NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED
MAY 5-7, 2012
NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED Gathering for worship at sites in Central Florida, online and around the world. LONGWOOD AND ONLINE: Saturday at 5 p.m.; Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. , 5 p.m.; Monday at 7 p.m. MOUNT DORA: Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. | OVIEDO: Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m.
STUDENT MINISTRIES
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES • Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
• Connect with your middle school student: Check out Next Steps
Children’s Church during all worship services:
• LUGRox Saturdays, 6:30 p.m., The Rink, SMCC.
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
northlandchurch.net/ministries/category/children/
MIDDLE SCHOOL — northlandchurch.net/middleschool
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
short video and conversation starter to use with your student.
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten)
(Sermon Companion) at northlandchurch.net/middleschool. You’ll find a
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Kinect (Middle and High School) Sundays, 9 to 10 a.m.; and
• Children with Special Needs (Age 3 – Grade 5)
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m.
Children’s Church during 9 and 11 a.m. worship services:
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
• Axis Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m., RTS, Student Lounge.
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten)
• Evolve Sundays, during 11 a.m. service.
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 2 – Kindergarten)
• I Am Third Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., various locations (see
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
Children’s Church during 9 and 11 a.m. worship services:
HIGH SCHOOL — northlandchurch.net/highschool website for details)
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
• Servant Leadership Ministry We offer servant leadership training and opportunities to serve for 9th-graders (setup crew), 10th- to 12th-
New to Northland? Welcome!
Please tell us a little about yourself. Just drop this card in an offering box or stop by an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we’d love to get to know you!
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.
Name(s) ___________________________________________________________________________
WELCOME!
There are limitless opportunities to grow in God and connect with
and work crews).
ADULT MINISTRIES
graders (LUGRox captains) and college students (small group leaders
Respond or at northlandchurch.net.
• Kinect (Middle and High School) Sundays, 9 to 10 a.m.; and
projects, studies and more in this month’s issue of
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
others in and through Northland. Find classes, service
• Capernaum Last Friday of the month, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., SMCC
Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m.
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS • Axis Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m., RTS, Student Lounge.
We’re so glad you’re gathering in worship with us today! The mission and heartbeat 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 growing in Him. Join us!
______________________________________________________________________________________
E-mail______________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________
Phone
_____________________________________________________________________________
Which site are you attending? [ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] Other __________________________________________________________________________ I am a [ ] child [ ] high school student [ ] middle school student [ ] adult. [ ] I am a new believer. I recently trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. [ ] I would like to receive more information about Northland. 5/5-7/2012
Want to know more about Northland? Our website has hundreds of archived worship services, stories about the great work God is doing through Northland and ways for YOU to Be the Church Everywhere, Every Day.
northlandchurch.net
connect with us: Get “What’s Current”: northlandchurch.net/resources/newsletter/ facebook.com/northlandchurch twitter.com/northlandchurch Visit an Info Kiosk in the foyer. 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 407949-4000 with questions.
generous.northlandchurch.net
Financial Report — April 24 to 30, 2012 This Week
This Year to Date
Difference . . . . . (469,407)
Difference . . . . . . . . 6,520
Received . . . . . . 4,133,751
Received . . . . . . . 262,251
Need . . . . . . . . 4,603,158
Need . . . . . . . . . . 255,731
NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED
NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED
MAY 5-7, 2012
Gathering for worship at sites in Central Florida, online and around the world. LONGWOOD AND ONLINE: Saturday at 5 p.m.; Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. , 5 p.m.; Monday at 7 p.m. MOUNT DORA: Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. | OVIEDO: Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m.
STUDENT MINISTRIES
MIDDLE SCHOOL — northlandchurch.net/middleschool
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES northlandchurch.net/ministries/category/children/
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• LUGRox Saturdays, 6:30 p.m., The Rink, SMCC.
Children’s Church during all worship services:
• Connect with your middle school student: Check out Next Steps
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
(Sermon Companion) at northlandchurch.net/middleschool. You’ll find a
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten)
short video and conversation starter to use with your student.
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Children with Special Needs (Age 3 – Grade 5)
• Kinect (Middle and High School) Sundays, 9 to 10 a.m.; and
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m.
Children’s Church during 9 and 11 a.m. worship services:
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
• Evolve Sundays, during 11 a.m. service.
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten)
• Axis Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m., RTS, Student Lounge.
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
HIGH SCHOOL — northlandchurch.net/highschool
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS Children’s Church during 9 and 11 a.m. worship services:
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
• I Am Third Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., various locations (see
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 2 – Kindergarten)
website for details)
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
• Servant Leadership Ministry We offer servant leadership training and opportunities to serve for 9th-graders (setup crew), 10th- to 12th-
New to Northland? Welcome! Please tell us a little about yourself. Just drop this card in an offering box or stop by an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we’d love to get to know you! PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.
Name(s) ___________________________________________________________________________
WELCOME!
graders (LUGRox captains) and college students (small group leaders
ADULT MINISTRIES
and work crews).
There are limitless opportunities to grow in God and connect with
• Capernaum Last Friday of the month, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., SMCC
others in and through Northland. Find classes, service
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
projects, studies and more in this month’s issue of
• Kinect (Middle and High School) Sundays, 9 to 10 a.m.; and
Respond or at northlandchurch.net.
Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m.
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS • Axis Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m., RTS, Student Lounge.
We’re so glad you’re gathering in worship with us today! The mission and heartbeat 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 growing in Him. Join us!
______________________________________________________________________________________
E-mail______________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________
Phone
_____________________________________________________________________________
Which site are you attending?
Want to know more about Northland? Our website has hundreds of archived worship services, stories about the great work God is doing through Northland and ways for YOU to Be the Church Everywhere, Every Day.
northlandchurch.net
[ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] Other __________________________________________________________________________ I am a [ ] child [ ] high school student [ ] middle school student [ ] adult. [ ] I am a new believer. I recently trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. [ ] I would like to receive more information about Northland. 5/5-7/2012
connect with us: Get “What’s Current”: northlandchurch.net/resources/newsletter/ facebook.com/northlandchurch twitter.com/northlandchurch Visit an Info Kiosk in the foyer. 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 407949-4000 with questions.
generous.northlandchurch.net
Financial Report — April 24 to 30, 2012 This Week
This Year to Date
Need . . . . . . . . . . 255,731
Need . . . . . . . . 4,603,158
Received . . . . . . . 262,251
Received . . . . . . 4,133,751
Difference . . . . . . . . 6,520
Difference . . . . . (469,407)
What’s Current
RECONCILIATION WITH WHOM?
What’s happening at Northland? Plenty! Here’s a sampling of the many upcoming opportunities to respond to God.
A MESSAGE FROM DR. JOEL C. HUNTER, SENIOR PASTOR (Read about Pastor Joel at northlandchurch.net/joelhunter.)
SCRIPTURE FOCUS:
SERVE IN CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES
2 Corinthians 5:18-20 (NASB) Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
They need YOU!
Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
WORSHIP FOCUS:
Calling all those with a heart for children! We need friendly faces, crafty hands, willing teachers, storytellers and classroom buddies to help share the love of God with Northland’s kids!
Worship Christ today as our sacrifice. He endured the cross to pay our debt of sin, to reconcile us to God. He Himself is our Peace.
Ready to make an impact? Visit northlandchurch.net for an application!
BELONG SEMINAR
ADULT BAPTISMS
One-day Membership Seminar
Come to the Water! Sunday, May 20 at the Watkins’ home.
May 19, 8:30 a.m. at Longwood
At Northland, we don’t believe baptism is essential for salvation, BUT we do think it’s a wonderful expression of the Lordship of Christ in your life. If baptism is something you’ve never done before and would like to do, now’s the time!
Pastor Joel and other leadership share what it means to belong to Christ and to Northland! Child care is available. Register at northlandchurch.net.
Learn more at northlandchurch.net.
NOTES:
THINK ABOUT IT. Who are the people in your life, who have hurt you, with whom it is most difficult to reconcile? What is it that is standing in your way?
BE IN COMMUNITY.
Spark conversation in your group this week: This week we will wrap up our study of Jonah. What was Jonah’s response to God’s offer of reconciliation for the people of Nineveh? How do you identify with his response?
PRAY. Christ, You are our peace; those who are divided You have made one. You have broken down the barriers of separation by Your death and have built us up into one body, with You. To all who repent and believe You have promised reconciliation. Help us to live as people reconciled. Amen. —Adapted from The Worship Sourcebook
How would this story be different for Jonah, if he had admitted how much God had forgiven him, and reconciled with the believers in Nineveh?
Let Us Know!
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 an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out! PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.
Name(s) E-mail
__________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
Address
__________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Phone
____________________________________________________________________________
[ ] The above is an update. I am a [ ] child [ ] high school student [ ] middle school student [ ] 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
NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED
MAY 5-7, 2012
Gathering for worship at sites in Central Florida, online and around the world. LONGWOOD AND ONLINE: Saturday at 5 p.m.; Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. , 5 p.m.; Monday at 7 p.m. MOUNT DORA: Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. | OVIEDO: Sunday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m.
STUDENT MINISTRIES
MIDDLE SCHOOL — northlandchurch.net/middleschool
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES northlandchurch.net/ministries/category/children/
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• LUGRox Saturdays, 6:30 p.m., The Rink, SMCC.
Children’s Church during all worship services:
• Connect with your middle school student: Check out Next Steps
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
(Sermon Companion) at northlandchurch.net/middleschool. You’ll find a
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten)
short video and conversation starter to use with your student.
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Children with Special Needs (Age 3 – Grade 5)
• Kinect (Middle and High School) Sundays, 9 to 10 a.m.; and
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m.
Children’s Church during 9 and 11 a.m. worship services:
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
• Evolve Sundays, during 11 a.m. service.
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 3 – Kindergarten)
• Axis Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m., RTS, Student Lounge.
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
HIGH SCHOOL — northlandchurch.net/highschool
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS Children’s Church during 9 and 11 a.m. worship services:
LONGWOOD WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
• Grade School Classes (Grades 1 – 5)
• I Am Third Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., various locations (see
• Early Childhood Classes (Age 2 – Kindergarten)
website for details)
• Infant & Toddler Care (Infants – Age 2)
• Servant Leadership Ministry We offer servant leadership training and opportunities to serve for 9th-graders (setup crew), 10th- to 12th-
New to Northland? Welcome! Please tell us a little about yourself. Just drop this card in an offering box or stop by an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we’d love to get to know you! PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY.
Name(s) ___________________________________________________________________________
WELCOME!
graders (LUGRox captains) and college students (small group leaders
ADULT MINISTRIES
and work crews).
There are limitless opportunities to grow in God and connect with
• Capernaum Last Friday of the month, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., SMCC
others in and through Northland. Find classes, service
MOUNT DORA WEEKLY HAPPENINGS
projects, studies and more in this month’s issue of
• Kinect (Middle and High School) Sundays, 9 to 10 a.m.; and
Respond or at northlandchurch.net.
Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m.
OVIEDO WEEKLY HAPPENINGS • Axis Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m., RTS, Student Lounge.
We’re so glad you’re gathering in worship with us today! The mission and heartbeat 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 growing in Him. Join us!
______________________________________________________________________________________
E-mail______________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________
Phone
_____________________________________________________________________________
Which site are you attending?
Want to know more about Northland? Our website has hundreds of archived worship services, stories about the great work God is doing through Northland and ways for YOU to Be the Church Everywhere, Every Day.
northlandchurch.net
[ ] Longwood [ ] Mount Dora [ ] Oviedo [ ] Other __________________________________________________________________________ I am a [ ] child [ ] high school student [ ] middle school student [ ] adult. [ ] I am a new believer. I recently trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. [ ] I would like to receive more information about Northland. 5/5-7/2012
connect with us: Get “What’s Current”: northlandchurch.net/resources/newsletter/ facebook.com/northlandchurch twitter.com/northlandchurch Visit an Info Kiosk in the foyer. 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 407949-4000 with questions.
generous.northlandchurch.net
Financial Report — April 24 to 30, 2012 This Week
This Year to Date
Need . . . . . . . . . . 255,731
Need . . . . . . . . 4,603,158
Received . . . . . . . 262,251
Received . . . . . . 4,133,751
Difference . . . . . . . . 6,520
Difference . . . . . (469,407)
maY 2012
www.northlandchurch.net
Respond. Be the chURch.
EldErS at NorThlaNd did you know that we have more than 70 elders commissioned to serve God by serving YoU? Learn more about who they are and what they do on page 3!
EVERY WHERE. eVeRY daY.
SErVE IN CHILDREN’s MiNiSTriES
ShariNG LIFE’s SToriES
have a heart for children? we need YoU to help lead them into relationship with God. Join the team!
learn and practice practical ways to share your faith. Your story matters, and someone needs to hear it!
Learn more and find an application at northlandchurch. net/ministry/childrens_church/
Class details on page 7.
May 30, 7 p.m. at longwood
Respond to God
GLoRIFy GoD FoR WHo HE Is aND WHat HE Has DoNE.
WoRsHIP God: GLoRIFY God FoR Who he Is and What he has done. “A time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.” – Jesus Christ (John 4:23, NIV) worship.northlandchurch.net
REaD tHE BIBLe: stUdY God’s messaGe to YoU oFten. “I am watching over My word to perform it.” – God (Jeremiah 1:12, NASB) bible.northlandchurch.net
pRaY: enGaGe In a conVeRsatIon WIth God. “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer.” – Peter, an eyewitness (1 Peter 3:12, NIV) pray.northlandchurch.net
seRVe otHERs otHERs:: meet the needs oF the peopLe aRoUnd YoU. “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” – Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:40, NIV) serve.northlandchurch.net
LIVE GeneRoUsLY: GIVe What God’s GIVen YoU. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:21, NASB) generous.northlandchurch.net
BE IN commUnItY: FosteR enVIRonments FoR ReLatIonshIp.
How is your daily life — your unique roles and responsibilities — a form of worship?
“All men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” – Jesus Christ (John 13:35, NIV) community.northlandchurch.net
sHaRE yoUR stoRY: teLL otheRs What God Is doInG In YoUR LIFe. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” – Peter, an eyewitness (1 Peter 3:15, NIV) share.northlandchurch.net
Northland Ordains Governing Elders BY DR. KEVIN URICHKO
O
n April 15, Northland ordained Dale Burket as our newest governing elder. You’re most likely to catch him as one of the guitarists on our worship team. Dale and his wife, Pat, have attended Northland since 1991, with involvement in music, Children’s Ministries and small groups. Because of their love of music and teaching, both also are involved in leadership at a local youth orchestra program involving several hundred children. Their three grown sons also have been an active part of the Northland community. Dale works as a lawyer and partner at Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A., in Orlando. Also, Tim Wright has returned to our governing elder board. Tim and his wife, Kim, are proud grandparents. Along with their three grown sons and one daughter, they run several McDonald’s Restaurants in Central Florida. Tim has a passion Dale Burket for teaching people about the love of God according to 1 Corinthians 13. He already has served one six-year term as a governing elder, as well as being involved in several other ministries at Northland. Earlier this year, 18 men were commissioned to the role of elder at Northland. Dr. Rick Baxley, Ryan Brennan, Bob Case, Paul DePalma, Don Gagnon, Jack Gritter, Robert Johnson, Jeff Knipe, Eric Linares, Alex Morales, David Mullen, Mamdouh Nasr, Ray Scott, Mike Sheffey, Josh Smith, Brian Walsh, Cooper Wise and Keith Wynsma all have responded to God’s call on their lives to Tim Wright serve the church in this unique way. They join more than fifty other elders who are currently ministering in the Northland community. God has used elders to bless, lead and guard His people throughout history. Examples abound in both the Old and New Testaments of people
who exercised wisdom and maturity to equip people to live in the earthly manifestation of God’s Kingdom. While Christ is the Head of the church (Ephesians 5:23), elders are to oversee and shepherd the gathering of people in a particular area (1 Peter 5:1-2; Acts 20:28). They are involved in teaching the Bible (1 Timothy 5:17), exhorting believers toward godly living (1 Thessalonians 5:14-15), praying for those who are sick (James 5:14), disciplining those who are unrepentant (Matthew 18:17), and guarding the church from false doctrine (Acts 20:28, 31).
God has used elders to bless, lead and guard his people throughout history. Qualifications and characteristics of elders are listed in Titus 1:6-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7. These passages paint a picture of maturity in Christ to which all believers are called. We may not all serve in the local church as an elder, but the Lord is working in our lives to bring about Christlikeness as described therein: above reproach, faithful, exercising good stewardship, hospitable, self-controlled, and holy, and not overbearing, quarrelsome, dishonest, violent or a lover of money, for example. Our elders serve in mutual accountability—no individual elder speaks for the church unless the elders have agreed upon a decision or direction and he is speaking on behalf of the whole group. The elders meet together regularly for prayer in order to discern the Lord’s will in church matters and specific questions or needs. We are called as followers of Christ to submit to our elders (1 Peter 5:5; Hebrews 13:17), to respect them by living at peace (1 Thessalonians 5:1213), and to pray for all our leaders (Hebrews 13:18). Since these are humble men, they do not draw attention to themselves, but are available when called upon. If you have a need for prayer, godly counsel, encouragement in the faith or clarification on biblical teaching, please connect with an elder on our website or after any worship service. Nine Northland elders serve in a governing office for up to a sixyear term. See page 11 for a list of our current governing elders. These
Continued on page 10.
4
seRVe GLoBaLLY
Teams are filling up! Grab your spot! Go on a DISTRIBUTED JOURNEY! Browse short-term trips and apply at somedayistoday.net.
The distributed church – Training pastors in South Sudan in april BY DR. DAN LACICH
J
ust days before we boarded a plane for South Sudan, another fight broke out along the border between Sudan and South Sudan. Three days and five flights later, we arrived in Malakal, a border town that just a few months ago witnessed two days of street fighting between rebel infiltrators from the North and South Sudanese militia. It was just one more of countless such battles that have taken place during the decades-long civil war that ended with independence for South Sudan in July 2011. The war, which claimed more than 2 million lives, has officially ended, but the fighting has not. For three days in Malakal, Pastor Gus Davies, John Tardonia, Alan Carpenter and I had the blessed honor of working with some of the most courageous and gracious people I have ever met. I have been to numerous countries over the last several years and encountered people in all sorts of situations. But never have I met a group of people who have endured so much, for so long, with such grace, courage and even joy. The pastors and leaders we are working with in Sudan and South Sudan have known nothing but war their entire lives. They all know people, including family members, who are among the 2 million dead. Yet they see nothing but opportunities to love their neighbors and their enemies. Often those two groups, neighbor and enemy, are one and the same. It seems that they view this fact as being convenient. Instead of needing to love a neighbor and an enemy, they get to love both in one person, half the effort. Not only is the war part of daily life, but so is poverty, sickness and deprivations that we in the West would find shocking. Consider two numbers. First, 95 percent of South Sudanese will never finish primary school, or what we call elementary school. Second, 50 out of every 1,000 women giving birth will die doing so. One person told us,
“If you are sick and go to the hospital, you will die. If you are healthy and go to the hospital, you will get sick and then you will die.” Yet as these wonderful people speak of the hardships in their lives, they do so with a smile as they talk about all the doors such hardship opens for sharing the gospel and loving the needy. They don’t seem to notice that they are among the needy. At Northland church, we talk about the church distributed. By that, we mean every follower of Christ takes the church with him or her, everywhere, every day, and that a gathering of two or three people in Jesus’ name is the church gathered. You don’t need buildings to love and serve people for Jesus, and you can start churches anywhere — in a home, a business, under a tree. In Malakal, we completed the second level of distributed church training for 74 pastors and leaders. It is part of our effort to be the catalyst for 1 million new churches worldwide over the next 10 years. In the five months since these pastors attended level 1, nearly 1,000 people have come to faith in Christ because of their efforts, and churches are being started in homes and numerous other locations. Among the trainees were 14 from Sudan. At the end of the training, we gathered them together to pray for them as they were returning north to an uncertain future. There was no fear, anxiety or consternation in any of them, only the anticipatory joy of heading back into the lion’s den in order to conquer the lion with the love of Christ. One of them told me of being threatened with his life on numerous occasions. With a laugh, he told me that his response is always the same. “I say to them, ‘If you kill me, I just get to go and be with Jesus in heaven that much more quickly.’” I know he says it with all sincerity and with a joyous smile on his face. The response is always the same. They either walk away or get this puzzled look on their face, which opens the door to talking about the Jesus he loves so deeply. During the time in Malakal, we also met with the head of the Roman Catholic Diocese, the Anglican bishop, the moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Sudan, and the minister of health for Upper Nile State. Each of them demonstrated the same courage, faith and joy that had become so common in our time there. All four are desperate for us to work with them in changing the culture of South Sudan. From training their pastors—of the 475 Presbyterian pastors, less than 40 percent are trained—to providing medical care and clean water, the doors are wide open for ministry that will glorify God and change lives. From Malakal, we traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, to conduct three days of Training the Trainer. Fourteen pastors from Sudan, South Sudan, Burundi and Kenya came together to be trained as trainers in distributed church planting and ministry.
You don’t need buildings to love and serve people for Jesus, and you can start churches anywhere—in a home, a business, under a tree.
One of many South Sudanese pastors who inspired me with his joy.
These wonderful saints are now back in their home countries, carrying out their plans to train more pastors and leaders. In this way, we are seeing not just an addition to the church, but a multiplying movement. In the next 12 months, those pastors will train more leaders than we have done in the last 18. Their goal is 375 more pastors trained and 675 new churches. Of course, we, too, will continue to train in new countries. Uganda and Sierra Leone are next on the list. Since returning to Florida, several people have asked if we were frightened to be there. The fighting going on was about 100 miles from Malakal. Pastor Gus and I have spoken often on this subject, and the conclusion is always the same. When you know that God wants you to be someplace, then the safest place you can be is in that place. The most dangerous place you can be is someplace, anyplace, else. That doesn’t mean there is no danger. Things could go badly, quickly. But that is where one must trust that the Lord of the universe, who called you to that place, has a better perspective than you do. Additionally, the South Sudanese are not nameless, anonymous people. The pastors we trained are our brothers and sisters in Christ. They are family. Our being there, if only for a few days, was a huge encouragement to them. They were reminded that they were not alone, that Christians from as far away as Florida were standing with them in the furtherance of the gospel and the changing of the world. How could we possibly stay home in our comfort, knowing that family needs us? A few days of no running water, 100-plus-degree temperatures with no air conditioning, and bed bugs that made my hands look like I had stuck them in a fire ant mound was not even worth fretting over if it meant we were able to witness the grace and courage of these amazing saints.
Pastors enjoy a tea break in Malakal, South Sudan. PrAY FOr tHEM. Pray for Sudan and South Sudan. Pray that these pastors and leaders are able to change the culture and change their world. Pray that God will indeed supply all they need through the riches available in Christ Jesus, our Lord. When you hear a news report or read a magazine article that mentions Sudan and South Sudan, don’t just gloss over it because it is over there, somewhere. Instead, let that be the reminder that you, too, are connected with people there. Stop your reading, if only for a moment, and ask God to continue to bless them with grace and courage. While you are at it, ask Him to increase those things in your life, too.
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seRVe LocaLLY Northland’s disaster response Team Needs You! Connect on Facebook!
BY DEB LIGHTFOOT
B
ack in 2004, through my job, I served on a team in Mississippi the day after Katrina made landfall. No one was left unaffected by the devastation — victims and responders alike. Those who lost everything said they were blessed by our help, but I learned firsthand that being in a position to render assistance is the true blessing. Years later, in 2010, I spent a week in Haiti with Northland’s Disaster Response Team after the catastrophic earthquake and aftershocks, and that lesson was reinforced. I’m amazed by the number of people who are willing to go to any length to be there when others are faced with the “worst day” of their lives. Planning and training are integral parts of disaster response team preparations. Whether responding to flooding near Lake Monroe or to tornadoes in Alabama, making a difference in people’s lives becomes more seamless and efficient as Northland’s team members get to know one another through drills, exercises, and local outreach events —these are especially important for those who have willing hands but lack experience responding to disasters. Training helps us to be a blessing to those in the midst of traumatic times rather than adding to the confusion and stress. We are currently recruiting new team members, and you’re invited to join! There are four main disaster response teams from which to choose: kitchen, medical, emotional and spiritual, and emergency relief. It’s possible to be a member of multiple teams, and there is constant crosstraining to ensure that we can serve in any capacity needed. Training events take place every month, culminating in a simulated response exercise for all team members.
Also, Northland is the proud owner of a new customdesigned kitchen trailer to be deployed during disasters and for community outreach. This self-contained kitchen has the ability to go into disaster-hit areas and immediately serve food to victims and responders alike … thousands of meals per day! Kitchen staff, servers and cleanup crew members are all needed to run the trailer. All food handlers are required to complete a food-safety class, participate in field training, and serve at one of the monthly outreach activities. If you would like to be a part of Northland’s Disaster Response Team, the first step is to attend the orientation session May 19. I hope you’ll come and learn more about this amazing ministry. rESPOND: Attend the Disaster Response Team orientation on Saturday, May 19, from 7:30 to 11 a.m. Details: northlandchurch.net/calendar/details/Disaster_ Response_Orientation
Northland’s Serve projects are now on Facebook. View pictures from recent events, and find out about opportunities to serve locally and at Northland on our Facebook page! Just search for Northland Serve!
Northland serve is on twitter. Follow us, and get the latest on upcoming projects! twitter.com/#!/northlandserve
UpcomInG seRVIce oppoRtUnItIes May 12 . . . . . . . . .downtown homeless Ministry
Disaster Response Weekend at Northland a few years ago showed congregants how to be prepared for an emergency.
Provide food, clothing and other items for the needy in Orlando. Participate in worship, devotion and ministering to the homeless.
May 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Give Kids the world Create magical memories for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families by serving dinner to them.
May 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ronald Mcdonald house Prepare dinner and serve it to families of sick children staying at the Ronald McDonald House.
May 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . harvest Time international Help sort, stack, pack and organize supplies for local families in need and for shipping packages internationally during times of need.
May 26 . . . . . . . . .downtown homeless Ministry Provide food, clothing and other items for the needy in Orlando. Participate in worship, devotion and ministering to the homeless.
to register for or to find out more about these and other serve projects, visit
serve.northlandchurch.net. Dana DeVries at 407-949-7156 or dana.devries@ northlandchurch.net
Exercise in Haiti teaches Citizen Emergency Response Training with the Haitian people.
Utilizing his training, this team member comforts the victim of this mock disaster.
Mark Your calendar! Battle of the Bands Friday, May 4, 7 p.m., The Rink.
For high school bands. Sign up by e-mailing kailey.copeland@northlandchurch.net. Music demo and lyrics are due by April 4. More information is available at facebook.com/NorthlandRink.
Baccalaureate 2012 Wednesday, May 23, 7 p.m., The Rink.
In honor of the graduating class of 2012, Student Ministries will be hosting Baccalaureate for seniors and their families and friends. This is open to any graduating senior wanting to participate. Due by May 2 from each senior: One baby picture and one graduation picture, and any other pictures of graduating seniors you may have from any of our retreats or events. Details at northlandchurch.net/ highschool.
MS lock-in
Friday, May 19 to Saturday, May 20, The Rink
Check-in: 9 p.m. for 6th- to 7th-graders 8 p.m. for 8th-graders Pick-up: 8 a.m. Register online at northlandchurch.net/middleschool
Family Barbecue
Saturday, June 9, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink
Hear more about the fantastic summer Student Ministries has planned for students and their families, and meet the summer interns. Bring a dish to share and drinks for your family. Register at northlandchurch.net/highschool or northlandchurch. net/middleschool.
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Mark Your calendar!
stUdent mInIstRIes
ACTIVATING STUDENTS TO MAKE KINGDOM NOISE. What Is maKInG KInGdom noIse? IT’S THE LOVE OF JESUS IN ACTION.
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 (Last LUGRox is May 12) Saturdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink. LUGRox is an evening full of high energy, high impact and just plain fun! Students will find thrilling games, solid teaching, rockin’ worship and friendconnecting small groups. Optional dinner (two slices of pizza, chips and lemonade) is available for $3. t-n-t (Summer Program) Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 12 to August 2, 1 to 5 p.m., The Rink. Open to all incoming middle school students. Come and hang out at The Rink with the summer interns and Student Ministries staff for a summer of awesome fun and solid teaching. MIDDlE SCHOOl DOulOS Sundays, 11 a.m., The Rink. Middle School Doulos will help students connect what they experience in worship service to their daily lives.
tAKE It HOME At Northland, we believe that parents are designed to be the primary spiritual leaders in their student’s life. There are a couple of tools on our middle school website we would like to make parents aware of: LUGRox Companion Series Looking for a way to connect with your student regarding what was covered at LUGRox? Check out the parents conversation starter (designed for parents to help deepen their relationship with their student and encourage spiritual growth) and the full message shared at LUG. Next Steps (Sermon Companion Series) Looking for a way to connect with your middle school student regarding this weekend’s message? Check out the Next Steps weekly video and other tools to use with your student.
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 (Last I AM THIRD is May 16) First Wednesday of the month, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Subsequent
Wednesdays, Distributed Home Groups (See website for locations). SuMMEr I AM tHIrD (In the Rink), June 13 to August 1. Servant leadership Ministry We offer servant leadership training and opportunities to serve for 9th-graders (setup crew), 10th- to 12th-graders (LUGRox captains) and college students (small group leaders and work crews). northlandchurch.net/highschool
ACCESS MINIStrIES FOr StuDENtS Young life Capernaum Last Friday of each month, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. An evening for teens with special needs that includes worship, dinner, fun and an opportunity to grow in faith! TEENS, volunteer to serve at Capernaum. Laura Lee Wright at 407-937-0549 or lauralee. wright@northlandchurch.net
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 ($2 donation), Bible study and small group connection. Michael Walker at michael.walker@ northlandchurch.net
chILdRen’s mInIstRIes
teacher training
HOW CAN THEY CALL ON HIM TO SAVE THEM … hoW can theY BeLIeVe … UNLESS SOMEONE TELLS THEM? —ROMANS 10:14 (NLT)
Help teach this next generation who God is and what He has done by joining the Children’s Ministries team. Teachers and helpers are needed. All the materials are provided, and no experience is needed. Debbie Blahnik at 407-949-7162 or debbie.blahnik@ northlandchurch.net
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 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
5th-Grade Induction Ceremony 2012
Worship in the Arts Camp
Monday, May 14, 6 to 9 p.m.
5th-Grade JumpStart
Saturday, May 19, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., pool party off-site Get to know other fifth-graders and some of our middle school leaders. You won’t want to miss out, so mark your calendar. and RSVP: Julie Meeker at julie.meeker@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7153
Steps for Young Believers (Grades 2 to 5) and their Parents
Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. — Step 1: June 6 to 27; Step 2: July 11 to August 8. More details on page 7. and registration: Diane Jones at diane.jones@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7188
1st-Grade Orientation
Sunday, June 3, 3 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. It’s time for our kindergarteners to leave early childhood ministry and move to the grade school ministry! To help with this transition, you and your child will get a tour of the classrooms and worship room, and meet the first-grade teachers and leaders. Teri Grayson at 407-949-4014 or teri.grayson@ northlandchurch.net
Saturday, June 2, 6:45 p.m. Northland at Longwood, Sanctuary Come and encourage the children preparing to enter sixthgrade as they enter a new season in their lives. To register your fifth-grade, soon-to-be-sixth-grade, child, contact Julie Meeker at julie.meeker@northlandchurch.net or 407-9497153.
June 25-29, for children grades 4-8.
The camp provides an encouraging environment for one week of instruction in the disciplines of singing, dance, visual arts and spiritual growth. Professional artists within the Northland community working alongside worship interns will provide instruction and mentoring. and registration: northlandchurch.net/calendar/details/worship_in_the_ arts_camp_2012/
Promotion Weekend
VoLUnteeR WIth the chILdRen’s mInIstRIes.
All children move up to the next age group and grade level.
You can do this!
June 9-11
Learn more and find an application at northlandchurch.net/ ministry/childrens_church/
Ways to Respond Baptisms
Adult Baptisms Sunday, May 20, 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, May 19, 7 p.m., room 4206. Child care is available upon request. Diane Jones at 407-949-7188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net
Bible Studies adultS Discipleship Group Wednesdays, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Welcome Center. Study for new believers and those who want to grow in their faith using the book of John. Bob Ek at bobpatek30@aol.com Evening Prayer Group Thursdays, 6 to 7 p.m., prayer room. Elaine Harland at 407-949-4002 or elaine. harland@northlandchurch.net Genesis • Sundays, through August 26, 9 a.m., room 4206. • Wednesdays, through August 29, 7 p.m., room 2211, Admin Wing. This foundational book of the Bible sets the stage for all that comes after. Join us for an in-depth look at what the Bible says about our existence, our purpose, our relationship with God, the origin of sin, the first promise of a Messiah and much more. Jamila Millette at jamila.millette@northlandchurch. net or 407-937-1832 Gospel of John Bible Study Sundays, 10:45 a.m., rooms 4206-07. Discover more about the person of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and learn more about who God is. Come early for refreshments and fellowship. John and Carolyn Jones at 407-831-5822 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. Child care is available with a reservation; to Linda Campbell at linda. campbell@northlandchurch.net. Tim and Michelle Kutcher at tim.kutcher@gmail.com
MEN Hanging Out With Jesus Tuesdays, 6:45 to 8 a.m., room 1118, Student Ministries and Care Center. Stories from the Gospels, by Patrick Morley and Man in the Mirror. Bob Shoemaker at bobshoemaker@mindspring.com or 407599-3132
There are limitless opportunities to grow in God and connect with others in and through Northland. Here are some great places to start!
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 Leo Carrier at minutes of prayer. leo@carrierinsurance.com
woMEN Book of Daniel, by Beth Moore This 12-week Bible study provides words of prophecy and encouragement as we face life’s difficult challenges and live lives of integrity. Workbook is available in the Northland Bookstore for $16.95. • Mondays, through May 21, 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Cherrie Rowe at 407-322-6850, or Anne Sullivan at 407332-8318 or annesullivan@cfl.rr.com • Tuesdays, through May 22, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Cherrie Rowe at 407322-6850, or Marlene Ross at 407-8330094 or rossduo@cfl.rr.com
Classes & Training Check the Northland website (northlandchurch.net/classes/) for the most up to date information on all classes.
ADULTS The Art of Marriage Weekend Friday, May 25, 7 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, May 26, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. Understand the beauty of God’s design for your marriage. Cost for two workbooks: $50 at the Northland Bookstore. Register at northlandchurch.net/classes. Child care is not available. Rick and Jolene Burns at jburns@mycbfl.com or 407462-5130 Belong/Membership Opportunities • One-day seminar: Saturday, May 19, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., The Rink. Hear Pastor Joel and other senior leaders describe what it means to belong to Christ and to Northland. Child care is available. Ruth Sapp at ruth.sapp@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4039 • Online: Anytime at northlandchurch.net/ series/belong_study/ Buddy Break Training Monday May 7, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., room 2211. Training of volunteers for our Buddy Break once-a-month respite program for children with special needs. Debbie Grindstaff at debbie.grindstaff@ northlandchurch.net or 407-937-1828 Courageous Study for Couples Thursdays, May 10 to 30, 7 to 8:30 p.m., rooms 4206-07. Explore principles of responsively, priorities, legacy, and faith from the film Courageous. Workbook available at the Northland Bookstore for $6.99. Child care: Linda Campbell at linda.campbell@ northlandchurch.net. Tom DeWitt at thomashdewitt@gmail.com Healthy 100 Sundays, through June 24, 9 to 10:30 a.m., rooms 4209-10. Learn to trust God, learn the benefits of faith, and strengthen your interpersonal relationships while developing a positive, energetic outlook and nutritious
diet for great health. Register by April 15. The Workbook and Small Group Study Guide are $8 (available in class), and the fee for class is $5. Child care is available by contacting Linda Campbell at linda.campbell@ Jerry Corey at 407northlandchurch.net. 332-7452 orruthjerr@hotmail.com
life of Christ. Baptism offered at end of course. • STEP 3—LIVING BY THE BOOK, “C-ING” MY WAY THROUGH THE BIBLE: Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8 p.m., TBD. Focus: to develop skills in exploring the Bible.
Immigration Study Thursdays, June 7 to July 19, 7 to 8:30 p.m., rooms 4213-17. Facilitated by Pastor Gus Davies. This study will explore immigration issues, even though they are complicated, controversial and emotional. We will discover how, as the church, we can begin intentionally loving our immigrant neighbors by learning about them. Materials for this class are Matthew Soerens and Jenny Hwang’s Welcoming the Stranger, available in Northland’s bookstore for $11.25, and its companion workbook. Child care is available with registration to Linda Campbell at linda. campbell@northlandchurch.net. Registration: northlandchurch.net/classes. Laura Young at 407-949-7165 or laura.young@ northlandchurch.net
MEN
Marriage Oneness (FamilyLife) Wednesdays, May 9 through June 27, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 4206-07. Learn and practice practical ways to love better, connect better and be better—together in your marriage. Cost: $50 for two workbooks in the Northland Bookstore. Register at northlandchurch.net/ classes. Child care is available by contacting Linda Campbell at linda.campbell@ northlandchurch.net. Rick and Jolene Burns at jburns@mycbfl.com or 407-4625130 Motivational Gifts Seminar Taught by Teresa McCaskill Friday, May 4, 7 to 9 p.m., and Saturday, May 5, 9 a.m. to noon, rooms 4213-17. Do you know that God created you with a special connection to His very nature? Your identity is in Him, and He has created you with a unique motivation that defines how you connect to Him and others. If you would like to discover how God has uniquely wired you, join us for this seminar. Cost for the class: $5. Child care is not available. Space is limited! To sign up, go to northlandchurch. net/classes/ and join the group! Barbara Olsen at barbara.olsen@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7183 Sharing Life’s Stories Wednesday, May 30, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 4209-10. Learn simple and practical ways of sharing your faith by sharing your life stories in natural and nonthreatening ways. Child care is available by registration to linda. campbell@northlandchurch.net. Registration: northlandchurch.net/classes. Jamila Millette at jamila.millette@northlandchurch.net
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. Diane Jones at 407-949-7188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net • STEP 1—BECOMING A PART OF GOD’S FAMILY: Wednesdays, June 6 to 27, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Focus: Salvation and assurance. Includes Communion instruction. • STEP 2—THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: Wednesdays, July 11 to August 8, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Focus: Jesus’ Life A-Z, a basic discipleship theme and learning about the
Becoming a Man Sundays, May 6 through June 17, 6:30 to 8 p.m., rooms 4209-10. A Father and Son Journey Together gives dads and sons (ages 16 to 19) the opportunity to explore together what real manhood is. Cost for materials: 2 for $20 (available at Northland’s bookstore). Tom Horvath at 407-260-1473 or tom@ tomhorvath.com Courageous Group Study Wednesdays, May 9 to 30, 7 p.m., rooms 4213-15. This is a four-week study based on the bold fatherhood and family principles in the film Courageous. Areas of focus are responsibility, priorities, legacy and faith. Workbook available at the Northland Bookstore for $6.99. Bob Keiderling at bob.keiderling@northlandchurch.net Men’s Fraternity: The Quest for Authentic Manhood Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8 a.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. What does it take to be a real man? This course answers your questions, offers a clear definition of manhood and challenges you to develop your own personalized manhood plan. The workbook is available in Northland’s bookstore or in class for $12. and registration: Robert Diacheysn at robert. diacheysn@northlandchurch.net or 407-9209655, or Rich Gailey at gaileyr@bellsouth.net or 407-595-7447
woMEN Lose It for Life, by Steve Arterburn Mondays, June 4 through July 30, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., room 4205. Develop a new approach to life, to eating and living healthy and free! Space is limited. Registration is required; $5 fee. Child care is available by reservation. Books are available at Northland’s bookstore for $14.25. and registration: Mary Lou Caskey at maryloucaskey@gmail.com New Believers Class for Women Sundays, May 6 through May 27, 5 to 6:15 p.m., room 4205. This class is for all women who want to grow in intimacy with Christ and become empowered in their walk. For child care reservations, contact Linda Campbell at linda.campbell@northlandchurch.net. Registration fee for materials: $5. Kari Maggard at 407-359-2799 or karimaggard@ gmail.com
Groups CARE GROUPS adults Celebrate Recovery Fridays, 7 to 9 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. Gain freedom from life’s hurts, hangups 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,
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Women’s Relationship Addiction, Women’s Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse and Eating Disorders for Women. Laurie Jean Harrington at celebraterecovery@ northlandchurch.net or 407-927-4393
and recovery from fantasy, romance, love and sex/pornography addiction. For child care reservations contact Linda Campbell at 407937-1757. Suzanne Rucker at 407-9679313 or LifeCounselingSolutions@gmail.com
Coping with Addictions/Codependency His Way Thursdays, 7 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. A Christcentered, 12-step program dealing with issues such as alcohol, drugs, relationships, food, sexual addictions, codependency and issues affecting adult children of addiction. Child care is available. His Way, Frank Turner at 407-599-9770
Women’s Healing Ministry Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 1115. 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
DivorceCare Tuesdays, call for time and location. New session begins May 8. 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. Cost: $5, and $19 for the book (available in the Bookstore). Child care available. Donna Delzingaro at 407-937-1749 or divorcecare@ northlandchurch.net
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.
PRAXIS (Conquering Fear, Anger, Anxiety) Tuesdays, 7:15 p.m., rooms 5106-07. Conquer fear, anger and anxiety through biblical principles. Child care is available. Skye Engel at 407-834-3158 PeaceSeekers This ministry takes the biblical approach to handling all levels and types of conflict and making a difference in relationships. Mediation and biblical conflict coaching are available. Rich Arndt at 407-221-8955 or volvoom@gmail.com Support for the Separated Tuesdays, call for location. New session begins May 8. Support group for those who are separated with court papers pending, for healing, hope and reconciliation in the Lord. Cost: $5, and $19 for the book (available in the Northland Bookstore). Child care available. Assessment required. Donna Delzingaro at 407-937-1749
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 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. Single Parent Ministry Wednesday, May 16, 7 to 9 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. Space is limited, so registration is required. For child care contact Linda Campbell at linda.campbell@northlandchurch.net. and registration: Elaine Harland at 407-949-4002 or elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net 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
COMMUNITY GROUPS
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 Prayer Group Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., room 1116, Student Ministries and Care Center. Jean Sherwood at 407-796-4705
Special Interest Groups 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@ trubromance.com Buddy Break Saturday, May 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Early Childhood Wing and Children’s Worship Wing. Three hours of free respite for parents and caregivers of special needs children. Drop off your child with our trained volunteers. Heather Subbert at 407-9371828 or heather.subbert@northlandchurch. net. Children of Elderly Parents Thursday, May 3, 7 p.m., room 4204. Join us for an introductory meeting for those who are caring for elderly parents. The purpose of this meeting is to encourage one another and explore future options for meeting together! Bob Keiderling at bob.keiderling@ northlandchurch.net Common Ground Adult Ministry (Ages 25-45) Mondays, 7:15 to 8:15 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Build authentic Christian community, grow spiritually mature and affect the surrounding community with Christ’s love, reflected by serving God. Child care available upon request. Susan Perry at commonground@ northlandchurch.net or 407-878-5599 Divine Reflection Art Group Second Thursday of each month, 7 to 9 p.m., rooms 5108-9, Children’s Worship Wing. Join other artists to reflect God’s truth and beauty through the visual arts. Laura Bates at carpearte@aol.com or 407-622-6873
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 Moms4Moms Get connected with other moms for friendship and encouragement through meetings and playgroup activities. Registration required. Tiana Bouley at tiana.bouley@gmail.com or visit northlandmoms4moms.com • Moms4Moms Book Club Sunday, May 20, 6 p.m., Fellowship Hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. This month’s book: The Screwtape Letters, by C.S. Lewis Laura Pinckard at laura. pinckard@northlandchurch.net or 407-9371831 Motorcycle Group Saturday, May 5, 9:30 a.m., call for location. The group will meet at 9:30 a.m. and depart at 10 for a Cruise to the Cape. They will be cruising through Orange, Brevard and Seminole counties. Destination Port Canaveral for lunch on the water by the cruise port. Experienced riders only the group will be traveling at highway speeds. Ride is weather permitting. Lori Landers at 386-668-9077 Single Purpose (Singles age 35 and up) Fourth Sunday of each month, 3 p.m., rooms 4206-07. Join us for fellowship and new and exciting monthly studies to help us grow in our faith! Current study is Balancing Life’s Demands, by Chip Ingram. Attend, or e-mail to find out more about weekly small groups. Dave Mullen at Singlepurpose7@ gmail.com or www.meetup.com/oacs08/ Northland en Español Monthly Gathering Third Friday of each month, 7 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. Bring a dish to share and any Spanish-speaking family and friends. Child care is available by contacting ivan.portillo@ northlandchurch.net or by calling Ivan at 407949-4000 Northland en Español Reunión Mensual Nos reunimos el tercer viernes de cada mes, 7 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. Traiga un plato para compartir y traiga su familia y amigos que hablan español. Cuidado de niños está disponible contactando ivan.portillo@ northlandchurch.net o llamando Ivan al 407949-4000 Softball Join other Christian men and women on this adult coed team or the men’s team to compete in local leagues. www.nlsoftball. com or northlandsoftball@gmail.com Spanish Ministry Sundays, 9 and 11 a.m. services. Spanish interpretation is avaliable online and listening devices are available at the Welcome Center. Join the Facebook page at www. facebook.com/northlandespanol. Ivan Portillo at 407-937-0549 or ivan.portillo@ northlandchurch.net 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
Special Events Courageous Movie (Free Showing) Saturday, May 5, 6:45 p.m., sanctuary. Experience this movie, and see how four courageous men live their lives and raise their children in a God-honoring way. Child care is not available. Bob Keiderling at bob. keiderling@northlandchurch.net The heART of Theater: An Evening of Broadway! Thursday, May 10, 7:30 to 9 p.m.; and Friday, May 11, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Sanctuary. Tickets are just $10 (plus a $2 processing fee per ticket.) Children ages 3 and under are free. All are invited to this family event! The show features a 200-plus voice choir, 50-piece orchestra, along with children and youth choirs. (?) Sarah Mattingly at sarah. mattingly@northlandchurch.net
Serve at Northland Questions about serving at Northland? serve@northlandchurch.net or 407-9494000 or serve.northlandchurch.net 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 407-9497162 Congregational Care Call Center Weekday volunteers are needed for this teleministry. No prior phone experience necessary, just a passion to connect with God’s people. You will be trained. Flexible hours. Donna Thornton at donna.thornton@northlandchurch. net or 407-937-0567 Communion Servers Communion servers are needed the first weekend of each month. Training provided. Lori Holton at communion@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4000 Finance Team Volunteer to serve on Tuesdays between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. as cash counters or data entry team members. Do you have any banking or accounting knowledge and feel the call to share those gifts by serving with us? Donna Gagnon at 407-937-0565 or donna.gagnon@northlandchurch.net. 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 Minister to Teens Do you have a heart for hurting teens? We are looking for people to help with an exciting new ministry for students 6th- to 12th-graders. All training and materials will be provided. Laurie Jean Harrington at celebraterecovery@northlandchurch.net 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
Help Incarcerated Men Men needed to come alongside incarcerated men. No experience necessary. Minimum commitment: one hour per week. Greg Kerr at 407-770-8503 or gpkerr@cfl.rr.com
Special Needs Children and Teens Sundays, assist during the 11 a.m. worship service. Laura Lee Wright at 407-9370549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net
Jail Ministry Minister to inmates in Seminole and Orange County jails during the Saturday 6:30 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. or Monday 7 p.m. worship service, help with Celebrate Recovery inside for men and women, or become a mentor/coach for men and women recently released from incarceration. Pen pals and people to type prayer request cards are needed. Training is provided. More info is at northlandchurch.net/ministries/prison_and_ jail_transition. Jail Ministry voice mail at 407-949-4007
Ushers and Greeters Greet and seat those attending worship services. No experience necessary. Lori Holton at lori.holton@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4000
Serve with Northland Access Ministries Steering Committee Seeking community professionals and stakeholders who have a heart for addressing community-based options for affordable housing and care for people with disabilities in Central Florida to serve on a steering committee. Laura Lee Wright at 407-9370549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net Blood Drive Sunday, May 6, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:30 to 8 p.m.; Monday, May 7, 6 to 9:15 p.m., Northland at Longwood. In April, 68 people donated 62 units, and as a result 184 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 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. Patricia Williams at 407-665-5370 or evenings at 321-961-1280 or patricia.williams@gal.fl.gov. Disaster Response Teams Medical professionals, licensed CDL drivers, culinary professionals, veterinarians or vet techs, licensed mental health counselors and those interested in providing mental health services needed. Training provided. Visit northlandchurch.net/ministries/disaster_ response. Gretchen Kerr at 407-949-7190 or gretchen.kerr@northlandchurch.net Free Clinic Volunteers Needed Harvest Time International’s Medical Care Center will open this fall. It is currently looking for volunteers who would like to commit to serve at least once a month. It needs doctors, nurses 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. lena@ harvesttime.org or 407-328-9900, ext. 135 Good News Clubs in Public Schools Child Evangelism Fellowship in the Central Florida area needs helpers to serve in outreach to elementary schools in the Winter Springs area. The clubs are run on Wednesdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Orientation and resources to serve the children and make a difference are provided. More helpers are needed in other area schools. Jim at the CEF office at 407-896-7288 or cefcenfl@ earthlink.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 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 Pen Pals for Inmates Looking for men and women interested in corresponding with inmates in Seminole County jail. Additionally, some move on to prison and request a penpal. Must follow established guidelines. Gretchen Kerr at 407-949-7910 or gretchen.kerr@ northlandchurch.net 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 & Magnet School, Sanford. Teens through people in their 80s, read as “Nanas,” “Papas” or “Buddies” 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, or Elaine Gritter at egritter@bellsouth.net or 407-327-1474 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 407-320-5847 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 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
407-260-9155 or and job searches. www.thesharingcenter.org/volunteer Find other ways to serve in your community at www.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, May 16, 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 Desire Street Northland’s ministry partner Desire Street is transforming impoverished neighborhoods throughout the United States. Learn more at desirestreet.org. Exchange Ministries 1st and 3rd Mondays, 6:45 p.m., Counseling Center at First Baptist Church of Orlando. Exchange Ministries offers hope and help to individuals and families affected by homosexuality. Exchange provides a safe, confidential and intimate setting to share, heal and grow with other believers who are seeking God’s will for their lives and for the lives of their friends and loved ones. exchangeministries.org or 407-514-4356 Gripped by the Greatness of God Thursdays, 7 to 9 p.m., Rodriguez home, Lake Mary. Rediscover the wonder of God’s attributes and spur your spiritual walk into a consistent life pattern of worship and service to God! Luis Rodriguez at 407-687-7173 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 Healing and Transition (HAT) Program Serving men and women recently released from incarceration, and their families. Mentors/coaches needed; training is provided. Jobs, housing and other basic Gretchen needs. Grant writer is needed. Kerr at 407-712-4566 Marriage Oneness Tuesdays, May 15 through July 3, 7 to 9 p.m., Northland Oviedo Community Center, 561 E. Mitchell Hammock Road, Suite 300, Oviedo. Learn and practice practical ways to love better, connect better and be better—together in your marriage. Workbooks can be purchased from the Northland Bookstore for $50 for two. No child care available. Tim and Susie Brown at timbrown@cfl.rr.com or 407-359-5023, or Rick and Jolene Burns at jburns@mycbfl.com or 407-462-5130
men Christian Businessmen’s Connection Tuesdays, 7 to 8 a.m., Denny’s, Lee Road exit off Interstate 4. A worldwide men’s ministry for 78 years (www.cbmc.com) that meets for fellowship, prayer and discussion of God’s principles for business. Armand Dauplaise at 407-221-3114 or adauplaise@ aol.com, or Larrie Kitchen at 407-290-5642 Faithful and True Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m., room 3-215, Reformed Theological Seminary, Oviedo. Join a fellowship of men pursuing sexual integrity. Matt Casada at Mattcasada@ gmail.com or 407-949-4000, ext. 1770 Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise Monday, February 11 through Friday, February 15, 2013. Sail with other Northland couples on a five-day, four-night FamilyLife cruise on the Carnival Imagination to Key West and Cozumel, and enjoy Christian fun and fellowship. Great guest speakers will include Dennis and Barb Rainey and Voddie Baucham. Musical guests will include Sarah Groves, Anthony Evans and the Mile High Orchestra. Learn biblical and practical ways to enrich your marriage. Save $200 on all bookings if you register now with our Northland group! Convenient payment plans are available. Jolene Burns 407-462-5130 or jburns@mycbfl.com Wild at Heart Boot Camp October 4 to 7. This weekend boot camp is based on John Eldredge’s book Wild at Heart. The event is for men 18 years and older and is hosted by The Larger Story, a small group of men trying to be very intentional about passing on the life we have received from Jesus. Visit TheLargerStory. com to view a short video and read more about the weekend. You also will find links to register and pay for the event. The cost is $185, if registered by June 30, and $200 July Kirk Solberg at kirksolberg@ 1 or after. smileartist.com or 321-277-6801
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 Amazing Women Saturdays, May 19, June 9, July 14, August 18, September 22, October 20, November 17, December 8, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Hilton, 350 North Lake Blvd., Altamonte Springs. This is a community of women who are followers of Christ and open to hear His message. Each meeting includes awesome music, special guests, and a timely and transforming Bible teaching from founder, Angela Courte. Register at: www. amazingwomen.com. Community Bible Study Wednesdays, September 5 through May 8, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Community United Methodist on 17-92. Join women from all backgrounds and levels of Bible knowledge
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10 to study Deuteronomy and Hebrews. Child care is available. and registration: Paula Porter at 407-325-3154, Eunice Hopkins at 407-339-6112 (en Español), or Orlando. CBSclass.org Divorced/Widowed Women’s Fellowship Second and fourth Sundays of each month, 3 p.m., Nancy Petitto’s home, Casselberry. Join other women for prayer and discussion at this potluck fellowship. Children welcome. Nancy Petitto at 321972-2255 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
Governing Elders Continued from page 3.
governing elders are responsible for the overall doctrinal and operational integrity of the church. They directly oversee the pastors and staff. Our pastors, who also serve in the role of elder, and executive directors work closely with the governing elders to create environments for ministry, which enable you to meaningfully encounter God and respond to Him. The nine governing elders could not personally equip and encourage all the ministries that emanate from Northland. Therefore, non-governing elders are trained for specific areas of ministry and are then distributed throughout our local body, around the greater Orlando area or globally. In all, more than 70 elders are currently serving in the Northland community. Many are available for prayer after each of our worship services and serve directly in the ministries that operate in and through Northland. RESPOND. Get to know your elders! Visit northlandchurch.net/team.
Earlier this year, 18 men were commissioned to the role of elder at Northland.
Dr. Rick Baxley
Ryan Brennan
Bob Case
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. 407949-4000 or serve@northlandchurch.net 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
Paul DePalma
Don Gagnon
Jack Gritter
Robert Johnson
Jeff Knipe
Eric Linares
Alex Morales
David Mullen
Mamdouh Nasr
Ray Scott
Mike Sheffey
Josh Smith
Brian Walsh
Cooper Wise
Keith Wynsma
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 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
Looking for ministry-related jobs in Central Florida? Need to hire at your ministry? Find and post
paid positions at jobs. northlandchurch.net.
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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@travel2brazil.com 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 15,000 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. They have three married sons and six grandchildren, including one in heaven. Learn more about Pastor Hunter’s life in ministry at northlandchurch.net/joelhunter.
DISTRIBUTED SITES
Whom do I contact if:
MOUNT DORA SITE The Seventh-Day Adventist Church. . . . . . . . . 9 and 11 a.m. 18440 Highway 441, Mount Dora, FL 32757 The church is on the south side of Highway 441. Look for the “Northland” sign. Facebook.com . . . . www.facebook.com/northlandmountdora General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7184 Robert Johnson, Site Minister. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-792-1146 or robert.johnson@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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7149 or elaine.harland@northlandchurch.net
HOME CHURCHES Crystal River, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saturdays, 5 p.m. Tom and Alice Austin: aaustin@qahomes.com or 352-270-8764 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
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? Bob Keiderling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-937-1789 or bob.keiderling@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 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? Lori Holton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 lori.holton@northlandchurch.net I want to get involved in a serve project? Dana DeVries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7156 or serve@northlandchurch.net; or visit northlandchurch.net/serve
Ocoee, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 9 a.m. Marty McCoy: mmccoy@kostoandrotella.com or 407-733-5989
I am getting married? Sharon Ferreira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@northlandchurch.net
Ponce Inlet, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 9 a.m. Joe and Donna Leonardo: josephleonardo@sprintmail.com or 386-236-8871
I need to plan a funeral? Sharon Ferreira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@northlandchurch.net
Salisbury, NC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 4:30 p.m. Laurie and Tim Klaus: pianolauriek@yahoo.com or 704-636-5966
I want to learn more about your Spanish Ministry? Quiero aprender más acerca de su Ministerio en Español. Ivan Portillo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-4000 or ivan.portillo@northlandchurch.net
Tyngsboro, MA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundays, 11 a.m. Debbie Miller: NorthlandTyngsboro@gmail.com or 978-649-6115 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 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? Visit LifeHope in the Care Center . . . . . . 407-949-4000 Walk-in hours are 9 to 1 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday. I need information on jail/prison transition ministries? Gretchen Kerr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7190 or gretchen.kerr@northlandchurch.net I need the Resource Advocate Office for Families in Transition? Gretchen Kerr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-949-7190 or gretchen.kerr@northlandchurch.net
Access Ministries
Joel C. Hunter Scholarship Award Offered
We have programs and services for individuals with disabilities. These efforts are being led by Laura Lee Wright, Northland’s Access Ministries team leader who can be reached at 407-9370549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net. Find out more at northlandchurch.net/blogs/category/ access_ministries/.
The Joel C. Hunter Scholarship, in an amount up to $5,000, was created in 1998 to honor Dr. Hunter’s teaching and leadership. The purpose of this scholarship is to assist those training in the arts, theology or any other discipline that could be dedicated to ministry consistent with the distributed church model. Northland’s True North Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2012 award. Completed application packets must be received by Friday, May 25 for consideration. Recipients will be notified by Friday, June 22. The Respond newspaper will provide bios of this year’s scholarship recipients in an upcoming issue. At your request, an application will be e-mailed to you that will provide you with all the details. To receive your application, e-mail or call the church office. Stephen Thomas at stephen.thomas@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7185
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)
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: Worshiping God — John 4:21 Glorify God for who He is and what He has done. Reading the Bible — Jeremiah 1:12 Study God’s message to you often. Sharing our stories — 1 Peter 3:15 Tell others what God is doing in your life. Being in community — John 13:35 Foster environments for relationship. Praying — 1 Peter 3:12 Engage in conversation with God. Serving others — Matthew 25:40 Meet the needs of the people around you. Living 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.
WoRshIp tImes Saturdays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 p.m. Sundays . . . . 9 (hi)(sp), 11 a.m.(sp); 5 p.m. Mondays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m. (hi) Hearing-impaired interpretation available (sp) Spanish interpretation available
live concurrent worship Northland at oviedo and Northland at Mount dora worship with us concurrently at the 9 and 11 a.m. worship times.
¿habla español?
— 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)
Join us for liVE online worship at during any of our worship times!
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.!
the church
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man
— 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)
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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.
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.