G race of Ch r i s t Pre s by t e r i a n C h u rc h Yo u r P l a ce To B e l o n g , B e l i e v e , B e co m e , B l e s s
Iglesia Presbiteriana Gracia de Cristo: Un Lugar Para Pertenecer, Creer, Ser y Bendecir
April
2019
VOL 112
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Head Pastor — Bill Williamson
Dear Grace of Christ Family, In the Ancient world there were great expectations for the coming Messiah. And when the Messiah, Jesus Christ, came into this world, there were great expectations for Him to overthrow the Roman Government. The people believed Jesus was going to set them free from their oppressors. However, when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, it was not what they had expected to see. They expected to see Jesus riding on a mighty warhorse. Still, they picked-up palm branches and shouted their “Hosannas!” They were still fully expecting Jesus to conquer the enemy and establish the Kingdom of God on earth. As Jesus was eventually arrested, tortured, beaten and crucified, the “Hosannas” and expectations of many in the crowd began to fade away, and the crowd began to dwindle. Some of the disciples ran away in the dark of night, fearing that they might be identified as a follower of Christ. Peter denied Christ and Judas found he could not bear the guilt of betraying Jesus. As Jesus hung on the cross, darkness filled the earth. Those who knew Jesus had forgotten the promise of His resurrection. All hope was gone. Providentially, for those who were most intimate with Jesus, there were still great expectations. All hope was not destroyed.That hope came alive on that first Easter morning when Jesus rose from the dead. The news began to echo throughout the hills and valleys: “HE IS RISEN!”
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When Peter and John heard the words of the women who had seen the Risen Lord, they raced to the empty tomb. They in turn brought back the Good News: Jesus is not dead. HE IS ALIVE! The hearts of the disciples began to be filled once again with great expectations. Hope was beginning to be restored. Perhaps now the Kingdom of God would be established on earth. How devastating it must have been 40 days later as they then watched Jesus ascend to Heaven. Once again, they were alone. Jesus had left them. They watched Him disappear into the clouds, standing and waiting perhaps for Him to return, as He promised. Soon they would receive the Holy Spirit, and they would be given new hope and greater expectations as they proclaimed the Good News to the ends of the earth. Today, we still wait with great expectations for the return of Christ. However, God also has great expectations for us, His Church. We are to go throughout the world, proclaiming freedom for the captive, offering living water to those who thirst, and inviting others to come to the light of Christ. As we draw closer to Easter Sunday, let us keep looking to the fields, for they are ripe unto harvest. Let us invite someone to join in the “festive procession” as we gather together on Sunday mornings. Because of the Grace of Christ, Pastor Bill
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Pastoral Care — John Stolzenbach
I remember a conversation I had with someone I knew as I was crossing the hall from my office at church to get a cup of coffee years ago. I asked a simple question, “How are you doing?” His reply was one that spoke volumes, “Are you asking to be polite, or do you really care?” Two hours later he left my office looking very different from when I first asked the question. In reality, he was a mess and he didn’t know where to turn, so he thought he’d just stop by church to go into the Sanctuary and pray. It wasn’t so much what I said, which wasn’t much, because I mostly just listened. As his story unraveled, I could see the pain and confusion being released. He later told me, if he hadn’t run into me, he wasn’t sure how that day would have ended. He just needed Jesus on two feet to listen. It didn’t take a seminary education to do what I did that day. It took someone willing to take the time to listen. As I reflect on that conversation, I realized I was following what a friend did for me some twenty or so years before that day when I was in seminary. I was in a deep depression. Sue first had me see our family doctor to see if there was a physical reason for my depression, but it was really my friend, who was a business man, who really helped by stopping by my house and taking me for a ride with him. He knew my situation and his way of helping was dealing with the elephant in the room. His goal was to get me talking, which took some time for me to unload, but after a trip through the drive thru at Wendy’s and a trip to a park, I finally opened up. It was the beginning of getting life back on track for me so I could complete the job ahead of me.
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Why is it so easy to share with others about heart conditions, cancer, broken limbs, etc., but when it comes to mental/ emotional health issues, we want to hide them? I think we all know what happens when we keep things hidden in the dark; they don’t get any better, in fact they get worse. But, when we open the blinds and let the light, in this case the Light of Christ, shine into the recesses of our hearts and minds, it’s amazing what happens. Jesus always met people where they were whether physically, mentally, spiritually, or emotionally. Where is God calling you to either seek out a friend or professional for yourself or a loved one, or be the hands and feet of Jesus, to reach out to a hurting family member or friend and be a listening ear to help carry another’s burdens? people are better off than one, for they can help “Two each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can
reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
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Together Serving Jesus, John Stolzenbach
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Gracia de Cristo / English
En Español
KEEP THE LIGHT ON
Have you sometimes been tempted to turn off the light switch, to live a moment in the darkness just to do what is evil? Please do not turn off the switch. God has called us to be children of light, not of darkness. Our duty as Christians is to show His Light to the world 24/7, “He is the Light of the world.” – John 8:12 When we give our lives to Christ, we promise to follow Him and shine for Him, but as time goes by, we turn off the light, and we realize that He is the one who is with us everywhere. We no longer do His will but ours, we ask Him to give us all our wishes. Jesus is the true light that enlightens the world; He is the one who illuminates our path and we must follow Him. Let His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. you were once darkness, but now “For you are light in the Lord. Live as children
of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible – and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. – Ephesians 5:8-13
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Brothers and sisters, I encourage you to keep your light switch “ON” at all times, and let His light shine, because it is by our conduct and good way of living that people will come to know our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He has commanded us to place His light on top of a hill.
MANTENGA LA LUZ ENCENDIDA
¿Alguna vez has tenido la tentación de apagar el interruptor de la luz para vivir un momento en la oscuridad solo para hacer lo que es malo? Por favor, no apagues el interruptor. Dios nos ha llamado a ser hijos de luz, no de oscuridad. Nuestro deber como cristianos es mostrar Su Luz al mundo 24/7, "Él es la Luz del mundo." – Juan 8:12 Cuando entregamos nuestra vida a Cristo, prometemos seguirlo y brillar para Él, pero a medida que pasa el tiempo, apagamos la luz y nos damos cuenta de que ahora, Él es quien nos sigue a todas partes. Ya no hacemos su voluntad sino la nuestra, le exigimos que nos conceda todos nuestros deseos. Jesús es la verdadera Luz que ilumina al mundo; es Él quien ilumina nuestro camino, y es a Él a quien debemos seguir. Que se haga Su voluntad en la tierra como en el Cielo. ustedes antes eran oscuridad, pero ahora “8sonPorque luz en el Señor. Vivan como hijos de luz 9 (el
fruto de la luz consiste en toda bondad, justicia y verdad) 10 y comprueben lo que agrada al Señor. 11 No tengan nada que ver con las obras infructuosas de la oscuridad, sino más bien denúncienlas, 12 porque da vergüenza aun mencionar lo que los desobedientes hacen en secreto. 13 Pero todo lo que la luz pone al descubierto se hace visible. – Efesios 5:8-13
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Hermanos y hermanas, les aliento a que mantengan su interruptor de luz "ENCENDIDO" en todo momento, y dejen que Su luz brille, porque es por nuestra conducta y buena manera de vivir que las personas conocerán a nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo. Él nos ha ordenado que coloquemos Su luz en la cima de una colina. son la luz del mundo. Una ciudad en lo “14altoUstedes de una colina no puede esconderse. 15 Ni se
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enciende una lámpara para cubrirla con un cajón. Por el contrario, se pone en la repisa para que alumbre a todos los que están en la casa. 16 Hagan brillar su luz delante de todos, para que ellos puedan ver las buenas obras de ustedes y alaben al Padre que está en el cielo. – Mateo 5:14-16
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Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Gracia de Cristo / English
En Español
are the light of the world. A town built on a hill “You cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp
TENGO EL VALOR PARA COMPARTIR MI FE
and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:14-16
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I HAVE THE COURAGE TO SHARE MY FAITH Hello! Jahzeel here. You probably know me from the worship team at the Contemporary service at 9 a.m. and the Spanish service at 1 p.m. I am a Senior at Davis High School. Besides the worship team, I do many things throughout an average week. Especially as a Senior in High school – I am busy! Jahzeel Garcia
Recently, I participated at the Davis’ Follies, which is a talent show. I was able to choose the song I wanted to perform. It may have been spur of the moment, but I had chosen to perform “Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury. This song is very powerful. I fell in love with this song the first time I heard it. When I chose this song, some people questioned it. They wondered why I selected this song or if this song was appropriate to sing for a school talent show. One person even asked me if I had a back-up song just in case. I had said no because I just knew that I had to perform this song. It was something I felt strongly about. It never felt wrong to sing “Reckless Love.” When the night of the performance came, I was ready. I of course felt a little jittery, but who doesn't feel this way when they are performing alone? As I went backstage, three of my schoolmates asked me what song I would be singing. I told them and what surprised me was how many people actually knew the song. One of the reasons it surprised me was that I don't know many people who share their faith, especially those that are my age. As I got on stage and my name was called, I heard so much support from friends and family. However, as I started performing, everyone sat quiet and listened. At first, I thought that they were thinking “what is this?” or “what is she singing?” But as the song grew I felt a calming sensation and a voice saying, “They are listening to you.” After the song ended, there was a huge uproar of applause and cheering! 5
¡Hola! Jahzeel aquí. Probablemente me conozcas del equipo de alabanza en el servicio contemporáneo de las 9 a.m. y el servicio en español a la 1 p.m. Soy una estudiante del último año en Davis High School. Además del equipo de adoración, hago muchas otras cosas durante una semana promedio. Especialmente como una estudiante de último año de secundaria, hay mucho por hacer.
Jahzeel y Thomas
Recientemente, participé en el día Follies de mi escuela Davis, que es un espectáculo de talentos. Pude elegir la canción que quería interpretar. Tenía que hacer una elección. Pudo haber sido un estímulo del momento, pero yo había elegido interpretar una canción Cristiana que se llama “Reckless Love.” (Amor Sin Condición) de Cory Asbury. Esta canción fue muy poderosa e igual de impactante para casi todos. Yo personalmente me enamoré de esta canción cuando la escuché por primera vez. Cuando elegí esta canción, algunas personas me cuestionaron. Se preguntaron por qué la seleccione o si era apropiada para en un espectáculo de talentos de mi escuela. Una persona incluso me preguntó si tenía otra canción como respaldo por si acaso. Dije que no porque yo sabía que tenía que interpretar esta canción. Era algo muy especial y que me hacía sentir fortalecida. Yo, en ningún momento sentí que estaba equivocada al elegir cantar “Reckless Love.” Cuando llegó la noche, el jueves 26 de febrero, ya estaba lista. Yo, por supuesto, me sentí un poco nerviosa, pero ¿quién no se siente así cuando están actuando solos? Cuando ya estaba yo detrás del escenario, tres de mis compañeros me preguntaron qué canción iba a interpretar. Les conté y lo que me sorprendió fue la cantidad de personas que realmente conocían esa canción. La única razón por la que me sorprendió fue que sé que muchas personas, especialmente de mi edad, no comparten su fe. Cuando subí al escenario y me llamaron por mi nombre, escuché mucho apoyo de amigos y familiares. Sin embargo, cuando comencé a actuar, todos se sentaron en silencio y escucharon. Al principio sentí que ellos pensaban
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Gracia de Cristo / English
En Español
I felt so grateful that the song was very well received. I was overjoyed! This experience taught me how great it can be when we are willing to share our faith. I have come to also learn that many others share the same faith I do. I just really want to thank our amazing God for giving me the strength and courage to audition and perform at the Davis Follies. - Jahzeel Garcia-Figueroa What a great example of our young Jahzeel to follow and share Christ in her school and community. Remember that God has called and sent us to love and serve our neighbors throughout the world. Working for His kingdom – Pastor Alex Rule
GRACIA DE CRISTO EVENTS After School Program at Adams Elementary Tuesdays & Thursdays from 3pm – 5pm. Adams Elementary Teacher Appreciation Dinner at Grace of Christ Church, April 25 at 5:30 pm. Clothing Exchange at Grace of Christ Church Gym Saturday, May 11 from 9 am - 1pm. Adams Outreach Camp at Ghormley Meadow June 14-16, 100 children from 3rd, 4th & 5th grades. If you wish to volunteer & serve in any of these ministries, please call 509-248-7940 x 113 or call Pastor Alex Rule directly at 509-731-2657 or alex.rule@yakimagrace.com
Outreach Camp At Ghormley 100 Children in 2018!
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"¿qué es esto?" O "¿qué está cantando?" Pero a medida que la canción creció, sentí una sensación de calma y como una voz que me decía: "Te están escuchando." Después de terminar, hubo una gran celebración con aplausos y gritos de alegría. Me sentí muy bien que la canción haya sido muy bien recibida. Me llené de gozo. Esta fue una gran experiencia para mostrar la fe que tengo y para aprender que hay muchos otros que comparten la misma fe que yo. Solo quiero agradecer a nuestro maravilloso Dios por darme la fortaleza y también el valor para hacer una audición y actuar en el Follies de mi escuela Davis. - Jahzeel Garcia-Figueroa Qué gran ejemplo de nuestra joven Jahzeel para seguir y compartir a Cristo en su escuela y comunidad. Recuerde que Dios nos ha llamado y enviado a amar y servir a nuestros vecinos en todo el mundo. Trabajando Para Su Reino – Pastor Alex Rule
GRACIA DE CRISTO EVENTOS Programa Después de Escuela en la Primaria Adams son los Martes y Jueves de 3 pm – 5 pm. Cena de Apreciación para los Maestros de Adams en la Iglesia de la Gracia de Cristo, Abril 25, 5:30 pm. Intercambio de Ropa en el gimnasio de la Iglesia Gracia de Cristo, Sábado, 11 de Mayo de, 9am - 1pm. Campamento de Más Alcance para Adams en Ghormley, Junio 14-16, para 100 niños de Adams de 3ro, 4to y 5to grado. Si usted desea ser voluntario para servir en alguno de nuestros ministerios por favor comuníquese con nosotros llamando al 509-248-7940 X 113 o directamente con el Pastor Alex Rule al 509-731-2657 o alex.rule@yakimagrace.com
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Stewardship
halfhearted here; you must return to God, “...Nothing your God, totally, heart and soul, holding nothing
Lov
back. This commandment that I'm commanding you today isn't too much for you, it's not out of your reach. It's not on a high mountain – you don't have to get mountaineers to climb the peak and bring it down to your level and explain it before you can live it. And it's not across the ocean – you don't have to send sailors out to get it, bring it back, and then explain it before you can live it. No. The Word is right here and now - as near as the tongue in your mouth, as near as the heart in your chest. Just do it! – Deuteronomy 30:10-14
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It is the indwelling life of God Himself, Christ living in us, our hope of glory, as Paul wrote in Colossians 1:27, that allows us to live full out, heart and soul, holding nothing back! And, the more we live embracing our Savior’s presence within, the more He takes over creating His likeness in us. If we are going to live as Kingdom people we must know what real life is about, we must know the life God has chosen us to live. Time spent with the Word of God, here and now, is essential to our ability to spiritually grow and live a victorious life. As we discipline ourselves to turn to God we are moved by His love, and we become changed to His likeness. We desire to follow His Word and live according to His will; holding nothing back. We live to honor our LORD. And, with His Word right here and now missional living becomes our lifestyle. We help our neighbor, perform our work to the best of our ability, share a meal with someone hungry for a relationship, we give of all that we have with heartfelt thanksgiving... we live missionally every moment of our lives when God’s Word is forever on our minds and in our hearts.
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the Church e
s
Jesus
Our responsibility is to focus our lives on Christ and allow Him to glorify His name in us and in all we do. In every circumstance of life, in every blessing we experience, it is Jesus who is our hope of glory. We are called to surrender all to Him, holding nothing back; this is to be our ongoing way of life. Surrendering to God isn’t one big decision we make once in our lives but rather it is a series of decisions as we allow God to give meaning and purpose to all we do. When we hold nothing back from God we are walking in faith to connect with others, serve and grow in Christ likeness. When we hold nothing back from God we give our time, energy and money to support His work here and in all the world. When we hold nothing back from God it means we are participating in His work in real ways. When we hold nothing back from God we see and experience His transforming power to change hearts, grow the church and transform our world. We are then living the life He chose for us. mercy on the one you have anointed. A single “ Have day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere
else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. For the LORD God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will the LORD withhold from those who do what is right. O LORD Almighty, happy are those who trust in you. – Psalm 84:8-12
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Meditate on how much God loves you; know that He will not withhold any good thing from you. You can give to God, holding nothing back, because He is your light and protector and has even greater treasure to share with you.
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
– Janet Krieger Elder Business Ministry
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Vacation Bible School Would You Like to Volunteer for VBS? Come to our first Volunteer Meeting to find out what volunteering is all about and how you can participate. There is a place for everyone to serve!
How To Volunteer: Join us on Sunday, June 23 in the
gym at 3pm for youth and 3:30 for youth & adults.
Why Volunteer? You can make a difference in the life
of a child by helping them grow closer to their Lord and Savior. Having volunteers sign up early helps us to expand our student registration, so please let us know right away that you plan to volunteer with VBS this summer!
Side Effects of Volunteering: Volunteering has been
shown to strengthen your heart, cause an out-pouring of kindness, reduce stress, encourage generosity and to create lasting friendships!
Feeling Crafty? Start searching for drum building
materials. Drum decorating and VBS Prop building will take place in the gym from 9-12 on Saturday, April 27. The drums will be used as decorations for VBS. The best drum will win a grand prize! Each entry will receive a prize, and the grand prize will be awarded on Sunday, April 28 at 11:00 am in the Garden Room!
Note... Please RSVP
to Melissa to secure a design space (so everyone has plenty of elbow room) and to enter your drum in the contest. All drums must be completed and delivered to the garden room by 8:30am on Sunday, April 28. Also RSVP to join the prop building team for the morning. Thx! Melissa.Gray@ YakimaGrace.com
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Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Children’s Ministry — Melissa Gray
Calling All 4th and 5th Grade Students! April Memory Verse: A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. – Proverbs 17:17
April Lessons: April 7: Jesus is our friend! April 14: Palm Sunday and Kids Perform at 10am April 21: Easter Celebration April 18: Jesus is compassionate
Are you ready for SUMMER? VBS June 24-28
ROAR WILL BE A FANTASTIC WEEK OF VBS FUN JUNE 24-28 WITH AN ADDED VBS FUNDAY ON SUNDAY JUNE 30!
VBS is for children ages 4 years – 5th grade with a special childcare class (ages 3 months – 3 years) available for the children of our VBS volunteers. 6th grade students have the opportunity to join the VBS fun as a volunteer!
Camp Preview Day June 8 Curious about all the fun that goes on at Camp Ghormley? Well, now you can come see for yourself all the great events happening at camp this summer. Join us for Camp Preview Day on June 8 for fantastic family fun and opportunity to experience a day of camp together. Visit www.ghormleymeadow.org for more information and how to RSVP.
We have an exciting new opportunity only available to 4th and 5th graders.D2 (Donuts and Discipleship) is a place to build community, dive into God’s Word, and have a crazy amount of fun while doing it. Join us for donuts, games, and good time as we grow together in our faith! This is YOUR time to hang out with friends and build community with your peers! D2 begins April 28 from 10:00-10:30 following the 9:00 lesson. Talk to Melissa for more information! Melissa. gray@yakimagrace.com / 509-248-7940
VBS Prop Party and Drum Decorating Contest Saturday April 27 Calling decorators of all ages! It’s time to start building props for VBS, and what better way to kick off the fun than with a CONTEST! Design and Decorate a Drum for VBS! Dust off your imagination and start searching for drum building materials and décor! Prop building and drum decorating will take place in the gym from 9-12. Drum entries will be used for decorations prior to and during VBS. Each entry will receive a prize, with one grand prize being awarded on Sunday, April 28 at 11:00 in the Garden Room. Please RSVP to Melissa to secure a design space for your Drum entry, or to join the prop building team for the morning. All drums must be completed and delivered to the garden room by 8:30 on Sunday, April 28.
Primary Camp July 14-17 Primary Camp is an overnight camp session for students entering 2nd-4th grade in the fall. This is a shorter session for the youngest age group- a great first camp experience. Grace of Christ will have church volunteers and staff serving as counselors during this session. Please request Grace of Christ when registering.
Junior Camp July 21-25 Junior Camp is a four-night camp session for students entering 4th-6th grade in the fall. Grace of Christ will have church volunteers and staff serving as counselors during this session. Please request Grace of Christ when registering. 9
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Ghormley Meadow Christian Camp High School Retreat Recap
The weekend of February 1-3, 50 youth spent a wonderful weekend here at camp! Campers enjoyed activities such as snow tubing, human curling, camp games, and arts and crafts. Various youth pastors taught from God's Word, with a communion service on Sunday morning wrapping up the weekend. Campers said they were reminded that "God speaks through His Word", "I can always ask the Lord for help," and "It's good to be quiet and listen to what God is telling me."
Family Camp Weekend
Introducing our first annual Family Camp Weekend at Ghormley, on the weekend of July 19-21, 2019! This camp is open to families of all ages who are looking for the traditional camp experience, together with their family! Join us for intergenerational worship, meadow games, camp activities, ageappropriate teaching, family challenges, campfires, crafts, a night game, and family devotional time.
2019 Camp Registration
Registration for summer camp 2019 is now open! Don’t miss the opportunity to save money on your child’s camp registration by registering before April 19th. For more information, visit us at: www.ghormleymeadow.org/summercamp/
Online Giving
Families have the option to stay in cabins or tent camp. Childcare is available for ages 3-6 during the worship & teaching sessions. Group teaching and programming will be provided for children from ages 7-17 during the adult teaching times in the mornings and evenings. Register today! A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your registration. For more information regarding the weekend, including pricing and payment options, please see our website: https://www.ghormleymeadow. org/family-events/family-camp-weekend/
We’re excited to announce that online giving is now available through our website! Please visit our Donate page to see what giving opportunities we currently have, and how to get involved. http://www.ghormleymeadow.org/donate/
Prayer Needs
• Pray that God will continue to bless us with groups to fill our non-summer months in 2019.
• Pray that relationships will be built, lives changed,
Summer Staff Hiring
and every person who comes to Ghormley Meadow will meet Jesus.
• Ghormley has hired a
We’re hiring! We’ve begun our search for those who God is calling to serve at camp this summer. We have many needs, and a variety of types of positions remain available. If you’re thinking about joining our team, don’t delay, apply today! For more information on summer jobs, visit us at: https://www.ghormleymeadow. org/get-involved/summer-staff/
www.ghormleymeadow.org 10
fundraising consultant to help us build a future vision and development plan. Please pray for God's direction in this very important process!
• Pray that God will lead us to
the right staff members who He desires to serve at Ghormley this summer.
509.672.4311
facebook.com/ghormleymeadow
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Grace of Christ Preschool — Alli Weide 509.248.7940, ext. 119 Alli@YakimaGrace.com www.yakimapreschool.com
CHAPEL April Memory Verse: God so loved the world that He gave His only Son and whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. – John 3:16
CLASSROOMS Letters of the Month:
V, W, X
3’s Class Number: 9 The first week in April we are on Spring Break. When we come back we learn about God’s beautiful creation through Flowers. The week of Palm Sunday we talk about Easter.
Just like the earth is being renewed for Spring and new life is bursting forth, God renews us and we have a new life because of Jesus’ death and resurrection! We wrap up April by studying Our Big World – this big, beautiful, and diverse planet that God created. This unit will include a trip to the Library where we will see how a library can help us explore even more about our world. I think Dr. Seuss put it best when he said, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
UPCOMING EVENTS SPRING TEA PROGRAM | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10 AT 10 AM All of our classes have been working so hard on songs, finger plays, and learning how to sign the Pledge of Allegiance; we can’t wait to show our friends and families! After our Program, we will enjoy tea and cookies, and get to take pictures with a real bunny! PURPLE DAY | TUESDAY, APRIL 30
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR!
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Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Grace of Christ Preschool FUNDRAISING UPDATE Thank you to everyone who donated to, attended, and prayed for our Fundraising Gala held in February. Not only did we have a fantastic time celebrating our preschool and our community, but we raised over $6,000! This money will be divided among our Scholarship Fund, Curriculum, Field Trips and Enhancements, and updating our Playground! Thank You So Much!
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Antique Portrait Fundraiser
MOPS Meetings
THUR, APRIL 11–SAT, APRIL 13 MOPS only has a few meetings left this year, but we have a great fundraiser coming up! Come support MOPS and create some fun memories at our Antique Portrait Fundraiser! Photo sessions are available Thur, April 11 thru Sat, April 13. Photo sessions are only $10 and include your sitting fee and a 8x10 photo. (Additional photos are also available for purchase). These pictures always turn out so great! Please contact the church office to purchase your session. (Limit One Session Per Family)
EASTER MESSAGE | FRI, APRIL 19 | 9:00-11:30AM The MOPS April 19th meeting will include our Easter message. Please join us in the chapel if you would like to attend. MOPS MEETING | FRI, MAY 3 | 9:00-11:30AM 20 YEAR CELEBRATION | FRI, MAY 17 | 9:00-11:30AM Our MOPS 20 year celebration will be held on May 17th. We invite any past or present MOP members to join us as we celebrate the work God has done with this ministry and the women of this valley.
Women’s Ministry Watch for highlights from the Women's Retreat in the May newsletter. To all the women who joined us in Leavenworth – we pray that you can take many nuggets and truths into the everyday, that is the majority of the Christian life! To those who wanted to attend, and other plans conflicted with the Retreat, we also pray that you were blessed. 12
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Student Ministry — Thomas Sudbury
Why Are We Here?
What Are We Doing?
This past month we just finished a lesson on getting into scripture with Hamilton and Ali, and the youth have been given a challenge to read the entire New Testament before Summer. Those who complete the challenge will come with me to Silverwood for an amazing experience! We think it is very important that youth are in the word of God, so we hope this incentive will help them find a desire to read daily. In April we have two series going: a two-week series on Jesus, as well as a two-week series on Easter. We are excited to have Brent and Jill share in these. If you are a parent who wants to see the curriculum, you can meet with Thomas or Ali and see the plans. We have all of our leadership team partnered up with their mentors. Thank you to all who are participating in this! We will try to meet quarterly and catch up on how things are going, and our first meet-up will be on April 28th @ 3PM.
Where Are We Going?
We have an opportunity to serve at the Union Gospel Mission during Spring Break. This will be a pilot program so we are not quite sure of what to expect, however we know God will show up in a big way! Please be praying for our youth on this journey.
In this season of ministry, I have been asking why we do what we do? I read in Proverbs where it talks about the importance of vision, and James teaches us to do, “what the Lord wills.” We have been praying a lot as a team on what we should be doing. It is exciting to see God work in the lives of both students and leaders and I look forward to seeing what God will show us next in His timing. We have been focusing on connecting our youth with our 4 B’s and it has been exciting to see how they are growing. I am thankful to all those who make our youth feel welcome in church, connect with them through our mentorship program and support them when they are helping in the community. We serve a great God who has an amazing way of bringing people together.
#Yakima2Yetabon Easter Eggstravaganza
This Easter is going to be a service you are not going to want to miss! We are going to have a celebration breakfast fundraiser with some amazing food and lots of wonderful surprises! Book your spot today before they are all gone! $10 suggested donation.
YOUTH GROUP | GET AIR | SPRING BREAK Youth will be going to Get Air over Spring Break! Check out the Calendar for more details! MAUDY THURSDAY | SANCTUARY | APRIL 18 Maundy Thursday service is happening April 18th and we are encouraging all youth to attend. We want to emphasize the importance of this Easter season with the youth. KARPOS:LIVE! | GARDEN ROOM | APRIL 26 Karpos:Live! Will be happening April 26th and this is a great opportunity to see our youth musicians as well as many great artists in the community of Yakima share their gifts!
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Hospitality Ministry The Death and Resurrection of Jesus Changes Everything The joyous celebration of Easter is just around the corner. The death and resurrection of Jesus is a game changer. Love demonstrated in obedience and sacrifice continues to transform the world. Jesus is our Hope, Peace, Joy, and Strength - Hallelujah! Jesus charged His followers to go into the entire world and make disciples, to spread the Good News. Why? Because it was for freedom - Christ has set us free so that we might live in a love relationship with the Father and with one another. This is the Gospel; we now have unhindered access to the very source of abundant life and are empowered to love others even as we are loved by the Lord!
A Hope For Others As Christ’s followers, we long for people be set free from anything that inhibits the fullness of life that is lived in the richness of God’s perfect peace and righteous purpose. Have you ever prayed for someone to come into a relationship with Jesus and be set free? Have you ever wondered how or if it will ever happen? God is gifting us with some new faces in our worship services. Perhaps there is someone praying for one of these new faces and that they would come to know Jesus. What do you hope would happen if someone you prayed for attended a new church? What kind of reception would you desire for that person? Undoubtedly, you would desire that they would be warmly welcomed enough to return again! You would hope that they would make a connection with someone. We implore you to be that welcoming person. Extend a hand of fellowship. Invite someone back again. Be Jesus-withskin-on and spread the Good News of God’s love as you extend hospitality to others!
Linda Sorenson
Linda Mathews
Here are two strategies you can use to convey a welcome in the Name of Jesus.
• THE RULE OF THREE – For the first three minutes
immediately following the service, try not to talk to others with whom you are already acquainted. Instead, talk only to those you don’t know. It takes about three minutes to exit the church after worship, so it’s important to act quickly to make contact with them before they leave. Afterwards, you can catch up with friends in the Garden Room. Better yet, invite your new acquaintance into a conversation with others you already know and to linger a bit over refreshments!
• THE CIRCLE OF 10 Greet anyone, familiar or not, who comes within ten feet of you. Whether in the sanctuary, the Garden Room, parking lot, or along the walkway or hallways, greet everyone within your ‘Circle of 10.’
Warm Hearts & Bodies Quilting Group Do you have some fabric yardage that you no longer desire to keep? The quilting group is looking to expand their ministry by making quilts for children that participate in Trail Seeker outreach program. Contact Joann Benson at 509-961-4741 for more information on how to donate fabric or financial donations. Want to sew? Join in the fun of making quilts with others! 14
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Hospitality Ministry Help Wanted – Yes, YOU! We need your help as greeters in the parking area and at doorways, cookie/coffee hosts, Welcome Center volunteers, and ushers. Please sign up to serve one time this spring in one of these areas! Sign-up sheets are at the Welcome Center.
Thoughts from Pastor Emeritus Steve Barker
Confession
Easter Photo Opportunity Looking for a fun opportunity to snap a photo of family and friends? Look for the photo stand in the Garden Room on Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday.
I must confess it has been difficult to come to church for the last year. I used the weather, the Mariners, the Seahawks and my health as excuses. These other options for Sunday were a smokescreen because I felt embarrassed that I was overlooked as a potential leader. I offered my help a few times, yet I wasn’t serving in our church the way I felt God wanted me to be doing.
Pastor Emeritus Steve Baker
Limitations
The reality of Parkinson's is depressing: I used to love cooking... today Julie does all the cooking I can’t drive Public speaking is out; pretty difficult for a preacher I can’t walk without a scooter or a walker
Hope
Nobody knows what the future holds but we do know who holds the future. Our faith can bring comfort in time of trouble, a challenge in the face of depression, a hope that will not disappoint.
Vision
Our church is looking for a vision that will unite us. We have been given a new pastor who is demonstrating love for church and who is seeking how to best show Jesus’ love for the city of Yakima. Pastor Bill has given me the freedom to write a monthly column for our web page and newsletter Grace Alive. My desire is to be able to sit in the pew and reflect how our faith together can help us grow together and witness to the power of the Gospel. 15
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Mission Ministry BAGS OF HOPE SHOPPING LIST
CAMPBELL FARM Loving Our Neighbors as Ourselves Through the practice of hospitality, The Campbell Farm Seeks to: • Model the just and peaceable kingdom of God. • Heal, empower and equip God’s people by the Holy Spirit. • Be ambassadors of Christ’s reconciliation. • Be good stewards of God’s creation. The Campbell Farm is an outreach to the Wapato area community where close to 95% of the population live in poverty. Located on the Yakama Indian reservation, The Campbell Farm seeks to meet the basic food and clothing needs, educational and social needs of their immediate and surrounding community. Farming has always been central to the purpose of The Campbell Farm as it seeks to interpret issues of sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship through “hands on” work on the farm.
TOILET PAPER PAPER TOWELS PLASTIC SPOONS PLASTIC FORKS KLEENEX PAPER PLATES (DURABLE) CLOROX WIPES GALLON BAGS
UART-SIZE BAGS Q SANDWICH BAGS GARBAGE BAGS (YARD-SIZE) TOOTHPASTE TOOTHBRUSHES SHAMPOO CONDITIONER GLUE
CRAFT PAPER MARKERS CRAYONS HOT GLUE GUNS
Kick-Off – May 26 | Return Filled Bags – JUNE 9 THIRD ANNUAL SALMON BAKE FUNDRAISER DINNER Saturday, May 4th – 11:00am | $25.00 – Pay at the door The Campbell Farm – 2527 Campbell Rd, Wapato A feast, that is NOT to be missed! This savory dinner includes: fresh Columbia River fire-roasted salmon, wild rice, fresh spring asparagus, authentic Indian fry bread, and a special dessert. Go ahead, treat yourself and your family.
PROJECT MERCY
Along with your prayers, here are two specific ways that you can support and bless this vital local ministry: BAGS OF HOPE According to The Campbell Farm Director, without this support, it is extremely difficult to meet basic outreach needs. Through your donations of school supplies, paper products and household items, this community is greatly blessed. Collection begins on Sunday, May 26th and bags are to be returned with Bags of Hope items by Sunday, June 9th.
Board Members Journey to the Pacific Northwest
(left to right) Project Mercy Vice-Chairman Bete Demeke, Project Mercy Board Member Priscilla Brown, Project Mercy Board Member Bruce Bacon, and Project Mercy Office Manager Lucy Roller
For the first time ever, the Board of Project Mercy gathered in the beautiful Pacific Northwest to hold their quarterly board of directors meeting. Members attended from Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Fort Wayne, Zionsville and, yes, Yakima. Historically, the board has met near Project Mercy’s headquarters in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This year, however, the Board of Directors met from March 1st through March 3rd for Strategic Planning, Infrastructure Updating, Brainstorming, and prayer and fellowship in the locale of the Pacific Northwest. Project Mercy is a not-for-profit relief and development agency providing aid, comfort, and support in the name of Jesus Christ to alleviate human suffering and overcome systemic poverty in Ethiopia and beyond. 16
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Mission Ministry
CLOTHING X-CHANGE Slated for Saturday, May 11, from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm, the Clothing X-Change is a great opportunity to bless others. Donate your Spring Cleaning items to this great outreach. Items such as women’s, men’s, children’s and baby clothing, household items, toys, books (Bibles) and other gently used furnishings are welcomed. Your donations will then be passed along – free of charge – to someone else who needs these things. You are also welcome to donate your time either the day before the X-Change to sort and organize materials or during the day of the Clothing X-Change. Please contact Pastor Alex Rule at 509-731-2657 or alex.rule@ yakimagrace.com. Thank you!
LOVE, INC Interim Director Visits MMT Interim Director and long-time Grace Partner Keith Mathews recently gave an update to the Mission Ministry Team regarding Love, INC (Love in the Name of Christ). Some fourmonths into his role as Interim Director, Mathews shared how he is leading the organization forward. He offered Love, INC’s 2018 annual report to those wanting specific details. Mathews explained how Love, INC’s purpose is unique and meets a targeted niche that is different from other organizations. Locally, Love, INC partners with 20 churches—Grace of Christ being one of those churches—to help people change their lives, both financially and spiritually. Their clients are not immediately given assistance, but must come back with a demonstration of need. This helps clients to be held accountable for their financial actions as well as insures that participants aren’t Love INC Love In the Name of Christ simply going from place to place, garnering as many resources as they can. Participants are given 6-weeks basic financial training where they learn how to budget and track their dollars. After 6-weeks, participants are assigned a mentor to come alongside them to guide and hold them accountable. This is a year-long process. According to Mathews, many 17
of the participants must learn to control impulsive, out-ofcontrol spending by acquiring new skills and tools through the program. Mathews shared a success story of “Mary” who came to their TEAM program (financial training) and whittled away more than $30,000 in debt. “Mary” is sharing her new-found financial skills with her son who is launching into adulthood with confidence in handling his finances.
Climbing Out Of Homelessness The new CEO of the Yakima Union Gospel Mission (YUGM), Mike Johnson, spoke to the Yakima Rotary club on March 7th to share a program he started in 2010 while at the Seattle Union Gospel Mission. Called “Climbing out of Homelessness,” Homelessness,” this innovative innovative program literally helps literally helps men andand women womenwho who are overcoming overcoming addictions and and homelessness to set to their sights on set their sights successfully climbing on successfully Mt.climbing Rainier. Mt. Johnson’s Rainier. w e l l - r well-received eceived Johnson’s presentation touched on presentation the secret power behind the theclimbing climbing program’s success –team! Johnson skillfully skillfullyexplained explained why thetheelement elementofofteam team is sosopowerful powerfuland andvital vital in Mike Johnson overcoming overcoming addiction and homelessness. He also addressed how we can also be a part of this team. You can check out his Emmy Award-winning TV news coverage and independent documentary film, A NEW HIGH to learn more about this program. Yakima Union Gospel Mission is part of Grace’s local ministry partners. You may also have caught a glimpse of Johnson at Grace of Christ as he has shared in the Fireside room about the mission’s chapel offerings.
Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Our Core Values
Glorifying God With Our Best Pioneering and Ongoing Outreach Engaging and Nurturing Relationships Being A Cornerstone in the Community Equipping People for Ministry Through Biblical Foundation and Service
9 South 8th Ave Yakima, WA 98902 (509) 248-7940
APRIL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
April 1 - 5
No Preschool/Spring Break
All Week
Preschool
Wed, April 3
Encounter Youth Group at Get Air
6:00pm Meet at Get Air
6th-12th
Thur, April 4
Adult Ed Ministry Team Meeting
4:00pm Library
Committee
All Morning Sanctuary
Everyone
Sun, April 7 PRAYER SUNDAY Communion Available After Worship Sun, April 7
Student Ministry Staff Meeting
4:00pm Lounge
Mon, April 8
Edith Ferry Circle Lunch/Meeting
Mon, April 8
Business Ministry Team Meeting
Tue, April 9
Preschool Spring Tea (3's)
Tue, April 9
Mission Ministry Team Meeting
4:00pm Adult Ed Rm
Committee
Tue, April 9
PRAYER AND HEALING GATHERING
6:30pm Chapel
Everyone
Wed, April 10
Preschool Spring Tea (4's & PK)
10:30am Sanctuary
Preschool
Wed, April 10
Grace Kids: Palm Sunday Rehearsal
6:00pm Sanctuary
Grace Kids
Wed, April 10
MOPS Leadership Team Meeting
6:00pm Lounge
Committee
April 11 - 13
MOPS Antiquities Fundraiser (Buy Tickets in Office)
Sat, April 13
Prayer Shawl Ministry
12:00pm Fireside Room 4:00pm Library 10:30am Sanctuary
Staff Women Committee Preschool
Afternoon/Evening Mezzanine East Classroom Everyone 1:00pm Garden Room
Knitters
Sun, April 14 PALM SUNDAY: Kids Sing During 9:00am Service Thur, April 18 MAUNDY THURSDAY: Communion & Tenebrae Service
7:00pm Sanctuary
Everyone
Fri, April 19
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
9:00am Chapel
Moms
Fri, April 19
GOOD FRIDAY | Sanctuary Open for Prayer
12:00-2:00pm Sanctuary
Everyone
Sun, April 21 EASTER SUNDAY Sunrise Service (dress warm!) 6:00am North Lawn
Everyone
Easter Breakfast Student Ministry Fundraiser
6:30 - 11:00am Gym
Everyone
Worship Services
9am, 11am & 1:00pm Sanctuary
Everyone
Grace Kids Sunday School
9am & 11:00am 2nd Floor KidZone
PreK- 5th grade
Youth Worship Together in Sanctuary
9:00am Sanctuary (left side) 6th-12th
Tue, April 23
Session Dinner and Meeting
5:30pm Garden Rm/Adult Ed Rm
Wed, April 24
Mary McLean Guild Meeting
Thur, April 25
Adams Elementary Staff Appreciation Dinner
5:30pm Gym
Fri, April 26
KARPOS: LIVE! Coffeehouse Music
6:00pm Garden Room
Everyone
Sat, April 27
Prayer Shawl Ministry
1:00pm Garden Room
Knitters
Sun, April 28
Deacon's Meeting
12:00pm Fireside Room
12:30pm Lounge
Elders Committee
Deacons
Grace Alive is available in a PDF format on the church web page www.YakimaGrace.com. For inquiries, submissions, omissions, and corrections, contact Ericka in the church office 248-7940 x 100. ericka.clark@yakimagrace.com
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Weekday Events MON TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Overeater’s Anonymous Trailseekers Al-Anon Divorce Care
10:00am 12:00pm 2:30pm 5:15pm 6:30pm
TUE
9:00-11:30am 9:45am 10:00am 5:30-7:00pm 7:00-8:00pm
SOZO Prayer Women in the Word Bible Study All Staff Check-In Meeting Gracia de Cristo Music Rehearsal Gracia Men of Courage
Adult Ed Everyone Adult Ed Everyone Gym Trailseekers Adult Ed Everyone Lounge Everyone Prayer Room Fireside Room Lounge Sanctuary Sanctuary
SOZO Team Women All Staff Gracia de Cristo Music Team Men
WED Encounter: Youth Group *Dinner too! Gracia Women of Prayer
6:30-8:30pm 5:30pm
THUR Bible Study Fellowship Temple Choir SOZO Prayer
9:00am 7:00pm 5:45pm - 9:15pm
FRI MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) (Meets the 1st & 3rd Friday) SOZO Prayer
9:00-11:30am
Chapel Moms
9:00 - 11:30am
Prayer Room SOZO Team
SUN Grace Contemporary Worship Grace Traditional Worship (Led by Temple Choir) Gracia de Cristo (Worship in Spanish) Going Deeper: Hebrews Golden Circle Grace Kids Youth reFUEL
9:00am 11:00am
Sanctuary Everyone Sanctuary Everyone
1:00pm
Sanctuary Everyone
Gym 6th-12th grade Adult Ed Women Sanctuary Women Choir Room Temple Choir Prayer Rm Everyone
Sunday Services and Events
9:30am Adult Ed 10:15am Room 103 9:00 & 11:00am KidZone Wing 9:00am Youth Rm & Gym
Adults Adults 3yrs-5th grade 6th-12th grade
Announcements COOKIES, CRACKERS & FRUIT
Thank you for bringing cookies, crackers, fruit, or quick breads for all to enjoy during our fellowship hour on Sunday. See dates you can contribute – last names beginning with…
Sunday,
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April 7 April 14 April 21 April 28
T - Z A- F G-M N-S
GRACE OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 9 S 8TH AVENUE YAKIMA, WA 98902 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
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