ISSUE 7 VO LU M E 1 J A N - M AY 2 01 8 1
CONTENTS 3 Faith Church Vision Statement
22 Beecher
4 Who are Josh & Amanda Mielcarek?
23 Cedar Lake
7 Looking Back, Looking Forward
26 Dyer
11 Importance of Discipleship
29 Highland
12 Short Term Teams Recap 2017
31 Munster
16 What is Gospel Alliance
32 Schererville
20 Care & Connections 21 Santo Domingo Update
Interested in getting a pic on the cover? Email Danielle at daniellet@WeAreFaith.org
R E S TO R I N G A N D TRANSFORMING T H E W O R L D ONE RELATIONSHIP AT A TIME
Faith Church believes all followers of Christ are called to a higher purpose - that as “salt and light� we have been called to make a difference in the world. We should be actively engaged in building relationships inside and outside of the church-deeper relationships with God and other Faith Church members certainly, but also with coworkers neighbors and friends outside the church community. In these relationships we display and share the transforming love of Jesus Christ.
FAITH FAMILY H IG H L I G H T J O S H & A M A N D A M I E LC A R E K
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WHAT’S YOUR NAME? Josh and Amanda Mielcarek
WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Highland, Indiana
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET CONNECTED TO FAITH CHURCH? Josh’s cousins are members of Faith and we have a few mutual friends who have gone to services.
WHAT HAVE YOU SEEN GOD DO AT FAITH CHURCH? He has brought people together of all different walks of life and we have made great connections with them inside and outside of Church.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT THE WORSHIP SERVICES? We enjoy the music and the message most of all. The music and the message are easy to relate to at our stage in life. We always leave feeling a connection.
WHERE DO YOU SERVE AT FAITH CHURCH? Josh is on the Worship Team. He is a singer.
HOW DO YOU CONNECT WITH OTHERS AT YOUR CAMPUS? We have created great friendships with a few couples whom we sit with at services and also get together outside of Church.
WHAT HAVE YOU SEEN GOD DO IN YOUR LIFE? God has blessed us in all aspects of our lives. From growing our relationship into a Marriage, to making our future as bright as it can be as we ventured into owning our first home and many accomplishments along the way. We can not wait to see what God has in store for our future together.
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2017 was another exciting year in the life of Faith Church as we grew in numerous ways and through many different channels. The size of our church family grew as we added 255 new members and baptized 84 children. Included among these new members are 112 people who publicly professed their faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior for the first time, with 28 of these youth and adults being baptized upon their profession of faith. We also added new members to our church family as Trinity Reformed Church in Munster, Indiana, merged into Faith Hammond to form our new Munster Campus. Adding this new location was another big way in which we saw growth this year. Our facilities have grown as well with much work happening at our Highland campus (video system upgrade, small groups room, preparation for addition in 2018) and at our Dyer campus (family and preschool bathrooms). The Reach Project, which concluded at the end of 2017, made these local physical projects possible, and it also built a vocational school in Brazil to reach people far from us with the good news of Christ.
84 CHILDREN 28 YOUTH & ADULTS
BAPTIZED
255 NEW
MEMBERS
Our sermons this past year helped us grow in many areas of our Christian walk, ranging from the start of the year when we explored activities and practices in our “Life Hacks” series, to the importance of “Hope” that we saw in our Advent series.
112 PROESSIONS
LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD
T h e
OF FAITH
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“Scattered” series helped us grow in our understanding of mission, teaching us that we can be missionaries wherever God takes us each day. We also grew in generosity through our “Momentum” series during which time hundreds of people went through Financial Peace University at our campuses. We saw what God teaches us about himself through Bible stories with animals and had a lot of fun together as an intergenerational community in our summer “Animal Kingdom” series when our elementary school kids joined us for summer worship. Our “Questions from Jesus” series helped us be a place in which it was safe to ask questions as we received many from our congregation; questions were answered on our blog and in our weekend services. Another highlight was Joni Eareckson Tada who spoke to our church in August. Joni’s words and life stories helped us to continue to grow in our heart and challenged us to include people with special needs and unique life challenges, particularly through our Reflectors and Overcomers ministries. Growth happened in events beyond our weekend worship as well. The year featured a great retreat for a couple hundred of our middle and high school students, a fantastic gathering of women for a great speaker and night of worship (Ladies Night Out), and a Friday-Saturday men’s event (GRIT). Once again, we hosted the Global Leadership Summit where we invited people from our community to grow as leaders and enabled the development of our own lay and staff leaders as well. Good weather on Thanksgiving helped make the Gobbler Classic 5k a great event this year with close to $8,500 raised for food pantries. Teams from our church served at a Joni and Friends camp this summer, made two trips to Haiti and went on our first to Brazil; the men, women and youth who went on these trips both blessed those they served and also grew in their walk with Christ by being His hands and feet in the world. In addition to these special events and series, there is also growth that happens week in and week out in our ministries. Each week in Faith Kids the children of our church family worship at their level and learn about how Jesus wants to be their forever friend. In the Dominican Republic, David Mojica continues to reach out to disconnected people to connect them to Faith Santo Domingo. They now have 70 people in worship each week and six small groups. They also continue to reach out to hundreds of kids in the school each week and prepare to launch a second site. Here in the States, we see new small groups and Bible studies forming throughout the year, new leaders emerging and new people getting plugged into the church community. As we look back on God’s grace and faithfulness to us in 2017, we also look forward to what God is going to do in and through our church in 2018. We are planning some sermon series and events we think God will use to help us continue to reach people and grow as followers of Christ. We also know God works above and beyond what we have planned. Please give Him thanks for what He has done and ask Him to do even more in the coming year. Ask God to reveal to you how He can grow you and use you to grow others this year.
BY: BRIAN DENNERT
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IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLESHIP
BY: BEN KAMPMEIER What does it mean to be a Christian? Maybe you’ve heard that the term essentially means “little Christ.” It’s an identification given to the people associated with Jesus: His disciples as the Bible calls them. Acts 11:26 tells us it was “in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” The early church experienced this identification by association, and the terminology still sticks, thousands of years later. Ideally, staying true to the idea of being “little Christs” means being a Christian is to have something of Jesus inside of us. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed I adopt the mannerisms of the people I love the most and spend the most time with - people like my wife, my friends, my coworkers, etc. Maybe you’ve had the same moment I’ve had - when you do something or say something you know for certain is not something ‘you do.’ No, this thing, this mannerism, whatever it is, you picked it up from someone else! Honestly, when I realize this, it feels a little embarrassing and kind of endearing all at once. Something of this person you love and spend a lot of time with (or struggle to love because you have to spend a lot of time with them) is in you! What’s even more interesting is if
you have that moment around anybody who knows both you and the person whose mannerisms you’ve adopted because, well, they can tell! They’ll say something like, “Wow! When you laughed just now, it sounded a lot like…” That is identification by association. It’s not a secret the term “Christian” can also carry some baggage for people. Sadly, not all selfproclaimed Christians are “little Christs.” Most people who know anything about Jesus are quick to point that out. To truly be a Christian means to do way more than wear a label. It is to live life in a place so close to the person of Jesus that we adopt His mannerisms - talking like He talked, caring for who He cared for, living as He lived and walking like He walked! This helps to explain another early name for Christianity, “The Way.” When Jesus walked the Earth, He proclaimed He was “the way, the truth and the life,” (John 14:6), the only path to salvation. To be Christian is to have our whole lives transformed, not only in what we say or think, but in how we act and live. True Christians, “little Christs,” carry Jesus’ mannerisms. They have a faith not just of profession but also of practice. There’s a complicated tension about all of this. Identification by association doesn’t mean what we do necessarily makes us Christians (only Jesus can do that for us). I can’t start emulating everything my friend does and become that friend, right? Rather, being Christian defines for us what we do. Jesus always called His disciples by saying “follow me.” If He’s called you to follow Him, then it is by the free gift of His grace He has delivered you by His own death and resurrection, and it means you can never live the same way again! During our Lenten season, while we prepare to celebrate the finished work of Christ, we want to focus on what it means to be “little Christs.” We want to move closer to His life and to adopt the mannerisms of Jesus, finding that we who have died with Christ will also live with Him (Romans 6:8), both in this life and in the next! Join us for “The Way” as we grow not only to profess our faith, but to practice it as well.
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SHORT TERM
MISSION TEAMS RECAP 2017 Every year Faith Church sends short term teams to serve alongside our global partners. It is always intriguing to see how these teams form and how God places specific people on specific trips to serve together for a specific season. In 2017 Faith had the privilege to send two teams to serve with God’s Littlest Angels (GLA) orphanage in Haiti, and it was our very first trip to serve alongside The First Presbyterian Church of Manaus (IPM) in Brazil. This is our fourth year sending teams to serve at GLA in Haiti. Every time a team goes, they return with a new sense of who God is and how He’s moving through the lives of dedicated volunteers who serve year round at this beautiful orphanage in the mountains of Haiti. As the orphanage continues to build on new property, our teams had the privilege of assisting in a big move of the children and their belongings from the main house to their new property. Many babies were rocked, prayed for, sung to, and the children shared in Bible teaching. While there is much to celebrate this year at GLA with the completion of some key components of their new property, the work isn’t yet complete. This fall, our team had the opportunity to spend time at a neighboring ministry and witnessed the immense poverty in Haiti and lack of basic needs such as food and simple healthcare. We continue to be in prayer for our global neighbors, to find nourishment both physically and spiritually.
This was our very first year sending a team to serve alongside IPM in Brazil. We were so excited to finally get Faith Church feet on the ground to see the work we’ve been able to accomplish through the Reach Project. The team spent the majority of their week traveling on a medical boat to various villages along the Amazon River. At each village, they were able to assist the physician on the boat with some basic medical care, and also spend time in the villages hosting children’s VBS, praying with villagers, and inviting them to hear the gospel. Through their work, one village leader came forward and shared he would like IPM to build a church in their village! It is certainly true the harvest is plentiful! The team also had the opportunity to spend a couple days in Intepeceau, which is the village where Faith Church is helping build a vocational school. The team was able to paint most of the class rooms and participated in a celebration service hosted by the local missionaries, Ana and Marta. We have much to celebrate and pray for as we anticipate continuing our partnership in the years ahead. We continue to seek out opportunities to serve alongside our global partners both within the U.S. and around the world. We look forward to what God has in store for Faith Church on mission and seeing who He may call to serve on, give to, or pray for a team in the next year.
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WHAT IS WHAT IS THE GOSPEL ALLIANCE? Faith Church is a vibrant, gospel-centered place where people are loved and encouraged to grow in their walk with Jesus. If you’ve been around Faith for any amount of time, we hope this has been your experience. What you may or may not know is Faith is part of a larger group of churches, a denomination called The Reformed Church in America (RCA). The RCA has been in existence for more than 350 years; it’s one of the oldest denominations in the nation. In recent years, Faith and others have become concerned that the RCA seems to have lost its bearing. There is a growing segment holding beliefs and practices contrary to the Word of God. These concerns have been brewing for some time, and many in the RCA are troubled. Churches have been leaving the denomination, which has been in decline since the 1960’s. Others have been vocal and tirelessly working for change. The future of Faith Church (and other churches) within the RCA seems to be in question. Early last year, 30 individuals representing different churches within the denomination met in Denver to seek God’s heart on these issues. They are passionate about renewal and revival, and asked challenging questions, What is the right next step? To leave? Or to work harder for change?
A NEW PATH This group prayed as they struggled with the question, “How do we work toward renewal in the denomination in a positive way?” God answered, and the vision for the Gospel Alliance emerged. The Gospel Alliance Leadership Team is comprised of five people, including Faith’s Senior Pastor Bob Bouwer and Communications Director Karla Weemhoff. An Advisory Board was also created, which has approximately 30 leaders of ethnic diversity, reflecting the direction the Gospel Alliance wants to go. Today, more than 500 individuals, pastors, staff and lay leaders make up the membership of the Gospel Alliance. The Gospel Alliance is united in the goal of encouraging the denomination to return to its reformed roots and a commitment to the Word of God. Many in the denomination have been feeling lost, without a “sense of home” for a long time. They were no longer comfortable with the RCA’s direction. A high value in the Gospel Alliance is a sense of community and camaraderie, based on 2 Corinthians 8:23 where Paul talks about his coworker, Titus, “As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker for your benefit. And as for our brothers, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ.” The Gospel Alliance also provides a united voice to the RCA. Instead of individuals or churches challenging
direction, now there is one strong voice of renewal speaking to the denomination. Karla Weemhoff shares her excitement about this new initiative, “The Gospel Alliance is a spirit-led gathering of leaders who are seeking to live out the Gospel and discover a place in the RCA to call ‘home.’ I am proud of Faith Church as we take part in the leadership of this group, which wants to reflect the body of Christ as a diverse mix of women and men of all ages and ethnicities.”
A FIRST TIME GATHERING This past September, the Gospel Alliance held its first Gathering, which took place at Faith Dyer. It was a time for people to hear from the Leadership Team, learn more about the Gospel Alliance’s vision and be encouraged in their walk with Christ. More than 200 people attended. Some people arrived skeptical but left feeling peace about this new group forming within the denomination. One lay leader from a rural church community shared, “Because of the direction of the RCA, we have not been able to find a pastor. No one wants to jump into a denomination in such deep conflict.” At the Gathering, he found a community and a network of resources; he left no longer feeling alone. Here is a sampling of comments received from those who attended the September Gathering: 16
PRESTON SPRINKLE COMING TO FAITH CHURCH
“Right from the start we were given HOPE for the RCA.” “The Gospel Alliance conference exceeded all of my expectations! I left very encouraged and hopeful about what Jesus is doing through His church in these challenging times.” “Finally, a gathering on what we are for, as opposed to what we are against!” “Please conduct a continual campaign of getting out what The Gospel Alliance is all about to every RCA and CRC church.”
WANT TO LEARN MORE? The next Gathering will take place October 9 & 10 at Faith Dyer. In the meantime, visit the Gospel Alliance website to learn more and watch videos from last year’s Gathering, thegospelalliance.com. Will this group be successful in turning the direction of the denomination back to truth and purity in following God’s Word closely? God knows the answer. But if it comes to a point of “no return,” a structure has been established to connect those who no longer agree with the direction of the RCA. Though not the first choice, a way is now in place to make a fresh start as an independent Gospel Alliance. Please pray for our brothers and sisters throughout the RCA. For God to work in miraculous ways to bring the denomination back to the truth is the strong desire of those involved. Pray, too, for the leadership of the Gospel Alliance, that they will have clear discernment as they move forward in love.
Faith Church will welcome guest speaker Preston Sprinkle the weekend of April 14/15. Preston is a professor, speaker and a New York Times bestselling author. He earned a PhD in New Testament from Aberdeen University in Scotland (2007), and he’s been a professor of theology at Cedarville University (OH), Nottingham University (England), and Eternity Bible College (CA and ID). Preston is currently a full-time author, speaker and teacher. Yet, his dream in life is to become the next bass player for U2 or perhaps a professional surfer (neither of which he is very good at). He has been described as passionate about approaching topics that everyone wants to know about, but no one wants to talk about. Topics like sexuality, violence, alcohol, hell, and what it means to follow a Jewish prophet-king who was executed for treason. Preston spoke at September’s Gospel Alliance Gathering. Pastor Bob reflects on Preston’s words, “I have never heard a better speaker on the issue of human sexuality - he balances grace and truth and most of all, love.” A few of his books will be available in the Vine in April; checkout page 15 of The Paper.
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FAITH SANTO DOMINGO UPDATE BY: DAVID MOJICA Grace & Peace! God continues to show His faithfulness! The school where we gathered for worship couldn’t host us any longer since the Deparment. of Education slated this school as an accelerated GED site. That is, instead of normally having GED classes on Saturdays, this site will now hold Sunday classes as well. We are now worshipping at a small commercial space in Villa Mella, Santo Domingo North. This is a good challenge to have since we are going on three years without a “home church” and it’s time to put down deeper roots to establish ourselves as an anchor church in a more visible site. We are spreading the Word and will start to evangelize all areas in close proximity to our new site. This entire region is ripe for a gospel explosion since the growth of the city is expanding in this direction (over 1.2 million residents live in Santo Domingo North), and there still remains some available land where an anchor church could be built. We have made a firm commitment to be a church that is active during the week, ministering to the needs of people and not just open 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. And we will continue to stay active in the school where we formerly met for worship. We continue to pray for God to send us gospel partners for greater Kingdom impact and to spread a church planting movement anchored in public schools. To date, we have at least four gospel partners very interested in joining these efforts to plant in public schools. I would just add that we are ministering to about 170 kids through our Saturday programming at a local school site, Los Rios, and that we are on target to launch a plant at this site in early 2018. We are reaching out to parents as well, and the reception there is great. We recently connected with over 225 parents at an event that both the school and our ministry organized for Family Day, and there was genuine excitement around the impact of our Saturday program. We were also instrumental in feeding over 300 people for Family Day through local donations. Plans are to kick-off bi-monthly worship at this new school in January. Please note, our Saturday program at our new church planting site (Public School Republic of Costa Rica in Los Rios, Santo Domingo) consists of the following classes: Bible, English as a second language, dance, pantomime, and sports--soccer, volleyball and basketball. We also try to give the 170+ kids under our program a snack. In addition to this program, we also hired a choir director who is doing a great job with about 35 kids on Tuesdays. This choir has performed out of the school and won 4th place in a district-wide competition. This served as a huge morale booster for kids living in such vulnerable communities. Please keep praying for us as we venture in faith to impact this new community. We continue to ramp up with our small groups. We have six running strong, and we recently baptized five
believers. Again, we are branding our first plant as a satellite/ campus of Faith Church, and any work coming from this satellite, in partnership with local leaders, will be designated as a church plant. In the case of any new church plants in schools, we would make every attempt to stay in those sites for 3-5 years, unless the work grows rapidly and becomes self-sustaining to the point that the new work could rent out its own space. We are also looking at two potential mission sites in the island – Barahona (3 hours south) and Puerto Plata (3 hours north)- as real possibilities for planting in partnership with local leaders. I visited Puerto Plata in November to gather with old friends and to discern God’s direction in any ministry partnership. I left impressed and will continue to pray and stay in conversation on any gospel alliance in the northern part of the island. I think there is genuine interest and we would continue to discern God’s move in the first quarter of 2018. With regards to Barahona, explosive things are happening there. During a short mission trip there from our church, many came to Christ and recently we heard that a local lady is donating land for us to build a church. We need to visit there again to see if things line up with our vision and to see how the Lord would provide local leaders. Please note, we are in conversation with Pastor Bob and other Faith Church leaders to organize two visits in 2018: the first is a visit to launch a worship experience interchange between both campuses this spring, and the second would be a short mission trip in the fall. May the joys and peace of Advent be to you and to all of our beautiful church family!
CARE & CONNECTIONS ALL CAMPUSES INVITED CARE 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 | Faith Munster 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. 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/Care & Support/Mental Health). 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 Wednesdays | Faith Dyer 5:45-6:45 PM Dinner & Small Group 7:00 PM Worship 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. Preparing for Marriage is offered twice per year. Detailed information about weddings can be found on WeAreFaith.org (Connect-Events & Classes-Weddings). Marriage Enrichment is offered every Wednesday night at the Dyer campus. See Dyer page for dates and times of classes.
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, 8 AM | Faith Dyer (December-March) Saturdays, 7 AM | Erie Lackawanna Trail, Highland (on Kennedy under Ridge Road viaduct) (April through November) 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. Monday, 6:30 PM Beecher Campus Contact Mary at panozzo117@comcast.net Meets the 3rd Monday of the month 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 Sundays, 2 PM Faith Munster Contact Ginni at ginnit@hotmail.com Faith Stitchers gathers to crochet and knit baby & toddler blankets for a local women’s shelter, and provides hats and scarves for the people of Hammond. Meets the 3rd Sunday, year-round.
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BEECHER PASTOR’S NOTE
We’d be honored to have you and your family join us on Sunday in one of our identical worship services at 9 & 11 AM. Age-appropriate worship for kids from infant-grade 5 also takes place during each service. Faith Beecher is a place where we celebrate life in Christ and worship God through song and sound biblical teaching. We also strive to make known that “church” not only happens when we’re gathered, but also as we scatter throughout the week to compassionately serve the town of Beecher and our surrounding communities. It doesn’t matter if you’ve gone to church as long as you can remember or are just checking it out for the very first time; there is a place for you to join us on this mission! Come as you are and we’ll learn together about the truth, love and grace of Jesus Christ. Pastor Nathan Prairie
WORSHIP
CONNECT
201 E Church Road Beecher, IL 60401 (708) 946-2545
● WOMEN
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 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/Resource Center.
Card Connection Monday, 6:30 PM Contact Mary at panozzo117@comcast.net Meets the 3rd Monday to make cards for the Faith Beecher family. No meeting in March Last meeting for the season, May 21
Women’s Daytime Bible Study Respectable Sins | Psalms Tuesdays, 1-2:30 PM Contact Ann at asmit@WeAreFaith.org or Judy Kutz at judykutz@gmail.com Stitchin’ Sisters Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday Tuesday, 9:30 AM Last meeting for the season, May 22 Contact Marietta Koster (708) 258-6450 or Women’s Evening Bible Study lkmkkos12@att.net Discover Hebrews Meets 1st Tuesday Wednesdays, 7-8:30 PM Last meeting for the season, May 1 Contact Barb at bennbarb2@gmail.com ● MEN Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday Last meeting for the season, May 9 Men’s Bible/Book Study Contact Bob DeYoung at MomsNation backhoe1957@gmail.com For a list of meeting dates, visit Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday momsnation.org. Last meeting for the season, May 16 MOPs - Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Thursdays, 9-11 AM Contact Megan mopsbchr@WeAreFaith.org Last meeting for the season, May 3 MITM - Moms in the Middle (Moms of School-Age Children) Fridays, 9-11 AM Contact Wendi Hanegraff at mitmbchr@WeAreFaith.org Last meeting for the season, May 11
● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 20 ● STUDENTS Faith Beecher Students Contact Scott at smattingly@WeAreFaith.org
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Meets every Friday night Middle School (6th-8th grade) 6-7:30 PM High School (9th-12th grade) 7-8:30 PM Last meeting of the season, May 25 Step Up Night - all 5th graders are welcome to join us. Faith Students Retreat 6-12th Graders March 2-4, 2018 Springhill Camp - Evart, MI $300 Feb 2 - 16 Register at WeAreFaith.org/students ● CARE Faith Family Market Thursdays, 6-7 PM (No appointment needed) Contact Stephanie at StephWiater@gmail.com Open 1st & 3rd Thursday each month See page 20 for additional care groups.
● 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) Wednesday, Feb 28, 6:30-9 PM Wednesday, May 16, 6:30-9 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Wednesday, Mar 14, 6:30-9 PM Wednesday, May 30, 6:30-9 PM Join dates are May 6 & July 22. Register online at WeAreFaith.org/Join or get a paper registration form from the Community/Connections board.
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.
Faith Family Market Stephanie at StephWiater@gmail.com Faith Kids (Infant-5th grade) Leah at lprairie@WeAreFaith.org or Rachel at rmalkowski@WeAreFaith.org Faith Students (6th-12th grade) Scott at smattingly@WeAreFaith.org Frontline Team Frank at basile.f@sbcglobal.net Moms Nation (MOPS/Moms in the Middle) Christie at cpostma@WeAreFaith.org Prayer Team Bob at backhoe1957@gmail.com Worship - Are you an instrumentalist or vocalist interested in serving? Scott at smattingly@WeAreFaith.org Tech - Interested in helping with media, lights or sound during our worship services? Nick McCraw at nmccraw@WeAreFaith.org
CEDAR LAKE PASTOR’S NOTE Friends,
Welcome to Faith Church. I am excited you are here! It is our hope as you join us on the journey through life, you find places of deep connection with Jesus and others in this community. It has personally been life giving for me to be a part of the Faith Church family for the last 20 years. My wife, Karla, and I and our four kids are living proof that ordinary, imperfect people can belong in this community of believers. If you have some “baggage” in your past, are dealing with some issues or even just trying to figure out your next steps in life, Faith Church welcomes you! As we get to know each other, it is our desire the relationships that are formed are meaningful and caring. There are many ways to connect through small groups and serving, and we would be glad to assist you in any way we can. I look forward to meeting you! Pastor Dave 22
WORSHIP 6729 W. 133rd Ave Cedar Lake, IN 46303 (219) 374-6309 Office Hours: Mon: 8 AM - 12 PM Tues, Thurs: 8 AM - 4 PM Fri: 8 AM - 2 PM If you need assistance on Wednesdays, please call Sue at Faith Dyer, (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 Reflectors Worship (Disability Ministry) Sun, 11 AM
CONNECT ● WOMEN Women’s Bible Study A Woman Who Doesn’t Quit Tuesdays, 7-9 PM Contact Dea at deamt@sbcglobal.net Meets every other Tuesday Begins Feb 6 MomsNation For a list of meeting dates, visit momsnation.org. MOPs - Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Thursdays, 9-11 AM Contact Michelle or Lauren at mopscl@WeAreFaith.org MITM - Moms in the Middle (Moms of school-age children) Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 AM Contact Michelle at mitmcl@WeAreFaith.org Praying Moms Ministry Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 AM | Atrium Contact Denise at tdkuiper1@comcast.net Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesdays ● 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 12 Ordinary Men: How the Master Shaped His Disciples for Greatness and What He Wants to Do with You by John MacArthur Wednesdays, 6:30 PM Contact Matt at mdlenting@sbcglobal.net Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday
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
Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 20
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.
● STUDENTS
See page 20 for additional care groups.
Faith Cedar Lake Students Wednesdays, 6:30-8 PM Contact Jeremy at jmelf@WeAreFaith.org
● CLASSES & EVENTS
Middle School 6:30-8 PM Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday
Rummage Sale Saturday, March 10, 8 AM-1 PM All proceeds will go toward children’s scholarships to Spring Hill Day Camp. For more information contact Ronda at RHuisman@WeAreFaith.org or go to www.springhillcamps.com
● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN)
SMALL GROUPS
New Small Groups are forming. If you are interested in being a part of a small group, please contact Kristen Fennema at fennema@att.net
High School 6:30-8 PM Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesday Faith Students Retreat 6-12th Graders March 2-4, 2018 Springhill Camp - Evart, MI $300 Feb 2 - 16 Register at WeAreFaith.org/students 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.
Prayer Gathering 2nd Wednesday, 7 PM
Baptism Class Sunday, Mar 18, 10:15-10:45 AM Register at WeAreFaith.org/baptism 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, Feb 20, 6:30-9 PM Sunday, Apr 29, 2-4:30 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Tuesday, March 13, 6:30-9 PM Sunday, May 20, 2-4:30 PM Join date is May 6 & July 22 Register at WeAreFaith.org/Join
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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 Family Market Beckie at bhayes@WeAreFaith.org Faith Kids (infant-5th grade) Ronda at rhuisman@WeAreFaith.org Faith Students (Middle School, High School) Jeremy at jmelf@WeAreFaith.org Frontline Team (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 Technical Arts Angela at abultema@WeAreFaith.org Worship Team Jason at jasons@WeAreFaith.org
DYER PASTOR’S NOTE When I started serving Faith over 25 years ago, we were a family of six. My wife Laurie, our four children and their spouses, and grandchildren now number 16. In comparison, Faith Church has grown from one church with 250 people to now having seven sites with thousands of wonderful people. God is a God of fruitfulness and reproduction. Laurie and I have found joy in every season of life. We are currently “empty nesters” which allows us to cherish our loving grandchildren in all their wonder. This season also provides unique opportunities for us to serve God’s world in its beauty and in its gospel impact. God is moving in mighty ways at Faith Church and I am excited to see where He will lead! Pastor Bob Bouwer 24
WORSHIP 100 W 81st Avenue Dyer, IN 46311 (219) 864-0300 Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM-4 PM 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 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. Card Connection Thursday, 6:30 PM | 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 | Rooms 140/141 Contact Sharon at sharontlc756@hotmail.com We knit & crochet for those in need. Meets the 2nd Thursday Women’s Prayer Group Monday, 11 AM | Room 144 Contact Julie at msgoodynuf@aol.com Meets weekly MomsNation For list of meeting dates, visit momsnation.org. MOPs- Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant - Kindergarten) Thursday Morning MOPs 9-11:15 AM | Atrium Contact Sarah or Melissa at mopsdyeram@WeAreFaith.org
Friday Morning MOPs 9-11:15 AM | Atrium Contact Sarah or Melissa at mopsdyeram@WeAreFaith.org Thursday Evening MOPs 6:30-8:30 PM | The Garage Contact Amy or Carrie at eveningmops@WeAreFaith.org MITM - Moms in the Middle (Moms with 1st-12th graders) Thursdays, 9:15-11:15 AM | Rooms 144/145 Contact Christy or Mel at mitmdyer@WeAreFaith.org ● MEN Men’s Bible Study, Prayer Group & Fellowship Wednesdays, 8 AM | Prayer Room A Bible study to pray for the cares and concerns of the Faith family and to have fellowship together. Meets weekly 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
Single/single again Farmer Group Randy & Sue Farmer farmerrg@hotmail.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 Melo/Panther Group Glem Melo and Michael Panther gmelo@wearefaith.org Most Awesome Small Group John & Kathie Jeanor jjeanor@comcast.net Nearpass Group Andy & Judy Nearpass anearpass@WeAreFaith.org Saporito Group Jeannine Saporito jeannine347@hotmail.com Slager/Dykstra Group Paul Dykstra pdykstra@actionplumbingin.com Toren Group Carl & Margaret Toren ctoren@sbcglobal.net VanDrunen/Hamstra Group Elmer VanDrunen & Al Hamstra alberthamstra@hotmail.com
Clausing Group John Clausing & Dave Balka jclausing@WeAreFaith.org
Varela Group Lee Varela emv1127@gmail.com
Creatives Group Sergio & Yanina Gomez sergio@33contemporary.com Disciple those in the Arts
Varela/Wojnar Group Lee Varela & Denise Wojnar emv1127@gmail.com
Dalach Group Mike Dalach & Rich Wondaal mikedalach@gmail.com Dennert Group Brian & Beth Dennert bdennert@WeAreFaith.org DeYoung/Eenigenburg Group Jerry & Cindy DeYoung Kurt & Cheryl Eenigenburg cindydeyoung6@yahoo.com Dykstra Group Lou & Dori Dykstra lddykstra@gmail.com Faith Singles Sandra Reitsma faithsingles@WeAreFaith.org
Wille Group Shosh Aumock & Trudy Wille saumock7@yahoo.com CHOIR 7-9 PM | Rooms 142/143 Feb 5 & 26/Mar 5 to sing Mar 10/11 Apr 2 & 9 to sing April 14/15 Apr 30/May 7 to sing May 12/13 Contact Jen at jwilson@WeAreFaith.org
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Faith Singles Wednesdays, 5:45-6:45 Dinner 7 PM Worship Contact Sandy Reitsma at faithsingles@WeAreFaith.org Check the Faith Singles calendar for other events. Marriage Ministry Groups Contact Gina at marriages@WeAreFaith.org The Marriage Ministry Group 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. Register at WeAreFaith.org under the Wedding or Marriage page. Marriage Enrichment is offered at all Wednesdays discipleship evenings. Groups at 5:45 PM, beginning with dinner. Class to follow from 6:458:15 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 | Garage Contact John at jbenson@WeAreFaith.org Meets weekly Summer Serve Week July 22-27 | Harderwyk Ministries in Holland, MI Completed 6-8th grade students. WeAreFaith.org/students Contact John Benson at jbenson@ WeAreFaith.org High School (9th-12th grade) Sundays, 4-6 PM | The Garage Contact Chris at chrisr@WeAreFaith.org Meets weekly Colorado Challenge June 16-24 | Quaker Ridge Camp in Woodland Park, CO Completed 9-12th grade students WeAreFaith.org/students Contact Chris Ravesloot at ChrisR@WeAreFaith.org ● CARE Additional Care groups listed on page 20. 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
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-age 13 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 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 For the month of May we will be open the 13th & 20th. 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 on Wednesdays Wednesdays, 6-8 PM | Dyer Programming for individuals with special needs (of all ages) as well as for parents. More information at reflectorsministry.org Available the 2nd & 4th Wednesday Night to Shine, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation Friday, Feb 9, 6-9 PM Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older. Faith Church will be one of over 500 churches around the world hosting this event. Lots of help will be needed! WeAreFaith.org/NightToShine Spaghetti Meal Wednesday, Mar 14, 5:45-6:45 PM Come to the Wednesdays meal on March 14 as the Reflectors Ministry will be serving the food and collecting donations to help support families from the ministry attending the incredible “Joni and Friends Family Retreat” in Michigan this summer! Reflectors Parent Workshop Saturday, Apr 21, 10:30 AM - 2 PM This workshop is for parents who have children with special needs (of any age). There will be teaching, space for processing, food, pampering, gifts, among other things. The Reflectors team will be offering programming for all participants so that parents can participate in the workshop. Behavior Training Saturday, May 12, 9 AM - 4 PM Join us for a certification course called “Safety Care,” which the Reflectors Ministry is adopting as our methodology for dealing with crisis situations. You will learn de-escalation techniques and ways to safely engage crisis. Registration, which includes lunch, is FREE for all Reflectors volunteers and parents/caregivers. A $10 donation is suggested for nonReflectors attendees. Joni and Friends Family Retreat June 18-22 | Maranatha Bible Conference in Muskegon, MI Family Retreat is an incredible vacation and Christ-centered week for families impacted by disability. For the 6th summer in a row, Faith Church will
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be sending families AND volunteers to participate in this amazing experience. More information about the retreat can be found at www.joniandfriends. org/family-retreats/, and scholarships for individuals for Faith Church will also be available. Please email Vinnie at vadams@WeAreFaith.org for more information.
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, Feb 22, 6:30-9 PM Sunday, Apr 29, 3-5:30 PM
*More information and registration for all above events is located at reflectorsministry.org.
Partner with Faith (Class 2) Thursday, Mar 15, 6:30-9 PM Sunday, May 20, 3-5:30 PM
● HEALTH & WELLNESS
Join dates are May 5/6 & July 21/22 Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@WeAreFaith.org. or register online at WeAreFaith.org/Join
Faithfully Fit Mon, Wed & Fri, 5:05-6:05 AM Contact Ray & Mary Tambrini (708) 650-2287/ mary.tambrini@trnty.edu Join us as we exercise to various workout videos. Go at your own pace. Any age or gender is welcome. 12.1 Running Club Saturdays, 8 AM | Faith Dyer (December-March) Saturdays, 7 AM | Erie Lackawanna Trail, Highland (on Kennedy under Ridge Road viaduct) (April through November) 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
Baptism Class Sunday, Mar 18 9 AM Sunday | Rooms 146/147 Contact Linda at ljordan@WeAreFaith.org Infant/Child baptism is for parents requesting baptism for their child(ren). Register at WeAreFaith.org Cocoa & Canvas Saturday, 9-11 AM | Faithful Grounds Contact Beth at bfrank@WeAreFaith.org March 10 | registration opens Feb 12 May 12 | registration opens April 9 Cost is $15, which includes cocoa, snacks and supplies. WeAreFaith.org/artclasses
● CLASSES & EVENTS
HIGHLAND PASTOR’S NOTE Greetings Paper reader! My name is Jason DeVries and I am one of the pastors at Faith Highland. My wife Kristin and I both grew up at Faith Church and it is where we met. We’ve now been married for almost 21 years. God has blessed us with three children. Anneke is 18, Justin, 16, and Kate, 13. Kristin teaches Pre-K at Crown Point Christian School. I had always planned on having a marketplace position and serving the church as a volunteer. It was the road I traveled for 10 years until 2004 when God showed me His plans were different. And, I couldn’t be happier! What a privilege to serve a church with people dedicated to reaching people for Jesus Christ! It’s a very exciting season with our expansion in Highland and I can’t wait to see what God does next! Pastor Jason DeVries
Coffee & Canvas Tuesday, 6:30-8:30 PM | Faithful Grounds. Contact Beth at bfrank@WeAreFaith.org February 20 | registration opens Feb 5 April 17 | registration opens April 3 Cost is $25, which includes coffee, snacks and supplies. WeAreFaith.org/artclasses
SERVE 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 and Strassburg Elementary Schools. 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. Sign-ups and more sinformation at faithchurchkids.org.
WORSHIP 8910 Grace Street Highland, IN 46322 (219)-838-6231 Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 9 AM-2 PM 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
CONNECT ● WOMEN Women’s Bible Study Colossians Thursdays, 9:30 AM Contact Judy Nearpass at jnearpass80@@gmail.com We will be using the Discover Your Bible series. Meets 1st & 3rd Thursday MOPs - Mothers of Preschoolers (Infant through Kindergarten) Tuesdays/Wednesdays, 9-11 AM Contact Amanda or Kristy at mopshigh@WeAreFaith.org Meets 1st & 3rd Tue/Wed ● ADULTS (Men & Women) SMALL GROUPS 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 Wydra Small Group (Married couples in their 20s and 30s) 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 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 20 ● STUDENTS Faith Students Contact Amy at avanderzee@WeAreFaith.org
Meets weekly Fresh Hope | Wednesdays, 7 PM Contact 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 Mon, Wed & Fri 10:15-11 AM | Great Room Contact Karen at (219) 616-0187 ● CLASSES & EVENTS
Middle School (6th-8th grade) Sundays, 6-7:30 PM | Great Room Meets 2nd & 4th Sunday
Pathway to Membership Includes two classes, both are required for membership. Discover Faith is a prerequisite for Partner with Faith.
High School (9th-12th grade) Sundays, 6-7:30 PM | Great Room Meets 1st & 3rd Sunday
Discover Faith (Class 1) Thursday, Feb 22, 6-9 PM Sunday, Apr 29, 12:30-3 PM
● CARE
Partner with Faith (Class 2) Thursday, Mar 15, 6-9 PM Sunday, May 20, 12:30-3 PM
Additional Care groups listed on page 20. 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.
Join dates are May 6 & July 22 Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@WeAreFaith.org, register online at WeAreFaith.org/Join or get a paper registration form at the Welcome Center.
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.
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MUNSTER PASTOR’S NOTE My name is Charlie Contreras and I am the campus pastor at Faith Munster. My wife Anne and I have been at Faith Church for over 11 years. We have two children, Gabriel (13) and Gracie (10). Anne works for Faith Church as the Small Group Director. It is a joy to be a part of a church where we see God transforming lives with the love of Jesus. We are excited to see people growing in their faith and reaching out to serve in the church and their community. We love that God empowers us to go out and love people in our diverse world, to share the love of Christ with them and help them connect in His church. We are looking forward to an awesome year of growth both spiritually and with new people coming alive in Christ! Pastor Charlie Contreras
WORSHIP 8411 Columbia Ave Munster, IN 46321 (219) 838-3929 Office Hours: Tue-Thu: 9 AM - 12 PM and 1-4 PM FaithChurchMunster
● 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)
Service Time: Sundays 9 & 11 AM
SMALL GROUPS
*Interpretation for the deaf is available upon advance request: reflectors@WeAreFaith.org
Stevens Group | Munster Jennifer Stevens jenst98@att.net
Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Sunday, 11 AM
Women’s Bible Study | Munster Linda Kruczynski & Marianne Eenigenburg linda520@ameritech.net
CONNECT ● WOMEN Faith Stitchers Sunday, 2 PM Contact Ginni at ginnit@hotmail.com Faith Stitchers gathers to crochet and knit baby and toddler blankets for a local women’s shelter, and provide hats and scarves for the people of Munster. Join us as we make new friends, pray and stitch together. Meets the 4th Sunday, year-round
Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 20 ● CARE Additional Care groups listed on page 20. 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.
Celebrate Recovery Fridays, 7-9 PM Contact Jim at jrpaglis@gmail.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. ● 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, Apr 22, 3-5 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Sunday, Feb 11, 3-5 PM Sunday, May 20, 3-5 PM Membership & Baptism Celebration is July 22. Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@WeAreFaith.org or register online at WeAreFaith.org/Join.
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Worship Night Wednesday, Apr 18 at 7 PM Easter Service Sunday, Apr 1 at 9 & 11 AM
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 Munster 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.
SCHERERVILLE PASTOR’S NOTE In August we starting pastoring at Faith Schererville and are excited to be a part of the Faith Church family. We have quickly fallen in love with the people at this location, and I have no doubt that any person who walks through our doors for the first time will feel it immediately as well. As we seek to reach the disconnected and grow the connected, we’ve found a diverse community of people who love to be in relationship. We believe we’re family, and strive to be a church that connects people to Jesus one relationship at a time. We’re always inviting people to be a part of our growing family! Philippians 1:9-11 says, “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.” So we invite you to join us as we seek to be a people who are known for our overflowing love, growing in knowledge and understanding, filled with the fruit of our salvation, serving in Jesus’ name. I’m looking forward to meeting you. Pastor Aaron Klein
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 Faith Kids Worship (Infant-5th grade) Sunday, 10 AM Chapel open every Thursday for prayer from 6-6:30 PM. Join us in the Community Cafe after each service for coffee and refreshments. ● Messages Missed a message? All of our messages can be found on Facebook or Vimeo (vimeo.com/faithchurch)!
CONNECT ● ADULTS (MEN & WOMEN) SMALL GROUPS Are you interested in connecting in a small group at Faith Schererville? Contact Mel at mbendle@ WeAreFaith.org Marriage Ministry Groups See Care & Connections on page 20 ● 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 ● CARE Additional Care groups listed on page 20. 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 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.
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 faithchurchkids.org. Contact Katie Lukes at klukes@WeAreFaith.org
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 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, Mar 8, 6:30-9 PM Thursday, May 10, 6:30-9 PM Partner with Faith (Class 2) Thursday, Mar 22, 6:30-9 PM Thursday, May 24, 6:30-9 PM Membership & Baptism Celebration is May 6 & July 22 Contact Bonnie at bwitvoet@WeAreFaith.org or register online at WeAreFaith.org/join. Men’s Group Saturdays, 8 AM | Campagna Chapel Contact Geoff at gffpram@gmail.com Join us as we grow together in our walk with Christ. No need to preregister, just show up! Meets 2nd & 4th Saturday
SERVE 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. Contact Luis Garcia at lgarcia@WeAreFaith.org Worship Team Our Worship team is looking for instrumentalists and vocalists. Contact Dee Wilson at dwilson@WeAreFaith.org
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