“I will exalt you, my God and King, and praise your name forever and ever.” Psalm 145:1 NLT
A Message From Our Senior Pastor On May 6, Eastern Star Church broke ground on our very first home for The ROCK Initiative, located at 3006 N. Priscilla Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46218! Many people from the congregation and our surrounding neighbors came out to celebrate this joyous occasion. I thank God, the church council, church staff, members, and the generous Christians who made an equal sacrifice of their time, treasure, energy, and prayers to the Kingdom of God to make this possible. I can’t wait for the congregation and the community to see what precious stones the Lord uncovers through The ROCK Initiative (Malachi 3:17).
June 2017
Featured Stories: Membership Expectations
The ROCK Initiative consists of the following goals: affordable housing options, financial security, educational opportunities, and a general sense of community. Visit our website to view more about the ROCK Initiative by clicking on THE ROCK INITIATIVE tab on the home page. Lady Sharon and I would like to thank the congregation for celebrating my birthday and our 31st wedding anniversary! We appreciate the cards, letters, and your donations to Arlington Woods School 99 technology campaign. Arlington Woods is in need of technology equipment such as smart boards, iPad mini carts, laptop carts, software, programming, etc. to help the students succeed in school and advance to the next level in their education.
Summer Activities on a Budget
Due to the generosity of the congregation, we have raised more than $50,000 of our $200,000 goal – Lady Sharon and I appreciate your support! If you can, please continue to give to the technology campaign by using the ‘IPS99’ code. Let’s make sure that School 99 has the same resources as other schools in the state of Indiana. I look forward to seeing how God will move with the students, teachers, and families. Father’s Day is June 18! Show your father or a father figure how much you love you them on this special day. Psalm 103:13, As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him (NIV). Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers, dads, and father figures!
Volunteer Spotlights
Blessings,
Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. Senior Pastor
and more...
Revive Your Soul with Casual Summer Reading Written by Stacey Moore Longer and warmer days are quickly ushering us into summer. The summer is a great time to relax with a good book to reconnect with God. Reading expands our mind and ignites the imagination. You can refresh your book collection at the Eastern Star Church Online Bookstore. Veronica Kelly, Membership & Data Specialist at Eastern Star Church, shared her list of suggested books for summer reading: Children: The Christian Girl’s Guide to Money by Rebecca Park Totilo God Made You Special –VeggieTales by Greg Fritz Teens: 199 Favorite Bible Verses for Teens by Christian Arts Gifts Armed and Dangerous by Ken Abraham Women: God is Able by Priscilla Shirer I Am: Encounter the One Who Gives You Purpose and Meaning in a Crazy World by Matt Fry Dialogue with my Daughters by Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. Dialogue with Single Parents by Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr.
To also aid in making your summer reading selections easy, the ESC Online Bookstore offers many categories with recommendations. Sections include: • ESC Recommends • ESC Program Resources • Finance • Single • Women • Men • Upcoming Holiday (it’s never too late to shop for the upcoming holidays) Once you have finished reading that inspiring book, don’t just put it on a shelf—share it with a friend or donate it to a local shelter. Reading is refreshing to the soul! Visit our website by clicking on the RESOURCES tab then ONLINE BOOKSTORE to view and purchase your summertime reading pleasure!
Men: The Jesus Answer Book by John MacArthur Kingdom Man Devotional by Tony Evans Dialogue with my Son by Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr.
Get Ready for Vacation Bible School Written by Nicole Ashburn
Why is Vacation Bible School important? Vacation Bible School (VBS) is important because it gives believers the opportunity to get to know Christ and study the Word in depth, in a more intimate setting. Believers can ask questions which create dialogue for attendees to get involved. Staff, volunteers, and participants also discuss Eastern Star Church’s mission of evangelism and discipleship (Matthew 28:19-20) and how it is applied in the church. For example, in the past four years, both the Evangelism and Sunday School Ministries have teamed up to canvas the neighborhood around the Cooper Road Campus to share the history of Eastern Star Church, the Word, offer prayer as well as extended an invitation to attend VBS at the church. VBS is also viewed as a family reunion, ‘church style,’ where all three campuses come together as one to fellowship, have fun, and study God’s Word. Members are offered the opportunity to volunteer and serve the community, while the children get a chance to showcase what they have learned through their crafts, skits, and music – it’s a family affair for all to get involved! This year, Eastern Star Church will host VBS at the Cooper Road Campus July 18 through July 20 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. each night with this year’s theme focusing on God the Creator – Discovering the God of the Universe. The themed scripture comes from Colossians 1:15-16, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For everything was created by Him, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers on authorities – all things have been created through Him and for Him.” Classes will be offered to children three years old (potty-trained), tweens, teens, young adults, and adults. The same lessons will be taught to all to allow family and members to discuss the lessons amongst each other. Participants will learn the following: • • • • •
How the God who created us wants a relationship with us How the relationship was broken: Sin messed everything up, but God is still in control How restoration was promised: God sent His Son to be the Savior of the world How the relationship was restored: Jesus gave His life to be our Savior How the relationship continues: Even though we messed up, God still love us Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the upcoming Vacation Bible School July 18 – July 20! We look forward to seeing our church family!
Summer Activities on a Budget Written by Valerie Wortham
Summer is one of the best times to join family and friends for indoor or outdoor fun and excitement, you don’t want to miss. You might find yourself asking the questions: can I do this outing, or can I afford to take my kids to the movies? What about a concert? The wrong type of budgeting can place a damper on any fun. To lessen some of the anxiety, here are a few summer activities you can do, and still, have a great time! Summer Activities at no cost Georgetown Digital Cinemas has free kids movie June 8 – July 27. Check local listings for movies and movie times. Kids Bowl Free – Kids receive two (2) free games of bowling every day, all summer long. Visit www.kidsbowlfree.com to register. Flat Creek Park has free Tree House Climbing. Flat Creek Park is located at 16141 E. 101st St. Fishers, IN. Barnes and Noble offer kids in grades 1st through 6th who participate in the Summer Reading Triathlon can snag a free book. The program runs through September 5. The Indianapolis Public Library has a Read It and Eat It summer reading program for kids, teens, and adults through July 29. Visit indypl.org for more details. Summer Activities at $10 or less Carmel Water Park at Monon Community. Admission cost: $10 for adults and $7 for youth ages 3-15. Freedom Springs Water Park in Greenwood, IN. Admission cost: $6 for Greenwood residents and $8 for non-Greenwood residents. Studio Movie Grill at College Park offers a budget friendly option to watch $1 screenings of recent, children films. Visit www.studiomoviegrill.com for movies and locations. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis offers $5 admission the first Thursday evening of every month from 4 – 8 p.m. Skateland offers $2 admission and $2 skate rental every Tuesday all summer long. Skateland is located at 3902 N. Glen Road, Indianapolis, IN. Visit NCAA Hall of Champions. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for youth ages 6-18. Summer Activities at variety of cost and free events Indy Parks and Recreation - Visit, apm.activecommunities.com/indyparks/ for pool location and hours, concerts, and movies times. Indiana Black Expo-Summer Celebration July 6 – 16. Visit www.indianablackexpo.com for events, concerts, and free exhibits. The IBE Exhibition Hall at the Indiana Convention Center is free for all July 14 – 16. For additional cost saving ideas, visit Indy’s Child website at indychild.com or other local resources online.
Servants in Action Ministry: Membership Expectations: Serving Others Baptism in the Spirit of Christ Written by Phyllis Kendall
Written by Nicole Ashburn and Janai Downs
Not yet part of a ministry at Eastern Star Church? Ready to get in where you fit in? If you have the desire to serve but your time is limited, consider joining the Servants in Action (SIA) Ministry. The Servants in Action Ministry serves, assists, and supports other Eastern Star Church (ESC) ministries, church events, and community partners on an as needed basis.
Baptism is important for believers! Often in the Word of God, you will see ‘believing in Jesus Christ for salvation’ and ‘baptism’ together; the two are not separated. Christian baptism is one of the ordinances that Jesus instituted for the church. Just before His ascension, Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20). These instructions specify that the church is responsible to teach Jesus’ Word, make disciples, and baptize those disciples.
The SIA Ministry allows you to choose the volunteer opportunities according to your availability. Service opportunities may include but are not limited to community events and outreach, registration and clerical support, church conferences and events such as Vacation Bible School, Annual Hallelujah Celebration, and ESC Care Center with special projects. The SIA Ministry also volunteers outside of ESC by serving dinner to the residents of Dayspring Center every third Tuesday of the month. Crystal Strong, who shares SIA leadership duties with Le’Joy White said, “Part of the plan to grow the ministry, involves engaging and inspiring volunteers to serve with joy, compassion, and gentleness. There’s no greater reward than serving God and serving others. When we help to meet the needs of others, God will meet our needs.” SIA Ministry meetings are held the fourth Thursday of every other month at 6:30 p.m. at the Main Campus. The next meeting will be held on July 20. For more information about the Servants in Action Ministry, visit our website or email servants@easternstarchurch.org. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men; knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24 ESV).
Baptism is an exciting time to express our union with Christ. The act itself does not save us. It is, however, an outward symbol of our inward commitment to Christ. When we are saved, by confessing that Jesus is Lord and believe in our heart that God raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 10:9-10), we are baptized by the Spirit into the Body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:13 says, “We were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body – whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free – and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.” Baptism by water is an outward display of what has taken place through the baptism by the Spirit when a believer has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. In the Greek language, baptism means to immerse. It illustrates the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ as well as our own death to sin and new life in Christ. Eastern Star Church believes baptizing a believer in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, by submerging completely in water represents death to sin, and emerging from the water represents the cleansed, holy life that follows salvation. Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Here are Eastern Star Church’s steps for members that have not been baptized: • • •
You must accept God’s plan for salvation according to Romans 10:9. Complete New Member’s Orientation and register for baptismal services. Baptismal services are held the second Sunday of each month at all campuses. Check in at the registration desk at your campus, and you will be escorted to the baptismal area to get dressed and be baptized.
Note: the earliest age for baptism at Eastern Star Church is five (5) years old. Also, you do not need to get baptized again if you have been baptized by immersion. It’s important to clarify that Baby Dedication is not the same as baptism. Baby Dedication is an act permitting parents to present their child to God and make a public commitment to raise their child in the way of the Lord. If you have completed New Member’s Orientation and have not been baptized, visit our website by clicking on the MEMBERSHIP AND MEMBERSHIP SERVICES tab to register for the next baptism.
Characteristics of Debt-Free People Written by Alisa Allen
Have you ever asked yourself why some people are able to get out of debt and others aren’t? Keith Wilson, Stewardship Manager at Eastern Star Church, conducted a biblical characteristics study of the lives of those who are debt free to find common characteristics. Some of those traits are the following:
Wisdom: Psalm 24:1, “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it, the world and all who live in it.” Realizing that God owns it all and He allows them to be Stewards (managers) of Gods resources, debt-free people begin to handle money differently and seek to eliminate debt at all cost.
Goal Driven: Luke 14:28-30, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying this fellow began to build and was not able to finish.” Debt-free people track their spending on a daily basis and utilize their budget to stay on course combined with a periodic review of their financial plan.
Sacrifice: Hebrews 13:16, “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
Debt-free individuals avoid luxury expenses such as premium cable packages, excessive eating out, extravagant vacations, etc. They set a goal, make temporary budget cuts, and utilize a budget to meet their goals.
Non-Materialistic: Philippians 4:12, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” The person who is determined to get out of debt realizes that money does not buy happiness and places less emphasis on “stuff.”
Patience: Proverbs 14:29, “A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.” They are not fazed by advertisements to make impulse purchases like the latest flat screen television, newest model cellular phone, or the hottest fashions/trends because debt-free people will not buy unless they can pay cash. They are willing to wait, work, and save for those items.
Responsible: 1 Timothy 5:8, “if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
A debt-free person puts the needs of their household first, lives on a budget, and gets out of debt. It is most important to see debt for what it is – financial bondage is a barrier for living the life God has for us. Having the ability to be patient, make sacrifices, and use wisdom in spending will help eliminate debt and eventually break the chains of financial bondage. Bro. Wilson testifies that by applying the debt free character traits, studying God’s Word, and learning from past experiences, one can successfully get out of debt. Starting in August, don’t forget to register for the upcoming Financial Freedom Institute 101A classes.
Volunteer Spotlight Written by Alisa Allen Natalie Griggs has been a part of the Link Ministry for 12 years. The Link Ministry has allowed Sis. Griggs, the good fortune to witness to nonmembers and members while building stronger relationships with her church family better. She has gained so many valuable friendships that have helped her during difficult times in her life. Sis. Griggs states, “I was extremely blessed to have my church family by my side when my 22-year-old son had become ill and when he passed away in March of 2010.”
Ray Bracey has been serving in the Barnabas Ministry since 1996. Volunteering in the Barnabas Ministry gives Bro. Bracey the opportunity to serve God, give back to His Kingdom, and build new friendships with people from different walks of life. He enjoys volunteering because he has a love for God and a strong commitment to communicating with potential members about the church, church membership, and whether they are a new believer or experienced Christian.
Demetria Newell has been a part of the Barnabas for six years. When someone answers the call to discipleship, Sis. Newell provides them with information about the church, how to become a member, ESC ministries, and explains the Romans Road to Salvation through prayer. She states, “I am thankful and honored to be able to share Jesus with others. I volunteer because of the privilege to lead someone to our Savior. Supporting them along the way brings an unspeakable joy into my heart.”
Sherri Roger has been serving in both the Link and Barnabas Ministries for years. Sis. Roger states, “With these ministries, God has given me a soft voice of love that His Kingdom can be edified in the members of Eastern Star Church.” The books of James, Daniel, and God’s servant Moses have all been key witnesses in her life, encouraging her to share the love of Christ through the interconnection of Link and Barnabas. To join the Link or Barnabas Ministries or view other ministries at Eastern Star Church, visit our website by clicking on the MINISTRIES tab then SERVICE.
CALENDAR Important Dates for All Members Visit our website calendar to view updates and registration details for the following: Alzheimer’s Awareness Session: June 17 Join the Senior Saints Ministry for an informative session on Alzheimer’s Awareness on June 17 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Main Campus in the Sanctuary. The free session will address early detection, self-care for the caretaker, legal rights, and more! Vendors will also be available for screenings and provide additional resources! Receive a $10 gift card from the Alzheimer’s Association/TrialMatch if you are at least 55 years old and agree to an Alzheimer’s screening, limited gift cards available. SERVE Opportunities: June 18 Visit the Link Ministry table to learn more about how you can serve and get connected in ministry at Eastern Star Church on June 18 after each worship service. For more information, visit our website or call (317) 591-5050 ext. 212. Spiritual Gifts Class: June 22 The next Spiritual Gifts Class is June 22 at the Cooper Road Campus in Room 307 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. You must register online and complete the Free Spiritual Gifts Assessment by visiting our website and clicking on the CALENDAR tab. For more information, call (317) 591-5050 ext. 212. New Member’s Orientation: June 24 The next New Member’s Orientation will be held on June 24 at the Fisher Campus from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Registration is required and must be completed by June 21 to participate. New Member’s Orientation is offered to children, tweens, teens, and adults. Registration is available on our website by clicking the ABOUT US tab, then MEMBERSHIP AND MEMBERSHIP SERVICES. For additional information, call (317) 591-5050 ext. 256. Teen Church: June 25 (all campuses) Teens come be a part of an interactive worship experience that is geared and ran by teens. Teen Church times are the following: 9:15 a.m. at the Fishers Campus, 10:45 a.m. at the Cooper Road Campus, and 12:15 p.m. at the Main Campus.
CALENDAR Eastern Star Church Scholarship Deadline: June 26 The ESC scholarship application is available for download on our website! For scholarship requirements, visit our website by clicking on the NEWS tab. Applications must be postmarked by June 26. We Be All Night: A Conversation about Love, Sex, and Relationships: June 30 Join The C.R.E.W. (ages 18-35) on June 30 at the Main Campus from 7 – 9 p.m. as they discuss how to have healthy relationships, dealing with sexuality while single, and more. Afterwards, join The C.R.E.W. for fellowship at Main Event Entertainment with eMerge, Mt. Carmel Baptist Church’s young adult ministry. For more information, email thecrew@easternstarchurch.org. No Noon Day or Bible Study: July 4 – 6 Noon Day or Evening Bible Study will resume on the following days: Tuesday, July 11 at 7 p.m. at the Fishers Campus, Wednesday, July 12 at 12 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Main Campus, and Thursday, July 13 at 7 p.m. at the Cooper Road Campus. Women of the Word and Men of Purpose: July 8 Women of the Word and Men of Purpose will meet on July 8 from 9 – 11 a.m. at the Main Campus. Vacation Bible School: July 18 – 20 Vacation Bible School will be held at the Cooper Road Campus from 6:30 – 8 p.m. Marriage Ministry Coffee Talks: July 22 Join the Marriage Ministry at the Main Campus on July 22 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. for Coffee Talks. Couples will have an interactive discussion about God’s design for marriage. For more information, call (317) 591-5050 ext. 115. Baby Dedication: July 23 Baby Dedication will be held on July 23 at all three campuses. Registration is required and must be completed by July 19. At least one parent must be a member to participate.
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