The Paper December Issue 12 Vol 2

THE PAPER

ISSUE 12 | VOL. 2 | DECEMBER 2015

Advent

Celebrating & Waiting

Family Highlight Meet gordon Gunnink

The Ravines

Experiencing Hope at Christmas

Christmas Service Times

CONTENTS 4 Who Is Gordon Gunnink?

6 Reach Project Update 10 Advent: Celebrating & Waiting 12 Christmas Service Times 14 The Ravines 16 The Bigger Picture

18 Beecher 19 Cedar Lake 21 Dyer 24 Hammond 25 Highland 26 Schererville 27 Valparaiso

Content deadline is due the 7th of each month for the next issue. Submit to: kjustice@faithchurchonline.org

THE BIG

3

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 (infant5th 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 may 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.

FAITH FAMILY HIGHLIGHT GORDON GUNNINK

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

HOW DO YOU CONNECT WITH OTHERS AT YOUR CAMPUS?

I was born and raised on a farm in a small Dutch settlement in SW Minnesota, Edgerton.

When we started attending Faith Dyer, I had the privilege of having then elder, Tim Prince, walk with me. He sensed I was a walking wounded, he was God’s agent to encourage me to grow. A couple of invitations by Charlie Bertucci finally landed me in “Men of Faith” on Saturday mornings. That ministry has been the most impactful group of brothers in my life. They helped deliver me from having relationship with my theology to having a relationship with the God of theology. Painful, humbling, but rewarding.

Come on down! We have room for a few more!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. At age 25, I was mercifully delivered from Satan’s power to begin a life of knowing Jesus Christ. I then attended Dordt college, where I met my wife Jamie.

She has been through a lot with me. We lived for 4 years in Bellflower, California before moving to our current location in Griffith. We have been blessed with 3 daughters. Courtney our oldest, lives in Hammond, Erin our second lives with us, and our youngest, Rachel resides in Elkhart, Indiana.

HOW DID YOU FIRST GET CONNECTED TO FAITH CHURCH? In 2006, we were attending a church that had been through a “women in office/authority of God’s word” split earlier, and then went thru a wrenching situation where the pastor was found morally unfaithful to his wife. We heard about Faith Church and started attending.

WHAT HAVE YOU SEEN GOD DO AT FAITH CHURCH? I have seen God answer prayers for wisdom and guidance through timely messages, “chance” meetings with individuals at church, and revelatory insights, encouragement, deliverance and forgiveness given in prayer team meetings. Go to that prayer room!!

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT THE WORSHIP SERVICES? We immediately sensed the worshipers liked being there, they wanted to be together for praising God, and fellowshipping. I was most impressed with how the pastors presented the scriptures. I appreciated their ability to connect their own walk to the passage at hand.

WHERE DO YOU SERVE AT FAITH CHURCH? I first enjoyed serving in the “Well” as an usher for some time and then when the Reflectors ministry started I felt led to serve there as my daughter was physically disabled.

WHAT HAVE YOU SEEN GOD DO IN YOUR LIFE? When Faith Schererville was launched, I sensed the need and desire to join there. There are plenty of needs in a start-up. Got to go on a prayer walk thru the neighborhood, have the great blessing of joining a brother and several sisters in Christ on the prayer team as well. Also have the privilege of being part of the oldest set up and tear down team in history, nicknamed the “Koathites” from Numbers 4. Been also able to connect with brothers remodeling the chapel at the campus for use in “Faith Kids”.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO SHARE? Several years ago, my youngest started to exhibit symptoms of mental illness. Dawn Lewis introduced me to the Fresh Hope support group which addresses these needs. I have been a part of the group for over 2 years.

I believe that Jesus Christ has the power, desire, and ability, to move his wounded children to wellness and a joyful life of service. I am fully confident that the approach of “Fresh Hope” is a Christ honoring path.

Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic): We are thrilled to announce that Iglesia FE RD (Faith Church – Dominican Republic) held a wonderful celebration of opening on Sunday, November 15 at 5 PM in Santo Domingo.

Pastor David Mojica and his team had been diligently working to identify a space where they could launch their weekend services. An existing church has opened its doors to allow us to begin holding services in the afternoon.

The Launch Team has been active in November obtaining ministry supplies and equipment to also launch the Faith Church Santo Domingo’s version of Faith Kids! This is another extension of the Reach Project, reaching more people and nations with the Gospel message!

Total Pledges: $7,677,884 Received to date: $2,285,044.89 Thank you for your generosity!

An encouragement to close out 2015: 2 Cor 8:10-11: “And in this matter I give my

judgment: this benefits you, who a year ago started not only to do this work but also to desire to do it. So now finish doing it as well so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have.”

The Apostle Paul is encouraging the church in Corinth to understand generosity, ultimately displayed in the cross and what Jesus did at Calvary, but also to finish what they had started from a giving perspective.

We at Faith Church have started a great work, only because of Jesus. The start of construction at Faith Church – Cedar Lake, improvements in Beecher, Dyer & Schererville, the launch of FC-Santo Domingo, and now we should finish that good work that we started. We should finish it well, not just in our desire to do so, but in action. Would you prayerfully consider how you can give generously to support the Reach Project and our first year of commitments?

And to finish the general fund to continue our day-to-day and week-to-week ministry.

May the Lord bless you continually!

DECEMBER BOOK OF THE MONTH Now available for the special price of $6

$10 OFF $25 or $15 OFF $50 One coupon per person per visit. Not valid with any other coupons or discounts. Good for merchandise only. Good through Dec. 23, 2015.

Holiday Hours Monday, Dec. 21

Closed

Tuesday, Dec. 22

9:00 am - 3:00 PM

Wednesday, Dec. 23

9:00 am - 7:00 PM

Thursday, Dec. 24

Closed

Friday, Dec. 25

Closed

Saturday, Dec. 26

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Sunday, Dec. 27

8:30 am - 12:30 PM

The Vine will be closed December 28 – January 1 Regular hours will resume Saturday, January 2, 2016

….. Where your purchase has a purpose.

GET YOUR CHILDREN CONNECTED INTO THESE MINISTRIES.

FAIT HSTUDENTS

(INFANT-5TH GRADE)

FAITHCHURCHKIDS.ORG

(6TH - 12TH GRADE)

FAITHCHURCHSTUDENTS.COM

DECEMBER 26/27 & JAN 2/3 FAITH KIDS NURSERY ONLY NO FAITH KIDS FOR AGES 3 YEARS THROUGH 5TH GRADE

Please consider including our missionaries in your Christmas card list this year!

George & Sara Ahiome Christian Reformed World Missions C/O Nigeria Courier, Ahiome 1700 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508-1407 Andrew & Fay Augustein 9922 Tivoli Villa Dr. Orlando, FL 32829 Janice (Mulder) Beatty 9311 W. 107th Pl. St. John, IN 46373 Paul & Becky Beck 2546 Stephenson Circle Freeport, IL 61032 Wayne & Barbara Brink P.O. Box 6180 Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 Luke & Linda Dalach 9025 Idlewild Dr. Highland, IN 46322 Caspar & Leanne Geisterfer TGU: 11203 227 N.W. 79th Ave. Doral, FL 33198-1632 Doug & Priscilla Higby 934 Alger Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49507 Mark & Sandy Hoekstra 419 East Grand Ave. Escondido, CA 92046 Paul & Dori Hoekstra 419 East Grand Ave. Escondido, CA 92046 Wayne & Miho Jansen 1-33-4 Higashi-cho Kogenei-shi, Tokyo 184-0011 Japan

Barbara Kapenga 174 W. 15th St. Holland, MI 49423-3316 Ed & Jan Kotynski 317 Hill Ave. North Aurora, IL 60542 Phil & Mari Manning P.O. Box 80 Kijabe, Kenya 00220 Milton & Cynthia Massie 11127 South Lowe Ave. Chicago, IL 60628 Emily Ratliff Tree House 7520 Brunswick Ave N Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 Dale & Mary Schreiber 1445 Johnstown Lane Unit D Wheaton, IL 60189 Bruce & Jan Smith 9784 Bennington Chase Dr. Orlando,FL 32829 Dick & Donna Swart Box 127 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Mike & Pretty VanProoyen Word of Life Camp Brgy. Perz Calaun Laguna 4012 Philippines Nathan and Liana Waldon 138 Belmar Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46219 Curt & Sherri Weerheim 1376 Harvest Run Dr. Lebanon, OH 45036

ADVENT C E L B R AT I N G & WA I T I N G

BY: DR. BRIAN DENNERT

W

hat do you think when you hear the word “Advent”?

Candles? Wreaths? Nativity scenes (known as a crèche)? Calendars filled with chocolate (yum!)?

Panic as the number of shopping days until Christmas decreases?!?

Christians throughout the world have been celebrating Advent for years (since at least the 4th century), but, like many traditions, we can talk about it and celebrate it without really knowing what it is about. So, we wanted to share about its meaning and how we are living into it at Faith Church. The word “Advent” itself is from the Latin word adventus (look, now you know Latin!), which means “coming” or “visit.” The season of Advent consists of the 4 Sundays before Christmas and is a time when we think about the two “advents” of Jesus - the first as a baby born in Bethlehem about 2,000 years ago and the second being his return as king that could come any day. Therefore, both celebration and anticipation mark Advent as we celebrate Christ coming for us and anticipate his return. Overall, Advent helps us to cultivate an awareness of God’s actions in the past, present, and future. God has done great things in the past, God always is, and God has promised to do things in the future.

This Advent season at Faith Church, we are doing a series called “Waiting Here for You” in which we think about how God’s people were waiting for Christ to come and make things right, and we are similarly waiting for Christ to return and bring His Kingdom in its fullness. While we are like the people of the Old Testament waiting for Jesus to come, we do so differently because he has already come – he has brought the kingdom in part now, and we know He will return because He has come! As we wait for His return, we wait not passively, reading magazines in the waiting room of this world, but in hope, peace, joy, and love, living as faithful citizens while the King is away, knowing He will return any time now!

We hope to help you wait better this year, aware of what Christ has done, what He has promised to do, and how that connects with your life now.

Christmas Services Beecher

Wed, Dec 23, 7pm & Thu, Dec 24, 3* & 5pm

Cedar Lake

Wed, Dec 23, 5* & 7pm

Dyer

Wed, Dec 23 , 5* & 7pm** & Thu, Dec 24, 1*, 3*, 5pm

Hammond

Wed, Dec 23, 7pm

Highland

Wed, Dec 23, 5* & 7pm & Thu, Dec 24, 2* & 4pm*

Schererville

Thu, Dec 24, 2* & 4pm

Valparaiso

Thu, Dec 24, 6pm* *Faith Kids available for children birth - 2 years old. **Reflectors (special abilities ministry) available for children 3 - 12 years old.

1 T IME SERVE OPPORTUNITY

Serve and love our infant through 2 year olds during the Christmas Eve services at any campus.

For specific service times and to sign up, go to faithchurchkids.org.

Hosted by the Vine bookstore & Faithful Grounds

God-Breathed: God into Man | Tues, Dec 15, 7 PM

Experiencing Hope at Christmas W

e have all heard the saying that Christmas is ‘the most wonderful time of year.’ The parties, decorations, family time, food, music, and on and on the list can go. And while for many the holidays are all that and more, for others it can be lonely and sad. Families are broken, marriages are struggling, spending is out of control, and an overall sense of depression floods the lives and minds of countless people every year.

Christ’s coming into this world offers hope, and hope offers joy and purpose. So how do you accept that gift?

How do you truly answer the statement when someone says “I don’t want to get my hopes up”? Are they afraid of being disappointed? Possibly. But maybe our disconnect has more to do with what we are hoping for.

In his book “God Came Near,” Max Lucado wrote: “Our problem is not so much that God doesn’t give us what we hope for as it is that we don’t know the right thing for which to hope. Hope is not what you expect; it is what you would never dream. It is a wild, improbable tale with a pinch-me-I’m-dreaming ending…Hope is not a granted wish or a favor performed; no it is far greater than that. It is a zany, unpredictable dependence on a God who loves to surprise us out of our socks and be there in the flesh to see our reaction.”

If receiving this hope means I need to experience complete hopelessness first, then The Ravines is God’s provision of hope to so many marriages. Couples who call are hopeless. They call because they do not know where else they can turn. And they come with little or no hope left in their heart. But they soon realize that they are not alone. If this world were perfect, there would not be any need for hope. The Ravines has seen

so often that when things look bleak that is where hope lives.

The good news of Christmas is that God brought hope to all of us. The gift of Jesus on that first Christmas was the perfect gift of hope. That hope includes love, forgiveness, grace, peace, reconciliation and joy. Luke 2:14 tells how the angels expressed what that hope is: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.

As couples continue to come to The Ravines to experience God’s gift of hope, they will ultimately receive the gift of grace. “Whether you have a good marriage or one in serious need of help, when life is coming at you full throttle, you simply cannot make it work in your own power. To have a marriage that thrives, you need grace”. – Dr. Tim Kimmel, Grace Filled Marriage If you would like more information about The Ravines, please visit our website at www.theravines. org. Our website has recently been redesigned to provide couples, leaders and organizations with more information, downloadable forms, and improved ‘userfriendly’ steps. You can also email The Ravines at pjabaay@theravines.org or call 219.864.5063.

And this hope will never disappoint us. We know this because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts through the Holy Spirit he gave us. Romans 5:5 May you experience God’s Hope this Christmas, Patti Jabaay Executive Director, The Ravines

Thursday, Dec 10

6:30 - 8:30 pm in Faithful Grounds Coffee Shop

Artist: Jan Krediet | Cost: $25

(includes coffee, snacks & supplies for a finished product)

Register at faithchurchonline.org /calendar of events Any questions contact Beth at bfrank@faithchurchonline.org

Faith Students Winter REtreat •

February 12-14 (Depart Approx. 3:00pm on Friday, Return 5:00pm on Sunday)

•

Springhill Camp – 7717 95th Avenue, Evart, MI

•

Open to middle and high school students from all campuses

•

Cost – to be determined

THE B I S N A P S H O T S

O

FAITH KIDS

ORDINATION OF PETE PINKOWSKI

CEDAR LAKE THANKSGIVING MEALS

WORSHIPPING ON WEDNESDAY

G G ER PI C TUR E F

T H E

G R E A T E R

F A I T H

F A M I L Y

SCHERERVILLE CHAPEL OPENING

TECHNICAL ARTS SWITCHER TRAINING

BAPTISMS AT DYER

FAITH CEDAR LAKE BUILDING PROGRESS

● CLASSES & EVENTS

BEECHER WORSHIP 201 E. Church Road Beecher, IL 60401

FaithChurchBeecher Service Times Sunday, 9 & 11 am *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@faithchurchonline.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th Grade) Sunday, 9 & 11 am 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 tear-off portion of the weekend program and submit it to the Welcome & Hospitality Center.

CONNECT ● WOMEN

Women’s Bible Study Wednesdays, 7 pm We will not meet Dec 23 Contact Leanne at lmast@faithchurchonline.org We are studying You’re Already Amazing by Holley Gerth.

Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday MOPS Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Thursdays, 9-11 am Meeting Dec 10 Contact Katie or Rachel at mopsbchr@faithchurchonline.org Meets every other Thursday Stitchin’ Sisters Tuesday, 9:30 am Contact Marietta Koster at 708.258.6450 Meets 1st Tuesday

● MEN Men’s Bible/Book Study Thursdays, 7 pm Contact John at jplug@juno.com Watch weekend program for topics and other updates.

Meets 2nd & 4th Thursday ● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) Mini-Churches Contact Anne at acontreras@faithchurchonline.org If you are looking to get connected at Faith Church, a Mini-Church is a great place to start. Stop by the Welcome Center and pick up a list of groups that are gathering or check out our Group Finder on the Faith Church website at: faithchurchonline.org/connect/ mini-churches/join.

One Marriage Groups Contact Gina at marriages@faithchurchonline.org.

One Marriage is available for you to get connected as a couple! Preparing for Marriage Classes are available twice per year. Enrich your Marriage by getting connected on Wednesdays at our discipleship night at the Dyer campus. In need of Repair?

Check out faithchurchonline.org for more information. ● STUDENTS Faith Beecher Students (6th-12th grade) Fridays, 6-8:30 pm Bring your friends!

Meets 1st & 3rd Friday ● CARE Faith Family Market Thursdays, 6-7 pm (No appointment needed) Contact Stephanie at StephWiater@gmail.com Specific FFM donations needed are located by the shopping cart in the entryway. Contact Stephanie if you are interested in being a part of the FFM team.

Open 1st & 3rd Thursday

There are a number of events occurring during Dec & Jan. Many of them will have specific details to follow in the weekend program closer to the event. Mark your calendar with the following dates: •Dec 6 – Please note: Beecher Community Christmas Walk has been cancelled. However, we will host a Christmas Carol Sing & Cookie exchange at church.Time and details to be determined and will be announced in the weekend program.

•Dec 11 – Christmas Movie Night at church.

•Dec 12 – Annual Manger Build.

•Dec 20 - Christmas Breakfast Potluck following the 11am service.

•Jan 22 (tentative date) - Fellowship event at church. Watch weekend program for specifics.

SERVE

There are many ways for you to get involved at Faith-Beecher. Contact the following team leaders for more information if you’d like to serve on one of these teams or you would like more information: Faith Kids - Contact Leah at lprairie@faithchurchonline.org or Rachel at rmalkowski@faithchurchonline.org Frontline Team – Contact Frank at basile.f@sbcglobal.net Frontline Connector Team – Contact Beth at mabetey83@comcast.net The Vine Bookstore – Contact Patti at shepard_rp@netzero.com Prayer Team – Contact Bob at backhoe1957@gmail.com Technical Arts or Worship Team – Contact Craig at cslings@faithchurchonline.org Coffee Service – Contact John at jcplug@juno.com Faith Family Market – Contact Stephanie at StephWiater@gmail.com Care & Share team – Contact Marietta at lkmkkos@comcast.net

CEDAR LAKE WORSHIP Cedar Lake Ministries 13701 Lauerman Street Cedar Lake, IN 46303 Community Arts Center (CAC) 13300 Lincoln Plaza Cedar Lake, IN 46303 FaithChurchCedarLake Service Times Sunday, 9 & 10:30 am *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@faithchurchonline.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th Grade) Sunday, 9 &10:30 am

CONNECT ● WOMEN Book Study - Seamless Tuesdays, 7 pm - CAC Contact Karla at kweemhoff@faithchurchonline.org Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday Moms in the Middle (Moms with school-aged children) Thursdays, 6:30 pm - CAC Contact Angela at ablocker18@hotmail.com Meets 2nd & 4th Thursday ● MEN Bible Study Saturdays, 6:30-8:30 am – CAC Contact Greg at gpekny@att.net Meets weekly Bible/Book Study - 7 Words to Change Your Family While There’s Still Time by James MacDonald Wednesdays, 6:30 pm - Space next to the CAC Contact Matt at mdlenting@sbcglobal.net Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday

● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) Mini-Churches Contact Anne at acontreras@faithchurchonline.org If you are looking to get connected at Faith Church, a Mini-Church is a great place to start. Check out our Group Finder on the Faith Church website at: faithchurchonline.org/connect/minichurches/join.

One Marriage Groups Contact Gina at marriages@faithchurchonline.org.

One Marriage is available for you to get connected as a couple!

Preparing for Marriage Classes are available twice per year. Enrich your Marriage by getting connected on Wednesdays at our discipleship night at the Dyer campus. In need of Repair? Check out faithchurchonline. org for more information. ● STUDENTS Faith Students (6th-12th grade) Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm - CAC Contact Jason at jasons@faithchurchonline.org Meets weekly Upcoming Student Events Mr. Christmas Tree – Dec 13 Winter Retreat – Feb 12-14 Stay connected with us via: Facebook.com/studentsCL Instagram: @FaithStudentsCL For text updates, send the message @fclyouth to 81010 ● CARE Want to be a part of the Angel team?

Contact Beckie Hayes at bhayes@faithchurchonline.org. We welcome you to help the team sort the angel tree gifts on Dec 6 at the CAC from 12-2 pm.

Faith Family Market Mondays, 10 am-noon - CAC (closed the 5th Monday) Contact Beckie at bhayes@faithchurchonline.org If you’re looking for a great place to serve the community and you’re available on Monday mornings, the Family Market team is a great place to start. We are looking for some extra hands to love the community.

Reflectors Ministry Sundays, 9 & 10:30 am Contact Ronda at rhuisman@faithchurchonline.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.

SERVE SOMETHING NEW! 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 at the CAC on the last Saturday of each month from 8:30 am – noon. Contact Greg with any questions: gpekny@att.net Kids Hope USA: Bring hope to a local at-risk child by becoming a Kids Hope mentor. Mentors spend one hour with a specific child each week of the school year reading, playing games and being a “friend” to a child who needs a caring adult in his/her life. Make a difference in your community one relationship at a time. The Cedar Lake Campus serves the children of MacArthur Elementary School.

If you are interested or want to know more, contact Jennifer at jlerose@faithchurchonline.org.

Free Lunch: We serve a free lunch at the CAC on the last Saturday of the month.

If your mini-church or group of friends would be interested in helping, contact May at 4evr-jong@comcast.net.

Frontline: Our Frontline ministry is looking for friendly people who will welcome and greet those who come on a weekend. We are also looking for volunteers for our Welcome Center to help people get connected. If you have a heart for people, we would love to have you join our team. Contact Karla at kweemhoff@faithchurchonline.org for details.

Other ways to get involved at Faith-CL: Faith Kids (infant-5th grade) Ronda at rhuisman@faithchurchonline.org Faith Students (6th-12th grade): Jason at jasons@faithchurchonline.org

BUILDING UPDATE

>

Prayer Team: Jerry at jerrylast@ameritech.net TAG or Worship Team: Jason at jasons@faithchurchonline.org Faith Family Market: Beckie at bhayes@faithchurchonline.org Security: Nick at nickham2264@gmail.com Card Ministry: Marcy at clcards@faithchurchonline.org Saturday Lunch: Dawn at dwester6720@comcast.net

MomsNation (MOPS/Moms in the Middle): Angela at ablocker18@ hotmail.com Frontline team (includes greeters, welcome center, golf cart, coffee service & The Vine): Karla at kweemhoff@faithchurchonline.org

Faith Students Winter Party

Sunday, December 13

5:30-8:30PM Dyer Campus Middle School and High School Students from all THURSDAY, seven campuses are coming together to celebrate.

There will be tons of fun activities, food,Nbeverages, O V. 2 6 music, and we cap the night off with the 1st Annual Faith Students Mr. Christmas Tree Pageant.

Contact Dante at menoffaith@faithchurchonline.org Meets 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Saturday

DYER WORSHIP 100 81st Avenue Dyer, IN 46311

FaithChurchDyer Service Times Saturday, 6 pm Sunday, 9 & 11 am *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@faithchurchonline.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th Grade) Saturday, 6 pm & Sunday, 9 & 11 am Reflectors Worship (Disability Ministry) Sunday, 11 am The Vine bookstore and Faithful Grounds Coffee Shop are open before and after all weekend services.

● ADULTS (Men & Women)

Contact Carol at 708.367.0283 We knit & crochet for those in need.

All are welcome.

Meets the 2nd Thursday (Sep-May) MomsNation MOPS Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant-Kindergarten) *Visit faithchurchonline.org/connect/adult/momsnation for exact dates for each group.

Thursday Morning MOPS 9 am - Atrium Contact Lauren at mopsdyeram@faithchurchonline.org Meets twice per month Friday Morning MOPS 9 am - Atrium Contact Lauren at mopsdyeram@faithchurchonline.org Meets twice per month

CONNECT ● WOMEN

Evening MOPS 6:30 pm - Room 144/145 Contact Cherilyn at eveningmops@faithchurchonline.org Meets twice per month

Women’s Bible Study Names of God Mondays, 9 am - Rm 144 Contact Liz at elizabethdocter@yahoo.com Meets weekly

Moms in the Middle (MITM) (Moms with 1st-12th graders) Tuesdays, 9:30 am - Room 144/145 Contact Christy at mitmdyer@faithchurchonline.org Meets twice per month

Card Connection Thursday, 6:30 pm - Rm 141 Contact Jeri darchsmom@gmail.com Meets the 1st Thursday to make cards for the Faith Church family.

Moms of Empty Nests (Moms with late high school to adult children) Mondays, 6:30 pm - Room 144/145 Contact Debbie at emptynests@faithchurchonline.org Meets twice per month

Courageous Love Monday, 7 pm - Garage Prayer Rm Contact Karyn at kjustice@faithchurchonline.org We are excited to begin our 2nd year of this confidential ministry which provides love, encouragement, support and hope to moms of LGBT children.

Meets the 3rd Monday Faith Stitchers Thursday, 1-4 pm - Room140/141 Christmas Celebration Dec 10, 1-3 pm - if you plan to come bring a finger food to share.

● MEN Prayer Group Wednesdays, 8 am Prayer Room This Men’s Prayer Group meets weekly to fellowship and pray for the cares and concerns of the Faith family.

Men’s Bible Study Saturdays, 6:30 am - The Gara-

Choir Monday, Dec 14, 7-8 pm Room 142/143 to sing Dec 19/20 Contact Jen at jwilson@faithchurchonline.org Young Adults (18-30 something) Contact Jenise at jporter@faithchurchonline.org We love being in community! Keep up with everything we are doing together: facebook.com/catalystfaith Interested in being connected in a mini-church for 18-30 somethings?

Contact Jenise at email above.

NWI Singles of Faith Tuesdays, 7-9 pm Meets at Faith Highland - Room 201 Contact Sandy Reitsma nwisinglesoffaith@yahoo.com One Marriage Groups Contact Gina at marriages@faithchurchonline.org.

One Marriage is available for you to get connected as a couple! Preparing for Marriage Classes are available twice per year. Enrich your Marriage by getting connected on Wednesdays at our discipleship night at the Dyer campus. In need of Repair? Check out faithchurchonline.org for more information.

Mini-Churches Contact Anne at acontreras@faithchurchonline.org If you are looking to get connected at Faith Church, a Mini-Church is a great place to start. Stop by the Welcome Center and pick up a list of groups that are gathering or check out our Group Finder on the Faith Church website at: faithchurchonline.org/connect/ mini-churches/join. ● STUDENTS Faith Students Middle School (6th-8th grade) Wednesdays, 6:30 pm - The Garage Contact John at jbenson@faithchurchonline.org Meets weekly High School (9th-12th grade) Sundays, 6-8:30 pm - The Garage Contact Tory at tpaino@faithchurchonline.org Meets weekly

Mark Your Calendars: ● Feb 12-14 Winter Retreat Students from all campuses will travel to Spring Hill in Evart, MI. ● CARE 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@faithchurchonline. org

Celebrate Recovery is open to everyone on Tuesday nights 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 Station Tuesdays, 6:45-9 pm Farm/Jungle Room Contact Beckie at bhayes&faithchurchonline.org Celebration Station is designed for kids 5 to 13 years old whose parents attend one of the Tuesday care groups. We hope to make Jesus the foundation of their lives, break cycles of dysfunction, and join their parents in forgiveness and healing.

Divorce Care Tuesdays, 7 pm - Clubhouse Room Contact Charlie at 219.374.6041 Meets weekly Faith Family Market Sundays, 8:30 am-12 noon Room 128 Contact Kelly at kellym0503700@aol.com The Market provides assistance to those who have grocery needs.

Open the 2nd & 4th Sunday Reflectors Sundays, 11 am-12 noon Rooms 140-146 These classrooms function similar to a Special Education Classroom.

Typical elements include: modified Bible lessons, crafts, games, singing, and other interactive activities.

Contact Vinnie at vadams@faithchurchonline.org Room 140/141 Children ages 3-12

Room 142-144 & 146 Teens/Adults (ages 13 & up)

Room 145 - Quiet Family Space is available during weekend services at Dyer. The service is streamed live through a television in a secluded living room available for families with special needs members that need a quiet, private space to worship.

Pass It On Hockey Sundays, 6:50 am at Homewood-Flossmoor Ice Arena Contact Carl at hockey@faithchurchonline.org Men of all ages welcome.

Meets weekly

Reflectors Respite Program Saturday, Dec 12, 9 am-noon This is a 3-hour program of fun activities for individuals with special needs of all ages (and their siblings). RSVP online at reflectorsministry.org.

● CLASSES & EVENTS

Reflectors Parent Support Group Saturday, Dec 12, 9:15 - 10:30 am This month’s meeting will be a breakfast hang-out at the Scrambled Diner.

We will meet at church, and then head over to the restaurant. RSVP online www.reflectorsministry.org.

Angels of Hope Gift Sort Come and serve as a family, with your Mini-Church or by yourself on Tuesday, Dec 8, 6-8 pm in the Atrium.

Christmas Worship Service Information for Reflectors Christmas Eve: Dec 23, 7 pm – Reflectors GOLD (kids) Worship Sunday, December 27 – NO Reflectors Worship Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. As always, the worship center, the Well, and the west hallway living rooms are always available and you are always welcome!

Fresh Hope Wednesdays, 7-8:30 pm Meets at the Highland Campus 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: faithchurchonline.org/connect/ care-ministry/mental-health or email freshhope@faithchurchonline.org. ● HEALTH & WELLNESS Faithfully Fit Monday, Wednesday & Friday 5:15-6:15 am - Atrium Contact Mary at mary.tambrini@trnty.edu or 708-650-2287. aerobic interval training fitness class 12.1 Running Club Saturdays, 7:30 am Faith Dyer - Atrium Contact Louie & Mary at cioe@sbcglobal.net Meets weekly

SERVE

Faith Kids 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 Bring hope to a local at-risk child by becoming a Kids Hope mentor. Mentors spend one hour with a specific child each week of the school year reading, playing games and being a “friend” to a child who needs a caring adult in his/her life. Make a difference in your community one relationship at a time. The Dyer campus serves the children of Bibich Elementary School. If you are interested or want to know more, contact Jennifer at jlerose@faithchurchonline.org.

G RO UP S & D I N N E R 5 : 4 5 | W O R S H I P 7 : 0 0 | G R O U P S 8:15 C H I L D C A R E P R OV I D E F O R D I N N E R & W O R S H I P

SERVE

Hammond WORSHIP

Hammond Academy of Science and Technology (H.A.S.T.) 33 Muenich Ct. Hammond, IN 46320 Hammond Arts Center (HAC) 5832 Hohman Avenue Hammond, IN 46320 FaithChurchHammond Service Time: Sunday, 10 am *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@faithchurchonline.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th Grade) Sunday, 10 am

CONNECT ● WOMEN

Faith Stitchers Thursday, 1 pm – HAC Contact Ginni at ginnit@hotmail.com Faith Stitchers gathers to crochet & knit baby blankets for PASS pregnancy care centers and scarves for Children’s Hunger Fund while we make new friends and share our lives with one another.

Meets the 4th Thursday ● MEN Bible Study Saturdays, 7-8:30 am - HAC Contact Bob at rjeenigenburg@gmail.com Meets the 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Sat ● ADULTS (Men & Women) Mini-Churches Contact Anne at acontreras@faithchurchonline.org If you are looking to get connected at Faith Church, a Mini-Church is a great place to start. Stop by the Welcome Center and pick up a list of groups that are gathering or check out our Group Finder on the Faith Church website at: faithchurchonline.org/connect/ mini-churches/join.

Mini-Church Sundays, 5-7 pm, Contact Mike at mhooker@faithchurchonline.org Mike and Alida Hooker have started a new mini-church in their home (11233 S St Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60628).The group will go deeper into the sermon and discuss how we can apply it to our lives.

Meets 1st & 3rd Sunday One Marriage Groups Contact Gina at marriages@faithchurchonline.org.

One Marriage is available for you to get connected as a couple! Preparing for Marriage Classes are available twice per year. Enrich your Marriage by getting connected on Wednesdays at our discipleship night at the Dyer campus. In need of Repair? Check out faithchurchonline.org for more information. ● CARE Prayer Ministry, Sundays, before and 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 Sundays, 11:30 am-1 pm - HAC Contact Lisa or Bob at blhberr@att.net The Market provides assistance to those in need of groceries and basic necessities.

Open the 1st & 3rd Sunday Celebrate Recovery Fridays, 7-9 pm - HAC 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

Faith Kids: Contact Bethany at bethanys@faithchurchonline.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.

Set Up/Tear Down: Contact Sarah at ssmith@faithchurchonline.org Consider joining the team that helps make it all happen on Sunday mornings by literally setting up the Worship Center and tearing it down following the service.

Kids Hope USA Bring hope to a local at-risk child by becoming a Kids Hope mentor. Mentors spend one hour with a specific child each week of the school year reading, playing games and being a “friend” to a child who needs a caring adult in his/ her life. Make a difference in your community one relationship at a time.The Hammond Campus serves the children of Kenwood Elementary School. If you are interested or want to know more, contact Jennifer LeRose at jlerose@ faithchurchonline.org

● CARE

highland WORSHIP 8910 Grace Street Highland, IN 46322 FaithChurchHighland Service Times Sunday, 9 & 11 am | 5 pm * Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@faithchurchonline.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th Grade) Sunday, 9 & 11 am

CONNECT ● WOMEN

Women’s Bible Study - I Samuel Thursdays, 9:30 am - Great Room Contact Jean at 219-922-8113 Leader: Judy Nearpass Meets 1st & 3rd Thursday MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Tuesdays, 9-11:30 am – Great Room Contact Larissa at 219-314-8704/ mopshigh@faithchurchonline.org MOPS is a group where moms of infants to kindergartners come to connect and grow with other moms in the same stage.

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday ● ADULTS (Men & Women) NWI Singles of Faith Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm - Room 201 Contact Sandy Reitsma at nwisinglesoffaith@yahoo.com This ministry welcomes single and single again Christian adults. We seek to serve adults who are single, widowed or divorced who are looking for like-minded Christians to share their beliefs and values, growing in Christ.

Meets weekly Mini-Churches Contact Anne at acontreras@faithchurchonline.org If you are looking to get connected at Faith Church, a Mini-Church is a great place to start. Stop by the

Welcome Center and pick up a list of groups that are gathering or check out our Group Finder on the Faith Church website at: faithchurchonline.org/connect/ mini-churches/join.

One Marriage Groups Contact Gina at marriages@faithchurchonline.org.

One Marriage is available for you to get connected as a couple! Preparing for Marriage Classes are available twice per year. Enrich your Marriage by getting connected on Wednesdays at our discipleship night at the Dyer campus. In need of Repair? Check out faithchurchonline.org for more information.

Highland Mini-Church Sundays, 5 pm Contact Rich Krooswyk at rich@krooswyk.com Follow-up discussion on the topic of the morning message.

Meets 2nd & 4th Sunday ● STUDENTS 6th-8th Grade Sundays, 6-8 pm Contact Larissa at larissa.vanderpol@gmail.com Meets 2nd & 4th Sunday Friday, Dec 4—Christmas Party 7-9 pm at Faith Highland (8910 Grace Street) Sunday, Dec 13—Mr. Christmas Tree Pageant at Faith Dyer, 6-8 pm 9th-12th Grade Sundays, 6-8 pm-Youth House by Faith Highland. Contact Deanne at vanrosendale@gmail.com Meets 1st & 3rd Sunday Coffee House Tuesdays, 7 pm Panera in Schererville High school students informally meet the 2nd & 4th Tuesday Students, Mark Your Calendars: • Feb 12-14, Winter Retreat Students from all campuses will travel to Spring Hill in Evart, MI.

Friendship Tuesdays, 7 pm – Great Room 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!

Contact Vinnie at vadams@faithchurchonline.org or 219-864-0300 x197.

NA-The Grace Street Recovery Meeting of Narcotics Anonymous Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm - 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, 10-11:30 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 This group is both for individuals who have a mental health challenge AND their loved ones (family members, close friends). For more information, visit: faithchurchonline.org/ connect/care-ministry/mental-health or email freshhope@faithchurchonline.org. ● HEALTH & WELLNESS Faith & Fitness Class Mon, Wed & Fri, 9-10 am Meets in the Great Room Contact Karen Pobereyko at 219.616.0187 Weight training for 50+ Bring your own weights. $3 per session Aerobic Class Mon, Wed & Fri, 10:15-11am Meet in the Great Room Contact Karen at 219.616.0187

SCHERERVILLE WORSHIP The Gym at Campagna Academy 7403 Cline Avenue Schererville, IN 46375 FaithChurchSchererville Service Time Sunday, 9 & 11 am * Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@faithchurchonline.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th Grade) Sunday, 9 & 11 am Join us in the Community Cafe after each service for coffee and refreshments.

CONNECT ● Adults (Men & Women) Mini-Churches Contact Anne at acontreras@faithchurchonline.org If you are looking to get connected at Faith Church, a Mini-Church is a great place to start. Stop by the Welcome Center and pick up a list of groups that are gathering or check out our Group Finder on the Faith Church website at: faithchurchonline.org/connect/ mini-churches/join.

One Marriage Groups Contact Gina at marriages@faithchurchonline.org.

One Marriage is available for you to get connected as a couple! Preparing for Marriage Classes are available twice per year. Enrich your Marriage by getting connected on Wednesdays at our discipleship night at the Dyer campus. In need of Repair? Check out faithchurchonline.org for more information.

● STUDENTS Faith Students - Meets at Dyer Campus Mark Your Calendars: ● Winter Retreat, Feb 12-14 @ Spring Hill in Evart, MI High School (9th-12th grade) Sundays, 6-8:30 pm - The Garage Contact Tory at tpaino@faithchurchonline.org Meets weekly Middle School (6th-8th grade) Wednesdays, 6:30 pm - The Garage Contact John at jbenson@faithchurchonline.org Meets weekly ● CARE Prayer Ministry Contact Jan Krediet at loveart234@att.net Meets before and after each Sunday service in the Prayer Room located in the Worship Center.

Celebrate Recovery Tuesdays, 7 pm Meets in the Garage at Faith Dyer Fridays, 7 pm Meets at the Hammond Arts Center (5832 Hohman, Hammond, IN 46324) Meets weekly

SERVE Technical Arts & Worship Team Looking for a place to serve?

We need you to help set up the gym at 4 pm on Saturdays. You’d serve once a month, giving an hour of your time on a Saturday night.

We also need help tearing down after the 11 am service. This is a great way to make a difference!

Our Worship team is also looking for instrumentalists and vocalists.

To connect, contact Dee at dwilson@faithchurchonline.org

Faith Kids 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 or contact Selena at srich@faithchurchonline.org.

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 9:30am to lift up our worship service, leaders, campus & region.

Service Time Sunday, 10 am *Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@faithchurchonline.org Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th Grade) Sunday, 10 am The Vine bookstore and Community Café are open before (9:30-10 am) and after the worship service.

CONNECT ● WOMEN

Women’s Bible Study Tuesdays, 7 pm Contact Jana at janajo8654@sbcglobal.net Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday MOPs Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Thursday, Nov 5 & 19, 6-8 pm Contact Kim at valpomops@faithchurchonline.org Meets twice a month ● MEN Men of Faith Saturdays, 7 am Upstairs Adult Classroom Contact Bob at bob4gvn@gmail.com Community where men can come together to pray, read God’s Word, and journey through life’s struggles and celebrations together.

Meets weekly

● ADULTS (Men & Women) Mini-Churches Contact Anne at acontreras@faithchurchonline.org If you are looking to get connected at Faith Church, a Mini-Church is a great place to start. Stop by the Welcome Center and pick up a list of groups that are gathering or check out our Group Finder on the Faith Church website at: faithchurchonline.org/connect/ mini-churches/join.

One Marriage Groups Contact Gina at marriages@faithchurchonline.org.

One Marriage is available for you to get connected as a couple! Preparing for Marriage Classes are available twice per year. Enrich your Marriage by getting connected on Wednesdays at our discipleship night at the Dyer campus. In need of Repair? Check out faithchurchonline.org for more information. ● STUDENTS Contact Eric at jabaay3901@comcast.net Watch the weekend program for upcoming events. ● CARE Reflectors Ministry Sundays, 10 am Contact Brent at alpsjack1@gmail.com Kids Worship buddies and prayer partners are available to help make church more accessible to those with special needs 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.

Meets 2nd & 4th Sunday

Friendship Groups Thursdays, 6:30-8 pm Contact Brent Bowgren at alpsjack@gmail.com Watch the weekend program for details. You can also check the Faith’s website at faithchurchonline.org/ connect/adult/special needs. When a new schedule is available, it will be posted here. ● CLASSES & EVENTS First Sunday Lunch - Sunday, Dec 6 Mark Your Calendar for next month: First Sunday Lunch will be on Sunday, Jan 3. Please bring a side dish or dessert to share.

SERVE

Faith Kids 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 & more information at faithchurchkids.org, at the Welcome Center, or contact Jaime at jthompson@faithchurchonline.org or Ami at aatchison@faithchurchonline.org.

Open Arms Women’s Shelter – The Shelter will soon have its own facility for housing so they will not be needing our building. They will, however, still need volunteers to help run the program. See Pastor Brad if you are interested in being part of this ministry.

Other serving teams looking for additional help include: Technical Arts Frontline Prayer Team The Vine bookstore If interested in serving in any of these areas, go to the Welcome Center for more information or contact Pastor Brad at bhaitsma@faithchurchonline.org.

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