Northland News Vol 10/Iss 48

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED

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NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 5, 2009

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VOLUME 10, ISSUE 48

Among the oxen (like an ox I'm slow) I see a glory in the stable grow Which, with the ox's dullness might at length Give me an ox's strength.

Among the asses (stubborn I as they) I see my Saviour where I looked for hay; So may my beastlike folly learn at least The patience of a beast.

Among the sheep (I like a sheep have strayed) I watch the manger where my Lord is laid; Oh that my baa-ing nature would win thence Some wooly innocence!

– C.S. Lewis, Poems

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What’s Happening This Week?

LONGWOOD SITE

MOUNT DORA SITE

Saturday, NOVEMBER 28

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

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

F.Hall/SMCC Prayer Room THE RINK/SMCC ECW CWW

SUNday, NOVEMBER 29

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

Prayer Meeting (cc) Financial Peace University (cc) Worship (cc)* (hi) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 1 Peter Class Stepfamilies Class Crown Class (cc) Philippians (cc) Transformers Study (cc) Worship (cc)* Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 Special Needs Class Answers to Prayer Class (cc) Alpha Class Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5

Monday, NOVEMBER 30

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

8:00 am 2:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:15 pm

Unemployed Men Support Group Near Him Home Educators To Live is Christ—Beth Moore Study AMEN Crown Class Financial Peace University Divorce Care Conquering Fear, Anger, Anxiety

WEDNEsday, December 2 9:00 am 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm

Joy of Living Doulos Faith and Science Group Women’s Healing and Recovery Chris Tomlin Christmas Concert

THURsday, December 3 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Men’s Bible Study Men’s Praise and Prayer Women’s Prayer Crown Class Sacred Rhythms Connection Group His Way

Friday, December 4

5:00 pm 7:00 pm

Prayer Room 1116-18/SMCC Sanctuary ECW CWW 4213-15 4210 4205 4213-15 F.Hall/SMCC Sanctuary ECW CWW CWW 4204 4206-7 Sanctuary ECW CWW

To Live is Christ—Beth Moore Study Near Him Home Educators Lose it for Life Revelation Part 2—Precepts Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 Life on Hold Women’s Group Common Ground Young Adult Ministry Grief Share Faithful and True Men’s Group

TUESday, December 1

4206-7 1116-18/SMCC 4209-10 4213,15 Sanctuary ECW CWW 4217 The Rink/SMCC 4204-4208 F.Hall/SMCC

1112/SMCC 1116-18/SMCC The Rink/SMCC 4206-7 1111, 1113/SMCC F.Hall/SMCC 4209-10,13-17 4204

4209-10 The Rink/SMCC 4204 1111/SMCC Sanctuary

1118/SMCC 1104/SMCC 1116/SMCC 4205 4210 F.Hall/SMCC

CWW Sanctuary

Saturday, December 5

communion

Blanket Ministry Prayer Meeting Growing Kid’s God’s Way Worship (cc) Infant/Walker – K’s Grades 1–5 LUGRox

SUNday, NOVEMBER 29

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

4217 Prayer Room 4209-10 Sanctuary ECW CWW The Rink/SMCC

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

Monday, NOVEMBER 30 7:00 pm

Mount Dora Home Group

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

Various locations

TUESday, December 1 6:30 am 7:00 pm

Men’s Bible Fellowship Celebrate Recovery (cc)

Rooms 2-3 Calvary Chapel

WEDNEsday, December 2 7:00 pm

CREW352

Friday, December 4 7:00 pm

Mount Dora Home Group

Sanctuary

Various locations

OVIEDO SITE

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 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 6:00 pm Building Your Marriage (Couples)

Monday, NOVEMBER 30 7:00 pm

Life’s Healing Choices (Women)

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

Harrington home

TUESday, December 1 6:30 am 6:30 pm

Men’s Fraternity Groups (Men) NOCC Building Your Marriage (Couples) (cc $10) Welday home

Thursday, December 3

7:00 pm 7:30 pm

Awakening Your Sense of Wonder (Women) NOCC The Holy Spirit Bible Study Welday home

Friday, December 4

What’s So Amazing About Grace (Women)

Saturday, December 5 7:15 am

The Quest for Authentic Manhood (Men)

NOCC

NOCC

WEST OAKS SITE SUNday, NOVEMBER 29 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 Sharing Life Stories Christmas Musical Rehearsal

Monday, NOVEMBER 30 7:00 pm

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

Christmas Eve Worship Schedule NO TICKETS NECESSARY. Doors will open 30 minutes prior to service start time. All child care is listed under each site listing below.

All other children will worship with their families in the site sanctuary.

Wednesday, December 23 • Longwood and online 5 and 7 p.m.

Child care for those age 3 and under.

Thursday, December 24 • Longwood and online noon, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m.

Child care for those age 3 and under.

• Mount Dora — 4 p.m.

Child care for infants through kindergarteners.

SUNday, NOVEMBER 29

9:30 am

Celebrate Recovery Prophets and Promises

3:00 pm 4:00 pm 4:45 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:30 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 Sanctuary F.Hall

One Thing (Middle and High School students) Novak home

• Oviedo — 6 and 8 p.m.

Child care for nursery only.

• West Oaks — 6 p.m.

Child care for those age 3 and under.

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.; Mondays, 7 p.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)

ABOUT Northland

New to Northland?

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.

Welcome! We're so glad you decided to worship with us today, and we'd love to meet you ...

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

Please stop by the Welcome Center at any of our sites to connect with other newcomers, ask questions and familiarize yourself with what Northland's all about … “Bringing people to maturity in Christ.”

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

Again, we are so glad you came, and we invite you to become part of the Northland family! Help us get to know you by filling out the following form. Simply tear it out and drop it off at the Welcome Center or in any offering box after the worship service:

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 Join us for LIVE Webstream Worship at

Name______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Street_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City__________________________________________________________ State_________________ Zip__________________________________________ Home Phone___________________________________________________ Cell Phone__________________________________________________________ E-mail Address______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

www.northlandchurch.net

Site Attended__________________________________________________ Date Attended_______________________________________________________

during any of these worship times!

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.

Northland at Longwood

BLOOD DRIVE Saturday, December 5 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 6

8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Monday, December 7 6:15 to 9:15 p.m.

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

3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Welcome / Coming Up

Come to the Water

Get baptized as a public profession of your faith in Jesus Christ. (Matthew 28:19)

Sunday, December 13, 2 p.m.

More info on page 12.

4-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spotlight News / Site News 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Serve News

Inner State 80

7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student Ministries 8-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The BeeHive Worship Guide for Kids

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS OFFER!

10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Equipping News 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Now through December 25, save when you buy copies for friends and family!

BELONG

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

BELIEVE

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

BECOME

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

BE SENT

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

BEYOND

Available at Northland’s bookstore and InnerState80.com!

1 copy = $12

2 copies = $20

3 copies = $25

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

All proceeds benefit Northland’s facilities.

NORTHLAND NEWS

Publish His glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things He does. (Psalm 96:3, NLT)

Newspaper Volunteers Becky Hunter, Editor-at-Large Bob Wegner, Photographer Sarah Hall, Photographer Rick Bradshaw, Photographer Robb Richardson, Photographer

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

Poinsettias…

Send newspaper correspondence to: newspaper@northlandchurch.net

to honor or memorialize your loved ones.

!

Newspaper Staff Dede Caruso, Coordinator/Production Artist, Media Design Melissa Bogdany, Copy Editor Robert Andrescik, Director of Print and Public Relations Connie Rainwater, Director of Content Development Barbara Olsen, Director of Adult Equipping Tracy Bardwell, Multimedia Designer, Media Design

Give the gift of serving at one or more of our Christmas services.

To place your order by Wednesday, December 2, fill out this form (please print clearly) and place it, along with $6 for each plant, into a tithe envelope found at the offering boxes.

Label the envelope “Poinsettias” and deposit it there. Checks should be made payable to Northland.

Details: Sarah Mattingly (407-949-7170 or sarah.mattingly@northlandchurch.net) Plants will Site you attend: [ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] West Oaks be placed as decorations at all distributed sites and In honor of:_ __________________________________________________________ will be available for pic December 26 to 28. Sto kup p by We lcome Center to receive the In memory of:_ ________________________________________________________ plant. All unclaimed pla your nts will be taken to area Given by:_ ____________________________________________________________ nursing homes.

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Come, O Lord Jesus

By GUS DAVIES Pastor

A

news@mountdora

dvent is a time of preparing to welcome again God’s gift of love shown in Jesus Christ. Advent means coming. In our corporate worship each week this month, we include the Advent litanies – Scripture readings and prayers designed to be used with an Advent wreath, a circular evergreen with three or four purple candles and one pink candle, plus one white candle in the center representing Christ.

The candles symbolize hope, peace, joy and love as Christ, the Light of the world. Each candle is lit on the appropriate Sunday of Advent. The evergreen symbolizes renewal in Christ for His first and second coming. All the circular shapes symbolize the completeness of God. This is a worship tradition carried out in our churches by individuals and families among Catholics and Protestants alike.

It is being the church everywhere, every day and for everyone.

I remember as a boy growing up in our Anglican church, St. Matthews, in Sierra Leone, West Africa, my parents strongly held this tradition at home and in our local congregation. It was a time of reverence when we read the Scriptures, meditated on them and prayed together as we anticipated the coming of Christ that we celebrated on Christmas Day. I also remember it was time for me to contemplate the gifts I would receive when the weeks of the tradition were over.

One hymn, among many others, by Charles Wesley that we sang at church has never left my memory. It is titled “Come, Thou Long-Expected

Truly Thankful Bill Chapman Northland at Mount Dora Site Minister

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aul wrote these words to the fledgling church in Thessalonica: “We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well” (1 Thessalonians 2:8, NIV). He and his apostolic companions cared so deeply for these new Christians that they experienced the bond of family with them.

Mount Dora, this is how I feel about you. I am thankful for you. The many times we have studied the Word together, the lunches at Subway and The Chew Chew Express, the times we have shared at

Jesus.” Haggai 2:7 says, “‘I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty” (NIV). The sound from the pipe organ, the voices in four-part harmony, the choirmaster conducting, the choir robes, the decorations in the sanctuary and much more as we sang that hymn all still echo in my heart and mind today. Those days I needed to learn patience and wait for December 25 so that I would receive the gifts that came on Christmas morning.

Later in my journey with Christ, I learned that waiting is a spiritual virtue. God will bless our patience when we wait in obedience. The loving God who invites us to wait for our Savior and Lord invites us to take inventory of ourselves.

Advent is a time to reflect and abide in the relationship we long for day by day. Waiting can be a challenge. So during this time of preparing to celebrate the coming of the Christ child, let us ponder in our hearts areas in our lives where our Savior needs us to be healthy, to grow and to be mature.

Some of the lines in the song I referenced above read, “Dear Desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.

By Thine own eternal Spirit, rule in our hearts alone; by Thine all sufficient merit, raise us to Thy glorious throne.”

I continue to be amazed at what a worthy tradition that was given to me by my parents.

Today, I sincerely cherish this practice and encourage believers to incorporate Advent devotionals for their spiritual journey not only in public worship, but in their homes and places of private worship. Let the Advent readings and prayers in our worship services prepare us all for our ongoing spiritual journey. We await His final return someday. But every day Christ’s presence comes to us in our homes, neighborhoods and communities, and with others in the Kingdom far and near. Prayerfully consider those around you who need to experience the love of God through you. They wait to see the Christ we proclaim by our acts of compassion, faithfulness and steadfastness in times like these, and the assured hope of His return to take us home in glory!

Maranatha!

Gathering 242, the variety of ways in which you have invited me to walk through challenging circumstances with you, the Helping Hands projects, the hugs I receive every Sunday, the times of prayer and fellowship and strategy – I am so thankful for these experiences, and for you.

Earlier this fall, God gave me a dream about you. I dreamed that the back deck of my home was covered with a large number of beautiful potted trees. Each tree was slightly different from the other. Some bore fruit; some, beautiful flowers; and some, lush, green leaves. Shining upon, around and through every tree was brilliant sunlight. These trees represented each of you. The beauty, variety and fruitfulness of each tree reflected the diversity of backgrounds, gifts and hearts that you have. And I had the privilege of being among you, as the Holy Spirit bathed you in His life-giving Light!

This weekend, among the many things I am thankful for, you rank right up there at the top. And as 2009 draws to a close and we move into the next year, I know that God has incredible things in store for our Northland at Mount Dora family. Mount Adorables, I am thankful for you!

Women of Mount Dora gather each week to study the Word of God together.

>>> MOUNTDORA.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

Mount Dora youths gather to plan CREW352 events. Opportunities for students are on page 7.

Gift Card Angel Tree

Help support The Carpenter’s House for Children this Christmas season!

November 22 through December 13.

Tony, Romi and Tito take a break from setting up for Gathering 242.

The Mount Dora grade school kids enjoy their time of fellowship and having their photo taken with their minister.

Pick a name from the Gift Card Angel Tree located in the lobby beginning Sunday, November 22. Return it with the requested gift card in an envelope by December 13. It’s easy to do, and there’s no wrapping involved! Details: Ann South (352-267-3388 or south4@comcast.net)

news@oviedo

Where Do We Go From Here?

JEREMY JOBSON Northland at Oviedo Site Minister

of life as a shepherd, which made him aware of all he was not. Now he was useful to the Lord!

In the second story, we have a group of wise men, Magi, who were so revered and astute that they were given the task of watching the skies for signs and wonders of life.

These were men who had reached a pinnacle and climax of position in society; they were able to put together gifts of o what do the Magi and Moses have in common? frankincense and myrrh, rare and extraordinary items, to And what does that have to do with us? bring to this King they knew was coming. This is the other Great questions. As we begin the Advent end of the spectrum – men who had gotten so far along in the season, I am inspired by these two stories from intellectual process, searching wisdom and truth out, that Scripture that are the proof text for today’s sermon: they ended up in the same place as Moses, humble servants to Exodus 3:1-6 and Matthew 2:7-9. In the first text, the one who was greater than they. Knowledge brought them we have a guy who has been brought to the end to the same place, the foot of the Lord, wanting to know who of himself, Moses. He probably remembers a time He was and what they were to do now. when he had power, status and prominence, even I think as we enter Advent, this is a powerful picture for thought he knew what he was called to do, defend us. The Lord uses everything, good and bad circumstances, his people, and in his search for truth, life and own strength tried to death, everything to draw Go and make disciples of all nations, do it, killing an Egyptian us into a more intimate baptizing them in the name of the and forcing him to flee knowledge of who He is and Father and of the Son and of the the land. then a humble position of But then after service to the call He has for Holy Spirit, and teaching them to wandering in the desert us in this life, to bring glory obey everything I have commanded for 40 years, he has to His name! you. And surely I am with you given up trying to figure I am sure a question out what he is called to Moses and the Magi shared always, to the very end of the age. do, his greater purpose, in common was one we -Matthew 28:19-20 and has instead should often ask ourselves accepted the role he knows he has, humble service and, more importantly, our heavenly Father: “Where do we and leadership of his family and his father-in-law go from here?” Then we must realign all we do, all we are, – so much so that when he sees a burning bush, all we believe around what He has in store for us. In case you and is called over to it, told it is holy ground and are wondering what the answer to that question is (and there given instructions, he responds simply, “Who am I?” is a more personal and unique answer for each of us, but like He had let go of any self-capability and come to Moses and the Magi, there is also an answer that applies to all the realization that he was not this great man. He of us), read Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:7-8. reached that point of surrender through a series of humbling circumstances and the mundane drudgery >>> OVIEDO.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

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OVIEDO Children’s

Christmas Musical

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TWO performances: • Sunday, December 6, 12:30 p.m., auditorium, Hagerty High School • Tuesday, December 8, 7 p.m., The Stage, 1425 Tuskawilla Road, Suite 145, Winter Springs (in the Chick-fil-A plaza on Red Bug and Tuskawilla roads) Details: Amanda Hartley (407-222-7374 or amanda. hartley@northlandchurch.net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

“Simply Jesus” Women’s Christmas Gathering

Wednesday, December 9, 7 p.m., Reformed Theological Seminary. Bring a guest and join us for an evening of reflection and celebration with desserts, worship and fellowship. $5 per person.

Register at the Connections table or by contacting Terry Tinsley (tatinsley@mac.com or 407-4918700). If you are interested in hosting a table or baking, please let Terry know as well. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Christmas in the city

Sunday, December 20, 1 to 5 p.m., Oviedo Aquatic Center, 148 Oviedo Blvd. Brought to you

by OneBody, a coalition of committed churches and individuals working together with The HOPE Foundation to make a direct impact on poverty, hunger and homelessness in our community. Join us as we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, and enjoy songs of the season, a shared meal, children playing, giving and receiving. Details: ChristmasintheCity@HelpfortheHomeless.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

news@westoaks Celebrate the Gift of Giving in December TOMMY NOVAK Northland at West Oaks Site Minister

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ver the years, we have loved and served many families in need in the West Oaks community through the Christmas season. This year I hope to do the same thing. One way we can do this is by giving sacrificially every week in December. We are teaming up with other churches in the area to do this together. So, over the next four weeks, we will have a specific item (or items) we will collect and distribute to those in need: • Sunday, December 6 – Toy Sunday. We are collecting brand new toys to be given to families in need. This includes toys for children of all ages.

• Sunday, December 13 – Sock Sunday. We are collecting socks to give away to the homeless. Our goal is to provide 180 pairs of socks to those who need them.

• Sunday, December 20 – Undies Sunday. We will provide underwear for those who are in need. All sizes are needed.

• Sunday, December 27 – Grocery Gift Card Sunday. This event serves to kick off the new year by providing gift cards for those families who are in need of food.

This is just another way we can continually look outside ourselves and do something that matters for those around us.

Remember when Jesus talks about this in Matthew 25:34-40?

The words Jesus uses are priceless! He says (NIV):

Then the King will say to those on his right, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” Then the righteous will answer Him, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?” The King will reply, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

The reason I want to do these kinds of things as a body of believers at West Oaks is because I believe what Jesus said in that passage. Whenever we do these kinds of things to and for the least of them, we are doing it for Jesus.

I also would like to say that if you are in need during this time for whatever reason, please let me know so we can help you. We all know how tough it is right now with everyone, but I believe this is something we are all called to do and be about, so we are all blessed when we can help someone else.

I also understand how difficult it is to ask for help, but if you can let me know your needs personally, we will do our best to provide help for you and your family.

We are the church, and I want you to know how blessed I and my family are to be walking and growing in Christ with each one of you. I pray your Christmas season is filled with joy and peace! >>> WESTOAKS.NORTHLANDCHURCH.NET

Opportunities for students on page 7.

WEST OAKS Children’s

Christmas Musical

Sunday, December 13, 10:30 a.m., Sanctuary.

Come enjoy the telling of the Christmas story from the children of West Oaks. Details: Derika Hacker (407-473-4537 or derika.hacker@northlandchurch. net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

December Gift Giving Sundays

Sunday, December 5. Don’t forget to bring your brand new toys to donate. Details: Tommy Novak (tommy.novak@northlandchurch.net). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

volunteers needed

Many volunteers are needed: ushers, greeters, and helpers in the areas of security, Children’s Ministries, Student Ministries, setup, cleanup, hospitality, special events and more. 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 also may 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) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Opportunities for students on page 7.

servicenews

6

Disaster Response Team: Be All You Can Be in Jesus

By GRETCHEN KERR Director of Life Crossroads

Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season. . . with great patience and careful instruction. –2 Timothy 4:2 (NIV)

W

e are faced with so many disasters throughout our lives. They can come in the form of natural disasters, such as hurricanes and tornados; fires; transportation accidents; or other tragedies. More than 500 Northlanders have stepped forward with willing hearts to accept the opportunity to serve in times of disaster. Partnerships and collaboration have created new lifelong relationships and opened doors to amazing opportunities for training and service to the community.

Our partnership with ACTS World Relief has provided the Disaster Response Teams (DRTs) with an opportunity to prepare and serve food from the mobile kitchens to families affected by a disaster.

To keep the teams ready to spring into service, the mobile kitchen teams will go into the community and serve meals, simulating disaster deployments to serve survivors and first responders a wonderful meal prepared and served with loving hands and hearts.

A mobile medical unit will be outfitted to support the needs of the community. Medical professionals on the team are designing the interior. Equipment and medical supplies will be necessary to finish this project. The medical team members use their God-given gifts, talents and experience to serve the immediate need for health and well-being of survivors.

As a self-contained disaster team, CDL drivers from the transportation and maintenance team move the equipment to the disaster site or into the communities we will serve.

They are ready to roll on a moment’s notice, preparing the way for the DRT staff to follow.

The emotional and spiritual team plays a critical role supporting survivors who have been affected by the catastrophe, as well as first responders and other volunteers. Their ability to comfort and nurture the mental and spiritual needs of survivors and first responders is critical and the essence of our service to our Lord and His children.

The community team members can multitask, managing PODS (points of distribution), providing clerical assistant to logistics, which includes the transitional pet shelter team, loving DRT members who will serve the dual purpose of saving the lives of pets and as their owners so when the need to evacuate may occur, both will have a safe haven.

The community team is the “glue” that holds us together.

November was busy, with the team members completing the necessary initial CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) and ICS (Incident Command System) training classes. More than 200 team members have completed the required Homeland Security classes. The specialized training and instruction will arm each DRT member with the knowledge of disaster response terminology, the reporting structure, and the chain of command

used by the Office of Emergency Management and the first responders on local, state and federal levels.

During the last two weeks, the city of Orlando and the Orlando Fire Department trained 110 CERT members. More than 16 hours of classroom and hands-on training were required to receive a certification and CERT backpack, which contains the necessary responder supplies: helmet, vest, gloves, flashlight, multipurpose tool and the all-important duct tape. Seminole County Emergency Management provided the backpacks and some of the training manuals. The Northland team was the largest team that the city of Orlando and the Orlando Fire Department trained.

They instructed Northlanders about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact our area and educated us in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

Classroom and hands-on training provided instruction on fire suppression, medical treatment, triage techniques, cribbing, and search and rescue.

As CERT graduates, we can serve others in our own communities or workplaces after an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. The instruction was provided using FEMA guidelines, but our learning experiences were enriched by our seasoned, experienced trainers, who provided personal, priceless insight gained through their dedication and relentless, selfless public service.

We cannot begin to thank them enough for taking time from their families and busy schedules to teach and mentor us.

In January 2010, advanced training will take the teams to the next level. Training, instruction, practice, drills and serving the community offer an opportunity to share the love of Christ and serve His children.

Interested in becoming a Northland DRT member? Our 2010 calendar will include ongoing CERT and ICS classes. Sign up now for one of the Disaster Response Teams, start to receive e-mail updates, and join in the activities at www.northlandchurch. net – just go to “Get Equipped” and “Join,” and look for upcoming training dates and community service opportunities.

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

History Center Park Homeless Outreach BY vanessa puleo Local Projects and Partnerships

E

very other Wednesday night, team leader David Mullen gathers supplies and fills his car. The team that joins him will bring clothes, toiletries, food and items for those less fortunate in downtown Orlando. David has a heart to serve and a heart for the homeless. This ministry has gone from just a few folks to a team of followers who act in the likeness of Christ with compassion. The ministry thrives as team members witness to the needy, give supplies to the hungry and reach out across the community.

Would you like to join in this amazing outreach?

All the information is on Northland’s website (www. northlandchurch.net). Join the December 9 service project, and stand along David and the other tender hearts as they reach out and give a hand to those in need during these times and beyond.

Also, David will be there Christmas Day to support those in need. Simply register today.

UPCOMING Serving Opportunities

To register, visit Northland’s website (www. northlandchurch.net) and select the “Serve Others” tab. Then choose “Serve Locally” to find project times, age requirements, locations and other information.

December 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Homeless Ministry Team December 11 . . . . . . . . Cookie drive for holiday baskets December 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Local SERVE Day December 12 . . . . . . . . . Build a Basket, delivery team December 17-18 . . . . . . . . . Christian HELP, small team December 21-22 . . . . . . . . . Christian HELP, small team December 23 . . . . . . . . Christian HELP, two small teams December 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Homeless Ministry Team December 26 . . . . . . . . . Pathways to Care, serve lunch December 26 . . . . . . . Give Kids the World, cook dinner January 9 . . . . . . Ronald McDonald House, serve dinner January 9 . . . . Coalition for the Homeless, serve dinner January 14 . . . . . . . . . Team leader meeting and dinner January 23 . . . . . . . . . . . Pathways to Care, serve lunch January 23 . . . . . . . . Citrus Harvest, registration/setup January 23 . . . . . . . . . Citrus Harvest, gleaning projects January 30 . . . . . . . . . Give Kids the World, serve dinner January 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LOCAL SERVE DAY WHAT IS A LOCAL SERVE DAY? That’s when we meet at Northland in parking lot 3 and distribute to one of the many projects in the community, or to help one of our local partners. It’s a great opportunity to get the whole family involved.

For questions or to make a project that fits your group, contact Vanessa Puleo (407-949-7156 or vanessa.puleo@ northlandchurch.net).

SERVE TEAM Distributed Journey Construction Mission to Georgia March 6-13

The Mission: The construction of a 12-bedroom retreat center at Breaking Free in Georgia.

Breaking Free is a comprehensive long-term residential program for men recovering from addictions.

informational meeting:

Sunday, December 20, 4:30 p.m. rooms 4213/15, Longwood site Key leaders from Breaking Free will speak about the program and the mission.

COOKIE DRIVE

Friday, December 11

Register at www.northlandchurch.net or call Vanessa Puleo (407-949-7156).

Build a Basket

Saturday, December 12 Register at www. northlandchurch.net or call

Vanessa Puleo (407-949-7156).

SERVE TEAM NEEDED

Help Christian HELP get ready for Christmas!

For details and to register, visit www.northlandchurch.net.

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

This year you have the opportunity to help a student go to Christmas Camp 2009. By sponsoring a seat, multiple seats or even a bus, you provide an opportunity for a student — or multiple students — to travel to SharpTop Cove Camp in Jasper, Georgia. Each year more than 150 high school students make the trek up to north Georgia to take a break from life and hear from God. Students make life-changing decisions over these four days, and many of them come back with a new or renewed passion to serve Jesus. We want to provide the opportunity to as many students as possible, and you can help!

WO = Northland at west oaks

CHRISTMAS CAMP ���� DECEMBER �� to JANUARY �

SEAT: ���� BUS: ��,��� ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: $270 if registration and $100 deposit are received by December 15 $310 if registration and $100 deposit are received between December 16 and 23 Pre-order your sweatshirt: $20 Your generosity can help make it possible for students to have a great experience.

If you are able, please sponsor one or more seats, or even a bus. Just make a check payable to Northland Church, and in the memo line, write "Christmas Camp Bus."

Pick up a green registration form from the Welcome Desk for details and to register. Details: Shaylynn Stoner (407-949-7194 or Shaylynn.stoner

@northlandchurch.net)

Middle & High School Students

Middle School Ministry

LW Servant Leadership Ministry

NO LUGRox THIS weekend (11/28)

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)

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)

No LUGRox December 26

LW LUGRox (Living Under Grace Rocks!)

Saturdays, December 5, 12 and 19, 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)

High School Ministry LW O2 — Outreach, Worship, Teaching and

Hangout Time NO O2 November 29 and December 27

Sundays, 6 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, The Rink. All 9th- through 12thgraders 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 (407949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net)

OV AXIS: High School Ministry

Sundays, 5 p.m., NOCC. Youth group environment with interactive activities and fun. Details: Erica Emler (407-6878570 or erica.emler@northlandchurch.net)

OV Dinner and Youth Group

OV AXIS: Christmas Party

Sunday, November 29, 5 to 7 p.m., NOCC. Bring a friend! Details: Erica Emler (407-687-8570 or erica.emler@northlandchurch.net)

OV Christmas Interaction

College Ministry

Sunday, December 13, 5 to 8 p.m., Browns’ home, Oviedo. Details: Erica Emler (407-687-8570 or erica.emler@ northlandchurch.net)

Sunday, December 6, 6 to 8 p.m., River Run Christian Church.

Join your friends from Mission Interact for food, great music, bouncers, crazy games and more! Details: Erica Emler (407687-8570 or erica.emler@northlandchurch.net)

WO one thing

Mondays, 6 to 8 p.m., Novak home. Details: Tommy Novak (352-989-7378 or tommy.novak@northlandchurch.net)

7

studentministries

CHRISTMAS CAMP SPONSORSHIP

OV = Northland at Oviedo

THIS WEEKEND!

(For students ageS 18-25)

Details: Mike Burke (mike.burke@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.

NEXT WEEKEND! Mentoring Ministry informational meeting For Single Moms of Middle School Sons

Saturday, December 5, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., room 4213, Northland at Longwood. Learn about connecting your son with a mentor, speak with the leaders and meet some men that are currently volunteering. Details and RSVP: Shaylynn Stoner (shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7194)

8

My name is: __________________________________________________

Hello, boys and girls.

Welcome to the Beehive!

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

Today we worship the mighty God, who gives us special places where we can be near Him and feel His presence.

When we want to be near God – that’s worship!

Presents and presence are two words that sound alike. Presents are gifts. Presence is the nearness of someone in a certain place. God’s presence is the best present of all!

Bzzz.

Bzzz.

Addie.

Who’s there?

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

I think it’s important to God because __________________________________________________

.

______________________________________________

Addie who?

Addievent.

What’s that?

Unscramble the letters to correctly spell the name of our special guest worship leader today.

K MRA RIRSHA

__ __ __ __

__ __ __ __ __ __

Answer: MARK HARRIS

The Burning Bush and the Bethlehem Star Exodus 3:1-6; Matthew 2:7-9 Moses led a flock of sheep to Mount Horeb, the mountain of God. There the angel of the Lord appeared to him from inside a burning bush.

Moses saw that the bush was on fire. But it didn’t burn up. So Moses thought, I’ll go over and see this strange sight. Why doesn’t the bush burn up? The Lord saw that Moses had gone over to look. So God spoke to him from inside the bush. He called out, “Moses! Moses!” Moses said, “Here I am, Lord!” Just as the burning bush helped Moses come near to God, the star over Bethlehem helped the wise men come near to God. Moses and the wise men looked for ways to be in God’s presence. God gives us ways to be in His presence, too!

Advent is the four weeks before Christmas.

Draw a picture of the star leading the wise men to baby Jesus in Bethlehem.

Let’s get ready!

9

Come serve in Children’s Ministries.

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

You will bee blessed!

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

r o f the we

u Serving in Children’s ol Church is where you’ll find

e Sh

V

e nte

k:

Draw a line guiding the bees to the star over baby Jesus in Bethlehem.

Make a family Advent wreath using greenery and four candles.

Light the first candle.

Think about the star that led the wise men to Jesus. How can you come closer to Jesus this week?

eila

Sheila Howes, as she has taught both third and fourth grades at our 11 a.m. service. Sheila is caring and outgoing, and loves teaching the children God’s Word. Thank you, Sheila, for your dedication to teaching the children who He is and what He has done each weekend in Children’s Church.

Howes

Hey there, why did you draw that?

Max Arnold in grade school drew a picture of David and Goliath.

THIS WEEK!

Search for and circle each word Paul wrote in Matthew 2:9: “The star they had seen when they were in the east went ahead of them. It finally stopped over the place where the child was.”

V C W H E R E A O H E E L P M H F I N A L L Y E W L T S T A R A A D I T E C E D S T O P P E D W I N V T H E Y H I T E H A D T E W E R E S E E N Word bank: THE, STAR, THEY, HAD, SEEN, WHEN, WERE, IN, EAST, WENT, AHEAD, OF, IT, FINALLY, STOPPED, OVER, PLACE, WHERE, CHILD, WAS

Join the children for a celebration of what they’ve learned this year in Children’s Church: who God is and what He has done!

Friday, December 4, 7 p.m.

Northland at Longwood Sanctuary FREE ADMISSION.

A brief reception will follow in the foyer.

Child care provided for infants through 3-year-olds.

Details and registration: Julie Meeke r (407-949-7153 or julie.meeker@northlandchurch.net)

equippingnews

10

What Is Advent?

By CONNIE RAINWATER Director of Content Development

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.

–John 1:14 (NIV)

A

dvent, the season beginning four Sundays prior to Christmas and ending Christmas Day, has been celebrated by the church for centuries. Because Christmas is on a different day from year to year, Advent may last anywhere from

ADVENTRESOURCES 22 to 28 days. The Council of Tours in 567 established the period of Advent as a time of fasting. The same council also proclaimed the 12 days from Christmas to Epiphany a sacred, festive season.

It is a season of both preparation and anticipation, of celebration and wonder. It is the already, but not yet. Christ has come, and yet not all things have come to completion. As we await His Second Coming, we put ourselves in the place of those who waited for His First Coming, thousands of years ago.

We prepare our hearts to receive His presence in a new way.

Advent began as a season of confession, a time for discipline and repentance in the confident expectation of Christ’s return. For believers now, it is a time to cultivate a renewed awareness of God’s actions — past, present and future — and His presence with us. During Advent, we read the prophecies of the Messiah’s coming as addressed to us — people who wait for the Second Coming.

The Advent Wreath

T

he Advent wreath has been a part of Advent celebrations for centuries in the church. It holds beautiful symbolism for believers. The wreath is typically made of evergreen, symbolizing eternal life. The wreath’s shape is symbolic of God’s eternal nature, as He has no beginning and no end.

The wreath typically has four purple candles and one white candle, the Christ candle.

The first candle is known as the hope candle. It symbolizes the confident expectation with which believers in ages past waited for the Messiah. But it also symbolizes the hope we have in Christ for eternal life, and our anticipation of His return.

The other three candles are most often seen as purple, though in some traditions, the third candle is rose. Each of these candles represents an aspect of the Advent season — love, joy and peace. The center candle, called the Christ candle, is white. It is to be lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. The liturgical colors for Advent are purple and deep blue, while the colors for Christmas are gold and white. An Advent wreath, with four candles and a Christ candle, also may be used as a symbol of Christ’s eternal love and light.

L

ooking for a way to make Advent more meaningful?

The following books are daily readers, designed to help you rediscover Christmas:

Immanuel: Praying the Names of God Through the Christmas Season,

by Ann Spangler Spangler offers six weeks of devotions focused on six key names of God, drawn from her bestselling books, to create a unique Christmas devotional that will transform this crazy, wonderful, stressful season into one of real peace and joy by recovering the gift of Advent.

On the Way to Bethlehem, by Hilary McDowell Advent can be more than a season of familiar contemplation and theological acceptance of Jesus’ nativity. This series of daily readings will create a richly imaginative and interactive narrative wherein you cast off emotional baggage, smell the hay, and hear the thoughts of fellow seekers in the stable, listen to a shepherd’s awe-filled story, and eventually encounter the Christ Child Himself.

Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus,

by Nancy Guthrie This Advent reader draws from the works and sermons of classic theologians such as Whitefield, Luther, Spurgeon and Augustine, as well as from leading contemporary writers such as John Piper, J. Ligon Duncan, Randy Alcorn and Francis Schaeffer.

A Simple Plan to Reach the World

H

as God been calling you to step up to a new level of personal ministry? Maybe it is time to begin to think of your own home as a ministry outpost.

Check out the Doing Church, Simply website. It's, well, simple.

Family Advent-ure Make this a meaningful Advent season by celebrating in new ways with your family. Make an Advent wreath (together!) for your home.

1. Gather evergreen branches, or use colored paper and cut out paper leaves.

2. Arrange the greenery in a circle on a table.

3. Place four candles in candleholders on the circle, and one in the center.

4. Choose a day and time for your family Advent candle lighting. Dinner is a great time.

5. Check this page each week for suggested Advent readings, songs, prayers and family discussion starters.

Week l

1. Have the family gather for the candle lighting.

2. Light the first Advent candle.

3. This candle represents “hope,” the hope of Christ to the world.

4. Read Luke 1:1-25 together, or read the story of Zechariah from your favorite Bible storybook 5. Talk about the things that you hope for this Christmas.

6. Pray together, thanking Jesus for the hope He gives us.

When you log in to the site, you are presented with 11 short videos, each with an accompanying personal study and additional resources: 1. The church and the kingdom 2. The ministry of the early church 3. Your home, a ministry outpost 4. A kingdom of servants 5. Inviting others into the family 6. When we gather 7. Sacraments and the church 8. Common Questions 9. The character of a spiritual leader 10. The habits of a spiritual leader 11. Expanding the kingdom

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

OV = Northland at Oviedo

principles. Child care is available. Details: Skye Engel (407-834-3158)

LW COPING WITH ADDICTIONS/CODEPENDENCY

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 MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY BELONG STUDY

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 a four-week Belong study (watch the Northland News for future dates).

• 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 Celebrate Recovery

Fridays, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. Gain freedom from life’s hurts, habits and hang-ups over dinner, fellowship and share groups, which include Newcomers 101, Men and Women’s Chemical Dependency, Women’s Co-Dependency, and Parents of Prodigals.

Details: Laurie Jean Harrington (lauriejean2@ bellsouth.net or mmannen@cfl.rr.com)

LW CONQUERING FEAR, ANGER, ANXIETY

Tuesdays, 7:15 p.m., room 4204. Conquer fear, anger and anxiety through biblical

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

dealing with unhealthy habits in the present or painful experiences from the past. Child care is available. Details: Laura Martin (352-205-0868 or lauramartin32778@gmail.com)

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

Coming together around a single activity or shared trait, these groups meet for specific events, ongoing study or ministry to the community.

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

LW AMEN (A MEETING OF MEN)

LW

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)

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

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, 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 Fridays, 7 to 9 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. A support group helping parents cope with kids in trouble, in jail, on drugs, etc., and with serious behavioral problems. Child care available. 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.

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

LW UNEMPLOYED MEN SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesdays, 8 to 9 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1112. Discuss job searching and tools available while supporting each other and strengthening our spiritual walk on this emotional journey. Details: David Keys (407256-5576 or davidalankeys@gmail.com)

MD Celebrate Recovery Local Chapter

Tuesdays, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Calvary Chapel of the Lakes, 351 Plaza Drive, Tavares. For those

11

WO = Northland at west oaks

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)

LW BUSINESSMEN’S FRIDAY LUNCH

LW BUDDY BREAK

Saturday, December 12, 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 25-39) Mondays, 7 to 8:15 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: Carissa Curran (commonground@northlandchurch.net or 407-221-1241)

LW Covering Care Blanket Ministry

Third Thursday of each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m.; or first Saturday of each month, 3 to 4:30 p.m., room 4217. For those who can knit or sew, this group makes blankets for local hospitals and people in need in the community. Details and donations: Nicole Roberts (407-699-8575)

LW Divine Reflection Art Group

Second Thursday of each month, through May, 7 to 9 p.m., 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 FAITH AND SCIENCE GROUP

Wednesday, December 2, room 4204. Discuss modern science discovery in light of God’s word.

Details: Kent Cofoid (kent.cofoid@gmail.com)

LW GOLF — links fellowship

• Friday, December 11, 11 a.m., Rock Springs Ridge Golf Club, cost $35 • Friday, December 18, 7:45 a.m., Alaqua Country Club, cost $43 • Saturday December 19, 7:45 a.m., Eastwood 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

Mentoring Ministry informational meeting for Single Moms of Middle School Sons Saturday, December 5, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., room 4213. Learn about connecting your son with a mentor, speak with the leaders and meet some men that are currently volunteering. Details and RSVP: Shaylynn Stoner (shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7194)

LW Moms4moms

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

• Once a month, Mondays, 9 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

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

Details: Lori Cooper (407-249-0435) • Walk through Bethlehem December 5, 4:45 p.m. for dinner, call for departure location. Enjoy Christmas carols and walk through a living interpretation of the city of Bethlehem as it once was when Christ was born. Dress appropriately as it is partially outside. If it’s cold feel free to drive your cars to this event. Details: Lori Cooper (407-249-0435)

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 softball

Join other men and women on this adult coed team or the men’s team to compete in local leagues. They love to go out and play softball and have fun and fellowship together. Details: www. nlsoftball.com or northlandsoftball@gmail.com

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 MEN’S BIBLE FELLOWSHIP Tuesdays, 6:30 to 7:45 a.m., rooms 2-3.

Motto: Men with a mission. Details: Richie

12

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

Kluesener (407-221-4517 or rk@goldinart. com) or Bill Chapman (352-434-4116 or bill. chapman@northlandchurch.net)

OV Building Your Marriage (Couples)

Sundays, 6 p.m., Cluxton home, Champman Lakes subdivision, Oviedo. Details: Brad Cluxton (bcluxton@gmail.com or 407-474-0034)

OV Building Your Marriage (Couples) Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m., Welday home, Oviedo.

Work together to have a stronger, more loving and vibrant relationship with your spouse. Details: Amanda Hartley (407-222-7374 or amanda. hartley@northlandchurch.net) 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

LW MEN’S PRAISE AND PRAYER

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

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

LW PRAYER GROUP

Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1116. 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)

BAPTISMS LW ADULT BAPTISMS

LW Third Verse

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)

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)

ADULT BIBLE STUDIES LW Alpha Course

- Is There More to Life than This?

Sundays, through December 13, 4 to 5:45 p.m., rooms 4206-7. This week’s topic: How can I be sure of my faith? Why and how do I Pray?.

Ask and discover answers to essential questions of life and get a practical introduction to the Christian faith. Registration $10 per individual or $15 for two! Child care by reservation.

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

LW 1 Peter

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

OV = Northland at Oviedo

Sundays, 9 a.m., room 4213. Led by Dr. Dan Lacich. Details: Jamila Millette (jamila. millette@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1832)

LW Philippians

Sundays, 10:45 a.m., room 4213, 15. 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)

MD Adult Bible Fellowship Sundays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., conference room. Join this ongoing Bible study on the Gospel of John. Child care is available. Details: Larry Martin (352-394-5870)

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

ADULTS LW Answers to Prayer

Sundays, 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. This is an ongoing class, join any time. Details: Mickey and Cindy Mallin (407-322-6101)

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 407-949-4002)

Sunday, December 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)

MD Tavares Home Study Group Mondays, 7 p.m., alternating between Bailey home and Martin home. Meet for prayer and to discuss Pastor Joel’s recent sermons.

Details: Laura Martin (352-394-5870 or lauramartin32778@gmail.com)

MEN’S BIBLE STUDIES

Facilitators are needed to work alongside the DivorceCare ministry. Learn to help those who are currently experiencing the pain of divorce find healing. Details: Elaine Harland (407-9494002 or elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net)

LW CHILD BAPTISMS

LW ISAIAH

LW LEARN TO SPEAK CHINESE

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, January 16, 7 p.m., rooms 4206-7. Child care is available upon request. Details: Diane Jones (407-9497188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net)

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)

OV

The Quest for Authentic Manhood Saturdays, 7:15 a.m., NOCC. Study focuses on a man’s core identity and helps men embrace a biblical definition of manhood. Details: Lawrence Wachter (407-430-2835 or lawrence. wachter@gmail.com)

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES 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 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 DIVORCECARE FACILITATORS TRAINING

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 Stepfamilies Class

Sundays, through December 13, 9 a.m., room 4210. Discover biblical methods and practical tools for nurturing stepfamilies and providing hope and skills for conquering the challenges of stepfamily life and interaction. Details and registration: Doug Hubbard (407-695-5100 or doughubbard@gmail.com)

OV Fireproof Your Marriage Mondays, 7 p.m., Wiest home, Oviedo.

Details: Paul and Pam Wiest (407-977-5295 or wiestpj@earthlink.net)

WO = Northland at west oaks

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: January 24 to February 14. Focus: Salvation and assurance.

Includes Communion instruction.

• STEP 2—THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: January 24 to February 28. 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: April 11 to May 23. Focus: To develop skills in exploring the Bible.

MEN 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, 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 Men’s Fraternity Group (Years 1, 2, 3) Tuesdays, 6:30 a.m., NOCC. Includes three one-year-long studies beginning with The Quest for Authentic Manhood, followed by Winning at Work and Home and ending with The Great Adventure. Studies provide men with an encouraging process that teaches them how to live lives of authentic manhood as modeled

by Jesus Christ and directed by the Word of God. Details: Jeremy Jobson (jeremy.jobson@ northlandchurch.net or 407-929-3053) WO MEN IN THE WORD Saturdays, 8 a.m., House Blend Cafe. Read through Frances Chan’s book Crazy Love. Details: Jerry Murphy (407-522-1672 or jerry.murphy@ ieee.org)

WOMEN 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 (available at Northland’s bookstore).

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)

LW Women’s Healing Ministry

Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 1111. 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,

Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

MD = Northland at Mount dora

and lies of secrecy which keep you in bondage.

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

OV Life’s Healing Choices

Mondays, 7 p.m., home of Laurie Jean Harrington. Offers freedom from hurts, hang-ups and habits through eight healing choices that promise true happiness and life transformation. Using the Beatitudes of Jesus as a foundation, this class was developed by Senior Pastor Rick Warren and Pastor John Baker of Saddleback Church. Details: Laurie Jean Harrington (lauriejean2@bellsouth.net or 407-977-6742)

OV What’s So Amazing About Grace

Fridays, 9:30 a.m., NOCC. An insightful exploration of grace, the most powerful force in the universe and our only hope for love and forgiveness. Details: Linda McGrath (lmcgr2033@ cfl.rr.com or 407-497-6540).

OV = Northland at Oviedo

Serve your local community

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

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)

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)

LW BLOOD DRIVE

Saturday, December 5, 4:30 to to 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, December 6, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Monday, December 7, 6:15 to 9:15 p.m. Give blood and save lives! Details: Susan Cholewa (susan.cholewa@ northlandchurch.net)

LW CELEBRATE RECOVERY MUSICIANS

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 communion servers

Communion servers are needed the first weekend of each month. Several are needed for the Christmas services. Training provided.

Details: Jan Stenstrom (407-937-0567 or communion@northlandchurch.net)

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 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)

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 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) 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)

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

LW COVERING CARE BLANKET

First Saturday of each month, 3 to 4:30 p.m. or third Thursday of each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 4217. Work on baby caps and blankets for distribution in local communities.

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

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 WOMEN TRANSITIONING FROM JAIL to Community Christian women are needed to befriend and support other Christian women who have decided to follow Christ and start a new life. Various opportunities to minister are available. Details: Linda Moedinger (jhvolunteer@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 (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)

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WO = Northland at west oaks

for the most current info on resources. Details: HSN (407-893-0133 or www.hsncfl.org) READERS MINISTRY Tuesdays, 1 to 3 p.m., Goldsboro Elementary School in Sanford. Everyone from high school students to senior citizens is invited to read to kindergarteners and first-graders. Come alone or with friends; experience is not necessary. Additional opportunities through this multigenerational ministry – Nanas, Papas and Reading Buddies – include tutoring Goldsboro’s second- and third-graders. Details: Elaine Gritter (egritter@bellsouth.net or 407327-1474) or Candy Guernsey (cwgrfg@aol.com or 407-323-9433)

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)

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

Details: www.nearhim.com

women

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) 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.

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

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) 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

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Lw = Northland at LONGWOOD

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 Sharing Center, Fairmont Plaza, 600 N. Highway 1792, Longwood (407-260-9155).

LW

AUTOMOBILE NEEDED by Northland’s Service Department to provide transportation for visiting guests and missionaries.

Details: Sarah Mattingly (sarah.mattingly@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7170)

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)

LW Nonperishable food items can be placed into the designated wooden boxes in the lobby of the Worship Center and in the Student Ministries and Care Center. Details: Vanessa Puleo (407-949-7156 or vanessa. puleo@northlandchurch.net)

MD = Northland at Mount dora

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)

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) 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)

Looking for local job listings? You can find them at northlandchurch.net/blogs.

By ROBERT ANDRESCIK Director of Public Relations

S

omething was cooking this week in Longwood, as more than 85 volunteers prepared turkey with all the fixings for 600 of their fellow Central Floridians ... many of whom might go hungry otherwise.

The church held its first-ever “Harvest Meal” on Monday, November 23—a few days before Thanksgiving. The word went out to many organizations, homeless camps and families in need throughout the community, and hundreds turned out as a result.

“We wanted to show the love of Christ to those who are hurting during this holiday season,” explains Gretchen Kerr, Northland’s director of Life Crossroads. “We hope our guests felt loved and cared for, and that a sense of hope was restored.”

Guests were truly thankful for how God had provided that day, and those who served were thankful for the opportunity to do so.

In one corner, an elderly couple sat close together, slowly enjoying their turkey with all the fixings. In another corner, a little girl gobbled down a mountain of mashed potatoes that probably weighed as much as she did, as her mother and siblings looked on grinning from ear to ear.

According to the Department of Children and Families, in 2009, nearly 58,000 people in the state of Florida are homeless on a daily basis. Many more are struggling to make ends meet in this tough economy.

Spearheading the Harvest Meal was Northland’s Disaster Response Team, which served all guests in just 90 minutes. It was an opportunity to care for people in need, and to sharpen their disaster response skills.

More than 500 Northlanders have been trained to assist during local and national emergencies— everything from providing medical care and food distribution to setting up temporary pet shelters.

Two semi-trailer units were recently donated to the church: a Mobile Medical Response Unit, and a Mobile Kitchen Unit that is capable of serving 30,000 meals per day, which was used at the Harvest Meal.

Northland’s Disaster Response Team was initiated after Hurricane Katrina and was mobilized in February 2007, when some of the deadliest tornadoes in Florida’s history swept through the state. Learn more about how you can be involved in this vital ministry on page 6.

Northland is thankful for all of the volunteers who made last week’s Harvest Meal possible.

You are a blessing!

FINANCIAL REPORT

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As of NOVEMBER 23, 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 $1,900,424 $11,228,613

Received $205,230 $1,776,279 $10,459,209 Surplus / (Deficit) ($32,323) ($124,145) ($769,404) *

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

BUILDING FUND

This Week This Quarter This Year

Need $35,298 $282,384 $1,733,691

Received $21,450 $200,741 $1,395,943 Surplus / (Deficit) ($13,848) ($81,643) ($337,748) LOAN BALANCE is currently $19,527,500 ...............................................................................................................

ATTENDANCE for weekend of November 21 to 23, 2009 Northland at Longwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,838 Northland at Mount Dora . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216 Northland at Oviedo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306 Northland at West Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Northland Webstream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,840 at 1,014 sites Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8,305 at 1,018 sites

WO = Northland at west oaks

A Hunger to Serve

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

OV = Northland at Oviedo

Congratulations

Rich and Jana Haussmann!

They celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, November 17.

Rich and Jana are Northland’s Financial Peace University coordinators.

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

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 Mike Grindstaff, Small Group and Bible Study Connections Lay Leader . . . . . . . . . 917-716-1362 or mgrindstaff@topps.com Josh Smith, Set Up/Tear down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-739-8602 JoshuaMSmith1@yahoo.com 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

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 Laura Martin, Celebrate Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . 352-205-0868 lauramartin32778@gmail.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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1747 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 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: Dr. Joel C. Hunter, Senior Pastor

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

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

THIS WEEKEND’S MESSAGE:

The Gift of Presence — Advent Week 1 The Un-Burning Bush; The Moving Star Scripture focus:

Exodus 3:1-6; Matthew 2:7-9 (NASB)

Worship focus:

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Exodus 3:1-6

Worship Christ today as the mighty God. His power is infinite. Nothing is too hard for Him.

Now Moses was pasturing the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian; and he led the flock to the west side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. The angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush; and he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, yet the bush was not consumed. So Moses said, “I must turn aside now and see this marvelous sight, why the bush is not burned up.” When the LORD saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.”

Then He said, “Do not come near here; remove your sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” He said also, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Then Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. Matthew 2:7-9

Then Herod secretly called the magi and determined from them the exact time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him.” After hearing the king, they went their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was.

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

Heavenly Father, we worship You during this Advent season as our mighty God. Since ancient times, no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides You, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him. We wait for You … as we celebrate the Word that became flesh.

We wait for You … as Your Kingdom comes on earth as it is in Heaven.

We wait for you … for Your final return, when we will be with You in Heaven forever.

Until then, expand our vision of Your nature, expand our understanding of Your grace, and let us know the power of Your presence. Don’t let us remember You as a baby in a manger. Reveal Yourself again to us, as You act on our behalf and we act on Yours, everywhere, every day.

NEXT WEEKEND: Dr. Joel C. Hunter | THE GIFT OF PRESENCE — ADVENT week 2 | The Ark of the Covenant; The Gifts of the Magi | Exodus 25:21-22; Matthew 2:10-11

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!