Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
OUR CORE VALUES
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Glorifying God With Our Best Pioneering and Ongoing Outreach
9 South 8th Ave Yakima, WA 98902 (509) 248-7940
Engaging and Nurturing Relationships Being A Cornerstone in the Community Equipping People for Ministry Through Biblical Foundation and Service
May Calendar of Events Thurs, May 1 National Day of Prayer National Day of Prayer Luncheon 12:00 / Noon Tickets Available @ Fiddlesticks & Inklings ($15) Senior Adult Ministry Meeting 1:30 pm Women’s Ministry Meeting 4:30 pm MOPS Set Up 5:00 pm The Awakening - Prayer & Worship 7:00 pm Fri, May 2 MOPS - Mothers of Preschoolers 9:00 am
Sun, May 4
Prayer Sun
All Morning
Howard Johnson Plaza
Everyone
Adult Ed Room Parlor Ad Ed, Gym, 2nd Floor Breakthrough Church Gym
Committee Committee Committee Everyone Moms
Sanctuary/Prayer Rm
Everyone
Cristo Vive Fundraiser Dinner 6:00 pm Gym Everyone Mon, May 5 Living Waters Meeting 5:30 pm Parlor Committee Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting 6:00 pm DF Lounge Committee Tues, May 6 Staff Birthday Lunch 12 / Noon Parlor All Staff Thurs, May 8 Sacred Messengers 7:00 pm Library Committee Fri, May 9 MOPS Leadership Meeting 9:00 am DF Lounge Committee Cristo Vive Craft Night 6:30 pm Adult Ed Room Women Cristo Vive Youth Group 6:30 pm Gym Youth Sat, May 10 Ghormley Work Day All Day Camp Ghormley Everyone Free Lunch / RSVP please! Prayer Shawl Knitting Group 1:00 pm Mid High Rm Knitters Sun, May 11 Happy Mother’s Day! Baby Celebrations & Infant Baptisms All Morning Sanctuary Everyone Mon, May 12 Edith Ferry Circle Potluck 12:00 / Noon Parlor Women Trailseeker’s End of Year Carnival 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm North Lawn Trailseekers Tues, May 13 Worship Ministry Team Meeting 5:30 pm Room 203 Committee Discipleship Ministry Team Meeting 6:00 pm Room 218 Committee Service Ministry Team Meeting 6:00 pm Adult Ed Room Committee Business Ministry Team Meeting 7:00 pm Library Committee Wed, May 14 Last Marriage Class 6:00 pm Garden Room Thurs, May 15 MOPS Set Up 5:00 pm Ad Ed, Gym, 2nd Floor Committee Ghormley Commission 6:30 pm Adult Ed Room Committee MOPS - Mothers of Preschoolers 9:00 am Gym Moms Fri, May 16 MOPS Staff Appreciation Lunch 12:00 / Noon Gym MOPS/Staff Ministry Fair All Morning Garden Room Everyone Sun, May 18 Childcare Staff Meeting / Lunch 12:00 / Noon Adult Ed Room Childcare Staff Cristo Vive Planning Meeting/Potluck 2:00 pm DF Lounge Cristo Vive Tues, May 20 Children’s Ministry Board Meeting 4:00 pm DF Lounge Committee Session Leadership Team 7:00 pm Adult Ed Room Committee Fri, May 23 Kaffee Klatsch 1:30 pm Garden Room Everyone Cristo Vive Family Night 6:30 pm DF Lounge Families Sat, May 24 Prayer Shawl Knitting Group 1:00 pm Mid High Rm Knitters Shine and Dine 9:30 am - 3:00 pm Camp Ghormley Men Sun, May 25 Garth Gustafson Preaching All Morning Sanctuary Everyone Deacon’s Meeting 3:30 pm DF Lounge Deacons Mon, May 26 Memorial Day / Church Closed All Day Entire church Everyone Tues, May 27 Session Dinner and Meeting 6:00 pm Garden Rm/Mid High Elders & Staff Wed, May 28 Naomi Circle Meeting 10:00 am Parlor Women Last Parenting Class 6:30 pm Chapel Parents Thurs, May 29 Preschool Last Day Luau (3’s) 10:00 am Gym Preschool families Fri, May 30 Preschool Last Day Luau (4’s & PreK) 10:00 am Gym Preschool families Fri, May 30 Prayer Mosaic 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Main Floor Women
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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
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Weekday Events M-W-F
Exercisers
Monday TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Overeaters Anonymous Trailseekers Al-Anon
9:30 am -10:30 am 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:30 pm 5:15 pm
Gym/GR
Senior Adults
Adult Ed Everyone Adult Ed Everyone Gym Adult Ed Everyone
Tuesday Women’s Bible Study, “Living a Spirit Led Life” (Through May 20th) Women in the Word Bible Study
9:15 am
Gym
Women
9:45 am
Parlor
Women
Wednesday Women of Action (2nd & 4th Weds) Men’s Noon Bible Study SOAR: School of Spiritual Transformation Contemporary Worship Rehearsal Marriage Class (through May 14) Youth Group - Mid High & Senior High Parenting Class
9:30 am 12:00 / noon 5:30 pm 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 6:30 pm - 7:45 pm
Chapel Adult Ed Lounge Sanctuary Garden Rm/ Rm 217 Youth & Mid Hi Rms Chapel
Women Men Soar Students
Thursday Bible Study Fellowship Temple Choir Cristo Vive Music Rehearsal SOZO Prayer Cristo Vive Mid-Week Worship
9:00 am 7:00 pm 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm 5:45 pm - 9:15 pm 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Sanctuary Women Choir Rm Chapel Cristo Vive Lounge, Prayer Rm SOZO Team Chapel Everyone
Friday
9:00 am - 11:30 am
Chapel, Prayer Rm
SOZO Team
Sanctuary Sanctuary Chapel Adult Ed Lounge Youth Room Classrooms
Everyone Everyone Everyone Adults Adults 6th - 12th Grade 3yrs - 5th Grade
SOZO Prayer
Everyone 6th - 12th Grade Everyone
Sunday Mornings Worship - Led Contemporary Worship Team Worship - Led by Temple Choir & Organ Worship - Cristo Vive (Spanish) Adult Ed Bible Class Golden Circle Youth Sunday School KidZone Sun School
8:00 am & 9:30 am 11:00 am 12:15 pm 9:30 am 9:30 am 9:30 am 9:30 am
Sermon Series God’s Family On Mission When you say, “Yes” to God, you get incredible blessings. One is especially noteworthy: You become a member of God’s family. Brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, aunts and uncles, are all part of the deal. No, you’re not connected by blood, but rather you are connected by something far more powerful - the Holy Spirit! The family of God is ever expanding and it does so at the speed of relationships. This occurs through a process of growth and learning characterized by accountability, trust, and love as we seek to be transformed by God’s active presence in our lives. In this short series, we will explore the vision God has given to His disciples and, consequently, His church: Simply put, we are a family on mission. May 11 Acts 1:6-8 “At the Speed of Relationships” (Matthew 28:18-20) May 18 Acts 2:42-47 “God’s Family Extended” (John 15:15) (Ministry Fair) 3
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Announcements Opportunity to Serve
Session is looking to find a volunteer to fill the role of Clerk of Session. If you are interested or would like to suggest someone who might fill the role well, contact John Rasmussen at 952-9614. Requirements: candidate must have previously served as an Elder, and be a current member of our church.
National Day of Prayer
Two events on Thursday, May 1: Luncheon 12:00 pm at Howard Johnson Plaza - tickets availabale ($15) at Fiddlesticks & Inklings. The Awakening - an evening of prayer and worship; 7:00 pm at Breakthrough Church 1705 West Chestnut. All are invited!
Ministry Fair, Coming Soon! Sunday, May 18 all morning in the Garden Room. A great opportunity to see where and how you can be connected at Yakima Grace! There are awesome things happening with our church family!
What Can I Do? It seems everything is so expensive these days. But, there’s a way you can help minister with your labor! The 2nd Saturday of EVERY MONTH is a workday at Ghormley. Come lend a hand, cleaning, repairing, etc. Everyone can help. Workers will be fed lunch. Please call 672-4311 to let the staff know you’ll be there.
Cookies & Cans
Every Sunday morning we serve cookies, coffee and punch during fellowship hours after each service in the Garden Room. Our church family provides the cookies each week. Please bring cookies on the week beginning with the first letter of your last name. Also consider bringing a donation of nonperishable food items for donation to Calvary Rescue Mission.
May 4: A - F
May 11: G-M
May 18: N - S
May 25: T - Z
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
4 de Mayo Cristo Vive Fund-Raiser Dinner You are invited to an evening of celebration, great food and commitment to serve the Hispanic community in Yakima. Sunday, May 4 at 6p in the Gym. Please sign up at the Connection Center, invite a friend or even better, be a table host. The cost is $10 per person or $70 for a table for eight.
— Gustavo Carvajal Childcare will be available upon request. 5
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Senior Pastor — Pastor Jack Peebles
Dear Church Family, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you…For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” (Romans 12: 3, 5) When you say, “Yes” to God, you get incredible blessings. One is especially noteworthy: You become a member of God’s family. Brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, aunts and uncles, are all part of the deal. No, you’re not connected by blood, but rather you are connected by something far more powerful- the Holy Spirit! The family of God is ever expanding and it does so at the speed of relationships. This occurs through a process of growth and learning characterized by accountability, trust, and love as we seek to be transformed by God’s active presence in our lives. God invites us to be a community of faith that shares His Good News with others.
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Relationships are the building blocks on which the community of faith is built. Within those relationships, the community must continually ask the questions, “What is God saying?” and “What are we called to do?” The doing question informs what the mission God has given us looks like. On one level, we are called to share the Gospel with our words. On another, we are called to share the Gospel through our actions. Speaking of relationships, I want to offer my appreciation to you for your support of Pastor Cindy during the last month. The love and compassion you have extended to her demonstrates to me that you have fully welcomed her into the “family.” May 4th is set for Ghormley Sunday. Then beginning May 11th, we will embark on a short sermon series called “God’s Family on Mission.” In this series, we will explore the vision God has given to His disciples and, consequently, His church: Simply put, we are a family on mission. Living and loving for Him, Pastor Jack Peebles
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Associate Pastor — Pastor Cindy Carter
Thank You I am deeply grateful for the incredible outpouring of love, caring and prayers during this time of deep grief over the loss of Greg. It’s definitely the most painful thing I’ve experienced. Thank you for being there. I’ve truly felt God’s love and comfort through my Grace of Christ family. It has been an affirmation that I am supposed to be here. Thank you also for many of you making the trip to Spokane for Greg’s Memorial Service. Since most of you didn’t have much opportunity to get to know Greg, I want to share a little about his life. He grew up primarily in Colorado, and loved the outdoors, camping, backpacking, rock climbing, hunting, and fishing. At age 10 he battled his first round of cancer. He loved music and playing the guitar, and for many years gave leadership to our church’s Worship Team. Greg majored in Biology, and minored in Anatomy, and thought seriously about being a doctor. He was always intrigued with how wonderfully God designed our bodies. He worked in cancer research for several years, and while he enjoyed it, one of his bosses encouraged him to pursue something in which he would work more with people, because he was gifted in that area. Greg came to personal faith in Jesus his freshman year of college, through a friend on a debate tournament. Soon after, some judgmental Christians completely turned Greg off to Christianity. Three years later, after a recurrence of cancer, the Lord drew Greg back to Himself, through a leader from Navigators, who with some students, had been praying for Greg for two years. A couple of years after college, Greg began volunteering in Youth Ministry, and later served as an Interim Youth Director at St. James Presbyterian Church in Littleton, CO. This confirmed his call to ministry, and he left for Fuller Seminary in
Pasadena, CA, in Sept. of 1984, where we met in a small group for first year students. When we first started thinking about marriage, I was thinking Greg could be the pastor and I could be the pastor’s wife. Greg’s response to that was, “God has called you to be a pastor. If marrying me would mean you wouldn’t be a pastor, then I won’t marry you.” Greg was always my greatest supporter in ministry. We married in June of 1985, graduated from Seminary in 1987, and served as pastors together for 25 years. What I miss most about Greg – his love and friendship, his passion to love and serve the Lord, his delight in nature, his talent for teaching and asking the hard questions, his intelligence and keen memory, his honesty, integrity, courage, and perseverance, his great sense of humor, quick wit, and playfulness, nearly 29 years of delightful marriage and raising our children together. I hope and pray you will experience a little bit of Greg through his influence on me. I look forward to the day when we will all share eternity together with our Lord, Jesus. One of Greg’s favorite passages was 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” With love and appreciation, Pastor Cindy Carter
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Cristo Vive Fellowship — Pastor Gustavo Carvajal
Agua Viva para Muchos (Living Water for Many)
coals and rocks. The toast was made with “Agua de Horchata”, “Agua de Jamaica” and “Agua Pura”, all made with freshly purified water.
It is always a joy to be a part of a project that makes a difference in our community; whether in our own backyard, like the Madison House, or in Mani-Yukatan, Mexico. Through your support, and the participation of members from Cristo Vive, Yakima Grace and Yakima Covenant, Living Water is flowing in the little town of Mani, in the Yucatan Peninsula.
The following Monday the plant opened sales to the community and also started giving away some of its bottled water to those in need in Mani. With your help we have empowered the local church El Divino Pastor to show God’s love and care practically. The church is now providing affordable water to the community, as it sells it below the market price. Also, 25% of the total production is distributed to elderly people and families in need for free.
The “El Divino Pastor”, (Divine Shepherd), local church worked on the purification plant building for months. Fund raising, building permits, blueprints changes, construction and the involvement of many church members reached a crescendo on March 21st, when the building was painted on the inside. That very same day, Friday, March 21, the Living Waters team arrived from Yakima. By noon, on Wednesday, March 26 the water purification plant was operational and the first few five gallon bottles were filled with purified water. That evening with 100+ in attendance, the party began. Attendees included representatives from the local government, people from the Yotholin and Chapab churches, (where we have installed other purification plants), people from the local Presbyterian congregation and many people from the community. We broke bread (tortilla) together and ate “Cochinita Pibil”, a pig roast that cooks for hours while sealed and buried among burning
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The Divine Shepherd church is being a better witness of Jesus Christ, the Living Water, in a community that thirsts for both physical and spiritual water. To God be the glory! Peace, Gus
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Preschool — Rhonda Cardona
Our school year is coming to an end this month! Thank you for all your support through prayer and donations that you have given towards this ministry outreach program.
We still have some openings for our new school year this fall! Openings are available in our two pre-kindergarten classes. Don’t wait too long and then endure the uncertainty of our waiting list! Call me today and let me tell you all about our program. Rhonda Cardona, Director 509-248-7940, ext. 119 Rhonda@YakimaGrace.com www.yakimapreschool.com
Please continue to lift up this preschool in prayer as we plan for our new year and for the families and children who will be a part of it this next year. Do you want to help financially? Contact Rhonda Cardona, Director, to find out ways you can be an important part of this ministry!
It is with mixed feelings that we say farewell to a long-time teacher with our preschool. Channa Case first joined our preschool in 2001 and has been a vital member of our staff by ministering, teaching and nurturing so many children (over 230) and their families, as well. She will be deeply missed here by children, families and staff. It is definitely our loss and someone’s gain. Please join us by lifting up Channa in prayer and to thank her for her years of service. We wish her the greatest of success in all her future endeavors. 9
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Children’s Ministry — Susie Woodin
HAVE YOU “HERD” THE PLAN? EVERYONES “HANGING OUT” THIS YEAR AT TRIPLE “S” VBS! WHAT IS TRIPLE “S” VBS? It’s 11 Super Summer Sundays of Weird Animals “Where Jesus’ Love is One- of- a- Kind” WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE? Every Sunday from June 15 – August 24 the 9:00 worship service will be transformed into Weird Animals VBS for the entire congregation. The 9:00 worship schedule is as follows: 8:45-9:00 Arrival for worship – Children in diapers should be dropped off in childcare prior to service. Parents register Pre-K through 5th Grade kids in the Garden Room when attending VBS the first time, where nametags will be issued to kids. Once your child is registered you only need to stop and pick up your child’s nametag and sign them in every Sunday thereafter. 9:00- 9:20
Parents and kids enjoy VBS opening together in the Sanctuary. This includes music, drama, and other fun. At 9:20 kids are excused to independent VBS activities. Pre-Kinder (no diapers please) will meet in room 103 and K-5th Grades will meet in the Garden Room.
9:20-10:10 Adult worship and message 10:10–10:15 Kids join parents back in worship for VBS music and closing. 10
“EXTENDED VBS” – Everyone is invited to join us at 10:30 on June 15, July 27, and August 24 as we will extend VBS with food for everyone and a continuation of games and activities on the North Lawn. WHAT WILL WE DO? We are so excited for EVERYONE to experience the fun and biblical learning that VBS has to offer, therefore the entire congregation will study the same five VBS themes throughout the summer. June 15 & 22
Bible Point: Even when you’re left out…Jesus loves you! Bible Story: Jesus heals 10 lepers Key Verse: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matt. 28-20
June 29 & July 6
Bible Point: Even though you’re different…Jesus loves you! Bible Story: Jesus reaches out to a Samaritan woman. Key Verse: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus” Eph. 2:10
July 13 & 20
Bible Point: Even when you don’t understand… Jesus loves you! Bible Story: Jesus washed the disciples’ feet. Key Verse: “Do unto others as you would like them to do to you.” Luke 6:31
July 27 & Aug. 3
Bible Point: Even though you do wrong…Jesus loves you! Bible Story: Jesus dies and comes back to life Key Verse: “God…loved and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.” 1 John 4:10
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Aug. 10 & 17
Bible Point: Even when you’re afraid…Jesus loves you! Bible Story: Ananias bravely helps Saul Key Verse: “Don’t be afraid…Take courage. I am here!” Matt. 14:27
HOW CAN I HELP? That’s the most important question of all! Parents and congregation members who are volunteering that day in VBS will participate in the opening portion of VBS. When the kids are excused, volunteers will also leave to join in the fun. Kids VBS activities include: • June 15, 29, July 13, 27 & Aug. 10 – Bible Drama Adventure where kids will experience the Bible story, Imagination Station, and prayer tent. • June 22, July 6, 20, Aug. 3, 17 – Bible exploration (study) with video and God sightings, recreation, and prayer tent. • We need volunteers to assist groups of kids while participating in these activities. We also need volunteers who would lead in drama, recreation, Bible study time, craft, prayer tent, photography and security. • We also need wacky and wonderful VBS characters in various areas. If you like to dress up in costumes then you would love this area!
• We also need help on the three extended VBS days (see dates listed on previous page) with set up of food and other activities for kids. VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION FORMS Forms are located in the Garden Room at the VBS display board. Simply fill out the forms, pick the area and the date(s) you are available to serve, and turn the forms into the Connection Center or main office of the church. Contact Susie Woodin at the church if you have any questions. 248-7940 ext. 110
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Senior Adult Ministry Break A Leg! That’s the title of our May Kaffee Klatsch presentation. If you’re thinking it’s about orthopedic concerns, think again. It’s an old stage saying wishing the actors well with their upcoming performances. Steve Caffery, manager of the Capitol Theatre, will be our featured speaker at 1:30 in the Garden Room on May 23, 2014. The Capitol Theatre has a rich history. Beginning in the 1920’s as a showpiece theater for vaudeville, it is now known for the Yakima Symphony, Yakima Community Chorus, The Town Hall Lecture Series, and as a site for The Best of Broadway hits.
the artist for original ceiling painting, did second one as well. Many of us remember time frame and enjoy the feeling of nostalgia comes by simply stepping through the door viewing the stage.
the that that and
Steve is a man of vision and ideas for featuring the performing arts. Please come and join us to hear what he hopes lies ahead for our beautiful, showcase theater. We’ll have fellowship and strawberry cottage cake following the presentation. Please sign up at the Connection Center.
While down town Yakima has changed dramatically over the years, careful attention has been given to maintaining the vintage look of the Capitol. Even after a destructive fire in the 70’s, the building was renovated to keep the appearance nearly identical to what it had been previously. Tony Heinsbergen,
Prayer Ministry Which Side of the Cross Prayer Ministry invites you to attend a teaching by Robin Stuber on Saturday, May 17 at 9:00 am. Come and be challenged by some new thoughts on the “Justice of the Cross.”
Do you possess all that Christ has won for you on the cross? Easter comes and Easter goes and the victory of the cross is often forgotten as life goes on. Recently I have been exploring new ideas (for me) of what the true meaning of God’s secured justice of the cross means in my everyday life. It is more than salvation. It is more than forgiveness. It has the potential to redirect our prayers as we secure all that Christ accomplished on the cross to bring to this life the justice of God. Join us as we look at the scriptures to uncover our Kingdom identity as New Testament believers and grasp a deeper meaning of “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.” ll Corinthians 5:19 “Righteousness and justice are the foundations of Your throne; mercy and truth go before Your face. Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! They walk, O Lord, in the light of Your countenance.” Psalm 89:14-15
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Robin Stuber
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Women’s Ministry Prayer Mosaic Do you remember the Prayer Mosaic? A few years ago, women experienced an amazing outpouring of God’s love at the Women’s Retreat in Leavenworth and at an event at First Presbyterian Church in April of 2010. In that place, a collision of the Holy Spirit and women happened, and then hearts were touched and lives were changed. We invite you to experience God’s power and majesty! Whether you’ve come to a Prayer Mosaic before or not, this is an amazing opportunity to meet God and be filled with the Holy Spirit! In this unique event, women from all walks of life, will participate in various elements of prayer to experience God’s heart and His love for us! Come and join us on Friday, May 30 from 6:00-8:30pm! Prayer stations: • The Art of creating His Masterpiece • Dancing in His Presence • Ministry at the Feet • Washed Clean • Anointed for Healing • Soaking in His Presence • Wall of Hands
Prayer Mosaic Friday, May 30 at 6:00-8:30pm Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church Corporate Worship in Sanctuary Free Event Refreshments & Fellowship in the Garden Room
For more information contact Shan Trick at 248-7940 or shan.trick@yakimagrace.com 13
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Celebrate what God did in and through our church family during our Kingdom Living yearlong partnership with the Madison House! May 1, 2013 - April 30, 2014
Kingdom Living Year of Celebration BY THE NUMBERS Volunteers: 188 New volunteers: 169 Weekly volunteers: 24 New weekly volunteers: 18 Total volunteer hours: 2435 One volunteer shares her experience: I went into the year of celebration thinking I had all my ducks in a row. I would help the church promote the partnership with Madison House, dusting off those old professional skills I used to have, and that would be my contribution for the year. Neat, tidy and easy to do.
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But a new friend offered a kind challenge: God could use my small efforts to make a difference in the lives of the kids at Madison House. I just had to go down there. So with three small children in tow, I made lunches for 60ish kids during their summer day camp programs, praying over sliced watermelon and peanut butter sandwiches. With a tiny bit of bravery and lots of hope and encouragement I served lunch alongside my own children to those hungry awesome kids, praying as each one walked passed me grabbing a sandwich, that their bellies would be nourished and their hearts would overflow with the powerful love and healing of Christ. It was a small thing to serve lunch. There were so many ways and opportunities that I could have done more, but those few days changed me. It reminded me that in this great big world, there are thousands of ways to share the love of Jesus right here with the people in our community. I needed my eyes to be open to those around me, beyond my own family and friends, to this community I call home.
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Another volunteer writes: My time volunteering at Madison House has been a true blessing in my life. The children there are bright, loving and in such need of adult attention. Just someone to sit down with them and help them through their homework, encourage them and affirm that they are capable and can do it!! One little guy has taken quite a liking to me. During the year I had an unexpected illness and needed surgery. When I came back after the surgery the relief in his little face was huge. He ran up to me, gave me a big hug and said, “I am so happy you are ok!!” All of the kids are this sweet. I think of one man that brings his sons each day (he speaks no English) and he waits while they do their homework. The son told me that the dad is so happy there is somewhere that he can take the kids so they can get the help they need with their school work because he cannot help them. There is a lot of sadness and heartache in many of these children’s lives and the Madison House is definitely a bright spot for many of them.
A lot of them will come in and say they have no homework, being a mom I recognize that trick and say, oh great , let me see your backpack, right there the back pedaling starts as they ALL have packets of homework :) My favorite anecdote was the one little guy that asked if I was coming to the Halloween Party. (I had been helping the kids for maybe 8 weeks prior to the party) I told him I didn’t think so because I had plans to be out of town and besides I didn’t have a costume. He said, “Oh you don’t need a costume, you ARE Wonderwoman!!!” I laughed and said “Oh I don’t think so”, and he said, “Uh huh only she could make me do my homework and like it.” These kids have blessed me and to put it simply I just love them all!!! To every single one of you who gave, tutored, served, read, hosted, trusted, grew, played, prayed, and loved: Thank you from the bottom of my heart. “My cup brims with blessing.” Psalm 23:5 Love, Jocelyn
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
CAMP GHORMLEY GHORMLEY SUNDAY – MAY 4 On Sunday, May 4, during worship, we will celebrate the work that God has done at Camp Ghormley during its almost 75-year history. But more importantly, we will look forward to what God will do during its next 75 years! A table will be set up in the Garden Room between services where you can ask questions and learn about the many opportunities to partner with Camp Ghormley during the Year of Ghormley, May 2014 – March 2015, and beyond.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Summer Camping Season Around The Corner The summer will soon be upon us. Registration for summer camps has begun. To check out the summer schedule or sign up, go to http://www.ghormleymeadow.org/parents/.
Shift High School Leadership Camp Ghormley is looking for high school students who desire to serve, grow in their faith, and have tons of fun! Come join us for three weeks in our SHIFT program! This program has been described by many as a life-changing experience! For more information or to apply go to http:// www.ghormleymeadow.org/join-our-team/leadership/.
College Summer Staff The Camp is also looking for college students who want to serve God with their summer up at camp, mainly males who want to serve, especially as counselors. Summer staff season runs from June 1st-August 2nd this year, a total of nine weeks. These are paid positions, so you get to have a blast serving God all summer while making money! If you are a college guy looking for work, or you know of someone that might be a good fit, contact the camp at 509 672-4311.
‘SHINE & DINE’ Work Day – May 24 Men - You are invited to a special event on Saturday, May
24th, that will help to usher in “A Year of Celebration- 75 Years at Ghormley Meadow Christian Camp.” This will be a day of service, fellowship and fun. Gather up some friends, rakes, and leaf bags as we spiff up the grounds and get camp whipped into shape in preparation for the 2014 summer camping season. This would be a great opportunity for men’s small groups or multi-generations of families to have fun together while supporting a great organization. We will be assembling on the Meadow at 9:30 A.M. Saturday, May 24th with rakes in hand, perform assigned tasks, then enjoy a free lunch at 12:30 in the dining hall. Contact the camp at 509-672-4311 to let us know you are coming. 16
Women - While the men are busy doing the spring
cleanup at Camp Ghormley on Saturday, May 24th, the ladies are invited to “Plant Ghormley” as part of the “Shine and Dine” day at the camp.
So ask a few of your friends to accompany you or come up with the men. Bring your favorite plantings and beautify the campgrounds. There are 8 areas waiting for your creative touch and green thumbs. Lunch will be provided for those who participate; it is important that we know who is coming up that day so we can make plans for lunch. Either sign up at the Connection Center on Ghormley Sunday, May 4th, or at the Ghormley table which will be manned for the Ministry Fair, Sunday May 18th.
HOW YOU CAN BE INVOLVED WITH GHORMLEY
Please thoughtfully consider how you might partner with Ghormley this year and come talk to us on Sunday morning, May 4 in the Garden Room. Here are some ideas:
Prayer & Partner Opportunities • Prayer for Ghormley staff as they prepare for the summer camping season. The theme for summer is “Time Traveler – Revisit the Past, Embrace the Future” • Hiring summer staff • Preparing camp facilities • Develop programs for summer camps • For the Ghormley Commission as they: • Plan and facilitate events and activities for the Year of Ghormley • Look at capital improvements for the camp over the next several years
Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Volunteer – Contact Joe Buckley, (cell) 961-1295 • • • • • • •
(home) 697-8729, jcbuckley2@fairpoint.net Ghormley Work Days are scheduled for the 2nd Saturday of each month camp to provide maintenance of facilities and grounds Adopt-A-Cabin Adopt-A-Flower Bed “Shine and Dine” Men’s Work Day on May 24 Host guest groups Help with activities and events that will be part of the Year of Ghormley Financially support Camp Ghormley through operating funds, camp scholarships & memorials
Camp Scholarships The camp is running low on camper scholarship funds, which help many students come to camp each summer. We ask that you would prayerfully consider giving towards this, so we can continue to minister to as many youth as possible during our summer camp season! You can give online, http://www.ghormleymeadow.org/join-our-team/ donate-to-ghormley/ or by sending a check to Camp Ghormley or through the church office.
Cabin Spotlight - Ponderosa
One of the cabins most in need of adoption is the Ponderosa, which has been the host of many retreats and groups from Grace of Christ. Here are some of the “honey do” items at Ponderosa. This is perfect way for your family or small group to work on a project together. • • • • • • • •
Door jamb framing on back glass doors Repair broken windows and screens Deck benches repainted Weather/critter proof main room Clean ceiling cobwebs Clean and deodorize furnace room Paint rooms and hallways Bathrooms – shower curtains, mirrors, dressing area curtains • Minor repairs/additions/removals of fixtures Tell us your Camp Ghormley Stories As part of this year-long celebration, we want to hear your stories about Camp Ghormley. Forms will be available at the Connection Center or you can email your stories to Kathy Mathison, kmathison@yvn.com.
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Dear Church Family, Thank you for the opportunity to serve you all these past four years! However, although several people have asked me to stay, the time has come to move on to another calling which the Lord has presented to me. I have freely decided to leave GCPC, and wish for people to celebrate my departure and the future God has in store for me. Furthermore, I would like to let you know just how hard the entire staff works. I have never before seen such dedication, not only to the tasks at hand, but to the furthering of the Kingdom. At every meeting and discussion, the core focus is always “What is the best thing to do for God’s Glory, and the spreading of the Gospel?” Every single staff member is wonderfully suited for the work they do, and frequently delivers far more than is asked of them. It has been an honor to work with them. For some time now I have felt a pull, to serve the people of the Valley as a self-employed computer repairman. This transition is nothing short of a leap of faith as I do not yet have enough clients to be successful. However, I have witnessed in my life that God does indeed provide in marvelous and divine ways. Especially since I will now serve Him by ministering to people in a very personal way, and illustrating to my community how a man should conduct business in a Christ like fashion. How can such seemingly menial work be used for God’s glory, and growth of the Kingdom? Well, do not computers allow us to communicate in amazing ways? Do we not spread the Gospel and minister to others near and far with these wonderful tools which God has inspired His children to create? When they don’t work is that not an attack of the enemy? I now get to use my talents to keep those lines of communication open. I invite you to take a moment to look at how God uses the seemingly unrelated things in your life to further His Kingdom and spread His good news. We are all part of the Body of Christ. Thank you for doing your part, and thank you for allowing me serve to in the office. Curt Rozenkranz
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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church
Student Ministries — Pastor Jeff Murray The Summer Interns are Coming Each year our church has the opportunity to train and equip summer interns for youth ministry. This is a great way for us to have an impact on the lives of young adults while at the same time building relationships between young adults and 6th-12th grade students. God has given each one of them ministry gifts and energy to nurture kids. They begin work on June 15th so be sure to introduce yourself. Peace in Jesus Christ, — Jeff Murray
KYLIE GLOVER Having grown up in the church – this church, specifically – it’s been a lifelong goal of mine to be a summer intern (if not lifelong, at least since the fourth grade). This summer, the stars finally aligned such that I will be able to spend my time working in relational ministry, lovin’ some youths. When I’m not poking fun at Jeff Murray, I’m a student at Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies within Western Washington University (if the name evokes images of barefooted young adults playing guitar and hacky sack in sunny courtyards on their time off from working in a co-op grocery store, you’ve got the right idea), studying nursing and creative writing.
ESTEVAN MATA My name is Estevan Mata, I am a graduate from Davis High School. I regularly attend our youth group as a middle school leader. I enjoy being involved in youth ministry because it makes me feel like I am doing something useful that will benefit not only me but everyone involved. I did this internship last year as a part-time intern and this time I will be doing a full time internship. I am excited to be more involved with the events that will be happening and also just to further learn more about God and learning more of what the bible has to say.
LIAM JOHNSTON Hello, I’m Liam Johnston. I’m studying Biology at Eastern Washington University. Last year was an absolute blast working with the youth as an intern. I loved spending time with the students that I’ve grown so close with. I’m really excited to work as an intern again and create more unforgettable memories.
JOHNNY SCHOFIELD I mainly want to be involved in order to vivify the lives of kids through the beauty and truth of the gospel- to show them just how superlatively fascinating this world in which we live can be, and indeed is; it is the glorious creation of God! My ultimate desire is to energize their lives with the truth of God’s endless love, and promote a positive outlook in their burgeoning young minds. Youth Ministry is an area of unending opportunities that make it possible to shape malleable young hearts and minds for a lifetime of healthy living- by striving for the holy and wholly wonderful heart and mind of God in Christ. 19
GRACE OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 9 S 8TH AVENUE YAKIMA, WA 98902
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