Northland News Vol 10/Iss 37

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED

| www.northlandchurch.net

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SEPTEMBER 12 - 19, 2009

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VOLUME 10, ISSUE 37

come to God for mercy, come as beggars, and not as creditors: they mercy, for sovereign grace, and not for anything that is due.

They who truly come for mere

—Jonathan Edwards

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What’s Happening This Week?

LONGWOOD

LONGWOOD SITE Saturday, SEPTEMBER 12

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

Prayer Meeting Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 LUGRox

SUNday, SEPTEMBER 13

7:30 am 8:30 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 9:00 am 10:30 am 10:45 am 10:45 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 2:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:30 pm

Prayer Meeting (cc) Marriage Prep Class Worship (cc)* (hi) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 1 Peter Class Step Parenting Class Crown Class (cc) Financial Peace University Financial Peace University Philippians Transformers Study (cc) Worship (cc)* Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 Special Needs Class Answers to Prayer Class (cc) Infant Dedications Discovering God’s Will (Singles) If You Want to Walk on Water (Singles) Young Believers Step 1 O2 (High School students) Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 MOMS4MOMS Meeting College Ministry

Monday, SEPTEMBER 14

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

MOMS4MOMS Meeting Beth Moore Study Precepts Faithful and True Men’s Group Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 Grief Share Life on Hold Women’s Group Step Forward Ministry Common Ground Young Adult Ministry

Friday, September 18 Prayer Room Sanctuary ECW CWW The Rink/SMCC Prayer Room The Rink/SMCC Sanctuary ECW CWW 4213-15 4210 4205 4206-7 1116-18/SMCC 4209 F.Hall/SMCC Sanctuary ECW CWW CWW 4204 Sanctuary 4206-7 4205 5108-9/CWW The Rink/SMCC Sanctuary ECW CWW F.Hall/SMCC The Rink/SMCC F.Hall/SMCC 4206-7 4213-15 F.Hall/SMCC Sanctuary ECW CWW 4204-9 4217 4213-15 The Rink/SMCC

TUESday, September 15

2:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Near Him Home Educators 1116-18/SMCC Beth Moore Study The Rink/SMCC Crown Class 1111,1113/SMCC Financial Peace University F.Hall/SMCC DivorceCare 4205, 4208-10, 4213-17 AMEN 4206-7 Conquering Fear, Anger, Anxiety (cc) 4204 Joy of Living 4209-10 Family Care Counsel 2211 Helping Hearts F.Hall/SMCC Doulos The Rink/SMCC Bringing Up Boys 4204 Faithful and True (Women) 5108-9/CWW NOW – Doctrine of Man Sanctuary NOW – Following Jesus in a Globalized World 4213-15 NOW – Bible Basics 4206-7 NOW. WOW! CWW

THURsday, September 17

6:30 am 6:30 am 6:30 am 6:15 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Men’s Bible Study Men’s Praise and Prayer Women’s Prayer Marriage Course Access Parent Support Group Precepts Bible Study Parents of Prodigals Financial Peace University Crown His Way Blanket Ministry

4:30 pm

1118/SMCC 1104/SMCC 1116/SMCC The Rink/SMCC 5106-7/CWW 4210 4209 5100/CWW 4205 F.Hall/SMCC Hospitality Suite

Middle School Retreat Check-In

CONT’D CWW

Saturday, September 19

4:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Prayer Meeting Prayer Room Worship (cc) Sanctuary Infant/Walker – K’s ECW Grades 1–5 CWW Infant Dedications/Baptisms Class 4206-7 Couples Café Nature’s Table Café

(CWW) Children’s Worship Wing (SMCC) Student Ministries and Care Center (F.Hall) Fellowship Hall (NOCC) Northland at Oviedo Community Center

What’s on the Web?

w w w. northlandchurch . net

MOUNT DORA SITE SUNday, SEPTEMBER 13

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, September 15 6:30 am 7:00 pm

Men’s Bible Fellowship Celebrate Recovery (cc)

WEDNEsday, September 16

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

Women’s Bible Study Homeschool Play Group Gathering 242 Women’s Bible Study CREW352

friday, September 18 7:00 pm

Mount Dora Home Group

Sanctuary Room 15 Room 15 Room 1 Rooms 2-3 Youth Room Sanctuary Room 15 Room 15 Room 1 Rooms 2-3

SUNday, SEPTEMBER 13

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 9:00 am Grade School 9:00 am Christmas Musical Rehearsal 11:00 am Worship (cc)* 11:00 am Infants 11:00 am Classes for 2’s - 3’s 11:00 am Classes for 4’s - K’s 11:00 am Grade School 11:00 am AXIS: Middle School Ministry 5:00 pm AXIS: High School Ministry

Rooms 2-3 TBD F.Hall Rooms 2-3 Sanctuary

6:30 am 7:00 pm

Auditorium 9-109 9-107 9-105 8-107 Children’s Check In Auditorium 9-109 9-107 9-105 8-107 Hallway NOCC

Discerning the Voice of God (Women) Harrington home

Connection Group (Men) The Life of Joseph (Couples)

WEDNEsday, September 16 6:00 pm

NOW Classes (cc)

SATURday, September 19

9:00 am 6:30 pm

Men’s Flag Football Crazy Cards

NOCC Wiest home NOCC Long Lake Park NOCC

WEST OAKS SITE SUNday, SEPTEMBER 13 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

Saturday, September 19 8:00 am

Men in the Word

Join the Northland Community on …

www.facebook.com/northlandchurch Various locations

Monday, september 14

TUESday, September 15

NEW! Connect instantly to your favorite social networks ... and more!

Rooms 2-3 Calvary Chapel

OVIEDO SITE

7:00 pm

WEDNEsday, September 16

9:00 am 10:00 am 12:30 pm 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

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

Chapel 215 215 211 213 104/F.Hall 104/F.Hall Music Room Sanctuary/F.Hall Conference room

Get Northland Updates via …

www.twitter.com/northlandchurch

Distributed Sites @ Home

Are you interested in starting a distributed site in your home or another setting? If so, contact Dan Lacich (407-367-9612 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 Sundays, 5:30 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 the prisoners with whom we worship concurrently: Seminole County John E. Polk Correctional Facility Sundays, 9 a.m.

Serving the men’s dorms.

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

Details: Jail ministry voice mail (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, Inter-generational Leadership, Personal Ministry and Partnership.

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 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.

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.

coming up

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

Thursdays, 6:15 to 9 p.m.

September 17-October 29 The Rink, Longwood site

Wednesday @ 7 p.m.

More info on page 12.

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

Don’t miss the first week of class!

Join us at Longwood, Oviedo or online

FIND OUT MORE:

now.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

13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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 Print and Public Relations Connie Rainwater, Director of Content Development Tracy Bardwell, Production Artist Barbara Olsen, Director of Adult Equipping Newspaper Volunteers Becky Hunter, Editor-at-Large Jeff Hawkins, Photographer Sarah Hall, Photographer Bob Wegner, Photographer Rick Bradshaw, Photographer Robb Richardson, Photographer

Speaker: Isaac Hunter Senior Pastor at Summit Church, Orlando Friday, October 16, 6:45 p.m.

The Rink, Longwood site Tickets: $15 (Available at the Northland Bookstore) More info on page 12.

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Doulos Encourages High Schoolers to Love as Christ Loves

By Brian Katauskas High School Minister Student Ministries

I

t may be difficult to find a community of people dedicated to encouraging and challenging one another to love like Christ has loved us, but this very community exists for high school students at Doulos, held Wednesday nights in the Rink at the Longwood site. We gather to worship God for who He is and what He has done and to be equipped to serve in our community.

We know God has called us to love Him and love others.

Every day God places in our paths opportunities for us to love others. We want to challenge these students to wake up every morning asking God to help them see and take these opportunities to love and serve both Him and others.

Emily Jones is one of the “servant leaders” who is a part of Doulos on Wednesday evenings. She attended the Doulos retreat August 21 to 23, and below she shares a little about her experience.

Q: Tell us about your history with Doulos.

A: This is my third year as a servant leader at Northland,

and my second time to go on the Doulos retreat. I was looking forward to the weekend at the beach, for it was the first weekend after school had started and the last weekend before my show opened. I had no idea that the expected hiatus would be such a motivating couple of days.

Q: How did the retreat impact you personally?

A: The first night, Brian and Sean baptized three other

news@mountdora

Emily Jones and others were baptized in the ocean. More photos from this retreat on page 7.

students and me in a cold, dark ocean with powerful rip tides.

Parents and loving friends gathered to watch the pivotal act of obedience. At every session, we were challenged to love, make Kingdom noise, be examples of love in action and resist

resistance. And my talented friends and peers led worship.

We split up into various small groups according to our rooms, Noise groups, grades, and schools. This allowed us to branch out from our close friends and comfort zones. Free time and mealtimes were full of picture-taking, games, walks in the sand, swimming and pure bonding with one another. I grew closer to new people and reconnected with old friends.

Q: How were you encouraged?

A: On Sunday, those in my room went out on the beach

at 6 a.m. to see the sunrise. What a grand way to be rejuvenated and encouraged in God’s majesty! The different stages of the sun’s entrance into the sky reminded me of the different stages of our relationships with God. First, the utter darkness of sin envelops us in the transitional time of morning when the moon and stars both hide. Then, light seeps into the darkness and tinges the horizon pink with hopeful knowledge of salvation through Christ. As we embrace and accept His love, the navy blue fades into a mixture of periwinkle, peach and gray that sends hesitant bright rays out into the remaining sky of our lingering habitual sins.

Finally, the burning sun peaks over the clouds and reflects brilliantly off the water; the entire sky is filled with the light of pure obedience, passion, purpose and love for our Savior.

As the sun works its way high into the sky, darkness fades, and all that can hinder the shining light are clouds that cover it spontaneously. These clouds of relapse, depression and slip-ups always pass, though, if you keep watching for the sun to break through with the help of God. This year’s Doulos Retreat has motivated me to keep those thoughts in my mind as an image of hope and His devoted love for us. It has reminded me of how important it is to reconnect with my friends, as well as encouraged me to wake up early each morning, read the Bible and jot down a few lines before my feet even hit the floor. I am so excited for my junior year in leadership, to love on my middle school girls and grow even closer to my fellow servant leaders.

CREW352 Youths Gather to Worship Bill Chapman Northland at Mount Dora Site Minister

W

hat is Northland at Mount Dora’s bestkept secret? Why, CREW352, of course!

The CREW consists of middle and high schoolers who convene for worship, the Word, fellowship and fun at the Mount Dora site. The acronym CREW stands for “Christians radically encouraging worship,” and 352 is our phone area code. These students love God, and they love each other, too. You can find the CREW gathered each Wednesday evening for games, pizza, music and Scripture, and again on Sunday mornings for a youth Bible study. If you are a student and you are looking to connect with Christians who will point you to Christ, come check out CREW352.

And if you are a parent, we welcome you to come and use your gifts to encourage and inspire these young people in Christ!

CREW meets at 7 p.m. each Wednesday in the sanctuary at Northland at Mount Dora, and at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday in the Youth Room. Details: Lyndsey Coyle, Mount Dora’s youth coordinator (352-978-7004 or septemberflash@yahoo.com)

The CREW serves special refreshments to the adults.

Opportunities for students on page 7. >>> MOUNTDORA.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

James Coyle and David Lundberg greet worshipers as they enter the church.

The young men of CREW352 lead the group in worship.

news@oviedo

THIS WEEKEND! Small Groups Forum in the Foyer

We Are One Body!

JEREMY JOBSON Northland at Oviedo Site Minister

N

ow this is an interesting article to write as I continue the series of Africa articles in reflection on the mission trip 12 people from the Oviedo congregation took in July. Why? Well, because the pastor from South Africa who was the catalyst for this all being possible is here at Northland preaching this weekend. Pastor Leon is the senior pastor for Vredelust Church, our partner in Cape Town, South Africa, who has spearheaded the work at the Global School alongside Pastor Cleopas, the local pastor in Siteki, Swaziland, that we have been blessed to be a part of for the last five years!

I am sure his message will be great and, more importantly, that our relationship with him and his congregation, as well as the work we are all involved in there together, will be strengthened.

That is the amazing thing about the body of Christ – we are all so very different, yet so very much alike. In a country that seems so divided and segmented and focused on how different we all are, I am recognizing more and more since flying halfway around the world just how alike we are.

We all want to be loved, recognized, known, heard, valued, seen, counted, wanted, held, cared for, included and welcomed. Many of us have very different stories, circumstances, backgrounds,

pasts, presents, futures, careers, social circles, families, friends, things, homes, cars and musical interests, but we all have one chance, one hope, one Savior, Christ! That is what makes us more alike than different, no matter what it may look, sound or feel like! In fact, the enemy wants us to believe we are all different because a main tactic he uses in his work against us is isolation. Satan came to Christ alone in the desert, and he wants you to feel alone, too. But what if we knew that wasn’t true, ever, because you were already accepted and a part of something? What if we lived like it did not matter where you came from, what you wore, how you labeled yourself, what music you listened to because “in Christ” that is true, we are all one body!

Paul definitely felt this way; just listen to his words: Romans 12:4-5 says it this way: “Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others (NIV).”

First Corinthians 12:12 states, “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ (NIV).”

Furthermore, Ephesians 4:25 says, “for we are all members of one body (NIV).”

And Colossians 3:15 states, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful (NIV).”

I love this last one, live in peace with one another as His peace rules in our hearts, and be thankful! An attitude of gratitude is infectious. I am grateful for being shown by God that Pastor Leon and I and you are all much more alike than we are different, thanks to Christ’s completed work! >>> OVIEDO.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

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Sunday, September 13, before and after worship services. Get plugged into a group and enjoy time together with prayer, fellowship, study and encouragement (Hebrews 10:24). Details: Amanda Hartley (407-222-7374 or amanda.hartley@ northlandchurch.net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NEXT WEEKEND! Crazy Cards

Saturday, September 19, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., NOCC. Join us for a night of fun, fellowship and friendly competition! If you’ve never played crazy cards, don’t worry, you’ll catch on quick and be hooked.

(Adults only, please.) Details and RSVP: Tim Brown (timbrown@cfl.rr.com or 407-466-8868) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NEXT WEEKEND! AFRICA DAY

Sunday, September 20, after the 9 and 11 a.m. services, auditorium. Join us as we share a short video and testimony about what God is doing in Africa and how He has invited us to participate with Him. Details: Jeremy Jobson (407-929-3053 or jeremy.jobson@northlandchurch.net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2nd- to 5th-Grade Bible Study “Walking With Jesus”

Wednesday, September 23, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Cox home. This is the first in a four-part study series designed to teach the children how to recognize when God is leading them through the Holy Spirit and how to make the quality decision to do what God wants in every area of their lives. Details and RSVP by Sunday, September 20: Michelle Smith (michelle.smith@northlandchurch.net or 407-9515691) or children’s check-in desk Opportunities for students on page 7.

news@westoaks ‘One Thing’ Off and Running TOMMY NOVAK Northland at West Oaks Site Minister

T

he Student Ministries of West Oaks, called One Thing, is off to a great start. As the leaders have been meeting over the past two months and making plans for the year, the kickoff event this past Wednesday was a blast! The goal of the fall is “One Thing”: to share the Gospel with teenagers in such a way that they understand how much God loves them and desires them to love Him and others the same way. Our hope is the fall will be a time when our teenagers will bring their friends, and they will respond to Christ and make a decision to follow Him. Then, in the spring, we will train and teach them to respond to who Christ wants them to be.

As I have spent time with our youth leadership team members, I am amazed at how different each of them is, but also how many teenagers we can reach because of those differences. I have shared with them how God is going to bless them as they use the gifts He has given each of them, and I believe they are beginning to see the truth of that even after our first meeting.

Please keep praying for our leadership team members as they continue to get to know these teenagers and get involved in their lives. We want every kid to know how much God loves him or her, and then care for and love these kids the best we can. If you ever want to come and check out what we are doing, please feel free to come anytime. We are always looking for others who would like to serve teenagers and are willing to love them in such a way that they see Christ in you. Let me know if you want to be a part of this ministry to teenagers.

From here on, we will meet on Monday nights at our home

THIS WEEK! Ladies Night Out at the movies

(the Novaks’), beginning September 21, from 7 to 8 p.m., with some hangout time afterward. Once we get started, we will look at other ways of teaching and training our teenagers as they grow in Christ. Be watching the Northland News for different opportunities we will offer our teenagers, and when and where those will be happening. If you have any questions regarding the Student Ministries, “One Thing,” or anything else dealing with teenagers, please feel free to call me anytime. I am so excited about whom God has called to lead our teens, and to see how God will use them.

What can you do? You can encourage any teenagers you know to come and be a part of this ministry. Also, you can pray for our leaders. Finally, you can get involved yourself.

In addition to the Student Ministries, you also can get involved in the ministry to the homeless, called Freeze Warning. We are looking for volunteers to sign up to serve dinner, serve breakfast, sleep at the facility, clean the facility after the homeless leave, or clean supplies used on the night of the freeze warning. Volunteers will be called with little notice (when there has been a freeze warning issued) and asked to fill the need. With the number of volunteers we have already, you may be called every third or fourth warning issued. But we still want you to volunteer if this is an area in which you would like to serve. We never have too many volunteers.

Remember, West Oaks will never be all that it is meant to be until everyone is using the gifts God has given him or her. Thanks for being a part of our community and for being willing to be used whenever and wherever God calls you. You teach me so much by serving so faithfully. I am so blessed to serve with you!

Opportunities for students on page 7. >>> WESTOAKS.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

Thursday, September 17, 7 p.m., West Orange 5 Movie Theater. Movie: Julie & Julia. Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika.hacker@northlandchurch. net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NEXT WEEKEND! Family Bowling Night

Sunday, September 20, 6 to 9 p.m., Carter Family Bowling, Winter Garden. Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika.hacker@northlandchurch. net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Out to lunch

Sunday, September 27, 11 a.m., West Oaks Fellowship Hall. Let’s gather to share a meal with those you worship with each week. Sign up in the foyer or on the evite with a dish to share. Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika.hacker@ northlandchurch.net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

volunteers needed in the Children’s ministries

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

Freeze Warning Ministry

Help prepare for those who are homeless by collecting pillows, pillowcases, blankets, sleeping bags and large storage containers. You may also sign up in the foyer to help cook, clean and minister to “the least of these” during the Freeze Warning events. Details: Tommy Novak (352-989-7378 or tommy.novak@northlandchurch.net)

servicenews

6

Celebrate Recovery at Northland!

by Mary Ann Mannen Ministry Leader

C

elebrate Recovery, initially introduced through our ministry at the Orange County Correctional Facility, where we have seen women break free from years of pain and bondage, will be available for everyone at Northland beginning November 6. Celebrate Recovery helps people transform their lives by overcoming their hurts, habits and hang-ups.

This program is based on the eight recovery principles taken directly from the Sermon on the Mount.

The Bible clearly states that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Because of this sin, we have hurt ourselves, we have hurt other people, and others have hurt us. This means we all need repentance and recovery in order to live our lives the way God intended. Most of us have heard the expression “Time heals all wounds.”

Unfortunately, this is usually not true. Wounds that are left untended can fester and spread infection throughout the entire body and can be handed down from one generation to another. The passing of time only extends the pain if the problem is not dealt with.

When we are hurt or we hurt others, this pain causes us to create self-protective strategies with the hope of preventing future pain. These strategies become habits and hang-ups, which then cause us to continue making the same destructive choices.

Through the use of the eight recovery principles as well as the 12 steps with Scripture references, these harmful self-protective strategies are uncovered. As we begin to accept God’s grace and healing, we begin to grow spiritually. We become free from our compulsive and dysfunctional behaviors. This freedom creates peace, serenity, joy and, most importantly, a stronger relationship with God and others.

At the Orange County Correctional Facility, each week 25 to 30 women gather to hear the Gospel and love of Jesus Christ taught through Celebrate Recovery. The program has allowed these women for the first time to begin to make significant changes with the hope of redirecting their lives from their past cycles of abuse and crime.

One precious example is Kaycee, who, after working the program, admits, “I was able to open my heart. This was something I hadn’t done in, well, forever. The painful, but promising, road to recovery has begun, and I have been able to see the reasons I have behaved the way I have behaved. I am getting to know the real me. I am being transformed in my heart.

“I was searching for many years to fill a void that only Jesus can fill,” she says. “I am so grateful for being involved in the Celebrate Recovery

program. I was sentenced to seven years in prison, but God is my strength, and He is able to keep me. The confidence that Gretchen and Mary Ann have for me has caused me to soar to new heights of possibilities for a bright, fulfilling future.

Despite the situation and physical bondage, I am set free.

‘Whom the Son sets free is truly free indeed.’”

Since recovery is an ongoing process, released inmates are encouraged to get into a Celebrate Recovery group near their home as soon as possible.

When Celebrate Recovery at Northland kicks off, this will provide released inmates from the Orange County Correctional Facility and John E. Polk Correctional Facility in Seminole County a place to immediately plug into. It also will be a place that offers encouragement and support to their families. Child care will even be provided.

Meetings will take place every Friday beginning at 6 p.m.

November 6 in the Children’s Worship Wing.

The schedule is: • 6 p.m. – Pizza or barbecue ($2 per person) • 7 p.m. – Large group beginning with praise and worship • 8 p.m. – Small groups (gender- and recovery-specific) • 9 p.m. – Solid Rock Café (Stay for coffee and desserts at no charge. Provides the opportunity to find an accountability partner or sponsor.)

Recovery groups include the following, with additional groups being added as needed: • Male chemical dependency • Female chemical dependency • Female co-dependency • Male sexual addiction • Parents of prodigals Volunteer opportunities: • Setup and takedown teams • Barbecue team • Group leaders • Child care • Worship team • Solid Rockers team • Financial team • Parking lot team • Information table We were created for relationship. The more authentic the relationships, the more connected we’ll feel. To be seen and understood, appreciated and loved for who we are is our greatest desire, because loving and being loved unconditionally is loving as God loves us. We are loved simply because we are His children, not because of what we look like, what we possess or what we do.

If you are interested in learning to live more authentically while working through your own “hurts, habits and hangups,” join us for Celebrate Recovery at Northland.

For additional information on participating in a small group or to volunteer, contact Laurie Jean Harrington (407927-4393 or lauriejean2@bellsouth.net) or Mary Ann Mannen (407-913-4777 or mmannen@cfl.rr.com).

Local Service Projects vanessa puleo Northland Local Service Projects Coordinator

Next Local Project Day: Saturday, October 17

O

ur next Local Project Day is coming up! On Saturday, October 17, we will meet at Northland at Longwood and distribute ourselves into the community on a variety of projects.

You may ask, “What is a Local Project Day?” It is a day when we meet for registration and prayer at Northland at Longwood, parking lot 3, and distribute ourselves to families and ministries in our local community that need help. All ages can participate on Local Project Days. There will be projects for all ages. This is a great time to serve with your whole family.

Typically, Local Project Days are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by a lunch at the church for everyone.

It’s easy to register. Visit www.northlandchurch.net and select “Serve Others”; then select “Serve Locally”; scroll down the list to October 17; select “Local Project Day”; then select “Join the group.”

You will be e-mailed project details that week. If you don’t get an e-mail, or have questions, feel free to contact me (407-949-7156 or vanessa.puleo@northlandchurch.net).

OTHER Upcoming Serving Opportunities

(Check the website for more listings, project times, locations, age requirements and other information.)

September 26 . . . . . . . . . Pathways to Care, serve lunch September 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Homeless Ministry Team October 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harvest Time International October 10 . . . . Coalition for the Homeless, cook dinner October 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Homeless Ministry Team October 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SWAT Team house project October 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Local Project Day October 17 . . . . . . Ronald McDonald House, cook dinner October 24 . . . . . . . Give Kids the World, serve breakfast October 24 . . . . . . . . . . . Pathways to Care, serve lunch November 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . SWAT Team house project November 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Local Project Day November 14 . . . Coalition for the Homeless, cook dinner November 21 . . . . . Ronald McDonald House, cook dinner November 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . Harvest Time International November 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Homeless Ministry Team November 27 . . . . . . . . Give Kids the World, serve dinner November 28 . . . . . . . . . . Pathways to Care, serve lunch December 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Homeless Ministry Team December 12 . . . Coalition for the Homeless, cook dinner December 26 . . . . . . . . Give Kids the World, cook dinner Details: Vanessa Puleo (407-949-7156 or vanessa.puleo@ northlandchurch.net)

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

OV = Northland at Oviedo

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

WO THIS WEEK! Student Ministries Kickoff

Wednesday, September 9, 6 to 8 p.m., Novak home. Middle and high schoolers and their families are invited to this kickoff celebration. Details: Tommy Novak (352-989-7378 or tommy.novak@northlandchurch.net)

Middle School Ministry

High School Ministry

LW LUGRox (Living Under Grace Rocks!)

Sundays, 5 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. 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)

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!

OV AXIS: Middle School MINISTRY

Sundays, 11 a.m., hallway. Details: Erica Emler (407-687-8570 or erica.emler@northlandchurch.net)

ATTENTION! All Middle School Students Young Life Southwind Camp retreat September 18 to 20 COST:

$145, if registration and payment are received

by September 13

$175, if registration and payment are received after September 13 Check-In: 4:30 p.m., September 18, Children’s Worship Wing Departure: 5:30 p.m., September 18, via Holiday Coach Lines Return: 2 p.m., September 20, Children’s Worship Wing Pick up a red brochure at the Welcome Desk.

Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@ northlandchurch.net)

LW O2 — Outreach, Worship, Teaching and Hangout Time

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 (407-6878570 or erica.emler@northlandchurch.net)

College Ministry (For students ageS 18-25)

Details: Jenny Shaw (jenny.shaw@northlandchurch.net)

LW College Gathering

Sundays, 7:15 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. Come and spend time in worship, prayer and the Scriptures.

7

studentministries

Middle & High School Students

WO = Northland at west oaks

8

My name is: __________________________________________________

Today we worship the God of miracles. In His mercy, Jesus healed the blind man. When we tell the world about the miracles Jesus has done – that’s worship!

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!

+

= M__ __ __C__ __

A miracle is an event or action that is a totally amazing, extraordinary act of God!

Bzzz.

Bzzz.

Who’s there?

Radio.

Today’s buzzword is MIRACLE! I heard it _____________ times.

I think it’s important to God because __________________________________________________

.

______________________________________________

Radio who?

Radio not.

Radio not who?

What was the name of the blind man that Jesus healed? Unscramble the letters to find out.

SIEMTAURAB

B__ __ __ __ __A__ __ __ Answer: BARTIMAEUS

Jesus Heals the Blind Man Mark 10:46-52 A blind man named Bartimaeus was sitting by the side of the road begging. He heard that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by. So he began to shout, “Jesus! Son of David! Have mercy on me!” Many people in the crowd told him to be quiet. But he shouted even louder, “Have mercy on me!” Jesus stopped and said, “Call for him.” So they called out to the blind man, “Cheer up! Get up on your feet!

Jesus is calling for you.” He threw his coat to one side. Then he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to be able to see.” Jesus said, “Go. Your faith has healed you.”

Right away he could see. Then he followed Jesus along the road. It was a miracle!

Radio not here comes a miracle.

Draw a picture of Jesus healing the blind man.

9

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES NEEDS 11 VOLUNTEERS

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

for Saturday and Sunday evenings!

7162 or Details: Debbie Blahnik (407-949et) ch.n hur ndc thla nor nik@ debbie.blah

This week tell someone about one of God’s miracles!

warm smile and gentle spirit have welcomed countless numbers of children each Sunday as they arrive to learn more about God and His love for them.

She has been a faithful and committed coteacher for the past two years. Thank you, Jennifer! Your love of God and love of the children is contagious!

i fer

Vo lu

nt

nn Je

Draw a line leading the bees to the cross.

o f the week: r ee Jennifer Kelsey’s

Kels ey

Hey there, why did you make that?

Search and circle each word you find from Mark 10:52. “Go,” said Jesus. “Your faith has healed you.”

Word bank: GO, SAID, JESUS, YOUR, FAITH, HAS, HEALED, YOU

F

J E S U S

A Y O U R A I

O G O E I

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

God sent the ravens to bring food to Elijah.

God provides for all of our needs!

We learned that God fills heaven with all good things!

equippingnews

10

Engage now. (Northland on Wednesdays) The NOW classes start this week! Class meeting areas are listed below. Or you can choose to join them live online at now.northlandchurch.net.

Theology

Bible

THE DOCTRINE OF MAN

BIBLE BASICS

Led by Dr. Joel C. Hunter in the sanctuary at Longwood. Find your purpose as you learn why God created man and what sets you apart as a believer in Christ.

Christian Living GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES

Led by Michael Van Huis (with guest speakers Donnie Scearce and Ted Esler from Pioneers) in rooms 4213-15 in Longwood. Answer, “How can I be Jesus in a global world?” Learn perspective and cultural engagement for the church today.

Led by Sean Cooper in rooms 4206-7 in Longwood. Explore the basic foundations of biblical thought. How did we get the Bible we read? What is the difference between inerrancy and authority of Scripture? How did church leaders decide which books to include in the canon?

LOOKING FORWARD NOW

2nd session: October 28-November 18 Theology: Eschatology, with Pastor Dan Lacich Christian Living: Finding the Ark in a Media Flood, with Loyd Boldman Bible: Psalm study, with Pastor Vernon Rainwater 3rd session: January 6-27, 2010

Fall Bible Studies at Longwood Site 1 Peter

Sundays, 9 a.m., room 4213. Led by Pastor Dan Lacich. Looking for a connection that will help you live out your faith with new vigor? Details: Jamila Millette (jamila.millette@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1832)

Study guide: $30 for the year. Details: Carolyn Robinson (407-260-9653 or crobins@cfl.rr.com)

Beth Moore studies (Women)

Thursdays, September 17 through November 5, 7 to 9 p.m., room 4210. If you are ready to dive into God’s Word, join this Precepts study of Matthew’s Gospel. Homework required! Workbook: $15.75, available the first night of class. Child care available upon request. Details: Geri Anderson (407-331-6760 or 2geri@cfl.rr.com)

To Live Is Christ: The Life and Ministry of Paul • Mondays, through November 16, 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., rooms 4206-07.

• Tuesdays, through November 10, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center.

Enhance your love for and devotion to Christ while learning with other women to persevere through trials as you gain a fresh perspective of God’s call on your life. Child care is available by reservation. Details and registration for child care: Cherrie Rowe (cherbear100@aol.com or 407-3226850)

Philippians

Book of Esther (Women 55 and over)

Matthew

Sundays, 10:45 a.m., room 4209. Study the book of Philippians to add more joy to your life and learn God’s secret of contentment. Details: John and Carolyn Jones (407-831-5822)

Revelation (Women)

Mondays, through November 23, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., rooms 4213-14. Through careful observation of the text, discover exactly what God says in this book of the Bible. Child care is available with advanced registration. Details: Melody Ringenberg (rringenberg@cfl.rr.com)

Joy of Living (Women)

Wednesdays, 9 a.m., rooms 4209-10. Join this 27-week interdenominational women’s study of the book of Genesis, with daily study questions, group discussion and a lecture time.

2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 1:30 to 3 p.m., room 1116, Student Ministries and Care Center. An in-depth Bible study, prayer and fellowship. Details: Jean Sherwood (407323-7869)

RELEVANTREADS

B

elow are some resources available in the Northland Bookstore that reflect the focus of this weekend’s worship service.

What’s So Amazing About Grace?, by Philip Yancey When it comes to difficult issues, Yancey isn’t afraid to ask hard questions, and he doesn’t give easy answers. Join him on a soul-searching pilgrimage into the meaning of grace. Combining poignant stories, personal examples and biblical insight, his insights can challenge the mind and heart with a liberating look at the driving force of our faith.

Future Grace, by John Piper Many men and women attempt to walk upright out of gratitude for what Christ did in the past, but Piper encourages believers to look ahead to what the grace God provides for on a day-by-day, moment-by-moment basis.

A Scandalous Freedom: The Radical Nature of the Gospel, by Steve Brown God has set us free — and at great cost — but many Christians live in self-imposed bondage. Rather than delighting in God’s grace, they are fearful of igniting His displeasure. As Steve Brown explains, too many Christians don’t trust freedom.

The implications of freedom, Brown asserts, can sometimes be dangerous, but the alternative is deadly: a life without joy and void of celebration of our unique gifts in Christ.

In the Grip of Grace, by Max Lucado Does God really love you, no matter what? The answer is found in one of life’s sweetest words – grace. God lovingly holds you in the eternal grip of His grace. Good deeds won’t help.

Perfect performance isn’t required.

Max Lucado proclaims the grace of God to be “the greatest discovery of my life.” Share in his discovery by taking a journey through the mountaintop truths found in Paul’s letter to the Romans.

Sharing Life Stories Saturday, September 26, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Northland at Longwood, Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink

J

oin this engaging one-day seminar to learn how to tell the stories of God through your own life story. Pastor Gus Davies leads this workshop and will help you discover how to use your natural styles, gifts and abilities to take Christ into the world every day.

To register: 1) Visit www.northlandchurch.net.

2) Select “Get Equipped” on the menu bar.

3) Select “Join a Connection Group!” (bottom right).

4) Select “Sharing Life Stories.”

5) Select “Join the Group.”

Child care is available; contact Diane Jones (diane. jones@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7188). Seminar details and registration: Patty Sattler (psattler@cfl. rr.com or 407-687-6265)

Pastor Gus Davies will teach you how to share your life story.

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

OV = Northland at Oviedo

Northland’s bookstore for $16. Registration is required; child care is available. Details and registration: Donna Delzingaro (407-937-1749)

events, ongoing study or ministry to the community.

LW

Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., room 4206. Learn to apply God’s Word to real-life situations. Details: Dan Bogdan (407-702-5358 or danbogdan@ landscapeorlando.com) or Buzz Vincent (407463-9398 or blv292@cfl.rr.com)

DIVORCED AND WIDOWED WOMEN’S 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)

LW DIVORCED WOMEN’S SMALL GROUP

Join others for ongoing encouragement and connection.

CONNECTION GROUPS

Connection Groups are ongoing groups that meet for friendship, worship, equipping and service. Some of these groups meet at a worship site, but most meet in homes across the community. While their locations, times and topics of study vary, the groups and their facilitators remain basically unchanged.

Join a Connection Group online (www. northlandchurch.net), or contact Barbara Olsen (barbara.olsen@northlandchurch.net or 407 949 7183).

LW BELONG STUDY MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY

Participate in the Belong study and have an opportunity to explore and become a member at Northland.

For Northland membership, 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: • Attend the four-week Belong study beginning October 18.

• Take the online Belong study at www.northlandchurch.net.

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

3) Those who complete the online membership process will be contacted by a membership coach by phone.

Online membership requires current personal contact information.

Details: Jamila Millette (jamila.millette@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1832)

CARE GROUPS

These groups are a vital part of the health of the church, as they provide ongoing support through difficult times for specific life issues, such as addiction, divorce, illness or loss.

LW BCAUSE—BREAST CANCER SURVIVAL

Any woman touched by breast cancer desiring prayer, fellowship, information and/or encouragement, contact Susan Diener-Blando (407-488-5941 or susandb@yahoo.com).

LW COPING WITH ADDICTIONS/CODEPENDENCY

Thursdays, 7 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. A Christcentered, 12-step program dealing 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 (407-599-9770)

LW DIVORCECARE

Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 4209-10. A 13week session in which individuals who have been through a divorce can experience personal growth and healing. Workbook is available at

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)

LW GriefShare

Mondays, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 4206-7. If you are experiencing grief due to the death of a loved one, this healing ministry walks you through the steps of grief. Workbook is available at Northland’s bookstore for $16. Details and registration: GriefShare voiceline (407-949-7152)

LW HOPE — Support For Those Struggling

with Fertility issues Last Friday of the month, beginning September 25, 7 p.m., Fire Station 21, 681 Seminola Blvd, Casselberry. Support group helping women, men or couples struggling with fertility issues. Share prayer, fellowship, encouragement and discussion as you walk this journey. Space is limited. Registration and details: Debbie (mikedeb540@yahoo.com)

LW Parents of the Prodigals First and third Thursdays of each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 4209. A support group helping parents cope with kids in trouble, in jail, on drugs, etc., and with serious behavioral problems. Child care available by reservation.

Details: Laurie Jean Harrington (lauriejean2@ bellsouth.net or 407 977 6742) LW STRUGGLING WITH HOMOSEXUALITY? (MEN) Wednesdays, 7:30 to 9:30 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: Zach (407-937-1793) LW SUPPORT FOR THE SEPARATED

Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m. Learn practical steps for healing, hope and reconciliation in the Lord following the painful journey of divorce.

Details on qualification and assessment: Donna Delzingaro (407-937-1749)

LW

Women in Conflict Peacemaking Support Group Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Gonzalez home.

Learn how to respond to conflict in a biblically faithful manner, based on the “4 G’s” found in The Peacemaker, by Ken Sande. Child care is not available. Details: Christina Gonzalez (407-923-1789)

MD DIVORCECARE

Sundays, 9 to 11 a.m., Conference Room.

This ministry provides opportunities for divorced individuals to renew their relationship with God by addressing the hardships resulting from their divorce by providing Bible-based teaching, support group discussions and prayer in a confidential setting. Details: Mitch Shipley (352-638-0441 or mns10@psu.edu) or Cindy Hall (352-589-1830 or chandnelly@earthlink.net)

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

Coming together around a single activity or shared trait, these groups meet for specific

11

WO = Northland at west oaks

LW AMEN (A MEETING OF MEN)

LW Belong Study Membership

OPPORTUNITY Sundays, October 18 to November 15, 9 to 10:30 a.m., room 4209. Participate in the four week long Belong study and also have an opportunity to explore and become a member at Northland. Details: Jamila Millette (jamila.millette@northlandchurch. net or 407-937-1832)

• Once a month, Mondays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. Child care provided with registration for infants to 5-year-olds.

• Once a month, Sundays, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. No child care provided.

Registration required. Details and specific dates: www.northlandmoms4moms.com

LW MOTORCYCLE GROUP

Fridays, noon to 1 p.m., e-mail for location.

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

All styles welcome. Must own a motorcycle and have a valid motorcycle license to participate.

Details: Lori Cooper-Keith (407-381-2051) • Central Florida Children’s Home Ride Saturday, September 26, 9 a.m., call for departure location. The home’s mission is to care for children whose parents either cannot or will not provide for them due to difficulties in the child’s life and/or difficulties in the parents’ lives. For donation information, visit their website (www.cfch.net). Children’s clothes, canned goods and Publix gift cards are accepted. The group will go to lunch after the ride. Details: Lori Cooper-Keith (407-381-2051)

LW BUDDY BREAK

LW PAGE TURNERS

LW BUSINESSMEN’S FRIDAY LUNCH

Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. Northland joins with Nathaniel’s Hope monthly to provide three hours of free respite for parents and caregivers of special needs children. Drop off your child with our trained volunteers. Details and registration: Laura Lee Wright (407-9370549 or buddybreak@northlandchurch.net)

LW

COMMON GROUND — YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY (Age 25-40) Mondays, 6:45 to 8 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. Join this fellowship of young adults seeking to build authentic Christian community, to grow spiritually mature and to affect the surrounding community with Christ’s love, reflected by serving God. Child care available upon request. Details: Mike Burke (mike.burke@northlandchurch.net)

LW COUPLES CAFÉ

Saturday, September 19, 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)

LW Divine Reflection Art Group

Second Thursday of each month, September through May, room 4209. Join other artists to reflect God’s glory and truth through the visual arts. This year’s focus: being Light. Book: Refractions, by Makoto Fujimura, available in Northland’s bookstore. Details: Laura Bates (carpearte@aol.com or 407-622-6873)

LW FLAG FOOTBALL

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

LW GOLF — links fellowship

• Friday, September 25, 7:45 a.m., Alaqua Country Club, cost: $40 • Friday, October 9, 7:45 a.m., Forest Lake Golf Club, cost: $32 Linking golfers throughout the world in Christ.

Golf, prizes, guest speakers (food optional — costs extra). Golfers of all skill levels are welcome. Details and reservations: Parks Reinhardt (407-880-9932 or linksfellowship@ cfl.rr.com)

LW Moms4moms

Get connected with other moms for friendship and encouragement through meetings and playgroup activities.

Third Tuesday of each month, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Special Needs/Cry room. Discuss a variety of classic and contemporary Christian books. A list of books is available in the Northland Bookstore. Details: Ruth Rudy (407484-3000 or ruthrudy@cfl.rr.com)

LW SENIORS GROUP

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: Marilyn Casey (407-273-2857)

LW SINGLE ADULT MINISTRIES

Fourth Sunday of each month, 4 to 6 p.m., room 4206. Join for worship, prayer, 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). Leave questions on the singles info line (407-949-7172). Learn more: christiansocial.meetup.com/189/.

LW SOCCER – ACHE

Fridays, 8:15 p.m., Red Bug Lake Park. No practices, no teams, no rules, just fun and fellowship. A $2 donation is requested. Details: Mike Cannavo (407-359-0191)

LW TENNIS

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

LW WORD WEAVERS

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

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) 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) MD SMALL CHILDREN/HOMESCHOOL PLAY GROUP Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to noon, location alternates; call for details. Details: Michele Pruitt (352-408-3909)

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Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

WO WEST OAKS PLAY GROUP Join us for fellowship and fun. Details: Sara Sundermeyer (407-575-6178 or scostantini@ hotmail.com) or Kimberly Fulmer (407-6563008 or kfulmer@earthlink.net) WO LADIES NIGHT OUT

Connect with West Oaks women each month.

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

MD = Northland at Mount dora

ADULT BIBLE STUDIES LW Matthew

Thursdays, September 17 through November 5, 7 to 9 p.m., room 4210. Homework required every week. Workbook: $15.75, provided the first night of class. Child care available upon request. Details: Geri Anderson (407-331-6760 or 2geri@cfl.rr.com)

LW 1 Peter

Sundays, 9 a.m., room 4213. Led by Dr. Dan Lacich. Details: Jamila Millette (jamila. millette@northlandchurch.net or 407-9371832)

LW Philippians

Sundays, 10:45 a.m., room 4209. Study the book of Philippians to add more joy to your life and learn God’s secret of contentment. Details: John and Carolyn Jones (407-831-5822)

OV The Life of Joseph (Couples)

Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Wiest home, Oviedo.

Details: Doug and Lisa Hill (dhill@orlandoteam. com or 407-681-7396)

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

BAPTISM LW ADULT BAPTISMS

Sunday, September 13, 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 in Jesus Christ (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)

LW CHILD BAPTISMS

Northland recommends the Steps for Young Believers course for children prior to baptism, but it is not mandatory. For information about grade-school student baptisms, contact Diane Jones (diane. jones@northlandchurch.net or 407-9497188).

LW INFANT BAPTISM/DEDICATION CLASS

Saturday, September 19, 7 p.m., rooms 4206-7. Child care is available upon request. Details: Diane Jones (407-9497188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net)

PRAYER LW CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES PRAYER TEAM

Pray weekly from your home for needs in Children’s Ministries. Details: Carol Moss (carol.moss@northlandchurch.net or 407949-7180)

LW MEN’S PRAISE AND PRAYER

WO THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT: LOVE Sundays, 10:30 a.m., conference room. Join us as we look at the greatest commandment from God’s perspective. Details: John Hammerstein (maxinehammerstein@mac.com or 407-877-8896)

MD Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman

Wednesdays, 9 to 11 a.m., rooms 2-3. The Old Testament story of Esther is a profile in courage and contains many modern parallels for today’s woman. Child care is available.

Details: Deborah Balic (407-832-9171)

MD Search for Significance Wednesdays, 7 to 8:15 p.m., rooms 2,3. A Robert McGee study to build your self-worth on God’s truth. Child care is not available. Details: Marilyn Faber (352-357-0983) or Christina Ferrito-Dugan (352-735-1974) OV Discerning the Voice of God

Mondays, 7 p.m., home of Laurie Jean Harrington. This Bible study from author and speaker Priscilla Shirer is designed to help participants know the voice of God: His language, character and tone of voice. Details: Laurie Jean Harrington (lauriejean2@bellsouth. net or 407-977-6742)

LW ISAIAH

Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1118. Join this open-forum discussion on the book of Isaiah: 45 minutes of study, and 15 minutes of prayer. Details: Ron Morris (ron@creativele.com)

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES LW Revelation Part 2

Mondays, through November 23, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., rooms 4213-14. Through careful observation of the text, discover exactly what God says in this book of the Bible. Child care is available with advanced registration. Details: Melody Ringenberg (rringenberg@cfl.rr.com)

LW The Joy of Living Wednesdays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., rooms 4209-10. A 27-week interdenominational study of the book of Genesis, with daily study questions, group discussion and a lecture time.

Study guide: $30 for the year. Details: Carolyn Robinson (407-260-9653 or crobins@cfl.rr.com) LW Third Verse

LW PRAYER GROUP

LW To Live Is Christ: The Life and Ministry of Paul — A Beth Moore Study Enhance your love and devotion for Christ while learning to persevere through trials as you gain a fresh perspective of God’s call on your life.

• Mondays, August 31 through November 16, 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., rooms 4206-07 Child care available by reservation.

• Tuesdays, September 1 through November 10, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student

WO = Northland at west oaks

• Sundays, beginning September 13, 8:45 to 10:45 a.m., rooms 1116-18, Student Ministries and Care Center.

A biblical study by Dave Ramsey that teaches how to manage money, reduce debt, prepare a budget and use resources in a godly way. Cost for materials (available at Northland’s bookstore): $99 if purchased with cash, check or debit card and $110 if purchased by credit card. Details and registration: Rich or Jana Haussmann (407688-2182 or rhaussmann@cfl.rr.com)

LW LEARN TO SPEAK CHINESE

Sundays, 1:30 to 3:15 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing, rooms 5202-9. 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 Lose It for Life

Mondays, beginning September 21, 10 a.m., rooms 4209-10. A uniquely balanced program that deals with the physical issues of overeating, and focuses on the emotional, mental and spiritual factors related to weight loss to help achieve permanent results. Child care is available upon request. Details: Marylou Caskey ( maryloucaskey@gmail.com).

LW The Marriage Course

MEN’S BIBLE STUDIES

Second and fourth Wednesdays, 1:30 to 3 p.m., room 1116, Student Ministries and Care Center. For women 55 and over. Study the book of Esther, pray and have fellowship.

Details: Jean Sherwood (407-796-4705)

OV Prayer Team Receive weekly prayer requests via e-mail for our Oviedo congregation and community. Details: Amanda Hartley (amanda.hartley@northlandchurch.net or 407-222-7374)

Ministries and Care Center. Child care available by reservation.

Details and registration for child care: Cherrie Rowe (cherbear100@aol.com or 407-322-6850)

WO JOHN Sundays, 10:30 a.m., West Oaks sanctuary.

Join others in studying “John: Theology in the Real World.” Details: Stephen Arnold (407358-9603 or stephenarnold4@cfl.rr.com)

Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1104.

Details: Dave McGregor (407-774-2952 or mcgregor449@hotmail.com)

Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1116. Details: Jean Sherwood (407-796-4705)

OV = Northland at Oviedo

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

ADULTS LW Answers to Prayer

Sundays, beginning September 13, 11 a.m., room 4204. Learn to pray and be challenged by the classic writings of George Mueller in modern language, which teach trusting in God alone to provide for every need in every circumstance of life. Details: Mickey and Cindy Mallin (407-322-6101)

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 DC4K Training DivorceCare for Kids is training leadership for the fall season. Do you feel called to work with children ages 6 to 12 who are experiencing the pain of divorce? Details: Elaine Harland (elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net or 407949-4002) LW DIVORCECARE FACILITATORS TRAINING

Facilitators are needed to work alongside the DivorceCare ministry. Learn to help those who are currently experiencing the pain of divorce find healing. Contact Elaine for an application and more information on training. Details: Elaine Harland (407-949-4002 or elaine. harland@northlandchurch.net)

LW Financial Peace University

• Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Care Ministries and Care Center.

Thursdays, September 17 through October 29, 6:15 to 9 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. Bring dinner and develop practical tools to apply to build a strong and healthy marriage that lasts a lifetime. For couples who want to enhance their marriage, are struggling with their marriage or are in challenging stages of marriage. Cost: $10 registration per couple and $10 for two workbooks. Child care available with registration. Details and registration: Barb Olsen (407-949-7183 or barbara.olsen@ northlandchurch.net)

LW Mentoring Workshop

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 a result of fatherlessness. The church needs to be the leader in this social crisis, or we face losing a generation of boys.

• Information sessions: Saturday, September 26, 9 to 10 a.m. or Saturday, October 17, 8 to 9 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink.

• Training class: Saturday, October 17, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. Led by Wade Trimmer of The Mentoring Project. Cost: $25 for early registration (forms available at the Welcome Desk), which includes training manual, lunch and refreshments.

Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net)

LW Respectfully Blended:

Help and Hope for Stepfamilies Sundays, August 30 through October 11, 9 a.m., room 4210. This class will focus on understanding the role of the stepparent in family relationships, bringing two families together financially, and building the husbandwife team in a blended family. Details and registration: Doug Hubbard (407-695-5100 or dougghubbard@gmail.com)

LW Singles Study — Discovering God’s Will Sundays, August 30 through October 11, 4 to 5:45 p.m., room 4206. Based on the book by Andy Stanley, this study will take you through the important steps of decision-making as you begin to discover the personal vision God has for you. Details: Lisa (godsgirl0202@yahoo.com)

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

LW Singles Study — If You Want to Walk on

Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat Sundays, August 30 through October 11, 4 to 5:45 p.m., room 4205. Based on the book by John Ortberg, this study will help you discover how to walk in God’s plan for your life in spite of fears and obstacles. Details: Liza (lizajohnson@ landam.com)

LW Strategies for Planned Purity

Mondays, September 21, 28; October 12, 19, 26; November 2, 16; 10 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall.

For parents and adults teaching lifetime training in purity of heart. Child care available by reservation: Morgan Perun (407-937-1757 or morganpurun@northlandchurch.net) Details: Jennie Bishop (407-792-8144 or jennie@ jenniebishop.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)

CHILDREN LW STEPS FOR YOUNG BELIEVERS

(GRADES 2 – 5) AND THEIR PARENTS These courses in basic discipleship include classroom sessions and daily at-home devotionals. Sundays, 4 to 5:45 p.m. Materials cost for each class: $5. Registration is required.

Details and registration: Diane Jones (407-9497188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net) • STEP 1—BECOMING A PART OF GOD’S FAMILY: September 13 to October 4 or October 25 to November 15. Focus: Salvation and assurance. Includes Communion instruction.

• STEP 2—THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: September 20 to October 18. Focus: Jesus’ Life A-Z, a basic discipleship theme and learning about the life of Christ. Baptism offered at end of course.

• STEP 3—LIVING BY THE BOOK, “C-ING” MY WAY THROUGH THE BIBLE: October 11 to November 15. Focus: To develop skills in exploring the Bible.

MEN LW Bringing Up Boys

Saturdays, beginning September 26, 8 to 9:30 a.m., First Baptist Church of Altamonte Springs. Learn and understand the unique challenges of raising boys. The four DVDs from Focus on the Family® and accompanying workbook will equip parents with the practical understanding, dynamic biblical principles, and encouragement they need to steer the boys they care about toward confident, responsible manhood. Details and registration: David Keys (NLMentoring@gmail.com or 407-256-5576)

LW FAITHFUL AND TRUE

Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall.

Join a fellowship of men pursuing sexual integrity. Workbooks are available at Northland’s bookstore for $17. Details and registration: Bryce Hagedorn (407-227-3072 or brycehagedorn@ yahoo.com) or Kevin Urichko (407-949-7166 or kevin.urichko@northlandchurch.net)

LW Winning at Work and Home

Thursdays, beginning September 24, 6:30 to 8 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, Fellowship Hall. This 8-week study by Dr. Robert Lewis of Men’s Fraternity explores how men can enjoy and engage in work and relate at home.

Details: Tom Horvath (Tom@tomhorvath.com)

OV = Northland at Oviedo

OV Connection Group Tuesdays, 6:30 a.m., NOCC. Connect as we talk through the weekly sermon topic and how to apply it to our lives. Details: Jeremy Jobson (jeremy.jobson@northlandchurch.net or 407929-3053) WO MEN IN THE WORD Saturdays, 8 a.m., St. Paul’s Fellowship Center, Conference Room. Read through Frances Chan’s book Crazy Love. Details: Jerry Murphy (407522-1672 or jerry.murphy@ieee.org)

service. Details: Laura Lee Wright (407-9370549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net)

LW Ushers and greeters

Greet and seat those attending worship services. Serve for two and a half hours every other weekend. No experience necessary.

Details: Susan Cholewa (susan.cholewa@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0544)

Serve your local community

WOMEN

Come together for a single service project or an ongoing cause.

LW FAITHFUL AND TRUE

LOCAL SERVICE PROJECTS For a project list and registration, visit www. northlandchurch.net. More info on page 6.

Details: Vanessa Puleo (vanessa.puleo@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7156)

Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing, room 5108. If you have a desire to live authentically, honestly, and intimately in your relationships, this group will provide hope and a safe place to heal if you have experienced sexual betrayal, deception, and lies of secrecy which keep you in bondage.

Details and registration: Vicki M. Wotring (520631-0886 or celebratelife3@aol.com)

LW Keeping Your Focus on Christ in the Middle of Marriage Crisis Mondays, 7 p.m., room 4217. A support group for women with biblical truths, prayer and Bible study using Linda Rooks’ book Broken Hearts on Hold. Child care available with registration by contacting Morgan Perun (morgan.perun@ northlandchurch.net). Class details: Gayle Montiel (407-493-4106 or gaylemontiel@cfl.rr.com)

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WO = Northland at west oaks

LW ACCESS MINISTRIES STEERING COMMITTEE

Seeking community professionals and stakeholders who have a heart for addressing community-based options for affordable housing and care for people with disabilities in Central Florida to serve on a steering committee.

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

(407-538-5209 or Pjg327@embarqmail.com)

LW PETPALS

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 RECOVERY MINISTRY

Volunteers with a heart for the hurting, and recovery or 12-step experience needed to help with a ministry. Details: Laurie Jean Harrington (407-977-6742 or lauriejean2@bellsouth.net)

MD VOLUNTEER AT THE CARPENTER’S HOUSE FOR CHILDREN This center in Lake County is home to 16 abandoned, displaced and medically needy children, ranging in age from 2 to 19 years. There are many opportunities for involvement. Details: Ann South (south4@comcast.net or 352-267-3388) or www.thecarpentershouseoflakecounty.com OV GOOD SAMARITAN Serve someone in need in your community through meal deliveries. Details: Maggie Jobson (mjobson@cfl.rr.com)

LW BLOOD DRIVE

OV International Friendship Ministries Serving locally with global impact through outreach opportunities to international students at UCF, including social activities, Bible studies, conversational English language practice and more. Details: Michele Moresi (407-694-7196 or sailingfan2@hotmail.com)

LW CELEBRATE RECOVERY MUSICIANS

OV Security Team Need volunteers to assist with security at the Oviedo site. Requires background check.

Details: Jeremy Jobson (407-929-3053 or jeremy.jobson@northlandchurch.net)

Saturday, October 3, Sunday, October 4, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Monday, October 5, 6:15 to 9:15 p.m. Give blood and save lives! Details: Susan Cholewa (susan.cholewa@northlandchurch.net)

Vocalists and musicians needed for the newly forming Celebrate Recovery Band. Details: Celebrate Recovery Ministry leader Mary Ann Mannen (407-913-4777 or mmannen@cfl.rr.com)

LW COVERING CARE BLANKET

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

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

Details: Nicole Roberts (407-699-8575 or mamaquad@earthlink.net)

Opportunities to serve.

volunteer

Ushers, greeters, child care workers and more are needed at all worship sites.

Longwood: Volunteer Central Calvie Hughson 407-937-1831 or calvie.hughson@northlandchurch.net Mount Dora: Bill Chapman bill.chapman@northlandchurch.net or 352-434-4116 Oviedo: Amanda Hartley amanda.hartley@northlandchurch.net or 407-222-7374 West Oaks: Derika Hacker derika.hacker@northlandchurch.net or 407-473-4537 LW MEDICAL FIRST RESPONDERS

During worship services and special events. BLS trained or medical professionals, especially EMTs, are needed. Details: Susan Cholewa (407-9370544 or susan.cholewa@northlandchurch.net)

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 SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN AND TEENS

Sundays, assist during the 11 a.m. worship

LW DISASTER RESPONSE TEAMS

Medical professionals, licensed CDL drivers, culinary professionals, veterinarians or vet techs, licensed mental health counselors and those interested in providing mental health services needed for the Northland Disaster Response Teams. Training provided. Details: Gretchen Kerr (407-949-7190 or gretchen. kerr@northlandchurch.net)

LW HELP WOMAN TRANSITIONING FROM JAIL

Volunteer needed to give one day to a woman who needs a second chance. Details: Jessica’s house resident manager, Dawn Canright (407541-7528 or dawncanright@gmail.com)

LW HELP INCARCERATED MAN

Man needed to come alongside an incarcerated man. No experience necessary. Minimum commitment: one hour per week. Details: Greg Kerr (407-770-8503 or gpkerr@mindspring.com)

LW JAIL MINISTRY

Minister to inmates in Seminole County or Orange County jails during Sunday 9 a.m. worship; Celebrate Recovery for women, Thursday afternoons; Assist women with long-term planning; Prayer team; Pen pals. Training provided.

Details: Jail Ministry voice mail (407-949-4007)

LW LONGWOOD HEALTH CARE CENTER

Sundays, 9 a.m., sanctuary. Give hugs and show love to the residents of the facility behind Northland on Grant Street. Details: Patsy Grannan

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) Christians In Public Education (C.I.P.E.) Breakfast Saturday, September 26, 8 to 10 a.m., First Baptist Church of Orlando, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando. All public school administrators, teachers and staff are invited to this encouraging annual event. Cost is $20. Make checks payable to “A Gift from God.” Details: Cheryl Eller (407-579-9831) or Roxanne Paulsen (407-758-4917 or christiansinpubliceducation@ yahoo.com) Central Florida’s Job Fair (CFEC.org) Wednesday, November 4, noon to 4 p.m.,

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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 preregister, 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 (407-5144356 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 sexual identity. Details: Cherrie Rowe (407-322-6850 or cherbear100@aol.com); inquiries are confidential.

GREAT DEBATE Thursday, September 17, 7 p.m., University of Central Florida Arena, Bldg. 50 North Gemini Blvd., Orlando. See the debate between Christopher Hitchens, atheist and anti-theist, and Dinesh D’Souza author of What’s So Great About Christianity (a comprehensive answer to a spate of atheist books denouncing theism in general and Christianity in particular.)

Free event. Details and registration: www. thegreatfaithdebate.com Harvest Time International Mission Ministry needs volunteers for four hours a week. Volunteer positions include: administrative, praying, ministering, helping families apply for benefits, and sorting food. Details: Terry (407474-0441 or www.harvest-time.org) 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) 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 Florida for the most current info on resources. Details: HSN (407-893-0133 or www.hsncfl.org) Senior Resource Expo Wednesday, September 23, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Parish Family Life Center, 710 Spring Lake Road. Celebrate Adult Day Services Week.

Expo will provide caregiver information, Adult Day Care tours, Health Screenings, musical

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

entertainment, free lunch, and information to assist seniors. Free admission. Details: 407831-9630.

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, 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) September Lunch Series with Isaac Hunter Every Tuesday, through September 29, noon to 1 p.m., First Presbyterian Church Orlando, 106 E. Church St. Senior pastor of Summit Church in Orlando, Isaac Hunter, senior pastor of Summit Church in Orlando, will address the gathering, and Dr. Joel C. Hunter will join his son Isaac as a speaker on Tuesday, September 15. Cost is $9 for lunch. Details and RSVP: www. thegathering.org

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 Wednesdays, through May 5, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Community United Methodist on 1792, Casselberry. Study: The Divided Kingdom (1 & 2 Kings and Minor Prophets). Child care available. Details: Sandi McLaughlin (407-3424765 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) DEEPER STILL — with Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer and Beth Moore Friday, September 18, 7 to 9:45 p.m. and Saturday, September 19, 9 a.m. to 5:30

Looking for local job listings?

You can find them at northlandchurch.net/blogs.

OV = Northland at Oviedo

p.m. Orlando’s Amway Arena. Hear three internationally-renowned Bible teachers and delve deeper in God’s Word through their teaching.

Cost: $75 per person. Details and registration: LifeWay Events (1-800-254-2022 or www.lifeway. 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) ON THE THRESHOLD OF HOPE Wednesdays, 5:50 p.m. to 7 p.m., The Parlor at Reformed Theological Seminary. Study this book by Diane Mandt Langberg, Ph. D., on opening the door to healing for survivors of sexual abuse. Details: Olivia Litwiller or Becky Valentine (407-949-4000, ext. 1789 or 1740) 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

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 1792, Longwood (407-260-9155).

LW

Christian and classic children’s books as well as parenting and marriage books are needed for the Northland Children’s and Family library. Books may be dropped off in the Children’s Ministry Office. Details: Bethany Durys (bethany.durys@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0541)

WO = Northland at west oaks

LW Nonperishable food items can be placed into the designated wooden boxes in the lobby and in the Student Ministries and Care Center. Details: Vanessa Puleo (407-9497156 or vanessa.puleo@northlandchurch.net) MD LOVE COLLECTION New collection each month. Visit the information table for list. Details: Ann South (south4@ comcast.net or 352-267-3388) or Sharlee Hollingsworth (shollingsworth2@cfl.rr.com) OV BOYS TOWN has donation buckets in the foyer as well as current needs lists and service opportunities. Details: Kathy Franz (klfranz@ aol.com or 407-415-7678) OV

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

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

WO

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).

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 Lu Pall (Mlupall777@yahoo.com) bed sheets and pillowcases and many other items are needed at Safehouse of Seminole for battered women and their children. Visit their website for a complete needs list (www. safehouseofseminole.org) Details: admin@ safehouseofseminole.org or 407-302-5220 vehicles are needed at Recovery House of Central Florida (www.recoveryhouseinc.org). It also needs pressure-washing equipment, power tools, and hand tools. Details: Erik Robinson (407-323-5857 or erikrhcf@yahoo.com)

FINANCIAL REPORT

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As of SEPTEMBER 7, 2009 Electronic giving is available at the kiosks located in the foyer or online at www.northlandchurch.net. Offering envelopes are available at all giving boxes and can also be mailed to your home for convenience.

Evangelical Council for Details: Twila Roberts (407-949-4000) Financial Accountability ...............................................................................................................

TITHES and OFFERINGS This Week This Quarter This Year

Need $237,553 $2,375,530 $8,615,530

Received $202,245 $2,275,283 $8,078,043 Surplus / (Deficit) ($35,308) ($100,247) ($537,487) *

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

BUILDING FUND This Week This Quarter This Year

Need $35,624 $356,240 $1,344,435

Received $26,659 $293,898 $1,124,546 Surplus / (Deficit) ($8,965) ($62,342) ($219,889) LOAN BALANCE is currently $19,705,833 ...............................................................................................................

ATTENDANCE for weekend of September 5 to 7, 2009 Northland at Longwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,913 Northland at Mount Dora . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185 111 worshipers Northland at Oviedo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379 joined Northland at West Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Northland via their iPhones.

Northland Webstream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,689 at 1,029 sites Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,285 at 1,033 sites

15

OVIEDO SITE

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?

Elaine Harland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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?

Shaylynn Stoner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7194 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 . . . . . . . 407-473-4537 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 Facebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Northland Church at Oviedo

LONGWOOD SITE 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 Website . . . . . . . . . . . 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 Teri Grayson, Early Childhood Administrator . . . . . . 407-949-4014 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 SITE 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 Website . . . . . . 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 Tanya Carpenter, Children’s Ministries . . . . . . . . . 352-735-3832 tcarpenter@cfl.rr.com Prayer Kitty Merritt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352-589-1770 Christina Ferrito-Dugan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352-735-1974 Marilyn Faber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352-357-0983 Ann South, Carpenter’s House for Children . . . . . . 352-267-3388 south4@comcast.net Marilyn Faber, Celebrate Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . 352-357-0983 marilynrfaber@yahoo.com Kelly Verkaik, Debbie’s Doorstep . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-310-5355 debbiesdoorstep@mac.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 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 SITE 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 Patti Novak, F.A.I.T.H. Neighboorhood Center . . . . 352-989-7478 LEADERSHIP TEAM Lou Amadori . . . . . . . . . . . 407-493-7343 or lamadori@cfl.rr.com Stephen Arnold . . . . 407-358-9603 or stephenarnold4@cfl.rr.com Jerry Murphy . . . . . . . . . 407-522-1672 or jerry.murphy@ieee.org Zack Fulmer . . . . . . 407-656-3008 or zack.fulmer@ronblue.com

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.

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.

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: Pastor Leon Oosthuizen

Leon Oosthuizen is senior pastor of Vredelust Church in Cape Town, South Africa, where he has served for the past 25 years.

Pastor Leon grew up in Stellenbosch, a university town close to Cape Town, where he studied theology. In later years, he did postgraduate studies to finish his doctorate. He was a pastor at a church in Windhoek for three years and then was called to Vredelust Church.

Vredelust was a typical mainline Reformed church. Fifteen years ago, the Lord led them to begin transforming this traditional church to a contemporary church with evangelical roots. Vredelust is now a strongly vision-driven church with a passion to transform lives and communities.

Vredelust has a special calling in post-apartheid South Africa to address poverty and have close relationships with Way of Life, a church in a nearby black township. Pastor Leon is excited about Jesus and the local church and is not afraid to think outside of the box and even to swim upstream!

Pastor Leon has been married to Ina for 32 years. They have two sons. One of them, Bartlo, is married to Ginny, and they live in Richmond, Virginia.

They made Leon and Ina grandparents a month ago, a role that Leon must still adapt to! Leon and Ina’s other son, Ockie, is a student in Stellenbosch, South Africa. >>> TO LEARN MORE ABOUT VREDELUST CHURCH AND OTHER NORTHLAND GLOBAL PARTNERS, VISIT www.northlandchurch.net/partners

THIS WEEKEND’S MESSAGE:

A Miracle Story Scripture focus:

Mark 10:46-52 (NIV)

Worship focus:

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Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (that is, the Son of Timaeus), was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.”

So they called to the blind man, “Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.” Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him.

The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.”

“Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

Worship Christ today as the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. We come as beggars into His presence, dependent on His mercy. For it is because of His mercy that He calls us, heals us, restores our sight, and enables us to walk with Him.

Notes:

NEXT WEEKEND:

Summary prayer: ......................................................................

Give us eyes to see Your wonders around us; Give us hearts to live into Your risky miracles; Give us tongues to praise You beyond our doubt.

For it is to You, only You, that we turn on behalf of the world That waits in its deathliness for Your act of life.

Amen.

— Walter Brueggemann, an excerpt from Awed to Heaven, Rooted in Earth

Dr. Joel C. Hunter | CHURCH: EVERYWHERE, EVERY DAY, EVERY ONE (1 Corinthians 16:19) | The Church: Christians Gathered | Matthew 18:20

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!