurgeon, C.S. Lewis, George MacDonald. am thankful they put so many words together that speak to my heart. A heart that has been softened by the Holy Spirit and one that is loved by my eternal Father. A heart that sings: What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

GL OBAL V OI C ES

My Raven by the Brook PRECIOUS COLETTE KEMIGISHA A note from College Church missionary John Maust. Can you describe a time when a Christian friend gave you hope when you most needed it? That was the prompt for a writing contest organized by Media Associates International (MAI) in anticipation of its April LittWorld 2022 conference in Hungary, for which College Church provided generous scholarship support through its Thanksgiving offering. Precious Colette Kemigisha of Uganda won first prize with her article, “My Raven by the Book,” which tells the story of an unexpected friendship that warmed her heart in frigid Scotland as a lonely international student. Notified of her award, Precious said, “I can think of no better way to end the year than knowing that my story touched the hearts of the judges and will also bring hope to many of your readers who will get to read it!”

up to anyone but him because wasn t sure people would understand. One Sunday, having arrived early to make sure grabbed my usual seat on the mezzanine level of the church, right next to the wall, saw a young lady walk down the row and sit a chair away from me. turned to the wall and rolled my eyes in irritation, wondering why she had decided to come as close to me as possible when there were tons of other empty seats to choose from.

Then, to my utter dismay, she turned to me with a huge smile and started chatting! Oh, God! Couldnt she see that just wantedtobeleftalone?hadmasteredtheartofthearti4cia smilefrommyjob,souseditasplottedmyescape.

However, my interest soon grew into curiosity as Natasha told me she had moved from Belarus and had no family or As Colette’s story reminds us, that person sitting beside you in friends in Edinburgh so the church was her main solace. church just might need a “raven by the brook.” You could be saw that her smile reached her eyes, and she was that “raven,” in God’s grace. sincerely interested in what had to say. So, when she asked me if wanted to come to her place for lunch after the service, to my surprise said, Yes! ( The crunch of the snow beneath my feet as walked the didnt know how starved was for true few blocks to my new friend Natasha’s house on that friendship but, of course, my good December evening was the furthest thing from what was Father knew and as we ate her used to. traditional beetroot soup that Under the brilliant sunshine of Kampala, the dust would afternoon, found myself seep into all the pores of my skin and hair with silent opening up like a flower in bloom precision. was used to that, the brown dirt and intense under the rays of the summer sun. heat, so the cold in Edinburgh was still a shock even As had walked to Natashas that December day, af ter a year of living there as pursued my master s smiled. felt a tingle of joy as anticipated the hot meal degree in Literature. that shed prepared for us. was grateful that hadnt run The past few months had passed by in a blur of writing away to my cave of solitude that fateful Sunday when the my dissertation and working at the local theatre in the tall, pretty lady came to sit near me! evenings and weekends to make ends meet. While liked Her friendship was like an oasis in the desert of my my course and the unexpected perk of getting to enjoy loneliness. looked up at the dusk sky and thanked God plays for free during my shifts, my homesickness was like for sending me my very own raven to feed my aching heart a choking grip on my heart that sucked out all the joy and just like He had sent ravens to feed Elijah as he hid in the turned each day grey. cave by the brook. He knew that needed hope and had n church on Sundays, tears streaked my cheeks sent as me a friend to offer hot meals, companionship and, turned towards the wall and worshiped the only friend mainly, laughter, just when needed it most! quickened had, my father God. The sadness made it hard to open my pace. Life was meaningful and good once again!

FACE T O FA CE

The Nana Prayer Group Pat Cirrincione

So, whats all the hype about prayer groups? had never heard of them before came to College Church. didnt know what they were about and was quite content in not being part of one. How little knew, and how much was about to discover. More than ten years ago was invited to a knitting group where was introduced to a lovely group of women who were Bible study leaders, and loved hearing them talk of their different prayer groups and fellowships. magine that, thought, groups that get together and read the Bible, study a portion of Scripture, and then prayed for one another. The idea was completely foreign to me yet held a certain intrigue. was pleasantly surprised when one of the women asked if would be interested in joining a Nana Prayer Group, she was thinking about putting together. A group where a small number of women would pray for their children and grandchildren. said yes, without my usual comment of can get back to you on that?( had learned over the years to talk to God and my husband first before joining anything, as it always felt like the right thing to do, but this time jumped in without doing either and have been blessed in so many ways. grew up thinking knew what praying was all about, and it involved praying to other people, not God. never prayed to him, only to these intercessory people to whom had been taught to pray. t worked, or so thought. also grew up lighting candles and sending up a quick prayer to whoever thought might be listening to me in the moment, thinking that they would get word to God for me. Since saw

many of my prayers answered figured something was Through this wonderful prayer group, we have been working right between me and heaven. able to grab a hold of Gods peace. We have come to learn that God loves us enough to answer many of our How young and naïve was. t wasnt until came to prayer requests, although not always exactly for what we College Church that began to realize that prayer was my asked, but usually better than we could have thought of direct link to God. That could go straight to our Lord and ourselves. Savior with every thought, with every concern, with every hope, and anything else that could think about! Where t was we may have become weary or discouraged in beyond exciting, it was exhilarating, and so amazing that praying on our own, we now have a warrior team( that could speak directly to God. t was the icing on the prays cake together, and because we are not alone in our in God’s gift of bringing me to him and teaching me that prayers, we are boosted up to keep praying without he was my Lord and Savior; that he was the one who sent ceasing. We know that we can come alongside one his only begotten Son to die on the cross for my sins so another in prayer, lifting our words to our Father, who art that would have eternal life! What gifts! Eternal in heaven. life and praying! Who would have thought? t was the beginning of something precious and amazing.

“ Th ro u gh a ll o u r yea rs o f p ra yin g, w e have So, it began. At our first meeting, where we met one another, we decided to meet every other Friday. t lea rn ed th a t Go d d o es n o t gro w tire d or was at these prayer gatherings that we learned to use w ea ry h ea rin g fro m u s . ” prayer as our first line of defense in lifting our children, grandchildren, and each other to the Lord.

So, what have discovered about prayer groups? That we have a Father in heaven who walks beside our children, grandchildren, our spouses and each other. That we have not launched our family into the world alone and unprotected, and that God will never leave us or forsake O u r p r a y e r s h a v e b e e n m a n y a n d v a r i e d . W e p r athem. y f o r (Deuteronomy 31:8) our adult children living with girlfriends or boyfriends; for crippling addictions; for jobs; for children coming As John Daly, president of Focus on the Family, said back back home to live (including their dirty laundry). in 2 0 1 7 : Prayer is our first line of defense. Our role in lives may be different once they’re living on W e p r a y f o r i n f e r t i l i t y ; e m o t i o n a l a n d m e n tour a lchildren’s health issues; money troubles; spiritual uncertainty. Does their own, but there is great assurance in the knowledge that our children have a Father in heaven who walks this sound familiar? beside them through all of lifes ups and downs. Our work Through all our years of praying, we have learned that God isn’t done when our children leave home, and we do some does not grow tired or weary hearing from us. Another of our best parenting on our knees. ( thing we discovered is that “children improve your prayer life.(Praying ( the Scriptures for Your Adult Children by Jodie He further stated: “Prayer is one of the most important parenting assignments weve been given. t is an eternal Berndt) We have discovered through Gods grace that it is investment in our children’s hearts and souls, and we must never too late to pray for anything or anyone. We have never underestimate its(Praying impact. the ( Scriptures for been blessed with praying for God’s best for our children Your Adult Children by Jodie Berndt) and each other. As Jodie Berndt wrote in her book, Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children, that “all of us were praying about something (or a bunch of things) in our children’s lives. All of us were counting on Gods mercy and His love. (

havealsolearnedthatalthoughtherearemanyattrib that we, as parents, may desire for our children, such 1 . We are not alone, and there is no perfect family. as truthfulness, trustworthiness, patience, obedience, helpfulness, generosity, self-control or faithfulness, that 2 . ts not too late to pray the Scriptures for your children. it is only with God’s guidance and our daily prayers for 3. You can have peace even in life’s hardest and merriest our children that God will give them what they need—so moments. remember, as you pray, pray specifically, regularly and (All the above also from Jodie Berndt’s Praying the Scriptures expectantly. And maybe even begin a Nana Prayer Group of your own. for Your Adult Children.) Being in the Nana Prayer Group has also taught me that:

More Missionary Thank Yous! F ROM OUR P A RT N E RS A N D M I S S I O NAR I E S Thank you so much for the financial gift this Christmas! t is much appreciated! Blessings, Karen Bradley

Dear Friends, Thank you for your very generous Christmas gift—and your countless kindnesses and generosities throughout this past year. And all your prayers, support over many years.

have family coming from California, Massachusetts and France for Christmas who will be celebrating with my wanted to be sure to write and say a big THANK YOU to Wheaton family and me. will gratefully be using your gift College Church for its generous Christmas gift this year! for these festivities. know an email isnt the ideal way to show thanks, but our Anita Deyneka family is in the midst of massive transition, and m worried that ll forget if dont write to you now. This church has been such a generous, kind and loving support to our Dear Friends of College Church— family and ministry, and we are deeply grateful for you! Were absolutely delighted to have received your lovi Cory and Kristiana Miller Christmas gift. We feel totally spoiled. Well be in Florid with my (Jane’s) cousins for Christmas, so we have yet to see what goodies we’ll purchase while away. Elsa and send our deepest thanks for your very generous Christmas gift! What a special treat and encouragement. We love you! We thank God for the many ways you show your love and Jane and Jeff Pelz support for us in ministry together to share Jesus around the world! John and Elsa Maust

Beloved,

Thank you very much to the Congregation for your generous giving to bless us who have represented you while serving Yeshua overseas for a lifetime and now grounded because of our physical limitations..............

Your Christmas check knocked us off our feet in astonished Blessings in you ... with our love, gratitude. ndeed, your love for Jesus and us seems Roger & Naomi Walkwitz boundless, a glorious example of His for us each and all! (Psalm 57:9-11)

Dear CC W Family, We splurged with a long visit to our FL daughter, including our respective anniversaries (separated by one day); and Hope this finds all of you doing well and filled with the hope we put aside for another visit to a TX-based daughter. of Christ this advent season. We wanted to take a moment Thank you! Jenny and Scott Hawkins

Dear College Church and Board of Missions,

and thank you so much for your very generous Christmas gift. We feel overwhelmed and deeply encouraged by your showing of support for our family and for the ministry here. Thank you, thank you, thank you. May the LORD richly bless you for such generous giving.

Praying for you all as we send this. May this year be an We want to thank you for your very generous Christmas especially worshipful advent season and Christmas gift that we recently received from the College Church celebration. family. Your faithfulness in giving and support for missions around the globe continues to be a great encouragement Together in Him, to us, and we praise the Lord for the College Church family. Jeff and Tamara Hershberger Chuck and Anita Howard

We received the check. Thanks so much! We re very grateful for the generosity of College Church! Merry Christmas, Rick and Janice McKinley

Dear College Church missions and Church Family Thank you for your faithfulness, generosity, love, prayer and partnership with us over the years. Thank you for your generous Christmas gift. We used it to travel to Maryland for an early Christmas gathering with all our children. We are so thankful for you to the Lord. the media ministry of College Church, features thank my God every time remember you. n all my the Bible teaching of Pastor Josh, both online prayers for all of you, always pray with joy because of and on the radio. This exciting ministry with your partnership in the gospel from the first day until a global reach continues to grow in impact. now, being confident of this, that he who began a good Here in the US, the program is heard on the work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of radio in about 70 locations. Larger markets Christ Jesus. ( include Chicago, Des Moines, Minneapolis/St. In Christ, Paul, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Madison. n Emmanuel & Adugna Tahear addition, the broadcast is heard on stations

God Centered Life

out of Champaign/Urbana and Springfield, which cover much of central llinois. All told, the weekly audience is approximately 50,000. Globally, the ministry also has a mission impact. The teaching is heard online through the OnePlace and TWR3 6 0 platforms, which have extensive listenership outside North America. The website statistics gives testimony to the worldwide impact of God Centered Life. Nearly half (47%) of the site’s 77,000 visitors are from outside the US, representing 1 9 8 separate nations. magine! More than 35,000 people have been touched with some form of gospel content through this outreach of our church, either an online audio message, or a spiritually encouraging

Evening Mist Ari Bair

article, or a devotional reading. www.godcenteredlife.org

L I FE L ESSON S

What Is a Realistic Expectation? Katherine Baylis

If you set your reading goal for the new year at more than 30 books, I don’t believe you. I have friends who’ve set their 20 Reading Challenge Goal on Goodreads at 50, 70 or 10 books. In the case of one friend who set the goal at 120, I texted to inquire how, indeed, my friend intended to complete it. In some (admittedly niche) circles, it’s a competition to see who will set their goals the highest. But when November comes, there’s always a rush of people who readjust their goal down 20 or 30 books to something more realistic so they can actually meet their goals before the year closes.

a competitive edge, it’ s a challenge

I’ v e always thought the phrase “setting realistic expectations” sounded like a bit of a threat. To someone who has

which we did not achieve solely on our

but, alas, I am not such a person. In the business world, it tends to be a passive- a ggressive way of saying “don’ t bite off more than you can chew” but in general, it’ s not altogether a bad thing. Attainable goals, particularly smaller ones that lead to a larger goal, have long been hailed as the key to success. But when is it appropriate to set goals that are a little out of reach? While there may be some things that are well and truly out of reach— l ike, for example, me j o ining a professional women’ s basketball team— t he goals we grow the most from are those own, but rather by leaning on God’ s strength and trusting his provision.

One such goal from the last year has been praying about going to be the next best step towards God’s plan for me, whether should go to grad school or not. t was not yetthe was paralyzed with fear. first time had considered grad school. At the end of my ts times like these when find myself doubting Gods first semester senior year, had offers of admission to two provision that think of a book read in high school, master’s programs in medieval literature, both based in God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew. t tells the story of a Scotland. referred to it as my pipedream, my reckless Dutch missionary who smuggles Bibles into various closed shot at an adventure. deferred both because of COV D countries. There’s one scene that’s stuck with me over and started working a full-time job instead, figuring it the years. t takes place when the narrator, Andrew, is in would give me time to think about what wanted. When seminary on an outreach trip where he and his teammates finally decided to officially decline the offers a year later are forced to trust God’s provision financially. They are at in early 2021, it began a series of questions centered a gathering at an apartment when they realize they have around one thought: f not this, then what? no cake for tea (which in Scotland, where he was, was apparently unacceptable if one were hosting tea). “That night, as we rolled up in our blankets on the floor of the “I le t m y re s o l v e w a ne w hen I s a w t he s to rmy hall, we played guessing games: How was God going to give us that cake? Among the five of us, we guessed everything wa t e rs a n d l et t he r o a r o f t he w i nds t hrea ten imaginable or so we thought. ( recall reading that as m y f o cus o n G o d’ s v o i ce. ” a teenager and being amazed that they not only trusted God to provide the cake but expected it. They weren’t speculating if God would provide, but merely how. find spent the next few months researching programs during it difficult to emulate such faith in normal circumstances; my lunch breaks. scrolled through page after page of it’s a grating effort in the midst of stressful ones. coursework on a dozen di erent types of degrees and came up empty. But, to my delight (and slight surprise), Suddenly it was the last week before had to make a quite enjoyed my job. So, moved on from the idea. decision. whined at God, begging for the peace of a clear cannot recall how the subject came up again perhaps it decision—not at all the posture Brother Andrew took was my roommate or the Greek class at College Church or when in similar circumstances. Just before lunch, notice my mother but found my mind wandering towards grad a new email from the head of my program. He was writing schooloncemore.missedbeingastudent.Morethanthat, to inform me that d been selected for a scholarship tha felt that had been out of school long enough to really behelp cover enough of my first semester’s tuition that would sure that wanted to be a student again, not just because it would enable me to start in January 2 0 2 . immediately didnt know what else to do, but because felt called toto tear up and praised God for putting up with my started do it. thought about the books that moved me in college childish distrust all morning. Hitting accept( on my offe and found a common thread of church history. A few google of admission was one of the most affirming decisions ve searches and a very encouraging phone call with the head of made in a long time. the department later and my mind was made up: wanted wish could say every step of this process was guided to study church history at Wheaton College. by thoughtful prayer and complete faith. t did include a hadnoideawhat wasdoingandquestionedthedecision great deal of both, but like the disciples in Mark 4 when over and over in the months that followed. did my best Jesus calmed the storm, let my resolve wane when saw to give up as much of it to God as could but sometimes the stormy waters and let the roar of the winds threaten my anxiety got the better of me and d spiral. However, my focus on Gods voice. Still, consider it a good example met the real challenge when got my acceptance letter. of God working through me in a decision-making process had been bracing myself for the impact since submitted because have the stark contrast of my first attempt the application. How in the world would pay for tuition? applying to grad school: a messy, unfocused, unguided t made me so sick to think about it that delayed telling scramble that in the end left me feeling very foolish for my friends what should have been exciting news, and even trying. By contrast, this time around felt Gods when they wanted to celebrate with me, just couldnt. guidance at every step; even when was terrified and None of it felt financially realistic. Entering mid-year was doubtful and questioned everything, knew he was hard enough, but with so little turnaround walking had zeroright along with me. strive to one day have the guarantees of getting any funding to help. prayed for faith in God’s provision that Brother Andrew had, but for a clear decision. t had been a goal of mine for several now, take each lesson learned and try to build on it months to get to this point, to start what thought was creating new expectations as go.

NE W M E M BER S

Welcome! JOANNAH ACABAL FAMILY: Married to Gerald and has two adult children. She was born in the Philippines and came to the States in 1 9 3 . 9 TO 5: Works as an operating room nurse. PASTTIMES: Enjoys gardening and singing

MICAH AVILES PLACES LIVED: Micah is the oldest of six kids born to missionaries in Chad, Africa. She has spent time in Canada and France. 9 TO 5: Teaches first grade at Schaumburg Christian School PASTTIMES: Enjoys time with friends, hanging out outdoors, hiking, campingandanythingwithwater. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: 2 0 s small group, nursery

SCOTT & GRETA BAILEY

JONATHAN & BECCA DEMOSS FAMILY: They have been married since 2017 and have three young children, including a newborn born in December 9 TO 5: Jonathanisa4nancial advisor. Becca is a pediatric speech language pathologist, and assistant volleyballcoachatWheatonCollege PASTTIMES: Jonathan enjoys time with family, coaching and watching sports and playing guitar. Becca likes to run, eat, spend time with other moms and children, coach and watch sports, and learn new cooking skills. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Womens Bible Study, Mom2 Mom, Apples of Gold

CLIFF DYHOUSE PLACES LIVED: Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Cliff is recently widowed and just relocated here from Florida. He has two adult children. 9 TO 5: Retired statistics and economics professor PASTTIMES: Enjoys cycling and playing Bridge CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Bibles study and GriefShare

FAMILY: Married in 2009, they have twin girls, age 11, another daughter, age eight and a baby boy 9 TO 5: Scott works for the government. Greta stays at home with the kids and works part time in finance and communications for The Friendship Center, a food pantry in Lincoln Square in the city, as well as a small business, Gretas Caramel. PASTTIMES: Scott likes to coach, play golf and exercise. When not busy with family, Greta spends time gardening and raising monarch butterflies in the summer. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Bible study, childrens ministries

SUSAN BRUSH

FAMILY: Oneof10childrenand grew up in Connecticut. Moved to WheatontoattendWheatonCollege. 9 TO 5: Ezra is a recent Wheaton College graduate and works in the financial services industry. PASTTIMES: Enjoys any and all sports, enjoys reading and getting to know new people. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Serving in HYACKs

FAMILY: Married to Jim for 30 years; they have two adult children. 9 TO 5: Worked in food service for years after chef school, primarily in baking and pastry work. She has also worked with individuals with special needs, teaching those skills. She currently works in a support role in a public high school PASTTIMES: Enjoys working out and being outside; also baking and cooking. She loves animals and volunteers at Danada Equestrian Center with the horses there. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Womens Bible Study

EZRA LAGAN

ZHAOXIA (DEMY) LIU FAMILY: Zhaoxia, also known as Demy, is married to Zijia Wang and they have a teenage daughter. She was raised in China. 9 TO 5: She is a student at Wheaton College and worked in biology research for 1 0 years prior. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Women s Bible Study

PAUL & VALERIE MCCALLUM PLACES LIVED: Married since 1974 and they have two adult children and five grandchildren. 9 TO 5: Paul retired as project manager and assistant director of Wheaton Colleges physical plant. Valerie recently retired from providing licensed childcare in her home for 4 2 years! PASTTIMES: Paul enjoys fishing, gardening and all forms of construction. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Keenagers

VERA PATRICK

BONNIE SPIVEY FAMILY: She grew up south of Houston, Texas and is the youngest of six children. Her father was a prisoner of war in WW and was in the 101st Airborne Division Screaming Eagles( who jumped in Normandy on D Day. 9 TO 5: Bonnie works at U.S. Foods as a corporate buyer. After college she joined the Pappas Restaurants company and became a manager and trainer. She has traveled to several states to open restaurants. PASTTIMES: Enjoys gardening, cooking and entertaining and spending time with friends and family. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Small group

PLACES LIVED: She was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Ukrainian parents. They moved to Chicago when she was five years old. FAMILY: Vera is widowed and has two adult children. 9 TO 5: She works as a licensed social worker for a hospice agency. PASTTIMES: She volunteers at World Relief, walks her dogs three miles a day, travels to Arizona and Virginia to see her children and enjoys reading. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Womens Bible Study

MARK & JULIE SMITH

FAMILY: Married since 1979 and have three adult children. Mark grew up and met Julie in Florida. 9 TO 5: Mark is a retired pilot. Julie worked in a variety of ways at The Compass Church for 1 2 years. PASTTIMES: Mark enjoys cycling, sailing, listening to music and cooking. Julie enjoys time with family, reading, creative writing and cooking.

MORGAN SOBEK

BIANCA FLORES STAM FAMILY: Bianca is a missionary kid from the Middle East. She was adopted five years ago from foster care. “The Lord redeemed my life in the process, ( says Bianca. 9 TO 5: Bianca is a Wheaton College student studying nursing CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Children’s ministriesandsmallgroup

TIM & LYNNEA URBANOWICZ

FAMILY: Tim grew up in Peeksill, New York, with two sisters. He and Lynnea have been married for 11 years, they have two boys and two girls. Baxter Helm and Joanna Panner are Lynneas cousins. 9 TO 5: Tim is an asset management professional. Lynnea has worked as an elementary school teacher. PASTTIMES: Tim enjoys golfing, smoking meat and cooking. Lynnea enjoys baking, cooking, running, reading and spending time with friends and family. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: HYACKS small group leader

FAMILY: Morgan grew up in Bozeman, Montana. 9 TO 5: Morgan is working on her master’s degree in special education, after completing her undergrad in percussion pedagogy at Wheaton College. She is also the head instructor for Beethoven’s Buddies Chimes class, which is a premier ensemble and music program for students with disabilities at the Community School of the Arts. She teaches private piano and percussion lessons and works at Common Good in Glen Ellyn. PASTTIMES: Enjoys good coffee, visiting her boyfriend, reading, exploring Chicago, playing music and spending time with friends and family. CHURCH INVOLVEMENT: Serving with STARS music

COMMUNION AT COLLEGE CHURCH FEBRUARY 6

L OCA L L Y S OUR CED

March for Life Up Close Kara Beth Vance

On Saturday, January 8 , about 6 0 people from College remember how overwhelming it was the first time that Church participated in the March for Life held in went to March for Life in Washington D. C. There were Chicago. We gathered at Federal Plaza with thousands probably to100,000 there to celebrate life and oppose hear pro-life speakers from various backgrounds. After abortion. had never been with so many people who the rally, we walked our route by Daley Plaza, Millennium not only knew the value of each life but wanted to do Park, and the Art nstitute on Michigan Ave. and passed something (even if it was a small something) and be a by people in cars and on sidewalks who saw our message witness of this to the watching world. and experienced the positive tone of the march. Several friends have asked me over the years why we T h ere is a temp ta tio n in th e ch u rch to wi thdr aw participateinMarchforLife.Therearelotsofreasons. Some fro m co n vers a tio n s ta kin g p la ce in the people come because of the media attention this event attracts, the leaders in various spheres of life that attend or p u b lic s q u a re, b u t w h a t w e b elieve d o e s have speak at the march, or the notion that events like this are imp lica tio n s every d a y in p u b lic life. part of a larger strategy to protect the unborn. The reason that resonates with me was articulated by one attendee from College Church who wrote after the march that our participation “has a price: a Saturday afternoon, cold, counter-protest tension, but it should cost us something. (

There is a temptation in the church to withdraw from conversations taking place in the public square, but what we believe does have implications every day in public life. The truth is that all human beings are valuable because they are made in the image of God, so intentionally taking the life of The March for Life is one opportunity to put feet to our another human being is an attack on God’s image bearer. beliefs, and it does cost us something—time, saying no Abortion takes human life and is legal in the United States. to plans, standing in the cold. We are always encouraged, This is not the way it should be. And we, as Christians, ought however, by the thousands of people who also participate be shining and make the same sacrifices to be there that daytowith us. light on these conversations, and standing for

MI L ES T ON ES this vulnerable group in the public square as well as in our privatelivesandspheresofinRuence.

An Olympiad in Our Midst

Ethan Cepuran, the youngest son of Carl and Marilyn Cepuran, was the first to be named to March for Life is an opportunity for us to do this together the U. S. Long Track speedskating Olympic Team. as a church—take a public stand to witness to this truth— Ethan won the Men’s 5K in a time of 6:15:54, and to consider how to be winsome witnesses to this truth a mere . 1 off the Petit National ce Center track in our ordinary lives throughout the year. record. Ethan will also be competing in the Men’s Team Pursuit while in Beijing He will be competing will admit that on the morning of January 8 , reluctantly in the 5K on February 5 and the Men’s Team got ready to participate in the march. The forecast Pursuit on February 13 and 15. promised freezing rain in the afternoon. t had been an exhausting week, and it was hard to get motivated for a BIRTHS day out in the cold. But the Lord reminded me that the truth that compels me to advocate for the value of every Samuel Robert was born to Ben and Charis Ellis human life doesnt change based on whether m having a on December 9. Samuel joins his big sister, Nora. good or a bad day or have high or low energy. There are His maternal grandparents are Robert and Janet Bastian. human lives on the line. We have already lost more than 60,000,000 lives to abortion in the U.S. since 1973.

Leah Alexandra was born to Jonathan and Becca DeMoss on December 5, 2021. Leah joins her big long for the day when abortion will be both illegal in this sister, Joanna, and her big brother, Luke. nation and unthinkable in our culture. Until that day, may the Lord strengthen the church to faithfully stand for what DEATHS is good and right and true in public and in private, that God would be glorified, and people would be rescued. Pray for Bruce (Allison) Bonga and family as they

grieve the loss of Bruce’s father, Dale, who passed away on January 2 0 in Wheaton.

Join the Sanctity of Human Life Task Force in prayer at Pray for Nancy (Jeff) Swider-Peltz Sr. and family Planned Parenthood for pregnant clients to feel God’s as they grieve the loss of Nancy’s brother, John care and desire to give life to their unborn babies.Swider, We who passed away on January 13 in Geneva. pray in partnership with 4 0 Days for Lifes year- round Pray for Andee (Jon) Lindus and family as they peaceful prayer vigil for the vulnerable, abortion industry grieve the loss of Andee’s brother, Chris Wheeler, workers, and our culture. who passed away on January 6. Saturday, February 19, 1-2 p.m.

Pray for Judy Covarrubias and family as they grieve the loss of Judy’s husband, Victor, who Park at Mariano’s or behind AutoZone and meet on passed away on January 6. Waterleaf pregnancy resource centers property across Pray for Sharen (Daniel) Sommerville, Scott (Evie) from Planned Parenthood Auroras driveway. Sommerville and family as they grieve the loss of Sign up at www.college-church.org/impact/sohl to receive Sharen’s father and Scott’s grandfather, Raymond Nerhus, who passed away on December 21 at the SOHL monthly e-newsletter to receive events schedule and age of 101 in Naperville. life-related news. Pray for Linda (Steve) Hawkins and family as they grieve the loss of Linda’s mother, Marilyn Tank, who passed away on December 16.

AT T HE BOOKST AL L

New Titles Check out these new titles and more at the bookstall on Sunday mornings.

The Big Wide Welcome

Forgiven

By Trillia Newbell

By Tim Chester

A True Story About Jesus, James, and a Church That Learned to Love All Sorts of People

Resurrection Meditations from the Book of Hebrews

Journeys with Jesus By David Gooding True Stories of Changed Destinies in John’s Gospel

Bitesize Biographies Set: 6 Pack By Tim Chester The lives of Aidan of Lindisfarne, John Wycliffe, Lady Jane Grey, Mary Jones, Thomas Cranmer, William Tyndale

The Bible Handbook By The Daily Grace Co.

The Life I Now Live By Joelle Kenny A True Story of Adventure and Faith in Cambodia

Read Through the Bible in 2022 Pastor Josh Moody has daily devotionals that go with a Bible reading plan. You can read through the Bible in a year and get a devotional word from Pastor Moody throughout the year. Visit our website at www.college-church.org/ daily-scripture Read through the Bible this year with a tailored reading plan.

LOOKING AHEAD COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS 2022 5 p.m. in the Sanctuary with community time in Commons Hall to follow. MARCH 6: How can we foster and further real community? APRIL 3: How can we do evangelism today? MAY 8: How can we maximize our service for the lord?

VISITORS LUNCH Are you new to College Church? f so, youre invited to our MEN’S GATHERING Visitors Lunch on Sunday, SATURDAY, MARCH 12 & SATURDAY, APRIL 9 March 20, at noon in the lobby in the Commons at 7:30 a.m. outside the • Breakfast Sanctuary. Come and meet pastors and sta , learn• Worship about College Church and 4nd out how • Testimonials • Devotional you can get involved. Lunch is on us!

STUDENT RETREAT WEEKEND: MARCH 11-13 HYACKs (High School) Dickson Valley in Newark, L Cost is $175

KMS (Middle School) Phantom Ranch in Mukwonago, W Cost is $150

WE NEED YOU Empty nester? Newly retired? A little more Rexible time on your hands? We need you! The Helping Hands committee gets frequent requests for rides—primarily to doctor’s appointments or for medical tests. Unfortunately, our pool of approved drivers is small, and we would like to build it up. f you would like to serve this way, its a simple process—complete a quick form which allows us to pull the necessary reports. After you’re approved, you’ll get occasional emails when there is a need, and you can respond as you’re able. Email Christy at cchiodras@collegechurch.org to help.

February 2022 Connections

Articles inside

New Titles at the Bookstall

Milestones

March for Life Up Close

New Members: WELCOME!

What Is a Realistic Expectation?

More Missionary Thank Yous!

The Nana Prayer Group

My Raven by the Brook

I Believer: At the Core

From the Editor

February Highlights

Contributors