Connection | Fellowship Alliance Chapel by Fellowship Alliance Chapel

CONNECTION FELLOWSHIP ALLIANCE CHAPEL — MEDFORD, NJ — MARCH 2017

PG. 20

Elder Candidates “If anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach.” - Titus 1:6-9

new staff: suresh thomas

young adults Page 12

walking in grace women’s conference – Page 17

new men's study

elder candidates

God@Work: linda mahon

Page 7

Page 18

Pages 20-21

Pages 27-29

Contents | February 2017 4

“being church”

elementary

Grades 1 through 4

Pastor Marty Berglund

encouragement for the journey Laurie Berglund

7 new staff member Suresh Thomas

8 preschool ministry

Birth through Kindergarten

middle school

news & notes

Grades 5 through 8

high school

Grades 9 through 12

young adults

mari lynne snyder has retired!

14-17

women’s ministry

18-19

men’s ministry

20-21

two new elder candidates

Nursery and classes are provided during every service for babies through fourth graders. Ask a greeter for directions to classes.

small groups

camp fac

24-26

outreach & missions

27-29

god at work: linda mahon

Interpretation for the hearing impaired is available during the 11:00 a.m. worship service. The Friendship Bible Class for teens and adults with special needs meets during the 9:00 a.m. Sunday service. Location: New Worship Center in the children’s area at the top of the steps.

New to FAC?

Stop by the Guest Services area after services. Get some coffee and snacks and find out more about FAC. Five minutes is all it takes!

care groups directory

Saturday: 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

WORSHIP SERVICES

facts & figures

32-33

campus map

34-35

directory

NEW? GET CONNECTED! check out our social media sites

create a profile on the hub

Fellowship Alliance Chapel

Get e-mail updates from your groups, set up automatic giving, or search the church directory. myfac.ccbchurch.com

@FAC_Tweets

download our mobile app

fellowshipalliance

Watch or listen to sermons, register for events, or view the church calendar. Available for Android and iPhone: myFAC Mobile

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

Stay in touch with Marty through social media:

BEING CHURCH “The church of the Apostles was a living miracle, and so should the church of the nineteenth century be. ” Dear Church Family,

oing to church and being the church are really two different things. Many millions of people go to church every week. What I mean is they attend a weekend service of a local church, and that’s great. My prayer is that millions more will begin attending a church and experience for themselves what God has to reveal to them. People who don’t even attend a church really hold themselves back intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.

You see, God has designed the Church to feed people like a shepherd feeds his sheep. (Psalm 23, John 21) By God’s design, the community of Believers gathering to study God’s Word, worshiping God together, deepening their relationship with one another, and reaching out for others to join is stimulating. Intellectually, new insights are learned about God, people, life, truth, reality, falsehood, deception, evil, and righteousness. Emotionally, people in church learn how to express themselves to God and to each other; balance their feelings; find love; and grow in understanding of themselves, God, and others. Spiritually, in church, people experience the supernatural God changing their desires, awakening their conscience, finding freedom from guilt, experiencing God’s love, and even getting to see and hear about miracles. Personally, I actually feel sorry for people who don’t go to church. They stunt themselves in many ways and hold themselves back from all God and life has to offer them. But all of the benefits and excitement and joy and fulfillment in life from going to church is never experienced by those who just attend. In fact, you might be reading this and thinking, “I’ve gone to church for years, and I’ve never experienced what Marty is talking about.” Well, I suggest it is because you

just attended. You never actually experienced church because you never were a part of the Church. Oh, but you say, “I went to this program and did that event and even served for years with kids, etc.” That’s great and very commendable. I’m proud of you. But could it be that you did all that and missed what the Church really was supposed to be? Could it be the church you attended and worked in never taught you about the Church or God’s design for it? Could it be that you need to rethink the Church and take another try at experiencing all God wants you to experience in His family? I’d like to end with a challenge ― a challenge for you to consider the question personally about the Church and your life. I firmly believe God wants you to experience much more love and forgiveness, truth and joy, power and companionship than most people do in their church attendance. I challenge you to come and experience what your life can be if you’ll join me and others at FAC as we seek to be the Church. It’s not always easy, but it’s extremely rewarding. As our founder, A.B. Simpson said “The church of the Apostles was a living miracle, and so should the church of the nineteenth century be. Anything less and anything else is a disappointment to God and to every true man.” So let it be in the twenty-first century as we move together to be the Church.

Love never fails,

Pastor Marty Berglund Senior Pastor

Connection | Newsletter

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 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 at www.myfac.org/events, or register in person at a Guest Reception. Check your bulletin for dates for March Guest Receptions. If you would like more information, contact Pastor Doug Bazigian, dougb@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x128.

Elder Candidates On pages 20 and 21 of this newsletter, you can learn more about two candidates for the position of elder: Juan Cerdan-Diaz and Matt Miller. From March 12 to 19, through the FAC website, myfac.org, you will be able to present your views, if desired, and vote. Please pray for these men and for our elder board.

March 3 & 17 SNOW Den provides a place for adults with special needs to connect to God and to their friends. SNOW Den meets in the Sanctuary 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 March 3 and 17. For more information, send an e-mail to snowden.fac@gmail.com.

Babies through Kindergartners

nursery

held during all worship services

Your News We love to get your family announcements! Send the information and a photo to lynn@myfac.org. Announcements for April are due by March 5.

FAC Wheels SNOW Den

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Providing the “wheels” to bring people to FAC For people in our area who don’t have a car or who can’t drive, our FAC Wheels ministry provides a way for them to attend worship services. We still need volunteer drivers to help for just one service each month. We have a church vehicle or you can use your own. If you are interested in becoming part of the FAC Wheels team or if you need service, contact Jim Hogan, facwheels@myfac.org, or 609-9537333, x306. (Please leave a message.)

• Infants (birth through 14 months) • Toddlers (15 – 24 months)

preschool & elementary • Kid Blast Church Ages 25 months through Grade 4 Held during all worship services • Kid Blast Clubs Ages 4 through Grade 4 Sunday evenings, 6:00 to 8:00, in the Tree House

snow kids

for children with special needs • 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Sundays in Rooms 101 & 102 in our new Worship Center, just inside the doors of the main entrance • Babies through Grade 5 • Provides one-on-one “SNOW buddies” as needed

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE Journey “Nothing cripples fear and builds faith like community”

I’m

still pondering the sermons we all heard together in January and February ― particularly the one about faith. Marty talked about the Biblical idea that the marks of a healthy church are faith, hope, and love. All three of them are things that need to grow in my life. But I think I enjoyed the faith sermon the most because it’s connected to the “one word” I feel God has chosen for my journey this year ― “faithful.” I loved the ladder illustration ― the idea that faith is more than getting my feelings into line with the truth. It’s also leaning my will into the truth. Is that easy for you? It’s not for me! Faith has to do with unseen realities. It says, “I believe what God says about things I cannot see and touch.” This is challenging to us humans because we tend to operate naturally according to what is visible. We say, “I’ll believe that when I see it,” right?! But faith is supernatural. We choose to believe solely because God said it ― whether we can see it or not. A phrase that stuck with me from that sermon is that “faith is based on what God is like; not on what I’m like.” So that means I can’t really have faith outside of truly knowing Him. I don’t have trouble believing that God exists ― I’ve seen too much to deny that! But sometimes

I struggle to have faith in the specifics about His character. I wrote in my journal the next day an area where I thought I was struggling the most on the “faith ladder”: “Where I need to lean into faith is to believe that You are compassionate and good, in spite of the increasing suffering I’m experiencing with my family and my friends at church. What I see doesn’t feel compassionate, and it breaks my heart. It’s easy to wonder where You are and why You’re allowing all this suffering. But I want to lean my will into Your Word, which says You ARE compassionate so I can trust Your character and Your hand.” This is not a “one-and-done” process in my life. And probably not yours either. That, my friends, is why we need church! God knows that this doesn’t come naturally to us. He knows how much encouragement we’re all going to need to keep exercising our faith. That’s why He planned for us to be part of a church family, where we could spur one another on to faith and hope and love. God knew we couldn’t do this on our own, and part of it’s because, like it or not, we are up against a powerful enemy. One of the strongest weapons he wields against us is the temptation to fear. Fear has a way of taking over, of causing us to doubt God, of making us worry about the future. God knew the enemy would use

this weapon against us. That’s why His Word is FULL of these admonitions: “Do not fear”; “Do not be afraid.” He knows when we put our feet on the fear path, the faith we desperately need will always be just out of reach. But He also knows that nothing cripples fear and builds faith like community. That’s why He created church and gave us all the “one anothers”: “love one another,” “encourage one another,” “pray for one another,” etc. When I choose to invest my life in the community of Believers, I put myself in a place where faith can grow because I’m constantly rubbing shoulders with people like you who are trying to trust God like I am. You’re reminding me of truth and sharing with me the way God is working in your lives and you’re praying for me. Those are the things that help my faith to grow an inch at a time. And those are the same things that poke holes in my fear because I remember that I’m not alone on this journey. That’s just one of the many reasons why I’m happy to be part of this wonderful family of faith!

― Laurie Berglund

Laurie loves to receive your comments. Send her a message at laurieb@myfac.org.

Connection | Newsletter

STAFF PROFILE

SURESH THOMAS

Director for Missional Leadership & Outreach I was born and raised in a Syrian Orthodox family, a home that placed great value on professional education. Even though I was groomed to pursue a career in medicine, my dreams were shattered due to some unfortunate socio-cultural realities. This was a spiritually defining-moment in my life that eventually led me to become an agnostic. It was during these few years of active rebellion against God that I had a personal encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ and became His follower at the age of 21. Having been ingrained with great value for formal education, I pursued degrees in Chemistry and Business Administration, which led me to a career in marketing management for a multi-national corporation in India. It was during this period that my heart was drawn towards working with the marginalized people of my city that further advanced my graduate study in Psychiatric Social Work. Having completed this degree program, God opened a door for me to pursue theological studies in Melbourne, Australia, where I met my wife Julie, who is from Sri Lanka. We were married in 1992 and are now parents of our three children, Akshay (22), Talia (18), and Anya (12). Julie is a Montessori teacher and a gifted wedding designer of décor, events, and cakes who owned a successful business for more than seven years. Julie and I have faced and overcome many challenges in ministry life that have strengthened our relationship to each other. We have together served in local church work for more than a decade in India, Sri Lanka, and USA.

My passion and curiosity for learning and growth helped me further pursue a graduate degree in religion from the Canadian Theological Seminary in Saskatchewan, Canada. In 1996, after my studies in Canada, God brought us to Chicago to plant and pastor a church with the C&MA, where I was fully ordained after two years. In 2002, Julie and I went to Sri Lanka to serve the at-risk youth of that war-torn nation. During the next three years, we established several community centers that provided supplementary education, nutrition, drinking water, and sanitation, as well as Bible clubs that have reached more than 1500 children. In 2005, God provided an opportunity to become a Beeson Scholar (Doctorate in Leadership & Preaching) at the Asbury Theological Seminary where I completed a dissertation on the topic, “Empowering the People-of-God to obey God’s missional call upon their life.” Since our return to USA, we established FAMILY CONCERN, a non-profit agency that continued the capacity building effort of these projects in Sri Lanka and India. Atlanta has been our home for the past 10 years. Here, I have been currently involved in both graduate and undergraduate levels teaching Leadership & Missions at several colleges, as well as being involved in part-time missions work within a local church. While much of the ministries today are geared to the gathered church during the weekends, what excites me about this

position at FAC is the opportunity to be a catalyst for empowering and sending of its people for the life transformation in its communities of reach. Through this position, I hope to be a mentor and a coach to those who desire to grow in leadership influence for the sake of God's Kingdom expansion. It is my sincere desire to help each of you discover God's call upon your life and to assist you in any way to obey and grow in that call so that together we can reach every man, woman, and child in our county and beyond. It is my utmost conviction that we are God's good seed (Matthew 13:38) scattered in God's time and place, rooted and planted to grow to God's full potential in each of our lives. I also hope to actively assist our congregation to engage meaningfully with the cultures surrounding the church locally, regionally, and globally for God’s Kingdom expansion.

Favorite Things Book: The Other SIX Days & The Unstoppable Force Movie: Gandhi & Men of Honor Food: Mediterranean cuisine Memory: My wedding day Vacation spot: Mediterranean region Verses: Psalm 103:1-4 Worship song: “Still” by Hillsong

Babies through Kindergartners

PRESCHOOL

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

for parents “Love one another.” That’s what the Bible tells us to do. That’s what Jesus tells us to do. It sounds easy, and sometimes it is ― when it comes to the ones we already love. But, Jesus wasn’t just talking about our spouse and our children. He was talking about everyone. That’s right! Jesus loves everyone, and He wants us to show His love to them too. Loving one another means stopping to help even when others are ignoring the need. It means loving whether you have a little or a lot to give. It means loving a person even if he has wronged

you in the past. Sometimes loving one another is hard. However, it is always worth it because when we love one another, we are showing the love of Jesus. And that is what He has asked us to do! This month, find some time to talk to your child about ways you can show love to your neighbors. Talk about the “neighbors” you see around you. Decide on some ways you and your child can love them. Can you smile and say hello; bake something special for them; bring them flowers, or a special treat? Plan it with your child, and then make it happen!

Grades 1-4

Connection | Newsletter

ELEMENTARY God Called Isaiah

Isaiah saw the Holy God in His glory.

Y K F M S E O D M H N L H O Y

U F X B N H C J N B Y N A O I

J Z A O K V R L E L C B I L G

T U R P B P P S I L E V Z K D

G H K E X R P H G P F K Z N W

T R M F O P N Z J I S E U J X

Z Y H P H Z S C M H S B B K Z

L L H O E F I Y S Y U A G W Y

Z E R D B G I U K J U P I F Q

T P E Y R F L C A L L E D A L

Y U H I E N T B U I Q H Z B H

V R O H W R F I B E O I C G Z

E B O R S Z C A W L V F O X K

Y G T L E W D E Y B L Q A W G

Z S J Y G H X D Q V T U L I W

CALLED COAL GLORY HEBREWS HOLY ISAIAH LIPS PROPHET ROBE THRONE UZZIAH

What kind of car does Mickey Mouse’s wife drive? A Minnie van!

How can you tell the ocean is friendly? It waves

When is the moon the heaviest? When it’s full!

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

YOUTH

MIDDLE SCHOOL GRADES 5-8

spring calendar MARCH 5 — OPERATION FOXTROT Planet 678 & Level 5 Night Game! 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. | at Camp FAC Cost: $10; free for guests, includes dinner and T-shirt

Operation Foxtrot - March 5

MARCH 12 — MS YOUTH GROUP

Planet & Level 5 Night Game! Grades 5-8

Planet 678 & Level 5 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at FAC

Cost: Time:

MARCH 19 — MS YOUTH GROUP

Don’t miss this one! Register online at www.myfac.org/events.

$10.00; free for guests, includes dinner and T-shirt 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. | At Camp FAC

Neon Night! Planet 678 & Level 5 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at FAC

MARCH 26 — MS YOUTH GROUP Planet 678 & Level 5 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at FAC

APRIL 7 TO 9 — SPRING RETREAT Grades 5-8 | $190 |Register online Registration ends on March 19. Guest speaker will be Pastor Jim Entwistle. If you have questions, contact Pastor Eddie Jurimas, 609-953-7333, x104, eddie@myfac.org, or Russ Batten, 609-953-7333, x134, russ@myfac.org.

Spring Retreat - April 7 to 9 Grades 5-8 | $190 Guest speaker will be Pastor Jim Entwistle. Registration ends on March 19.

Connection | Newsletter

lake champion march 31 – april 2

silver ring thing | fri., march 24, at marlton assembly of god

Our annual spring retreat to Lake Champion is always a great time for Youth Impact. The retreat center, which hosts hundreds of high school students from various youth ministries, provides students with the chance to develop friendships.

Silver Ring Thing is a response to our culture’s view of love and relationships. Through community-wide outreach events, Silver Ring Thing fights against the “meet-up, hook-up, break-up” mindset of many young people and inspires teens to live a life of purity centered on a relationship with Jesus Christ.

The weekend will feature challenging messages, awesome worship, tons of fun activities, times for hanging out and great food! The cost for the weekend is $199. Registration deadline has already passed, but if you are interested in going, contact Pastor Mike, and we may be able to add you to the group!

Families are encouraged to attend this event together. There is a separate parents’ session at the beginning of the evening to offer resources and help. For more Information and to get tickets, go to www.silverringthing.com/events/marltonnj.

connect on social media

spring calendar MARCH 6 — HS YOUTH GROUP

ADULTS, YOU CAN HELP!

Instagram: FACyouthImpact

Insight, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at FAC

1. Pray for the students and leaders going on the retreat. Pray that God would work in powerful ways during the weekend.

Twitter: FACyouthImpact

MARCH 13 — HS YOUTH GROUP Insight, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at FAC

MARCH 20 — HS YOUTH GROUP Insight, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at FAC

MARCH 24 — SILVER RING THING

2. We have lots of students who would love to go on this retreat, but they can’t afford it. Please pray about making a financial donation to our scholarship fund to help make it possible for them to attend.

Marlton Assembly of God (Details above)

MARCH 27 — HS YOUTH GROUP Insight, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at FAC

MARCH 31 TO APRIL 2 — RETREAT Lake Champion Retreat (Details above)

If you have questions, contact Pastor Mike Williams, 609-953-7333, x108, mike@myfac.org.

Facebook: Youth Impact: Fellowship Alliance Chapel

HIGH SCHOOL GRADES 9-12 11

18 // 23

Venture T

A New Ministry for Young Adults

MAKING DECISIONS FACING CHALLENGES

LEARNING HOW TO KNOW WHERE GOD FITS INTO ALL THAT UNCERTAINTY

hose of you between the ages of 18-23 are within one of the most exciting periods of your entire life. Yet each unfamiliar turn can be a big challenge when living it for the first time. The truth is, you will always find incredible value in facing those challenges in a community of friends and peers. More than just people going through the same things at the same time, they become an extension of your family. This is exactly what Venture 18//23 is all about. Venture 18//23 is a community of young men and women “doing life” together: building genuine relationships, influencing one another, making decisions, and facing challenges. Most important, you grow to understand where God leads in all that uncertainty. Regular meetings take place on Tuesdays each week in the FAC Fellowship House (219 House). There will also be regular “community nights” on alternating days throughout the month designed for fun and friendship-building. Want to find out more? Get all of our e-mail updates by requesting to join our group on The Hub on the homepage of the church website, www.myfac.org. You are also encouraged to follow us on Twitter (@ venture1823) and on Instagram (Venture1823) for regular posts. Feel free to contact Bryan and Lisa Russell at venture1823@myfac.org with any questions you may have. March 2 – Game Night, 7:00 p.m. at Fellowship House 7 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House 14 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House 18 – Game Night, 7:00 p.m. at Fellowship House 21 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House 24 – Coffee House, 7:30-10:00 p.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 6 Poplar Ave., Maple Shade 26 – Praise and Worship Night, details TBA 28 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House April

For more information and to sign up for regular updates, contact Bryan and Lisa Russell at venture1823@myfac.org. venture 1823

venture 18//23

4 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House 6 – Game Night, 7:00 p.m. at Fellowship House 11 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House 18 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House 22 – Game night, 7:00 p.m. at Fellowship House 25 – Group Study, 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship House

Connection | Newsletter

MARI LYNNE SNYDER HAS RETIRED! of other secretarial tasks that could come up at any time!

wanted me to. I love spending time with my four grandchildren and loving on them.”

When Mari Lynne’s daughter, Stefani, became ill in 2001 with a recurrence of leukemia, she cut back her work hours to two days a week. Stefani went to be with Jesus in January of 2002.

Mari Lynne’s schedule is very different these days! On Mondays, she has her youngest granddaughter, Niara (six months), all day. She picks up her two grandsons, Jayden (age ten) and Josiah, (age six), from school; helps them with their homework; and gives them dinner. She also watches Niara several mornings a week while her mom works on her schoolwork. Niara, Jayden, and Josiah are Mari Lynne’s son BJ and his wife Michel’s children.

As FAC grew, Mari Lynne became the “database guru.” She continued to do nametags as well as other duties. She says, “As the church grew, my job changed. Some duties came and went, but I always loved my job. The best thing about my job was working with people who love the Lord. Also, I prefer working behind the scenes so the job was right for me. I really liked making sure that everything was ready for the weekend services. For me, that was a highlight of my job.”

After working for 20 years at FAC, Mari Lynne has retired from her job as an administrative assistant, which means she did all kinds of tasks to help keep the office and the weekend services running smoothly. When she began her job in 1996, her weekly responsibilities included the bulletin, prayer requests, and nametags. Her daily responsibilities included a variety

Administrative Director Chris Rose said, “It was such a pleasure to work with Mari Lynne. She truly served our church with her whole heart. Thank you, Mari Lynne, for 20 years of faithful service on the Administrative Team. Enjoy retirement!” Mari Lynne has the best of all possible reasons for retirement: four grandchildren! She says, “God had been nudging me ever since my daughter and daughter-in-law both got pregnant last year that I needed to be home to be able to be a grandmother and watch the kids when their moms

On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., she has her other granddaughter, Makaira (nine months). Makaira is Mari Lynne’s daughter Melani and her son-in-law Zach Davis’s daughter. Mari Lynne is also looking forward to her youngest son Richie’s marriage to Tracy Herzer later this month. On Fridays, Mari Lynne says that she tries to take time off to spend with her husband, Brian, since it is his day off. Brian is an Executive Pastor at FAC. So, it’s easy to see that Mari Lynne is not really retired ― just traded one job for another! It is also easy to see that while she loved her 20 years at FAC, she loves her new “retirement”!

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

WOMEN

Women@fac In the Wildflowers In the Wildflowers is a group for women whose objectives are ― • To offer victims of sexual abuse hope for their own healing through the visual storytelling of Julie Woodley and the personal journeys of five other women. • To eliminate feelings of isolation and to create a safe environment for healing, by allowing the viewer to witness a similar community working toward healing. • To lead the viewer to the Biblical understanding and acceptance of God’s total and unconditional love and forgiveness. The format of In the Wildflowers includes a DVD curriculum, along with a workbook for each participant. Each video will feature Christian counseling professionals who will focus on a particular stage in the healing process.

Connecting New to FAC? Join us! Upcoming dates: March 1 & 2, 8 & 9, 15 & 16, 22 & 23, 29 & 30

aWAKEN IF:Table

Time: Wednesdays, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., or Thursdays, 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.

Fri., March 17, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. | FAC 219 Fellowship House

Place: FAC 219 Fellowship House

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.

When you are new to FAC, navigating through all of the programs, groups, and service opportunities can feel overwhelming. A new ministry called CONNECTING has been created to help women connect to one another and to FAC. CONNECTING is the place to be for conversation, fellowship, and encouragement.

Cost is $5.00. Register at www.myfac.org/events. Space is limited so sign up as soon as possible. Registration will close once maximum space has been reached and/or on Thursday, March 16.

Feel free to come once or often. 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. If you have questions, contact Betty Ann German, 856-296-7998.

Connection | Newsletter

Fresh Hope for Single Moms Sun., March 26 | 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Fresh Hope is for all single moms and grandmoms raising children under the age of 23 (special needs individuals under the age of 28). The ministry connects single moms who share a common life experience to God’s love through friendship, encouragement, and support. Fresh Hope meets once a month at FAC for dinner, teaching, and fun. Dinner is provided for the moms and their children at 5:00. At 6:00, children’s and youth programs are available, including Kid Blast Clubs, Level 5, and Planet 678. Childcare will be provided for children too young to participate in the FAC ministries. All children must be registered one week prior to the Fresh Hope meeting. Childcare cannot be provided without registration. Please note: Due to legal policies, if you have a child with special needs, inform us during registration. We have a process in place to ensure your child’s safety and best care. Someone from our Children’s Ministry will contact you. To register, go to www.myfac.org/events. There is no cost to attend Fresh Hope.

Clothing Donations for the Fresh Hope Boutique | March 19 | 10:15 to 11:15 Support our single moms by donating seasonal women’s clothing in like-new condition to the Fresh Hope Boutique. Donations may be brought to the garage next to the 195 House in the exit lane from the front parking lot. Please note: We can accept women’s clothing only. For questions or to volunteer to help, contact Kathy Foering, 609-458-9222, or kfoering@comcast.net.

Fresh Hope Boutique Volunteers Needed To help serve our single moms, join the Fresh Hope Boutique team: 1. Host clothing donation collections approximately once a month, usually on a Sunday between services 2. Maintain and prepare the boutique for shopping, usually once a month. 3. Greet, mingle, and help shoppers.

Deepening Groups A Deepening Group provides a covenant community to maturing Christians where you can experience: • 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 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 Go to www.myfac.org/women and complete the Deepening Group Participant Interest Form. If you have questions after reading the information provided on the website, contact Carol Batten at carol@myfac.org or Jennifer Green at jenniferg12@verizon.net.

To get involved, contact Kathy Foering, 609-458-9222.

Toy & Clothing EXCHANGE Mon., April 3| Fellowship Center Drop off: 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. Shopping: 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

All items are FREE! Questions? Contact Debbie Schneck, 609-953-7333, x125; debbie@myfac.org.

Items

• Here's how it works •

After donations are delivered between the hours of 5:30 to 7:15 p.m., you can wait in the Welcome Center until the doors open for shopping. Feel free to drop, shop, or do both!

•

Children’s clothing sizes: Newborn to 14/16 (sorted by size and gender, if possible)

•

Bring your own shopping bags ― or a truck if you are in need of large items.

•

Maternity clothes

•

All items are FREE!

•

Baby equipment (cribs, pack ‘n-plays, high chairs, strollers, etc.)

•

All remaining items will be donated to charity.

•

Please note: no children may attend. No exceptions! This is very important because of the large number of moms, dads, grandparents, and relatives who attend.

•

Children’s toys (in working condition), books, DVD’s

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued to extend faithful love to you.” –Jeremiah 31:3

Created for

LO VE

Walking in Grace Women’s Conference May 19 & 20 in the Worship Center Our hearts long to be loved with an everlasting love because that’s how God created us. But as we look back at what we’ve done, how we’ve treated ourselves and others, and how we’ve treated God, we can only wonder how this kind of love is even possible. The truth is that God loves us unconditionally. He wants us to know Him personally, love Him deeply, and love His people.

You are invited to join us at our two-day women’s

conference at FAC with our speaker, Lisa Harper, as she explores this kind of love and shares with us how we were Created for Love.

GUEST SPEAKER, LISA HARPER

Rarely are the terms hilarious storyteller and theological scholar used to describe the same person, but Lisa Harper is anything but stereotypical! She combines sound Scriptural exposition with relatable anecdotes and comedic wit. Lisa Harper is also a well-known author of many books, including her latest study, The Gospel of Mark.

For registrations made on or prior to March 15, the price is $59.00; after March 15, the rate is $79.00 per person. For groups of eight or more, contact Heather Costomiris, 609-953-7333, x115, or heatherc@myfac.org. Fees include all materials, dessert on Friday night, and lunch on Saturday. Payments must be made in full with registrations. If you have questions, contact Debbie Schneck, 609-953-7333, x125, or debbie@myfac.org.

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

MEN

Men@fac Men’s Ministry Introduces a Powerful New Study Thurs., March 2, continuing for 6 additional weeks | 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. Location: Fellowship Center | No registration is necessary. Just show up! The pressures of manhood can be enormous, and they're only intensified by the messages you receive from our culture. Sometimes it seems as though everyone wants something from you. Does being a real man mean having a perfect family, a corner office, a luxury car, and a massive home? Or, is there something more to life ― a source of deeper satisfaction? The Bible has some surprising things to say about being a man. Seven Questions is a study from North Point Ministries that enables you to explore God's design for manhood. During the sessions, you'll be introduced to questions most men consider:

•

Where Am I?

•

What's My Story?

•

Who Am I?

•

Why Am I Here?

•

Where Am I Going? •

•

Who are the people I Can Trust?

What about Women?

The questions may seem elementary, but they elicit powerful discussions as Seven Questions invites men to “live free and lead well.” If you have questions, contact Men’s Pastor Erik Rebstock, erikr@myfac.org, 609-953-7333, x116.

Connection | Newsletter

Christ-Centered, 12-step Program Men of FAC, if you are battling a drug or alcohol problem, join us every Wednesday evening from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Barn.

BAND OF BROTHERS Weekly Men's Breakfasts In March, we are continuing our series entitled, “Caught at the Crossroads: A Study of Matthew 7.” Band of Brothers meets every Wednesday in March in the Fellowship Center at 6:30 a.m. No registration; just show up. Bring your friends and enjoy a great catered breakfast. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated.

We deal in a Christ-centered, 12-step program that allows us to turn our will and life over to Jesus Christ for recovery. Our format features open discussions. If you have questions, contact Dan Mignogna, 609-902-3294.

For further information, contact Michael More’, dembums1@gmail.com.

FAC WILD GO KART RACING Sat., March 18 | 10:00 a.m. | Speed Raceway, 1103 Rt. 130 South, Cinnaminson Cost: $70 for three races, $50 for two races; cost includes pizza after racing Age: 6 and 48" for junior karts; 12 and 56" for senior karts (Note: no tandem karts) Attendees: Approximately 15 to 30 Room: Party Room Racing: Two-race package or three-race package Arcade Tokens: 10 per person Awards: Given for top three finishers in a championship-style race

Changes Coming to Men's Ministry CMG Under Construction Men’s Ministry will be unveiling a new process and a new name in September. In the meantime, participate with us in an exciting series entitled Seven, which is featured on the previous page. If you have questions about Men’s Ministry, contact Pastor Erik Rebstock, erikr@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x116.

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

MEET ELDER CANDIDATE

MATT MILLER HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN ATTENDING FAC? With the exception of a few years when I didn't live in the area, I have attended FAC since 1990.

WHAT MINISTRIES HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN? Originally, I came to FAC because I was working with Young Life at Shawnee High School. I wanted to attend church where many of the students I was working with attended. When I left Young Life, I helped develop the FAC Youth Impact high school ministry. After becoming a therapist, I helped develop the Lay Counseling ministry. My wife Bethany and I have been miniChurch leaders for much of our 17 years of marriage. We've also both served on short-term missions trips to Iraq and South Africa. Presently, I am serving as part of the Men's ministry leadership team.

WHEN DID YOU BECOME A CHRISTIAN? I became a Christian when I was 16 years old. I was raised Catholic and always had God in my life in terms of attending church and going through the process of Catholic education, but I never really understood what it meant to follow Jesus and have a personal relationship with Him until my brother, who had accepted Jesus in college,

gave me a Bible and a devotional for my birthday. I was going through a hard time in my life where I had lost much of what I considered to be my identity. After reading Scripture and studying the devotional, I gave my life to Jesus. I can't say there was one moment where I gave my life to Him. Rather, it was a process of surrendering during that summer. After that summer, I was invited to Young Life where I was discipled and learned what it really meant to follow Jesus and share Him with others.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE VERSE THAT HAS INFLUENCED YOUR FAITH? My favorite passage in Scripture is 2 Corinthians 5:11-21. This passage talks about Christ's love "compelling" us to reach out and share His love with others. It goes on to say that because of Christ, we no longer view people from a "worldly point of view.â&#x20AC;? As a result of Christ and His love for us, everyone we meet in our lives is no longer just a neighbor, a friend, a coworker. Each person we meet is an eternal being with an eternal destiny. That truth has changed my life, my choice of career, and virtually every interaction I have with people.

has challenged and encouraged me throughout our marriage. She is deeply involved in various ministries at FAC, including women's ministry, missions, and production with the creative team. We have two children, Jake and Abby. Jake is in eighth grade and Abby is in sixth grade. We all love Starbucks; games; movies; food; and our pets, Roman, Jude, and Cleo.

HOW DO YOU THINK YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE AS AN FAC ELDER? I am honored and humbled to be a candidate for elder during this exciting time in our history. Just as all the men who have served before me, I will continue to seek God's wisdom and leading and look to Jesus' example throughout my time as an elder. When Jesus encounters people, both in Scripture and throughout history, He cares for their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Trying to love as Christ loves has been the focus of my life in ministry as well as a psychologist. As a church, we need to continually model the love of Christ to one another and to our community. While I'm not precisely sure how God will use me, I'll definitely bring that perspective and filter to the table.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. My wife Bethany and I met 20 years ago at FAC. We will celebrate 18 years of marriage this year. She is an amazing woman who

From March 12 to 19, through the FAC website, myfac.org, you will be able to present your views, if desired, and vote.

Connection | Newsletter

MEET ELDER CANDIDATE

JUAN CERDAN-DIAZ HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN ATTENDING FAC? We began attending FAC in 2007. What ministries have you been involved in? My wife Cheryl and I have been involved together in miniChurch and the Camden Breakfast Outreach. I am currently participating in the Men of Iron ministry, Prayer Team, Usher/Security Team, the Catalyst Men’s Groups, Timothy Project, men’s conference organizing team and the choir.

WHEN DID YOU BECOME A BELIEVER? I was born in Mexico in the small town of Cordoba and grew up in a loving family. I attended the Catholic church faithfully when I was young. However, I did not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It wasn’t until I met Cheryl and her family after coming to the US to graduate school that I was introduced to reading the Word of God on my own. I was 32 years old the first time I had a Bible in my hands, and it changed my life forever. I gave my life to Jesus Christ on May 5, 1995. His Word continues to have a tremendous impact on my life.

DO YOU HAVE FAVORITE VERSES AND BOOKS THAT HAVE INFLUENCED YOUR FAITH?

There are so many verses in the Bible that are very meaningful to me. Joshua 1:89 says, “Do not let this book of the Law depart from your mouth, meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” These verses embrace so much of what my family and I need in order to live our lives with a heart after God, reminding us that He will be with us wherever we go. The living Bible is by far the most influential book in my life.

a very strong influence on me because of his commitment to teaching God’s Word with love and compassion and at all times leading our church with Biblical principles.

I have enjoyed the writings of C. S. Lewis, especially Mere Christianity. This book reveals how a staunch atheist and prestigious Oxford professor became a devoted follower of Christ. I have used Lewis’s testimony to help others understand the precious gift of salvation.

I am committed to trusting and obeying God in everything I do, say, and think. Through God’s Word and the power of prayer, I will seek God’s will to continue to support our church’s mission to connect to God, to His people and to His work and to support our vision to know God’s call and to follow it. My prayer is that we all become engaged in faithfully reading the Scriptures so that we may deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ. I believe this passion to read and learn the Word of God and to apply it to our lives and our church is fundamental for us to be the church God has called us to be.

WHAT PEOPLE HAVE BEEN INFLUENTIAL IN YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY? My wife Cheryl, my parents, and Cheryl’s parents have had a great influence on me because they have modeled what it is to be a Godly person. Several men in the men’s groups, especially Pastor Erik Rebstock have been an important part of my walk with God. Pastor Marty has had

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. Cheryl and I met in college and have been married for 31 years. We have two sons, Andrew, 29, and Adam, 26. Andrew and Deisy have a son, Dominic, who is 17 months old and is a gift from God. Adam and Brianne were married in October.

HOW DO YOU THINK YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE AS AN FAC ELDER?

I believe with all my heart that with the love of Christ we can do all things.

Still looking for topics to study with your group? Sermon Discussion Guides are online! Follow along with the sermon in your group. Download guides at www.myfac.org/guides. Would you like to find a Group? Check out www.myfac.org/findagroup for open groups or join a Starting Point Group by contacting Pastor Doug Bazigian, dougb@myfac.org, 609-953-7333, x128.

Connection | Newsletter

GET READY FOR

CAMP FAC Summer 2017!

Spring is just around the corner, and plans are already underway for another summer of fun and spiritually enriching activities at Camp FAC. As with past summers, we’ll be hosting ministry groups, youth activities, and various outreach events. We’re also looking forward to our fourth season of Sunday morning worship services beginning in June. Camp FAC’s beautiful and relaxed setting is perfect for inviting friends and neighbors to its many ministry activities ― especially if they enjoy the great outdoors! Speaking of the great outdoors, do you have a green thumb or just enjoy being outside in God’s beautiful creation? If so, we have service opportunities for you to connect with FAC’s “Green Team.” Beginning in mid-March, we’ll be organizing our Camp FAC spring clean-up activities. We’ll have a variety of tasks to choose from, such as planting flowers and raking pine needles and leaves, cleaning out pavilions, and sprucing up kitchen and rest room areas. For those of you with power tools, we’ll even have a day for you to come out and demonstrate your skills. Most important, it’s a great time of fellowship and making new friends while doing service for our Lord. Camp FAC is a great environment for getting people together and connecting to God. You can sign up on the Hub under the Camp FAC e-mail group, or respond to e-mail bulletins announcing clean up dates. If you have questions, contact Christina Dutcher, suntina8@aol.com, 609-560-4447. Get your garden tools ready. Spring is just around the corner!

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

MISSIONS

Outreach & Missions TWO SERVICE PROJECTS

Feeding 5000 Sleep Out

The Urban Promise "Pedal for Promise Ride"

April 29 to 30

May 13

Feeding 5000 is bringing awareness to homelessness through a special event by sleeping out under the stars.

Ride your bike with your church family!

Location: New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 240 Creek Rd., Mt. Laurel Date & Time: April 29, 7:00 p.m. to April 30, 7:00 a.m. All proceeds benefit Feeding 5000, a non-profit ministry that provides assistance to the needy and homeless. For more information, go to www.Feeding5000.us/sleepout.

Members of the Urban Promise ride team will be visiting FAC during the weekend services of April 1/2. After each service, look for them at a table in the atrium. They can give you more information and answer your questions. If you sign up to ride during their visit, you will receive a 50% discount on the cost of the ride. You can also register online with Team FAC! Go to www. urbanpromiseusa.org. Look under News & Events, Pedal for Promise, Register for Event. You will see a block for FAC. For more information, send an e-mail to John and Beth Bahm, beth71666@yahoo.com; or Sue Bartholomew, suejane@aol.com; or visit urbanpromiseusa.org.

Connection | Newsletter

FELLOWSHIP ALLIANCE SOUTH AFRICA (FASA)

Dreaming of Summer! “So, whatcha’ doing this summer?” Depending on what season you love the most, you may already be asking this question! Maybe a sunny afternoon on the beach sounds perfect, or maybe it’s a summer evening stroll through the neighborhood. Perhaps it’s a backyard barbeque or a day at the lake that strikes your fancy. The FASA ministry is dreaming big for this summer and wants you to join in the dream!

Connect with us! www.myfasa.org Join the FASA group on The Hub (www.myfac.ccbchurch.com)!

/fasa_fac

Imagine a summer adventure that involves hugs and love, music and laughter, eternal impact and a lasting difference! The FASA dream involves this kind of lifechanging adventure, and it can also involve you! You can make a difference this summer in the lives of children and youth in South Africa by sharing the love and Good News of Jesus!

/FASAfac

FASA is holding two separate Day Camp Trips this summer, serving children in poor towns outside of Lephalale, SA, and a local children’s home. Unlike an afternoon at the beach or a day at the lake, there will be more than mere memories (and maybe a little sunburn) left at the end of the day. Your life will be changed just as much, if not more, than the lives of those you will love and serve in South Africa!

/fasafac

@facFASA

Don’t just dream it ― live it! Visit the FASA website, www.myfasa.org, to start your Missions Adventure application process!

Live the Dream! FASA Day Camp Trips: June 30 to July 11 | July 14 to 25 Applications available until March 31 or until teams are full. Go to www.myfasa.org.

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

MISSIONS

FAMILY MISSIONS TRIP Philippi, West Virginia | July 9 to 14 Dates for Further Information & Preparation • March 19: Trip Testimonials 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.; Chapel • March 26: Last day to sign up for the trip 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.; Chapel • April 30: Meeting at FAC to discuss trip details 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.; Chapel • May 1: 50% of total cost for trip is due.

the United States.

Purpose: To provide all individuals and families ― men, women, children five years of age and older, and those with special needs ― the ability to practice the spiritual discipline of servanthood, share their Christian faith, and provide hope to impoverished regions within

Since 2010, FAC has partnered with World Vision to help the impoverished people of the Appalachia Region. In 2014, FAC sent a team of 18 adults and children, including some with special needs, to West Virginia to provide hope to the people of Philippi in Barbour County. The team projects included repairing homes, community centers, and local churches in order to provide better living conditions for the children in the local area. The group also ran a Vacation Bible Study program for children of all ages. In 2015, FAC sent another team of 21 people back to West Virginia, and in 2016 the number grew to 42 people. The projects have included sheet rocking, painting, roof repair, electrical work, floor repair, bathroom tub replacement, deck repair, sliding glass door replacement, and front door repair. Philippi, WV, is only 6.5 hours away! If you are looking for an opportunity as a family to make a difference, share the Gospel, and get your hands dirty, join us for this life-changing work. No special skills are required for this missions trip. Cost is $370 per person, ages 11 and up; $260 per child, ages 5 through 10.

• May 21: Meeting at FAC to discuss trip details 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.; Chapel • June 1: Final Payment Due • June 11: Meeting at FAC to discuss trip details 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.; Chapel • June 25: Meeting at FAC to discuss trip details 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.; Chapel

Cost includes • All meals during your stay • Housing (may be college dorm, 4-H camp, community center, or public school) • World Vision mission project T-shirt • Devotional and training materials • Evening ministry program • Day-off canoe trip with other recreational options available on your own • Project setup and onsite staffing • Ongoing community involvement by World Vision, including preparation of community members to receive mission team If you have questions or want to sign up, contact Shawn Mosher, familytrip@myfac.org, or 229-630-3220 (cell).

“THEY DID

A BIOPSY, AND IT WAS MELANOMA."

God@Work in the Life of … Linda Mahon

“We

have been at FAC for 17 years. We were attending a Presbyterian church until my daughter, Jennifer, was invited to attend FAC. She said ‘Mom, you have to come to Fellowship Alliance Chapel with me.’ She said it felt like it was home to her. She was right. I did love it and the first time I went, I actually cried because I felt like Pastor Marty was actually talking directly to me. We’ve been here ever since.”

Linda is married to John “Jack” Mahon and has two daughters, Bridgette Henderson and Jennifer Faucett. She is also the proud grandmother of four. Linda and Jack split their time between Medford and Naples, Florida. Linda’s faith has always been strong. Testing tends to make faith stronger. Forty years ago, she had a mole removed from her arm. It was melanoma. They removed all the cancer. “In 2014, I found a lump under my arm, the same arm. They did a biopsy, and it was melanoma. It was back. It had metastasized to two places in the upper chest.

Jack & Linda Mahon

“I went on one medication that had to be stopped because I became toxic. They put me on another medication, an immunotherapy which was administered as four infusions, and that’s when I got severely sick and dehydrated. The first shot was okay. The second damaged my pituitary gland and thyroid. The third shot gave me severe ulcerative colitis, and I ended up in the hospital.” Linda went to the ER at a local hospital where they gave her fluids and sent her home. The next morning she was so sick, her doctor ordered her to another hospital where she was placed in ICU due to her falling blood pressure and severe dehydration. “At four o’clock in the morning, a nurse came in and said she wanted to do a test. She asked me to sign a consent form. I told her that I wanted to see the doctor. “The doctor came in and explained everything to me. I asked if it couldn’t wait until morning and she said an emphatic ‘no!’ So I signed the consent papers. I asked for the doctor to do the test because my condition was deteriorating.

“The doctor said the test would be painful and I was to talk to her about my family to keep my mind occupied. She took my right hand to begin the test. “The test could only be attempted three times. The first time didn’t work. We talked some more. The doctor tried a second time, and that didn’t work either. That’s when I started to pray out loud. I said ‘God, You need to step in here. It’s Your turn. I need Your help! I need You now!’ Then I started reciting Matthew 7:7, ‘Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you.’ And then I recited Isaiah 41:13, ‘For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear, I will help you.’ I don’t consciously know why those Scriptures came to mind, but they were my cry to God. “The doctor attempted the test the third and final time. I looked up at the doctor and asked if she was successful. She shook her head, ‘No, it didn’t work.’ I was so disappointed. Just at that time, the machine began to take my blood pressure again. I looked over at the nurse, and I saw this look on her face. It was unbelievable. She had this shocked look. I turned to the doctor,

and she was in disbelief. She said, ‘Look at your blood pressure!’ I turned to the machine, and it read 135/77! Perfectly normal. That’s when I knew God had intervened. “The doctor bent down and whispered, ‘We’re not allowed to talk religion, but God was with you!’” The next morning, Linda’s daughter called the church and informed Pastor Brent of her condition, and he went to pray with her. She was near death not many hours before. Now she was out of ICU. Linda has been on different medications since August 2015. In April 2016, the PET scan showed she was cancer-free. In June 2016, cancer free again. At the end of August, a PET scan showed the melanoma was back in one lymph node, and it was removed. Cancer-free again. Another PET scan in November was not as good. Four more lymph nodes were found. “I am back on two medications, but I feel good. I am confident that God has great plans for me. “When you first get a serious diagnosis, you cry. You ask all the usual questions: ‘Why me? Why now? Why is this happening?’ What helped me the most was a book a friend gave me called Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young. It helped me stay in His presence.” Linda stays in the Word, reading Jesus Calling and the YouVersion Bible reading

“For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear, I will help you.” —Isaiah 41:13

plans. She spends time alone with God every morning. “I get up; I read my Bible; I read Jesus Calling; and I go into the bedroom and sit there. It’s just me and God. Stay in God’s presence. It is real. It is true. Ask, seek, and knock. He will answer. He has a hold of your right hand! Don’t worry about your future and don’t dwell on your past. Seek His presence. You have to do it.” At the darkest, lowest point, God gave Linda Scripture that assured her that He was there and in control. And the doctor and nurse can attest to that! Linda and her two daughters, Bridgette Henderson and Jennifer Faucett

“God was with me 40 years ago and continues to be by my side. I can honestly say there is nothing too hard for God.” •

Jack & Linda and their four grandchildren

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

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 TB-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, x312 (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 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.)

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-06 on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Contacts: Christine Botti and Jodi Warner, recoverywomen@myfac.org, or 609-953-7333, x313 (Leave a message.)

FACTS & FIGURES

Connection | Newsletter

date

budget

actual

difference

General Fund

1.1 1.8 1.15 1.22 1.29

Total Year-to-Date

$ $ $ $ $ $ $

68,750 68,750 68,750 68,750 68,750 343,750 343,750

$ $ $ $ $

15,671 56,837 66,281 58,747 54,162

$ ( 53,079) $ ( 11,913) $ ( 2,469) $ ( 10,003) $ ( 14,588)

$ 251,698 $ 251,698

$ ( 92,052) $ $ ( 92,052)

$ $ $ $ $

2,063 5,209 6,742 3,830 5,234

$( $ $ $( $$

3,033) 113 1,646 1,266) 4,138

25,480 25,480

$ $

23,078 23,078

$( $(

2,402) 2,402)

1.1 1.8 1.15 1.22 1.29

$ $ $ $ $

543 5,120 2,326 1,885 2,268

Missions Fund

1.1 1.8 1.15 1.22 1.29

Total Year-to-Date

$ $ $ $ $ $ $

5,096 5,096 5,096 5,096 5,096

Care Fund

Total $ 12,142 Year-to-Date $ 12,142

Kingdom Vision Fund

1.1 1.8 1.15 1.22 1.29

$ $ $ $ $

8,791 75,010 19,016 23,086 20,400

Total $ 146,303 Year-to-Date $ 146,303 date

1.1 1.8 1.15 1.22 1.29

adults

808 1198 1924 1956 2083

workers

15 35 58 72 72

children 106 224 360 353 350

total

929 1457 2342 2381 2505

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.

ing

F e l low Ce ship n t er

Slid e

ors

vat

Ele

101 102

ing

G Ser uest vice s CO

g win

AR TY UR

Atr ium

Worship Center

Fam Roo ily m fé

l ape

Sta

Level 1

201

203

202

Eleva tors

204

Level 2

Slide

um ips Balc (C rem losed fo ony r Co nstru cti

on)

Close d

for C onst ru

ction

Fellowship Center Chapel A Wing B Wing C Wing

L1-Worship Center L1-Atrium L1-Café L1-Guest Services L1-Family Room L2-Tree House L2-Nursery

Fellowship Center

Worship Center

205 206 207

Kitc

hen

184

-Fellowship Center -Chapel & C Wing -A & B Wing

Fellowship Center

199 a

Administrative Offices

195

Fellowship House

219

Adult Ministries Offices

197

CH RO AD

CHUR

IN MA ING K R PA

COURTYARD

E IN MA RANC T EN

541 Rt.

Future Expansion Parking

Children & Youth Offices

199 b

Food Pantry

-Worship Center -Kingdom Cafe -Tree House (Preschool Wing)

Worship Center

The Barn

215

Care Center

207

Fellowship Alliance Chapel | March 2017

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

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

Michael More’ dembums1@gmail.com.

facWILD

Rodney Sager rsagerjr@comcast.net 856-924-4631

Venture 18//23

Golf League

Women Carol Batten, x109 carol@myfac.org

Ministry Assistant

Debbie Schneck, x125 debbie@myfac.org

aWAKEN

Monika Tockstein 609-268-1238 mtockstein@gmail.com

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

Pastor Doug Bazigian, x128 dougb@myfac.org Bryan & Lisa Russell venture1823@myfac.org

Children

Jennifer Green 856-985-5524 jenniferg15@verizon.net

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

Ministry Assistant Pat Vickery, x132 pat@myfac.org

Level 5 (Grade 5) Russ Batten, x134 russ@myfac.org

Planet 678 (Grades 6-8)

Pastor Eddie Jurimas, x104 eddie@myfac.org Trip hotline, x678

Impact (Grades 9-12)

Rev. Mike Williams, x108 mike@myfac.org Trip hotline, x410

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

Music

Rob Preim rob@myfac.org

Choir

Jerry Braatz, Sr. 609-268-8656 nacle100@aol.com

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 30.)

Missions & Outreach Angel Tree

Dave and Judi Shoemaker 609-504-2745

Partnership Coordinators • Family Trip to WV Shawn Mosher familytrip@myfac.org • FASA (South 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

Service Projects

Tracy LaRosa projects@myfac.org

Support Team Administration

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 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

Weddings & Funerals Jocelyn Stainback, x402 funerals@myfac.org weddings@myfac.org

_______________________

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, Joe Jalkiewicz, Donna Thomas Please submit family announcements to lynn@myfac.org by the 5th of the month prior to publication.

199 Church Road Medford, NJ 08055 | 609-953-7333 | w w w.my fac.org

Our Foundation: Salvation 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 contains 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. Salvation 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.