Worship-Respond 50 by Northland Church

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED

DECEMBER 11-13 , 2010

NOTES

LUKE 1:13 — But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will give him the name John.” LUKE 1: 38 — And Mary said, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. MATTHEW 1:18 — Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. MATTHEW 2:1 — Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, …

Luke 1:13, 38; Matthew 1:18, 2:1 (NASB) A MESSAGE FROM DR. JOEL C. HUNTER

LOVE CAME DOWN: The Adjusting Core

This Week DR. JOEL C. HUNTER

Read about Northland’s senior pastor, Dr. Hunter, and his life in ministry at northlandchurch.net/about.

WORSHIP FOCUS Worship Christ today as the Author of joy. He has turned our mourning into dancing! He has removed our sackcloth and clothed us with joy! (Psalm 30)

TALK ABOUT IT

RESPOND. NEWSPAPER Looking for opportunities for students? Support groups? Maybe you’d like to join a class or Bible study? Want to find a service project or Distributed Journey? Look no further! Available in the lobby, this weekly resource is your gateway to practical ways to respond to God in worship everywhere, every day!

NEW TO NORTHLAND? Take a second to stop by an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we’d love to get to know you! Also, be sure to pick up a copy of the Respond. newspaper. It’s a quick and easy way to discover what Northland is all about and to browse the various ways you can start getting connected.

This Week Need. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259,837 Received . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301,919 Difference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42,082

COMING NEXT WEEK

FINANCIAL REPORT as of December 6, 2010

This Advent season, consider responding together as a family or with friends to the coming of Christ by reading the daily Scriptures together that are provided on Northland’s website (bible.northlandchurch.net). Here’s how it works: Each day three passages will be provided. Each morning there will be a psalm to read, each afternoon, a passage from the prophet Isaiah, and each evening, a passage from the Gospel of Matthew. You may choose to read them all, or you may choose one book to follow. The passage that is immediately visible will change based on the time of day you visit the site. It is our hope that you will grow closer to God and to one another as you focus together on the deeper meaning of Christmas.

Next week Dr. Hunter will continue his Advent series, Love Came Down, by teaching us about the angelic activity that takes place in heaven when the kingdom of heaven comes to earth.

PREPARE FOR NEXT WEEK’S WORSHIP:

TITHES & OFFERINGS Electronic giving is available at the kiosks located in the lobby or online at northlandchurch. net. Offering envelopes are at all giving boxes. Contact Twila Roberts at 407-949-4000 with questions.

This Year Need. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12,737,785 Received . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11,818,530 Difference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . (919,255)

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED 530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750 (407) 949-4000 | www.northlandchurch.net

worship.northlandchurch.net

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED

DECEMBER 11-13 , 2010

NOTES

Luke 1:13, 38; Matthew 1:18, 2:1 (NASB) A MESSAGE FROM DR. JOEL C. HUNTER

LOVE CAME DOWN: The Adjusting Core

This Week DR. JOEL C. HUNTER

Read about Northland’s senior pastor, Dr. Hunter, and his life in ministry at northlandchurch.net/about.

RESPOND. NEWSPAPER

WORSHIP FOCUS

Looking for opportunities for students? Support groups? Maybe you’d like to join a class or Bible study? Want to find a service project or Distributed Journey? Look no further! Available in the lobby, this weekly resource is your gateway to practical ways to respond to God in worship everywhere, every day!

Worship Christ today as the Author of joy. He has turned our mourning into dancing! He has removed our sackcloth and clothed us with joy! (Psalm 30)

NEW TO NORTHLAND?

TALK ABOUT IT This Advent season, consider responding together as a family or with friends to the coming of Christ by reading the daily Scriptures together that are provided on Northland’s website (bible.northlandchurch.net). Here’s how it works: Each day three passages will be provided. Each morning there will be a psalm to read, each afternoon, a passage from the prophet Isaiah, and each evening, a passage from the Gospel of Matthew. You may choose to read them all, or you may choose one book to follow. The passage that is immediately visible will change based on the time of day you visit the site. It is our hope that you will grow closer to God and to one another as you focus together on the deeper meaning of Christmas.

COMING NEXT WEEK Next week Dr. Hunter will continue his Advent series, Love Came Down, by teaching us about the angelic activity that takes place in heaven when the kingdom of heaven comes to earth.

PREPARE FOR NEXT WEEK’S WORSHIP:

worship.northlandchurch.net

Take a second to stop by an Info Kiosk in the foyer on your way out — we’d love to get to know you! Also, be sure to pick up a copy of the Respond. newspaper. It’s a quick and easy way to discover what Northland is all about and to browse the various ways you can start getting connected.

FINANCIAL REPORT as of December 6, 2010 This Week Need. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259,837 Received . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301,919 Difference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42,082

This Year Need. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12,737,785 Received . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11,818,530 Difference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . (919,255)

NORTHLAND, A CHURCH DISTRIBUTED 530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, FL 32750 (407) 949-4000 | www.northlandchurch.net

Gracious Lord Jesus,

who came as a baby, disrupting the lives of Mary and Joseph, the shepherds and the magi, come and disrupt our lives. Remind us that You did not come so we could be made comfortable; You came so we could be made holy. This Christmas give us eyes to see the tension in our lives as evidence of what is being born in us. Remind us that Your love far exceeds our discomfort, and Your presence brings fullness of joy. Grant us courage to move forward as agents of Your Kingdom, to bring light into darkness and to speak the Good News where there is despair. We boldly ask that by the power of Your Spirit, which resides within us, You would bring Heaven to earth through us for Your glory. It’s in Your mighty name that we pray.

Amen.

R AND E G N A M E H RTY OF T E V O P E H T ABLE.” UGH T O U R F E H R T IR D , E E S L S HAS PA QUERAB D N O O G C F N U O Y IS ffer O O IT S “ THE J D trich Bonhoe N ie A D ; — S S O F THE CR O T N E M R O THE T

God of birth, God of joy, God of life, we come to you as a people hungry for good news. We have been so dead to miracles that we have missed the world’s rebirth. We have preoccupied ourselves with pleasures and have overlooked the joy you offer us.

What’s Current Mark Your Calendar! Thursday, December 23 Longwood/Online: 5 and 7 p.m.

Friday, December 24 Longwood/Online: Noon, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Mount Dora: 6 p.m. Oviedo: 4 and 6 p.m. More info on page 7 in Respond or visit

northlandchurch.net/christmas.

We have been so concerned with making a living that we have missed the life you set among us.

A Celebration of Christ’s Birth! Friday, December 17, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $10. Doors open at

Forgive us, gracious God.

7 p.m. Come early for dinner; Nature’s Table Café will open at 5:30 p.m.

Open our eyes and our hearts to receive your gift; open our lips and hands to share it with all humanity

For tickets, call 888-200-7952 or visit

northlandchurch.net/calendar.

in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. —Worship Sourcebook

Sponsor a Student! Deadline: Wednesday, December 22 Watch the video and see one student’s Christmas Camp story:

generous.northlandchurch.net.

More information is available at the link above or on page 4 in Respond.

Gracious Lord Jesus,

Amen.

What’s Current Mark Your Calendar! Thursday, December 23 Longwood/Online: 5 and 7 p.m.

Friday, December 24 Longwood/Online: Noon, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Mount Dora: 6 p.m. Oviedo: 4 and 6 p.m. More info on page 7 in Respond or visit

northlandchurch.net/christmas.

We have been so concerned with making a living that we have missed the life you set among us.

A Celebration of Christ’s Birth! Friday, December 17, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $10. Doors open at

Forgive us, gracious God.

7 p.m. Come early for dinner; Nature’s Table Café will open at 5:30 p.m.

Open our eyes and our hearts to receive your gift; open our lips and hands to share it with all humanity

For tickets, call 888-200-7952 or visit

northlandchurch.net/calendar.

in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. —Worship Sourcebook

Sponsor a Student! Deadline: Wednesday, December 22 Watch the video and see one student’s Christmas Camp story:

generous.northlandchurch.net.

More information is available at the link above or on page 4 in Respond.

DECember 11 - 18, 2010

NORTHLAND A C H U R C H DISTRIBUTED www.northlandchurch.net

Respond. Be the Church.

Christmas worship schedule

Mark your calendar! Thursday, December 23 Longwood/Online: 5 and 7 p.m. Friday, December 24 Longwood/Online: Noon, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Mount Dora: 6 p.m. Oviedo: 4 and 6 p.m.

More info on page 7 or at northlandchurch.net/christmas.

every where. every day.

christmas concert

christmas camp

With the Annie Moses Band

Sponsor a high school student.

Friday, December 17, 7:30 p.m.

Deadline: December 22

More info on page 7 or at northlandchurch.net/calendar.

More info on page 4 or at generous.northlandchurch.net.

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

WORSHIP GOD 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:

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.

Who are those people who adjusted their lives so they could bring you into the Kingdom?

“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

Overwhelmed i n a G o o d W ay B y B e c k y H u nt e r

“ And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” –Luke 2:7 (NIV)

In just a few weeks, we will all be singing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus! That will be great fun! The days between now and when we will be blowing out the Advent candles, though, can feel a bit overwhelming. Why is that? Do you really think it is because in addition to our daily routines, we are buying, wrapping and mailing gifts, or because we are spending hours baking goodies, decorating our homes and inviting tons of people in to enjoy the festive atmosphere? Is it because we are taking on more service projects, volunteering for more and stretching our giving to a point that feels uncomfortable? Are these really the kinds of things that overwhelm us? No, I don’t think so. I’m convinced the root cause of our being overwhelmed this time of year is that we personally know Jesus, whose birthday we will celebrate soon. No amount of preparation is adequate for the celebration that His being born warrants, and we know it, but we are compelled to give it our best effort. And rather than suggest you stop and smell the poinsettias these days, I would like to let you know that your herculean efforts this season just might be the means God uses to make someone curious about the extraordinary Baby who has caused you to be even more other-focused and giving than usual. I’m not at all convinced that we lose the meaning of Christmas in all the hustle and bustle of this season. In fact, I believe just the opposite. I believe we affirm its meaning. You and I have an opportunity these next few weeks to prepare our little piece of the world for His birthday. What an honor. I’m overwhelmed, and I’m praying you are, too.

RESPOND Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. –Colossians 3:23 (NLT)

Mark Your Calendar!

Student Ministries

Activating Students to Make Kingdom Noise. What is Making Kingdom Noise? It’s the Love of Jesus in Action.

Christmas Camp

(For High School Students) December 29 to January 1, Southwind, Young Life Camp. Visit www.northlandchurch.net/ministries/ high_school_ministries to register and for more info. Cost: $229, if registration and $100 deposit are received by December 13. $249, if registration and $100 deposit are received between December 14 and 22. SEE HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT A STUDENT IN THE ARTICLE TO THE RIGHT ON THIS PAGE, OR VISIT: generous.northlandchurch.net. Shaylynn Stoner at 407-949-7194 or shaylynn. stoner@northlandchurch.net

Sponsor a student! Watch the video, and see one student’s Christmas Camp story.

Middle School Ministry

Access Ministries for Students

To register for any of these activities and for more detailed information, visit www.northlandchurch.net/ ministries/middle_school_ministries. Shaylynn Stoner at 407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@ northlandchurch.net • LUGRox (Living Under Grace Rocks!) Youth Group Saturdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. • Firm Foundations Class Sundays, 10:45 a.m. to noon, fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. • ABS (Area Bible Studies) Date, time and costs vary by location.

Young Life Capernaum Last Friday of each month, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. Laura Lee Wright at 407-937-0549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net

High School Ministry To register for any of these activities and for more detailed information, visit www.northlandchurch.net/ ministries/high_school_ministries. Shaylynn Stoner at 407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@ northlandchurch.net • i-3 (I am third) Youth Group Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. • Noise Groups / Community Groups Date, time and costs vary by location. • Servant Leadership Ministry www.northlandchurch.net/ministries/high_school_ ministries

generous.northlandchurch.net

Mark Your Calendar! Christmas Services December 23-24 Child care will be provided for those age 3 and younger at all of our Christmas services (see page 7 for details). No registration necessary.

December 24, 2 p.m. Class for children with special needs. Registration required. Contact Laura Lee Wright at 407-937-0549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net to register.

December 26-27 Regular Sunday school classes resume.

Steps for Young Believers (Grades 2-5) and Their Parents Step 1 – January 9-30 Step 3 – January 23-February 27 Step 2 – February 6-March 6 More info on page 5. Register with Diane Jones at 407-949-7188 or diane.jones@ northlandchurch.net.

Christmas Camp Sponsorship Ways to Get Involved Pray—Pray in December for what God will do in the lives of the students at Christmas Camp. Pray for safety as we travel, the counselors as they prepare for camp and build relationships with students there, the worship band as it prepares and leads students in worship, the speaker and the work crew as they serve the students. Fast—Fast and pray for the requests above. Sponsor—Enable a high school student to go to Christmas Camp. Each year more than 100 high school students attend, and God works in their lives in amazing ways. Our theme for camp last year was “Stories.” Both at camp and throughout this year, we have spoken to many students who, for the first time, were willing to give God the pen to write their story. They believe there is no one better to write their story than their Savior, Jesus Christ. Any sponsorship is welcome. Suggestions: • Sponsor one student: $199 • Sponsor five students: $995 • Sponsor 10 students: $1,990 Your generosity will help make it possible for a student to begin or grow in their relationship with Christ. (Make checks payable to Northland Church. Note “Christmas Camp Sponsorship” in the memo line and place it in one of the tithe boxes.) Shaylynn Stoner at 407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@ northlandchurch.net

Children’s Ministries

how can they call on him to save them … how can they believe … unless someone tells them? —Romans 10:14 (NLT)

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. Laura Lee Wright at lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0549

A weekday cooperative learning environment The Northland Early Learning Center will enroll children who have reached the age of 2, 3 or 4 by September 1 into the 2-, 3- or 4-year-olds class, respectively. As classes fill up, children will be placed on a waiting list and put in a class on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure your child’s spot in a class, there is a $65 nonrefundable registration fee. Pam Anderson at 407-949-7179 or pam.anderson@ northlandchurch.net

Volunteer of the Week: Laura Betts

We learned God sent the Ten Commandments to help us love God and one another.

This week we celebrate Laura Betts, who has been a faithful Access volunteer for many years. Laura’s specialty is being a one-on-one Buddy for our children with special needs. Laura is always willing to step in where she is needed, and prays for our children and families throughout the week. We are grateful for her gentle spirit, her warm smile and her gift of time!

Why did you make that?

Ways to Respond Baptisms Adult Baptisms Sunday, December 12, 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, January 15, 7 p.m., room 4206. Child care is available upon request. Diane Jones at 407-949-7188 or diane.jones@northlandchurch.net

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

Precepts Inductive Bible Study—Esther Mondays, January 3 through February 14, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., rooms 4209-10. Workbook cost approximately $11. Child care available with reservation. Melody Ringenberg at rringenberg@cfl.rr.com

PRAYER groups Children’s Ministries Prayer Team Pray weekly from your home for needs in Children’s Ministries. Carol Moss at carol. moss@northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7180 Prayer Group Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., room 1116, Student Ministries and Care Center. Jean Sherwood at 407-796-4705

Classes & Training ADULTS

Bible Studies & Prayer Groups adult bible studies Corinthians Bible Study Sundays, 10:45 a.m., rooms 4206-7. Learn to follow God’s wisdom instead of man’s knowledge. John and Carolyn Jones at 407-831-5822

MEN’S BIBLE STUDIES James, 1 and 2 Peter Tuesdays, 6:45 to 8 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1118. Bob Shoemaker at bobshoemaker@ mindspring.com or 407-599-3132 Philippians Thursdays, 6:30 a.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, room 1118. Join this open-forum discussion on the book of Philippians: 45 minutes of study and 15 minutes of prayer. Leo Carrier at leo@carrierinsurance.com

woMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES Beth Moore Study Study: Jesus, the One and Only. Child care is available with registration. Workbook available in the Northland Bookstore for $16.95. • Mondays, January 10 through March 21, 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Cherrie Rowe at 407-322-6850, or Ann Clark at 407-804-5282 or ann@ clarkmail.us • Tuesdays, January 11 through March 22, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Cherrie Rowe at 407-322-6850, or Marlene Ross at 407-833-0094 or rossduo@cfl.rr.com

Membership Seminar Saturday, January 15, 8:30 a.m. to noon, The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Participate in this Saturday morning membership seminar and hear Pastor Hunter and other senior leadership 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

children Steps for Young Believers (Grades 2-5) and Their Parents These courses in basic discipleship include classroom sessions and daily at-home devotionals. Sundays, 4 to 5:45 p.m. Materials cost: $5. Registration is required. Diane Jones at 407-949-7188 or diane. jones@northlandchurch.net • STEP 1—BECOMING A PART OF GOD’S FAMILY: January 9 to 30. Focus: Salvation and assurance. Includes Communion instruction. • STEP 2—THE MOST IMPORTANT THING: February 6 to March 6. Focus: Jesus’ Life A-Z, a basic discipleship theme and learning about the life of Christ. Baptism offered at end of course. • STEP 3—LIVING BY THE BOOK, “C-ING” MY WAY THROUGH THE BIBLE: January 23 to February 27. Focus: to develop skills in exploring the Bible.

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

Care Groups adults Celebrate Recovery Fridays, 7 to 9 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. Gain freedom from life’s hurts, habits and hang-ups over dinner, fellowship and share groups, which include Newcomers 101, Men’s and Women’s Chemical Dependency, Women’s Co-Dependency, and Parents of Prodigals. Laurie Jean Harrington at lauriejean2@bellsouth.net or mmannen@cfl.rr.com Coping with Addictions/Codependency Thursdays, 7 p.m., Student Ministries and Care Center, fellowship hall. A Christcentered, 12-step program dealing with issues such as alcohol, drugs, relationships, food, sexual addictions, codependency and issues affecting adult children of addiction. Child care is available. His Way at 407-599-9770 DivorceCare Tuesdays, call for location. 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 $16 for the book (available in the Northland Bookstore). Child care available. Donna Delzingaro at 407-937-1749 GriefShare Call for time and location. This healing ministry walks you through the steps of grief. Workbook is available at Northland’s bookstore for $16. GriefShare voiceline at 407-949-7152 or jansten2@bellsouth.net Parents of the Prodigals Fridays, 7 to 9 p.m., Children’s Worship Wing. A support group helping parents cope with kids in trouble, in jail, on drugs, etc., and with serious behavioral problems. Child care available. Laurie Jean Harrington at lauriejean2@bellsouth.net or 407-977-6742 PRAXIS (Conquering Fear, Anger, Anxiety) Tuesdays, 7:15 p.m., room 4204. Conquer fear, anger and anxiety through biblical principles. Child care is available. Skye Engel at 407-834-3158 Support for the Separated Tuesdays, call for location. Support group for those who are separated with court papers pending, for healing, hope and reconciliation in the Lord. Cost: $5, and $16 for the book (available in the Northland Bookstore). Child care available. Assessment required. Donna Delzingaro at 407-937-1749

MEN Struggling with Homosexuality? Thursdays, 8 to 10 p.m., call for confidential location. Among Friends is a weekly support group for men who struggle with same-sex attraction and/or same-sex attraction feelings who want to live a life pleasing to God. David at 407-937-1793

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. Women’s Healing Ministry Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., room 1111. 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

Special Interest Groups Access Ministries for Adults First Sunday each month, 4:30 p.m., room 4204. A weekly devotion and welcoming social connection opportunity for adults living with disabilities, their friends and family or caregivers. Heather Subbert at 321-4422028 or hsubbert@gmail.com 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@ landscapeorlando.com, or Buzz Vincent at 407-463-9398 or blv292@cfl.rr.com Buddy Break Saturday, December 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 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. Laura Lee Wright at 407-937-0549 or buddybreak@ northlandchurch.net Common Ground Adult Ministry (Ages 25-45) Mondays, 7 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 407-401-8960 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 Fusion College Ministry (For students ages 18-25) Sundays, 7:15 p.m., The Rink, Student Ministries and Care Center. Spend time in worship, prayer and the Scriptures. Shaylynn Stoner at 407-949-7194 or shaylynn.stoner@northlandchurch.net

6 Kingdom Advisors Third 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

Medical First Responders During worship services and special events. BLS-trained or medical professionals, especially EMTs, are needed. Ruth Sapp at ruth.sapp@northlandchurch.net or 407937-0544

Moms4Moms Get connected with other moms for friendship and encouragement through meetings and playgroup activities. Registration required. and specific dates: www.northlandmoms4moms.com

Phone Assistance Weekday volunteers are needed to answer phones and greet visitors. Flexible hours. Ruth Sapp at ruth.sapp@northlandchurch. net or 407-937-0544

Motorcycle Group Sunday, December 12, 9 a.m., call for start location. This ride is to celebrate Christmas for children. At the end of the event there will be food, vendors and music. Please bring money for lunch. All styles welcome. Must own a motorcycle and have a valid motorcycle license to participate. Lori Landers at 407-333-2612 Seniors Group (Age 60 and up) Third Wednesday of each month, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., fellowship hall, Student Ministries and Care Center. Bring nonperishable food items for the Pastoral Care pantry. Cassie Small at 407-834-5203 Single Purpose (Singles age 35 and up) Fourth Sunday of each month, 4 p.m., rooms 4209-10. Attend, or e-mail to find out more about weekly small groups. Liza Johnson or Dave Mullen at singlepurpose35andup@gmail.com 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

Serve at Northland Questions about serving at Northland? serve@northlandchurch.net or 407-9494000 or serve.northlandchurch.net Communion Servers Communion servers are needed the first weekend of each month. Training provided. Lori Holton at communion@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-4000

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 Ushers and Greeters Greet and seat those attending worship services. Serve for 2 1/2 hours every other weekend. No experience necessary. Ruth Sapp at ruth.sapp@northlandchurch.net or 407-937-0544

Christmas: Serve at Northland Parking During Christmas Eve services. Jeff Hess at jeff.hess@northlandchurch. net or 407-949-4000 Security During Christmas Eve services. Rick Bradshaw at rick.bradshaw@ northlandchurch.net or 407-949-7157 Ushers and Greeters During Christmas Eve services. 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 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. Gretchen Kerr at 407-949-7190 or gretchen.kerr@northlandchurch.net 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@mindspring.com IFM Christmas Hosts Needed December 20 to December 29. Seventy-five international university students will arrive in Orlando for the IFM Christmas. American Christians are needed to host

the students for at least the first six days. Dave Hedberg at dave@ifmusa.org or 407-719-3572 Jail Ministry Minister to inmates in Seminole County or Orange County jails during the Sunday 9 a.m. worship; Celebrate Recovery for women, Thursday afternoons; assist women with long-term planning; prayer team; pen pals. Training provided. Jail Ministry voice mail at 407-949-4007 Life Service To register for or to find out more about these and other serve projects, visit serve.northlandchurch.net DEC 9 . . . . . . . Downtown Homeless Ministry DEC 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Local Serve Day DEC 11 . . . . . . . . . . Ronald McDonald House DEC 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christmas Concert DEC 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Give Kids the World Dana Kobosky at 407-949-7156 or dana. kobosky@northlandchurch.net Longwood Health Care Center Sundays, 9 a.m., sanctuary. Give hugs and show love to the residents of the facility behind Northland on Grant Street. People are needed to bring the residents to the Sunday 9 a.m. service at Northland at Longwood. Patsy Grannan at 407-538-5209 or pgrannan@yahoo.com Mission to Japan Hosts Needed December 18 through January 5. House and befriend a Japanese high school or college student coming to Orlando over the Christmas holiday. Warren Griffith at 407243-8867 or info@MissionToJapan.org 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 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

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 Exchange Ministries Mondays, 7:15 to 9:15 p.m., First Baptist Orlando, E-2 building, third floor, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando. A Christcentered ministry for men and women struggling with homosexuality. John Westcott at www.exchangeministries.org or

407-514-4356 • Support Group First Monday of each month, 7 p.m., First Baptist Orlando, E-2 building, third floor, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando. For parents, friends and family members who have loved ones struggling with sexual identity. Inquiries are Cherrie Rowe at 407-322confidential. 6850 or cherbear100@aol.com 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 Thursdays, 6:30 to 8 p.m., TLC Women’s Center, 4804 Edgewater Drive, Orlando. This post-abortion ministry shares the healing grace of Jesus without judgment. Coorie Moore at 407-292-7628 Readers Ministry Tuesdays, 1 to 3 p.m., Goldsboro Elementary School in Sanford. Read to kindergarteners and first-graders. Elaine Gritter at egritter@bellsouth.net or 407-3271474, or Candy Guernsey at cwgrfg@aol.com or 407-323-9433 Visit Israel with Pastor Gus Davies February 17 to 27, 2011. Join this spiritual pilgrimage to Israel to see where many of the Bible events took place. Felipe Santos at Universal Travel 407-831-0062 or acts1.8@ earthlink.net. Wounded Heart Thursdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., chapel, Reformed Theological Seminary, Oviedo. Join other sexual abuse survivors as they embark on an honest, hopeful and healing exploration using the book The Wounded Heart and its workbook, by Dan Allender. Mindy Bales at MindyBales@gmail.com or 407-949-4000, ext. 1702

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

parentS NearHim Home Educators Supports and encourages families that God has called to teach their children at home. www.nearhim.com

women Community Bible Study Wednesdays, through May 4, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Community United Methodist Church, Casselberry. Study: 1 and 2 Peter, Daniel and Colossians. Children’s program available. Sandi McLaughlin at 407-3424765 or www.OrlandoCBS.org

7 Confidence in Crisis Thursdays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Panera Bread, Winter Springs. Designed for women experiencing marital crisis with separation and/or divorce. Sandy Isaacs at 407-2727522 or sandylisaacs@yahoo.com 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

Donations

Other Services

Please take clean, usable clothing, toys, household items and supplies to The Sharing Center, Fairmont Plaza, 600 N. Highway 17-92, Longwood. 407-260-9155

Marriage Ceremonies and Funeral Arrangements: Sharon Ferreira at 407-949-7189 or sharon.ferreira@northlandchurch.net

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

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

Backpacks, blankets, tennis shoes, hygienic supplies, and men’s and women’s casual clothes 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

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

Access Ministries We have programs and services for individuals with disabilities. These efforts are being led by Laura Lee Wright, Northland’s Access Ministries team leader at 407-9370549 or lauralee.wright@northlandchurch.net. Find out more at northlandchurch.net/ blogs/category/access_ministries/

Revelation sermon series audio CDs

available in the Northland Bookstore!

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

This message series, which Dr. Joel C. Hunter originally preached in 1995, is incredibly relevant for today as well. Listening to Dr. Hunter’s teachings and explanations of these sometimes hard-to-comprehend passages of the Bible will leave you hanging on to every word. This “Revelation” series is great for personal growth, families, ministries, church study groups and daily life situations.

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

Special Events Annie Moses Band Christmas Concert Friday, December 17, 7:30 p.m., Sanctuary. Tickets may be purchased at northlandchurch.net/calendar or call 1-888200-7952. Sarah Mattingly at 407-9497170 or sarah.mattingly@northlandchurch.net

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Northland’s Student Ministries and Care Center. LifeHope is a benevolence ministry that serves people in need in our church family and community for the purpose of connecting them to a relationship with God and Christian community through worship, equipping and service. It is the privilege of our ministers to love, listen to, pray with and serve you during your first visit. They will help assess your priority needs and eligibility to be considered for assistance. Our LifeHope staff will then guide you toward your next steps. This may require an additional visit. Our strongest desire is to empower and equip you to live the life God has for you. Rachel Ballantyne at 407-949-7196 or lifehope@northlandchurch.net Find out more at northlandchurch.net/ ministries/financial_help/

Counseling: Scotty Alderman at 407-949-7204 or scotty.alderman@northlandchurch.net

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

Women’s Outreach Luncheon Second Wednesday of each month, noon to 2 p.m., DeBary Golf & Country Club, 300 Plantation Club Drive. Enjoy interesting speakers, connect with others, and enjoy Christian fellowship within our community (affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries). Cost: $15 (includes served lunch). and reservations: Bev Sullivan at BevSullivan02@ aol.com or 386-753-1191.

LIFEHOPE

12-CD series set costs $20.

Christmas Worship Schedule

Festival of Orchestras JAN 14. . . . . . . Toronto Symphony Orchestra FEB 4. . . . . . . . . . German State Philharmonic MAR 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Boston Pops and to purchase tickets: Festival of Orchestras box office at 407-539-0245 or festivaloforchestras.org

Thursday, December 23 Longwood/Online: 5 and 7 p.m. (Spanish interpretation will be available at both services.)

Friday, December 24 Longwood/Online: Noon, 2*, 4, 6* and 8 p.m. (*Hearing interpretation will be available.) Oviedo:

4 and 6 p.m.

Mount Dora:

6 p.m.

Tickets are not necessary. Choose a time that works best for you and your family! Doors open 30 minutes prior, and the service is estimated at just over one hour. Child care will be available for those age 3 and under. All other children can enjoy worshiping with their families in the main sanctuary.

Financial Report As of December 6, 2010

Electronic giving is available at the kiosks located in the foyer or online at www.northlandchurch.net. Offering envelopes are available at all giving boxes. Twila Roberts at 407-949-4000 Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability

THIS WEEK

Attendance

THIS YEAR

Surplus/ Need Received (Deficit) Need Received

November 27 to 29, 2010 Surplus/ (Deficit)

Ministry Operations

225,101

271,910

46,809

11,029,949

10,668,384

(361,565)

Mortgage Payment

34,736

30,010

(4,726)

1,707,836

1,150,146

(557,690)

259,837

301,919

42,082

12,737,785

11,818,530

*(919,255)

Total Budget

LOAN BALANCE is currently $18,457,500 *Deficit currently being covered by operating reserve.

Northland at Longwood . . . . . . . 6,260 Northland at Oviedo . . . . . . . . . . . 341 Northland at Mount Dora . . . . . . . . 222 Northland at West Oaks . . . . . . . . . 28 Seminole County Jail . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Orange County Jail . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Online Live (1,117 sites) . . . . . . 2,551 Online Archived . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 696 Total (1,123 sites) . . . . . . . . . . 10,182

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)

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 Send newspaper correspondence to: newspaper@northlandchurch.net

Vision Statement

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

Mission Statement

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

What is a “Church Distributed”? Put simply: It means that church isn’t a building ... it’s people “being the church,” everywhere, every day — responding to God for who He is and what He has done. It also means that, in recognition of how God distributes different gifts among people (1 Corinthians 12:11), we connect with individuals and organizations outside our four walls for long-term support and effectiveness — without blurring distinctions. Pastor Hunter puts it this way: “Both spiritual and intellectual maturity grow from differences. A distributed church uses contrasts to accomplish kingdom purposes.” “There are many parts, yet one body,” the Bible says (1 Corinthians 12:20, ESV). Parts of Northland meet as Distributed churches in Central Florida (Longwood, Mount Dora and Oviedo) and online throughout the world for worship, fellowship and to be regularly distributed in service to their local communities.

Worship Times Saturdays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 p.m. Sundays . . . . . 9 (hi)(sp), 11 a.m.(sp); 6 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)

northlandchurch.net

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.