Worship Guide-Respond 11, 2014

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED MARCH 15-17, 2014

What’s Current Here’s a sampling of the many upcoming opportunities to respond to God:

UNDERSTANDING POVERTY AND EMPOWERING OTHERS Did you know … … 46.5 million Americans live in poverty?

Handouts don’t help. Come and learn what does.

Two times to choose from: Saturday, April 5 and Thursday, April 10.

Both classes will be held in the Fellowship Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with one hour for lunch.

Register at northlandchurch.net.

BAPTISM OPPORTUNITY

Come to the Water If you haven’t taken this important step as a disciple of Jesus Christ, now is the time!

Be baptized by a Northland minister in a heated pool. You can participate individually or as a family.

Sunday, April 13, 2 p.m. at the Watkins’ home.

Sign up at northlandchurch.net!

NEW CHILDREN’S CHECK-IN SYSTEM Take Two Minutes and Register We’re upgrading our children’s check-in system. As part of the changeover, we need all families to register their kids with the new system. If you have kids in Northland’s Children’s Ministries, would you please take two minutes and register them now?

We plan to roll out the new check-in system this April, but we’re asking parents to register ASAP so we can thoroughly test the system. When it comes to your kids, we never take chances. Thank you!

Register in The Hub or at northlandchurch.net/checkin.

New to Northland?

Tell us a little about yourself! Just drop this card in an offering box or stop by The Hub or an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we want to get to know you …

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.

Name(s)_____________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________

WELCOME! Let’s worship God together!

The mission of Northland, A Church Distributed is to Respond to God for the Benefit of Others.

Our Vision is to see people coming to Christ and to be transformed together as we link locally and globally to worship and serve everywhere, every day. Join us!

CHECK OUT THE HUB

The Public Safety Ministry This weekend, please stop by The Hub and learn about a group that many Northlanders don’t even know exists … until it is needed: The Public Safety Ministry. This ministry is comprised of three separate, distinct teams: • First Responders • Parking Team • Security If you have a question or feel the slightest prompting of the Holy Spirit to join one of these teams, stop by The Hub and see us.

Email_________________________________________________________________________________________

Participate & Connect:

Which site are you attending? [ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] Other_____________________________________

northlandchurch.net

Phone_______________________________________________________________________________________

Our website has hundreds of archived worship services, stories about the great work God is doing and ways for YOU to Be the Church Everywhere, Every Day.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Address______________________________________________________________________________________

I am [ ] a child [ ] a middle school student [ ] a high school student [ ] an adult. [ ] I am a new believer. I recently trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. [ ] I would like to know more about how to get connected.

Get “What’s Current”: northlandchurch.net/resources/newsletter facebook.com/northlandchurch twitter.com/northlandchurch

Visit an Info Kiosk in the foyer or The Hub.

Call 407-949-4000.

530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750

Tithes & Offerings Electronic giving is available at the kiosks in the lobby, online at generous.northlandchurch.net or for your mobile at northlandchurch.net/mobilegive. Offering envelopes are at all giving boxes. Contact Twila Roberts at 407-949-4000 with questions.

generous.northlandchurch.net

Financial Report — March 4 to 10, 2014 This Week

This Year to Date

Need. . . . . . . . . . 235,424 Need. . . . . . . . . 2,354,240 Received. . . . . . . 218,985 Received. . . . . . 2,189,495 Difference. . . . . . (16,440) Difference. . . . . . (164,745)

3/15-17/2014

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED MARCH 15-17, 2014

What’s Current Here’s a sampling of the many upcoming opportunities to respond to God:

UNDERSTANDING POVERTY AND EMPOWERING OTHERS

NEW CHILDREN’S CHECK-IN SYSTEM

EASTER PARTIES

Did you know …

Sign Up for an Easter Party!

… 46.5 million Americans live in poverty?

Handouts don’t help. Come and learn what does.

Come out and celebrate the Easter season with Northlanders who live near you. Enjoy food, fun and fellowship as you celebrate the resurrection of our Lord, and get to know your Northland neighbors. Hosts from all over Central Florida are ready to open their homes and connect with you!

Two times to choose from: Saturday, April 5 and Thursday, April 10.

Both classes will be held in the Fellowship Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with one hour for lunch.

To learn more and to sign up for a party in your area, drop by The Hub after service or during the week, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Register at northlandchurch.net.

Sign up at northlandchurch.net/neighbors.

Take Two Minutes and Register We’re upgrading our children’s check-in system. As part of the changeover, we need all families to register their kids with the new system. If you have kids in Northland’s Children’s Ministries, would you please take two minutes and register them now?

We plan to roll out the new check-in system this April, but we’re asking parents to register ASAP so we can thoroughly test the system. When it comes to your kids, we never take chances. Thank you!

Register in The Hub or at northlandchurch.net/checkin.

New to Northland?

Tell us a little about yourself! Just drop this card in an offering box or stop by The Hub or an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we want to get to know you …

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.

Name(s)_____________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________

WELCOME! Let’s worship God together!

The mission of Northland, A Church Distributed is to Respond to God for the Benefit of Others.

Our Vision is to see people coming to Christ and to be transformed together as we link locally and globally to worship and serve everywhere, every day. Join us!

CHECK OUT THE HUB

The Public Safety Ministry This weekend, please stop by The Hub and learn about a group that many Northlanders don’t even know exists … until it is needed: The Public Safety Ministry. This ministry is comprised of three separate, distinct teams: • First Responders • Parking Team • Security If you have a question or feel the slightest prompting of the Holy Spirit to join one of these teams, stop by The Hub and see us.

Email_________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Our website has hundreds of archived worship services, stories about the great work God is doing and ways for YOU to Be the Church Everywhere, Every Day.

Phone_______________________________________________________________________________________

northlandchurch.net

Which site are you attending? [ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] Other_____________________________________

Participate & Connect:

Address______________________________________________________________________________________

I am [ ] a child [ ] a middle school student [ ] a high school student [ ] an adult. [ ] I am a new believer. I recently trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. [ ] I would like to know more about how to get connected.

3/15-17/2014

Get “What’s Current”: northlandchurch.net/resources/newsletter facebook.com/northlandchurch twitter.com/northlandchurch

Visit an Info Kiosk in the foyer or The Hub.

Call 407-949-4000.

530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750

Tithes & Offerings Electronic giving is available at the kiosks in the lobby, online at generous.northlandchurch.net or for your mobile at northlandchurch.net/mobilegive. Offering envelopes are at all giving boxes. Contact Twila Roberts at 407-949-4000 with questions.

Financial Report — March 4 to 10, 2014

generous.northlandchurch.net

Difference. . . . . . (16,440) Difference. . . . . . (164,745)

This Week

This Year to Date

Need. . . . . . . . . . 235,424 Need. . . . . . . . . 2,354,240 Received. . . . . . . 218,985 Received. . . . . . 2,189,495

A MESSAGE FROM PASTOR DAN LACICH (Read about Pastor Dan at northlandchurch.net/team/dr_dan_lacich.)

SKEPTICAL PEOPLE, WELCOME AND RESPECTED

Dr. Sam Certo Our elders have asked Dr. Sam Certo to begin serving on Northland’s governing team. Our bylaws call for his name to be presented to the congregation for affirmation. If you would like to know more about Sam, his bio and contact information can be found on our website at northlandchurch.net/team/sam_certo. If you have any input about Dr. Certo serving as one of our governing elders, please contact any of our current team members. Contact information is also on our website at northlandchurch.net/team or the back page of the Respond newspaper.

John 1:43-50 (ESV)

The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”

Worship Focus Worship God today as the One who pursues us.

If you are coming to Him, it is because He has been drawing you.

If you belong to Him, it is because He sought you and found you.

Notes

Prayer

Let Us Know!

Everlasting God, in whom we live and move and have our being: You have made us for yourself, so that our hearts are restless until they rest in you.

Give us purity of heart and strength of purpose, that no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing your will, no weakness keep us from doing it; that in your light we may see light clearly, and in your service find perfect freedom through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

— The Worship Sourcebook

How can we help? Need to update your contact information, or want more information about a particular ministry or opportunity? Let us know — just drop this card in an offering box, or stop by The Hub or an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out!

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.

Name(s) ________________________________________________________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________________

Upcoming Weeks: Week 12: March 22-24 SERMON: The Gospel of John — Faith and Life: Evangelism in Close Relationships, with Pastor Joel C. Hunter Week 13: March 29-31 SERMON: The Gospel of John — Faith and Life: More Than Just a Miracle, with Pastor Jeff Bell

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone __________________________________________________________________________________________ [ ] The above is an update.

I am [ ] a child [ ] a middle school student [ ] a high school student [ ] an adult.

Prayer request: _ _______________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________

I’d like more information about: ____________________________________________________________ [ ] I am a new believer. I recently trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED MARCH 15-17, 2014

What’s Current Here’s a sampling of the many upcoming opportunities to respond to God:

UNDERSTANDING POVERTY AND EMPOWERING OTHERS

BAPTISM OPPORTUNITY

Did you know …

Come to the Water

… 46.5 million Americans live in poverty?

Handouts don’t help. Come and learn what does.

If you haven’t taken this important step as a disciple of Jesus Christ, now is the time!

Be baptized by a Northland minister in a heated pool. You can participate individually or as a family.

Two times to choose from: Saturday, April 5 and Thursday, April 10.

Both classes will be held in the Fellowship Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with one hour for lunch.

Sunday, April 13, 2 p.m. at the Watkins’ home.

Sign up at northlandchurch.net!

Register at northlandchurch.net.

NEW CHILDREN’S CHECK-IN SYSTEM Take Two Minutes and Register We’re upgrading our children’s check-in system. As part of the changeover, we need all families to register their kids with the new system. If you have kids in Northland’s Children’s Ministries, would you please take two minutes and register them now?

We plan to roll out the new check-in system this April, but we’re asking parents to register ASAP so we can thoroughly test the system. When it comes to your kids, we never take chances. Thank you!

Register in The Hub or at northlandchurch.net/checkin.

New to Northland?

Tell us a little about yourself! Just drop this card in an offering box or stop by The Hub or an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we want to get to know you …

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.

Name(s)_____________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________

WELCOME! Let’s worship God together!

The mission of Northland, A Church Distributed is to Respond to God for the Benefit of Others.

Our Vision is to see people coming to Christ and to be transformed together as we link locally and globally to worship and serve everywhere, every day. Join us!

CHECK OUT THE HUB

The Public Safety Ministry This weekend, please stop by The Hub and learn about a group that many Northlanders don’t even know exists … until it is needed: The Public Safety Ministry. This ministry is comprised of three separate, distinct teams: • First Responders • Parking Team • Security If you have a question or feel the slightest prompting of the Holy Spirit to join one of these teams, stop by The Hub and see us.

Email_________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Our website has hundreds of archived worship services, stories about the great work God is doing and ways for YOU to Be the Church Everywhere, Every Day.

Phone_______________________________________________________________________________________

northlandchurch.net

Which site are you attending? [ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] Other_____________________________________

Participate & Connect:

Address______________________________________________________________________________________

I am [ ] a child [ ] a middle school student [ ] a high school student [ ] an adult. [ ] I am a new believer. I recently trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. [ ] I would like to know more about how to get connected.

3/15-17/2014

Get “What’s Current”: northlandchurch.net/resources/newsletter facebook.com/northlandchurch twitter.com/northlandchurch

Visit an Info Kiosk in the foyer or The Hub.

Call 407-949-4000.

530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750

Tithes & Offerings Electronic giving is available at the kiosks in the lobby, online at generous.northlandchurch.net or for your mobile at northlandchurch.net/mobilegive. Offering envelopes are at all giving boxes. Contact Twila Roberts at 407-949-4000 with questions.

Financial Report — March 4 to 10, 2014

generous.northlandchurch.net

Difference. . . . . . (16,440) Difference. . . . . . (164,745)

This Week

This Year to Date

Need. . . . . . . . . . 235,424 Need. . . . . . . . . 2,354,240 Received. . . . . . . 218,985 Received. . . . . . 2,189,495

MARCH 2014

www.northlandchurch.net

BE THE CHURCH EVERYWHERE, EVERY DAY

DISTRIBUTED JOURNEYS 2014 Where is God calling you to GO this year? A life-changing experience awaits.

Check out page 4, and stop by The Hub this month. OR visit somedayistoday.org.

CHECK OUT THE HUB

BAPTISM OPPORTUNITY

Looking to get connected?

Need more information?

Want some coffee and conversation?

COME TO THE WATER! If you haven’t taken this important step as a disciple of Jesus Christ, now is the time!

The Hub is a good place to start!

Find more info on page 8. OR visit northlandchurch.net/baptism.

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About Northland, A Church Distributed WHAT WE BELIEVE The Bible

— We believe the Scripture, both Old and New Testaments, is verbally inspired of God, is inerrant in the original writings, and is the Christian’s final authority in faith and conduct. (2 Timothy 3:16)

God

— The Trinity — We believe in one God, Creator of all things, infinitely perfect and eternally existing in three persons – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Genesis 1:26; Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 6:8) Jesus Christ — We believe by miracle of the virgin birth that the Lord Jesus Christ, eternal Son of God, became man without ceasing to be God in order to reveal God and to redeem man. He is the substitutionary sacrifice for our sins and arose bodily from the dead for our justification. He is now exalted at the right hand of God, Head of the Church and Lord of the individual believer, fulfilling His ministry as our Great High Priest and Advocate. (Matthew 1:18-23; John 1:1-3) Holy Spirit — We believe that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. He convicts the world of sin, regenerates and converts sinners, and baptizes them into the church, which is the body of Christ. We believe that He indwells, guides, instructs and empowers the believer for godly living and service, and that He seals and keeps him until the Lord comes. We believe that He bestows spiritual gifts upon each one. We believe that the believer has received one or more spiritual gifts so that he might exercise them for the strengthening and outreach of the body of Christ. The practice of any gift in any gathered body shall be in keeping with the Scripture. (John 14:16-17; Ephesians 4:30; 1 Corinthians 12:7)

The Means of Salvation

— We believe that salvation from the guilt and condemnation of sin is possible only as the gift of God’s grace. It cannot be gained by good resolutions, sincere efforts, or submission to the rules, regulations or ordinances of any church, but is freely bestowed on all who put their faith in Christ and trust in the work that Christ accomplished on the cross of Calvary. All who so trust the Savior pass from death unto life, and are forgiven of their sins, accepted by the Father, and born into His family by the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God. (John 5:24; Ephesians 1:67; 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:23)

Security, Assurance and Responsibility

— We believe that all the saved, those in whom God has accomplished His transforming work of grace, are kept by His power and are thus secure in Christ forever. It is their privilege to rejoice in the assurance of their salvation. However, this assurance must not be the occasion for sin, for God in His holiness cannot tolerate persistent sin in His children, and in infinite love He corrects them. True faith in Christ is expressed by a fruitful, God-pleasing life. (John 10:2729; Romans 8:19-39; 1 John 5:13; Hebrews 12:6; Matthew 7:20; James 2:20)

Man

— We believe that man was created in the image of God, but that he sinned, incurring not only physical death, but also spiritual death, which is separation from God and which is inherited by every member of Adam’s race. We believe that man is subject to the power of the devil and has within himself no possible means of recovery or salvation.

(Genesis 1:26; 1 John 1:8-10; Romans 6:23)

OUR PURPOSE: WHY WE ARE HERE From its inception in 1972, Northland has been unwavering in its purpose: To bring people to maturity in Christ.

OUR VISION: WHAT WE SEE

A vision is a clear mental picture of a preferable future. It sees the future through the eyes of faith.

It shares the perspective of the biblical writer when he wrote the following words: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1, NASB).

Northland’s vision is to see people coming to Christ, and to be transformed together as we link locally and globally to worship and serve everywhere, every day.

OUR MISSION: WHAT WE DO

At Northland, we believe God’s call to us as a body of believers is to respond to Him for the benefit of others. There are countless ways that one can respond to God’s grace and goodness.

We have identified the following ways that we, as a church, regularly want to respond together: Worship God — John 4:21 Glorify God for who He is and what He has done.

Read the Bible — Jeremiah 1:12 Study God’s message to you often.

Share your story — 1 Peter 3:15 Tell others what God is doing in your life.

Be in community — John 13:35 Foster environments for relationship.

Pray — 1 Peter 3:12 Engage in conversation with God. Serve others — Matthew 25:40 Meet the needs of the people around you.

Live generously — Matthew 6:21 Give what God’s given you.

We believe that as we respond to God together we will be transformed into the image of Christ.

LONGWOOD WORSHIP TIMES Saturdays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 p.m.

Live Concurrent Worship Northland at Oviedo worships with us concurrently at the 9 and 11 a.m. worship times.

Sundays . . . . . 9 (hi)(sp), 11 a.m.(sp); 5 p.m.

Mondays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 p.m. (hi) Hearing-impaired interpretation available (sp) Spanish interpretation available

NOT LOCAL? Join us for LIVE online worship at

northlandchurch.net

¿Habla español?

Traducción simultánea al español en nuestra sede en Longwood y en linea durante los servicios de adoracion los domingos a las 9 y 11 a.m.!

during any of our worship times!

The Church

— We believe that the true church is composed of all who, through saving faith in Jesus Christ, have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit, that those who are members of the true church will be eligible for membership in the local church. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are to be observed by the church during the present age. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are acts of obedience to the Lord. Participation in them, though, is not to be regarded in any sense as a means of salvation. (Acts 2)

The Christian’s Walk

— We believe that we are called with a holy calling to walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, and so to live in the power of the indwelling Spirit of God. The flesh (our natural desire), which in this life is never fully eradicated, must be kept by the Spirit (through our walk of faith), constantly in subjection to Christ, or it will surely manifest its presence in our lives, to the dishonor of our Lord. (Ephesians 2:10; Galatians 5:16)

The Eternal State

— We believe that the souls of those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation do, at death, immediately pass into His presence and there remain in conscious bliss until the resurrection of the body at His coming for the church, when soul and glorified body, reunited, will be associated with Him forever in glory.

We believe that unbelievers will be punished with everlasting separation from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His power. (John 3:15-16; Hebrews 9:28; Matthew 25:41-46)

Find out more at northlandchurch.net/about.

facebook.com/northlandchurch

twitter.com/northlandchurch

NEW TO NORTHLAND? Do you have questions … about God, Northland or anything else?

Look for this icon above our INFO KIOSKS located throughout the foyer during worship times!

A host will be there to connect with you.

Or visit northlandchurch.net/new.

3

Sports Ministries Touch Down at Northland Northland’s middle school minister, Jeremy Penn, can’t kick a field goal from the 50-yard line. But he’s helping move the church’s Sports Ministries down the field … BIG time. Go, Jeremy!

RESPOND: So, we hear you just wrapped up a season of flag football. Any “Bronco blowouts” along the way?

RESPOND: Seen anything from the sidelines that really encourages you?

JEREMY: Ha! Not really … although I did run it in a few times — not that I’m bragging.

JEREMY: Encouraging and equipping families to live out Deuteronomy 6 is a major focus in the Student Ministries department. There is a clear call placed on the lives of parents and older generations to disciple kids. The sports ministries have been an avenue for this to take place. This last season, we witnessed a dad bring his son with him every week to play football, but it was more than simply throwing a ball around. We provided the time and space for this dad to invest in the life of his kid. This father and son were able to experience life together, grow in their relationship and understanding of one another, and the son was able to see Christ modeled by his father. Witnessing this happen week in and week out is what brings me encouragement.

Seriously, though … we had a lot of fun, built new relationships, and a unique community was formed.

RESPOND: Sounds fun! We’re guessing there’s a higher purpose behind the X’s and O’s?

JEREMY: Yup. The goal of the Sports Ministries is to create an environment of intergenerational interaction and mentorship. Sports is the avenue to help make that happen. Through various sports and competitions, adults and students share life experiences together. The ministry is completely relational and very informal, which gives it a unique feel. Ministry happens naturally in this setting, and this makes it highly effective.

RESPOND: So is this just a guy thing? Or can ladies play too?

JEREMY: They can and DO play! Honestly, they give the men a run for their money. As long as you’re at least 13 years old, you can play.

Moms, dads, college kids, teens are equally represented each week. It’s a great mix of people and skill levels.

RESPOND: Are Cowboys fans welcome?

JEREMY: The Bible teaches us to love one another, so we overlook that one.

RESPOND: Rumor has it that we’ll have an actual playing field soon! True?

JEREMY: Yes, indeed! This will be a space that the entire church can use for connection, fellowship and outreach.

We’re planning to have soccer goals, barbecue stations and a picnic area. It’s going to be great.

RESPOND: Where will the new field be located?

FUTURE PLAYING FIELD

JEREMY: If you’re good with directions, it’s located near the northwest corner of the church’s property. If you’re like me, and you rely on your iPhone for directions … when you’re facing the front of the church, it’s toward the back and to the left, behind the workshop. We’re hoping to have the field seeded and ready for play sometime this spring.

RESPOND: Sounds fun! What’s next, and when?

JEREMY: The sports ministries run in a cycle of eight-week “seasons,” in which we focus on one sport. The various seasons include flag football, indoor soccer, ultimate Frisbee, kickball and more. We typically meet on Thursdays at The Rink from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

We just started indoor soccer, which has had a great turnout.

Indoor soccer is fast-paced and high-scoring, and can be picked up even by a novice to the beautiful game.

RESPOND: Where do we sign up?

JEREMY: Easy. Go to northlandchurch.net/sports.

RESPOND: Thanks! Is “Tebowing” allowed?

JEREMY: Sure. And we promise not to trade anyone to the Jets.

4

somedayistoday.net

Go on a DISTRIBUTED JOURNEY!

SERVE GLOBALLY

Apply today.

Browse short-term trips and apply at somedayistoday.net.

A Hunger to Serve

High School Trip to Teach Students to Understand, Serve Homeless, Hungry

BY RICK AND LUCEE PRICE, TEAM LEADERS

T

he homeless and hungry community lives almost everywhere we travel locally and globally. Most of us don’t understand how to communicate with the homeless or the hungry people on the streets, and because of that, fear and confusion build.

Northland is partnering with Youth Service Opportunities Project (YSOP.org) from June 8 through 14 to bring a team of high school students to Washington, D.C., to take part in a YSOP work camp week. During that week, your high school student will learn to better understand and serve the homeless and the hungry in Washington, D.C. This work camp experience may include these types of opportunities: serving in soup kitchens and food pantries, bringing food to handout centers, and helping to facilitate recreational activities with formerly homeless children. Our favorite evening is when all the teams for that work camp week prepare dinner and decorate cupcakes and tables for an evening of playing games with the homeless and hungry who may visit. Usually there are 30 to 40 people, and our teams serve them dinner and drinks. Being able to sit at a table and eat dinner and play games with someone builds relationship and goes a long way toward dispelling fears on both sides.

YSOP provides all the training, and at the end of each day, it conducts a reflection time and provides training for the next day. Each work camp, YSOP has a formerly homeless person come in and speak to help others see things from his or her point of view: where the person began

his or her homeless journey, how he or she came through it, and how the person is successful on the other side. Teams are encouraged to ask questions and to be honest so true learning can take place.

At the beginning of the week, we are all asked why we came and what we hope to glean from the week. Then we answer those questions again at the end of the week. The perception change and deeper compassion are evident to all of us as we realize anew that all people, even those living on the streets, are made in the image of God. Here’s a glimpse into what happens during the week.

Students are given their schedule for the week, which includes group and individual devotion times, cooking and cleaning tasks, and what I like to call their “Where are we going?” schedule. A general schedule looks like this (but may change, depending on the work camp schedule we receive when we arrive): 7:30 a.m.: Be ready for the day and downstairs in the hostel kitchen to prepare lunches for the day.

8 a.m.: Eat a simple breakfast; everyone cleans up after himself or herself.

8:30 a.m.: Leave for the work camp area. (The “Where are we going?” group for the day is in charge of following directions to get us where we need to be. Part of this trip is the training of students so they can learn to navigate a big city like D.C. The chaperones know exactly how to get from point A to B, so no worries.)

9 a.m.-3 p.m.: Take part in work camp projects.

4-6 p.m.: We will decide each day if we want to sightsee, play games together or just rest our feet in the hostel common area.

6 p.m.: Three students will prepare dinner for the group, and then three students will clean up after the group.

(These groups rotate all week.)

7:30 p.m.: Two rotating groups of students will conduct devotions for the group.

8:30-10 p.m.: Enjoy free time in the common area (with chaperones).

10 p.m.: Start quiet time in the bunk rooms until the morning.

True change can only take place when understanding and compassion meet in a heart willing to take action. Our prayer is that your student will come back with fresh eyes and minds, ready to make a positive change in their local community. Our motto: “Serving can be who you are, not just what you do.”

Sightseeing in the rain.

An evening of playing games with the homeless and hungry who visit.

Preparing lunches for the day.

northlandchurch.net/serve

SERVE LOCALLY When Helping Hurts Northland, Partners Work to Impact Homelessness, Poverty

A

nyone who has served among people in need for any length of time will recognize this progression:

• Give once, and you elicit appreciation.

• Give twice, and you create anticipation.

• Give three times, and you create expectation.

• Give four times, and it becomes entitlement.

• Give five times, and you establish dependency.

• Become a part of the Seminole County Community Conversation on Homelessness.

• Review one of the recommended books on poverty that can be found in the Northland Bookstore.

For information on any of the above events or activities, contact Maria Penzes at maria.penzes@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0554.

According to Brian Fikkert, who wrote “When Helping Hurts” with Steve Corbett, poverty isn’t just a lack of material things; it’s rooted in broken relationships with God, self, others and the rest of creation. While the symptoms of material poverty – a lack of – DR. JOEL C. HUNTER food, clothing or shelter – look very similar, different types of poverty require very different forms of poverty alleviation.

Recommended Reading on Poverty While one-way giving may seem like the “Christian” • “Toxic Charity,” by Robert Lupton thing to do, it can undermine the very relationship a helper • “When Helping Hurts,” by Steve is attempting to build, according to Robert Lupton, author Corbett and Brian Fikkert of “Toxic Charity.” To the extent a person is enabled to • “A Framework for Understanding participate in the systems intended to serve him or her, the Poverty,” by Ruby Payne person’s self-worth is enhanced.

• “Bridges out of Poverty,” by Ruby Payne We come into contact with “people in need” every day in all walks of our lives. There isn’t a magic formula or fix that we FAQs can do in our own strength, unfortunately. Many Christians What is the content of the two classes? don’t recognize by providing a handout to those who are Understanding Poverty is an overview of the culture of poverty, capable of helping themselves, churches and ministries giving people an understanding of the issues specific to contribute to the materially poor’s sense of shame and people who have experienced a loss of security or who are undermine their capacity to work. underserved. Serving to Empower gives an understanding Many of these situations call for programs or systems of the relationship of the “helper” to those being helped and of help, which we call “rehabilitation” or “development.” In discusses the importance of understanding how giving can rehabilitation, people participate in returning their lives to presometimes hurt those being served. This class will explore how crisis conditions, contributing to improving their own situation. to use compassion to be helpful and not hurtful, and helps us In development, people participate in improving their lives understand how paternalism creates barriers that can make us beyond what they have seen before, experiencing reconciliation ineffective in our helping. in their relationships. The materially poor recognize their gifts and abilities God has given them, using those gifts to His glory What are the links to register for these classes? and to support themselves through work.

• Saturday, April 5, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. class: Our desire is to enlighten and establish a paradigm shift northlandchurch.wufoo.com/forms/understandingto programs and systems of help that are “rehabilitation” poverty-saturday-452014 or “development” in nature in our community. To this end, • Thursday, April 10, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. class: Northland is working with its faith partners and community northlandchurch.wufoo.com/forms/understandingpartners in our tri-county area to impact homelessness and poverty-thursday-april-10-2014 poverty. When we walk alongside people as equals in God’s eyes, we create a partnership that leads to trust and growth.

What is the When Helping Hurts – Small Group Experience?

The question you might be asking yourself now: What are my Good intentions are not enough; it is possible to hurt people next steps? or How can I be involved in helping without hurting? in the very process of trying to help them. The goal of this sixAttend an informational session on Understanding Poverty session series is to equip the church with a ministry framework and Serving to Empower Others either on Saturday, April 5, or that restores people in need to fulfilling their God-given callings Thursday, April 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Northland. and potential.

A link to register for one of these classes can be found on the Northland website or in the FAQ section on this page.

• Attend or establish a When Helping Hurts – Small Group What is the goal of a Poverty Simulation?

Experience (six sessions, an hour and a half each).

The Poverty Simulation is a unique, interactive experience • Participate in or help with a Poverty Simulation, a threethat helps people begin to understand what life is like with a hour experience, in October. shortage of money and an abundance of stress. The simulation

“Poverty is not just about a lack of resources; it is a very personal attack on people’s sense of worth and hope. It is at the same time a challenge for the people of God to give the able poor a hand up so that someday they can do the same for others.”

moves you to be more sensitive to the feelings and needs of those who are living in the crisis of poverty.

What is a Poverty Simulation?

In the simulation, participants assume the roles of up to 26 different families facing a variety of challenging, but typical, circumstances. Some people are homeless, others have recently become unemployed, and some are suddenly faced with the responsibility of raising grandchildren. In addition, volunteers play the roles of resource providers, such as social workers, loan officers, employers, pawnbrokers, grocers, utility collectors, police officers and teachers.

The program is conducted in a large room. Participants are seated in family clusters, and community resources are located at tables around the perimeter of the room. To start the simulation, each family is given a card explaining its unique situation, as well as a small amount of “money.”

Then the families must secure food, shelter and other basic necessities by accessing the various resources during the course of four 15-minute “weeks.”

The activity lasts approximately three hours and includes an introduction and briefing by a facilitator, the simulation exercise itself and a debriefing, in which participants and volunteers share what they have learned about living in poverty. The simulation leaves a lasting impression on participants and communities.

Can the Poverty Simulation make a difference?

The Poverty Simulation can mean different things to different participants. It can help resource providers better identify with the needs of their customers. It can help community leaders create and implement policies and programs that address the issue of poverty with more effectiveness. It can help students gain empathy and appreciation for the diverse world around them. For everyone it can inspire a commitment to making a positive difference in his or her community.

“The present life is the only opportunity that will be given me for helping others in this world. That is a privilege which even Angels are not allowed. We shall have Heaven for ever, but we have only a short time for service here, and therefore must not waste the one opportunity.”

– SADHU SUNDAR SINGH (1889-1929), The Message of Sadhu Sundar Singh, B. H. Streeter & A.J. Appasamy, New York: The Macmillan Company, 1922, p. 38

As of 2012, 46.5 million Americans live in poverty. This is the largest number in the 55 years for which poverty estimates have been published. In America, one out of five children under age 18 lives in poverty.

SOURCE: “Income, Poverty, and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2012”

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northlandchurch.net/volunteer

VOLUNTEER at Northland Community Connection in The Hub

BY REBECCA LANG

I

n last month’s Respond, you may have read about an upcoming opportunity for connection and relationship building. The launch of this movement to help you connect more easily with other Northlanders in your neighborhood kicks off in early March, so be on the lookout in worship for more information.

Our big church can feel a lot smaller when connection is made on a more personal level. With that in mind, our Media Design, Information Technology and Congregational Life teams have been praying and working together over the past few months to develop channels that we hope will support you in meeting other Northlanders for the purpose of entering into and growing discipling relationships. We are passionate about relationship building, so we’ve designed three different ways for you to engage with your neighbors through the help of some very special leaders.

It takes many people to support connection for our large congregation. We are blessed to have amazing leaders commit to be your touch point in the areas where you live. Some will connect you to opportunities to meet other Northlanders, others will open their homes to host casual gatherings, and another group will lead you in learning what being a disciple means and how you might use that knowledge to disciple others. Here’s how these three community leaders will help you grow to know others in your neighborhood and go on to grow deeper in your relationship with Christ.

Neighborhood Connectors: These leaders will be a first touch point if you are looking to find other Northlanders in

your community. With a quick call or email to these leaders, you’ll be on your way to learning about opportunities to meet and engage with other Northlanders right in your own backyard. These folks will help connect you to upcoming neighborhood gatherings or a nearby First Principles group, or even introduce you to other Northland congregants you had no idea lived so close. Neighborhood Connectors are passionate about helping you connect in several ways!

Neighborhood Gathering Hosts: These leaders have a gift for hospitality. They serve our congregation by opening their homes several times throughout the year. They are excited about hosting Northland families as a way to build relationships through simply connecting others through food, fun and fellowship.

Neighborhood First Principles Group Leaders: These leaders are passionate about connecting others through studying the Bible, specifically what it has to say about discipleship. They host regular studies in their homes and look forward to digging in with folks who want to learn more about what it means to be a disciple and to disciple others in their circle of influence.

We are excited to launch these three avenues of connection to help you discover where you might want to jump in! We’ve got some amazing technology to aid in these efforts. Take a look at our map! It quickly enables us to find your neighborhood leader right in The Hub. Be on the lookout for this incredible technology to roll out in March. Once you’ve heard the announcement about its release, we hope you’ll stop by The Hub and check it out! Better yet, sign up to connect with one of your neighborhood leaders. They can’t wait to meet you!

Rebecca and Jordan would love to help you connect!

Volunteer Needs: Be sure to check out some of our pressing needs.

We’d love to help connect you! Give Jordan a call, or visit him in The Hub! Jordan at 407-949-1178 or jordan.gritter@northlandchurch.net Children’s Ministries teachers and helpers: Help bring the message of the gospel to our children each week as a Children’s Church teacher or assistant. We will train and equip you.

Debbie Blahnik at debbie.blahnik@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7162 Children’s check-in greeter: Welcome and check in our Northland families with children for weekend worship.

Help them find the right classroom, and answer any questions they have.

Debbie Blahnik at debbie.blahnik@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7162 Public safety workers: The safety of our children and congregation is a top priority. There are several ways you can connect with this team. Opportunities include joining our parking, security and/or law enforcement team.

Jeff Hess at jeff.hess@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1827 Hub hosts: Are you a connector? Do you love talking to people and helping them find their next step? If so, we could use you! Come hang out in The Hub after the service you regularly attend, and welcome our guests and congregants.

Rebecca Lang at rebecca.lang@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1807 Nurses, doctors and EMTs: Serve the children of our Access ministry during service on Saturday nights in the children’s grade school wing. We have several children with medical needs who would love a “Buddy” with medical knowledge.

Heather Subbert at heather.subbert@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1828 Divorce Recovery facilitator: If you have walked with a support group after going through a divorce and want to help others to experience personal growth and healing, you could be a class facilitator. Application and interview process required. Training and curriculum provided.

Elaine Harland-Colter at elaine.harland-colter@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4002 GriefShare facilitator: If you have experienced grief due to the death of a loved one and want to help lead someone through this journey to healing, you could help by being a class facilitator. Application and interview process required.

Training and curriculum provided.

Elaine Harland-Colter at elaine.harland-colter@northlandchurch.net or 407-9494002

The Clark family and other community leaders can’t wait to connect with you!

northlandchurch.net/middleschool • northlandchurch.net/highschool

STUDENT MINISTRIES MIDDLE SCHOOL MINISTRY To register for any of these activities and for more detailed info, visit northlandchurch.net/middleschool.

Shaylynn Stoner at 407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net LUGrox Saturdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center.

(Off March 8 and April 19) LUGrox is an evening full of high energy, high impact and just plain fun! You’ll find thrilling games, solid teaching, rockin’ worship and friend-connecting small groups.

Optional dinner (two slices of pizza, chips and lemonade) is available for $3. Register by completing the profile, linked at the top of northlandchurch.net/ middleschool.

MIDDLE SCHOOL DOULOS Sundays, 11 a.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Middle School Doulos will help students connect what they experience in worship service to their daily lives and was designed for parents who are serving during the 11 a.m. service.

HIGH SCHOOL MINISTRY To register for any of these activities and for more detailed info, visit northlandchurch.net/highschool.

Shaylynn Stoner at 407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net I AM THIRD Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Ninth- to 12th-graders are invited to an evening of small and large group discipleship, worship and community.

Small groups meet from 6 to 6:50 p.m., food and games are available from 6:50 to 7:15 p.m., with everyone coming together at 7:15 p.m. First-time attendees are encouraged to complete the high school profile at northlandchurch.net/highschool before attending.

Senior Life Prep Sundays, 1:15 p.m., the Gritters’, 101 Caspian Cove, Sanford.

Connect with other seniors, and plan for graduation and what happens next!

Attend Senior Life Prep, and save the dates for the Senior Trip, March 12 to 16!

COLLEGE MINISTRY Fusion (For students ages 18 to 25) Sundays, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center.

Dinner ($3 donation), Bible study and small group connection.

Holly Christian at 407-883-1891 or pursuedbychrist@gmail.com

Mark Your Calendar!

For more info, visit northlandchurch.net/middleschool or northlandchurch.net/highschool

The Landing Fridays, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing.

Do you know of a hurting or struggling teen? Are you a teen who feels like life is out of control? The Landing is a 52-week program that is based on the beatitudes, is geared specifically toward teens in grades 6 through 12, is studentdriven, and runs concurrently with Celebrate Recovery. The Landing is a safe place where struggling teens can acquire tools to live a Christ-centered life. No registration is required.

Suzanne Long at slong27@gmail.com

Middle School Spring Retreat March 7 to 9, Southwind. and registration: northlandchurch.net/middleschool

Servant Leadership Ministry We offer servant leadership training and opportunities to serve for 9th-graders (setup crew), 10th- to 12th-graders (LUGheads, Welcome, Admin, Cafe Teams) and college students (small group leaders and work crews). northlandchurch.net/highschool

northlandchurch.net/ministry/childrens_church

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES Children’s Church

Northland Early Learning Center

Debbie Blahnik, director of Children’s Ministries, at 407-949-7162 or debbie.blahnik@northlandchurch.net • Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5) During all worship services in the Children’s Worship Wing.

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

• Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten) During all worship services in the Early Childhood Wing.

• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2) During all worship services in the Early Childhood Wing.

• Children with Special Needs (Age 3 – Grade 5) A variety of options are available.

Heather Subbert at heather.subbert@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1828

A weekday cooperative learning environment The Northland Early Learning Center will enroll children who have reached the age of 2, 3 or 4 by September 1 into the 2-, 3- or 4-year-olds class, respectively. As classes fill up, children will be placed on a waiting list and put in a class on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure your child’s spot in a class, there is a $65 nonrefundable registration fee.

Pam Anderson at 407-949-7179 or pam.anderson@ northlandchurch.net

Volunteer of the Month: Jenny Metzdorf

In grade school, Katie drew a picture of Jesus’ transformation.

We learned that Jesus’ face shone like the sun and God said to listen to Him.

Teaching second grade is where you’ll find the energetic Jenny Metzdorf on Sunday mornings.

Jenny has a huge heart for teaching the next generation and has faithfully done so for six years! She continually blesses the children and team around her with kindness, commitment and love for Christ. Thank you, Jenny, for your servant’s heart!

We are so blessed to serve alongside you!

Why did you draw that?

Mark Your Calendar!

Calling all 5th-graders and their parents!

Get a JumpStart!

Saturday, March 15, 6:30 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing.

Fifth-grade students will experience a great scavenger hunt, while parents experience LUGrox by full immersion as participants, with Student Ministries leaders as their guides.

Bring a covered dish to share!

Jeremy Penn, Northland’s middle school minister, at jeremy.penn@northlandchurch.net, or Krystal Rivera of Children’s Ministries at krystal.rivera@northlandchurch.net

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WAYS TO RESPOND Baptisms Adult Baptisms Sunday, March 9, 2 p.m., Ken and Diane Watkins’ home. Get baptized by immersion or sprinkling as a public profession of personal faith in Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19). Call to sign up.

Sharon Ferreira at 407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@ northlandchurch.net Child Baptisms Northland recommends the Steps for Young Believers course for grade schoolaged children prior to baptism, but it is not mandatory.

Diane Jones at diane.jones@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7188 Infant Baptism/Dedication Class Saturday, March 15, 7 p.m., room 4206.

Child care is available upon request.

Diane Jones at 407-949-7188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net

Bible Studies

The group study will approach this topic from the 40,000-foot level, with contextual history in mind, delving deep into the Word.

Robert Johnson at 407-937-1765 or robert. johnson@northlandchurch.net Luke (The Life and Times of Jesus) Sundays, 10:45 a.m., rooms 4206-07. Come early for refreshments, and make new friends.

Investigate Luke’s historical documentation of events that surround the life and teaching of Jesus. Hosted by John and Carolyn Jones.

Taught by Dr. Wayne Lukens.

Wayne Lukens at wlukens@cfl.rr.com or 407-3654735 Transformers — Young married couples (mid-20s to -40s) Sundays, 10:45 a.m. to noon, Fellowship Hall, Student Ministries and Care Center.

Our goal is to build relationships and grow in our marriages by studying God’s Word and applying it to our lives. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net.

Tim and Michelle Kutcher at tim.kutcher@gmail.com

ADULTS

MEN

Acts Bible Study Sundays through December 28, 9 to 10:30 a.m., room 4206. Learn from Dr. Dan Lacich how the first-century church in the book of Acts relates to us today as we become disciples and establish and plant churches that will impact the world with the gospel.

Barb Olsen at barbara.olsen@ northlandchurch.net

AMEN (A Meeting of Men) Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 5108-9, Children’s Worship Wing. Learn to apply God’s Word to real-life situations.

Dan Bogdan at 407-702-5358 or danbogdan@ adullamroad.com

FaithAbility Third Friday of the month, 6:30 p.m., room 5100, Children’s Worship Wing. Monthly Bible study and connection group for adults with intellectual disabilities and their family members and friends. Bring your Bible.

Heather Subbert at heather.subbert@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1828 Firm Foundations Sundays, either 9 a.m. or 10:45 a.m., room 4209. Study the Bible chronologically for one year to understand God’s overarching plan from creation to Christ. This class is for new adult believers and those who are seeking to gain a clear understanding of God, our relationship with Him, and the grace He has made freely available through the death of His Son. The study guide is available in the Northland Bookstore.

Register at northlandchurch.net/classes. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura. pinckard@northlandchurch.net.

Mike Sheffey at msheffey@cfl.rr.com Hispanic Ministry - Bible Study Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 5100.

Child care is available - for reservation, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net.

Laura Capizzano at laura.capizzano@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1824 Ministerio Hispano - Estuido Biblico Semanal Todos los miércoles de 7 a 8:30 p.m. en el aula 5100. Cuidado de niños está disponible - póngase en contacto con Laura Pinckard a laura.pinckard@northlandchurch. net.

Laura Capizzano a laura.capizzano@ northlandchurch.net o 407-937-1824 Letters of Paul Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 2211, Administration Wing. Study the teachings of Paul chronologically, with an eye from history.

There are limitless opportunities to grow in God and connect with others in and through Northland. Here are some great places to start!

Man in the Mirror Men’s Bible Study,

by Pat Morley Tuesdays, 6:45 to 8 a.m., room 1118, Student Ministries and Care Center.

Bob Shoemaker at bshoemaker@ compass1.org or 407-599-3132 Men of Honor Thursdays, 7:15 to 9 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing, room 5102. This weekly meeting of men consists of fun and watching a DVD, followed by a group discussion, family and business topics, prayer and praise reports. All topics revolve around the biblical definition of “manhood,” raising men as family leaders and being disciples of Christ.

Vito Fera at vito@networksoundinc.com or 407-923-5115 Philippians Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1118. Join this open-forum discussion on the book of Philippians: 45 minutes of study and 15 minutes of prayer.

Leo Carrier at leo@carrierinsurance.com

WOMEN “David: Seeking a Heart Like His” Beth Moore Study Mondays, March 10 through May 19, 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., or Tuesdays, March 11 through May 20, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care. Ladies, if you’ve ever experienced doubts, fears, temptations, losses or anguish over family problems, this 11-week class is for you!

Workbooks are available at the Northland Bookstore for $17.95. Child care is provided; contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net. and registration for Mondays: Anne Sullivan at 407-332-8318 or annesullivan@cfl.rr.com, or Cherrie Rowe at cherrierowe@aol.com; and registration for Tuesdays: Tracie Theune at 407-402-2417

or theunemom@aol.com, or Cherrie Rowe at cherrierowe@aol.com

Classes & Training Check the Northland website (northlandchurch.net/classes/) for the most up to date information on all classes.

ADULTS Belong/Membership Opportunities • One-day seminar: Saturday, May 3, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., The Rink. Hear Dr. Joel C. Hunter and other senior leaders describe what it means to belong to Christ and to Northland. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch. Registration on-line or email to: belong@northlandchurch.net Ruth Sapp at 407-949-4039 or ruth. sapp@northlandchurch.net • Online: Anytime at northlandchurch.net/ series/belong_study/ • DVD: Anytime and sold in the Northland bookstore at Longwood.

Blended Family Educational Series Sundays, March 2 through April 20, 9 to 10:30 a.m., room 4204. Find support with other families experiencing similar blended family struggles and challenges. Learn how to build a healthy blended family in this Christian-based eight-week series. The book (optional) is $13.99 in the Northland Bookstore. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@northlandchurch. net.

Jeff Reinking at jfreinking@cfl.rr.com or 407-616-6658 Classical Conversations Info Meeting Monday, March 24, 9:45 to 11:45 a.m., Children’s Worship Wing foyer. Considering homeschooling? Come and learn more!

Classical Conversations is a classical academic community for grade school and middle school families that meets regularly at Northland at Longwood. and registration: Jennie Li at LiLongwoodCC@gmail. com; about Classical Conversations: ClassicalConversations.com Digging Even Deeper Saturdays, 6:45 to 8 p.m., room 4128 (cry room.) This is a time to examine the evening’s message through the Bible and how to apply it to our lives. Join in the opportunity to dig a little deeper and strengthen your walk with Jesus. It’s a great way to discover your gifts and passion for the ministry for which God has equipped you.

Child care is unavailable.

Shirley Todd at shirleytodd325@aol.com Stephen Ministry Do you have passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need? Would you like to know more about how to help people who are experiencing pain during difficult transitions in life? If so, you may be a great Stephen Minister candidate. Stephen Ministers care for our congregation by meeting one-on-one with those experiencing grief, job transition, or a variety of other struggles. Ministers are commissioned following a 50-hour training process. If you’re interested, attend a Stephen Ministry Orientation.

Lynda at lynda.mason@northlandchurch.net or 407949-4013

Understanding Poverty/Serving to Empower Saturday, April 5, or Thursday, April 10, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., fellowship hall, Northland at Longwood. We come into contact with “people in need” every day in all walks of our lives. There isn’t a magic formula or fix that we can do in our own strength, unfortunately. Many Christians don’t recognize by providing a handout to those who are capable of helping themselves, churches and ministries contribute to the materially poor’s sense of shame and undermine their capacity to work. This class will cover the basics of understanding poverty and how we can best serve those who are experiencing hardship in their lives. Participants also will spend time understanding how sometimes our help can actually hurt those we serve. Register at northlandchurch. wufoo.com/forms/understanding-povertysaturday-452014 or northlandchurch.wufoo. com/forms/understanding-poverty-thursdayapril-10-2014.

Emily Tallman at emily. tallman@northlandchurch.net or 407-9494017

CHILDREN Steps for Young Believers (Grades 2-5) and Their Parents These courses in basic discipleship include classroom sessions and daily at-home devotionals. Materials cost: $5. Registration is required.

Krystal Rivera at krystal. rivera@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7153 • STEP 1—BECOMING A PART OF GOD’S FAMILY: TBD Focus: Salvation and assurance. Includes Communion instruction.

• STEP 2—THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: Sundays, March 2 through April 6, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Focus: Jesus’ Life A-Z, a basic discipleship theme and learning about the life of Christ. Baptism offered at end of course.

• STEP 3—DISCOVERING THE POWER OF THE BIBLE: Wednesdays, January 22 through April 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Focus: This course will answer questions that we have about the Bible, such as these: What’s in the Old and New Testament?

How do we use the Bible? Why did God give us the Bible? Why translate it? How can we understand it? How can we share it with others? Pizza will be served at 6 p.m. for a small charge.

MEN Stepping Up: A Call to Courageous Manhood Saturday, March 8, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center.

If there was ever a time when men needed vision for what it means to be a godly man, this is it. Imagine if we could call men from all walks of life to become courageous, godly leaders in their lives, marriages, churches and communities. We can! In this event, DVDs deliver dramatic stories, humorous vignettes, man-on-the-street interviews and expert teaching from such ministry leaders as Dennis Rainey, Robert Lewis, Bill Bennett, Tony Dungy, Crawford Loritts, James MacDonald, Matt Chandler, Mark Driscoll, Matt Hammitt and more. The cost is $38

by February 28, or $45 after that.

Tom Horvath at tom.horvath@northlandchurch.net or 407-557-8903

Groups CARE GROUPS ADULTS Alcoholics Anonymous Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 5207-8. This is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with one another, that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. AA’s primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

Frank Turner at 407-599-9770 or Carol Sorensen at 407-617-6449 Al-Anon Support Group Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., room 5209.

Alcoholism affects families, and can affect our emotional well-being, for better or worse.

Problem drinking can make life extremely difficult for the non-drinking family member.

Al‑Anon members share their experience, strength and hope in coping with an intimate relationship that is affected by alcoholism or drug abuse.

Nancy Cook 407-484-3069 Celebrate Recovery Fridays, 7 to 9 p.m., Sanctuary. Gain freedom from life’s hurts, hang-ups and habits over dinner, fellowship and share groups, which include CR 101, Men’s and Women’s Addiction, Men’s and Women’s Co-dependency, Mom’s of Addicts, Men’s Anger, Men’s Sexual Addiction, Women’s Relationship Addiction, Women’s Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse and Eating Disorders for Women. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura. pinckard@northlandchurch.net.

Laurie Jean Harrington at celebraterecovery@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1799 Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, call for time and location.

Next session starts May 6. This support group walks alongside individuals who have been through a divorce and helps them to experience personal growth and healing.

Registration and assessment are required.

Child care is available.

407-937-1749 GriefShare Mondays, through June 10 (no meeting May 26), 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., rooms 4206-07.

If you are experiencing grief due to the death of a loved one, this healing ministry helps walk you through the steps toward healing. The journal is available for $19 in the Northland Bookstore. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@northlandchurch. net. and registration: Elaine Harland-Colter at elaine.harland-colter@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4002 GriefShare for Kids Mondays, through June 10 (no meeting May 26), 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., room 4209.

GriefShare for Kids is for children ages 6 through 16 whose parents are attending GriefShare. This is a support group to help the children understand the levels of grief and how they can voice what they are feeling. Workbook cost: $10.

Elaine Harland-Colter at elaine.harland-colter@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4002 Healing and Set Free (for Women) and Healing a Father’s Heart (for Men) Thursdays, through April 17, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 5104-05. If you feel you have never completely healed or recovered from an abortion experience, or that a past abortion may be affecting your current quality of life, then join this eight week study that offers a

biblical healing model.

Daria Monroe at dmonroe@truelifechoice.com or 407-2445529 or 407-929-6932 His Way Thursdays, 7 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. A Christcentered, 12-step recovery support program dealing with issues such as alcohol, drugs, relationships, food, sexual addictions, codependency and issues affecting adult children of addiction. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net.

A. Jay Fowinkle at Hisway@northlandchurch.net or 407-4166630 PRAXIS (Conquering Fear, Anger, Anxiety) Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 5106-07, CWW. Conquer fear, anger and anxiety through biblical principles. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net.

Skye Engel at 407834-3158 PeaceSeekers This ministry takes the biblical approach to handling all levels and types of conflict. From classes in PeaceMaker to conflict coaching and mediation, this ministry makes a difference in all relationships.

Nita Zelenak at nita_zelenak@ntm.org (regarding class), or Rich Arndt at volvoom@gmail.com (regarding mediation and conflict coaching) Support for the Separated Tuesdays, call for time and location. Next session starts May 6. Support group for those who are separated with court papers pending, for healing, hope and reconciliation in the Lord. Registration and assessment required. Child care is available.

407-9371749

MEN 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. Workbook cost: $17 at Northland’s bookstore.

Bryce Hagedorn at 407227-3072 or brycehagedorn@yahoo.com; or Kevin Urichko at 407-949-7166 or kevin. urichko@northlandchurch.net

WOMEN

COMMUNITY GROUPS What is a community group?

It’s a small group — a gathering of you and your Christian community hinged on a mission of responding to God TOGETHER for the benefit of others! Find or form a group of your own at community.northlandchurch.net.

Dwell Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m., connect for location, as it will change every week. This small group of creative and artistic young professionals ranging from age 20 to 30 years old seeks to dwell in community, both with one another and with Christ, through building authentic relationships, serving the local community, and engaging in worship and Scripture. twitter @northland_dwell or dwell.northland@gmail.com

PRAYER GROUPS Children’s Ministries Prayer Team Pray weekly from your home for needs in Children’s Ministries.

Carol Moss at carol. moss@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7180 Evening Prayer Group Thursdays, 6 to 7 p.m., prayer room.

Elaine Harland at 407-949-4002 or elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net Hispanic Ministry - Friday Prayer Fridays, (except for the third Friday of the month) 7 to 8:30 p.m, room 4108 (prayer room). Gather for a short devotional and prayer. Child care is available - for reservation, contact Laura Pinckard at laura. pinckard@northlandchurch.net.

Anita Arce at mrsclasdearce@gmail.com or 407242-3642 Ministerio Hispano - Viernes de Oración Los viernes excepto el tercer viernes del mes. 7 a 8:30pm en la sala 4108 (sala de oración). Nos reuniremos para hacer un pequeno devocional y oración. Cuidado de niños está disponible - póngase en contacto con Laura Pinckard a laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net.

Anita Arce a mrsclasdearce@gmail.com o 407-242-3642

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

BCAUSE—Breast Cancer Survival Any woman touched by breast cancer desiring prayer, fellowship, information and/or encouragement, contact Susan Diener-Blando at 407-488-5941 or susandb@yahoo.com.

Active and Retired Law Enforcement Officers Third Thursday of the month, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., room 5100, Children’s Worship Wing.

Currently studying John Eldredge’s Beautiful Outlaw.

Paul Griffith at 407-557-7678 or paulgfl02@aol.com

Women Facing Love, Sex and Relationship Addiction Group Thursdays, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 5106-7, Children’s Worship Wing. This group support provides confidential care and recovery from fantasy, romance, love and sex/pornography addiction. For child care, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@northlandchurch. net.

Suzanne Rucker at 407-967-9313 or LifeCounselingSolutions@gmail.com

Adoption/Foster Care Ministry Meeting Third Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m., room 4213. Are you interested or experienced in adoption or foster care? This group provides information, community and enrichment. Child care is available; contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net.

Denise Niro at nirofamily@bellsouth.net or Naomi James at 321-746-9588

Women’s Healing Ministry Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 4218.

This group will provide hope and a safe place to heal if you have experienced sexual betrayal, deception and lies of secrecy that keep you in bondage.

Vicki M. Wotring at 520-631-0886 or celebratelife3@aol.com

Arabic-speaking Community Sundays, 9:45 to 10:45 a.m., room 4213.

Join in for worship, prayer, fellowship and a cup of coffee.

Mamdouh Nasr at 407385-5772 or mamdmata@gmail.com Book Club Thursday, March 27, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 4218. The book club is meeting to discuss the book “Battlefield of the Mind,” by Joyce Meyer. They would love for you to join in and share with the group how Meyer’s writing has

impacted your life. Register at bookstore@ northlandchurch.net.

Sarah Vacca at sarah.vacca@northlandchurch.net or 407949-7199 Common Ground Adult Ministry (Ages 25-45) 1st and 3rd Mondays, 7:15 to 8:15 p.m., room 1101, Student Ministries and Care Center. Come make some friends and grow in Christ with us through fellowship, worship, and scripture. Child care is available with registration by contacting Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@northlandchurch.net.

Susan Lapp at commonground@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0558 Kingdom Advisors Fourth Thursday of each month, noon to 1:15 p.m., room 4209. Financial professionals, join this lunch study group to learn how to build your practice on biblical principles.

Philip van Staden at 407-339-9090 Knit and Chat Tuesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Foyer by Information Desk. This group is for those who knit (or crochet) or want to learn how to knit. Knit and Chat is intended for fellowship while sharing the joy of knitting.

Contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net for child care for children 10 and under. www.facebook.com/ knitandchat.

Nitza at milliesnow009@ yahoo.com Men’s Racquetball Group Wednesdays, 6 p.m., Sanlando Park in Altamonte Springs. After game time, the group members sit on benches and fellowship by telling life’s stories and praying for one another’s needs. This is great for exercise and fellowship. No experience is required.

Alex Crane at alexmcrane@live. com or 321-303-0831 Moms4Moms Get connected with other moms for friendship and encouragement through meetings and playgroup activities.

Registration required.

Alexis Krogman at alexiskrogman@yahoo.com Moms4Moms: The Next Chapter Last Sunday of the month, 6 to 8 p.m., room 1117, Student Ministries and Care Center. We look forward to building relationships as we seek God’s wisdom in parenting. This will be a great opportunity to discuss many books that will help us navigate the winding road of parenthood. We hope to see you each month as we get to know each other better by sharing both God’s Word and our life experiences. Upcoming book list and meeting dates are March 30: The Robe, by Lloyd C. Douglas; April 27: Raising Great Kids, by Henry Cloud and John Townsend; and May 18: Through Gates of Splendor, by Elisabeth Elliot.

Laura Pinckard at laura. pinckard@northlandchurch.net Motorcycle Ministry Ride to Palatka Saturday, March 22, 9:30 a.m., call for location. The group will meet at 9:30 a.m. and depart at 10 a.m. for Palatka to have lunch on the St. Johns River. Ride along some of Florida’s prettiest country back roads and the Ocala National Forest for a great time of fellowship.

Lori Landers at 352-729-6912 Northland Veterans for Christ Tuesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 5110, CWW. Christian brothers and sisters who are veterans of the Armed Forces gathering to grow in Christ, share common experiences, support each other and eventually reach out to the greater community of veterans in the Orlando area.

Randy Mixon at 808-343-4391 or

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10 rmixon75@gmail.com or Peter Grace at 407575-1360 or petergrace73@yahoo.com.

Sew and Serve First Saturday of each month, 9:30 a.m., room 1104, the Rink. They are currently sewing pillowcase (or sheet) dresses which will be distributed by various Northland mission teams. Bring your portable machines and materials (if you have them) to the gatherings.

Joan Siegel at siegeljk@aol.com Single Purpose (Singles age 30 and up) Second and fourth Sunday of each month, 3 p.m., rooms 4206-07. Class series will be Living Beyond Yourself, by Beth Moore. This is a study on having the Fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Teri Long at 407-4703431, Sue Hemphill at 407-314-5817, or meetup.com/OACS08 Hispanic Ministry - Monthly Gathering Third Friday of each month, 7 p.m., Fellowship Hall. Bring a dish to share and any Spanish-speaking family and friends . Child care is available - for reservation, contact Laura Pinckard at laura.pinckard@ northlandchurch.net.

Anita Arce at 407242-3642 or mrsclasdearce@gmail.com.

Ministerio Hispano - Reunion Mensual Nos reunimos el tercer viernes de cada mes, 7 p.m., Fellowhip Hall. Traiga un plato para compartir y traiga su familia y amigos que hablan español. Cuidado de niños está disponible - póngase en contacto con Laura Pinckard a laura.pinckard@northlandchurch. net.

Anita Arce a 407-242-3642 o mrsclasdearce@gmail.com Hispanic Ministry - Spanish Translation Sundays, 9 and 11 a.m. services. Spanish translation is available online and listening devices are available at the Welcome Desk.

Join the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/northlandhispano.

Anita Arce at 407-242-3642 or mrsclasdearce@gmail.com Ministerio Hispano - Traducción a Español Domingos, en los servicios de las 9 y 11 a.m. Traducción a español esta disponible en línea. Los auriculares para escuchar el servicio estan disponibles en el Mostrador de Bienvenida o “Welcome Desk”. Información en nuestra página de Facebook en www.facebook.com/ northlandhispano.

Anita Arce a 407-2423642 o mrsclasdearce@gmail.com Tennis Saturdays, 8 a.m., Red Bug Lake Park.

Jeff Rossmeissl at 407-489-6096 Word Weavers Second Saturday of each month, 9:30 a.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. www.wordweaversonline.com

Serve at Northland For additional ways to serve at Northland, visit northlandchurch.net/ volunteer.

Children’s Ministries There are plenty of ways to serve in Children’s Ministries. Whether it is through preparing the weekly take-home resources, teaching or helping in a classroom on the weekends, or manning the children’s library during the week, volunteers make a difference.

Debbie Blahnik at debbie.blahnik@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7162

Communion Servers Communion servers are needed the first weekend of each month. Training provided.

Karen Hays at communion@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0575 Info Desk Hosts Needed Answer questions and direct newcomers before and after the worship services. Five service choices each weekend. Stop by the Info Kiosk (with the big question mark) and find out how you can get started or contact Terry Wenner at tbardwen@aol.com.

Medical First Responders During worship services and special events.

BLS-trained or medical professionals, especially EMTs, are needed.

Lori Holton at lori.holton@northlandchurch.net or 407949-4000 Parking and Traffic Attendants Weekend volunteers are needed to help control traffic on Northland property before and after services. Help out as often or as little as you want.

Jeff Hess at jeff.hess@ northlandchurch.net or 407-272-9111 Phone Assistance Weekday volunteers are needed to answer phones and greet visitors. Flexible hours.

Lori Holton at lori.holton@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4000 Sermon interpreter If you can fluently interpret Spanish, we could use your help.

Mike Fernandez at mike.fernandez@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1753 Traducción del Sermón Nos encantaría trabajar con usted de forma voluntaria si usted puede interpretar Español.

Mike Fernandez at mike. fernandez@northlandchurch.net or 407-9371753 Special Needs Children and Teens Sundays, assist during the 11 a.m. worship service.

Heather Subbert at 407-9371828 or heather.subbert@northlandchurch.net Ushers and Greeters Greet and seat those attending worship services. No experience necessary.

Lori Holton at lori.holton@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4000 Welcome Team Believers are needed to make phone calls, welcoming first-time visitors and connecting with interested attendees regarding various ministry projects. Training provided, flexible hours.

Brian King at brian.king@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0567

Serve With Northland Blood Drive Sunday, March 2, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Northland at Longwood. In February, 48 people donated 36 units, and as a result 108 lives were saved. To reduce your waiting time, you may schedule a time slot at www. floridasbloodcenters.org.

Ruth Sapp at ruth. sapp@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4039 Celebrate Recovery – Inside Co-facilitate weekly classes in the Seminole County jail. A workbook, a DVD and materials are available. Must have one or more years of recovery. Minimum commitment: twice a month.

Susan Lumb at susan.lumb@ northlandchurch.net

Child Advocates Become a Guardian ad Litem. In an ideal situation, a child has a parent or caregiver paying attention, but for many children, there is no one. Will you give some of your time and compassion to such a child? As a GAL volunteer, a Court-Appointed Special Advocate, you would be there to speak in the child’s best interest.

Ellizabeth McAdams at 407-6655386 or elizabeth.mcadams@gal.fl.gov Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) Weekly Good News Clubs are held in elementary schools in the area. They need volunteers from the schools, churches and the community with love for children and various skills set to serve and reach out to the children and families.

Jeneba Davies at 407-435-4673 or Jenesther1@bellsouth.net, or www.cefcenfl.org Disaster Response Teams Train and prepare for serving during times of disaster and local outreach field exercises.

All levels of experience are needed, from professionals to those who want to be trained.

Judy Head at judy.head@ northlandchurch.net or 407-388-5798 Co-facilitate Classes in the Jail Men, women or couples are needed to share their faith and knowledge with Seminole County inmates who desire a change in their lives. Training and workbooks are provided.

Thisis a twice-a-month commitment.

Susan Lumb at 321-297-2416 or susan.lumb@ northlandchurch.net Family Advocacy Office Couples or individuals interested in making a difference in the lives of more than 900 homeless families with school-aged children in Seminole County are needed. Commitment: about 10 hours a month to help one family for a 90-day window to connect to resources within SCPS and other community resources.

Training is provided.

Maria Penzes at maria. penzes@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0554 Free Clinic Volunteers Needed Harvest Time International’s Medical Care Center is currently looking for volunteers who would like to commit to serve at least once a month. It needs doctors, nurses, dentists, dental assistants and other medical staff as well as clerical volunteers to qualify the families (does require one-time training). The clinic will serve needy families without health insurance in our community. The hours are Monday through Saturday.

Ami Staggs at 407-8785495 or ami@harvesttime.org Healing and Transition (HAT) Program Seeking men and women who can walk alongside men and women in the process of changing and building a Christ-centered life.

No experience is needed. We will train; just bring your heart for serving others. Servant leaders are needed inside and outside the jail.

Susan Lumb at 321-297-2416, susan. lumb@northlandchurch.net or susan.lumb@ hatprogram.org Help at Bethany Christian Services Volunteers are needed to assist with clerical and office duties and to support the exchange of pictures/letters between birth families and adoptive families.

Christina at Bethany Christian Services at 407-8774006 or cmcgee@bethany.org Host Families Needed for Child in Crisis Loving Christian mentors and volunteer host homes are needed to temporarily house children through our Safe Families for Children ministry. Training is provided. Background checks are required.

Maria Penzes at 407937-0554 or maria.penzes@northlandchurch.net

Live Worship With Inmates Servant leaders are needed to attend worship in the jail and connect with the inmates.

Opportunities exist at all worship service times. No experience is necessary.

Dale Cowart at dale.cowart@northlandchurch.net 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. People are needed to bring the residents to the Sunday 9 a.m. service at Northland at Longwood.

Patsy Grannan at 407-538-5209 or pjgrannan@yahoo.com Mission Trip to Japan June 2 through 24. Mission to Japan is looking for college students who have a heart for mission trips to join a mission trip to Japan.

Warren Griffith at 407-243-8867 or info@ MissionToJapan.org Men Mentoring Fatherless Boys No age limit or experience required. Must be able to devote at least one hour per week.

Take the challenge, and build a life-changing relationship.

David Keys at nlmentoring@ gmail.com Mentors and Classroom Assistants Needed Mentors and classroom assistants are needed for Milwee Middle School students in Longwood. Need to be 18 years old or older and available at least one hour per week until the end of the school year. Must complete SCPS Dividend process.

Buzz Vincent, Milwee Middle School at 407-746-3802 or buzz_vincent@scps.k12.fl.us The Mercy Drive Achievers Club This is an after-school program of 51 children who gather weekdays from 3:30 to 5:30 for homework help, Bible lessons, interactive learning, fellowship and fun. The club needs more volunteers to ensure that its achievers get the individual attention they need to be successful students in a community where this is desperately needed. Would you like to share in the vision of a transformed community to the greater glory of God? Check out Mercy Drive Ministries on Facebook.

407-293-7784 PetPals Saturdays, except the fifth Saturday of the month. Share your pets with people in nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, etc.

Becky Yeager at leahyeager@aol.com or 407-699-4903 Reading/Tutoring Ministry Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Goldsboro Elementary and Magnet School, Sanford. Adults through seniors, especially retirees, read as “Nanas” and “Papas” to kindergarteners and/or tutor second graders in reading or math for one, two, or three hours. Tutoring may be done on alternate days.

Mary Weeks at marykweeks@gmail. com or 407-977-0724.

Reading and Math Buddies Mondays through Fridays, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Goldsboro Elementary School.

Help make a difference for a child struggling with reading or math by volunteering one hour a week.

Rebekah_richey@scps.k12. fl.us or 407-252-7009 Recovery Ministry Volunteers with a heart for the hurting, and recovery or 12-step experience needed to help with a ministry.

Laurie Jean Harrington at 407-977-6742 or lauriejean2@ bellsouth.net

Serve as a Worship Facilitator at the Orlando Bridge We are looking for a few good men! This position is responsible for greeting the inmates for service, handing out prayer cards and worship guides, and hosting the live feed for the Northland worship service through a ROKU box. Training is provided, and most serve one or two times per month.

Paula Gillon at 904-610-5492 or paula.gillon@ northlandchurch.net The Sharing Center Volunteers are needed at the Longwood and Sanford sites. Some positions include working at the client services offices or the thrift store, and picking up food from businesses. Volunteers also are needed in the Center’s Oasis, where homeless kids and adults can take a shower, get clothes washed, and use computers for homework and job searches.

407-260-9155 or www.thesharingcenter.org/volunteer Find other ways to serve in your community at northlandchurch.net/ blogs/serve_beyond/

Beyond Northland ADULTS Abortion Recovery Bible study for post-abortive men or women that meets in a confidential, supportive setting.

Reveille Ministries at 407-333-0404 Central Florida’s Job Fair (CFEC.org) Wednesday, March 26, noon to 4 p.m., Central Florida Fairgrounds & Exposition Park, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Visit www.CFEC.org to preregister, get job fair tips, research the companies listed, get directions or search Central Florida’s Online Job Board.

Christian HELP at 407-834-4022 or christianhelp.org Community Bible Study Wednesdays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Community United Methodist on 17-92.

Please join women from all backgrounds and levels of Bible knowledge to study the books of Amos & Isaiah. Children’s program is available. New Spanish group. On-going registration.

Olga Lizardo at 407-4159578 or visit Orlando.CBSclass.org Healing Grace Tuesdays, 6:30 to 8 p.m., TLC Women’s Center, 2992 Edgewater Drive, Orlando.

This post-abortion ministry shares the healing grace of Jesus without judgment.

Coorie Moore at 407-244-5527 Interfaith Opportunities Deepen your relationship with God. Bring Christ into the interfaith dialogue. Work with other faith traditions to promote peace, harmony and understanding. Help make “earth as it is in heaven.”

Robert Ray at 407-415-8528 or Robert.Ray@nrmafla.com Interfaith Discussion Wednesday, March 12, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Adventist University of Health Services, main campus, Florida Hospital, 671 Winyah Drive, Orlando. Topic: “Did God Create Us, or Did We Create God?” Religion 201 Series Tuesday, March 18, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Holocaust Center, 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland. The Interfaith Council of Central Florida presents “Does Your Faith Tradition Have a Monopoly on Truth and the Path to Salvation?” This lecture with a Q&A features moderator Rev. Kathy Schmitz and presenters from the Islamic, Buddhist and

Baha’i faith traditions.

Friends Talking Faith Tuesdays, 6:30 to 7 p.m., 90.7 FM radio.

The “Three Wise Guys” – Rabbi Steven Engel, Rev. Bryan Fulwider and Imam Muhammed Musri – come together to discuss topics from the different religions they represent. Their goal is to educate, enlighten, inspire and model a kind of interreligious dialogue that builds community and creates a world that is fit to live in for all of us.

March 4: Faith & Religion: Beginning of Life – Faith Rituals; March 11: Faith & Society: End of Life and Hospice; March 18: Faith & Religion: End of Life – Faith Rituals; and March 25: Faith & Culture: Prolonging Life and Euthanasia. .

Study of Matthew through Bible Study Fellowship International (BSF) BSF is providing an interdenominational, in-depth Bible study of the book of Matthew.

Day and evening classes are available for women, evenings for men and there are age-appropriate classes for children of all ages. For additional information about BSF International www.bsfinternational. org. For class details and/or registration information: Orlando Evening Women’s Class - Gina Horton at vhorton827@aol.com; Southwest Orlando Day Women’s Class - Edie Chambers at ebie948@gmail.com; Northwest Orlando Day Women’s Class Mimi Certo at Mimi@websolvers.com; Oviedo Day Women’s Class - Jill Read at jillread@aol. com; Orlando Evening Men’s Class - Gary Klein at garykleinbsf@gmail.com

MEN Christian Businessmen’s Connection 7 to 8 a.m.: Tuesdays, Denny’s, Lee Road exit off Interstate 4; Wednesdays, First Watch, 2425 West 434, Longwood; Thursdays, Perkins, University & Forsyth.

A worldwide men’s ministry for 83 years (www.cbmc.com) that meets for fellowship, prayer and discussion of God’s principles for business.

Armand Dauplaise at 407221-3114 or adauplaise@aol.com, or Larrie Kitchen at 407-462-4828, or Steve Doerr at 321-274-7072, or Pat Leupold at 407-5386026 Faithful and True Mondays, 6 to 7 p.m., Reformed Theological Seminary, Oviedo. Join a fellowship of men pursuing sexual integrity.

Josh Bales at 407-949-4000, xt. 1703

PARENTS NearHim Home Educators Supports and encourages families that God has called to teach their children at home. www.nearhim.com Parents Group for Moms and Dads Impacted by Homosexuality Second Monday each month, 7 p.m., Altamonte Springs ministry location.

Join this group where you can share your feelings, and learn how to respond to your gay loved one in a Godly way. For confidential information Cherrie at cherrierowe@aol.com or 407-322-6850

WOMEN Women’s Connection Luncheon Third Wednesday of each month, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., DeBary Golf & Country Club, 300 Plantation Drive. All women are invited to the monthly luncheon, designed to connect women with God, their community, and each

other.

Judy Ann Mumford at jamumford@ gmail.com or 386-753-9376 Workplace Ministry First Tuesday of each month, 5:30 p.m., Orlando. J4 Leaders (www.J4Leaders.org), an interdenominational ministry for women to help encourage one another to succeed with a biblical worldview.

Pam Oldham at info@J4Leaders.org or 407-522-4797

Donations

Please take clean, usable clothing, toys, household items, nonperishable food items and supplies to The Sharing Center, Fairmont Plaza, 600 N. Highway 1792, Longwood.

407-260-9155 or www. thesharingcenter.org 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.

Rita Divver at 407-920-3907 or jrdivver@cfl.rr.com Vehicles Needed at LifeHope. Many families working with the LifeHope ministry are able to obtain a job and begin the process of getting back on their feet, but transportation becomes a barrier. Vehicles must be safe and in good working condition.

Bud Abt at 407-415-0036 or bud.abt@northlandchurch. net to donate your vehicle Men’s casual clothes, backpacks, blankets, tennis shoes and hygienic supplies, are needed by Downtown Homeless ministry at St. George’s Orthodox Church, a ministry to the homeless in Orlando.

Dave Mullen at dmull77@yahoo.com

Christian and classic children’s books as well as parenting and marriage books are needed for the Northland Children’s and Family library.

Bethany Durys at bethany. durys@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0541 Vehicles are needed at Recovery House of Central Florida (www.recoveryhouseinc. org). It also needs pressure-washing equipment, power tools and hand tools.

Erik Robinson at 407-323-5857 or erikrhcf@yahoo.com Bed sheets, pillowcases and other items are needed at Safehouse of Seminole for battered women and their children. Complete needs list at www.safehouseofseminole.org. admin@safehouseofseminole.org or 407302-5220 Men’s neckties and dress shirts are needed to support the dress code for participants in the Healing and Transition (HAT) Program.

HAT is a program for men and women looking for life transformation following incarceration.

Donated cars assist with transportation to work.

Susan Lumb at 321-297-2416 or susan.lumb@hatprogram.org Bibles are needed for the Downtown Homeless Ministry. Donate new or used Bibles at the Northland Bookstore.

Dave Mullen at dmull77@yahoo.com

Looking for ministry-related jobs in Central Florida?

Need to hire at your ministry?

Find and post paid positions at jobs.northlandchurch.net.

Beautiful prayer plaques with these wise words from Pastor Isaac Hunter are now available at the Northland Bookstore.

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CONTACT INFO

530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750 www.northlandchurch.net | info@northlandchurch.net Main Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 Main Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4020 Northland Bookstore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7199 Send newspaper correspondence to: newspaper@northlandchurch.net.

GOVERNING ELDERS Thom Willis, Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 thom.willis@northlandchurch.net Owusu Amaning, Vice Chairman. . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1797 owusu.amaning@northlandchurch.net Marcus Mennenga, Secretary-Treasurer. . . . . . . 407-949-7169 marcus.mennenga@northlandchurch.net Dale Burket. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1809 dale.burket@northlandchurch.net Fred Franz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1766 fred.franz@northlandchurch.net Danny Gordon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1763 danny.gordon@northlandchurch.net Dan Hardaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 dan.hardaway@northlandchurch.net Felipe Santos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7168 felipe.santos@northlandchurch.net Tim Wright. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1804 tim.wright@northlandchurch.net

PASTOR’S BIO Dr. Joel C. Hunter has served as Northland’s senior pastor since 1985. During Pastor Hunter’s tenure, Northland has grown from 200 faithful souls to a community of 20,000 that worships around the globe. An internationally respected evangelical leader, Dr. Hunter approaches today’s issues in a biblical and balanced manner, and has championed the cause of “Compassion Issues” found in Scripture, including pro-life concerns, justice, poverty and creation care. He serves on the boards of the World Evangelical Alliance (with 420 million constituents) and the National Association of Evangelicals (with 30 million members), and is regularly featured on local and national media outlets. A longtime bridge-builder who seeks common ground for the common good, he is a frequent consultant to U.S. agencies and served during the inaugural year on the U.S. president’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. He has been married to his best friend and ministry partner, Becky, since 1972. The Hunters are parents to three sons: Joshua, Joel and Isaac (1977-2013), and are in-laws to Lisa, Lizzy and Rhonda. The Hunters have six grandchildren: Noah, Jada, Ella, Lincoln, Luke and Ava (2004-2010).

Learn more about Pastor Hunter’s life in ministry at northlandchurch.net/joelhunter.

Stay informed about his involvement with current events at www.pastorjoelhunter.com.

ACCESS MINISTRIES We have programs and services for individuals with disabilities.

Find out more at northlandchurch.net/blogs/category/ access_ministries/.

Heather Subbert at heather.subbert@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1828

DISTRIBUTED SITES

WHOM DO I CONTACT IF:

MOUNT DORA SITE The Seventh-Day Adventist Church. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 a.m.

18440 Highway 441, Mount Dora, FL 32757 The church is on the south side of Highway 441. Look for the “Northland” sign.

Northland at Mount Dora HUB 17943 U.S. Highway 441, Mount Dora, FL 32757 Facebook.com . . . . www.facebook.com/northlandmountdora General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 Jeff Bell, Site Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7184 or jeff.bell@northlandchurch.net

I am in crisis?

Northland’s main line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000

OVIEDO SITE Reformed Theological Seminary. . . . . . . . . . . 9 and 11 a.m.

1231 Reformation Drive, Oviedo, FL 32765 The Seminary is located at the corner of Mitchell Hammock Road and Alafaya Woods Boulevard, just east of State Road 434 (Alafaya Trail).

Northland at Oviedo Community Center (NOCC) 561 E. Mitchell Hammock Road, #300, Oviedo, FL 32765 Oviedo Blog Website. . . . . . . . . . . northlandchurch.net/oviedo Facebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . www.facebook.com/northlandoviedo General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 Jeremy Jobson, Site Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-929-3053 or jeremy.jobson@northlandchurch.net

I am interested in a Care Ministry?

Elaine Harland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4002 or elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net

I want to seek counseling?

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

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

Judy Tillman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7149 or hospitalvisits@northlandchurch.net

I want to become a member?

Ruth Sapp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4039 or ruth.sapp@northlandchurch.net I have accepted Christ into my heart and wish to be baptized?

Sharon Ferreira (adult/student) . . . . . . . . 407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@northlandchurch.net

Diane Jones (infants–grade school). . . . . 407-949-7188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net I need information on Student Ministries?

Shaylynn Stoner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net

HOUSE CHURCHES Even though Northland is what could be called a “megachurch,” we are committed to helping others do church on as small a scale as a few people in a home. That means we want to bring resources and encouragement, and training for ministry to people where they live, and work and play. The house church allows that to happen anywhere in the world.

Visit northlandchurch.net/housechurch for an introductory video from Dr. Hunter which will help you learn more about starting a house church. For more videos on how to build a simple church, so that you can effectively gather with others to transform your community, visit www. doingchurchsimply.com.

DeLand, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 11 a.m.

Jeff and Cindy Reinertsen: jsrein1@gmail.com or 386-736-9746 Naples, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saturdays, 5 p.m.

Sam Lewis: samllewis@aol.com or 407-310-1719 Marco Island, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saturdays, 5 p.m.

Sam Lewis: samllewis@aol.com or 407-310-1719 Ocoee, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 9 a.m.

Marty McCoy: mmccoy@kostoandrotella.com or 407-733-5989 Ponce Inlet, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 9 a.m.

Joe and Donna Leonardo: josephleonardo@sprintmail.com or 386-236-8871 Salisbury, NC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 4:30 p.m.

Laurie and Tim Klaus: pianolauriek@yahoo.com or 704-636-5966 Utica, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 11 a.m.

Terri McDowell: terrilee.mcdowell@gmail.com or 845-332-6762 Venice, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 5 p.m.

Ron and Marcy Burth: marciabedford@yahoo.com or 941-493-6965

I need information about Children’s Ministries?

Debbie Blahnik. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .407-949-7162 or debbie.blahnik@northlandchurch.net I am interested in Distributed Journeys?

Patti Harshey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-0573 or patti.harshey@northlandchurch.net; or visit SomedayIsToday.net I want to help at Northland?

Rebecca Lang. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1807 volunteer@northlandchurch.net I want to get involved in a serve project?

Judy Head. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-388-5798 or judy.head@northlandchurch.net; or visit northlandchurch.net/serve I am getting married?

Sharon Ferreira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@northlandchurch.net I need to plan a funeral?

Sharon Ferreira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@northlandchurch.net I want to learn more about your Hispanic Ministry?

Quiero aprender más acerca de su Ministerio Hispano.

Ivan Portillo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1753 or ivan.portillo@northlandchurch.net

Anita Arce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-242-3642 or mrsclasdearce@gmail.com I have a special needs child or if I have special needs?

Heather Subbert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1828 or heather.subbert@northlandchurch.net I am facing an unforeseen/unexpected financial crisis and need guidance and resources?

LifeHope Info Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7151 Visit us online to submit an application: northlandchurch.net/lifehope Computer’s available in care center Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

I need information on jail/prison transition ministries?

Dale Cowart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7165 or dale.cowart@northlandchurch.net I need the Resource Advocate or FAO (Family Advocacy Office)?

Maria Penzes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-0554 or maria.penzes@northlandchurch.net