CONNECTION FELLOWSHIP ALLIANCE CHAPEL — MEDFORD, NJ — NOVEMBER 2016
We’re Thankful. . . Pages 4-5
“We are a Church on a Mission!” Pastor Marty Berglund Page 6
God@Work Pages 22-23
we’re thankful
christmas outreach projects
marriage workshop
angel breakfast
living through suicide
god@work ...
Pages 4-5
Page 7
Preschoolers and their guests Page 12
Workshop Page 21
Page 9
In the life of Dan Mignogna Pages 22-23
Contents | November 2016 4 -5
we’re thankful
news & notes
12
6 “we are a church on a mission” Pastor Marty Berglund
7 8
“encouragement for the journey” Laurie Berglund
marriage workshop
“Great Expectations”
angel breakfast
Preschoolers and Their Guests
13
three outreach projects for christmas
9
10-11
kid blast
Preschool Ministry, Nursery through Kindergarten
14
kid blast
Elementary Ministry, Grades 1-4
15 youth ministries Grades 5-12
16-17
women’s ministry
18
WORSHIP SERVICES
men’s ministry
19
Saturday: 6:00 p.m.
small groups
20
Sunday: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.
Nursery and classes are provided during every service for babies through fourth graders. Ask a greeter for directions to classes.
The Friendship Class for teens and adults with special needs meets during the 9:00 a.m. service in Room B-10.
care groups
21
women’s recovery, testimonial living through suicide, workshop
22-23
god@work
Interpretation for the hearing impaired is available during the 11:00 a.m. worship service.
In the Life of Dan Mignogna
24
missions: southern africa (FASA)
25
facts & figures
26-27
directory
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
We’re Thankful The leaders of FAC are so thankful for God’s faithfulness to our church. We are thankful for our new building and the opportunities to “make room” for many more people in our area to hear about God’s love for them. We especially want to thank every person who has sacrificed time and money throughout the years because of their “Kingdom Vision” for accomplishing God’s work in our area and throughout the world. We are so grateful to be a part of the FAC family with you.
Our new Worship Center
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Connection | Newsletter
So many volunteers have helped prepare our new building for use, contributing to tremendous savings.
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
Stay in touch with Marty through social media:
WE ARE A CHURCH ON A
MISSION! Dear Church Family,
I
’ve been a person on a mission since the 1970’s when I became a Christian and was deeply involved in the Jesus Movement. We saw hundreds of high school and college-age students and even many adults come to Christ. Many of the adults in church were even renewed in their faith by all that God was doing in the youth around them.
When I came to New Jersey to start a church, I was clearly a pastor on a mission. Just taking on an existing church didn’t seem right to me. I wanted to plant a new one and try to reach unchurched people for Christ. When we built our first building, and every building since then, it has always been for the same reason – because we are on a mission. We’ve even felt compelled to spell out our mission in a mission statement that goes like this: “We want people to connect with God, connect with God’s people, and connect with God’s work.” That’s our simple mission based upon Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:8. But through the 36 years of ministry at Fellowship Alliance, I’ve realized we need to periodically remind ourselves that we are a group of people on a mission. Many churches throughout history have forgotten their mission or replaced it with a lesser mission. We have seen horrible things happen to humanity throughout history because the Church, for one reason or another, lost sight of its mission. This still happens routinely around the world. I never want to see that happen at our church. So, I write articles like this one, preach sermons about our mission, and seek to lead our leaders on the mission God has called us to accomplish. Often, I feel like a gardener or farmer who always looks to the harvest. The farmer doesn’t grow his crops to have something to plant or just so he can cultivate or prune or fertilize. Not at all. A farmer does all the work he does for the mission of reaping a harvest. I personally work all year on my raspberry bushes just so that when harvest time comes, I get nice, big, juicy berries. It’s the same with church. We can’t ever forget that we are here to make strong disciples so that we can make more disciples. Our new building is completely worth building if it helps us do that. But that all hinges on whether we, as the people in this church story, are on the mission of harvesting. We are here not just to have a big church or to have awesome worship experiences or to learn the Bible through inspiring sermons. We are not here just to have nice ministries for our families. We are here to fulfill the mission God Himself called us to accomplish. We are here to bring in the harvest of people God is calling to Himself and to help them hear His call and teach them how to follow it. If you have found Christ as your Savior and Lord, I call out to you to join the rest of us at FAC in being a church on a mission. We’d love to have you be a part of all that God is doing among us and through us. Please join us in being a church on a mission.
Love never fails,
Pastor Marty Berglund Senior Pastor
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3 CHR IST
This year, we are offering three opportunities to help children in need ― globally, regionally, and locally. Choose a project(s) and begin now to pray for the children who will receive your gifts.
02 RE GI O NAL
ANGEL TREE for children of prisoners Pick up Angel Tags ― Nov. 5/6 and 12/13 Angel Tree is an outreach to children who have a mother and/or father in prison. Not only are we able to give gifts, but we are also able to spend some time with the children and their families when we deliver the gifts. Participate with your friends, family, or small group. Select a family from the “wall,” contact the caregiver, and provide three gifts per child. You will deliver the gifts just before Christmas. Angel Tree tags for approximately 100 families will be displayed in the Welcome Center on Nov. 5/6 and 12/13 for as long as they last. Delivery Day Kick-off ― Sat. Dec. 17 We will meet at 9:00 a.m. at FAC for delivery information and additional items, including books and cards for prisoners. There will be a brief time of fellowship and Christmas carols. For more information, contact the Dave Shoemaker, shoemaker23@comcast.net.
Connection | Newsletter
T M AS SERV ICE PROJ ECTS!
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OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
GL OB A L
deadline for return ― nov. 13 If you did not pick up a shoebox at the church in October, it is not too late! Use your own shoebox and fill it with toys, hygiene items, school supplies, and a personal note. Along with each box, children will receive a book with a colorful presentation of the Gospel and the opportunity to enroll in a discipleship program led by volunteers and local churches. If you would like more instructions about how to pack your shoebox, go to our website, www.myfac.org. OCC is featured on the homepage. Completed boxes can be returned to FAC in the wooden bin marked “Operation Christmas Child.” If you have any questions, contact Kristen Potter, kpotter831@gmail.com.
03 A GIFT OF HOPE
L O C AL_
for single moms at fac Nov. 26/27 and Dec. 3/4 ― Gift tags will be available in the Welcome Center after worship services Dec. 11 ― Deadline for wrapped and returned gifts A Gift of Hope is for the children of the single moms of our Fresh Hope ministry. The moms fill out gift requests for their children. Those requests will then be put on gift tags and placed in the Welcome Center. You will have the opportunity to choose a tag and purchase a gift for one of our Fresh Hope children. Here are some comments from the recipients of your gifts in the past: “For me, it represented the family I no longer have to help me make it a beautiful Christmas for my kids. I felt loved by this church family.” “Because of A Gift of Hope, my daughter has a deeper understanding of her faith through the music and books that she has received from you. In addition, I have been blessed by this ministry in such a way that words cannot describe.”
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE Journey
“We highly value our independence. And submission seems to undermine the thing we Americans strive for most = equality.”
T
here it is, as big as life, on the front wall of the Sanctuary: the word SUBMISSIVE. Sure, there are other words up there too. But that’s the one that immediately caught my attention! Why? Because it’s not a particularly popular word, is it? Many of us bristle at the idea of submitting to anyone. We highly value our independence. And submission seems to undermine the thing we Americans strive for most = equality.
Even though submission is a theme in 1 Peter (which is why it’s on the wall!), it surfaced in Marty’s recent sermons about the Cross as well. I wrote myself this note after one of those sermons: “The submission we’re so averse to ― Jesus modeled it for us. And the reason He was able to do it is because He didn’t think equality was something to be grasped. He WAS, and still IS, equal to God. But He was humble enough not to need to grasp for that equality. And He was committed enough to the purposes of His Father to submit His will to Him.” Jesus knew that God’s plan would require submission. So He chose that. In His choosing, He didn’t have to “lose His personhood,” which is something we’re so afraid of! He was still 100% completely God. But He chose to limit Himself in order to fulfill the Father’s good design. True submission is not about being down-trodden, but about intentionally choosing to limit ourselves for His glory. That’s what Jesus chose, and He calls us to the same. In order for marriages and our church to be a reflection of the Godhead, He asks both men and women to imitate Him in different but equally powerful ways ― not to lose our personhood, but to willingly limit ourselves in order to fulfill His beautiful design. He calls for men to be willing to lay down their lives for their wives ― just like Jesus laid down His life for us. That is definitely a choice that calls for limiting of self. Men,
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ask yourselves: Am I choosing to set aside my agenda to invest in helping my wife to flourish? How often do I lay aside my plans and desires to benefit my wife? That’s what Jesus did for His Bride. That’s what He calls you to do for yours. Then He calls for women to submit to their husbands ― just like Jesus submitted to God. There is no loss of worth in that call; it is instead a choice of incredible maturity to limit oneself in order to achieve something bigger than yourself. Women, ask yourselves: Am I more interested in being equal to or better than my husband or in choosing to submit myself in ways that lift him up? Is having my own way more important to me than submitting to his way? It is Jesus who paved the way for us on that challenging but beautiful path. Unfortunately, from the beginning, Eve set a devastating standard for us by choosing to grasp for equality. The enemy talked her into it. And Adam set his own heartbreaking standard by choosing not to lay down his life to stop Eve from destroying both of them with her choice. She thought her choice would bring her fulfillment. It only brought sorrow ― for all of us. The enemy is still whispering the same lie to us today. And nothing has changed about the outcome. Grasping for equality leads to heartache. It always has. It always will. Choosing to limit yourself for the glory of God ― that brings joy. The enemy won’t tell you that. The world won’t tell you that. But Jesus already did.
Laurie welcomes your comments, laurieb@myfac.org
Marriage Workshop: “Great Expectations” Fri., Dec. 2, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., in the Chapel What happened? This is not what I signed up for!” We all go into marriage starry-eyed and full of hopes and dreams, but then the honeymoon is over and reality sets in! We often find that our expectations, however big or small, are smashed to pieces, and it seems like nearly everything has changed!
What now? Where do we go from here? Please join us for another Heartbeats workshop, "Great Expectations," on Fri., Dec. 2, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Together we'll cover "The Honeymoon is Over" right on through "The Silver Lining" and learn ways we can manage and change our expectations. Space is limited so register now, www.myfac.org/register. If you have any questions, send an e-mail to marriagematters@myfac.org.
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
News Notes Starting Point Get connected at FAC If you are new to FAC and would like to get more involved, Starting Point groups can help you. These groups meet in homes on various nights of the week and in different areas so you can find one that is convenient for you. In these groups, you will learn a little more about our church and work with our guides who will help you find the right areas of involvement for you. You can either register online by clicking on “I’m New” on the homepage of our website, www.myfac.org, or register in person at our Guest Receptions, which are held twice a month after worship services. This month, Guest Receptions will be held on Nov. 5 and 19. If you would like more information, contact Pastor Doug Bazigian, dougb@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x128.
FAC Wheels Providing the “wheels” to bring people to FAC A message from Patricia Donovan: “I’m very grateful for the FAC Wheels program. If it weren’t for this program, I wouldn’t be able to get to church. Jim Hogan has done a wonderful job leading this program and has been a huge help to me.
If anyone is interested, please volunteer for this exceptional program!”
Cost: $60 or $110 per couple; includes lunch
We need more volunteer drivers to help for just one service each month. We have a church vehicle or you can use your own.
To register, go to www.harvestusa.org. If you have questions, contact Pastor Brent Brendle, brentb@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x129.
If you would like to join the FAC Wheels team or if you need service, contact Jim Hogan, facwheels@myfac.org or 609-953-7333, x306. Leave a message.
SNOW Den Nov. 4 & 18 SNOW Den provides a place for adults with special needs to connect to God and to their friends. SNOW Den meets in the Sanctuary on select Friday nights from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. to participate in events such as bingo, karaoke, summer barbecues, bowling, pizza, and so much more! This month, SNOW Den meets on Nov. 4 and 18. For more information, send an e-mail to snowden.fac@gmail.com.
Shattered Dreams: New Hope A seminar for parents of children in or considering the gay lifestyle Date: Nov. 12 Place: Harvest USA, 715 Twining Rd., Suite 200, Dresher, PA 19025 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
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A Wedding Announcement
Christine (Glatz) Gwin and Dennis Gwin were married on Aug. 13 at Camp FAC. “It was the hottest day of the year, but God kept the rain away,” Christine and Dennis said. “It was beautiful, and the help of Jerry and Erik from FAC was overwhelming. We are so very grateful! Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate with us.”
Connection | Newsletter
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’s easy to help! Just place non-perishable 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 • Instant mashed potatoes • Jelly • Rice • Cereal • Stuffing • Pasta • Soup • Spaghetti sauce • Bath and cleaning • Canned fruit products • Canned vegetables • Tuna
• Any other non- perishable items
• Canned chicken
Memorial Service Leon J. Martin of Willingboro died on Oct. 12 at Virtua Memorial Hospital, Mount Holly. He was 83 years old. Born and raised in Bronx, N.Y., he was a U.S. Air Force veteran. Leon attended FAC and was actively involved in SAGE Builders and on the greeting team.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES during all worship services* >
Infants (birth through 14 months)
>
Toddlers (15 – 24 months)
>
Preschool (25 months to Kindergarten)
>
Elementary Kid Blast Bible Study (Grades 1-4)
* An usher or greeter will be glad to help you find your child’s class.
snow kids for children with special needs Babies through fifth graders >
Provides one-on-one "SNOW buddies"
A memorial service will be held in the Sanctuary on Sat., Nov. 5, at 10:00 a.m.
>
Sundays, 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. in Room B-02
Leon’s family has requested that donations in his memory be given to Fellowship Alliance Chapel.
kid blast clubs
What’s Your News? Do you have an announcement that you would like to share with the church family? Let us know! Send up to 50 words to lynn@myfac.org. Deadlines are the 5th of every month so if you want something in the December issue, please send it by Nov. 5. We welcome photos to accompany your announcement.
Sunday Night, 6:00 to 8:00 >
Ages four through Grade 4
>
Themes and dates for November:
Nov. 6, Funky Hair
Nov. 13, 80’s Night
Nov. 20, Pirate Night
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KID BLAST PRESCHOOL
Babies through Kindergartners
Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
OUR ANNUAL
Angel Breakfast sat., dec. 10
Meet in the Welcome Center at 9:00 a.m. It is that special time of year again for all preschoolers, three years old through kindergarten, to dust off their angel wings and halos to get ready for an exceptional morning planned just for them. On Sat., Dec. 10, 9:00 to 11:30, our current Sanctuary will be aglow as preschoolers and their guests come together for our Preschool Angel Breakfast.
can you help? We need help with decoration, setting up, and assisting with food preparation. If you would like to help and are available Friday afternoon and/or Saturday morning, we would love to have you join the team.
Grandmas, grandpas, dads, aunts, uncles ― and even moms ― need to extend an invitation to a very special preschooler who will join you to build some memories together. Children are encouraged to dress in angel attire, enhanced with angel wings, halos, swords, shields, or any other creative ideas and come with their best smile to help our photographer create a memorable picture. The morning begins with photos, breakfast served at 9:15, and then together you will participate in other activities that will focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Each child must be accompanied by at least one adult. The cost is $3.00 per person.
Register at www.myfac.org/register. If you have questions, contact Jane Beebe, jane@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x101.
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Connection | Newsletter
Count how many of each type of brick you see in the wall. Write the answer on the blank line below each type of brick. Lots of people helped Nehemiah build the wall in Jerusalem. Many community people help us too. Look for 6 objects on the wall. Draw a circle around each object that you find.
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KID BLAST ELEMENTARY
Grades 1-4
Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
HEY, THAT’S FUNNY Why did the fisherman put peanut butter in the water?
What did one wall say to the other wall?
To go with the Jellyfish!
I’ll meet you at the corner
What goes up and down but does not move?
Why was the broom late?
Stairs
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It over swept!
YOUTH
Connection | Newsletter
YOUTH MINISTRIES GRADES 5-12
connect on social media Instagram: FACyouthImpact Level5youth planet678youth Twitter: FACyouthImpact Facebook: Youth Impact: Fellowship Alliance Chapel
fall events GRAPPLE | GRADES 5-7 Nov. 6, 13, and 20 in Suite 215, in the Barn Grapple, a worship service for fifth, sixth, and seventh graders, meets during the 9:00 and 11:00 Sunday morning services. Parents should drop off their children before classes begin.
LEVEL 5 & PLANET 678 | GRADES 5-8 Nov. 6, 13, and 20 at Medford Memorial Middle School Sunday evenings, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Level 5 and Planet will not meet on Nov. 27 or during the month of December.
LEVEL 5 & PLANET 678 CHRISTMAS PARTY A Christmas party will be held for Level 5 and Planet on Dec. 4 at FAC from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. It’s free! Join the party!
INSIGHT | GRADES 9-12 Monday nights, Nov. 7, 14, 21, and 28
contact Level 5 for fifth graders: Russ Batten, russ@myfac.org, 609-953-7333, x134 Planet 678 for Grades 6-8: Pastor Eddie Jurimas, eddie@myfac.org, 609-953-7333, x104 Impact for Grades 9-12: Pastor Mike Williams, mike@myfac.org, 609-953-7333, x108
Insight is open to any student in Grades 9-12. Bring your friends! Students from surrounding schools meet from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
INSIGHT | SMALL GROUP CHRISTMAS PARTIES Look for further details coming soon about a Christmas party for your small group. Hold the date: Dec. 5.
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WOMEN
Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
Women@fac
aWAKEN IF:Table
Deepening Group
Fri., Nov. 18, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
A Deepening Group provides a covenant community for maturing Christians where you can experience:
“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” Acts 2:46 The aWAKEN ministry invites you to IF:Table on the third Friday of every month. We believe the table is a place to gather women, share a simple dinner, and experience real-life stories and Christ-centered conversations. IF:Tables are a time for a whole lot of laughter ― and maybe a few tears ― but time spent that leaves us with glad hearts, full hearts, and grateful hearts. IF:Table meets at the 219 Fellowship House, and the cost is $5.00. Please register so we can be prepared for you for dinner. Space is limited so sign up early. Register at www.myfac.org. Registration will close when maximum space has been reached or on Thurs., Nov. 17.
• Communion – a deeper intimacy with the Trinity and personal intentionality in spiritual formation • Community – being part of a Christian community that will encourage and challenge participants in the isolating society of our time • Ministry – supporting and serving others as participants pursue their place and purpose in the Kingdom of God Our hope in Deepening Groups is that you follow Christ in loving obedience and lead a lifestyle of continual spiritual transformation and growth through intentional cooperation with the Holy Spirit. Joining a Deepening Group To connect with others who are devoted to a growing love for God and one another, go to www.myfac.org/forwomen. Complete the Deepening Group Participant Interest Form If you have questions after reading the information on the website, contact Jennifer Green, jenniferg15@verizon.net.
Fresh Hope for Single Moms
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Sun., Nov. 13., 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
be provided for those children who are too young to participate in the FAC programs. All children must be registered one week prior to the Fresh Hope meeting.
Fresh Hope connects single moms to God’s love through friendships, encouragement, and support. All single moms are invited to attend Fresh Hope meetings for dinner, teaching, encouragement, and fun. Fresh Hope meets one Sunday evening each month from 5:00 to 8:00.
Please note: Due to new legal policies in Children’s Ministry, if you have a child with special needs, we have a process in place to ensure your child’s safety and best care. When you register for Fresh Hope, let us know that you have a child with special needs, and someone from our Children’s Ministry will contact you.
Dinner is provided for the moms and their children. There are children’s and youth groups available through the church, including KidBLAST Clubs, Level 5, and Planet 678. Childcare will
To register, go to www.myfac.org/forwomen, or call Debbie Schneck, 609-953-7333, x125. Fresh Hope is free for moms and children.
Connection | Newsletter
NEW MINISTRY:
CONNECTING A new group for women Upcoming dates: Nov. 2, 3, 16, 17, 30 & Dec. 1 Time: Wednesdays, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., or Thursdays, 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. Place: 219 Fellowship House When you are new to FAC, navigating through all of the programs, groups. and service opportunities can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. It can even feel that way even if you aren’t new to FAC. Sometimes it’s easier to do nothing and hope that you’ll learn a few things here and there. But taking the initiative to get connected is always worth it. We want to help women connect to one another and to FAC. With this goal in mind, a new ministry called CONNECTING has been created. If you’re not sure which program might be the next step for you; if you’re just not ready to sign up for a group; or if you want to connect to other women, CONNECTING is the place to be for conversation, fellowship, encouragement. Feel free to come once or often. It’s up to you. No registration is required. Just stop by. Our 90-minute format will include reviewing the week’s sermon, discussing questions and ideas, sharing FAC ministries and upcoming activities, and prayer. So, take the first brave step and join us on Wednesday night or Thursday morning. If you have questions, contact Betty Ann German, 856-296-7998.
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MEN
Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
facWILD paintball Nov. 26, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This event is for men and children, nine years of age and older. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The cost for paintball: $20 for equipment, which includes gun, mask, air pass to charge gun, ammo belt, a hot dog, and field access. It is $55 for a case of 2000 paint rounds. You will pay at On Target Paintball, 35 Sheep Pen Hill Rd., Pemberton, NJ. For more information, go to www.ontargetpaintball.com
band of brothers
The FAC Men’s Ministry is designed to build men who make a difference. Whether you’re in a small group studying God’s Word, enjoying camping or hiking, or attending the annual Men’s Conference or Pig Roast, we want to help you grow in your relationships with Christ and those around you. For more information, contact Pastor Erik Rebstock, 609-953-7333, x116, or erikr@myfac.org.
Wednesday mornings in the Sanctuary | 6:30 to 7:45 a.m.
Band of Brothers is currently going through a series entitled Good Citizens. These are the topics for October: Nov. 2: Take a Punch Nov. 9: Love Those Who Hate You Nov. 16: Open Microphone Nov. 30: New Series Begins: “Why?” Band of Brothers will not be meeting on Nov. 23. With good food and no pressure, Band of Brothers is a great place to introduce friends, family, and co-workers to who God is and what His story has to do with a man’s life. There is no cost, but donations are accepted. If you have questions, contact Band of Brothers’ director Michael More’, dembums1@gmail.com.
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If you are currently in a nine-week series on “Hope� that was launched from GroupLink, contact: Pastor Dave Krilov for groups for everyone: davek@myfac.org Pastor Erik Rebstock for groups for men: erikr@myfac.org Carol Batten for groups for women: carol@myfac.org If you want to continue in a small group, they will help you with the next steps!
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
PASTORAL CARE DIRECTORY Our Pastoral Care groups offer financial, physical, and emotional support. If you need assistance, contact the Care Center, 609-975-9741, or use the contact information below.
every man’s battle
Support for men struggling with sexual sins
•Pre-Marriage Groups Giving marriages a healthy start
Meetings are held on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.
Contacts: Mike and Tammy Mosier, 609-953-7333, x315. (Leave a message.)
Contacts: Ed Brokhoff (Call for location.) 609-200-2019 or edb@myfac.org
men’s recovery
helping hand grief support
Meetings are held in the Barn in RB-04 on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m.
Meetings are held on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel.
Contacts: Dan Mignogna and Ben Glatz, recoverymen@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x313 (Leave a message.)
Support for adults who are grieving
For help towards God and sobriety
serenity support
For those with loved ones with substance abuse issues Meetings are held on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. in the Barn. Contact: Joyce, serenitysupport@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x314 (Leave a message.)
wings (walking in god’s strength) For families of loved ones with eating disorders
path to purity
Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesdays from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., in Suite 219, the Fellowship House.
To see a lay counselor, call Toni Mendillo, 609-953-7333, 329. (Leave a message.)
Meetings are held on Tuesdays at 6:30 a.m. Call for location.
For more information, send an e-mail to janletts@comcast.net; jmiller.510@ comcast.net; or janetworrell@verizon.net.
living through suicide
For more information, send an e-mail to purity@myfac.org, or call 609-953-7333, x311. (Leave a message.)
Meetings are held on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel.
relationship recovery
Contacts: Wanda and George Stein, 609-953-7333, x309
lay counseling
For those grieving the loss of a loved one through suicide
Contacts: Wanda and George Stein, 609-953-7333, x309
marriage ministry
• Marriage Coaches Coaching and education for moving and improving marriages in all different stages Contacts: Steve and Julie Durdin, marriagematters@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x315. (Leave a message.)
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For men struggling with sexual sin
For men and women who are going through separation and/or divorce and for those continuing to recover. Contact: Susan, 609-953-7333, x316, or relationshiprecovery@myfac.org.
women’s redemption
For women who struggle with sexual purity For times and location, contact puritywomen@myfac.org, or leave a message at 609-953-7333, x317.
women’s recovery
For help towards God and sobriety Meetings are held in C-12 (above the Chapel) on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Contacts: Christine Botti and Jodi Warner, recoverywomen@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x313 (Leave a message.)
Connection | Newsletter
HOW GOD & THE FAC WOMEN’S RECOVERY GROUP
SAVED MY LIFE
I
was raised in a believing family. My dad was a pastor of a small non-denominational church. One of the downsides to being raised in the faith is sometimes you don't see God as a loving God, but rather more of a dictator with rules to follow or He will punish you for your sin. I never truly understood God's grace or love.
My family believed completely in forgiving 70 times 7 so I grew up believing that I should allow anyone to say or do anything to me and just turn the other cheek. I never learned to stand up for myself or for God. I got married, had four children, and allowed myself to get separated from God. My marriage was tumultuous. I would cry out to God: “Why have you allowed my life to be filled with so much heartache and pain?” But God wasn't to blame. I stopped going to church. I stopped trusting in Him. I started hanging out with the wrong people, and several years ago, I
“I needed a safe place to be held accountable but not judged.”
provide the accountability that I so desperately needed. I just want to encourage any other women struggling with purity issues, large or small, to come to this group to find healing, grace, acceptance, but most of all, God's amazing love. I am writing this anonymously not because I feel the need to hide but to protect the privacy and confidentiality of others in the group. For times and locations, send an e-mail to puritywomen@myfac.org, or call 609-953-7333, x317, and leave a message. •
FAC’s Living through Suicide Care Group Is Offering a Workshop Are You A Survivor of A Loved One's Suicide? International Survivors of Suicide Day Workshop Sat., Nov. 19, 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the Chapel
started having an affair. I convinced myself that I deserved to be happy, and it was my husband's fault because of his emotional and verbal abuse. My marriage and my children's lives were in complete turmoil. There was constant fighting and uncertainty in my house. The pain I saw in my children’s faces brought me to my knees. God had entrusted these four precious lives to me, and I was not raising them to experience His love. I saw a write-up about the Women's Recovery Group in the FAC newsletter, and I knew I had to go. The group was lifechanging. It was a place where I found the love of God so pure, unchanging, and non-condemning. I needed a safe place to be held accountable but not judged. We had meetings once a week, but it was more the relationships that I developed with other women struggling with similar issues. I had women I could now reach out to any time day or night at my lowest points to demonstrate God's love and acceptance and to
education and support at no cost This workshop is offered by the FAC Care Ministry, Helping Hand Grief Support, which meets on Monday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Chapel. For further information, call 609-953-7333, x309, or go to www.helpinghandgriefsupport.org.
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
I’M NOT THE MAN I USED TO BE God@Work in the Life of … Dan Mignogna
My
story is how I grew up and discovered God in my life. It’s not a pretty story for many years. I’m not proud of the things I’ve done, but by the grace of God, my life had been transformed. Today I am a blessed man. Today I have a new life. Born in South Camden, I attended Catholic services with my family every Sunday. As
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a young boy, I was diagnosed with Perthes disease, a rare childhood disorder that affects the hip. I was fitted with a full leg brace on one leg and a two and a half inch elevated shoe on the other foot. Periodically, my parents and I would travel to a Philadelphia church, hang the brace on a wall hook, and pray for healing. After two years, I was able to walk normally without a brace. At that time, I didn’t recognize this healing as being one of God’s miracles in my life.
At church, I took Holy Communion every week and confessed my sins weekly to a priest. At school, I was able to play football, baseball, and run track. I sang doo wop with guys on the corner, and a few times we stole some goods from local stores, but we never got into serious trouble. Back at church, I became afraid of God’s punishment for bad behavior. I didn’t want to confess my sins; I didn’t want to be punished, so I drifted away from the church and from God.
Connection | Newsletter
After my senior year in high school, I started working right away, having no desire for college, just wanting to make a living. I constantly worked and acquired the two things that made for a good life: a car and girlfriends. Yet without God, my life soon spiraled out of control, into alcohol, drugs, promiscuity, and confusion. At the age of twenty, I was drinking, going to clubs, and I got three girls pregnant. I married the third gal, and we had a daughter, Danielle, but after two years of marriage with my quitting work, continuing to drink, and having an extra-marital affair, the marriage was over. After the divorce, I started using drugs and became addicted at the age of twenty-three. While I continued to hold down a job, I also began dealing drugs to pay for my habit and other expenses. I started blaming God for all the wrong things going on in my life.
but in both cases, my drug-addled behavior resulted in their cars being destroyed or stolen. I was asked to leave their homes, with our relationships severely damaged. My life was hitting bottom. Finally, into this mess, I met a young woman who challenged me to face my addictions. I began attending AA and NA meetings. While there, a friend I met named Tom shared God’s love and grace to me. At first, I was reluctant to pray. Why would God want to save me after all I had destroyed? But I knew I needed God. I got down on my knees, asking God to help me and to fill my life. God began to transform me a day at a time. The young woman and I married, and by the grace of God I became drug- and alcohol-free. But some of my old ways crept back in; my focus was not fully on God. My second marriage also ended up in divorce — my clothes packed in plastic bags and door locks changed once again. After a year of
“ Thank you, Jesus, for making me the man I am today. I am not the man I used to be. Praise God. ” My life continued its destructive cycle: living with one girl after another, having affairs, being thrown out — clothes packed in plastic bags left on the street, changed door locks where I used to live. I kept trying to fill the empty hole inside of me. When I finally rented my own apartment, the cops raided my place, busting me for drugs and impounding my drug-laden car. One Saturday, mid-afternoon, I fell asleep at the wheel of another car and smashed into the back end of a vehicle stopped at a red light. I had been high for several days. The car was totaled, but no one was injured. This, too, was a miracle of God’s grace. The pattern of chaos intensified: cars and women, my behavior out of control. Fired from my job, my new car, a Datsun 280z, was repossessed. My girlfriend’s car was impounded because I illegally parked it. Due to my drugs and negligence, her apartment caught on fire, ruining all of her brand new furniture. After she threw me out, my sister Carole and then my sister Rita took me in,
sobriety, I married my third wife. We had two boys and attended an Episcopal church in Moorestown. After quite a few years, we parted, but this time was different ― no clothes on the street. God guided both of us through our differences so we could put our sons first. This is what God has done for me: He has healed my life in ways I never imagined could happen. He gave me the gift of sobriety and peace of mind. One of my children from the girls I got pregnant years ago wanted to find her birth father, which was me. When Bonnie turned 21, we met, and we have formed a blessed relationship. She, along with her husband and two children, now attend FAC. My daughter, Danielle, whom I abandoned after two years, has forgiven me, along with her mother, as I shared with them that I am no longer the man I used to be. Today, we form a strong bond, and through my two daughters, I am a grandfather six times. My two sons, Justin and Adam, have also made me a proud father. They have graduated from college;
Justin in law school and Adam working as an account manager. What a miracle of God’s grace that I have a family! Thank you, Jesus. Eleven years ago, I was invited by my brother-in-law Eric to attend a father and son barbeque at FAC. Justin and Adam were young at the time. Since that event, I have found my church home. I began attending the men’s breakfasts on Wednesday mornings. Through Band of Brothers, I formed relationships with men of Christ for the first time in my life. One Saturday while I was cycling, I met up with Phil Harden, at that time the chaplain at Fort Dix Prison and member of FAC. From that day, Phil has been my spiritual mentor. We began meeting on Friday mornings, and we still meet periodically. Phil was the pastor who baptized me at a Band of Brothers breakfast several years ago. The Holy Spirit continues to change me from the inside. And God answered my prayer to bring someone into my life to love. My present fiancé Carol knows I am not the man I used to be. This, too, is wonderful. Today I am honored to be a head usher at FAC on Saturday nights. Using my God given talents, I have volunteered for the facility ministry and have recently been appointed the facilitator in the Conquering Chemical Dependence group, a Christ-centered 12Step Program that meets every Wednesday evening in the Barn. I want to inspire and encourage other men who may have similar problems that I had to spare them some of the griefs and heartache I experienced. I also work full-time for an all Christian company. God has transformed my life in miraculous ways. I never felt worthy of God in my life at all. I know I am not worthy. It is God’s salvation and grace working in and through me. I am a blessed man. I still get on my knees every morning, thanking God for my new life and asking the Holy Spirit to move me in the direction He wants for me — not what I want, but what God wants for me. Thank you, Jesus, for making me the man I am today. I am not the man I used to be. Praise God. •
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
FASA BANQUET God is taking the Fellowship Alliance Southern Africa (FASA) Ministry to an all new level! We can’t wait to share the excitement with you! God is at work in amazing ways in the lives of the youth in South Africa, and He has big plans for the future of FASA.
Five Fabulous FASA Facts
Date & Location: Fri., Dec. 2, Ramblewood Country Club Time: 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Cost: $40.00 4. The FASA Island gets a makeover and a new name:
The FASA Retreat & Conference Center!
What has been renovated? And for what purpose?
5. An all new and very exciting FASA internship program is
being implemented!
We’re looking for how many interns?!
All are invited to hear more about these five fabulous things ― and so many more! ― at the FASA Banquet! Please join us for our first banquet where we will share an elegant dinner, participate in a live and silent auction and hear how God is using FASA to create the South African church of tomorrow today! Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.myfac.org/register. Hope to see you there!
1. Jody & Kathy Adams are moving to South Africa!
If you have questions, contact Beth Hackett, bethannhackett@gmail.com, or 609-510-8401.
Why would an FAC elder and his wife sell their family business and home to move to South Africa?!
2. First Annual Youth Leadership Camp happened in October!
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What happens when two non-profits and a local church serve together and invest in the youth of South Africa? Lives are changed!
connect with us!
3. Our 2017 Trips are scheduled!
Twitter: @facFASA | Google+: fasafac
Can anyone say seven trips?!
Join the FASA group on The Hub, www.myfachub.org.
www.myfac.org/fasa
Instagrams: fasa_fac | Facebook: FASAfac
FACTS & FIGURES
Connection | Newsletter
date
General Fund
budget
actual
9.4 $ 69,615 $ 9.11 $ 69,615 $ 9.18 $ 69,615 $ 9.25 $ 69,615 $ Total Year-to-Date
58,984 54,306 52,785 60,320
difference
$ ( 10,631) $ ( 15,309) $ ( 16,830) $ ( 9,295)
$ 278,460 $ 2,714,985
$ 226,395 $ 2,199,613
$ ( 52,065) $ $ ( 515,372)
9.4 9.11 9.18 9.25
$ $ $ $
4,808 4,808 4,808 4,808
$ $ $ $
$ $ $( $
131 1,160 1,506) 719
Total Year-to-Date
$ $
19,232 187,512
$ $
504 34,675 $
Missions Fund
4,939 5,968 3,302 5,527
$ 19,736 $ 222,187
Care Fund
9.4 $ 3,571 9.11 $ 2,537 9.18 $ 2,952 9.25 $ 2,334 Total $ 11,394 Year-to-Date $ 119,484
Kingdom Vision Fund
9.4 $ 18,105 9.11 $ 26,748 9.18 $ 18,552 9.25 $ 17,161 Total $ 80,566 Year-to-Date $ 1,101,778 date
adults
workers
children
total
9.4 9.11 9.18 9.25
1722 1888 1853 1555
75 63 153 91
268 299 278 345
2065 2250 2284 1991
This report is based on a 12-month, evenly distributed budget. Actual expenses fluctuate throughout the budget year. We conduct regular financial reviews to determine whether ministry expenses need to be trimmed.
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Fellowship Alliance Chapel | November 2016
Adults 50+
Ed Brokhoff 609-200-2019 edantbro@gmail.com
Alpha
Explore the meaning of life Dave and Judi Shoemaker 609-504-2745
After Alpha
Rich Janiszewski 609-413-3311 rajpaint@aol.com
Assimilation & Guest Services Pastor Doug Bazigian, x128 dougb@myfac.org
miniChurches
Rev. Dave Krilov, x105 davek@myfac.org
Sage Builders
Rev. Glenn Kantner, x106 glenn@myfac.org
Ushers & Greeters
Pastor Doug Bazigian, x128 dougb@myfac.org
Venture 18//23
Bryan & Lisa Russell venture1823@myfac.org
Women Carol Batten, x109 carol@myfac.org
Ministry Assistant
Debbie Schneck, x125 debbie@myfac.org
aWAKEN
Monika Tockstein 609-268-1238 mtockstein@gmail.com
Deepening Groups
Warnesia Travasso, x141
Fresh Hope
Kid BLAST Preschool
Marcy Hutchinson marcyhutchinson30@comcast.net
#Momlife
Michele Fleckenstein 609-654-2796 mlfleckenstein@outlook.com
Walking in Grace
Jill Borsky 609-760-5354 jillborsky@gmail.com
Men Pastor Erik Rebstock, x116 erikr@myfac.org
warnesiat@myfac.org
(Birth-Kindergarten) • Jane Beebe, x101 jane@myfac.org • Cathy Watson, x117 cathy@myfac.org
Kid BLAST Elementary (Grades 1-4) Warnesia Travasso, x141 warnesiat@myfac.org
Kid BLAST Clubs
Warnesia Travasso, x141 warnesiat@myfac.org
Youth Rev. Erik Jarvis, x118
Band of Brothers Breakfasts erikj@myfac.org Michael More’ dembums1@gmail.com.
Catalyst Men’s Groups Brian Gahman brian.gahman@lmco.com
facWILD
Rodney Sager rsagerjr@comcast.net 856-924-4631
Golf League
George Bradley george.bradley@yahoo.com
Men of Iron
Bill Cariss bcariss@holmanauto.com
Timothy Project
Rodney Sager rsagerjr@comcast.net 856-924-4631
Velocity Men’s Groups Pastor Erik Rebstock, x116 erikr@myfac.org
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Children
Jennifer Green 856-985-5524 jenniferg15@verizon.net
Ministry Assistant Pat Vickery, x132 pat@myfac.org
Level 5 (Grade 5) Russ Batten, x134 russ@myfac.org
Planet 678 (Grades 6-8)
Special Needs Warnesia Travasso, x141 warnesiat@myfac.org
Friendship Bible Class Melissa King snow@myfac.org
SNOW Kids
Warnesia Travasso snow@myfac.org
SNOW Den
Leah Bronczyk, x304 SNOWDen.fac@gmail.com
Other Ministries Camp FAC
609-714-4035 info@campfac.org
Hospitality
Ed & Deb Jurimas, x127; x119 edj@myfac.org; debj@myfac.org
Worship Pastor Doug Ingram, x137 dougi@myfac.org
Production
Pastor Nick Simpson, x110 nick@myfac.org
Pastor Eddie Jurimas, x104 eddie@myfac.org Trip hotline, x678
Music
Impact (Grades 9-12)
Choir
Rev. Mike Williams, x108 mike@myfac.org Trip hotline, x410
Rob Preim rob@myfac.org Jerry Braatz, Sr. 609-268-8656 nacle100@aol.com
CD & DVD Duplication Bill and Cathy Kamps 856-596-8408 clkprov356@verizon.net
Connection | Newsletter
Care Ministries Financial assistance Care Center
Anne Simms 609-975-9741 carecenter@myfac.org
Practical help Phil Morgan
philmorgan83@gmail.com
Crew 318
Joe Pagano x318 crew318@myfac.org
FAC Wheels
Jim Hogan, x306 facwheels@myfac.org
Food Pantry
Darlene Taylor foodpantry@myfac.org
Fresh Hope Auto Mark McGuigan fhauto@myfac.org
Good $ense
Chuck Riley goodsense@myfac.org
Hope Garden
Frank Mandy frankrmandy@gmail.com
Emotional support Pastoral Care
Pastor Brent Brendle, x129 brentb@myfac.org (A complete list of support groups can be found on page 20.)
Missions & Outreach Angel Tree
Dave and Judi Shoemaker 609-504-2745
Partnership Coordinators • Family Trip to WV Shawn Mosher familytrip@myfac.org • FASA (Southern Africa) Jim Walter jtwalter@me.com • Ukraine Andy Hall ukraine@myfac.org • World Ministries Dave Hine dhhine@gmail.com • Young Life Geoff Carleton yl@myfac.org
edj@myfac.org • Ed Brokhoff • Rob Eiler • Ben Glatz • Ron Jacobs • Ryan O’Rourke • Chris Rymarz • Ed Walls
Facilities Scheduler Deb Jurimas, x119 debj@myfac.org
Technology
Scott Urwiler, x113 Maintenance and IT Supervisor scott@myfac.org
Wedding & Funeral Coordinator
Jocelyn Stainback, x402 funerals@myfac.org weddings@myfac.org
Service Projects
Tracy LaRosa projects@myfac.org
Support Team Administrative
Chris Rose, x135 Administrative Director chrisrose@myfac.org • Lauren Brown, x107 laurenb@myfac.org • Heather Costomiris, x115 heatherc@myfac.org • Joanne Horner, x111 joanne@myfac.org • Tess Jurimas, x126 Graphic Designer tess@myfac.org
Bookkeeper
Donna Beridon, x103 donna@myfac.org
Facilities
Ed Jurimas, x127
_______________________
For more information about FAC ministries, go to www.myfac.org.
Senior Pastor Marty Berglund Executive Pastor Brian Snyder brian@myfac.org Executive Pastor of Ministries Don Hay don@myfac.org 199 Church Road 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 Website: www.myfac.org E-mail: info@myfac.org Elders: Pastor Marty Berglund, Jody Adams, Ryan King, Phil Morgan, Bryan Russell Camp FAC 110 Sycamore Avenue Marlton, NJ 08053 The Connection Designer: Tess Jurimas Editor: Lynn Guise Writers: Laurie Berglund,
Sherri Bolognone, Nancy Ellis, Danielle Street, Donna Thomas Please submit family announcements to lynn@myfac.org by the 5th of the month prior to publication.
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199 Church Road Medford, NJ 08055 | 609-953-7333 | w w w.my fac.org
Our Foundation: The Cross Perhaps the most well-known verse in the Bible is John 3:16. In a conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, a teacher in Israel, Jesus told him that a new birth and faith in Him were required for entrance into heaven. He told him the plan of salvation: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” In this one sentence is all the information you need to understand salvation. Christianity is based on the Bible as a whole, but that one sentence from Jesus is considered a summary of all that is contained in the Bible. The Old Testament prophesies about it, and all of the New Testament is built on it. Through His death on a cross, Jesus offers the forgiveness of sins, making a bridge to a Holy God. When we choose to believe the words of John 3:16, ask forgiveness for our sins, and accept the free gift of salvation, Jesus says that we have eternal life in heaven. In this life, Jesus wants to have a relationship with us. He wants to help us live a righteous, blessed life. That does not mean that we will be perfect or that we will have everything we want. It does mean that He will be with us every day and in every situation until we meet Him in heaven. At FAC, salvation is the foundation for everything we believe, every decision we make, and every ministry we have. What you believe about salvation is the most important decision you will ever make. Ask any of our leaders to pray or talk with you about salvation.
Our Mission Accepting the gift of salvation is just the beginning of life with Jesus. At FAC, we emphasize the importance of connecting to God, His people, and His work. Ephesians 2: 8-9, says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." These connections, then, are not for our own merit; rather, they are a recognition of what we owe to Jesus coupled with a desire to grow in an understanding of who He is and what He wants us to do.
connect to god Read the Bible regularly; start with the first four Books of the New Testament. Take time to pray. Attend worship services.
connect to god’s people Choose to participate in a Bible study at FAC. We offer groups for all ages and life situations.
connect to god’s work Find ways to actively serve Him: work with children or youth; get involved in missions; participate in caring for people in need; be a greeter. Ask Him to show you the right area for your service. There are many opportunities to serve right at FAC. These are the majors at FAC. Don’t miss Pastor Marty’s messages about The Cross. The Cross is our central focus; it’s foundational. We pray that you will make it your foundation and that you will join us in our mission.