Northland News Vol 10/Iss 12

Distributed Journeys 2009 Be Sent to Serve

In the era in which we live,

we have an historic opportunity to move out, connect with and minister to people like never before.

God has blessed Northland with incredible partners around the world who are working among those who are the outcast, the poor and the lost. Through our partners we are able to touch lives and be transformed ourselves through the ministry that can take place on a short-term mission trip. There is great potential for ministry and for our lives to be changed if we are willing to be activated for service. What will it take for you to move? What will it take for you to open yourself up to the possibility that God might want you to go?

Alabama Trip 2

Dates: March 31-April 9 Estimated Cost: $180 Team Leader: Bud Abt (bud.abt@northlandchurch.net)

Now is the time

to step forward and see if this is something God is calling you to do. Will you be obedient to His calling on your life? Will you be willing to step out of the comfort of the world you live in to transform lives and to be transformed yourself? Now is your chance. We dare you to move!

What is a Distributed Journey?

Northland’s short-term mission trips are referred to as Distributed Journeys because as a church, we believe that we are called to action to distribute ourselves and our gifts outside of the church, into the community and around the world. We believe that in the process, God will shape us, teach us and lead us on a personal journey with Him as well.

A Distributed Journey could well be considered a life-changing event that helps us see God at work around the world, helps discern God’s call on us, and helps prepare us for service.

To best serve others nationally and globally, we offer various types of Distributed Journeys to numerous locations. Teams may be categorized as mixed (all age levels, including children), youth (primarily high school or middle school students), or adult (age 18 and over). Teams will vary in size, age category, and ministry focus. Typically, the focus will include one or more of the following: • C hildren’s programs—including ministry to orphans or street children, Vacation Bible School, preschool classes, drama and puppets • Youth programs—including sports camps, language camps, outreach programs, and concerts • Medical ministry—including help with physical and dental care, and taking supplies • Education—including teaching English, business concepts, the Bible, AIDS awareness, relational issues, and practical skills • Construction/painting—including rebuilding chapels and homes for victims of natural disasters, and constructing community centers • Mercy ministries—including feeding programs, street ministry, hospital visitations, care for AIDS orphans, and community development • Practical needs—including personal care, life skills, collection and distribution of clothes, gifts

What are the steps to taking a Distributed Journey?

Anyone considering a Distributed Journey should: 1) Begin praying for the Lord’s leading.

2) Check out the various trips listed here or at Northland’s website (www.northlandchurch.net).

3) Contact the team leader for specific team information.

4) Download an application online.

5) Commit to fully participating as a team member.

Brazil Trip 1 and 2

(Open to families with children ages 12 and up, college students and adults) Dates: June 6-14; and August 23-31 Estimated Cost: $2,250 Team Leader: Felipe Santos (acts1.8@earthlink.net) Application Deadlines: Brazil 1: April 25 Brazil 2: June 23

Camp ToKnowHim is the destination of this Distributed Journey. The team will travel to the youth camp to continue construction on the camp facilities.

Open to junior-high students accompanied by parents and all other adults, this team will be supplied with all the necessary materials, tools and direction to complete the desired projects. It is not necessary to have any construction experience. The camp will act as the lodging for the team and participants will also have opportunities for horseback riding, hiking in some unusual terrain, shopping at a unique store that sells items left in unclaimed baggage at deeply discounted prices, and local cultural activities.

Team participants can expect to have an amazing experience as they travel by boat down the Amazon River or Rio Negro River to visit small villages, and demonstrate the love of God to those in need. In addition to ministering through medical, dental and triage teams, they will have opportunities to minister to children, to repair and fix up homes, to cut hair, and, most importantly, to tell others how they can come to know the Lord.

Distributing toys and clothes will be part of this eight-day trip, as well. Although the majority of the trip will involve living and traveling on a houseboat, the team also will attend a worship service in the city of Manaus and visit a local street market.

Trip 3

(Open to high school, college students and adults) Dates: August 6-16 Estimated Cost: $2,450 Team Leader: Nathan Clark (nathan.clark@northlandchurch.net) Application Deadline: June 6 Joining a soccer ministry in Manaus, Brazil that ministers to thousands of poor children weekly is the focus of this mission trip.

The team will run a Soccer Camp in a Vacation Bible School-type ministry setting. Loving kids—and hot-weather conditions—and having a good knowledge of soccer and athletics are strongly recommended for team participants.

Dominican Republic Trip 1

(Youth trip – middle and high school students, adults) Dates: June 21-29 Estimated Cost: $1,200 Team Leaders: Lori and Karl Droppers (kdroppers@cfl.rr.com) Application Deadline: April 21 Participants will continue God’s work by building a chapel, conducting Vacation Bible School and hosting other children’s programs. A great first-time journey, this trip will include cultural exposure and worship in a local church. Participants will have opportunities to share personal testimonies and will be challenged as they witness the vast material poverty while also experiencing the sweetness of the nationals and the host ministry.

Trip 2

(Open to families with children of all ages) Dates: July 20-27 Estimated Cost: $1,100 Team Leaders: Becky and Steve Weldon (beckyweldon12@hotmail.com) Application Deadline: May 20 This trip is an excellent trip for families with children and first-time mission trip participants. Working with the New Missions missionaries, the team will participate in activities of all kinds: baseball, dominoes, popular local games, spending time with the local residents, attending Spanish and English speaking church services and block parties, making and serving food, performing puppet shows, children’s music, and decorating community spaces to improve surroundings. The team stays at an all-inclusive resort on the beach within five minutes of most activities.

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED

Welcome, First-Time Visitors

Learn about our vision, mission and core values.

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Mentoring Ministry

Men, help change the lives of fatherless boys.

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MARCH 21 - 28, 2009

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VOLUME 10, ISSUE 12

Jail Ministry

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Northland’s prison outreach is expanding.

To t rave l up t he s lo w a n d s t o n y ro a d To Calvar y, t o red eem m a n k i n d ; fa r bet t er To make bu t o n e res plen d en t m i r a c le, L e an t hro u gh t h e c lo u d , li ft t h e r i gh t h a n d of po w e r A nd wi t h a s u d d en li gh t n i n g s m i t e t h e wo r ld pe r f e ct .

Ye t th i s wa s n o t Go d ’ s wa y, W h o h a d t h e po we r, B ut s et i t by, c h o o s i n g t h e c ro s s , t h e t h o r n , The s o r ro wfu l wo u n d s . So m et h i n g t h ere i s , pe r ha p s , That po wer d es t ro ys i n pa s s i n g, s o m et h i n g su p re m e , To wh o s e great v a lu e i n t h e eyes of Go d Th at c ro s s , t h at t h o r n , a n d t h o s e fi v e wo u nd s b e a r w i t ne s s .

NEXT WEEKEND: Dr. Joel C. Hunter | Lenten Season - Week 5 | Elements of Salvation | Final Sacrifice | 1 Peter 2:24; Romans 6:23

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Dorothy L. Sayers ( 1 89 3 -1 9 57)

www.northlandchurch.net

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What’s Happening This Week?

*Concurrent worship with other sites (cc) Child care provided (hi) Hearing-impaired interpretation

LONGWOOD SITE .............................................................................

MOUNT DORA SITE .............................................................................

Saturday, MARCH 21

SUNday, MARCH 22

4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Prayer Meeting Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 LUGRox Infant Dedication/Baptism Class Couples Café

SUNday, MARCH 22

7:30 am 8:30 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 10:45 am 10:45 am 10:45 am 10:45 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 4:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:15 pm

Prayer Meeting (cc) Marriage Prep Class Worship (cc)* (hi) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 Romans Study Transformers Study (cc) Connection Groups (cc) The Bible Relevant Now! Class (cc) Financial Peace University Worship (cc)* Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 Special Needs Class 24/7 The Gathering Singles Small Group Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 College Ministry

Monday, MARCH 23

9:45 am 10:00 am 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm

Beth Moore Study (cc) Precepts Class (cc) Post Marriage 911 Study (cc) Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 Connection Groups (cc) Faithful and True Men’s Group

TUESday, MARCH 24

10:00 am 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:15 pm

Grief Support Group GriefShare (cc) AMEN Divorce Care Employment Network Word Weavers Praxis (cc)

WEDNEsday, MARCH 25

6:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

O2 Rally Beth Moore Study (cc) LENTEN Worship Life Teachings of Jesus Care Minister Training Connection Groups Faith and Science

THURsday, MARCH 26 6:00 am 6:30 am 6:30 am 6:30 am 10:00 am 12:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Men’s Fraternity Men’s Bible Study Men’s Praise and Prayer Women’s Prayer Co-op Bible Study (cc) Connection Groups Beth Moore Study Precepts Men’s Fraternity His Way

Friday, March 27

5:45 am 7:00 pm

Doulos Superchick Concert

Saturday, MARCH 28

8:00 am 12:30 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:30 pm

Mentoring Seminar Beth Moore Study Prayer Meeting Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 LUGRox

Prayer Room Sanctuary ECW CWW SMCC 4206-7 Nature’s Table Café Prayer Room The Rink/SMCC Sanctuary ECW CWW 4213 F.Hall/SMCC 4205,4210 4209 4206-7 Sanctuary ECW CWW CWW The Rink/SMCC 4206-8 Sanctuary ECW CWW The Rink/SMCC 4204-10 4213-15 4210 Sanctuary ECW CWW 4206-7 1118/SMCC 1112/SMCC 1118/SMCC 4206-7 4205,8,9,10 5106-7/CWW F.Hall/SMCC 4204 SMCC 4204,6-7,8,15 Sanctuary 4213 4210 4205,9,14,17 5106-7/CWW 1111/SMCC 1118/SMCC 1104/SMCC 1116/SMCC 4212-14 1111/SMCC 4206-7 4212-14 4128 F.Hall/SMCC 1101-1102/SMCC The Rink/SMCC The Rink/SMCC 4213-15 Prayer Room Sanctuary ECW CWW SMCC

9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:30 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am

Worship (cc)* Infants/Walkers Classes for 2 year olds Classes for 3’s - K’s Grade School Ministry CREW352 Youth Bible Study Worship (cc)* Infants/Walkers Classes for 2 year olds Classes for 3’s - K’s Grade School Ministry

TUESday, MARCH 24

6:30 am 6:30 pm 7:00 pm

Men’s Bible Fellowship Bowling League Celebrate Recovery (cc)

Sanctuary Room 15 Room 15 Room 1 Rooms 2, 3 Youth Room Sanctuary Room 15 Room 15 Room 1 Rooms 2, 3 Rooms 2, 3 Triangle Lanes, Mount Dora Calvary Chapel

WEDNEsday, MARCH 25

9:30 am 10:00 am 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Women’s Bible Study Homeschool Play Group Gathering 2:42 CREW352 Lenten Study

THURsday, MARCH 26 7:00 pm

Ladies Night Out

Rooms 2, 3 TBD F.Hall Sanctuary Simmonds home Chilis, Mount Dora

OVIEDO SITE .............................................................................

SUNday, MARCH 22

9:00 am Worship (cc)* 9:00 am Infants 9:00 am Classes for 2’s - 3’s 9:00 am Classes for 4’s - K’s 11:00 am Worship (cc)* 11:00 am Infants - 2’s 11:00 am Classes for 3’s - 4’s 11:00 am K’s - Grade School 11:00 am AXIS: Middle School Small Groups 6:00 pm AXIS: High School Ministry 6:00 pm Lenten Study (Couples)

Monday, MARCH 23

7:00pm Lenten Study (Ladies) 7:30 pm Bible Study — 1 Corinthians

TUESday, MARCH 24

6:30 am 7:00 pm

Lenten Study (Men) Lenten Study (Couples)

WEDNEsday, MARCH 25

6:30 pm 2nd- to 5th-Grade Bible Study 7:00 pm LENTEN Worship 7:45 pm Lenten Study (All)

Saturday, MARCH 28 3:00 pm

Cowboy Bowl

Auditorium 9-109 9-105 8-107 Auditorium 9-109 9-107 8-107 9-105 NOCC Cluxton home

9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 10:30 am 10:30 am

Worship (cc)* Infant Care Crawler Care Class for 2’s – 3’s Class for 4’s – 5’s Class for K’s – 1st graders Class for 2nd – 5th graders Middle Sunday School Class Adult Sunday School Classes

WEDNEsday, MARCH 25 7:00 pm

Lenten Study

Saturday, MARCH 28 7:00 am 7:00 pm

Men’s in the Word Lenten Study

Easter Service Times

There will be no ticketing this year.

Seating will be on a first-come, firstserved basis. Overflow at Longwood will be available at The Rink in the Student Ministries and Care Center.

Longwood (and WebStream) Saturday, April 11. . . . 5 and 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 12 . . . . . 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.,

and 6 p.m.

Monday, April 13 . . . . . 7 p.m. mount dora, oviedo and west oaks Sunday, April 12 . . . . . 9 and 11 a.m.

There will be no Early Childhood or Grade School programs for the Easter services. Child care will be available for children age 3 and younger at all Northland sites. Check-in begins 30 minutes prior to service time.

good friday service Longwood (and WebStream) Friday, April 10, noon Child care will not be provided.

Details: Congregational Services (info@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4000)

Harrington home Welday home NOCC Wiest home Cox home NOCC NOCC Boardwalk Bowl

WEST OAKS SITE .............................................................................

SUNday, MARCH 22

(ECW) Early Childhood Wing (CWW) Children’s Worship Wing (SMCC) Student Ministries and Care Center

Chapel 215 215 211 213 104/F.Hall 104/F.Hall Conference Room Sanctuary/F.Hall Smith home see page 13 Szrom home

Distributed Sites @ Home

Are you interested in starting a distributed site in your home or another setting? If so, contact Dan Lacich (407367-9612 or dan.lacich@northlandchurch.net).

JOIN any of these worship sites:

Kissimmee/St. Cloud First and third Sundays of each month, 11 a.m.

1000 Costa Mesa Lane, Kissimmee Located in the Lago Buendia subdivision, located off I-92 and Partin Settlement Road. Details: Kristen Dusseau (407-247-6030) or Michael Dusseau (407-761-8846) New Smyrna Beach Sundays, 5:45 p.m.

528 Oliver Drive, New Smyrna Beach Join Cynthia and Richard Hines in their home for worship.

Details: Cynthia and Richard Hines (386-663-4370) North Carolina Saturdays, 4:30 p.m.

Klaus home, 200 W. 14th St., Salisbury, NC Join Laurie and Tim Klaus in their home for worship.

Details: Laurie and Tim Klaus (704-636-5966 or pianolauriek@yahoo.com)

PRAY for our concurrent prison worship: Seminole County John E. Polk Correctional Facility Sundays, 9 a.m.

Serving the men’s dorms.

Details: Jail ministry voicemail (407-949-4007) Orange County 33rd Street Correctional Facility Sundays, 9 a.m., DVD Serving the women’s Christian dorm.

Details: Jail ministry voicemail (407-949-4007)

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ABOUT Northland ..............................................................................

a welcome to first-time visitors .............................................................................................................................................................

Our Vision To see people coming to Christ and growing in Him as we link local and global communities for ministry and worship everywhere, every day.

At Northland, we always open our worship services by saying, “Thank you for bringing the church into these rooms!” Why? Because Northland is a church distributed, gathering in Longwood, Mount Dora, Oviedo and West Oaks, and at more than 1,000 sites worldwide via the Web. In other words, it isn’t the physical structure or the many programs that make up the church ... it’s people like you. You are the church. And it’s our goal to help you to be the church ... everywhere, every day.

Our Mission To call people to know and follow Christ and equip them to worship and serve together.

Thank you for joining us today to worship God for who He is and what He has done. “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 1:2, NIV).

Our Core Values Worship, Spiritual Formation, Personal generational Leadership and Partnership.

Please pick up a visitor card from one of the ushers or at the Welcome Center so that we can learn more about you and help you to connect to the many classes, groups and opportunities to serve with others.

Ministry,

Inter-

Worship Times Saturdays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 p.m.

Sundays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9*, 11 a.m.**; 6 p.m.

Mondays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 p.m. * Concurrent among Longwood, Mount Dora, Oviedo and West Oaks sites ** Concurrent among Longwood, Mount Dora and Oviedo sites

coming up .............................................................................................................................................................

Children’s Church (Grades 1 – 5) Saturdays, 5 p.m.; Sundays, 9 and 11 a.m., 6 p.m.; and Mondays, 7 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing.

Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten) Saturdays, 5 p.m.; Sundays, 9 and 11 a.m., 6 p.m.; and Mondays, 7 p.m., Early Childhood Wing.

Infant and Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2) Saturdays, 5 p.m.; Sundays, 9 and 11 a.m., 6 p.m.; and Mondays, 7 p.m., Early Childhood Wing.

Sunday School for Children with Special Needs (Age 3 – Kindergarten) Sundays at 11 a.m., Early Childhood Wing.

(Grades 1 – 5) Sundays at 11 a.m., Children’s Worship Wing.

Join us for LIVE Webstream Worship at www.northlandchurch.net.

TABLE OF CONTENTS ..............................................................................

2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What’s Happening This Week?

3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Welcome / Coming Up 4-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spotlight News / Site News 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Serve News 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student Ministries 8-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The BeeHive Worship Guide for Kids 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Equipping News 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BELONG

12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BELIEVE

12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BECOME

12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BE SENT

13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BEYOND 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stewardship 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Directory 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sermon Notes

NORTHLAND NEWS ..............................................................................

Publish His glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things He does. (Psalm 96:3, NLT) Send newspaper correspondence to: newspaper@northlandchurch.net Newspaper Staff Dede Caruso, Coordinator/Production Artist Melissa Bogdany, Copy Editor Robert Andrescik, Director of Public Relations Connie Rainwater, Contributing Writer Tracy Bardwell, Production Artist Newspaper Volunteers Becky Hunter, Editor-at-Large Jeff Hawkins (www.jeffhawkins.com), Photographer Sarah Hall, Photographer Bob Wegner, Photographer Rick Bradshaw, Photographer

EasterLilies O R D E R

F O R M

Purchase an Easter lily in the name of a loved one and help decorate Northland for this holy season. A list of those honored and memorialized will appear in the Easter edition of the Northland News. If you attend Mount Dora, Oviedo or West Oaks, you may pick up your purchased lilies after the service you attend. Longwood attendees may pick up their purchased lilies Tuesday, April 14 through Thursday, April 16, 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Any lilies not picked up will be donated to local nursing homes. To order, fill out this form and place it, along with $7 per lily, in an offering box. Or, you may mail your payment to Northland, A Church Distributed, 530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750.

All orders must be received by Monday, March 30.

Honor or memorialize someone you love.

Northland worship site: [ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] West Oaks In honor of:__________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ In memory of:_ _______________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Given by:_ ___________________________________________ ____________________________________________________

news@mountdora

spotlightnews

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Northland to Partner With Ministry to Reach Fatherless Boys

By Dave Keys Mentor Coordinator

K

evin* was in middle school when we met.

I don’t remember how he ended up at the church, but his mom was not saved and was dating a man who sold drugs and partied.

She loved her son and was trying to find an environment that was less toxic than the one in which he lived. Kevin admitted to smoking pot and drinking and was pretty hard on the outside.

He had limited contact with his dad, who was a drug user, and his life was in turmoil. Kevin was a smart kid. He knew how to play the game to survive and get what he needed.

I will never forget one Sunday evening at church; Kevin was having a bad day and walked out. When I found him, he was sitting on the steps, angry with everything and everyone. He planned to get high and drunk that night. We talked for a while, but nothing I said would penetrate until it was placed on my heart to tell Sam that God and I loved him. When those words came out, I witnessed a physical and emotional change that broke the hardness and opened his heart.

With tears in his eyes, he said no man had ever told him that before.

We agreed that if Sam would stay sober the entire week, I would take him to Disney World the next weekend.

He did, and we had a great time!

America is reaching a crisis regarding teenage crime, suicide, drug and alcohol use, prison population and

Bill Chapman Northland at Mount Dora Site Minister

Life in the Fasting Lane

W

hen given a choice, which lane do you drive in? Do you take the safe, steady, secure right lane? Or being ever-anxious to arrive at your next destination, do you prefer the left? I ask, but this column isn’t about your driving habits. It is about fasting.

This spring we Northlanders have made much ado about Lent. One of the spiritual disciplines that believers have historically practiced during Lent is fasting. I actually write this column to you in the midst of a fast of my own. I am doing a three-day fruit and vegetable fast.

Fasting is a common practice in Scripture, both in the Old and the New Testaments. In Elmer Towns’ book Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough, he takes different passages of Scripture and teaches how God’s people today can seek the Lord through the intentional self-denial. I think the key for us is to begin fasting so that we can become more intimate with the Lord. That is one of the ironic things about fasting. Whether you abstain from food or drink, exercise or entertainment, the discomfort that you experience actually paves the way for you to draw closer to God. With distracting questions like, Where should I go for lunch? or, When can I get to the gym? or, What should we watch tonight? out of the way, there is more space in your schedule and your heart to commune with the Holy Spirit.

Pastor Joel recently taught us about the work of

sexual abuse due to fatherlessness. Tonight 46 million children will go to bed in a home without their biological father. The likelihood that a young male will engage in criminal activity doubles if he is raised without a father. He is 24.3 times more likely to run away, 10.8 times more likely to commit rape, and 15.3 times more likely to end up in prison while a teenager. Sadly, 63 percent of youth suicides are from fatherless homes.

Twenty years ago, Josh McDowell observed that the biggest challenge America will face in the future is the absence of fathers in the home. What can we do to reverse the fatherless trend?

Author Donald Miller of Blue Like Jazz says, “The hope for the American crisis of fatherlessness was under our noses all this time; that hope being the church.” He went on to state, “We can solve the crime issue in America if we resolve the fatherless issue.”

In his book Every Man’s a Mentor, Sam Mehafie quotes William Raspberry, a columnist for The Washington Post: “If I could offer a single prescription for survival of America, it would be to restore the family.” Sam adds: “And if you asked me how to do it, my answer – doubtlessly oversimplified — would be: save the boys.” We need men who are willing to “stand in the gap” for our boys, to help boys reach their potential.

Northland is excited to partner with The Mentoring Project, a ministry founded by Donald Miller and Wade Trimmer, to reach

the Holy Spirit, and he highlighted Acts 13:1-3. Several leaders of the on-fire church in Antioch were “worshiping the Lord and fasting” (v. 2a). They were adoring God with their bodies and available to Him with their minds. And in their openness, they heard the voice of the Lord speak, saying “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them” (v. 2b). Thousands of people were saved during their two-year missionary journey. And it simply started with a handful of men practicing the spiritual discipline of fasting.

Are you in a spiritual rut? Are you weary of the same old same old? Do you long to connect more deeply with the Holy Spirit? Give fasting a try. You can fast from anything (don’t do like Dr. Steve Brown and fast from okra and liver, though!).

Pick something that you know you will miss. Start small, a half-day or daylong fast. If you are pregnant, nursing a baby, diabetic, or have other medical problems, enter the spirit of fasting, but remain on your essential diet. And as soon as that yearning begins to hit, fulfill that need with prayer, with the Word of God and with friends. Oh, one more thing: Enter your fast expecting to hear from the Lord.

The words of James are so true: “Come near to God and he will come near to you” (James 4:8). Such is life in the fasting lane! >>> MOUNTDORA.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

Minister Bill Chapman’s sermon from March 1 is available for download at: www.northlandchurch.net/services

Spring Spruce-Up

at The Carpenter’s House for Children Saturday, april 11 9 a.m. to noon Yard work, gardening and window washing.

Details: Ann South (352-267-3388 or south4@comcast.net)

fatherless boys in the Orlando area. We are committing not only to begin our own ministry, but also to assist in equipping area churches to start mentoring. The Mentoring Project’s goal is to partner with 1,000 churches to equip 10,000 men for mentoring. The church needs to be the leader in this social crisis. Men, it’s time we get out of the classroom, small groups, tool sheds and easy chairs, and become involved.

We, the church, can change the course of our society.

Through mentoring, there is hope. A mentored child is 46 percent less likely to use drugs, 53 percent less likely to skip school, 59 percent more likely to improve grades and 33 percent less likely to resort to violence. Hope can be given to a young man by investing a couple of hours a week to listening and being available. It is as simple as sharing your experiences and faith and enjoying activities with a fatherless boy. In the book of James, we are instructed “to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” One way to follow his command is by mentoring fatherless boys.

Northland invites all men to join us in establishing a mentoring ministry this year. Please consider attending a training class, led by Wade Trimmer of The Mentoring Project, on Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, we are hosting two information sessions — on Friday, March 27 from 7 to 8 p.m., or March 28 from 8 to 9 a.m.

We lost touch with Kevin until a couple of years ago, when a friend ran into him. He said he was doing well and wanted to thank those of us who had invested in him. I have had the privilege of mentoring many young men over the past 20 years and seeing them mature into firemen, soldiers, policemen and college graduates, and get married and begin their own families. Changing the course of society is within our reach; all it takes is reaching out to our boys.

God’s grace and power has given me the opportunity to see lives change. Won’t you allow God to open your heart and work through you to equip these young men? The need is great, and the workers are few. Lives will change — theirs and yours. * Name has been changed.

Aaliyah Sandheinrich greets people with a smile.

See page 14 for Mount Dora’s monthly

L VE COLLECTION Details: Ann South (south4@comcast.net or 352-267-3388) or Sharlee Hollingsworth (shollingsworth2@cfl.rr.com)

Gathering 2:42 WedNESDAY, april 15 6-8:30 p.m., FH/Sanctuary An evening of food, fellowship, worship and prayer More info under BELONG on page 11.

Details: Bill Chapman (bill.chapman@northlandchurch. net or 352-434-4116)

news@oviedo

5 JEREMY JOBSON Northland at Oviedo Site Minister

Grace

W

hy a one-word title? Because this one word is so huge that it should be in big bold letters across every page, every week: G-R-A-C-E! That would still fall short of the necessary attention that should be drawn to this word. This word is at the core of and the heart of our faith: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). It is the beginning, the end and the only possibility for us all. I have heard some define grace as receiving what you do not deserve, or better yet, not receiving what you do deserve. Both are accurate, but somehow do not convey the immensity of this thought.

How do I explain the incomprehensible? I often learn more about the great things from the simple things like parenting.

My wife, Maggie, and I had some great advice on disciplining given to us in the form of a story by a friend that I think sheds some light on this.

He encouraged us to teach our little ones, Zoe and Matt, with the Law. There are rules our kids must learn to live by while they are under our authority. There are mutually understood consequences for the breaking of those laws.

There are also blessings for abiding by those laws.

Discipline is always done out of love. This love and discipline is greater than any situation or emotions we or they may have in the moment and must be done, as it says so many times in the Old Testament, especially in Deuteronomy, “so that it will go well with you.” We learned a saying for

discipline in our home: bad, fast, every time. Disciplining when it is harder on us or them is when it is most necessary for both. A better understanding of the Law comes with experiences, both bad and good, from both obedience and disobedience.

Then, as our children get older and begin to display reason, consciences and decision-making, we begin to enter into the discipline of grace. How do you do that? Our friend suggested that because the Law had been given and followed through on a consistent basis, his kids knew what they were doing and what ought to happen to them because of it.

So when a particular instance occurred and his daughter had behaved in a way that was clearly disobedient and in defiance of the Law in their home, he seized the chance to move into the discipline of grace. He arrived home to learn of the disobedience, and his daughter came to him crying and expecting the consequences she deserved, and he simply asked her to get in the car. He then took her to her favorite restaurant, asking her about her day, school and so on, not making mention of the incident.

They ate, and the girl began to think she had gotten away with something, but the gnawing started in her stomach, and she soon broke down crying, confessing and asking for his forgiveness. This is when she was met with his warm embrace. He affirmed her that she was already forgiven. They discussed what happened, and then he ordered her favorite dessert for her. She was overwhelmed by his love and was convicted to the core in a way the Law only pointed to. She was different because of this new form of discipline, forever.

Grace is the display of love to such a degree that all that is happening around us seems upside down and foreign, what ought to be occurring is not, and the last thing we thought would have taken place has, in fact, ensued.

What is up is down, left is right, and our punishment and impending doom is met instead with the gift of salvation and righteousness.

The questions we must address then are: Do we have the gnawing in our gut that tells us we are guilty? Do we know that our sin has not been lost or forgotten or somehow overlooked and gotten away with? Do we know that our Father has, in fact, prosecuted and judged every

one of us for our actions, even the many sins we do not recall or would admit to? Do we know how, where, when and upon whom all this has happened? Jesus Christ bore the sins for the entire world, yours and mine included, at Calvary almost 2,000 years ago. This is what we lament and remember throughout Lent and what we are preparing to celebrate at Easter! May we never forget! >>> OVIEDO.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

Minister Jeremy Jobson’s sermon from March 1 is available for download at: www.northlandchurch.net/services

NEXT WEEKEND!

Cowboy Bowl

Volunteer Appreciation Party Saturday, March 28, 3-5 p.m., Boardwalk Bowl (10749 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando)

Hang up your boots and grab some bowling shoes as we celebrate YOU! All new and current volunteers and their families are invited to join us. RSVP by Wednesday, March 25.

Details and RSVP: Amanda Hartley (amanda.hartley@ northlandchurch.net or 407-222-7374)

2nd- to 5th-grade Bible Study: “What Is Sin?” Wednesday, march 25 6:30-8 p.m., Cox home

THIS WEEK!

This is the second of a four-part study series for students to learn more about the four core truths of the Christian faith. Details and RSVP: Children’s check-in desk or Michelle Smith (michelle. smith@northlandchurch.net or 407-718-5510)

news@westoaks TOMMY NOVAK Northland at West Oaks Site Minister

Spring is in the Air

F

ill in the blank: SPRING _____________________________________ .

I say “spring training.” My daughter Nikki says “spring fever.” Patti, my wife, says “spring in my step.” She actually has some flip-flops that are made to put a spring in her step! This time of year, most students would say “spring break.” What do you say? “Spring is in the air,” “spring rain,” or maybe “spring awakening,” like google.com says?

Whatever comes to mind, spring is usually associated with excitement and fun and new life. God’s word sure has many encouraging words to offer us about new life.

• 2 Corinthians 5:17 says: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”

• Then there’s John 5:24: “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.”

• In John 1:12, we read: “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” • Here are a few more verses for you to look

up on your own and think about: 1 John 5:1112; John 5:21; 10:28. Then find at least one “life” verse of your own.

So, since spring is in the air, let’s live our lives (both in our own hearts and outside our West Oaks walls) with a newness that people notice. According to dictionary.com, spring is “to rise, leap, move, or act suddenly and swiftly, as by a sudden dart or thrust forward or outward, or being suddenly released from a coiled or constrained position.”

New life in Christ is that way: unconstrained.

LIFE OUTSIDE THE WALLS THIS WEEK: Saturday, March 28, we will be tearing a roof off The Regina House, a home for women in recovery.

Need five to eight “construction-type” workers.

Details: Patti Novak (352-989-7478) Saturday, April 18 is Fusion/West Oaks. Sign-up and details: Marilee Foreman (thesub@cfl.rr.com) April 24 to 26 is a family work weekend at Southwind, A Young Life Camp. Details: Vanessa Puleo (407-949-7256 or vanessa.puleo@northlandchurch. net)

>>> WESTOAKS.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

Minister Tommy Novak’s sermon from March 1 is available for download at: www.northlandchurch.net/services

Ladies Night Out MONday, march 30, 7 p.m.

Farris and Foster’s

NEXT WEEK!

Gather together with other West Oaks women for a night of fun and chocolate.

Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika. hacker@northlandchurch.net)

Sunday School Classes For adults and middle schoolers sundays, beginning march 22 Dig into God’s Word while connecting with others.

Topics will cover the book of John, parenting and more. Info on pages 12 and 13.

THIS WEEKEND!

Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika. hacker@northlandchurch.net)

Tools at Your Service!

Know someone (even if it’s you) who could use a hand with something? No job is too big or too small. Our team of volunteers will fix, repair, paint, move furniture, or do other tasks.

To make a request or join the team, contact Kip Conway (407-595-0008 or 321-460-2546).

servenews

6

Jail Ministry Expanding Orientation and Training Set for April 25

By GRETCHEN KERR Director of Local Service

A

new ministry opportunity is available to serve with or support the Northland Jail Ministry teams. Over the past months, two distinct ministry teams have been forming, growing and developing. The success has been tremendous, and the need remains great. We are ready to take the next steps in growing the ministry teams in order to serve a larger population of inmates.

We are working in partnership with Orange County Jail Ministries when serving the women at the Orange County Correctional Facility and with Good News Jail Ministry when serving the men at the Seminole County Correctional Facility. Northland supports both of these wonderful ministries with our finances, time and talents.

Do you enjoy being with people, chatting, being friendly and reflecting the love of God? We have a need for additional hosts for the Sunday morning worship service at either location.

Are you a connector? Do you enjoy trying help others by understanding their needs and then helping them build a plan? It might involve helping them look for a place to stay, giving them a ride from jail to a new beginning, getting them into a Bible study group, helping them get admission into a treatment center, looking for job opportunities or meeting them for church.

New team member orientation and training will take place on Saturday, April 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch will be provided. It will include guest speakers; the chaplains from both jails and Dr. Dick Winn, Northland’s chief of staff, will present a three-hour introduction to mentoring. Each participant will receive a mentor training DVD to be viewed at home.

Please register for the orientation so we have an accurate count for materials and lunch.

To register go to the Northland website (www. northlandchurch.net), click on “Get Equipped,” click “Join a Connection Group,” scroll down to “Jail Ministry Orientation & Training,” and click “Join the Group.” You will receive an e-mail with the training details.

Distributed Journeys To get information on these trips, visit Northland’s website (www. northlandchurch.net) and select “Serve Others” from the menu. Details: Patti Harshey (patti.harshey@northlandchurch. net or 407-937-0573) Alabama 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 31-April 9 South Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 17-28 Lake Charles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 1-4 Brazil 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 6-14 Indiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 14-20 Ukraine 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 20-30 Dominican Republic 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 21-29 Egypt 1/Spain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 23-July 5 Swaziland 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 23-July 12 Swaziland 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 25-July 5 Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 25-July 6 Mississippi 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 28-July 5 Ukraine 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 1-10 Egypt 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 1-16 Swaziland 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 2-12 Sri Lanka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 10-20 Mississippi 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 11-18 Dominican Republic 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 20-27 Wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 8-16 Brazil 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 23-31 Egypt 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 18-October 4 Egypt 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 17-23

There are several opportunities available if you feel called into ministry to serve those who are incarcerated. You may choose to serve inside or outside the jail. Wherever God is calling you, there is an opportunity and a need. Below is a sample of the roles currently available to plug into after the orientation.

Worship Host Location . . . Seminole County When . . . . . . Sundays, 9 a.m. worship; Sundays, 8 to 11 a.m. once per month.

Need . . . . . . 30 people: Serve every other Sunday morning.

Advocate/Connectors Location . . . Seminole County When . . . . . . T uesdays or Thursdays, 6 to 7:30 p.m.; Sundays 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Need . . . . . . Desire to train 100 people.

Worship Host Location . . . Orange County 33rd Street Jail, women’s Christian dorm When . . . . . . Sundays, 9 a.m. worship; Sundays, 8 to 11 a.m. once per month.

Need . . . . . . 20 people (5 teams of 4 people) to serve once a week. Plus an on-call team.

Celebrate Recovery (Christian step recovery program) team member Location . . . Orange County 33rd Street Jail, women’s Christian dorm When . . . . . . Thursdays, 2 to 4 p.m. Will grow to additional days based on available volunteers.

Need . . . . . . 20 people (5 teams of 4 people) 2 hours per week.

Prayer Team Location . . . At home or anywhere When . . . . . . Weekly.

Need . . . . . . 15 people.

Pen Pal Team Location . . . At home or anywhere When . . . . . . Weekly and monthly.

Need . . . . . . Unlimited.

Administrative assistant Location . . . At home or anywhere.

When . . . . . . Weekly.

Need . . . . . . 2 people.

Details: Gretchen Kerr (gretchen.kerr@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7190)

IsleGo Missions

Jamaica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 20–27 Germany/Poland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 28–August 9 Cuba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 11–18 Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 10–17

Local Service Projects vanessa puleo Northland Local Service Projects Coordinator

2 days of serving, 2 nights of fellowship April 24-26

W

ould you be interested in experiencing a wonderful weekend of serving and spiritual retreat?

Join a Local Serve Team as team members travel less than an hour away to Southwind, A Young Life Camp, to help a great cause. Southwind needs help painting, building ramps, securing bunk beds, and doing concrete and tile work as we help the camp become handicappedaccessible.

On Friday, April 24, more than 100 people will join in this great serving weekend. Team leaders will work with the younger participants (ages 8 to 12) and do landscaping. A food team is needed to help in the kitchen areas, and others will paint the cabins and lead everyone in this project.

Friday and Saturday nights will feature dinner, fellowship and a time to grow closer to God with great speakers and programs. Supplies will be provided. All you need are your toiletries and sleeping bag. Sunday, worship in the morning, pack up and head out. This event will help the camp so much, and we are thrilled to go and be a part of serving them.

To register, visit the website and sign up for the April 24-26 Southwind Project and Retreat. (Register each member of the family separately.)

Details: Vanessa Puleo (407-949-7256 or vanessa. puleo@northlandchurch.net).

Upcoming Serving Opportunities

April 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15th Street home repairs April 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harvest Time International April 11 . . . . . . . . . . . Cook dinner and serve homeless April 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Little Hands project April 11 . The Carpenter’s House for Children, yard work April 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minister to homeless April 18 . . . . . . . . . . . Give Kids the World, serve lunch April 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15th Street home repairs April 24-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Southwind Serve Retreat April 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . Pathways to Care, serve lunch

Details: Corinne or Dusty Cooper (corinne@islego.com, dusty@islego.com or 407-687-8543)

Swaziland Meeting - All Teams If you are joining any of the Swaziland Distributed Journeys this year, please attend the planning meeting, Tuesday, March 31, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Northland at Longwood administrative wing conference room 2211.

Details: Dan Lacich (dan.lacich@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1815)

Send Missionaries Birthday Blessings April 2 April 11 Lisa Hill Andree Lottman 14726 Kristenright Lane c/o Ivan and Carole Peters Orlando, FL 32826 456 Wilmington Circle us4hills@cfl.rr.com Oviedo, FL 32765

Tim Pluto helps reconstruct a floor for a disabled woman.

To register to serve at any local service project:

1) Visit www.northlandchurch.net.

2) Select “Serve Others” on the top menu bar.

3) Select the “Be Sent to Serve Locally” icon.

4) Select the “Click Here & Sign Up” icon.

5) Then just browse the list and join a project.

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

OV = Northland at Oviedo

.......................................................................................................

LW 24/7: THE GATHERING

Sundays, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink.

“The Gathering” is an environment designed for middle and high school students to belong, believe, become and be sent. This environment will be loaded with dynamic teaching, engaging discussions and relevant application. Parents, you are welcome to attend with your students! Led by Mark Nation. Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-9497194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net)

MD CREW352 (Christians Radically Encouraging Worship)

Sundays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., room 13; Wednesdays, 7 p.m., sanctuary. For 6th– to 12th-graders. Details: Brent Williams (407-754-4428 or bwilliams@sdccfl.com)

middle school ministry

.......................................................................................................

LW LUGRox (Living Under Grace Rocks!)

Saturdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center. LUGRox is an evening full of high energy, high impact and just plain fun! This is the place where you’ll find thrilling games, solid teaching, rockin’ worship and friend-connecting small groups. Dinner (two slices of pizza, chips and lemonade) is available for $3.

Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net) ATTENTION: NEWLY ATTENDING PARENTS AND STUDENTS, CHECK IN AT THE LUGROX WELCOME DESK!

LW ABS (Area Bible Studies)

Brochures with times and locations are available at the welcome desks at all Northland sites. These small groups are for middle school students and meet in living rooms across the Central Florida area one night during the week. The time involves hanging out with other students, Bible study led by high school leaders and lifechanging accountability. Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@ northlandchurch.net)

OV AXIS: Middle School Bible Study

Sundays, 11 a.m., room 9-105. Girls and guys breakout sessions. Details: Erica Emler (407-687-8570 or erica.emler@northlandchurch.net)

college ministry

..............................................................................................................

LW College Gathering (For students age 18-25)

Sundays, 7:15 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. Come and spend time in worship, prayer and the Scriptures. All college students (age 18 to 25) are welcome.

Details: Jenny DeGeus (jenny.degeus@northlandchurch.net)

high school ministry

..............................................................................................................

LW Outreach, Worship, Teaching and Hangout Time Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink

O2 Schedule during Lenten study Wednesdays, through April 8 6:30 p.m. — 7 p.m.

— 7:50 p.m. —

Check-in and hangout (The Rink) Lenten Service (main building, sanctuary) Activities (The Rink/auditorium) Hangout (lounges) Lenten study Connection Groups (fellowship hall)

All 9th- through 12th-graders are invited to join us for an evening of fun, fellowship, awesome worship and amazing teaching from our youth pastors. Food and snacks will be offered for a few dollars. Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@ northlandchurch.net)

LW Servant Leadership Ministry

A primary goal of Northland Student Ministries is to lead students to a deeper understanding of their God-given, unique strengths and spiritual gifting so that they might use those gifts and strengths to serve others. All 9th- through 12th-graders are welcome and encouraged to participate in our Servant Leadership Ministry. For freshmen, we have LUGRox Setup Crew, and for sophomores, juniors and seniors, we have middle school Area Bible Study trainer and LUGRox captain positions. Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-949-7194 or shaylynn. stoner@northlandchurch.net)

OV AXIS: High School Ministry

Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m., NOCC. Youth group environment with interactive activities and fun.

Details: Erica Emler (407-687-8570 or erica.emler@northlandchurch.net)

7

studentministries

middle & high school students

WO = Northland at west oaks

8

My name is: __________________________________________________

A+

+

+

G rrrrrr !

G RRR R !

+

A

A

Hello, boys and girls.

Welcome to the Beehive!

I’m Buzz. Stick with me during our family worship service, and we’ll learn more about who God is and what He has done!

Today we worship God for His grace. That is God’s goodness to us, even though we don’t deserve it. When we thank God for His grace toward us—that’s worship!

= Amazing Grace

Grace is God’s goodness and kindness toward us, even though we don’t deserve it and did not earn it. It’s amazing!

Bzzz.

Bzzz.

Winnie.

Who’s there?

Today’s Buzzword is grace!

I heard it _____________ times.

I think it’s important to God because

Winn-ies Easter?

Winnie who?

It’s 3 weeks away.

Unscramble these letters to find God’s greatest gift of grace:

NIOTLASAV

_____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

__________________________________________________

.

______________________________________________

Answer: salvation

Saved By Grace Ephesians 2:8-9 The Bible says that God’s grace has saved you because of your faith in Jesus Christ. Having faith in Jesus means you believe that Jesus is the Lord.

God is the One who decided that if you have faith in Jesus, He will save you and give you life forever close with Him. God is the One who gives you the faith to believe in Jesus. God saves you simply because He loves you. He is kind and good. God doesn’t save you because of anything you’ve said or done. So, no one can brag about earning salvation. He saves you as a free gift. That’s why the Bible says that you are saved by God’s grace. It is God’s goodness toward us, even though we don’t deserve it.

Eggsactly!

Draw a picture of Jesus with you.

9

Northland’s 5-day Bible study for children, The Daily Way, is available at www.northlandchurch.net or at Children’s Church.

grace

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES NEEDS 11 VOLUNTEERS

for Saturday evenings!

This week, make a list of the people and things God has given you that help you believe in Jesus.

Thank God for each one of those gifts!

ENTER HERE

n

he week: C o u

rt Teaching at the 9 a.m. n e e t service is where you could find

ey

lu

Vo

Hey there, why did you draw that?

b er g er

Marley, one of our grade school children, shows us that on Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came to the people with a mighty wind and fire. The Holy Spirit gives us power to reach all people with the good news that Jesus is Lord.

llen

Courtney Kellenberger for the past year.

With her sweet and gentle demeanor, she teaches God’s Word to the firstgrade grape class. She’s a positive role model with an amazing heart for the Lord, as well as the children. Thank you, Courtney, for your continued faith and dedication to serving in Children’s Ministries.

Ke

Draw a line to lead the bees to the key to our salvation.

ft ro

Teachers needed on Saturday and Monday nights in Early Childhood. Please come share Jesus with us!

Search for and circle any words from Ephesians 2:8 that you find in the puzzle below: WORD BANK: YOU, ARE, SAVED, BY, GRACE, THROUGH, FAITH, IN, JESUS, CHRIST

A R E B Y T A I

K G Y O T C

T H R O U G H H F A

I

O Y C N

T H R I

N I

H J E S U S S S A V E D L T

0 or Details: Lori Gagnon (407-949-401 ) net ch. hur ndc lori.gagnon@northla

equippingnews

10

Family WorshiP: Building a Firm Foundation Together An interview with Debbie Blahnik

BY BECKY WELDON Children’s Curriculum Team

E

ach week, your family at Northland invests vast amounts of time and resources into the spiritual growth of its children. Northland intentionally works to provide Bible-centered children’s activities and events at the highest level of excellence. Why? Debbie Blahnik, director of Children’s Ministries for Northland at Longwood, recently explained.

Why does Northland focus on providing excellent ministry to children?

Debbie: We believe that children who are introduced to Jesus and given biblical training early in life have a much higher chance of forming a relationship with Him. Barna Group’s research states that almost half of Christians, 43 percent, accept Christ before they reach age 13. God even makes this clear in Proverbs 22:6: “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” For this reason, we do not want to miss the opportunity to teach them who God is and what He has done while they are young.

Since a high percentage of Christians accept Christ as children, should parents be the ones to talk with their children about forming that relationship?

Absolutely! It is very important that parents take on the role of spiritual leadership in their families. Barna research also shows that half of the children who accept Christ are led to Him by their parents. Although we strive to bring the Word of God to children in the most creative and resourceful ways, the church should not replace the parents and their role as the spiritual teachers and role models. To assist parents so they feel confident in teaching their children at home, we provide many opportunities and resources. These resources include Children’s Church, intergenerational family worship services, Young Believers classes, which require parents to attend with their children, daily family devotions, which are given to each child to encourage parental involvement and guidance, and parent training classes to assist and equip parents to teach their children.

Over the next few weeks in Children’s Church, the family worship Lenten services and the Easter service, children will be hearing the salvation message. How can parents use these opportunities to train their children?

After the service, discuss with them what they heard.

Ask them if they understood, and answer their questions.

lenten connection group lesson plan

Week 4

True contemplation is not a psychological trick but a theological grace. —Thomas Merton Lesson Objective: To challenge participants to set aside some time to study and meditate on God’s Word this week.

Bible Truths: • God speaks to us when we fill our minds with His Word.

• God renews our minds and works through our thoughts as we empty our minds of all but Him.

Optional Opener: (10 minutes) Optional icebreaker #1: What was your favorite subject in school? Did you consider yourself a good student? Why/why not?

Introduction: This week we are focusing on the spiritual disciplines of study and meditation. At first these may not seem like complementary disciplines, but they are; study is a discipline of engagement, as it requires us to actively read and focus on God’s Word in order to fill our minds with it. Meditation is a discipline of abstinence, as it requires us to cease from other activity, to empty our minds, and to wait for God’s voice or God’s thoughts.

Another way to see it is this: When studying, we are asking what a passage says and what it means.

When meditating, we are asking what a passage means for us personally.

Transition: (2 minutes) Ask a group member to read the following: “What happens in meditation is that we create the emotional and spiritual space which allows Christ to construct an inner sanctuary in the heart. The wonderful verse ‘I stand at the door and knock…’ was originally penned for believers, not unbelievers (Revelation 3:20). We who have turned our lives over to Christ need to know how very much he longs to eat with us, to commune with us. He desires a perpetual Eucharistic feast in the inner sanctuary of the heart. Meditation opens the door and, although we are engaging in specific meditation exercises at specific times, the aim is to bring this living reality

into all of life. It is a portable sanctuary that is brought into all we are and do.” (Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline)

Interactive Learning: (15 minutes) Read the following passages together, or divide your group into pairs and assign one passage per couple.

Deuteronomy 6:1-12 Psalm 119:97-102 Matthew 22:37 Romans 12:1-2 Philippians 4:8 Ask your group members: • What scriptural mandate have you found in these verses for both study and meditation?

• What do these passages teach you about study and/or meditation?

• How do study and meditation feed one another?

Bible Application: In The Spirit of the Disciplines, Dallas Willard suggests that the discipline of silence takes the discipline of solitude one step further. If that is so, then perhaps the discipline of meditation takes both of them further still. Meditation requires one to be alone, to be silent and to intentionally focus on a God, or on a passage of Scripture or a theme from Scripture.

• How has the Lenten reader, “In Me. In You.,” provided opportunities for each of these disciplines for you?

Wrap-up: Give group members an opportunity to share their experiences with prayer and listening from last week. Be prepared to share your own thoughts, in case others are hesitant.

Challenge: (3 minutes) Challenge your group members to set aside some time this week to study. Then set aside some time to slow down, detach from all the noise and hurry, and meditate on what you have studied.

Closing: (2 minutes) As you close in prayer, ask God to help your group members fully engage their minds in order to better love and serve Him this week.

Explain why you asked Jesus into your heart. If they understand and are ready to accept Jesus, pray with them. Then present them with a personalized Bible or journal as a memento of the occasion.

Parents can sometimes feel overwhelmed or not equipped to talk with their children about accepting Christ and providing their spiritual training. What resources do you recommend?

We would love to assist them and answer their questions!

Our Children’s Ministries team is always here for them. We also provide an excellent, very simple guide they can use to lead their children through the salvation process. They can access the New Believer’s Guide on our Children’s Ministries website (http://blogs.northlandchurch.net/ blog/childrens_ministries/) or request a copy from a Children’s Ministries leader or volunteer. I also recommend these helpful parent training resources: • Guide to Effectively Training Children, by David Welday, available at www.nextgeninstitute.com.

• Parenting classes: Watch for these at Northland this summer.

• National Center for Biblical Parenting (www.biblicalparenting.org) • Home Word (www.Homeword.com) • Focus on the Family (www.focusonthefamily.com)

Connection Center

By now, most of you probably have seen the Connection Center in the lobby — the row of tables in front of the huge orange BELONG logo banner! The Connection Center is a place to get information. Volunteers are available to handle questions about classes, small groups, volunteer opportunities and many other issues. This is just one step we are taking as the Equipping team to better serve our congregation. Please take time to stop by if there is any way we can help you.

Get Connected Join a Connection Group!

Connection Groups meet on an ongoing basis for the purposes of encouragement, fellowship and service. The studies and activities will change, but the facilitators and members remain the same. These groups meet at various locations, at various times, and discuss various topics.

From the “Get Equipped” page on Northland’s website, click on “join a Connection Group.” Then choose the options you are looking for and search.

Have I missed my chance to become a member of Northland?

No. The membership process is always available. Here’s what you need to do: 1) Receive God’s gift of salvation, made possible through Jesus Christ.

2) Complete the Belong study in one of the following ways: • Take the online study at www.northlandchurch.net.

• Purchase the Belong DVD and study booklets in the Northland Bookstore.

• From the Northland website, download the PDF of the study and print a copy.

3) At the end of the study, click on “Sign the membership covenant” link in the resources section of week 4. A membership coach will contact you to hear the story of how you came to Christ. This process does require current personal contact information.

If you have questions, contact Ruth Sapp (407-949-4039 or ruth.sapp@northlandchurch.net), Barbara Olsen (407949-7183 or barbara.olsen@northlandchurch.net) or Jennifer Raymond (407-937-1832 or jennifer.raymond@ northlandchurch.net).

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

OV = Northland at Oviedo

11

WO = Northland at west oaks

Join others for ongoing encouragement and connection.

CONNECTION GROUPS Join a study Connection Group, online at www.northlandchurch. net, or contact Jennifer Raymond (jennifer.raymond@northlandchurch. net or 407-937-1832).

ADULTS ...............................

Lw Art Group, Divine Reflection

Third Thursday of each month, 7 p.m., room 4208. Produce artwork based on a subject of focus from God’s Word. This includes all the visual arts medias. Details: Laura Bates (carpearte@aol.com or 407-622-6873)

Lw Buddy Break

Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. Northland partners with Nathaniel’s Hope to provide three hours of free respite for parents and caregivers of special needs children. Drop off your child with our trained volunteers and go and do something for yourself. Details and registration: Laura Lee Wright (407-937-0549 or buddybreak@ northlandchurch.net)

LW

Coping with Addictions AND Codependency Thursdays, 7 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. A Christcentered, 12-step program that deals with issues such as alcohol, drugs, relationships, food, sexual addictions, codependency, and issues affecting adult children of addiction.

Child care is available. Details: His Way (407599-9770)

LW DIVORCECARE

Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., room 4209-10. A 13week session in which individuals who are divorced will gain spiritual growth and personal healing. Pre-registration is required; child care is available. Details and registration: Donna Delzingaro (407-937-1749) • DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K) Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m. This group is for children whose parent is attending DivorceCare.

Preregistration and application are required.

Books cost $15. Details and registration: Elaine Harland (407-949-4002 or elaine.harland@ northlandchurch.net)

LW Employment Network

Fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m., rooms 5106-7. You may also visit the Christian HELP ministry at 450 Seminola Blvd., Casselberry, Tuesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Details: Christian HELP (407-834-4022)

LW Faith and Science Group

Last Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing, room 5106-7. Meet to discuss modern science in light of God’s Word. Study: Why the Universe Is the Way That It Is, by Hugh Ross. Details: Kent Cofoid (kent. cofoid@gmail.com)

LW FLAG FOOTBALL

Saturdays, 10 a.m., Lyman High School practice fields. Coed. Details: Nathan Naversen (407-701-7577 or nate@magicwebhosting.com)

LW GriefShare

Tuesdays, beginning January 20, 7 to 9 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1118. If you are experiencing grief due to the death of a loved one, this healing ministry

walks you through the steps of grief during this 13-week session. Details and registration: Dorie Anderson (407-949-7152)

LW TENNIS

LW Grief Support Group

LW Word Weavers

Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1112.

Support for people grieving the death of a loved one. Limited to 10 people. Details and registration: Bob Kemp (321-205-6482)

LW Golf Ministry

Friday, April 10, 11 a.m., Rock Springs Ridge Golf Club. Links Fellowship connects golfers throughout the world in Christ. It meets the second Friday of each month. Guest speaker is Jay Davis, the Head Golf Professional at the Country Club of Orlando. The cost is $35 per person; food costs extra. RSVP by Tuesday, April 7. Details and reservations: Parks Reinhardt (407-880-9932 or linksfellowship@cfl.rr.com)

LW LOVING JUSTICE

Thursdays, 7 p.m., 914 Canton St., Orlando.

A study on Bob and Carol Hunter’s book, Loving Justice. Details: Arun Sarvotham (407-719-7865 or aroonisbc@gmail.com)

LW MOTORCYCLE MINISTRY

All styles are welcome. Must own a motorcycle and have a valid motorcycle license to participate. Details: Lori Cooper-Keith (407381-2051) Motorcycle Ministry 7 year Anniversary Ride Saturday, March 21, 9:30 a.m., departure 10 a.m. We are celebrating 7 years as a ministry and group. Bring money for lunch stop.

Destination is Cocoa Beach. Experienced riders only, will reach highway speeds. Call a week early to confirm. Details: Lori Cooper-Keith (407-381-2051)

LW Orphan Care Group

First and third Thursdays each month, 7 p.m., room 4205. CGC Ministries (Connecting God’s Children Ministries) is designed to connect the needs of God’s foster and orphaned children with the people who want to help them.

Details: Greg and Sheri Bell (407-617-1911 or bellfamily@cfl.rr.com)

LW Page Turners

Third Tuesday of each month, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Special Needs/Cry room. For the list of books currently on the calendar, and for other details, contact Sue Newman (407-830-5776).

LW Seniors Group (ages 55 and up)

Third Wednesday of each month, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. Bring nonperishable food items for the Pastoral Care pantry. Details and RSVP: Marilyn Casey (407-273-2857)

LW SOCCER

Fridays, 8:15 p.m., Red Bug Lake Park.

There are no teams, no positions and no practices, just fun for ages 18 and up. A $2 donation is requested. Details: Mike Cannavo (407-359-0191)

LW SUPPORT FOR THE SEPARATED

Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m. Learn practical steps for healing, hope and reconciliation in the Lord through the painful journey of the divorce process. Details on qualification and assessment: Donna Delzingaro (407-937-1749)

Saturdays, 8 a.m., Red Bug Lake Park. Details: Jeff Rossmeissl (407-489-6096)

Second Saturday of each month, 9:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. Details: www.wordweaversonline.com

MD CELEBRATE RECOVERY LOCAL CHAPTER Tuesdays, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Calvary Chapel of the Lakes, 351 Plaza Drive, Tavares. For those dealing with unhealthy habits in the present or painful experiences from the past. Child care is available. Details: Marilyn Faber (352-357-0983 or marilynfaber@comcast.net) MD Bowling league

Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m., Triangle Lanes, Mount Dora. Join them for “Moonlight Bowling.” All ages are welcome. Details: Jeff Young (205332-9931 or sbiltd@yahoo.com)

MD Gathering 2:42

Third Wednesday of each month 6 to 8:30 p.m., fellowship hall and sanctuary. An evening of food, fellowship, worship and prayer. Potluck dinner: 6 to 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Worship and prayer: 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the sanctuary. Details: Bill Chapman (bill.chapman@northlandchurch.net or 352434-4116)

MD Mount Dora Home Group

First and third Friday each month, 7 to 9 p.m., call for location. Study: True Spirituality,

by Francis Schaeffer. Children are welcome.

Details: Brent and Melanie (352-383-6415 or melanie@sdccfl.com)

MD

Small Children/Homeschool Play Group Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to noon, location alternates; call for details. Details: Michele Pruitt (352-408-3909)

MD Umatilla/Tavares fellowship First and third Sunday each month, 6 to 8 p.m., call for location. Study: select sermons

by Pastor Joel C. Hunter. Child care is not available. Details: Hugh and Carole (352-4836561 or hughandcarole@embarqmail.com) wo west oaks Play Group Join West Oaks parents and their children for some fellowship and fun. Details: Sara Sundermeyer (407-575-6178 or scostantini@ hotmail.com) or Kimberly Fulmer (407-6563008 or kfulmer@earthlink.net)

MARRIED COUPLES ...............................

LW Couples Café

Third Saturday of each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m, Nature’s Table Café. Speakers address a variety of topics designed to encourage married couples. Child care by reservation: Diane Jones (407-949-7188 or diane.jones@ northlandchurch.net); Details: James Price (james.price@northlandchurch.net)

MEN ...............................

LW AMEN (A Meeting of Men)

Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., room 4206. Look at real-life issues, through God’s Word and apply lessons to real life. Details: Dan Bogdan (407702-5358 or danbogdan@landscapeorlando.

com) or Buzz Vincent (407-463-9398 or blv292@ cfl.rr.com)

LW BUSINESSMEN’S FRIDAY LUNCH

Fridays, noon to 1 p.m., email for location.

Learn how to apply scriptural principles to business and personal discipleship. Details: James Price (james.price@northlandchurch.net)

LW Men’s Praise and Prayer

Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1104. Details: Dave McGregor (407-774-2952 or mcgregor449@ hotmail.com)

LW Struggling With Homosexuality?

Wednesdays, 7:15 to 9:15 p.m., call for confidential location. Among Friends is a weekly support group for men who struggle with same sex attraction and/or same sex attraction feelings that want to live a life pleasing to God. Details: Jay or Joe (407-949-7193, ext. 1788)

PARENTS ...............................

LW Mom’s Morning Out

Pick one day a week, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Northland Early Learning Center. Drop off your child for Mom’s Morning Out for moms of 18- to 24-month-olds. The fee: $50 a month with registration and supply fees. Details and registration: Pam Anderson (407-949-7179 or pam.anderson@northlandchurch.net)

SINGLES ...............................

LW Single Adult Ministries (20s and up) Fourth Sunday of each month, 4 to 6 p.m., room 4206. Join for live worship music and praise, prayer time, classes and fellowship.

Sundays, gather at Nature’s Table Café before the 6 p.m. worship service. Singles meet weekly in small groups throughout Central Florida.

Details: Yvonne Lutz (lyvonne316@yahoo. com), Liza Johnson (lizajohnson@landam. com), Dave Mullen (dmull77@yahoo.com) or general information (NorthlandSAM@yahoo. com). Leave questions on the singles info line (407-949-7172). Learn more: christiansocial. meetup.com/189/ LW SINGLES SUNDAY MORNING CLASS

Sundays, 10:45 a.m., room 4210. They will be studying the holiness of God. Details: Lisa (GodsGirl0202@yahoo.com)

WOMEN ...............................

LW BCAUSE—BREAST CANCER SURVIVAL Anyone touched by breast cancer who desires prayer, fellowship, information and/or encouragement, contact Susan Diener-Blando (321-972-4541 or susandb@yahoo.com).

LW DIVORCED AND WIDOWED FELLOWSHIP

Second and fourth Sundays of each month, 3 p.m., Nancy Petitto’s home, Casselberry. Join other women for prayer and discussion at this potluck fellowship. Children are welcome. Details and directions: Nancy Petitto (407-699-9181) HEALING GRACE Thursdays, 6:30 to 8 p.m., TLC Women’s Center, 4804 Edgewater Drive, Orlando. This post-abortion ministry, shares the healing grace of Jesus without judgment. Details: Coorie Moore (407-292-7628)

12

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

LUNCH AND PRAY Last Wednesday of each month, 11:30 a.m., Denny’s, State Road 436 and Cranes Roost Boulevard, Altamonte Springs. Join for fellowship, friendship and prayer in small groups. Details: Irene Williamson (407-7569060 or frankirenewill@embarqmail.com)

LW MOMS4MOMS Ministry

Third Monday of each month, 9 to 11:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. Get connected with other moms for friendship and encouragement through

MD = Northland at Mount dora

meetings and separate playgroup activities.

Registration is required. Child care is provided during monthly meetings for infants to 5 year olds. Details: www.northlandmoms4moms.com

LW LUNCHTIME STUDY GROUP

Thursdays, noon to 1 p.m., First Watch restaurant on State Road 434, Longwood.

Cindy Price leads this study of Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna, Weaver.

Details: Cindy Price (407-221-3981 or cindy@ cindyprice.com)

OV = Northland at Oviedo

WO = Northland at west oaks

LW SMALL GROUP FOR DIVORCED WOMEN

MD Ladies Night Out Fourth Thursday of every month, 7 to 9 p.m., Chili’s, Mount Dora. Bring a friend. Details: Deborah Balic (407-832-9171) or Frances Merritt (407-554-0076)

LW THIRD VERSE (AGE 60 AND UP)

WO Ladies Night Out Connect with West Oaks women each month.

Activities and locations vary. Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika.hacker@ northlandchurch.net)

Sundays, 3:30 p.m., Winter Springs. Study The Power of a Woman’s Word, by Sharon Jaynes. Details: Lisa Edwards (407-222-9639 or godsgirl0202@yahoo.com)

Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 1:30 to 3 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1116. Meet for Bible study, prayer and fellowship. Details: Jean Sherwood (407-323-7869)

Bible studies to help you explore your faith and know God.

BAPTISM

An outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace...

ADULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

LW ADULT BAPTISMS

Sunday, April 19, 2 p.m., Ken and Diane Watkins’ home. Adults and teens may be baptized by immersion or sprinkling as a public profession of personal faith if the individual trusts in Jesus Christ as Lord of his or her life (Matthew 28:19). Maps are available at the information desk in the church foyer. Call to sign up. Details: Sharon Ferreira (407-949-7189 or sharon. ferreira@northlandchurch.net)

PARENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

LW CHILD BAPTISMS

Although Northland recommends the Steps for Young Believers course before baptism, it is not mandatory. For information about grade school students’ baptisms, contact Diane Jones (diane.jones@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7188)

LW INFANT BAPTISM/DEDICATION CLASS

Saturday, May 16, 7 p.m., rooms 4206-7.

Child care is available upon request.

Details: Diane Jones (407-949-7188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net)

ADULTS ...............................

LW THE BIBLE RELEVANT NOW!

Sundays, 10:45 a.m., room 4209. Study the book of James and learn to be patient, to make peace instead of trouble, and practice what the Bible teaches. Details: Sharon Ferreira (sharon. ferreira@northlandchurch.net)

LW THE GOSPEL OF JOHN, PART 2

Thursdays, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 4212-14.

This (14-week) Precept study uses workbook

and requires five hours of homework a week.

Details or to order a workbook: Geri Anderson (407-331-6760 or geri.anderson@att.net)

LW LIFE AND TEACHINGS OF JESUS

Wednesdays, 7 p.m., rooms 4206-07. In this study of the Gospels, learn who God is and what He has done by looking at what Jesus said and did. Details: Sharon Ferreira (407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@northlandchurch.net)

LW ROMANS, BIBLE STUDY

Sundays, 9 a.m., rooms 4213. Doug Moorhead leads this study of faith, grace, justification, sanctification, redemption, atonement and salvation. Details: Sharon Ferreira (sharon. ferreira@northlandchurch.net)

OV Bible Study – 1 Corinthians

Mondays, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Welday home, Oviedo. This short, New Testament book is filled with wisdom and insight on living relevant, Spirit-empowered Christian lives amidst a secular culture. Details: Dave Welday (407-366-1886 or dwelday@nextgeninstitute. com)

WO John: Theology in the Real World

Sundays, 10:30 a.m., Northland at West Oaks sanctuary. Join others in studying this intensely personal and practical book of the Gospels. Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika.hacker@northlandchurch.net)

CHILDREN ...............................

LW STEPS FOR YOUNG BELIEVERS (GRADES 2 –

5) AND THEIR PARENTS The “steps” in basic Christian discipleship include classroom sessions and daily at-home devotionals. Materials cost for each class: $5. Registration is required. Details and registration: Teri Grayson (407-949-7148 or teri.grayson@northlandchurch.net). Step 1: Becoming a Part of God’s Family; Sundays, April 19 to May 10, 4 to 5:45 p.m. Focus: Salvation and assurance. Includes Communion

instruction. Step 2: The Most Important Thing; Sundays, April 26 to May 24, 4 to 5:45 p.m. Focus: Jesus’ Life A-Z, a basic discipleship theme and learning about the life of Christ.

(Students must be present at least four weeks and make up any missed weeks.) Baptism offered on May 31 at 2 p.m. Step 3: LIVING BY THE BOOK: “C-ING” My Way through the Bible; Sundays, April 26 to May 31, 4 to 5:45 p.m. Focus: To develop skills in exploring the Bible. (Students must be present at least four weeks and make up any missed weeks.)

MEN ...............................

LW MORNING BIBLE STUDY

Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1118. Join this open-forum discussion on the book of Isaiah: 45-minute time of study and 15-minute prayer time.

Details: Ron Morris (ron@creativele.com)

MD Men’s Bible Fellowship Tuesdays, 6:30 to 7:45 a.m., rooms 2, 3.

Motto: Men with a Mission. Details: Richie Kluesener (407-221-4517 or rk@goldinart. com) or Bill Chapman (352-434-4116 or bill. chapman@northlandchurch.net)

WOMEN ...............................

322-6850). Study: Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed, by Beth Moore, Kay Arthur and Priscilla Shirer. Workbook available in the Northland bookstore for $14.95.

LW BETH MOORE STUDY — ESTHER

Thursdays, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., rooms 4206-7 (bring your dinner). Study: Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman, by Beth Moore. Details: Robin Kendall (321-662-5039 or northland.ladies.bible. studies@gmail.com)

LW BETH MOORE STUDY — ESTHER

Thursdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., 617 Woodridge Rd., Fern Park. Study: Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman, by Beth Moore. Details and reservations: Dorie Anderson (407 949 7152)

LW BOOK OF DANIEL

Thursdays, 10 a.m., in Casselberry. Details: Millie Barnes (407-388- 1429 or milliebarnes@ hotmail.com)

LW PRECEPT UPON PRECEPT BIBLE STUDY

Mondays, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., room 4213-15. Study: Revelation, Part 1. Child care is available upon request. Workbook cost is $23.50. Details and registration: Melody Ringenberg (rringenberg@cfl.rr.com or 407884-9794)

LW STUDY OF PHILIPPIANS

LW BETH MOORE STUDY — DANIEL

Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m., Longwood. Details: Sharon Fussell (407-830-7740)

LW Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed

MD BETH MOORE STUDY — a heart like his Wednesdays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., rooms 2, 3.

Study: A Heart Like His, by Beth Moore. Child care is available. Details: Deborah Balic (407832-9171) or Frances Merritt (407-554-0076)

Every other Saturday, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., room 4212-14. Study: Daniel, by Beth Moore (available at Northland’s Bookstore). Details: Michele Wiseman (407-619-7336)

• Mondays, beginning March 30, 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., room 4206-07 (child care available). Details and registration for child care: Renee Shoemaker (reneeshoemaker@ mindspring.com or 407-628-7068).

• Wednesdays, beginning March 25, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., room 4206-07 (no child care).

Details: Cherrie cherbear100@aol.com or 407-

OV BETH MOORE STUDY — Living beyond yourself Wednesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., Southeast Orlando.

Study: Living Beyond Yourself: Exploring the Fruit Of The Spirit, by Beth Moore. Details: Karin Dewey (407-243-9482 or dewey@jkdewey.com)

Classes to help you mature in your faith and equip you to serve.

ADULTS ...............................

LW Conquering Fear, Anger & Anxiety

Tuesdays, 7:15 p.m., room 4204. Conquer fear, anger and anxiety through biblical principles. Child care is available. Details: Skye Engel (407-834-3158)

LW Learn to speak Chinese

Sundays, 1:30 to 3:15 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing, rooms 5202-5209. Beginner and mid-level classes available. Cost: $100 for textbooks and activity fees for one semester.

Details: Jin Guiying (gui_jin66@yahoo.com) or Linan An (lan@mail.ucf.edu)

LW FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY

Sundays, 10:45 a.m., rooms 4206-07. Class is full. Contact the Haussmann’s for details on the next new class. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University is a 13-week, life-changing, biblically based program that teaches you to manage God’s money and resources in a godly way. Cost for class materials: $99. Registration required. Course details and registration:

Rich or Jana Haussmann (407-333-0960 or rhaussmann@cfl.rr.com) Child care is available.

Child care registration: Morgan Perun (407-9371757 or morgan.perun@northlandchurch.net)

LW Marriage 911 for Troubled Marriages

Mondays, beginning April 6, 7 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall.

Marv and Linda Rooks lead this 12-week course.

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

You may attend with or without your spouse, as men and women participate separately.

Attend if your marriage is in crisis or if you are separated. Linda is the author of Broken Heart on Hold, Surviving Separation (Cook, 2006), available at the Northland Bookstore to help you prepare your heart. Details and registration: Linda Rooks (407-644-8619).

Child care is available. Child care registration: Morgan Perun (407-937-1757 or morgan.perun@ northlandchurch.net)

LW Marriage ENRICHMENT

Tuesdays, beginning May 5, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. A 14-week Biblebased study that will help strengthen or repair your marriage. Registration deadline is April 29. Handbook cost: $15 per couple. Child care is available. Register: 407-949-4000 ext. 1761 or northlandmarriageministry@hotmail.com.

WO Parenting Study

Sundays, 10:30 a.m., Northland at West Oaks

OV = Northland at Oviedo

fellowship hall. Looking to corroborate with other parents? Join others from West Oaks as we discuss parenting God’s Way. Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika.hacker@ northlandchurch.net)

MEN ...............................

LW FAITHFUL AND TRUE

Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1118. Join a fellowship of men seeking sexual integrity. Workbooks are available at Northland’s bookstore for $17.

Details and registration: Bryce Hagedorn (407227-3072 or brycehagedorn@yahoo.com) or Kevin Urichko (407-949-7166 or kevin.urichko@ northlandchurch.net)

LW Men’s study

Thursdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 4128. Study: Men’s Fraternity: The Quest for Authentic Manhood, developed by Dr. Robert Lewis.

13

WO = Northland at west oaks

Details: Tom Horvath (tom@tomhorvath.com) or Gerald Jones (Gwjones01@aol.com)

embarqmail.com) or Rudy Tamez (407-949-7203 or rudy.tamez@northlandchurch.net)

LW Mentoring Workshop

WO MEN IN THE WORD Saturdays, 7 to 8:30 a.m. Location alternates; call for details. Study: The Truth Project, a DVD based curriculum taught by Dr. Del Tackett, president of the Focus on the Family Institute.

Details: Jerry Murphy (407- 522-1672 or jerry. murphy@ieee.org)

Join us in establishing a mentoring ministry this year. America is reaching a crisis regarding teenage crime, suicide, drug and alcohol use, prison population and sexual abuse as result of fatherlessness. The church needs to be the leader in this social crisis, or we face losing a generation of boys.

• Information sessions: Friday, March 27, 7 to 8 p.m. or Saturday, March 28, 8 to 9 a.m., Northland at Longwood, Children’s Worship Wing, rooms 5106-7.

• Training class: Saturday, March 28, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Northland at Longwood, Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. Led

by Wade Trimmer of The Mentoring Project.

Cost: $25 (early registration, which includes training manual, lunch and refreshments).

Details: Dave Keys (407-256-5576 or pilotdak1@

WOMEN ...............................

STUDY GROUP Every other Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., Riverbend Boulevard area, Longwood. Study: Conversation Peace: The Power of Transformed Speech, by Mary Kassian. Details: Dana Bates (407-574-6386) and Stephanie Wattles (407880-8446)

Serve others both locally and globally.

ADULTS ...............................

LW easter services volunteers

Sundays, during the 11 a.m. worship service.

Details: Laura Lee Wright (407-937-0549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net)

Volunteers are needed during Easter services to greet congregants or hand out newspapers. No experience necessary. Easter services are April 11 to 13. Details: Susan Cholewa (407-937-0544 or susan.cholewa@northlandchurch.net)

LW

LW Jail Ministry

LW ASSIST SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN & TEENS

Assist with Northland’s Million Distributed Sites Initiative Volunteers needed with strong Excel skills to pull data and collate. Details: Calvie Hughson (407-937-1831 or calvie.hughson@ northlandchurch.net)

LW BLOOD DRIVE

Saturday, April 4, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, April 5, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Monday, April 6, 6:15 to 9:15 p.m. During the March drive, there were 102 donors, and 97 units were collected. As a result, 279 lives were saved!

LW CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES PRAYER TEAM

Pray weekly, from your own home, for needs in Children’s Ministries. Details: Carol Moss (carol. moss@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7180)

LW COVERING CARE BLANKET MINISTRY

First Saturday of each month, 3 to 4:30 p.m. or the third Thursday of each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 4212. Work on baby caps and blankets for distribution in local communities.

Details: Nicole Roberts (407-699-8575)

LW DivorceCare Facilitators

Minister to inmates either in Seminole County or Orange County jails during Sunday morning 9 a.m. worship, Celebrate Recovery for women on Thursday afternoons or assisting them with longer-term planning (several dates). Training provided. Prayer team members needed as well as pen pals. Details: Jail Ministry voice mail (407-949-4007)

LW Jail Ministry orientation/Training Saturday April 25, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Northland at Longwood Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. Receive part 1 of the advocate training and a DVD for continued training on your own. Register at www.northlandchurch. net. Select “Get Equipped,” then “Join a Belong Connection Group.” Scroll down to “Jail Ministry Training” and click “Join the group.” Details: Jail Ministry voice mail (407-949-4007) LW Local Service Projects Serve the community locally. To view project list and to register, visit www.northlandchurch. net. More info on page 6. Details: Vanessa Puleo (vanessa.puleo@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7156)

Facilitators are needed to work alongside the DivorceCare ministry. Training is included.

Help those who are currently experiencing the pain of divorce and help them through the healing process. They meet Tuesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Details: Elaine Harland (407-949-4002 or elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net)

LW MEDICAL FIRST RESPONDERS

LW DivorceCare for kids Facilitators

OF LONGWOOD HEALTH CARE Sundays, 9 a.m., Sanctuary. Give hugs and show love to the residents of the facility behind Northland on Grant Street. Details: Patsy Grannan (407-538-5209 or Pjg327@ embarqmail.com)

Work with children who are struggling with the pain of divorce. Commitment of 13 weeks and background check are essential. Training is included. They meet Tuesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Details: Elaine Harland (407-949-4002 or elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net)

During worships services and special events.

BLS trained or medical professionals, especially EMTs are needed. Details: Susan Cholewa (407-937-0544 or susan.cholewa@ northlandchurch.net)

LW MINISTER TO OUR NEIGHBORS: RESIDENTS

LW MINISTER TO SINGLE MOTHERS

Help create a single mothers’ group: lead or be part of a core team. Call for a ministry application and interview. Details: Elaine Harland (407-949-4002 or elaine.harland@ northlandchurch.net)

LW PetPals Ministry

Saturdays, except the fifth Saturday of the month. Share your pets with people in nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, etc. Details: Becky Yeager (leahyeager@aol.com or 407-699-4903)

LW phone VolunteerS

Weekday volunteers are needed at Northland at Longwood to answer phones and greet visitors.

Flexible hours. Details: Kevin Donaghy (407-9371831 or kevin.donaghy@northlandchurch.net)

LW Prayer Group

Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1116. Details: Jean Sherwood (407-323-7869)

Lw Pre-worship Prayer Meetings

Saturdays, 4 to 4:45 p.m. and Sundays, 8 to 8:45 a.m., prayer room. Meet to pray for our worship services and the needs of those in our church family and the community. Details: Saturday, Jean Sherwood (407-323-7869), or Sunday, Jean Sherwood or Amy Dunn (407-463-6161)

LW Project Homeless Connect Friday, March 20, all day event, Northland at Longwood. Attend one of two training sessions: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 7 to 9 p.m. in The Rink at Northland’s Student Ministries and Care Center. To register to serve, visit www.northlandchurch.net; select “Serve Others” on the top menu bar; select the “Be Sent to Serve Locally” icon; select the “Click Here & Sign Up” icon; then browse the list for the Project Homeless Connect teams and join the one that interests you. Details: Vanessa Puleo (vanessa.puleo@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7156) LW Volunteer at Northland — longwood Get connected to serve through Northland’s Volunteer Central. Needed: master chef,

cheerleading teacher, helpers for the 33rd Street Jail Ministry, literacy volunteers and much more. Details: Calvie Hughson (407-9371831 or calvie.hughson@northlandchurch.net)

MD Volunteer at Northland — Mt. Dora Ushers, greeters, child care workers and more are needed. Details: Bill Chapman (bill.chapman@ northlandchurch.net or 352-434-4116) MD Volunteer at The Carpenters House

for Children This home in Lake County for 16 abandoned, displaced and medically needy children, ranging in age from 2 to 19 years, has many volunteer opportunities. More info available at www.thecarpentershouseoflakecounty. com. Details: Ann South (south4@comcast. net or 352-267-3388)

OV Good Samaritan Ministry Serve someone in need in your community through meal deliveries for new parents, hospital recovery, illness, etc. Details: Maggie Jobson (mjobson@cfl.rr.com) OV Local Service Projects — oviedo Help meet real needs in our community through local service projects. Details: Jeremy Jobson (jeremy.jobson@northlandchurch.net or 407929-3053) OV Volunteer at Northland — oviedo Ushers, greeters, child care workers and more are needed. Details: Amanda Hartley (amanda. hartley@northlandchurch.net or 407-222-7374) WO TOOLS AT YOUR SERVICE Know someone (even if it’s you) who could use a hand with something? No job is too big or too small. This team of volunteers will fix, repair, paint, move furniture or do other tasks.

To make a request or join the team, call Kip Conway (407-595-0008 or 321-460-2546).

WO Volunteer at Northland — West Oaks Ushers, greeters, child care workers and more are needed. Details: Derika Hacker (derika. hacker@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7191)

Find other ways to serve in your community at servebeyond.northlandchurch.net

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Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

OV = Northland at Oviedo

WO = Northland at west oaks

Opportunities and classes in the greater Orlando community.

ADULTS ...............................

ABORTION RECOVERY Bible study for post-abortive men or women that meets in a confidential, supportive setting.

Details: Reveille Ministries (407-333-0404) Adoption Information Meeting Tuesday, April 21, 7 to 9 p.m., Adoption by Shepherd Care, 2911 Lakeview Drive, Fern Park. Details and registration: Dee Robertson (407-265-9599) ALPHA COURSE Tuesdays, through April 7, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Markham Woods Presbyterian Church, Lake Mary. Explore spirituality and the Christian faith’s perspective of the meaning of life. The course is free. Child care available. Details and registration: Chris Leinenkugel (407-333-2030) BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP INTERNATIONAL (BSF) September 8, 2008 to mid-May, 2009. Attend introduction class the first week of any month. Day women’s classes meet at First Baptist Sweetwater in Longwood (407-8333886), First Baptist Oviedo (407-628-1787) and St. Luke’s Methodist in Windermere (407-8943914). Evening women’s class meets at Delaney Street Baptist Church (321-299-5036). Evening men’s class meets at First Baptist Church Winter Park (407-644-3061). Details: (877-2733228 or www.bsfinternational.org) central florida’s Job Fair (CFEC.org) Wednesday, March 25, noon to 4 p.m. at the Central Florida Fairgrounds & Exposition Park, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Admission

and parking are free. Dress professionally and bring plenty of resume copies. No children. Visit www.CFEC.org to pre-register, get job fair tips, research the companies listed, get directions or search Central Florida’s Online Job Board.

Details: Christian HELP (407-834-4022) EXCHANGE MINISTRIES Mondays, 7:15 to 9:15 p.m., First Baptist Orlando, E-2 building, third floor, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando. A Christ-centered ministry for men and women struggling with homosexuality. Details: John Westcott (407514-4356 or www.exchangeministries.org). A support group takes place the first Monday of each month at 7:15 p.m to encourage parents, friends and family who have loved ones struggling with their sexual identity. Details: Cherrie Rowe (407-322-6850 or cherbear100@ aol.com); inquiries are confidential.

HOMELESS MINISTRY To assist the homeless or if you are in need of assistance due to being homeless, connect with Homeless Services Network of Central for the most current info on resources. Details: HSN Receptionist (407-893-0133 or www.hsncfl.org).

Role of Women in Different Faith Traditions Tuesday, March 31, 7 p.m., Winter Park Public Library, Community Room. Panel discussion sponsored by Interfaith Community of Central Florida. Women from the Sikh, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, Buddhist and Spiritualist traditions will sit on the panel, sharing their experience, insight, stories and perspective on the role of women within their particular social, family and religious structures. Details and registration: Linda Hayes Gallegos (407-623-3314)

Stewardship

Ways for you to give of your treasure (Matthew 6:19-21).

donations ...............................

Non-perishable food items can be brought to Northland. Please take clean, usable clothing, toys and supplies to The Christian Sharing Center, Fairmont Plaza, 600 N. Highway 17-92, Longwood (407-260-9155).

MD LOVE COLLECTION New collection each month for The Carpenter’s House for Children and for Loaves and Fishes of Apopka. Visit the information table for list. Details: Ann South (south4@comcast.net or 352-267-3388) or Sharlee Hollingsworth (shollingsworth2@cfl.rr.com)

LW Christian and classic children’s books

WO

LW

Backpacks, blankets, tennis shoes, hygienic supplies, and men’s and women’s casual clothes are needed by Distributed Ministry at History Park Center, a ministry to the homeless in Orlando. Details Dave Mullen (dmull77@yahoo.com) or Mary Lo Pall (mpall@ universalengineering.com)

as well as parenting and marriage books are needed for Northland’s library. Details: Bethany Durys (Bethany.Durys@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0541)

Non-perishable food items can be placed into the designated wooden boxes in the lobby and in the Student Ministries and Care Center. Details: Gretchen Kerr (407-9497190 or gretchen.kerr@northlandchurch.net)

OV BOYS TOWN has donation buckets available

in the foyer as well as current needs lists and service opportunities. Details: Kathy Franz (klfranz@aol.com or 407-951-5691)

OV Hope Foundation & Sonshine Thrift has donation buckets available in the foyer as well as current needs lists and service opportunities.

Details: Amanda Hartley (amanda.hartley@ northlandchurch.net or 407-222-7374)

Work with Faith Neighborhood Center of Clermont in the coming year.

If your small group, ministry, or Bible study would like to do so, contact Patti Novak (NOVAKgirls4@aol.com).

bed sheets and pillow cases are needed by The Seminole Safehouse for battered women and their children. Details: Steve Celentano (407-399-8173) vehicles are needed at Recovery House of Central Florida (www.recoveryhouseinc.org).

They also need pressure washing equipment, power tool, and hand tools. Details: Erik Robinson (407-323-5857 or erikrhcf@yahoo. com)

men ...............................

CHRISTIAN BUSINESSMEN’S CONNECTION (CBMC) Tuesdays, 7 to 8 a.m., Denny’s, Lee Road exit off Interstate 4 or Thursdays, 7 to 8 a.m., Perkin’s, corner of University and Forsyth.

Meet for fellowship, prayer and discussion of God’s principles for business. Tuesday Details: Armand Dauplaise (407-221-3114 or adauplaise@aol.com) or www.cbmc.com.

Thursday Details: Steve Doerr (321-274-7072) or Jay Stauf (407-506-6737)

parentS ...............................

NEARHIM HOME EDUCATORS Supports and encourages families whom God has called to teach their children at home.

Details: www.nearhim.com

women ...............................

COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY (CBS) Wednesdays, through May 6, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Community Methodist Church on U.S. Highway 17-92. Study: Acts of the Apostles.

Details: Sandi McLaughlin (407-342-4765 or sandimclaughlin@yahoo.com) Confidence In Crisis Thursdays, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Panera Bread in Winter Springs (in the Publix plaza at Tuskawilla and Red Bug Lake roads).

Designed for women experiencing marital crisis with separation and/or divorce. Offering encouragement through prayer, discussion and

general upliftment. Details: Sandy Isaacs (407272-7522 or sandylisaacs@yahoo.com) MOPS (MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS) First and third Tuesday of each month, 10 a.m., east/central Orlando. Meet other moms and get refreshed. Details: Jackie Howe (407281-9276 or congagirl@earthlink.net) Redeeming Femininity Thursdays, beginning April 2, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Reformed Theological Seminary, Oviedo. For women who struggle with sexual and relational brokenness, emotional dependency, same sex attraction, gender identity and other genderrelated struggles. Details: Lisa Phillips (407949-7193, ext. 1796) or Rachael Butler (407949-7193, ext. 1781) Women of Prayer Removing Mountains Conference Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Vonette Bright, co-founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, will be featured, along with the wellknown group Avalon. Tickets are $45 and include lunch. Details and registration: 407644-3061, ext. 216, or www.fbcwp.org WORKPLACE MINISTRY First Tuesday of each month, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Orlando. J4 Leaders, an interdenominational ministry for women to help encourage one another to succeed with a biblical worldview.

Details and reservations: sschultz2@cfl.rr.com or 407-522-4797

Looking for the job listings?

You can find them at jobs.northlandchurch.net.

FINANCIAL Report

...............................................................................................................

As of March 16, 2009 Electronic giving is available at the kiosks located in the foyer or online at www.northlandchurch.net. Offering envelopes are Evangelical Council for available at all giving boxes and can also be mailed to your home for Financial Accountability convenience. Details: Twila Roberts (407-949-4000) ...............................................................................................................

TITHES and OFFERINGS This Week This Quarter This Year

Need $240,000 $2,640,000 $2,640,000

Received $238,883 $2,380,886 $2,380,886 Surplus / (Deficit) ($1,117) ($259,114) ($259,114) *

*Shortfall is currently being covered by reserve fund. ...............................................................................................................

BUILDING FUND This Week This Quarter This Year

Need $41,200 $453,200 $453,200

Received $33,941 $322,105 $322,105 Surplus / (Deficit) ($7,259) ($131,095) ($131,095) LOAN BALANCE is currently $20,240,833 ...............................................................................................................

ATTENDANCE for weekend of March 14 to 16, 2009 Northland at Longwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,388 Northland at Mount Dora . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 289 Northland at Oviedo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342 Northland at West Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 Northland Webstream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,676 at 993 sites Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,848 at 997 sites

15

oviedo ...........................................................................

Whom do I contact if… ............................................................

Dr. Don Pederson, Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1804 Ed Wood, Vice Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1794 Peter Katauskas, Secretary/Treasurer . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1809 Fred Franz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1766 Dan Hardaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 Marcus Mennenga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7169 Paul Rahill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1798 Felipe Santos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7168 Thom Willis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000

Hagerty High School 3225 Lockwood Blvd., Oviedo, FL 32765 Hagerty High School is located on Lockwood Blvd., between E. Mitchell Hammock and E. McCulloch roads.

I am in crisis?

Northland’s main line . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 I want to seek counseling?

Counseling referral line . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7204 I have a prayer request?

Prayer request line . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4025 I need the Hospital Ministry to pay a visit?

Linda McCulloch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7149 I want to become a member?

Ruth Sapp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4039 I have accepted Christ into my heart and wish to be baptized?

Sharon Ferreira (adult/student) . . . . 407-949-7189 Diane Jones (infants–grade school) . . 407-949-7188 I need information on Student Ministries?

Student Ministries office . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4007 I need information about Children’s Ministries?

Longwood: Debbie Blahnik . . . . . . . 407-949-7162 Mount Dora: Tanya Carpenter . . . . . 352-735-3832 Oviedo: Michelle Smith . . . . . . . . . 407-718-5510 West Oaks: Derika Hacker . . . . . . . 407-473-4537 I am interested in Distributed Journeys?

Patti Harshey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-0573 I want to help at Northland?

Longwood: Calvie Hughson . . . . . . . 407-937-1831 Mount Dora: Bill Chapman . . . . . . . 352-434-4116 Oviedo: Amanda Hartley . . . . . . . . 407-222-7374 West Oaks: Derika Hacker . . . . . . . 407-949-7191 I want to get involved in a local serving project Vanessa Puleo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7156 or visit www.northlandchurch.net I am getting married?

Sharon Ferreira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7189 I need to plan a funeral?

Sharon Ferreira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7189 I would like to order CDs, DVDs, Tapes and/or newspapers?

Network Sound Inc . . . . . . . . . . . 407-834-8555 or northlandorders@networksoundinc.com

Northland at Oviedo Community Center (NOCC) 561 E. Mitchell Hammock Road, #300 Oviedo, FL 32765 Oviedo blog website . . . . . . . . . . oviedo.northlandchurch.net

longwood ...........................................................................

530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750 www.northlandchurch.net / info@northlandchurch.net Main Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 Main Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-830-9840 longwood blog site . . . . . . . . . . . blogs.northlandchurch.net Bookstore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7199 Steve Bruton, Manager Donna Duckhorn, Assistant Manager Patricia McManus, Assistant Manager Bookstore Hours: Monday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Tuesday–Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CLOSED Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:15 to 7 p.m.

Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 5:15 to 8 p.m.

Children’s Ministries Debbie Blahnik, Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7162 Lori Gagnon, Early Childhood Administrator . . . . . 407-949-4010 Julie Meeker, Grade School Administrator . . . . . . 407-949-7153 Pam Anderson, Co-op Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7179 Pastoral Care Scotty Alderman, Pastoral Care Coordinator . . . . . 407-949-4035 Elaine Harland, Care Ministries Coordinator . . . . . 407-949-4402 Worship Services Ruth Sapp, Congregational Services Director . . . . . 407-949-4039 Susan Cholewa, Site Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-0544 Kathy Campbell, Deaf Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-328-4785

mount dora ...........................................................................

The Seventh-Day Adventist Church 18440 Highway 441, Mount Dora, FL 32757 The Seventh-Day Adventist Church is on the left side of the highway. Look for the “Northland” sign.

Mount Dora blog site . . . . . . mountdora.northlandchurch.net General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7184 Bill Chapman, Site Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352-434-4116 bill.chapman@northlandchurch.net Frances Merritt, Site Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-554-0076 Cell: 352-409-7777 or jasonandfrances@comcast.net John Tucker, Setup/Takedown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321-438-9961 wyoming01@earthlink.net Ann South, Carpenter’s House for Children . . . . . . 352-267-3388 south4@comcast.net Kitty Merritt, Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352-589-1770 Tanya Carpenter, Children’s Ministries . . . . . . . . . 352-735-3832 tcarpenter@cfl.rr.com Marilyn Faber, Celebrate Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . 352-357-0983 marilynfaber@comcast.net Brent Williams, Youth Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . 407-754-4428 bwilliams@sdccfl.com

Counseling Northland partner, nonprofit counseling ministries.

Discovery Counseling Dennis Gowin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-376-3773 Oviedo Counseling Clinic Sarah Baker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (407-366-9493, ext. 256)

General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 Dr. Dan Lacich, Pastor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-367-9612 Jeremy Jobson, Site Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-929-3053 jeremy.jobson@northlandchurch.net Amanda Hartley, Site Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-222-7374 amanda.hartley@northlandchurch.net Erica Emler, Student Ministries Coordinator . . . . . 407-687-8570 erica.emler@northlandchurch.net Michelle Smith, Children’s Ministries . . . . . . . . . . 407-718-5510 michelle.smith@northlandchurch.net Kathy Franz, Boys Town Liaison . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-415-7678 Prayer — For prayer requests or to join the Oviedo prayer team contact Amanda Hartley (amanda.hartley@northlandchurch.net) Good Samaritan Ministry — Help someone who really needs it, right now! Sign-up and details: Maggie Jobson (mjobson@cfl.rr.com) Be in the Know — Get on the e-mail list for ongoing events and information. Details: Amanda Hartley (amanda.hartley@ northlandchurch.net)

west oaks ...........................................................................

St. Pauls Presbyterian Church 9600 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee, FL 34761 St. Pauls Presbyterian Church is located across from the West Oaks mall. The entrance is off Citrus Oaks Avenue.

West Oaks blog website . . . . . . westoaks.northlandchurch.net General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1747 Tommy Novak, Site Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352-989-7378 tommy.novak@northlandchurch.net Derika Hacker, Children’s Coordinator . . . . . . . . . 407-473-4537 derika.hacker@northlandchurch.net Lou Amadori, Setup/Teardown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-493-7343 lamadori@cfl.rr.com John & Maxine Hammerstein, Prayer Coordinators . 407-877-8896 maxinehammerstein@mac.com Kip Conway, Tools at Your Service . . . . . . . . . . . . 321-460-2546 Patti Novak, F.A.I.T.H. Neighboorhood Center . . . . 352-989-7478 Prayer — For prayer requests or to join the West Oaks prayer team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John and Maxine Hammerstein 407-877-8896 or maxinehammerstein@mac.com

LifeHope LifeHope is a benevolence ministry that serves people in need in our church family and community for the purpose of connecting them to a relationship with God and Christian community through worship, equipping and service. It is the privilege of our ministers to love, listen, pray with and serve you during your first visit. They will help assess your priority needs and eligibility to be considered for assistance. Our LifeHope staff will then guide you toward your next steps. This may require an additional visit. Our strongest desire is to empower and equip you to live the life God has for you. Details: Laura Young (407-949-7151) LifeHope Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to noon, at Northland’s Student Ministries and Care Center.

Access Ministries While meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities has always been important to our church, we are working on expanding the programs and services offered. These efforts are being led

by Laura Lee Wright, Northland’s Access Ministries team leader (407-937-0549 or lauralee.wright@ northlandchurch.net).

We can best accommodate your needs if you arrive early for service. Details: Congregational Services (407-949-4000 or congregational.services@ northlandchurch.net) Special Needs/Cry Room: It is located at the west end of the main foyer in room 4128.

Parking: The front parking lot is reserved for those with special needs.

Special Needs Seating: People with wheelchairs, walkers or other special needs have designated seating areas throughout the sanctuary if needed.

Lyrics for Visually Impaired: Printed lyrics are located at the Welcome Center.

Sunday School: Classes for children through fifth grade with special needs is on Sundays at 11 a.m.

Buddy Breaks: With Nathaniel’s Hope, we offer respite for parents of kids with special needs.

Check the Belong section in the Northland News for details.

Assistance for Those With Hearing Loss: Signed worship service is Sundays, 9 a.m. Sound amplification aids are available at the Welcome Center.

directory

governing elders ...........................................................................

BELIEVE 16

preaching the message this weekend dr. joel c. hunter, senior pastor

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Dr. Hunter believes we can accomplish more because of our differences than we would on our own—without giving up our unique identities. He says, “Both spiritual and intellectual maturity grow from differences. A distributed church uses contrasts to accomplish Kingdom purposes.”

Since June 1985, Dr. Hunter has served as senior pastor of Northland. Before bringing his family to Northland, Dr. Hunter served as a United Methodist pastor for 15 years in Indiana. He and his wife, Becky, have been partners in the ministry since their marriage in 1972. A longtime bridge builder who seeks common ground for the common good, Dr. Hunter approaches today’s issues in a biblical and balanced manner. He serves as a national and international leader both in compassion issues and on boards of agencies such as the National Association of Evangelicals and the World Evangelical Alliance. >>> TO READ MORE ABOUT DR. HUNTER, VISIT WWW.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET.

THIS WEEKEND’S MESSAGE:

RELEVANT READS:

Elements of Salvation Saved by Grace

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scripture focus:

Ephesians 2:8-9 (NASB)

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For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Worship focus: ................................................................................................................................................

Worship God today for His grace. His grace means His goodness to those who deserve only punishment.

(Wayne Grudem) Summary prayer: ................................................................................................................................................

“O Lord our God, accept the fervent prayers of your people; in the multitude of your mercies, look with compassion upon us and all who turn to you for help; for you are gracious, O lover of souls, and to You we give glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.”

(Book of Common Prayer 395, taken from “In Me. In You.,” produced by Asbury Theological Seminary) NOTES:

Northland’s bookstore recommends these books that relate to this week’s foci: SERMON RESOURCES • What’s So Amazing About Grace?, by Philip Yancey • Captured by Grace: No One Is Beyond the Reach of a Loving God, by David Jeremiah • Grace Walk, by Steve McVey • All of Grace, by Charles Haddon Spurgeon • The Doctrines of Grace, by James Montgomery Boice and Philip Graham Ryken LENTEN RESOURCES • Invitation to Solitude and Silence: Experiencing God’s Transforming Presence, by Ruth Haley Barton • Seeing What Is Sacred: Becoming More Spiritually Sensitive to the Everyday Moments of Life, by Ken Gire • The Practice of the Presence of God, by Brother Lawrence • Resting Place: A Personal Guide to Spiritual Retreats,

by Jane Rubietta • Solitude & Silence Bible Studies, by Jan Johnson Bibles are 25% off every day at Northland’s bookstore.

REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR BIBLE TO WORSHIP SERVICE

DOWNLOADS At Northland’s website (www.northlandchurch.net), you can download today’s message and sign up to receive the Here@Northland weekly e-newsletter!

Egypt

Italy

Trip 2 and 3

(Open to college students and adults) Dates: June 25-July 6 Estimated Cost: $2,800 Team Leader: Alan Chantelau (alan.chantelau@northlandchurch.net) Application Deadline: April 25

(College students and adults) Dates: June/July Estimated Cost: $2,500 Team Leader: Lauren Roberts (lauren.roberts@ northlandchurch.net) Application Deadline: May 20

Trip 4

The teams will work at Wadi Sports Camp with students who are passionate about using sports to serve God. Coaches with various sporting skills (soccer, volleyball, tennis, swimming, basketball, martial arts, etc.) are needed to help train middle and high school students. All team participants will have opportunities for cultural exposure as well as building relationships with Egyptian believers.

(College students and adults) Dates : September 22October 3 Estimated Cost: $2,500 Team Leader: Kevin Urichko (kevin.urichko@northland church.net) Application Deadline: July 18 A Mercy Ministry team will join members of Kasr El Dobara to minister at hospitals, orphanages, nursing homes, and in poor areas. Prayer walking as well as worshiping in an Egyptian church will be included in this trip.

Egypt and Spain

Jamaica Dates: June 13-20 Estimated Cost: $1,300 Team Leaders: Liz and Jack Gritter (lizgritter@cfl.rr.com)

(Open to college students and adults) Dates: June 23-July 5 Estimated Cost: $3,200 Team Leaders: Gus Davies and JT Lacich (gus.davies@northlandchurch.net) Application Deadline: April 23

During the first part of this journey, team members will travel to Egypt to be trained at Kasr El Dobara in Cairo.

There, participants will learn about different cultures and customs gaining a better understanding of them, and learn how to engage other cultures in friendship.

Following training, the team will travel to Barcelona, Spain and will gain hands-on experience as they conduct outreach to the population there.

Indiana (Open to college students and adults) Dates: June 14-20 Estimated Cost: $400-$500 Team Leader: Tim Poindexter (iww5000m@hotmail.com) Application Deadline: May 14

The northern city of Pordenone is the setting for this mission. A team of 12 will have two main tasks. First, to pray, pray, pray! Prayer walks will take place during the day around the cities of Pordenone and Conegliano as we ask God to break through the barriers that keep people from coming to know Christ—secularism, materialism, self-righteousness, etc.

Second, the team will evangelize in the evenings through street concerts (all genres of music). There will also be opportunities to work with members of the Pordenone church by sharing meals and ministering together.

Assist with the rebuilding of homes affected by the Midwest flooding in 2008. Working with affected homeowners from the Columbus First Assembly Church, this team will minister to people who have lost their homes—and their hope—in the floods. Basic construction skills are helpful, but not required. The team will continue to repair and rebuild flood-damaged homes and strengthen an ongoing relationship with Pastor Andreasen and his church family.

This might be considered a vacation spot for many, but it is also a country with many physical and spiritual needs.

As in past years, a youth team will help with construction, and feeding and clothing needy children. Relationship-building, and opportunities for worship and sharing one’s faith also will be part of the trip.

South Africa (College students and adults) Dates: April 17-28 Estimated Cost: $2,300 Team Leader: Twila Roberts (twila.roberts@northlandchurch.net) Trip Closed - Team Full An 11-day trip will take place to Khayelitsha Township (outside Cape Town). Living conditions range from near homeless poverty to working-class poor. This team needs people who can provide practical training in various job skills, including (but not limited to): computer, mathematics, reading and composition. The team will also assist the Way of Life Church in the local high school by providing teacher training, student tutoring and life-training skills. They will also be presenting PurityWorks training for Way of Life Church and Vredelust Church. The ability to function for several days while immersed in a crosscultural setting is important.

Sri Lanka

Ukraine

(Open to college students and adults) Dates: July 10-20 Estimated Cost: $2,900 Team Leader: Marc McMurrin (marc.mcmurrin@northlandchurch.net) Application Deadline: May 10

Trip 1

This is a unique mission trip opportunity — a partnership with Adrian DeVisser and Kithu Sevara Church. Half of the team will be Ukrainian and the other half will be American.

They will come together to serve as one in ministering to the orphans and widows that Kithu Sevara supports at their camp outside of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.

Team members will work directly with the orphans in a fun Vacation Bible School atmosphere. This is an extraordinary opportunity to serve on a multi-cultural team. Please note: All applicants will be required to complete a special application and interview prior to team acceptance.

Swaziland Trips 1, 2 and 3

(Families with high school students, college students and adults) Trip 1 Dates: June 23-July 12 Application Deadline: April 23 Trip 2 Dates: June 25-July 5 Application Deadline: April 25

Wisconsin (Open to families with children ages 13 and up, college students and adults) Dates: August 8-16 Estimated Cost: $600 Team Leader: Laura Lee Wright (lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net) Application Deadline: June 6

If you enjoy spending time camping, building relationships, and have a heart to serve, consider being a camp counselor at Camp Daniel, a camp for folks with a variety of disabilities. During the week, each team member will be assigned a camper and spend the week swimming, doing Bible study, arts and crafts, playing games and worshiping together.

This is an excellent mission opportunity for anyone from teens through seniors.

Three different teams will make the journey to this poverty-stricken country to the city of Siteki, to serve with others from the city of Vredelust and Way of Life Church. The first team will stay in Swaziland for two weeks. Team 2 will stay the first week and return home, while Team 3 will arrive the second week and return home with Team 1. Individuals interested in teaching, planning/ playing kids’ games, basic construction, leading Bible studies, medical training, mentoring, developing income-generating programs, and playing with children will enjoy this trip.

Keep up with the teams you are praying for, financially supporting, and on which you have friends and family who are serving on a Distributed Journey.

Work with university students who are learning English through a conversational English environment. The program will include seminars, games, sports, Bible lessons and worship. Build relationships and share your faith with the students.

Work in a remote area of Ukraine with a Ukrainian team to minister in the lives of 120 orphans.

Conduct programs that include games, sports, Bible lessons, worship, skits and crafts. Show the love of Christ through a caring and interactive engagement with these children and support the Ukrainian team.

Estimated Cost: $2,800 Team Leaders: Sean Cooper (sean.cooper@ northlandchurch.net) and Dan Lacich (dan.lacich@ northlandchurch.net)

distributedjourneys.northlandchurch.net

(Open to college students and adults) Dates: July 1-10 Estimated Cost: $2,500 Team Leader: Randy Bishop (randy@randybishop.com) Application Deadline: May 1

(Open to families with high school students, college students and adults) Dates: June 20-30 Estimated Cost: $2,500 Team Leader: Randy Bishop (randy@randybishop.com) Application Deadline: April 20

Trip 3 Dates: July 2-July 12 Application Deadline: May 2

Distributed Journeys BLOG:

Trip 2

Ways You Can Support a Distributed Journey

1. Pray.

2. Give to the Distributed Journeys Scholarship Fund to help our youth and adults minister around the world. Designate “Distributed Journeys Scholarship Fund” as a note attached with your financial gift.

Still have questions?

Visit Northland’s website (www.northlandchurch.net) and select the “Serve Others” tab.

Then you can select the “Be Sent on a Distributed Journey” box.

If you still have questions after reviewing this site, feel free to contact Patti Harshey, Northland’s Distributed Journeys administrator (407-937-0573 or patti.harshey@ northlandchurch.net).