ISSUE 4 VO LU M E 5 A U G 2 01 7 1
CONTENTS 4 Who are the Klein’s?
21 Beecher
6 Reach Project Update
22 Cedar Lake
8 The Big 3
24 Dyer
14 Missions Update
28 Hammond / Munster
19 Care & Connections
29 Highland
20 Santo Domingo Update 27 One Church: Trintity + Faith
30 Schererville 31 Valparaiso
Content deadline is due the 7th of every other month for the next issue. Submit to: kjustice@WeAreFaith.org
Interested in getting a pic on the cover? Email Dan Vos at dvos@WeAreFaith.org.
Whether you’ve been attending Faith Church for a long time or you are a first time visitor, THE PAPER is here to help! Being a part of this church family is a partnership in growth, so we encourage you to be involved in 3 ways:
1 | WORSHIP ON THE WEEKENDS Gather with others to listen to a message from God’s Word, sing, pray and lift up the name of Jesus. Attend a service at one of our campuses. Faith Kids (infants5th grade) is a safe place where kids can worship Jesus at their level. Don’t miss the opportunity to gather with others and worship each week. Invite a friend.
2 | CONNECT IN COMMUNITY Being a follower of Jesus was never meant to be done alone. Sole-ranger Christianity usually means discouragement and failure. God has provided a better way- Biblical community. Community keeps us encouraged, helps us build meaningful friendships, and most importantly, helps us grow as Christians. This can be through a Mini-Church, Bible Study or Serving Team. No matter what your age, God does not intend for you to walk through life alone. Be real. Be known.
3 | SERVE OTHERS Join a weekend Serving Team at one of our campuses, serve in your neighborhood or around the world! God has gifted each of us to do something special. Discover the joy of serving.
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FAITH FAMILY H IG H L I G H T T H E K L E I N FA M I LY
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WHAT IS YOUR NAME? Rev. Aaron Klein. I’m married to Nicole. We have four children: Adriana (15), Nathaniel (13), Gabriel (11) & Samuel (9). When I pastored a church in Pennsylvania for nearly 10 years, on our very first mission trip, I got the name P.A. for Pastor Aaron from PA. It stuck, and after a while I even had adults calling me P.A. But you can call me Pastor Aaron, or just Aaron. I’m also not sure “The Most Holy Reverend” would really fit.
WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Both Nicole and I grew up in the Chicagoland area. I’m originally from the Country Club Hills area and later from Palos Heights. Nicole is from the Mokena/New Lenox area. We both went to Chicago Christian High (where we met), followed by Trinity Christian College. When we graduated from college in 1998, we got married and moved to Holland, Michigan where I attended Western Theological Seminary and graduated in 2002. We then took a call as an Associate Pastor at a church in the northern suburbs (Bucks County) of Philadelphia for nearly ten years before we got a call to plant a church in Lakewood Ranch, Florida (near Bradenton/Sarasota). We moved there in 2011 having zero contacts and no seed people from a parent church, but with a specific calling to reach disconnected people for Christ. By the grace of God, Current Community Church was established in November of 2012. Since that time, God has been growing Current and transforming lives with the power of the Gospel. We’re thankful to have seen dozens of disconnected people commit their lives to Jesus for the first time and be baptized, as well as countless others who have recommitted their lives to Christ. It’s why we talk about our church being a “current” of moving water that renews, refreshes, restores, and reflects the love of Jesus Christ (the “Water of Life”) to a hurting and broken community. It’s all the things the liturgy talks about in the waters of baptism. And while it has been the most challenging thing we have ever done, there is no doubt that it has also been the most rewarding. So why the change? Over the past year, we had begun to sense God may be moving us in a new direction, to take the things we have learned on the mission front back into an established church setting. Instead of engaging people one relationship at a time, what if we were able to encourage an entire congregation to live their lives on mission and change the culture of a city one life at a time? And that’s what brought about a conversation with Faith.
WHERE DO YOU SERVE AT FAITH CHURCH? We are so excited to be partnering with Faith through serving as the Campus Pastor at Schererville. And since our current church still meets at a middle school, we figure we’d fit right in with the culture that comes along with not having a permanent building. We’ve found that we are continually reminded the church isn’t a location or a destination, it’s the people. WE are the church, the ekklesia of God. And so, relationships are even more important, which is something we excel at. In fact, our tag line at Current Community Church has been “Relationships in Mission,” so we feel like it’s really going to dovetail well with Faith’s mission and values. We’re excited about the opportunity to build on the strengths of people of Schererville and to participate in the life of the community one relationship at a time to reach the disconnected and to grow the connected!
WHAT HAVE YOU SEEN GOD DO IN YOUR LIFE? God has always been moving us out of our comfort zones in order to serve Him. When I graduated from seminary, we told God where we would and wouldn’t work. And we told Him that we would never go to the “evil” East Coast. Nine years later, as I was preaching a message to our congregation out east (in the “evil” East, ha!), and challenging people to take a risk and to step out in faith, I said, “I get it. You’re saying, ‘That’s what a pastor has to say. But I have to put food on my table and a roof over my head. How am I supposed to do anything crazy for God?’” But then I said, “But I live in safety and security too. Because I know that you’re going to show up on a Sunday morning, and I’ve got a roof over my head. So what would a risk look like for a pastor? What if God said, ‘I want you to start a church where there are no people and no money?’ I just need to get to the place where I say, ‘God, whatever you ask of me I will do, and that’s the challenge for any of us.’” The very next day, the phone rang in my office, and the guy on the other end said, “You know, your name keeps coming up. We’d like you to pray about moving to Florida to start a church…” They always say a pastor must be careful what they preach. I totally get it, but I don’t want to live any other way. I can’t wait to challenge the people of Faith to live similarly in the weeks and years ahead.
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REACH UPDATE The summertime is often a season of construction and we have seen a number of Reach projects happening over the past few months. Here are a few highlights: BEECHER Beecher received updated exterior signage. DYER Currently, construction is underway for a bathroom in the preschool (Under the Sea) room as well as a Family Restroom on the main level to help us as we continue to reach young families, and people and families with various needs. The video system in the Worship Center was updated earlier in the Reach Project, and we are now working on upgrading the sound system, which was starting to show its age. A sign with our new logo was also placed on the Dyer building. HIGHLAND The Highland campus has worked on turning an area into a “family room” to be used by small groups to reflect our emphasis on community. The building is also in the process of receiving updated exterior signage. VALPARAISO Faith Valpo saw some work done in the late spring to make some improvements to allow a daycare and preschool to use the building. FAITH MUNSTER Part of the Reach Project included funds for new campuses to help reach new people in the community. With the enfolding of Trinity Reformed Church with Faith Hammond to make Faith Munster (see page 27), we are now in the process of making improvements to the building before launching as well as promoting the new location to the community.. WORK ABROAD In addition to the domestic projects, work continues to be done on the vocational school in Brazil as the electrical system was installed as well as walls, ceilings and floors. They are now in the process of installing doors, windows and plumbing as the summer is a more comfortable time for work. It is projected work will be completed in November.
The Reach Project is also supporting the work happening at our campus in Santo Domingo under the leadership of David Mojica; there is an update on the work there in The Paper as well so we won’t steal David’s thunder (go look there!). As we enter into the last half of 2017, we are now in the final stage of our Reach Project pledges; the Project was a three year project, essentially covering 2015, 2016 and 2017. We are hoping to reach our goal of $7.6 million in giving here in the last half of 2017 and have been pacing well towards doing so. We would encourage you to finish strong as we continue the works mentioned above and plan ahead for additional projects, knowing the funds given as part of this Project are reaching people near and far with the good news of Jesus Christ.
FINANCIAL UPDATE As we have now crossed the halfway point of the year, we wanted to give you a report on our church’s overall financial health. Through the first six months of the year, our giving as a church is 5% ahead of the pace from last year with a number of a our campuses currently exceeding their giving goal. We are watching our expenses and our expenditures year-to-date and have only spent about 92% of what we had budgeted. We have had a good first half of the year and hope for a strong finish in the last six months so that we can meet our budget for the year and start well for next year. Thank you for your continued generosity! Please know through your faithful giving you are both worshiping the Lord who has given us everything and also investing in the Kingdom. Lives are being changed through the work of Faith Church and the ministry partners that are part of our church budget.
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REFUGEES & IMMIGRANTS WHERE DO CHRISTIANS STAND? TUESDAY, AUGUST 1 7-8 PM IN FAITHFUL GROUNDS
SPEAKERS: DR. BRIAN DENNERT & TONY BURRELL THURSDAY, N O V. 2 6
HOSTED BY THE VINE BOOKSTORE & FAITHFUL GROUNDS - FAITH DYER
RECOMMENDED
READING
Tuesday, Sept. 12
6:30 - 8:30 PM in Faithful Grounds at Faith Dyer
Artist: Jan Krediet | Cost: $25
(includes coffee, snacks & supplies for a finished product)
Registration opens September 5 at WeAreFaith.org/ArtClasses Contact Beth at bfrank@WeAreFaith.org with questions. 7
BY: L I N DA J O R DA N
H
ere at Faith we have a concept called, The Big Three. Are you familiar with it? You might be thinking it represents the three primary colors; of the people, by the people, for the people; or hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil. But that’s not what we mean. The Big Three has appeared on page three in each issue of “The Paper”. It represents three ways in which we encourage anyone that is part of Faith Church to get involved. We believe through worship, connecting in a group and serving others will lead to a transformed life
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity. - Psalm 133:1 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other. - James 5:16 What does all of this mean?
Our vision is to restore and transform the world around us one relationship at a time. Each element of The Big Three is essential to achieving this vision.
God wants us to walk through life together with His Word and His Holy Spirit as our guide. Living in community means walking with others who love the Lord. When we belong to a group and share both joys and struggles of our lives, we celebrate, cry and learn to persevere together. At Faith Church, there are many opportunities to enter into a group so you can walk through life with others.
WORSHIP
SERVING
The most important relationship we have is with God. When we stop long enough to consider all God has provided us, our natural response should be one of thanksgiving and praise. Since the same God who created everything we see, hear, smell, and feel delights in and cares deeply and personally for us, the least we can do is gather to pour out our praise. We gather on weekends to acknowledge and lift up the name of Jesus, who sacrificed himself for us. He deserves our voices in song, our hearts in prayer and our minds in learning His very nature through the teaching of His Word. We encourage adults to attend a service on the weekend. During the services, we offer children the opportunity to worship at their level in Faith Kids. In the Old and New Testaments we are instructed by the Lord:
As we grow in relationship with God and with others, we are called to be in relationship with others by serving. There are many calls to service in Scripture.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. - 1 Chronicles 16:29 Therefore, let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe… - Hebrews 12:28-29
CONNECTING God’s Word instructs us to be in relationship with each other. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together... - Hebrews 10:24-25
“...through love serve one another.” Galations 5:13 “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others...” - 1 Peter “... as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone.” - Galations 6:10 Serving each other doesn’t have to mean traveling across the globe. We can serve each other right here at church. Passing out programs, greeting those entering the building, serving coffee, or working in The Vine or Faith Family Market are just a handful of ways you can serve. In the community, you can serve by putting together food boxes, wrapping angel tree gifts, or working in a local resale shop or soup kitchen. Of course, traveling to a country to serve those in need is another way to serve. Faith Church offers avenues of service inside the walls of the church, in our community and across the world. Consider your relationship with God, with others and with others through serving. The Lord calls us to weave each of The Big Three into our lives to accomplish our Faith Church vision. Living a Christian life requires us to give Him our best praise, walk with each other in community and serve one anther. How do you include each of The Big Three in your life?
HURTING MOMS NEED EACH OTHER! You are not alone. No one understands the pain of having a child who is making destructive decisions, disengaging from their family and disrespecting the values they have been taught like another hurting Mom. This community of moms is designed to be a safe place where moms can come together to share with one another while they work through a process that will bring them freedom and healing from their pain. Each HMMH group challenges members to grow in their relationship with Jesus as they learn to trust Him in the midst of their pain. The ultimate goal is for every Hurting Mom to learn to surrender their children to God, knowing He created them, loves them and has a plan for their lives. Informational Meeting: Monday, August 21, 6:30 PM | Faith Dyer - Room 144 Group will begin in September and will run for 10-weeks. Contact: Karyn Justice at kjustice@wearefaith.org
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churches, businesses, governments, schools and families. A world-class event, The Global Leadership Summit is simulcast LIVE in HD to more than 550+ Premier Host Site locations in North America. You are invited to join an expected 400,000+ participants in 128 countries in 2017.
REGISTER TODAY AT WILLOWCREEK.COM/SUMMIT REGISTER TODAY AT WEAREFAITH.ORG/SUMMIT
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AUGUST FEATURES
BOOK OF THE MONTH
BIBLE OF THE MONTH
A Spectacle of Glory By Joni Eareckson Tada
Beyond Suffering Bible $30
$10 11
FaithWare Faith Church clothing, mugs, journals and other cool stuff available now. Sweatshirts are prepaid special orders. Sizes are available to try on in the Vine. WeAreFaith.org/FaithWare
Is The Ravines for You? “I think every married couple should go to The Ravines,” said a woman who recently came with her husband. So many issues can take a toll on the God-ordained relationship of marriage. The Ravines is a retreat center where married couples come for help. They may be in crisis or in need of a time of refocus. Couples are provided Christ-centered professional counseling in an uninterrupted setting. Privacy and confidentiality are provided for our couples who come from Faith Church and from around the country (and beyond). To have a confidential conversation with our staff, email TheRavines@WeAreFaith.org or call (219)-864-5063. Like us on Facebook @TheRavines
To learn more and hear stories of God’s work, visit TheRavines.org.
DISCOVER FAITH & PARTNER WITH FAITH Discover Faith Classes
Partner with Faith Classes
Beecher - Sunday, September 17, 12:30-3:00 PM
Beecher - Sunday, October 1, 12:30-3:00 PM
Cedar Lake - Tuesday, September 19, 6:30-9:00 PM
Cedar Lake - Tuesday, October 3, 6:30-9:00 PM
Dyer - Thursday, September 21, 6:30-9:00 PM
Dyer - Thursday, October 12, 6:30-9:00 PM
Munster - Sunday, September 17, 3:00-5:00 PM
Munster - Sunday, October 8, 3:00-5:00 PM
Highland - Thursday, September 21, 6:00-9:00 PM
Highland - Thursday, October 12, 6:00-9:00 PM
Schererville - Thursday, September 28, 6:30-9:00 PM
Schererville - Thursday, October 12, 6:30-9:00 PM
Valparaiso - Thursday, September 21, 6:30-9:00 PM
Valparaiso - Thursday, October 12, 6:30-9:00 PM
For more classes and to register, visit WeAreFaith.org/join.
BY: CORRIE VOS
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ANDREW & FAY AUGENSTEIN Faith Church gratefully and proudly supports many missionaries and mission agencies. We believe it is important the Faith members hear stories from our supported missionaries so we can be an encouraging and prayerful community for them. Andrew and Fay Augenstein are supported by Faith Church through prayer and finances in their work with Cru. They currently reside in Orlando, Florida, where Cru’s headquarters are located. Although they both grew up in the Northwest Indiana region, they did not meet until they each decided to be a part of the Campus Crusade ministry at Ball State University. Several years later they are married with two children, Grant (age 4) and Jacob (age 2), and still have a passion for the ministry and seeing it continue to grow. Both Andrew and Fay consider themselves as working in administrative roles, but they use their unique gifts in different areas of their work. Andrew is talented in the technology department and is using his skills to reach people through the use of the internet, mobile apps, and web apps. Fay is spending most of her time at home with her two sons, but plays a role in women’s ministry by providing resources and encouragement through written articles to female missionaries. Cru began as a ministry on school campuses called Campus Crusade for Christ. Its campus ministry has grown significantly and has also expanded beyond school campuses. It is currently reaching groups through various programs such as Athletes in Action for athletes, Family Life, Bridges for International Students, the Jesus Film Project, the Global Aid Network, a military ministry, and many others. One of Cru’s goals, as described by Fay, is “to build spiritual movements everywhere... so that the Great Commission is fulfilled in our lifetime.”
Since technology is constantly advancing, Andrew says he and others working in the technology department have been coming up with new ways to use the internet, mobile apps and web apps to reach people where they are. One of their newest additions is the app called Voke in which they partnered with OneHope and I Am Second to create. The purpose of the app is to use technology to start spiritual conversations. Users have access to video resources to send to their friends as a starting point in these conversations. When asked about challenges they have faced while serving in missions, Andrew and Fay explained they recognize tension in the technological advances. While online communication is not as impactful or personal as face to face interaction, sometimes the only way to reach certain people groups is through technology, especially in countries where one is not allowed to travel as a missionary. Fay mentioned they are fortunate to have seen 29 individuals come to Christ through digital means. Although it might not be the most ideal way to build relationships, the internet and mobile apps have impacted lives all over the world. As the Faith Church community continues to support the Augensteins, there are specific areas in which they can pray. One area is for Cru as they work hard to figure out ways to enhance and create safer digital ministry. Secondly, Andrew will be traveling more frequently in the upcoming year, which will require him to cross into unstable and unsafe countries. Pray for safe travels and peace of mind for him and for Fay as she stays home with their sons, and for her to find positive community while he is away. Finally, pray for our supported missionaries and mission agencies as a whole that they may further God’s Kingdom through their unique gifts and
The Insight Conference is a low cost, local creative community networking event, featuring speakers that lift up our mission to educate, inspire & transform.
SEPTEMBER 15
6:00-9:30 PM AT VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY
INSIGHT CONFERENCE
FOR MORE INFO VISIT
INSIGHTNWI.COM
BOOK CLUB Book: Long Way Gone by Charles Martin Available for purchase in the Vine for $10.
Thursday, August 25 August 24, 6:30-8:00 PM 6:30-8 PM in Faithful Grounds Classroom 142 Book: Long Way Gone | By Charles Martin*
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FAMILY
MINISTRY Bottom row from left to right: Chris Ravesloot, Phil Krygsheld, Ronnie Holmes, Tammy Groen, Kim Slager Top row from left to right: Clarice VanderVelde, Kim Vanderzee, John Benson, Kay Brucer, Pam VanderMeer
Beecher
Middle School* Friday, Sept 8, 6-7:30 PM High School** Friday, Sept 8, 7-8:30 PM
Cedar Lake
FULL FAITH KIDS RESUMES SEPTEMBER 9/10 (for infants through 5th grade)
Middle School* Wednesday, Sept 13, 6:30-8 PM High School** Wednesday, Sept 6, 6:30-8 PM
Dyer
Middle School* Wednesday, Aug 16, 6:30-8:15 PM High School** Sunday, Aug 20, 4-6 PM
Highland
We would like to thank all the wonderful volunteers that served during the summer in Faith Kids preschool and nursery.
Middle School* - Sunday, September 10, 6-7:30 PM High School** - Sunday, September 17, 6-7:30 PM (Time may change based on leader availability)
Schererville
Student Mini Church Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 PM *6-8th grade | **9-12th grade
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MomsNation is dedicated to encouraging, equipping and empowering moms at all stages.
Motherhood is a journey full of joys and challenges. No matter where you are on your journey, Faith Church has a group to suit your needs. Group meetings kick-off in September! Visit our website for group descriptions, times, & locations.
MomsNation.org
WEDNESDAYS LIVING OUT THE GOSPEL THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS
STARTING SEPTEMBER 20 GROUPS & DINNER 5:45 | WORSHIP 7:00 | GROUPS 8:15 CHILDCARE PROVIDED FOR DINNER & WORSHIP (INFANT- 10 YRS) | FAITH DYER
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CARE & CONNECTIONS ALL CAMPUSES INVITED CARE Hurting Moms, Mending Hearts Mondays, 6:30 PM August 21 - Informational meeting Faith Dyer | Room 144 Contact Karyn at kjustice@WeAreFaith.org This confidential ministry provides love, encouragement, support and hope to hurting moms. Overcomers Mondays, 7 PM Faith Dyer | Rooms 144/145 Contact Marlys at daveip@hotmail.com This ministry is for patients and caregivers of patients with lifealtering illnesses. Meets the 2nd & 4th Monday each month Our Hope Tuesdays, 7-9 PM Faith Dyer | Prayer Room Contact Jeri at jeri.darchuck@tecmungo.com Grief support group for women Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month Celebrate Recovery Tuesdays, 7-9 PM Faith Dyer | The Garage Contact Jim C at celebraterecovery@WeAreFaith.org Fridays, 7-9 PM Hammond Arts Center Contact Jim P at jrpaglis@yahoo.com Celebrate Recovery (CR) is based on the original 12 steps of recovery and the Beatitudes-the actual words of Jesus. CR is open to everyone as a place of rescue, restoration, safety and renewal for those seeking God’s healing from life’s hurts, hang-ups and habits. Meets weekly Celebration Place Tuesdays, 6:45 PM Faith Dyer | Farm/Jungle Contact Beckie at bhayes@WeAreFaith.org Celebration Place is designed for kids Kindergarten through 13 years of age whose parents
attend Celebrate Recovery. We hope to make Jesus the foundation of their lives, break cycles of dysfunction and join their parents in forgiveness & healing.
Preparing for Marriage is offered twice per year. Detailed information about weddings can be found on WeAreFaith.org (Connect-Events & Classes-Weddings).
Fresh Hope Wednesdays, 7-8:30 PM Faith Highland Contact Vinnie at vadams@WeAreFaith.org Fresh Hope is our Mental Health Support Group. This group is both for individuals who have a mental health challenge AND their loved ones (family members, close friends). For more information, visit WeAreFaith.org (connect/caresupport/mental-health).
Marriage Enrichment is offered every Wednesday night at the Dyer campus. See Dyer page for dates and times of classes.
NA-The Grace Street Recovery Meeting of Narcotics Anonymous Thursdays, 7-8:30 PM Faith Highland | Room 201 Contact Rob Pettit at (219) 381-6768 This is an open meeting where all are welcome, but only members are encouraged to speak. OA- Overeaters Anonymous Fridays, 10-11 AM Faith Highland | Room 101 Contact Barb Russo at (219) 742-3397 Steps and Traditions study style with guest speakers every week. Meets weekly
CONNECTIONS Faith Singles Thursdays, 7-9 PM Faith Dyer | Room 146 Contact Sandy Reitsma at faithsingles@WeAreFaith.org Meets weekly Marriage Ministry Groups Faith Dyer Contact Gina at marriages@WeAreFaith.org Your marriage health is vital! Whether you are preparing for marriage, want to enrich your relationship or are experiencing needed repair, Faith Church is committed to helping marriage relationships grow.
Marriage Repair is ongoing. Visit the Marriage Support page on WeAreFaith.org (Connect-Care & Support-Marriage Support) for more information. 12.1 Running Club Saturdays, 7 AM Erie Lackawanna Trail, Highland (On Kennedy under Ridge Road viaduct) Contact Louie & Mary Cioe at cioe@sbcglobal.net Meets weekly Pass It On Hockey Sundays, 6:40 AM Homewood-Flossmoor Ice Arena Contact Carl at hockey@WeAreFaith.org Men of all ages welcome. Meets weekly through April Card Connection Thursday, 6:30 PM Faith Dyer | Room 140 Contact Jeri darchsmom@gmail.com Meets the last Thursday of the month to make cards for the Faith Church family. Faith Stitchers Thursday, 1-4 PM Faith Dyer | Rooms 140/141 Contact Sharon at sharontlc756@hotmail.com We knit & crochet for those in need. Meets the 2nd Thursday each month
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FAITH SANTO DOMINGO UPDATE BY: DAVID MOJICA GRACE & PEACE! God continues to show His faithfulness! Since moving to our new worship location – a public school auditorium – we have seen many kids and their families come out to worship with us on Sundays. Our arts program on Sundays is also going strong. We have made a firm commitment to be a church that is active during the week ministering to the needs of people and not open just on Sundays. As such, we continue to gather volunteers who enter the classroom during the week and bring the love and hope of Jesus to kids. Due to the insistence of a primary school principal, we agreed to enter a second school where we share God’s love with the kids and run music and arts programs. The hope here is to gather folks for worship at this second site in the near future. We are praying to see the person God will send to serve this community and whether or not God will connect us with a local Kingdom-minded leader who can catch on to the vision of seeing local schools as a potential mission and worship center. So, as we continue to stay focused on the spiritual and numerical growth of our first plant-leading vibrant worship, Gospel-centered preaching, intentional discipleship and service in the community-we are as intentional in bringing on prospective gospel partners with the intent of sparking an indigenousled church planting movement in public schools. Our prayer and goal is to grow FC Santo Domingo Campus to 100 by the first quarter of 2018, to start worship at the second school where we are active, and to partner with two additional local leaders who will adopt two schools by the end of 2018 and begin planting in those schools. Help us pray as we discern God’s voice in who would stay behind and lead our first plant as I prepare to fully dedicate myself to identifying and equipping local missionaries with a heartbeat for unleashing a church planting movement in Greater Santo Domingo and throughout the island. At the time of writing this report, we are with the family in California, part vacationing and seeing colleges for our 16-year-old, Esther, who will graduate, Godwilling, in the Summer of 2018. We are also trying to connect with churches who can be part of a church
planting network out here. After gathering with a group of pastors at Tulare, CA, we will be gathering with local pastors in the Indiana and Michigan areas. Our drive in the D.R. is to be a multiplying church that reproduces and sends out missionaries to plant churches at a rhythmic and on-going pace. In order for us to continue reproducing churches, we need to build networks around North American churches that will help finance and in some cases, provide training if we are to launch a church planting movement in the power of the Holy Spirit. By the end of our stay in the states, we will be celebrating two major networking gatherings and asking churches to partner with us in multiplying more churches in the D.R. This will be in addition to churches we have already connected with in California and the 2-3 additional congregations in the Michigan area who might be interested in partnering with us. Please pray for powerful connections during our visit for greater Kingdom-impact and for God’s covering of our church campus in Santo Domingo in our absence. We are hearing great reports on what God is doing through the leadership at Faith Church Santo Domingo and how everyone is stepping up and taking ownership of this ministry. We are excited about what God is already doing in our midst and in the direction this ministry is heading. These are some of the impacts spearheaded by this movement of the Holy Spirit: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Weekend attendance: Adults (60) and children (45) In the past quarter, more than 12 people have given their lives to Jesus and are attending our Sunday worship service. Small groups at Faith Church Campus: 5 Small group participation: 45+ people Attendees at New Believers & Baptism Class: 8 Over 45 kids (about 25 from the school) are attending Faith Kids Church. Kids participating in our arts programs on Sundays: 45 Number of students at 2 schools we minister in every week: 500 Number of volunteers at 2 schools during the week: 7 Note: we are only engaging kids in grades 3-5, but with additional volunteers we would engage all primary grades in the 1st quarter of 2018. Number of schools ready for us to enter and engage their kids: 4 Number of local church partners identified and interested in planting in schools: 2
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BEECHER WORSHIP 201 E. Church Road, Beecher, IL 60401 (708) 946-2545 Office Hours: Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8:30 AM-4 PM If you need assistance on Weds, please call Leanne at (219) 864-0300. FaithChurchBeecher Service Times: Sunday, 9 & 11 AM *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Sun, 9 & 11 AM Begins September 10 Faith Kids Summer Worship Begins June 3/4 for ages Infants-children entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2017 (Through August 27) The Vine bookstore is open after all weekend services. Want to serve? Want to be connected? Have prayer needs? Need more information about Faith Beecher or any classes/events? Complete the tearoff portion of the weekend program & submit it to the Welcome & Hospitality Center.
MITM - Moms in the Middle (Moms of School-Age Children) Fridays, 9-11 AM September 8 & 22 Contact Wendi Hanegraff at mitmbchr@WeAreFaith.org Stitchin’ Sisters Tuesdays, 9:30 AM Will resume in the fall. Watch for details. Contact Marietta Koster (708) 258-6450 or lkmkkos12@att.net Meets 1st Tuesday ● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 19 ● STUDENTS Faith Beecher Students Contact Scott at smattingly@WeAreFaith.org Meets every Friday night Middle School (6th-8th grade) 6-7:30 PM High School (9th-12th grade) 7-8:30 PM Begins September 8 ● CARE
CONNECT
Faith Family Market Thursdays, 6-7 PM (No appointment needed) Contact Stephanie at StephWiater@gmail.com Open 1st & 3rd Thursday each month
● WOMEN
See page 19 for additional care groups.
Women’s Daytime Bible Study Tuesdays, 1-2:30 PM Will resume in the fall. Watch for details. Contact Ann at asmit@WeAreFaith.org Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday Women’s Evening Bible Study Wednesdays, 7-8:30 PM September 13 Contact Barb at bennbarb2@gmail.com Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday MOPs - Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Thursdays, 9-11 AM September 7 & 21 Contact Megan mopsbchr@WeAreFaith.org
● CLASSES & EVENTS Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith.
SERVE There are many ways to get involved at Faith Beecher. Contact the following ministry leaders for more information about serving on one of these teams. Care & Share Team (card & meal ministry) Contact Marietta at lkmkkos12@att.net Coffee Ministry Contact Christa at c.roszak@yahoo.com Faith Family Market Contact Stephanie at StephWiater@gmail.com Faith Kids (Infant - 5th grade) Contact Leah at lprairie@WeAreFaith.org or Rachel at rmalkowski@WeAreFaith.org Faith Students (6th-12th grade) Contact Scott at smattingly@WeAreFaith.org Frontline Team Contact Frank at basile.f@sbcglobal.net Moms Nation (MOPS/Moms in the Middle) Contact Christie at cpostma@WeAreFaith.org Prayer Team Contact Bob at backhoe1957@gmail.com Worship - Are you an instrumentalist or vocalist interested in serving? Contact Scott at smattingly@WeAreFaith.org Tech - Interested in helping with media, lights & sound during our worship services? Contact John Clausing at jclausing@WeAreFaith.org
Discover Faith (Class 1) Sunday, September 17 at 12:30-3 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Sunday, October 1 at 12:30-3 PM Join date is November 19. Register at WeAreFaith.org/Join or get a paper registration form at the Community & Connections board.
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CEDAR LAKE WORSHIP 6729 W. 133rd Ave Cedar Lake, IN 46303 (219) 374-6309 Office Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8:30 AM-4 PM Fri: 8:30 AM-2 PM If you need assistance on Wednesdays, please call Sue at (219) 864-0300 FaithChurchCedarLake Service Times: Sunday, 9 & 11 AM *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Sun, 9 & 11 AM Begins September 10 Faith Kids Summer Worship Begins June 3/4 for ages Infants-children entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2017 (Through August 27) Reflectors Worship (Disability Ministry) Sun, 11 AM
CONNECT ● WOMEN Women’s Bible Study Stronger, by Angela Thomas Tuesdays, 7-9 PM Begins September 12 Contact Karla at kweemhoff@WeAreFaith.org Meets every other Tuesday MOPs - Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Thursdays, 9-11 AM September 7 & 21 Contact Michelle at mopscl@WeAreFaith.org or Lauren at lsinwels@gmail.com MITM - Moms in the Middle (Moms of school-age children) Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 AM September 13 & 27 Contact Michelle at
mitmcl@WeAreFaith.org
● STUDENTS
Praying Moms Ministry Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 AM | Atrium Contact Denise at tdkuiper1@comcast.net Will resume in the fall. Watch for details.
Faith Cedar Lake Students Wednesdays, 6:30-8 PM Contact Jason at jasons@WeAreFaith.org
● MEN Bible Study Saturdays, 7-8:30 AM Contact Terry at tcconley2@gmail.com or Rob at rhvankuiken@comcast.net Meets weekly Bible/Book Study Wednesdays, 6:30 PM Contact Matt at mdlenting@sbcglobal.net Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday ● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN)
SMALL GROUPS Cupples Group Lexie Cupples lcupples@WeAreFaith.org Fennema Group Kristen Fennema Fennema@att.net Hayes Group Becky & Jeremy Hayes bhayes@WeAreFaith.org Huisman Group Matthew & Rhonda Huisman huisman.matt@gmail.com Kortokrax Group Charles & Bonnie Kortokrax kortokrax_2000@yahoo.com Pekny Group Greg & Jennifer Pekny gpekny@att.net Vankley Group Bill Vankley wlvankley@gmail.com Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 19
Fall Kickoff - September 6! More details coming soon. Stay connected with us & our activities via: Faithchurchstudents.com Facebook.com/studentsCL Instagram: @FaithStudentsCL For text updates, send the message @ fclyouth to 81010 ● CARE Faith CL Care Team Looking for someone to walk alongside you during a difficult time? Our Care Team is here for you! If you battle depression or have a loss of a loved one, marital issues, illness or any other difficult life circumstance, you do not need to walk that path alone! We have both a men’s and women’s team. Please contact our Care Team at CLCare@ WeAreFaith.org or contact our church office. Faith Family Market Mondays, 10 AM-Noon (closed the 5th Monday) Contact Beckie at bhayes@WeAreFaith.org Additional Market Needs: paper towels, toilet paper, detergent, pasta, spaghetti sauce, cereal, mac ‘n cheese, sloppy joe mix Reflectors Ministry Sundays, 11 AM Contact Lexie at lcupples@WeAreFaith.org This ministry exists to help people with any disability grow in their relationship with Jesus at their own level and to be enfolded into the church community. Kids Worship buddies and prayer partners are available to help make church more accessible to them and their caregivers. Please contact us if you know of anyone who could be blessed by this ministry or if you have an interest in serving in this capacity. See page 19 for additional care groups.
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● CLASSES & EVENTS Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith. Discover Faith (Class 1) Tuesday, September 19 at 6:30-9 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Tuesday, October 3 at 6:30-9 PM Join date is November 19. Register at WeAreFaith.org/Join
SERVE Bless Our Community Get ready to impact the Cedar Lake community for Christ! Men of Faith is looking for MEN AND WOMEN to help meet the needs and serve those in our community. Can you help with small repair work, painting, deep cleaning, etc.? Meet on the last Saturday of each month from 8:30 AM–12 PM. Contact Terry Conley at tcconley2@gmail.com
Kids Hope Would you like to help change a child’s life? Kids Hope USA is in need of mentors for kids. Children are paired with a caring church member who serves as their mentor. The mentor and child meet for one hour a week, each week of the school year. Mentors spend time reading, playing games and being a “friend” to a child who needs one. The Cedar Lake Campus serves the children of MacArthur Elementary School. If you are interested or want to know more, contact Jennifer LeRose at jlerose@WeAreFaith.org. Musicians Wanted! Are you an instrumentalist or vocalist interested in serving? We would love to get to know you! For more information, please contact Tammy in the Worship Office at tammyl@WeAreFaith.org. Additional Opportunities There are many ways to get involved at Faith Cedar Lake! Contact the following ministry leaders for more information or if you’d like to serve on one of these teams!
Card Ministry Marcy at tmmjurek@aol.com Faith Kids (infant-5th grade) Ronda at rhuisman@WeAreFaith.org Frontline team (includes greeters, welcome center, coffee service) Karla at kweemhoff@WeAreFaith.org Prayer Team Denise at tdkuiper1@comcast.net Praying Moms Ministry Denise at tdkuiper1@comcast.net Security Nick at nickham2264@gmail.com Technical Arts Angela at abultema@WeAreFaith.org Worship Team Jason at jasons@WeAreFaith.org Faith Family Market Beckie at bhayes@WeAreFaith.org
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DYER WORSHIP 100 W 81st Avenue | Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 864-0300 FaithChurchDyer Service Times Sat, 6 PM & Sun, 9 & 11 AM *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Saturday, 6 PM | Sunday, 9 & 11 AM Begins September 9/10 Faith Kids Summer Worship Begins June 3/4 for ages Infants-children entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2017 (Through August 26/27) Reflectors Worship (Disability Ministry) Sun, 11 AM The Vine bookstore and Faithful Grounds Coffee Shop are open before and after all weekend services.
CONNECT ● WOMEN Women’s Bible Studies For a current list of all Women’s Bible Studies, visit the Women’s page at WeAreFaith.org. I Peter - A Living Hope in Christ Tuesdays, 9:15 AM | Room 143 Begins September 5 Contact Patricia at pjaracz@outlook.com Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday
torismits@gmail.com Meets Weekly For childcare contact Tori HeartLIFT Facebook Study I Peter - A Living Hope in Christ Tuesdays, 8 PM | Facebook Begins September 12 Contact Patricia at pjaracz@outlook.com Meets every other Tuesday Card Connection Thursday, 6:30 PM | Room 140 August 31 Contact Jeri darchsmom@gmail.com Meets the last Thursday of the month to make cards for the Faith Church family. Faith Stitchers Thursday, 1-4 PM | Rooms 140/141 September 14 Contact Sharon at sharontlc756@hotmail.com We knit & crochet for those in need. Meets the 2nd Thursday each month Women’s Prayer Group Monday, 11 AM | Room 144 Contact Julie at msgoodynuf@aol.com Meets weekly MOPs- Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant - Kindergarten) Meetings will resume in the fall Thursday Morning MOPs 9-11:15 AM | Atrium September 14 & 28 Contact Sarah or Melissa at mopsdyeram@WeAreFaith.org Friday Morning MOPs 9-11:15 AM | Atrium September 15 & 29 Contact Sarah or Melissa at mopsdyeram@WeAreFaith.org
Finding I Am Thursdays, 7 PM | Room 143 Begins September 7 Contact Rose at dreaminroses@att.net Meets every other Thursday
Thursday Evening MOPs 6:30-8:30 PM | The Garage September 14 & 28 Contact Amy or Carrie at eveningmops@WeAreFaith.org
I Timothy Mondays, 9:15-11:15 AM | Room 145 Begins September 11 Contact Tori at
MITM - Moms in the Middle (Moms with 1st-12th graders) Thursdays, 9:15-11:15 AM | Rooms 144/145 September 14 & 28
Contact Christy or Mel at mitmdyer@WeAreFaith.org ● MEN Prayer Group Wednesdays, 8 AM | Prayer Room Meets weekly for fellowship and to pray for the cares and concerns of the Faith family. Men’s Bible Study Saturdays, 6:30 AM | The Garage Contact Dante at menoffaith@WeAreFaith.org Meets 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Saturday ● Adults (Men & Women)
SMALL GROUPS Band of Brothers John Jeanor jjeanor@comcast.net Bible, book-by-book Clausing Group John Clausing & Dave Balka jclausing@WeAreFaith.org Creatives Group Sergio & Yanina Gomez sergio@33contemporary.com Disciple those in the Arts Dalach Group Mike Dalach & Rich Wondaal mikedalach@gmail.com Dennert Group Brian & Beth Dennert bdennert@WeAreFaith.org DeYoung Group Jerry & Cindy DeYoung cindydeyoung6@yahoo.com DeYoung/Vermeulen Group John & Karen DeYoung, Mike & Gail Vermeulen jdy150314@gmail.com Dykstra Group Lou & Dori Dykstra lddykstra@gmail.com Faith Singles Sandra Reitsma faithsingles@WeAreFaith.org Single/single again Farmer Group Randy & Sue Farmer farmerrg@hotmail.com
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Hauflaire Group Luci Hauflaire luciinthesky3@yahoo.com Jeanor/Dominikovich Group John Jeanor jjeanor@comcast.net Liszka Group Joe & Kim Liszka tokyo53@sbcglobal.net Mammina Group Ben & Rose Mammina bvmblue@gmail.com Most Awesome Small Group John & Kathie Jeanor jjeanor@comcast.net Nearpass Group Andy & Judy Nearpass anearpass@WeAreFaith.org Slager/Dykstra Group Paul Dykstra pdykstra@actionplumbingin.com
PM, beginning with dinner. Class to follow from 6:45-8:15 PM. For more information and resources, check out WeAreFaith.org and the Marriage Ministry FB page @ faithmarriageministry. ● STUDENTS Middle School (6th-8th grade) Wednesdays, 6:30-8:15 PM | The Garage Kicks off August 16 with a cook out and informational meeting for parents Contact John at jbenson@WeAreFaith.org Meets weekly High School (9th-12th grade) Sundays, 6:30-8:15 PM | The Garage Kicks off August 20 Contact Chris at chrisr@WeAreFaith.org Meets weekly ● CARE
Toren Group Carl & Margaret Toren ctoren@sbcglobal.net
Additional Care groups listed on page 19.
VanDrunen/Hamstra Group Elmer VanDrunen & Al Hamstra alberthamstra@hotmail.com
Overcomers Mondays, 7 PM | Rooms 144/145 Contact Marlys at daveip@hotmail.com For patients and caregivers of patients with life-altering illnesses. Meets 2nd & 4th Monday
Varela/Wojnar Group Lee Varela & Denise Wojnar emu1127@gmail.com Wille Group Shosh Aumock & Trudy Wille saumock7@yahoo.com CHOIR Will resume in the fall. Watch for more details. Faith Singles Thursdays, 7-9 PM | Room 146 Contact Sandy Reitsma at faithsingles@WeAreFaith.org Will resume in the fall; Check the Faith Singles calendar for summer events. Marriage Ministry Groups Contact Gina at marriages@WeAreFaith.org The Marriage Ministry is available for you to get connected as a couple. Preparing for Marriage classes are held twice per year in Dyer but are open to all campuses. The next Preparing for Marriage class will take place on Wednesdays from September 13-October 25, 7-9 PM. Register at WeAreFaith.org under the Wedding or Marriage page. Marriage Enrichment is offered at all Wednesdays discipleship evenings. Begins September 20. Groups at 5:45
Our Hope Tuesdays, 7-9 PM | Prayer Room Contact Jeri at jeri.darchuck@tecmungo.com Grief support group for women Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday Celebrate Recovery Tuesdays, 7-9 PM | The Garage Contact Jim at celebraterecovery@WeAreFaith.org A place of rescue, restoration, safety and renewal for those seeking God’s healing from life’s hurts, hang-ups and habits. Meets weekly Childcare for Celebrate Recovery Tuesdays, 6:45 PM Contact Beckie at bhayes@WeAreFaith.org Ages infant-5 yrs Celebration Place Tuesdays, 6:45 PM Contact Beckie at bhayes@WeAreFaith.org Designed for kids Kindergarten through 13 years of age whose parents attend Celebrate Recovery; we hope to make Jesus the foundation of their lives, break cycles of dysfunction, and join their parents in forgiveness & healing.
Meets weekly Hurting Moms, Mending Hearts Monday, 6:30 PM | Room 144 Informational Meeting Aug 21 Begins September 11 Contact Karyn at kjustice@WeAreFaith.org Meets weekly for 10 weeks Faith Family Market Sundays, 8:45 AM-12 PM | Room 128 Contact Denise at Denise@Wiersemas.com Provides assistance to those who have grocery needs. Please shop & receive care before the 11 AM service; you may stop and pick up your groceries after the service. Open the 2nd & 4th Sunday Reflectors Sundays, 11 AM-12 PM | Rooms 140-147 Contact Vinnie at vadams@WeAreFaith.org There are multiple classrooms that function similar to a special education classroom but also promote inclusive activities. Volunteers are trained and have had a background check. Typical elements include: modified Bible lessons, crafts, games, singing and other interactive activities. Orange Room | Reflectors Room Lower Level - Children, ages 3-12 Small Group | Room 145 Adults, ages 18 and up Rooms with 1-to-1 volunteer-toparticipant ratio: Gold Room | Rooms 140/141 Children, ages 3-12 Green Room | Rooms 146/147 Teens, ages 13-18 Blue Room | Room 144 Adults, ages 18 and up Quiet /Sensory Room | Room 142 All ages Reflectors Teen & Adult Social Western Night Friday, August 18, 6:30-8:30 PM Come join us for our 3rd social of 2017, and don’t forget your cowboy hat! For teens and adults with special needs. RSVP at reflectorsministry.org Marriage Repair and Support Contact Gina at marriages@WeAreFaith.org As a couple/individual providing Marriage Support and guidance through the Faith Church Care Team.
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● HEALTH & WELLNESS Faithfully Fit Mon, Wed & Fri, 5:05-6:05 AM Contact Ray and Mary Tambrini (708) 650-2287/ mary.tambrini@trnty.edu Join us as we exercise to various workout videos including Jackie, Jillian Michaels & Bob Harper. Go at your own pace. Any age or gender is welcome. 12.1 Running Club Saturdays, 7 AM Erie Lackawanna Trail, Highland (On Kennedy under Ridge Road viaduct) Contact Louie & Mary Cioe at cioe@sbcglobal.net Meets Weekly Pass It On Hockey Sundays, 6:40 AM at Homewood-Flossmoor Ice Arena Contact Carl at hockey@WeAreFaith.org ● CLASSES & EVENTS Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith. Discover Faith (Class 1) Tuesday, September 19 at 6:30-9 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Tuesday, October 3 at 6:30-9 PM Join date is November 18/19 for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith. Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@ WeAreFaith.org. or register online at WeAreFaith.org. Baptism Class Sunday, October 15, 9 AM | Rooms 146/147 Baptism Service, November 18/19 Contact Linda at ljordan@WeAreFaith.org Infant/Child baptism is for parents requesting baptism for their child(ren). Register at WeAreFaith.org Coffee & Canvas Tuesday, September 19, 6:30-8:30 PM | Faithful Grounds Contact Beth at bfrank@WeAreFaith.org Cost is $25 which includes supplies for a finished product, coffee & snacks Registration opens September 5 at WeAreFaith.org/ArtClasses Cocoa & Canvas Saturday, October 21, 9-11 AM | Faithful Grounds Contact Beth at bfrank@WeAreFaith.org Cost is $15; Register at
WeAreFaith.org/ArtClasses Golf Classic Tuesday, October 3 Registration & Lunch at 11 AM Shotgun start at 12 PM Register at WeAreFaith.org/GolfClassic Cost is $125 for golfers/$40 for nongolfers; Dinner and awards at 5 PM
SERVE Landscape Team We need help once a month to “adopt” a plot and keep it weed free. If interested, contact Bryan at bford@WeAreFaith.org. Kids Hope USA Would you like to help change a child’s life? Kids Hope USA is in need of mentors for kids. Children are paired with a caring church member who serves as their mentor. The mentor and child meet for one hour a week, each week of the school year. Mentors spend time reading, playing games and being a “friend” to a child who needs one. The Dyer Campus serves the children of Bibich Elementary School. If you are interested or want to know more, contact Jennifer LeRose at jlerose@WeAreFaith.org. Faith Kids (Infant - 5th grade) Contact Kim at kvanderzee@WeAreFaith.org The time you invest in a child’s life matters. Join us as we build relationships and have an eternal impact in the lives of God’s children this year. Sign-ups and more information at faithchurchkids.org. Kids Hope USA Would you like to help change a child’s life? Kids Hope USA is in need of mentors for kids. Children are paired with a caring church member who serves as their mentor. The mentor and child meet for one hour a week, each week of the school year. Mentors spend time reading, playing games and being a “friend” to a child who needs one. The Dyer Campus serves the children of Bibich Elementary School. If you are interested or want to know more, contact Jennifer LeRose at jlerose@WeAreFaith.org.
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ONE CHURCH TRINITY +F A I T H
COMING TOGETHER TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY
BY: MARILYN MILLER It all started with a conversation over coffee about a year ago. What might it look like if Trinity Reformed Church in Munster came together with Faith Church? Soon after, the conversation focused on the Hammond Campus.
Trinity’s Rev. Rich Bawinkel welcomed Faith Hammond to the joint service. Longtime Trinity and Transition Team member Arlene Schoon shared from her heart:
The conversations continued. In both groups, the vision began to take shape and the questions turned from “why” to “what might it look like?”
My husband and I were married in this church, we raised our kids here, we’ve been involved in many activities here, so Trinity means a lot to us. But it’s a new day, a new beginning and a new time. I am so excited to welcome you, Faith Hammond. . . I am amazed at your commitment, your enthusiasm and your willingness to share your talents. I can truly say, I’ve seen Jesus in you. My prayer for both of our congregations is to enrich each other and complement each other as together we help to spread the gospel in Munster and beyond. Welcome, Faith Hammond, as together we become Faith Munster.
In May, Trinity’s congregation voted by a significant majority to be enfolded by Faith Church. Faith’s leadership agreed and things started moving.
Pastor Charlie Contreras (who has pastored Faith Hammond and will be the pastor of Faith Munster) shared God’s Word with the 230-plus gathered.
A transition team was formed to begin working out details. Pastor Jason DeVries of Faith Highland was charged with leading this team. Jason comes with a depth of experience by leading transitions at Faith Valpo and Faith Highland. FAITH MUNSTER will officially be launched in the fall. But what about July? Why wait? It was decided to start meeting together before the launch, beginning the process of becoming One Church.
A One Church team has been charged to provide opportunities for relationship building over these next few months. Intentional hospitality, plus all-church picnics, men’s and women’s breakfasts are in the planning stages, all with the goal of unifying these two congregations.
Trinity has been around since 1956. Faith Hammond is about seven years old. Trinity has been in the same place for 60-plus years. The Faith Hammond campus has worshiped in four different buildings in its short history.
FIRST SUNDAY TOGETHER Sunday, July 9 was our first meeting together. It was a precious service where the Spirit of God was evident.
Pastor Charlie Contreras has been thankful for guidance from the book, “Better Together.” He especially appreciates these words: “Each year, thousands of U.S. churches . . . are sensing that they could fulfill their God-given mission better together than separately. They’re exploring new ways to join forces for the advancement of God’s kingdom.”
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HAMMOND/MUNSTER WORSHIP Faith Munster 8411 Columbia Ave Munster, IN 46321 FaithChurchHammond Service Time: Sunday, 10 AM
Stevens Group Jennifer Stevens jenst98@att.net Women’s Bible Study Begins in the fall. Watch for details. Linda Kruczynski & Marianne Eenigenburg linda520@ameritech.net
*Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org
Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 19
Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Sunday, 11 AM Begins September 10
Additional Care groups listed on page 19.
Faith Kids Summer Worship Begins June 3/4 for ages Infants-children entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2017 (Through August 27)
CONNECT ● WOMEN Faith Stitchers Thursdays, 1-3:30 PM | HAC Contact Ginni at ginnit@hotmail.com Faith Stitchers gathers to crochet and knit baby and toddler blankets for a local women’s shelter, and provides hats and scarves for the people of Hammond. Join us as we make new friends, pray and stitch together. Meets the 4th Thursday, year-round ● MEN Bible Study Saturdays, 7-8:30 AM | Munster Contact Bob at rjeenigenburg@gmail.com Meets the 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Sat ● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) SMALL GROUPS Prayer & Discipleship Group | Munster Charlie Contreras & Mike Hooker ccontreras@WeAreFaith.org 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 6:30-8:15 PM
● CARE
Prayer Ministry Sundays, before & after service Contact Bob at rjeenigenburg@gmail.com Do you have needs, concerns, worries or praises? Stop in the Prayer Room for prayer and support. Faith Family Market | HAC Sundays, following both services Contact Lisa or Bob at blhberr@att.net The Market provides assistance to Faith members and regular attenders in need of groceries and basic necessities. Open 1st & 3rd Sunday Celebrate Recovery | HAC Fridays, 7-9 PM Contact Jim at jrpaglis@yahoo.com Celebrate Recovery (CR) is based on the original 12 steps of recovery and the Beatitudes-the actual words of Jesus. CR is open to everyone as a place of rescue, restoration, safety, and renewal for those seeking God’s healing from life’s hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Meets weekly.
Join date is November 19 for membership. Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@WeAreFaith.org or register online at WeAreFaith.org/Join.
SERVE Faith Kids Contact Bethany at bethanys@WeAreFaith.org Join us as we worship alongside & shine the light of Jesus on kids. Help us fuel the faith of the next generation. More information at faithchurchkids.org. Kids Hope USA Would you like to help change a child’s life? Kids Hope USA is in need of mentors for kids. Children are paired with a caring church member who serves as their mentor. The mentor and child meet for one hour a week, each week of the school year. Mentors spend time reading, playing games and being a “friend” to a child who needs one. The Hammond Campus serves the children of Kenwood Elementary School. If you are interested or want to know more, contact Jennifer LeRose at jlerose@WeAreFaith.org. Worship Team & Choir We would love to add to our worship team and choir. If you would like to be a part of this fun ministry, contact Jen at jwilson@WeAreFaith.org.
● CLASSES & EVENTS Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith. Discover Faith (Class 1) Sunday, September 17 at 3-5 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Sunday, October 8 at 3-5 PM
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HIGHLAND WORSHIP 8910 Grace Street | Highland, IN 46322 FaithChurchHighland Service Times Sunday, 9 & 11 AM 5 PM - All inclusive Service * Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th) Sunday, 9 & 11 AM. Begins September 10 Faith Kids Summer Worship Begins June 3/4 for ages Infants-children entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2017 (Through August 27)
CONNECT ● WOMEN Women’s Bible Study Philippians. Begins October 5 Thursday, 9:30 AM Contact Judy Nearpass at jnearpass80@@gmail.com We will be using the Discover Your Bible series. Meets every other Thursday MOPs - Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Tuesdays, 9-11 AM. September 5 & 19 Contact Amanda or Kristy at mopshigh@WeAreFaith.org Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday
Wydra Small Group (Married Couples in their 20’s and 30’s) Thursdays, 7:30-9 PM Contact J.R. Wydra at joseph.wydra@gmail.com Meets every other week DeVries/Ritzema Small Group (Parents of Middle & High Schoolers) Sundays, 6 PM, Contact Bryon at bryonanderin@gmail.com Meets 2nd and 4th Sunday Mothers in the Word Thursdays, 9:30 AM Will resume in the fall. Contact Lorene at levenhouse@yahoo.com Stasi Small Group Wednesdays, 6:30-8 PM. Contact Marian at m.stasi@sbcglobal.net Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 19 ● STUDENTS Faith Students Contact Amy at avanderzee@WeAreFaith.org For information throughout the summer “like” the Faith Students Highland Facebook page. Middle School (6th-8th grade) Sundays, 6-8 PM | Faith Highland Kick-off September 10 Meets 2nd & 4th Sunday High School (9th-12th grade) Sundays, 6-8 PM | Youth House Kick-off September 17 Meets 1st & 3rd Sunday
● ADULTS (Men & Women)
● CARE
SMALL GROUPS
Additional Care groups listed on page 19.
Highland Small Group Sundays, 5 PM | Room 104 Contact Rich Krooswyk at rich@krooswyk.com Follow-up discussion on the topic of the morning message. Meets 2nd & 4th Sunday Wigent Small Group Christianity 101 | Room 104 Sundays, 5-6:30 PM. Contact Maryanne at labtekmar@comcast.net Meets 1st & 3rd Sunday
Faith Family Market Mondays, 4:30-6 PM Contact: FFMhighland@aol.com Provides assistance to Faith members and regular attenders in need of groceries and basic necessities. Open 1st and 3rd Mondays Prayer Ministry Sundays, before & after service Contact Gary at gary91677@gmail.com Do you have needs, concerns, worries
or praises? Stop in the Prayer Room for prayer and support. Friendship Tuesdays, 7 PM Contact Vinnie at vadams@WeAreFaith.org or (219) 864-0300 x197 Friendship Ministry is a place where adults with special needs can gather to learn from God’s Word, sing songs, play games, eat snacks and enjoy a great time of fellowship. All are invited to come join the community! NA-The Grace Street Recovery Meeting of Narcotics Anonymous Thursdays, 7-8:30 PM | Room 201 Contact Mike Humphries at (219) 629-2612 An open meeting where all are welcome, but only members are encouraged to speak. OA-Overeaters Anonymous Fridays, 10-11 AM | Room 101 Contact Barb Russo at (219) 742-3397 Steps and Traditions study style with guest speakers every week. Meets weekly Fresh Hope | Wednesdays, 7 PM Contact email: freshhope@WeAreFaith.org This group is both for individuals who have a mental health challenge AND their loved ones (family members, close friends). For more information, visit WeAreFaith.org Meets weekly ● HEALTH & WELLNESS Faith & Fitness Class Mon, Wed & Fri 9-10 AM | Great Room Contact Karen at (219) 616-0187. Weight training for 50+. Bring your own weights. $3 per session Aerobic Class | Great Room Mon, Wed & Fri, 10:15-11 AM Contact Karen at (219) 616-0187 ● CLASSES & EVENTS Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith. Discover Faith (Class 1) Thursday, September 21 at 6-9 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Thursday, October 12 at 6-9 PM Join date is November 19 for membership. Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@WeAreFaith.org; register online at WeAreFaith.org/Join or get a paper registration form at the Welcome Center.
SCHERERVILLE WORSHIP The Gym at Campagna Academy 7403 Cline Avenue Schererville, IN 46375 FaithChurchSchererville Service Times Sunday, 10 AM * Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org
Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 19 ● STUDENTS Student Small Group Wednesdays, 6:30-8 PM | Campagna Gym Contact Mel Bendle at mbendle@WeAreFaith.org A place for middle and high school students looking for community and a place to connect. Meets weekly
Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Sunday, 10 AM Begins September 10
● CARE
Faith Kids Summer Worship Begins June 3/4 for ages Infants-children entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2017 (Through August 27)
Prayer Nights Thursdays, 6-6:30 PM | Campagna Chapel We believe in the power of prayer! Please join us to lift up prayer requests. Meets weekly
Chapel open every Thursday for prayer from 6-6:30 PM. Join us in the Community Cafe after each service for coffee and refreshments.
CONNECT ● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) SMALL GROUPS Contact Are you interested in connecting deeply at Faith Schererville? Contact Mike Rich at enricheddj@gmail.com to check out a small group. Rich/Pramuk Group Geoff & Francie Pramuk gffpram@gmail.com Brackins Group John and Carol Brackins jbrackins821@aol.com Mance Group Jeep and Jill Mance john.mance@rrd.com
Additional Care groups listed on page 19.
Care Line (219) 440-2678 We want to care for you! This number is available to make our leadership teams aware of any need you may have. Please leave a message and we will return your call within 24 hours. Prayer Ministry Contact Karen Hines ksera@live.com Meets before and after each Sunday service in the Prayer Room located in the Worship Center. ● CLASSES & EVENTS Men’s Group 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 8 AM | Campagna Chapel Join us as we grow together in our walk with Christ. No need to preregister...just show up! Contact Geoff Pramuk at gffpram@gmail.com with questions.
Discover Faith (Class 1) Thursday, September 28 at 6:30-9 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Thursday, October 12 at 6:30-9:30 PM Join date is November 19 for membership. Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@WeAreFaith.org or register online at WeAreFaith.org/ Join. ● Messages Missed a message? All of our messages can be found on Facebook or Vimeo (vimeo.com/faithchurch)!
SERVE Technical Arts Looking for a place to serve? We need YOU to help set up the gym once per month. Many hands make light work, so this is a great way to make a difference! We also need help tearing down after the service. To connect, contact Luis Garcia at lgarcia@WeAreFaith.org. Worship Team Our Worship team is looking for instrumentalists and vocalists. To connect, contact Dee Wilson at dwilson@WeAreFaith.org. Faith Kids The time you invest in a child matters! Join us as we worship alongside and shine the light of Jesus on infants through 5th graders each weekend. Help us fuel the faith of the next generation. More information at faithkids.org.
Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith.
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VALPARAISO WORSHIP 1155 S. Sturdy Road Valparaiso, IN 46383 FaithChurchValpo Pre-Worship Prayer Huddle Everyone is invited to join us in the Prayer Room on Sundays at 9:30 AM to lift up our worship service, leaders, campus & region. Service Time: Sunday, 10 AM *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Sunday, 10 AM Begins September 10 Faith Kids Summer Worship Begins June 3/4 for ages Infants-children entering Kindergarten in the fall of 2017 (Through August 27) The Community Café is open before (9:30-10 AM) and after the worship service. Fellowship/Discipleship Night 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 6 PM Dinner 6:30-8 PM Worship/Teaching/ Discussion Childcare provided
CONNECT ● WOMEN Women’s Bible Study Tuesdays, 7 PM Contact Jana at janajo8654@sbcglobal.net Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday Will resume in September. Watch for details. Valpo Moms (Moms with kids of all ages) Wednesdays, 9-11 AM September 20 Contact Kim at valpomoms@WeAreFaith.org
● MEN
Partner with Faith (Class 2) Thursday, October 12 at 6:30-9 PM
Men of Faith Saturdays, 7 AM | Upstairs Adult Classroom Contact Jim at jamesgammon@frontier.com Meets weekly
Join date is November 19. Register online at WeAreFaith.org/Join or get a paper registration form at the Welcome Center.
● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) SMALL GROUPS STEPPING UP GROUP Men’s Bible Study Tad Dranger dranger_11@yahoo.com Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 19 ● STUDENTS Contact Eric at jabaay3901@comcast.net Watch the weekend program for upcoming events and scheduled meetings. ● CARE Additional Care groups listed on page 19.
SERVE Faith Kids (infant-5th grade) Contact Jaime at jthompson@WeAreFaith.org or Ami at aatchison@WeAreFaith.org. Musicians wanted! Are you an instrumentalist or vocalist interested in serving? We would love to get to know you! For more information, please contact Dan Callan at dcallan@WeAreFaith.org. Other serving teams looking for additional help include Technical Arts, Frontline and Prayer Team. If interested in serving in any of these areas, visit the Welcome Center for more information or contact Pastor Brad at bhaitsma@WeAreFaith.org.
Reflectors Ministry Sundays, 10 AM Contact Brent at alpsjack1@gmail.com Meets 2nd & 4th Sunday Friendship Groups Thursdays, 6:30-8 PM Contact Brent at alpsjack@gmail.com Will resume in the fall. Watch for details. ● CLASSES & EVENTS First Sunday Lunch Downstairs, following the worship service. Join us on August 6 | September 3 Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith. Contact Leanne at lmast@WeAreFaith.org Discover Faith (Class 1) Thursday, September 21 at 6:30-9 PM
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