Ministry Profile By Danielle Street
“While all the ministries are extremely valuable at FAC, I’m excited to highlight one now that is very dear to my heart. It’s called The Connection newsletter.” Read more on pg 26.
F E L LOWS H I P A L L I A N C E C H A P E L|M E D FO R D, N J| O C TO B E R 2014
CONTENTS FAC NEWSLETTER
arty
stor M rom Pa f e g a s es
e s c r n e e r e k f f Di ma
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AM
▶▶I MINISTRIES
5 The Benevolent Center
7 Marriage Seminar
8 Trunked Treats
9 Middle School Ministry Grades 5-8
20
10 High School Ministry
Grades 9-12
11 Young Adult Ministry Ages 18-24
22
12 Men@FAC
13 Toy & Clothing Exchange
14 Women@FAC
17 Plug-in groups
28 Pastoral Care Ministries
29 Facts & Figures
30 Ministry Directory
26
▶▶I FEATURES
4 6
A Message from Pastor Marty Berglund
Worship Services
“Encouragement for the Journey,” by Laurie Berglund
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JOY Retirement-aged men and women
18
God@Work in the Life of...
Chuck Watson
20 22 24
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Reflections: Camp FAC
Missions: FASA
New Staff
Lauren Brown, Tess Scaffidi
Ministry Profile: The Connection
Saturday: 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Nursery and Kids’ Bible Study (KBS) are provided during every service for babies through fourth graders. Ask a greeter for directions to classes. Friendship Class for teens and adults with special needs meets during the 9:00 a.m. service in Room B-10. Interpretation for the hearing impaired is available during the 11:00 a.m. worship services.
News & Notes Guest Receptions To learn more about FAC and how to get connected, attend a Guest Reception. Guest Receptions are held every week after each worship service in the Family Room. No registration is necessary. Just join us! We would love to have the opportunity to get to know you and answer your questions!
Good $ense Classes
Angel Tree is Coming Soon!
Begins Oct. 14 (6 Tuesday nights)
Starting the second week in November, names of our Angel Tree families will be displayed in the Welcome Center.
Open to everyone, the Good $ense class discusses how you can honor God with your finances by applying Biblical principles. It offers help with developing a budget, tracking daily finances, or just giving confirmation that you are doing the right things. To register, go to www.myfac.org/register. If you have questions, contact Phil Morgan, goodsense@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x302.
Please start talking now with your family or small group about “adopting” one of the Angel Tree families for Christmas. The names will be displayed for three to four weeks or as long as they last. Look for more information in The Connection next month.
A Message from Pastor Marty
Difference s r e k a m Dear Church Family, If you want to make a difference in the world, you can. However, many American Christians I’ve met in the last 40 years don’t seem to think they can. They don’t even realize that their thinking is contrary to Jesus’ teaching. (Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:8) Yes, that’s right! Jesus believed you and I as Christians could — and should — seek to change the world. How? By making disciples! Christians who don’t make disciples are not making much difference for Christ like they could and should. You and I need to be more focused on this. Have you noticed in recent contemporary history that terrorist groups like Al Qaeda, Hamas, and ISIS, just to mention a few, are changing our world? How do they do it? A lot of their control comes from fear they instill into their recruits — many who will willingly blow themselves up with a bomb strapped to their body so that they can kill innocent people in mass numbers. How do they get their young people to blow themselves up? They do it by teaching and training in their ideology and theology. They give them something to live and die for and a way to make a difference. Are American educators teaching our youth they can make a difference? Do most of our schools teach theology or ideology that gives meaning and purpose to life? Or are they saying, “Go for your personal, selfdetermined dreams! You can do it if you try!” The answers are obvious. We have stopped making disciples; the Muslims haven’t. They win the cultural war, and we lose. Radical Muslims know that most Americans live to please themselves. They hate us and believe that they have a better ideology and a better plan for the world than we do. They believe they can bring more meaning and purpose to life than Christians do. Now, if we had a revival and Christians began living for the meaning and purpose of the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33), and if we would make disciples like Jesus told us to do (Matthew 28:18-20), then we would have the power (Acts 1:8) to change the world as the Christians did in the book of Acts. What a difference we would make for ourselves and generations to come! Come on, Christians, join me and many others by using your life to be a differencemaker. How? Make disciples! How can we do that? It’s simple: just teach and train others what you have learned and are learning from God. You can do it! God says you can do it! Make a difference. Love never fails, Pastor Marty
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel
Make friends with Pastor Marty Berglund
“... If we had a revival and Christians began living for the meaning and purpose of the Kingdom of God and if we would make disciples like Jesus told us to do, then we would have the power to change the world....”
The Benevolent Center
You’re Invited to Attend Our Open House: Oct. 19 and 26 The Benevolent Center was created to be a place where the members of our congregation and community could come when they are in need of help. We provide limited emergency financial assistance as well as being the first stop for all of the other ministries that fall under Benevolent Ministries, such as the Food Pantry, Crew 318, Good Sense, and Fresh Hope Auto. At the Benevolent Center, people meet with a volunteer, share their personal story, and make known their need. The volunteers listen, share, and give guidance and suggestions that may help with the situation. It is our desire to help not only with finances or food, but to also guide people into the loving arms of Jesus. Most of the time that won’t happen directly at the Center. Instead, it happens by getting them plugged into another ministry at the church, such as Alpha, Fresh Hope or even connecting them with a lay counselor. Sometimes all it takes is someone to make them feel welcome and pave the way for them to get plugged in. In 2013, the Benevolent Center helped more than 150 families, half of which were part of FAC already. The other half of those served need to know Jesus. By serving at the Benevolent Center, you can be a part of guiding them to Him. If you have any questions, please send an e-mail to Tracy Cossabone at bencenter@myfac.org.
I accidentally went to a Benevolent Center orientation meeting, and during the next year of volunteering my life changed. I am an Air Force wife and stay-at-home mother, but I knew God had been calling me to serve. At the orientation, I heard about the Food Pantry ministry that serves the FAC family and community. I felt completely ill-equipped at first, but after a few weeks, I couldn’t wait to serve again. Most clients just need someone to show them compassion and to guide them through their difficult situation. Serving three hours a week made me feel energized and spiritually fulfilled. I hope that I have made a difference in the lives of the clients because they have impacted mine. I now understand that God is calling me to be a social worker, and I start school this fall. The other volunteers are amazing, and I truly honor their friendship and spiritual guidance. Looking back, our military assignment to NJ was the shortest we ever had. I truly feel that God placed us in South Jersey so I could find FAC and its vision to help people hear God’s call and follow it. — Victoria Huss
Get Involved! There are two ways you can get involved with the Benevolent Center:
1.
First, become a volunteer. The Center is open on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. We are planning to add an additional day before the end of the year. There will be two Open Houses. On Oct. 19 and 26, you can meet some of the volunteers between services (10:15 to 11:15 a.m.) at the Center where they can tell you more about serving in this ministry.
2.
Second, the funds used in this ministry come from the Love in Action/Benevolence Fund. By designating a part of your tithe to this fund, you are helping all those who come to the Benevolent Center.
October 2014 | Connection
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Encouragement for the
Journey
T
his month, you’re going to be hearing a lot during the weekend services about connecting to God’s people. The most powerful connection we’ll ever make in our lives is when we connect to God and begin following Him. Without that connection, everything else in our lives is meaningless and empty. So connecting to God reshapes our lives forever. But that’s only the beginning. When we begin our relationship with God, we come home to the place where we always belonged and in that home dwells God’s family — of which we’re now a part. That’s really what church is all about! Connecting to God’s family is one of the most important ways we can grow in our walk with God. Because God is Spirit and we are flesh, it’s difficult to see or touch or hear Him — and we all desperately need that. That’s why He created a family and invited us to belong to it. It’s through the love and connections with His family that we truly get to know Him and become more like Him. This isn’t something that happens in isolation. There are so many ways to connect to God’s people, but one of my favorite ways is by listening to them tell stories of how He is at work in their lives. These stories are part of my story because we all belong in the same family. Each of us in the family was created in God’s image so part of His nature and character is revealed in the redeemed parts of all of our lives. That means each person I connect to in God’s family gives me another unique peek into what the Father is like. Every story I hear helps me understand another dimension of God’s love and involvement in our lives. Every family member I open my heart to pulls me in closer to Jesus’ heart. Often I can hear His voice more clearly through the words of His people. That’s why I LOVE doing God@Work stories and helping the people in my family connect with each other and with God by celebrating what He’s doing in our lives.
“
There are so many ways to connect to God’s people, but one of my favorite ways is by listening to them tell stories of how He is at work in their lives.
”
I never get tired of being part of the wonder of God stooping down to love us through Jesus and through His people. I don’t even like to imagine the kind of person I would be if not for the connections I have had with God’s family for my whole life. I hope you’re finding intentional ways of pursuing those relationships that will nourish and change your life forever! Laurie Berglund
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel
Marriage Ministry
Oct. 9 and 12
(Identical Workshops)
The topic for this workshop will be Conflict Resolution. There will be small groups with practice sessions. Attendance is limited to 30 people per session.
Choose from either of these identical sessions: Oct. 9: Thursday workshop will be at 7:00 pm. in the Chapel. (Register by Oct. 5) Oct. 12: Sunday workshop will be at 9:00 a.m. at our 184 Church Road location. (Register by Oct. 9) Childcare will not be on-site, but you may send an e-mail to Pastor Brent Brendle (brentb@myfac.org). He will forward your request to a teen who has been approved for caring for your children. To register, go to www.myfac.org/marriage. Also on our website, you can see other resources under “Marriage & Weddings.� For questions regarding the Marvelous Marriage Workshops, contact Pastor Brent Brendle, 609-953-7333, x129, or brentb@myfac.org.
Additional Upcoming Marvelous Marriage Workshops Dates: Nov. 12 and 16 Topic: Apology and Forgiveness Look for more information in the next issue of this newsletter.
October 2014 | Connection
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Children, Babies through Fourth Graders
Trunked Treats Fri., Oct. 24 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Come as early as 5:00 to tailgate! Every year, right around Halloween, the FAC parking lot has been turned into a festive alternative to traditional trick-or-treating for our kids. Trunked Treats is the perfect opportunity to invite our friends and neighbors for a visit! What a fun chance to show the community that church people love to dress up and eat candy too!
We need your help! To make this a huge success, we need as many trunks as possible. Please consider sponsoring a car (or two or three). Get your family, friends, miniChurch members, and other groups to join the fun. Come early and decorate your cars and set up your own tailgate party! Bring decorations, tables, chairs, grills, and food. Trunked Treats is from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., but you can come as early as 5:00. You and your family won’t want to miss this! For more information, pick up Trunked Treat flyers in the Welcome Center or contact Julie Durdin, Julie@myfac.org.
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel
Middle School Ministry
Level 5 & Planet 678 Planet 678 P ool
Level 5 for Grade 5 Planet 678 for Grades 6, 7, & 8
Par ty
For Grades
5-8
Both groups meet on Sunday nights from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Medford Middle School. Student drop-off is at 55 Mill St. in Medford. There are great games, a message from God’s Word, worship, snacks, and hangout times.
Grapple for Grades 5, 6, 7
Grapple, the Sunday morning service for Grades 5, 6, and 7, meets at the Red Barn during the 9:00 and 11:00 services. During Grapple, the students are encouraged to ask difficult questions that they may not be able to ask anywhere else. Grapple includes a time of worship, a message, and small-group discussions. Note: Grapple will not be held on Nov. 30, Dec. 21, Dec. 28, or Jan. 4.
Rock Solid for Grades 6, 7, 8 Kickoff Date: Oct. 7 – continuing every Tuesday in October and November 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel Rock Solid is an opportunity to learn more about the Bible through lessons on practical ways to read, understand, and apply Biblical principles in their life!
Student Leadership for Eighth Graders
Kickoff Date: Oct. 7 (Meetings follow the Rock Solid schedule) Student Leadership is an opportunity for eighth graders to be challenged in servant leadership in different aspects of their life.
Get Involved!
We will meet right after the Rock Solid meetings, which are recommended for our eighth grade leadership members, from 5:00 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday afternoons in October and November. If interested, students must fill out an application. Not only will there be some fun homework assignments, but it will be a fantastic chance for students to grow together and to begin taking leadership roles in the ministry!
Are you interested in helping with the Middle School Ministry?
Black Ice — Jan. 3-4, 2015
If you think God wants you to be a part of the Middle School Ministry by helping us embrace, equip, and encourage students in their walk with Christ, we would love to talk to you and help you explore ways that you can be involved.
If you have questions, contact the Middle School Staff:
Oct. 24
This winter, we are going to a new retreat center in PA called High Point Camp. This retreat is a great way to end your winter break and get ready to kick off the New Year!
Nov. 14
Sign up online, registration ends Dec. 5: www.myfac.org/register.
Fusion Nights Be sure to sign up for grade-specific events online at www.myfac.org/register:
Oct. 3
Trip to Trampoline Park for sixth graders Rock climbing for seventh graders Rock climbing for eighth graders
$105 — early bird price, ends Oct. 31 Grades 6, 7, and 8
Pick up a calendar in the Welcome Center or check us out on the website at www.myfac.org.
Eddie Jurimas: eddie@myfac.org, 609-953-7333, x104 Russ Batten: russ@myfac.org, 609-953-7333, x134 Jeremy McAlack: jeremym@myfac. org, 609-953-7333, x122 October 2014 | Connection
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High School Ministry
Youth Impact
Insight Continues! Join us on Monday nights during the fall from 7:00 to 9:00 for Insight! This is our regular High School Ministry meeting where we hang out, have some fun, enjoy some worship music and a message from God’s Word. Don’t miss this chance to spend time with other high school students from around the area.
For Grades
9-12
NOTE: No Insight on Oct. 27.
Fall Retreat at Northbay Adventure Camp Dates: Oct. 24 to 26 Registration closes: Mon., Oct. 13 Cost: $165.00
We’re trying a new place this year and heading to Maryland for a weekend retreat at Northbay Adventure Camp. The camp has three ropes courses, two ziplines, an indoor rock climbing wall, a three-person giant swing, hiking trails, fishing spots, a game room, hang-out areas, a snack bar, and great food. The weekend will include a great lesson from the Bible. Join us for a weekend with your friends at this new, awesome location for our High School Fall Retreat! Registration closes Mon., Oct. 13.
Youth Alpha
Feeding 5000
Youth Alpha continues to meet every Wednesday night from 6:30 to 8:30 at FAC. Come for food, fellowship, and a chance to ask the tough questions about God, your purpose, and your life in general. Bring your friends!
Get Involved! Volunteering with the High School Ministry Interested in making a difference in the lives of our high school students? We’d love for you to be a part of our ministry! For more information about the opportunities, contact Pastor Mike Williams, 609-953-7333, x108, or mike@myfac.org.
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel
Sat., Nov. 8, 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Be a volunteer to help serve homeless people. We will meet at FAC and then head into Philly to offer food, clothes, and prayer for those who come out. This is a great opportunity for us as a group to give back to God in a very practical, meaningful way. If you have questions about Feeding 5000, contact Pastor Mike Williams, 609-953-7333, x108, or mike@myfac.org.
Becoming a Part of the Worship Team for Insight Are you in high school? Do you play an instrument or sing? Would you like a chance to use your gifts within the High School Ministry? We would love to have you audition for our Worship Team! Applications for the High School Worship Team can be picked up at Insight on Monday nights, or you can contact Nick Mendillo, 609-953-7333, x133, or nickm@myfac.org.
Young Adult Ministry Are you a young adult, 18 to 24 years old, who would like to join a group of Believers your age? Would you like to deepen your relationship with God? Look no further than Sojourn — FAC’s young adult ministry! We meet on the first and third Fridays of each month at 7:00 p.m. For October, join us on Oct. 3 and 17 at the Red Barn on Hwy. 541 near the church. You can expect great fellowship, relevant teaching, and a trusting environment.
Upcoming Events • •
Nov. 26: Thanksgiving Eve Bash December: Winter Service Project (more information available soon)
If you have questions about Sojourn, contact Kyle Bahm, kyleb@myfac.org. Also check out Sojourn on the Hub at www.myfac.org.
For ages 18 to 24 October 2014 | Connection
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Men@FAC
Band of Brothers
Men’s Breakfast Wednesday mornings in the Sanctuary 6:30 a.m. We are currently studying the series “Shattered: What Life Breaks, God Reassembles.” Simply put, there are times when our lives break into pieces that we assume cannot be used — ever. It seems impossible to us, but God never fails to use all of our lives for His glory. This fall, join the Men of FAC at our weekly men’s breakfast as we work through the ways God puts the mess back together. We will be working through a variety of facets of a man’s life, including finances, careers, parenting, and marriage. Strategically positioned in the middle of the week, Band of Brothers is a perfect way to stay connected. Never a need to register — just show up! If you have questions, contact Michael More’ at dembums1@gmail.com.
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel
VisionQuest Everyone has two things: a past and a story. And God uses it all. On most Tuesday nights, men and women gather to speak with wayward young men and women at a local facility called VisionQuest. Why? Because if they don’t, who will? It’s a powerful time when men and women from FAC use their personal stories to help create a better future and hope for the 12 to 18-year-olds who are one step away from prison. It’s dynamic. It’s edgy. It’s powerful. And it’s rewarding. You can be a part of introducing hope into what could otherwise be their last chance. Contact Eric Davis for details, davisnj5@verizon.net.
Mom's Time Out
Toy & Clothing Exchange Tues., Oct. 7 | Fellowship Alliance Chapel Sanctuary Drop off: 5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Shopping: 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
All items are FREE!
Please note: Children will not be permitted to attend. Items: Clothing, sizes Newborn to 14/16| Children’s equipment | Toys
Here's how it works: •
•
Donations of children’s clothing, equipment, or toys can be dropped off between 5:30 and 7:15 p.m. Note: It is very helpful if donations are sorted by size and gender. After donations are delivered, you can wait in the Welcome Center until the doors open for shopping. (Drop, shop, or do both!)
• •
Bring your own shopping bags ― or a truck if you are in need of large items. All remaining items will be donated to charity. If you have questions, contact Debbie Schneck, 609-953-7333, x125, or debbie@myfac.org. October 2014 | Connection
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Women@FAC
Faithfully Fit
Fresh Hope
Faithfully Fit is a Christ-centered health and wellness program in which members are encouraged to achieve balance in four essential areas of their life: emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical. This program is more than a weight-loss program; it is about making lifestyle changes that encourage balance in every area of your life.
Fresh Hope would like to invite you to join them monthly for dinner, teaching, encouragement and fun. Upcoming dates are:
Classes will be meeting bi-weekly on Thursday mornings at FAC, beginning Oct. 2, and will run for six sessions, from 9:30 to 11:30. During this semester, we will be utilizing the curriculum from Made to Crave, by Lysa Terkeurst. We will also have additional information about nutrition and exercise to help you in your journey.
Fresh Hope meets one Sunday evening each month from 5:00 to 8:00. Dinner is provided for you and your children. There will be children/youth programs available through the church, including Kid’s Clubs, Level 5, and Planet 678. Childcare will be provided for those children who are too young to participate in the FAC Sunday evening programs.
You can join the group at any time. Find us online at www.myfac.org. Go to Get Connected for Women; then to Faithfully Fit.
Fresh Hope is for women who want to connect, support, and encourage one another in the journey of single motherhood. Fresh Hope is also an outlook – a realization that God knows, He cares, and He is working through difficult circumstances.
A Health & Wellness Ministry
To register, go to www.myfac.org/register. Cost is $25.00 and includes a book and a workbook. If you have questions, contact Shelley Summerville, shelleysummerville@verizon.net.
Oct. 26 Nov. 23
There is no cost to attend Fresh Hope. Note: Please register your children and yourself prior to the meetings, www.myfac.org/freshhope. You may also contact Debbie Schneck, 609-953-7333, x125, or debbie@myfac.org.
Renewing the hearts of women through the unconditional love of a Savior
our community. It is our prayer that these events will help everyone to fully experience God’s grace!
First event: Oct. 3, 7:00 p.m. In the Sanctuary
Please consider joining us for our first event on Fri., Oct. 3, at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. We will enjoy worship, fellowship, a wonderful speaker, and yummy desserts!
Born out of the Women’s Retreat, God has crafted a new ministry called Walking in Grace. It is a chance for women to strengthen their relationship with Christ and their sisters. It is a time to be completely transparent, to have an open heart and mind, and to be free of all judgment in a place that is totally safe and welcoming — freed by the love of Christ. We will be holding events throughout the year for the women within our church, their friends, family, and
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A Ministry for Single Moms
Fellowship Alliance Chapel
Please register for Walking in Grace so we can be prepared for you, www.myfac.org/register. The cost for this event is $5.00. Take some time to pray about the women you could invite to join you. We’d love for you to bring a friend or two! If you have questions, contact Lisa Russell, Events Ministry Coordinator, 609-519-7057.
Deepening Groups A Deepening group offers an accepting, long-term, safe community that allows its members the freedom for open and honest sharing. The groups work together to explore transformation through a four-component spiritual formation process:
1. 2. 3.
Adopting the Narratives of Jesus will most likely involve challenging and changing your understanding (narratives) of who God is and who you are to God as Jesus reveals His Father to us.
Practicing Soul Training Exercises are designed to deepen and enrich our minds, body, and soul with the truth of the character of God through a spiritual formation process.
Participating in Community is the centerpiece of The Deepening ministry. Group members come to expect and rely on the encouragement, affirmations, acceptance, and challenges shared within the Deepening groups.
4.
Transformation Empowered by the Holy Spirit emphasizes the components of change that occur when the work of the Holy Spirit is in the midst of us. The Deepening groups embrace the Holy Spirit as our essential advocate who navigates us through the process of transformation. Together we seek to increase our ability to hear, trust, respond to, and utterly rely on the Spirit’s guidance and direction.
If you have been led to seek a group that will encourage and challenge you to become the person God created you to be and if you desire to support and serve others to become all that God intended them to be and if you are driven to pursue your place and purpose in the Kingdom of God, The Deepening is designed to offer that and more.
Joining a Deepening Group:
As a participant in a Deepening group, you will meet weekly at the same time and same place as a way to develop a deepening community experience. To maximize this experience, your commitment to meet on an ongoing, regular basis is necessary. To start the process of joining a Deepening group, go to www.myfac.org, click “Get Connected” – “For Women” – “Deepening Groups” and complete the Deepening Group Participant Interest Form. Once your form is submitted, you will be contacted by a Group Facilitator and matched with a group. Deepening groups are formed as facilitators become available, which may take up to three months. If after reading the information provided on the website you have questions or concerns about the Deepening experience, contact Carol Batten, carol@myfac.org, or Lisa Kletkewicz, 2boys4life@comcast.net.
Heart to Heart New Series: Hope & Healing
Life hurts. We struggle. God cares. In the Hope & Healing series, we will explore God's Word for answers to our pain, apply His truths to our lives to begin the process of healing, and utilize relationships to encourage each another. Classes will begin in the spring of 2015. Join the H2H Happenings on the HUB for the latest details.
October 2014 | Connection
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Retirement-aged Adults
JOY
for Retirement-aged Men and Women Reflections on Our Intergenerational Summer Dessert Social The idea for the social actually came about because of a couple of things. We had been reading several books about intergenerational churches. We discovered that for the last 50 years the American church has separated its people by age primarily for educational reasons in the same way our schools do. We discovered that while this may aid some kinds of learning, it also can bring detrimental results. In fact, some researchers believe that a major contributing reason many teens go off to college and never return to church is because they have never developed relationships with adults of varying ages where they see faith in God acted out up close in many real life situations. The various ages don’t experience life together anymore like they used to do. FAC does better than many churches with this. We have things like family VBS and family missions trips that help a lot, but can we do more? We began to wonder how we in our ministry could begin to implement some of those ideas. We were involved with a special Mother’s Day Brunch at Care One in which many of our teens served the residents there. As we watched them interact with the residents, we realized that it would be an easy thing to do something like that at JOY. Then we read Laurie Berglund’s article in the newsletter in which she was looking for suggestions on how the generations can work together and understand each other better. The final piece of the puzzle came when one week after the youth band led worship in church, someone said, “We should have them come to JOY some time.” We extended an invitation to them to come to our summer dessert social. The kids were great. They served the desserts and interacted with our group before they led our people in worship. Afterwards they participated in a panel discussion with some of our “more seasoned” members. Questions like, “What is the cheapest price of gasoline or milk you ever remember seeing?” and “What do you think is a common misunderstanding that older adults have about today’s teens?” brought wonderful
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel
discussion and insight to both groups. It was quite entertaining! The members of both groups really enjoyed the day. Many of them asked if we could do it again sometime. We don’t know where all of this might lead, but it is clear to us that this is a good and Biblical path to travel. We will be looking for more opportunities for the various generations to connect to God, each other, and His work together. Every age group has different strengths and weaknesses, and we are a better, stronger church when we can experience life together as one family unit.
— Pastor Glenn Kantner
Transformation and Connecting to God’s People A Message from Pastor Dave Krilov For everyone in a miniChurch or Plug-in Small Group, I hope you are enjoying the CONNECT series! I hope, too, that the series is helping you build deeper relationships and aiding in Jesus’ transformation of you. Keep up the good work! As Scripture repeatedly reminds us, God uses the Christian community to bring about necessary change in our lives. Ephesians 4:15-16 says, “Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” At FAC, we want to make disciples who allow Jesus to transform their lives and then be part of the work of helping other disciples have their lives transformed by Jesus. Of course, all of this happens within loving relationships in the church. And this is exactly what we’re trying to do in our miniChurches and Plug-in Small Groups! So, great job in being a part of one of these groups! But, don’t merely just attend. This month, your group will be in Sessions 3-6, examining what it means to be connecting to God’s people. Ask Jesus to transform you as you meet with others and work your way through the CONNECT discussion guide together! In Him,
Our Food Pantry The Food Pantry serves those in our area who are experiencing difficult times. Your donations make a difference to them and serve as an opportunity to show that God loves them. It is easy to help! Just place nonperishable food and cleaning supplies in the Food Pantry boxes in the hallways leading to the Sanctuary. Here is a list of suggested items for donation: • Peanut butter • Jelly • Cereal • Pasta • Spaghetti sauce • Canned fruit • Canned vegetables • Tuna • Canned chicken • Instant mashed potatoes • Rice • Stuffing • Soup • Bath and cleaning products • Other non-perishable items “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat….Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” [Matthew 25:35, 40]
Pastor Dave
October 2014 | Connection
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GOD@WORK …
in the life of Chuck Watson
Not
Poli ics as usual In
t he spring 2009, I finished 13 years as a high school youth leader at FAC. It was sad to leave a ministry I loved so much, but I was excited to see where God would lead me next. I began looking for places to serve. Even before becoming a Christian [33 years ago], serving was always a big part of my life — in high school as a Boy Scout, for 24 years as a volunteer fireman in Medford, and in several ministries at FAC. I thought God would quickly open another door, but He had other plans, including teaching me about waiting on Him. For close to two years I prayed; my wife Cathy prayed; and others at FAC prayed for God to show me a clear direction. Cathy told me several times that it would probably be something I never expected.
In the spring of 2011, I received a phone call from a friend who was active in local politics. He was running for a Medford Council position with two other people. One of them was dropping out of the race, and he wanted to know if I would run with them. I was more than a little surprised! I said I would talk to my wife and let him know. When I got home and told Cathy, she got a funny look on her face and left the room. I was a little confused, to say the least. She quickly came back with her In Touch devotional from that day on Proverbs 3. Charles Stanley’s commentary said, “Therefore, if He has allowed a situation, there is a divine plan and reason, and the outcome will be for our good and His glory.” She said, “This opportunity is the answer to your prayers. God just want you to serve “After all, God was calling might him by serving Medford.” me to this so how could I With that in mind, how could I say “no”?
During this period of waiting, I started attending Medford Township Council meetings. I was on the Board of our homeowners association and possibly lose?” wanted to be more informed The next morning, I went about what was going on in to an interview with the Medford and how it might affect my neighborhood. local campaign committee. The first question I was I rarely missed a meeting and was asked by several asked was, “So tell us a little about yourself.” Totally people why I always went. I even asked myself that unplanned, I replied, “The first thing you should at times. I never expected what the answer to that know about me is that my faith, my family, and my question would really be: God was using this to integrity come before anything else. If this isn’t prepare me for the answer to all of those prayers. what you are looking for, then I’m not your guy.” I thought, “They will never pick me now.” Later I
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was told this statement actually had a very positive impact. I got the call the same day that they wanted me on the team. There were three of us running against three others in the Primary. I was running for a two-year term against Randy Pace, who also attends FAC. Another candidate on his team was Chris Buoni who also goes to FAC! Both sides ran a civil and fair campaign. With three men running who know the Lord, I don’t think that’s any coincidence. As campaigning got into full swing, I had a team of men praying for my journey. I was knocking on doors almost every day and meeting a lot of people. I had many opportunities to share about why I was running — not only about the issues facing Medford, but about my faith and the part that it played in my decision to run. On Primary Day, June 6, 2011, I spent the morning in front of Wawa reminding people to vote. I spoke with my supporters throughout the day expressing confidence in our victory. After all, God was calling me to this so how could I possibly lose? Well guess what, we lost. It was pretty close but Randy Pace and his team beat us. I was confused to say the least. I couldn’t stop thinking, “God, after making it so clear to me that this was Your plan, why would You bring me this far and allow me to lose?” I felt like after two years, it was back to the drawing board. While I never really said it out loud, there was a feeling that God broke His promise to me. I was so sure that this was what He told me to do and I couldn’t understand what it all meant now. A week later, I was having coffee with my son-inlaw, Erik Vagen, who was the young adult pastor at FAC. His comment gave me a new perspective. He said, “Chuck, if you are so sure that this is what God called you to do, then you can’t stop. You need to keep doing what you have been doing.” This was very encouraging, but also very challenging - encouraging that maybe God wasn’t finished yet, but challenging that I would have to continue going to meetings. Throughout the spring, summer, and fall, I continued attending council meetings. The general election in November proved victorious for Chris, Randy, and Frank (their running mate). With all the changes happening, two other Councilmen, whose terms were not up, resigned. It was now December, and there were two additional spots open. I put my name in and was interviewed by the current council. They gave the appointment to someone else. I wasn’t overly disappointed as I was used to things not happening my way by this point. One more spot was now open, but there was a slight problem. The men I ran against would be the ones making that appointment.
Chuck and Cathy Watson
Late in December, I was driving home from work and a thought popped into my mind: “Stop at Randy Pace’s house.” I quickly dismissed that as crazy. A few miles down the road, the same thought came with the same dismissal. It happened a few more times, and I ignored it again. Ultimately, God got through, and I knocked on Randy’s door that afternoon. I told him I was seeking the appointment that he and his team would be making. All I asked was his consideration. I told him either way I would support them, continue to go to meetings, and be involved wherever needed. We talked a bit about FAC, and I left. I attended the Jan. 4, 2012, council meeting and watched the new Councilmen get sworn in. There were three of us being publicly interviewed for the open position. After a few questions, some very pointed, I was appointed unanimously and sworn in with my wife holding the Bible. Think about this. I was appointed by the men I had run against and was sworn in on the same day I would have been sworn in if I had won the election back in June!
“God never broke His promise. He led me to exactly where He wanted me to serve. He did it in His perfect timing and in a way that taught me to trust Him more.”
God never broke His promise. He led me to exactly where He wanted me to serve. He did it in His perfect timing and in a way that taught me to trust Him more. Along the way, He also gave me two Christian brothers to serve with on the Council. Cathy was right: this was something I never expected! Thankfully, God is the One writing my story, not me.
October 2014 | Connection
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Reflections:
Camp FAC
Another great summer of fun and connections! The mission of FAC is to connect people to God, His people, and His work. A huge resource used to accomplish that during the summer was Camp FAC. At Camp FAC, there were worship services, community days, and baptisms throughout this summer, giving many people in the community the chance to see God at work.
One way that Camp FAC has served as an outreach to the community is through the Sunday morning worship services. Greeters, worship leaders, and many other volunteers came together to help run and organize these services. “FAC wanted to be more intentional about using the camp to reach the community. One of the ways they wanted to do this was by holding church services at the camp next to the lake for 12 weeks during the summer,” Jody Adams explained. “I was asked to be part of the preaching rotation as well as one of the worship leaders and one of the planners for the services. What a great opportunity to reach new people for the Kingdom of God!” The services included acoustic-style music and then a sermon, which focused on the Gospel of John. Jody Adams, Paul Cerak, Rich Kotecki, and Rick Kushay shared the responsibility of preaching throughout the summer.
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“I have held a number of events at the camp through the Men’s Ministry and through my miniChurch as well as helped out at church events like the baptism services held during the summer the past couple of years,” Rick Kushay said. “Most recently I have been part of a preaching team that held services at the camp throughout the summer. I think God has been moving powerfully at the camp. The atmosphere of being outdoors in God’s creation just makes one feel closer to God. I can just see how relaxed and comfortable everyone is as we dig into God’s Word and allow Him to speak to us.” Volunteers also assisted with greeting during the Sunday morning services. They provided donuts, bagels, coffee, and refreshments each weekend. “My role at the camp pretty much has been as a greeter for the Sunday morning worship services. I also picked up donuts and bagels and got the coffee and water set up for a time of fellowship after the service,” Bob Lee said. “The Sunday morning worship services were just a special place with the backdrop of the lake and the cross and the great teaching from our lay pastors, along with the wonderful worship music. It just seemed like the Scriptures came alive.” “This summer, I served on the team that hosted the Sunday morning church services. The team included hostesses, musicians, teachers, childcare, and others. I offered to do whatever was needed, which involved planning, breaking down equipment, and prayer,” Chuck Pederson explained. “When I heard about FAC's desire to offer services at the lake, I was immediately interested. One of the underlying movements at FAC is to follow Jesus in "going anywhere" and "doing anything" to share His teaching. To that extent, I viewed the services at the lake as a summer church plant. This became a temporary outpost for encouraging Believers in their faith and inviting anyone to come and hear.” “God affirms our faith and the Spirit's indwelling in our hearts as we serve in Jesus’ name. So I simply testify that I experienced this principle while serving this summer. My love for people remained tender as I saw Believers encouraged in their faith. My longing for people outside the church to discover a powerful relationship with Jesus grew stronger,” Chuck added. Those who volunteered not only got to enjoy the camp services, but they were
able to see God truly at work in the lives of the individuals who attended the services. From people accepting Christ to others being encouraged in their faith, lives were truly transformed through Camp FAC. “One woman came who was having a lot of problems. Chuck Pederson’s wife spent a great deal of time talking with her and loving her. Another young man came who was an alcoholic and had had some involvement with the church in the past. After the service, someone spoke with him and offered help. The next week I heard that the young man had checked himself into a rehab center to help him with his drinking problem. There were many other stories of how people’s lives were impacted by these services,” Rick Kushay said. Everyone who volunteered also had the opportunity to see God at work in their own lives and were able to see how God can use their own individual gifts to help others at the camp. “I have been a greeter at the camp since we opened. This year, I also started a craft hour on Fridays, and I worked with the team that provided a worship service at the camp each Sunday through the summer,” explained Susan Bartholomew. “God has taught me many things about Himself and His work through this experience. First, I was reminded week after week that many, many people in our world are truly hungry for Him. And I was reminded of how simple it can be to do God's work. As many get airline tickets, passports, and immunizations to share the Gospel overseas, I drove a few miles, put on some sunscreen, and sat in a beach chair — and the people came to me! I also learned that even on my busiest of weeks if I sacrificed my time to Him, He more than made up for what I gave Him. I always left camp knowing that the time spent there was worth it!” Throughout the summer, Camp FAC served as a place of outreach for community members and offered many opportunities for spiritual growth through its church services. “I experienced the faithfulness of God and His promises as I sought and was met with His guidance and peace when my natural bent at times would have been to feel anxious and ill-equipped for the roles I had taken on. As I stepped through this open door, I discovered new blessings that came with stepping out of my comfort zone and joining a community of others who are
willing to walk with me in my desire to follow God’s call in my life,” Janet Worrell said. “As a community of loving hearts gathered together and working with each other, weeds and thorns were removed through steady determination. Docks were rebuilt on firm foundations. As new sand replaced the old, life poured back into the stagnant water, giving way for God to use it for its intended purpose — to further His Kingdom.” ☐
— Danielle Reed October 2014 | Connection
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FASA — Reporting Live! …well, almost
IN
september, a team from FAC traveled to Lephalale, South Africa, with FASA to train leaders, minister to children and adults, and continue to build relationships with the church leaders at Living Waters Church. They participated in day rallies with the kids where they had more than 400 students for one rally and 1200 students at the second! They also fed the homeless, participated in training seminars, and much more.
As you can see from these excerpts from the blogs posted during the trip, God worked powerfully in and through this team.
Excerpt from the blog of Suzzanne Kim Chung
The FASA team has been in South Africa for a little over 24 hours, and God’s blessings have already been so abundant! I am so privileged and humbled to be a part of such an amazing team of Christ-followers. I am praying for the Holy Spirit to give me words to what I witnessed and experienced at church this morning because there just aren’t any words to describe the glory and splendor of God that were present here today. We went to Living Waters Church where Pastor Billy and his wife Wendy are doing an amazing job of shepherding their congregation. This month is Women’s Month in South Africa so the whole service was led by an all-female worship team. These young women were on fire for Jesus. They were living testimonies of people who have clearly heard God’s call and are following Him with a passion and purity like I’ve never seen before. Through songs, prayer, dancing, sharing of Scripture, and personal testimony, we were ushered into the presence of Almighty God. There
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“
The impoverishment is so extensive. Even those who can get general labor employment only earn $.70 to $1.00 per hour.
”
was an altar call at the end of service. With outstretched arms and humble hearts, people came forward. I was beside myself bearing witness to the glory of God. I was so profoundly moved by the Spirit I could literally barely talk. What happened in my heart and spirit took my breath and voice away. I am forever changed by my South African brothers and sisters and their love for Jesus. I am fighting back the tears as I am trying to wrap this blog up because I just don’t know how I am going to leave this place.
I want you all to know that God is doing amazing work here at Living Waters Church. He is using people from FAC and Living Waters to bring about change and transformation to people’s lives — all for His glory, His purpose, and His kingdom! I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing here.
Excerpt from the blog of Kurt Jarvis Last night, we joined the Living Waters Church team for the community soup and bread run to the homeless and actually also to the street prostitutes. Living Waters Church does this outreach every week and makes gallons of soup they distribute weekly. It is so sad when the team women individually talk with the prostitutes and ask how they can pray for them. The answer almost all the time is that God would provide a job so they don’t have to do this anymore. The impoverishment is so extensive. Even those who can get general labor employment only earn $.70 to $1.00 per hour. These women have children to feed and see no other way to make money. It is so incredibly sad and brings the old saying vividly to life, “Unless you have walked in another person’s shoes.... “ There were so many homeless men who came to this town looking for work and just have no place to live and cannot always get work. They end up on the streets and are desperate for even one meal a week of soup and bread. The team did a Bible skit for them of the story of Joseph, who spent years in prison before God’s plan for his life was revealed. His story offers hope and
encouragement. They loved it, and the team had so much fun doing the skit. Those who have jobs work 10 to 12 hours a day, and if they can get work, will work 7 days a week. They set up a shelter to live in at night in the squatter camps where they get boards and tin pieces to form a square with a semblance of a roof. The sections make a central fire pit at night where they gather to get some warmth before going to sleep.
Excerpts from the blog of Beth Hackett School rally Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.” This verse struck home this morning when the FASA team had the privilege of going into a public government school and telling the story of Jesus, singing songs about Jesus, teaching Bible verses, and playing Bible games. What an incredible opportunity to be a part of “training up a child,” and in this situation, more than 400 children for three hours. And there was the added privilege of exposing their teachers to exciting Bible teaching and training techniques. The morning was a thrill, big time. To say the team was mobbed falls short of the experience. We all high-fived, hugged, and just loved the 400 kids. They got to touch the blond hair of Bernice, Tammy, and Beth but failed to get to run their hands through Dave’s white hair at his 6’5” height, but they hugged his legs. What a terrific time! Institute Class: Bible Memory Class number two this evening was Bible Memory. Thirty-six attended in spite of this being a holiday weekend for Lephalale. The class was incredibly responsive and demonstrated so well their grasping of the training concepts. The class finished with each breakout group planning a Bible memory for all ages in their church. Wow! American churches should have such planned Bible memory programs! ☐
To learn more about FASA
If you would like to hear and see more stories and pictures, plan to attend the next FASA celebration night. Join the FASA group on The Hub, www.myfac.org, for all the details. October 2014 | Connection
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And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord. (Luke 1:45 KJV)
Focus on New Staff Member Lauren Brown When did you begin working at the church? July 7, 2014 What is your position and what does that entail? Administrative Assistant for Pastor Marty and the pastors in the 197 Office Building
What is the most important thing to you about your job? Being their support and being able to serve in this position
What do you hope to accomplish through your position? If I can help lighten
the work load of our pastors in any way to allow them to minister more to the people of God and to help build the Kingdom of God, I will feel that my mission is accomplished.
Where are you from? Hamilton, NJ
Tell us some of your favorite things:
When did you accept Christ as your Savior and what were the circumstances? I accepted the Lord as my
1. I love singing, music, Hello Kitty, nail art, pink, leopard, and anything that sparkles. I’m a girly girl, even at 42! 2. Movie: Love Jones 3. Food: Mexican Food 4. Memory: Overcoming breast cancer, finishing chemotherapy, and being well enough to watch my daughter go to her first dance, graduate from middle school, and watching her play her first high school basketball game (She’s a great player); going to my son’s prom and watching him deliver the class speech at graduation (four years as class president). I told you I could go on and on about my children! 2012 was an awesome year! We serve a mighty God. He can’t and will not lie, and I hold on to every promise! He brought my family through my breast cancer, and He showed us that we are more than conquerors. Love truly conquers all things. The best is yet to come!
Savior when I was very young, but I believe I began a relationship with Him in my twenties. I lived in California, and we were going through some tough times. I felt an emptiness, and I knew that I was missing something. I was tired of that feeling. I was desperate! So I joined a local church and got busy seeking God and building our relationship.
Tell us about your family.
I have been married to my Superman for 14 years. My husband is my best friend and my safe place. We have two awesome children: our 20-year-old son, Daniel, who attends Seton Hall University (junior year); and our 17-year-old daughter, Sapphire, who attends Lenape High School (junior year).
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I could go on and on about my kids. I love being their mother! I am their biggest fan.
Fellowship Alliance Chapel
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”
Tess Scaffidi When did you begin working at the church? I began working at FAC in 2011 as an
intern in the youth department. This past June, I began full-time work in the administrative department as an in-house graphic designer.
What is your position and what does that entail? I work with communications and
graphics. This includes designing The Connection, banners, shirts, and other graphics, as well as taking pictures, participating in social media and communications meetings, and helping keep the website up to date.
What is the most important thing to you about your job? The most important
thing is that I use my skills and education to the best of my ability to further God’s Kingdom here in Medford and to do my part in helping FAC communicate clearly and effectively to the congregation and to the community.
What do you hope to accomplish through your position? I hope to be able
to strengthen FAC’s identity by creating and maintaining a consistent and unified style throughout all publications and visual mediums. Though this is my end goal, in the process I hope to be able to take some stress and work off of the ministry leaders by helping them create professional visuals to use for their programs.
Where are you from? Where did you go to school? I’ve lived in Medford since I
was three and have been attending FAC since childhood. I attended Medford Memorial Middle School and then went to The King’s Christian School for high school. I will officially graduate from Rutgers University this December with a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design.
When did you accept Christ as your Savior and what were the circumstances? I grew up in the church
and accepted Christ when I was in elementary school. I made the decision to get baptized when I was 11. Our spiritual lives, of course, are full of ups and downs, but working here at FAC has given me a real support system. It’s a forgiving and loving environment, and I am surrounded by people who are always encouraging me to be more forgiving and loving.
Tell us about your family.
My mom, Lorraine Scaffidi, and my dad, Peter Scaffidi, both attend FAC as well. My mom is the reason we began attending FAC. My mom is a librarian at The King’s Christian School, and my dad co-owns a business called Atlantic Industrial Wood Products as well as runs another small business, Corner Stone Supply Company. I have a twin sister named Kati, who is 23 and just graduated Rutgers University for dance, and an older brother named Joe, who is 25 and graduated from Drexel University for business. I also have a dog named Gizmo. She is adorable.
Tell us some of your favorite things: Book (other than the Bible): Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stowe Movie: Batman Dark Knight, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Tangled are some of my favorites. Food: Italian sausage with mushrooms, onions, and peppers. Best meal ever. Vacation spot: Rock Springs at Kelly Park, Florida. October 2014 | Connection
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Ministry Profile By Danielle Street From left: Laurie Berglund, Donna Thomas, Danielle Street, Sherri Bolognone, Danielle Reed, Tess Scaffidi
or two years, I’ve enjoyed writing in this newsletter about what F God’s been doing in various ministries and getting to know more and
more people who have a passion to serve. While all the ministries are extremely valuable at FAC, I’m excited to highlight one now that is very dear to my heart. It’s called The Connection newsletter.
A great number of people are involved in making it possible for our FAC family to read each issue of The Connection. All of them have unique roles and special gifts that they contribute to the ministry. Currently, The Connection Ministry Team includes: Laurie Berglund, Sherri Bolognone, Lynn Guise, Danielle Reed, Tess Scaffidi, Donna Thomas, and me (Danielle Street). According to our editor, Lynn Guise, “It was during the summer of 2001 when Pastor Brian Snyder first spoke to me about his idea of having a monthly church newsletter. The church had grown to the point where there were too many activities to announce from the pulpit. The bulletin was filled with sheets of paper, and Brian was looking for a better way to provide announcements in a central location. It was decided that we would try a newsletter and see what would happen. The first issue was published in November of 2001 — almost 13 years ago! Since then, the size of the newsletter has grown from 8 pages to 32 for this month! Lynn shared, “I have always thought that the newsletter is a good reflection of the desire of Pastor Marty, Pastor Brian, and other FAC leaders to communicate effectively in as many ways
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Lynn Guise
possible. The ministry leaders are so faithful in submitting information about their events and classes. For me, it has been a great privilege to be involved with them through the newsletter for all these years. It has also been so great to be involved with volunteer writers throughout the years. The current team is very talented. They have the ability to bring stories to life for our readers. It’s a lot harder for them than it looks!” Laurie Berglund, also believes the newsletter is an important communication tool. “Telling the stories of what God is doing in His people’s lives is such a powerful way of celebrating Jesus and making much of Him,” said Laurie. “Every story that gets told is another peek into the amazing ways of God. And when we fail to tell the stories, we lose so much.” A couple of years ago, Laurie wanted to find more ways to use the God@Work stories in The Connection. She began praying about putting together a team to create video stories to be used in the weekend services. She invited Sherri Bolognone, a writer for God@Work stories, to join the team and then Donna Thomas began participating as well. The God@Work team started working
on both video and written stories at the same time. Sherri and Donna currently alternate writing the God@Work feature each month while Laurie is in charge of the video stories. Then a year ago, Laurie began serving on The Connection team in a new way by writing an article every month called “Encouragement for the Journey.” “I’ve enjoyed being able to share in this way,” she explained. “With such a big church family, I value any opportunity I can have to stay connected so it’s a privilege to be able to communicate in this way. I try to share some of the ways that God is working in my own life in hopes that it will encourage at least one person who reads it.” Sherri Bolognone says that Laurie has been the steady, driving force since day one with the God@Work team. “I’d never really known Laurie or anyone on the team. When she asked me, I knew it was where God wanted me,” said Sherri. Sherri’s job includes finding stories,
Danielle Street
Lynn & Tess, editing The Connection
interviewing and e-mailing people, and then helping them tell their testimony through a written medium. She believes we all have stories and all have ways God is working in and through us. “It expands
my faith every time I work on and read a story about how God has touched someone else. It transforms me and helps me to feel closer to Him, and His people,” she shared. “I love walking people through this process. Rarely do we take the time to truly pray, write, and think about all God has done for us. The process is emotional, transformative, and faith-building all at the same time. It helps people take a pause in their busy lives to focus on God for extended periods of time.” Donna Thomas would agree with Sherri. Donna loves sharing how God is very much alive and active in the lives of His people. “The stories are of lives changed, transformations, the lost being found, the sick being healed, marriages being saved, and every person is giving God the glory.” Donna explained, “Sometimes one of the pastors will give us a name, and we will pursue the story. Sometimes God opens my eyes to someone in the congregation on a Sunday morning and says, ‘Go,’ so I go. God has taught me to depend on Him. My talents are not adequate to tell His story. He has taught me that if I leave it up to Him and take myself out of the picture, I can sit down at the computer and just hold my fingers over the keys, and He’ll do the typing!” Danielle Reed and Tess Scaffidi are two more women who enjoy serving God through the newsletter. Both of them joined The Connection Team in November 2013. Danielle’s been writing the “Spotlight on Volunteers” feature and loves everything about it. She shared, “I feel that everyone has a story to share, and I love talking to the volunteers about how they got involved with their ministry and how God has used them. I think God has helped me connect to so many great volunteers, and He always gives me the right questions to ask. I know He’s always leading the conversations I have with the volunteers to help give me the information needed for each article.” Tess Scaffidi’s job is to take the compiled Word documents, photos, and graphics from Lynn Guise and lay them out to
create a visually pleasing magazine. Tess feels it’s really neat to be able to see the amount of events, Bible studies, and ministries that come out of FAC. “I had been interning with Planet 678 when I decided to go to school for graphic design,” explained Tess. “I was 21 years old and in the process of switching schools and majors. God made it clear to me through my internship with Planet that design was where he wanted me to go. My boss at the time, Pastor Erik Jarvis, would give me most of the ministry’s design work, which helped me gain a lot of experience. I love the creative aspect of my job with The Connection, but my favorite part is being able to work with and bounce ideas off of Lynn and the editing team.” If you are wondering how the process of producing The Connection works, here are the steps: •
Articles originate from three sources. First, the ministry leaders provide the bulk of the information. Second, most of the features come from the writing team. Third, Family Life announcements, such as births, graduations, engagements, weddings, and deaths come from the FAC family. If you have a Family Life announcement, please submit it with a photo to lynn@myfac.org. We want the church family to know!
•
Articles, announcements, and photos are due on the fifth of each month preceding the distribution.
•
Editing and design occur during a 14 to 20-day period.
•
The designed document is given to Chris Rose, Joanne Horner, Mari Lynne Snyder, and Donna Beridon for approval and proofing.
•
When the document has final approval, it is printed in-house by office staff and distributed monthly.
I hope you enjoyed reading this article. I love writing Ministry Profiles for The Connection, and I look forward to continuing to share the great things God is doing at FAC. I’m always amazed at how He continues to use His people in a powerful way to provide the needs of others. It inspires and motivates me to develop a servant’s heart and continue to follow God’s call. Please pray for all the people involved in The Connection and that God will continue to be glorified through each article in the newsletter! ☐ October 2014 | Connection
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Pastoral Care Support Groups
Our support groups are for people who desire to overcome hurts, heartaches, habits, and hang-ups. These groups seek to assist people in making choices that are God-directed toward Biblical wholeness, healing, forgiveness, and growth, rather than sinfulness, brokenness, and dysfunction. The Support Group Ministry provides responses to specific areas of need, including divorce recovery, grief, loss of a loved one by suicide, men’s sexual purity, addictions, and loved ones with addictions.
Christian Women’s and Men’s Recovery Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. Men: Red Barn (Room 4) Women: C-03/04
Men’s and women’s support groups are dedicated to helping with the journey towards God and sobriety. These groups are friendly, small, and growing. If you have questions, contact Pastor Brent Brendle, 609-953-7333, x129.
Relationship Recovery
Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Red Barn This group is for men and women who are going through separation or divorce and for those continuing to recover. If you have questions, contact Susan McGann, susanmcgann@pivotalhcs.com.
Serenity Support Group Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m. Red Barn
We provide encouragement, strength, and support to those who have loved ones making life difficult through their addictive behaviors. Join us as we explore how to find true peace through a deeper relationship with Christ and the use of the 12-step program with Biblical applications. If you have questions, contact Joyce Gilmore, mdlkbirder@verizon.net.
Helping Hand Grief Support Mondays, 7:00 p.m., Chapel
For adults who are grieving and need the love, compassion, and understanding of people who have experienced grief
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themselves. Encouragement, counseling, and education about the grieving process is offered. The group meets every Monday, 7:00 p.m. in our Chapel.
God intended it to be and that it be the most meaningful relationship possible. We use the “Prepare and Enrich” curriculum.
If you have questions, contact George and Wanda Stein, 609-953-7333, x309.
Contact Pastor Brent Brendle, brentb@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x129, for more information about registration and cost.
Living through Suicide Mondays, 7:00 p.m., Chapel
This group offers support for those who are grieving as a result of the suicide of a loved one. If you have questions, contact George and Wanda Stein, 609-953-7333, x309.
Path to Purity
Tuesday morning, 6:30 a.m. Path to Purity is for men who are struggling with sexual sin and who desire to live a pure life. Help is offered through sharing, encouragement, and accountability. For more information, call 609-9537333, x311 (leave a message), or send an e-mail to purity@myfac.org.
Marriage Ministry
The FAC Marriage Ministry strives to build strong, loving, and Godly marriages by giving hope through experiences and motivation and offering education regarding the dynamics of marriage and relationship skills.
• Marriage Coach Ministry Trained Christian couples are available to help other couples who desire to improve their marriages. The primary goal is to assist in equipping couples to grow in healthy, God-honoring marriages by exploring strength and growth areas and by developing caring relationships. Couples who would like to have coaches and couples who would like to become coaches should contact Pastor Brent Brendle, brentb@myfac.org, or 609-9537333, x129, for more information. • Marvelous Marriages Fall Workshops We will be offering workshops in October, and November: - October: Conflict Resolution - November: Improving Our Ability to Forgive One Another in a Godly way Space is limited. Registration is now open for the Oct. 9 and 12 workshops. Go to www.myfac.org/register.
• Pre-Marriage Group Since God designed the marriage relationship, it is clear He knows how to build a healthy marriage. It is our desire to help your marriage be all that
______________ For more information about any of the support groups, contact Pastor Brent Brendle, brentb@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x129.
FACTS & FIGURES
General Fund
date
budget
actual
8.3 8.10 8.17
$ 59,615 $ 59,615 $ 59,615
$ 51,428 $ 47,394 $ 57,345
8.31
$ 59,615
$ 51,826
$ ( 8,187) $ ( 12,221) $ ( 2,270) $ ( 10,036) $ ( 7,789)
$ 298,075 $ 2,086,525
$ 257,572 $2,028,816
$ ( 40,503) $ ( 57,709)
$ $ $ $ $
$ $ $ $ $
$ $( $ ( $ $(
8.24
$ 59,615
Total Year-to-Date
Missions Fund
8.3 8.10 8.17 8.24 8.31
Total Year-to-Date
Benevolence Fund
4,327 4,327 4,327 4,327 4,327
$ 21,635 $ 151,445
8.3 8.10 8.17 8.24 8.31
difference
$ 49,579
5,093 4,284 4,043 4,599 4,272
$ 22,291 $ 166,161
$ $ $ $ $
766 43) 284) 272 55)
$ 656 $ 14,716
1,627 1,597 1,416 1.621 1,765
Total $ 8,026 Year-to-Date $ 84,509
Building Fund
8.3 8.10 8.17 8.24 8.31
$ $ $ $ $
19,984 19,187 17,549 15,794 17,908
Total $ 90,422 Year-to-Date $ 751,969
Weekend Service Attendance
date
8.3 8.10 8.17 8.24 8.31
adults
1728 1639 1611 1723 1613
workers
66 76 67 66 61
children
262 249 292 255 239
total
2056 1964 1970 2044 1913
October 2014 | Connection
29
Ministries Directory For All Adults
For Women
Children & Youth
Other Ministries
Alpha
Women’s Ministry Leader
Rev. Erik Jarvis, x118
Camp FAC
Exploring the meaning of life Dave and Judi Shoemaker 609-706-3294
Free & Fifty
For 50 and older Ed Brokhoff 609-261-3059 edantbro@gmail.com
JOY
For Retired Adults Rev. Glenn Kantner, x106 glenn@myfac.org
miniChurches
Small groups Rev. Dave Krilov, x105 davek@myfac.org
Next Steps
Explore FAC beliefs and values Rev. Glenn Kantner, x106 glenn@myfac.org
Ushers & Greeters
Pastor Luke Fraser, x112 luke@myfac.org
Young Adults
Ages 18 to 24 Kyle Bahm, x136 kyleb@gmail.com
Carol Batten, x109 carol@myfac.org
Women's Assistant Debbie Schneck, x125 debbie@myfac.org
Deepening Groups
• C arol Batten, x109 carol@myfac.org • Lisa Kletkewicz 856-220-7054 2boys4life@comcast.net
Fresh Hope
Single mothers Debbie Schneck, x125 debbie@myfac.org
Youth Intern jeremym@myfac.org
Nick Mendillo
Youth Intern nickm@myfac.org
Elementary Ministry Grades 1-4 Rev. Erik Jarvis, x118 erikj@myfac.org
High School Ministry
Cookie Ministry Cindy Leek 609-268-9301
Hospitality
Ed & Deb Jurimas, x127 & 119 edj@myfac.org; debj@myfac.org
Lay Counseling
Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org
Library
Monika Tockstein 609-268-1238 mtockstein@gmail.com
Kingdom Kids
Peacemaker/Mediation
Julie Durdin, x124 julie@myfac.org
Ken Walker 856-719-0292
Mom's Time Out
Middle School Ministry
Risk Management Team
Heart to Heart Bible Studies for Women
For moms of babies through eighth graders Michele Fleckenstein 609-654-2796 mlfleckenstein@outlook.com
Susan Gibbs 856-904-3214 mocha2004@comcast.net
Ensuring safety and security Rev. Erik Jarvis, x118 erikj@myfac.org
For Men
(Grades 5-8) Trip Hotline, x678 Pastor Eddie Jurimas, x104 eddie@myfac.org • Russ Batten, x134 Level 5 Intern russ@myfac.org
Band of Brothers
Preschool Ministry
nick@myfac.org
Catalyst Men's Groups Pastor Erik Rebstock, x116 erikr@myfac.org
facWILD
Outdoor Adventure Rodney Sager rsagerjr@comcast.net 856-924-4631
Velocity Men’s Groups Pastor Erik Rebstock, x116 erikr@myfac.org Fellowship Alliance Chapel
Jeremy McAlack
Jerry Braatz 609-714-4035 info@campfac.org
Grades 9-12 Trip Hotline, x410 Rev. Mike Williams, x108 mike@myfac.org
Men's Breakfast Michael More` dembums1@gmail.com.
30
erikj@myfac.org
Infants through kindergarten • Jane Beebe, x101 jane@myfac.org • Cathy Watson, x117 cathy@myfac.org
SNOW
Special Needs Outreach & Witness Barbara Zieger 856-912-5814 bzieger2002@yahoo.com
Worship Pastor Nick Simpson, x110 Rob Preim
Musical Director rob@myfac.org
Jerry Braatz, Sr.
Choir Director 609-268-8656 nacle100@aol.com
CD & DVD Duplication Bill and Cathy Kamps 856-596-8408 clkprov356@verizon.net
Support Groups
Tel: 609-953-7333
Serenity Support Group
Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org
For loved ones of those with substance abuse issues Joyce Gilmore mdlkbirder@verizon.net
Career Hub
SNOW Den
Support for career transition Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org
Special Needs Outreach & Witness Leah Bronczyk, x304 SNOWDen.fac@gmail.com
Christian Men’s Recovery Group
Benevolent Center
Pastoral Care
Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org
Christian Women’s Recovery Group
Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org
Helping Hand Grief Support
For those who have suffered loss Wanda and George Stein, x309
Living through Suicide
Help for those in need 609-975-9741 bencenter@myfac.org
Care & Comfort
Meals/visitation Denise Richards, x310 careandcomfort@myfac.org
Crew 318
Helping hands and repairs Joe Pagano x318 crew318@myfac.org
For those who have suffered loss through suicide Wanda and George Stein, x309
Food Pantry
Marriage Coaches
Fresh Hope Auto
For those who want to improve their marriages Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org
Path to Purity
Men learning to live sexually pure lives 609-953-7333, x311 purity@myfac.org
Pre-marriage Support Group
Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org
Relationship Recovery
For newly separated/divorced Susan McGann susanmcgann@pivotalhcs.com
Darlene Taylor foodpantry@myfac.org Mark McGuigan fhauto@myfac.org
Good $ense
Managing Financial Resources Phil Morgan goodsense@myfac.org
Intake Representatives Tracy Cossabone bencenter@myfac.org
Missions & Outreach
Service Projects
Tracy LaRosa projects@myfac.org
Support Team Chris Rose, x135 Office Manager chrisrose@myfac.org Administrative Assistants • Lauren Brown, x107 laurenb@myfac.org • Joanne Horner, x111 joanne@myfac.org • Tess Scaffidi, x126 tess@myfac.org • Mari Lynne Snyder, x115 Registrations marilynne@myfac.org
Bookkeeper
Donna Beridon, x103 donna@myfac.org
Facilities
Ed Jurimas, x127 Facilities Operations Manager edj@myfac.org • Ed Brokhoff • Rob Eiler • Richie Jacobs • Ryan O'Rourke • Chris Rymarz • Dan Scott
Receptionist
Pam Metz-DePasquale, x100 pam@myfac.org
Scheduler
Deb Jurimas, x119 debj@myfac.org
Technology
Pastor Jim Entwistle, x131
Scott Urwiler, x113 Maintenance and IT Supervisor scott@myfac.org
Angel Tree
Wedding Coordinator & Funeral Coordinator
jim@myfac.org
Dave and Judi Shoemaker 609-706-3294
Missions Trips
Pastor Jim Entwistle, x131 jim@myfac.org
Jocelyn Stainback, x402 weddings@myfac.org
Senior Pastor Marty Berglund Executive Pastor Brian Snyder brian@myfac.org Executive Pastor of Ministries Don Hay don@myfac.org 199 Church Rd. Medford, NJ 08055 Tel: 609-953-7333 Worship Services Saturday, 6:00 p.m. Sunday, 9:00 &11:00 a.m. Office Hours Mon.-Thurs., 8:00 to 5:00 Web site: www.myfac.org E-mail: info@myfac.org Elders: Rev. Marty Berglund, Bill Adams, Doug Bazigian, Jack Hibbard, Ryan King, Bryan Russell Camp FAC 110 Sycamore Ave. Marlton, NJ 08053 The Connection Editor: Lynn Guise Designer: Tess Scaffidi Writers
God@Work – Laurie Berglund, Sherri Bolognone, Donna Thomas Ministry Profiles – Danielle Street Volunteer Profiles – Danielle Reed
Submit family announcements and suggestions for volunteer profiles to lynn@myfac.org.
October 2014 | Connection
31
Our Vision We want people to hear God's call and follow it.
Our Mission We want to help people connect to God, to His people, and to His work.
Our Core Values Lost people matter to God. He wants them found.
~Luke 19:10 Prayer is the primary work of the people of God.
~Philippians 4:6,7 Everything we have belongs to God. We are only stewards.
~1 Chronicles 29:14 Knowing and obeying God's Word is fundamental to all true success.
~Joshua 1:8 Without the empowering of the Holy Spirit, we can accomplish nothing.
~1 Corinthians 2:4,5
199 C hurch Road M edford, NJ 0 8 0 5 5 | 6 0 9 - 9 5 3 - 7 3 3 3 | w w w. my fa c. o rg