here@first - nov 2011
DESCRIPTION
November NewsletterTRANSCRIPT
“Worshiping God together, Growing in Christ-like maturity, Reaching those unconnected to Jesus Christ and Impacting our community and the world.” Volume 32
here@FIRST
first presbyterian church
November2011
BRIDGES FOUNDED
ON THE CORNERSTONE:
Reaching Across, Reaching Out
Here@First is available in a PDF format on the church web page at www.fpcyakima.com For inquiries, submissions, omissions, and corrections contact Curt Rosenkranz in the church office. 248-7940 x 113 [email protected]
First Presbyterian Church of Yakima9 South 8th AveYakima, WA 98902(509) 248-7940
in this issue345
6&78&91011121314151515
November EventsPastor JackFamilySeniorsChildrenPreschoolWomenStudentsDevotionalAnnouncementsCristo ViveLibraryGhormley
Cookie ChartNov 6 N-SNov 13 T-ZNov 20 A-FNov 27 G-MPlease bring a dozen(or more) cookieson your week, and cans of food for Calvary Rescue Mission
Contemporary Worship - led by Contemporary Worship Team 8:00a & 9:30a Sanctuary EveryoneTraditional Worship - led by Temple Choir & Organ 11:00a Sanctuary EveryoneWorship - Cristo Vive (Spanish) 12:15p Chapel EveryoneKidZone Sunday Classes 9:30a Upstairs Rooms K-5th Adult Ed Bible Class 9:30a Adult Ed Adults40 Days of Purpose 9:30a Mezzanine AdultsGolden Circle 9:30a Lounge AdultsStudent Small Groups 11:00a Power House Gr 6-12FUSE - Fusing Families & Church Together for Christ 11:00a Gym / Lounge Everyone
Sunday Mornings
Alive in the piritHave you ever wondered if there is more to life? Have you ever thought you were destined for something greater? Have you ever believed you were put here on earth for a higher purpose? Paul’s letter to the Ephesians offers a way for the church, the body of Christ, to embrace life in the way God intended. The means through which we do this is by trusting in the blessings and power given to us in Christ by the Holy Spirit: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 1:3).
Over the course of this series, we will explore the supernatural power given to us by God who invites us to receive His blessings and live the life He wants us to truly live! Ephesians offers great insights into 1) the blessings from God 2) the call to maintain the unity in practice which Christ has brought about through His resurrection and 3) practical instruction on how to live a holy, pure, and Christ inspired life.
Join us Sundays this fall as we discover what it means to be ALIVE as never before!
NOVEMBER6 – “Resurrect Your Marriage” — Ephesians 5:22-33 (PRAYER SUNDAY)13 – “ALIVE with Family and at Work” — Ephesians 6:1-920 – “Equipped For Life” — Ephesians 6:10-20 (DEDICATION SUNDAY)
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November Events
M-W-F Exercisers 8:45a-9:45a Gym/GR Sr AdultsMonday TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) 10:00a Adult Ed Everyone Overeaters Anonymous 12:00p Adult Ed Everyone Al-Anon 5:15p Adult Ed EveryoneTuesday Women’s Bible Study (Philippians) 9:45a Parlor Women Living a Spirit Led Life - Women’s Bible Study 9:15a Gym WomenWednesday Men’s Noon Bible Study 12:00n Adult Ed Men Women of Action 9:30a Chapel WomenThursday Contemporary Worship Rehearsal 6:00p Sanctuary Christian Service Brigade 6:00p Room 217 Boys Temple Choir Rehearsal 7:00p Choir Rm
Weekday Events
Sat, October 29 Pursuing God for a Powerful Marriage 9:30 - 3 Offsite WomenSun, October 30 Flu Shots in Garden Room all morning Garden RoomMon, October 31 Trunk or Treat 5:30p - 7:30p Parking Lot Everyone
Tue, November 1 Worship Ministry Team 5:15p Rhino RoomTue, November 1 Adult Education Ministry Team 7:00p Adult EdWed, November 2 WOW (Women’s Ministy) Meeting 4:00p Rhino RoomThur, November 3 Happy Travelers Meeting 1:30p Adult EdThur, November 3 Senior Adult Ministries Meeting 3:00p Adult EdThur, November 3 FM Board Meeting 4:00p Lounge Thur, November 3 MOPS Set Up 6:30pFri, November 4 MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9:00a Gym Sun, November 6 Operation Christmas Child - Fill Boxes 11:00a Gym FUSE FamiliesSun, November 6 Veterans Day Memorabilia all morning Garden Room EveryoneWed, November 9 Last Weds@First Fri, November 11 Cristo Vive Women’s Craft Night 6:30p Lounge Women November 11, 12, 13 SlamQuest (at Ghormley for Mid High) all weekend Ghormley 6th - 8th gradersSat, November 12 Prayer Shawl Ministry 9:00a Mid High Room Knitters Sat, November 12 Veterans Dinner & Program 6:00p Gym EveryoneSun, November 13 Dedicate Shoeboxes (Operation Christmas Child) all morning Sanctuary/Garden Room EveryoneSun, November 13 Angel Tree Kick Off Foyer EveryoneTue, November 15 Service Ministry Team Meeting 7:00a Adult EdWed, November 16 Thanksgiving Dinner and Worship Service 5:30/6:30p Gym/Sanctuary Everyone Wed, November 16 Mabel Swan Thanksgiving 12:00p Thur, November 17 MOPS Set Up 6:30pThur, November 17 Preschool Advent Festival 10:00a Gym Preschool FamiliesFri, November 18 MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9:00a Garden Room Fri, November 18 Preschool Advent Festival 10:00a Gym Preschool FamiliesMon, November 21 Preschool Thanksgiving SET UP all day GymTue, November 22 Kaffee Klatsch 9:30a Garden Room EveryoneTue, November 22 Preschool Thanksgiving Feast 10:00a Gym Preschool FamiliesWed, November 23 Preschool Thanksgiving Feast 10:00a Gym Preschool FamiliesTue, November 22 Session/Dinner 6:00p Garden Room/Mid High RoomThurs & Fri Nov 24,25 Happy Thanksgiving / Church Closed all day Entire Church EveryoneSat, November 26 Prayer Shawl Ministry 1:00p Mid High Room KnittersSun, November 27 Advent Wreath Building @ Mabel Swan 11:00a Mabel Swan EveryoneSun, November 27 Deacon’s Meeting 3:30p Lounge DeaconsSun, November 27 Cristo Vive Small Group Focus Meeting 2:00p Parlor
Fri, December 2 MOPS Christmas Tea 9:30a Garden Room MomsDecember 2,3,4 Ghormley Mountain Meadow Christmas All Weekend GhormleyTue, December 6 Worship Ministry Team 5:15p Rhino RoomTue, December 6 Adult Education Ministry Team 7:00p Adult EdWed, December 7 Presbyterian Women’s Silver Tea 1:00p Garden Room Women
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Pastor Jack
Pastor Jack PeeblesSenior Pastor
Pastor Jack
Dear Church Family,
Did you know that Jesus talked about money more than any other subject except for the Kingdom of God? Because your participation in our stewardship campaign is so vitally important to the continued ministry of God’s Kingdom and your development as a disciple of Jesus, I am offering the stewardship letter you received in the mail as my letter to the congregation for the month of November:
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:12-13)
I would like to thank you for your continued faithful contribution to the ministry of the church. As I reflect upon the past year, I am amazed at how good God is…all the time! Many initiatives we believed God was leading us toward came to fruition. You might recall that last year God gave us a vision about broadening our Christian education with more intentional and all-encompassing spiritual transformation. We also had a vision of making advances in our missional outreach. God has brought both visions to reality through means we could not have imagined. In 2011, the School of Spiritual Transformation (SOAR) was founded and began with the first class of nearly sixty students. Also, as a member of our church was hired as the Community Director of Madison House, our partnership with our community has been strengthened. We hired both Jason Cavanaugh and Lyndi Suydam as our worship leaders. I hope you have had a chance to meet both of them. They have truly demonstrated their servants’
hearts and are led by God in preparing worship for our church family. They are excellent additions to our staff. Did you know they both volunteered and helped during VBS week?
In the month of November, we continue in our present series on Ephesians while complementing it with our stewardship campaign “Bridges Founded on the Cornerstone: Reaching Across, Reaching Out.” The above passage captures the purpose of the church of Jesus Christ. Paraphrasing verses 12-13, we are to equip people to live for Christ in the world. As we are equipped, we serve as the bridge through which the Good News is shared in our community of Yakima. The bridge is then extended into our homes, schools, and places of employment. The Body of Christ is built up as more and more people begin to use the gifts God has given. We are called to be outwardly focused and this begins with one another as we reach across the pews and out into the community.
As we grow more and more in our love of Jesus, our love of others is the natural response. God calls each of us to participate in His mission to the community and world. We want to provide more opportunities such as SOAR and The Madison House, giving more and more people an opportunity to taste what God’s Kingdom is all about and grow into the fullness of Christ. My experience has been that when people taste it and see that it is good, they want more of it!
On November 20th at all three services, we will lay our commitments at the foot of the cross. In preparation, I ask you to prayerfully consider how you will be the bridge through which the Gospel is shared in 2012.
On behalf of your stewardship team,
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Family Stuff
Pastor Mark TumneyPastor of Family Life and Missions
Shan TrickAssistant FLM Director
Dear Church Family,
A number of people in our congregation have mentioned to me, “Pastor, I’m willing to help, but I don’t really know where the need is.” Or alternatively, “I would consider trying to meet a need in our community if I could get some help.” To connect those who are willing to serve with local needs, we have created what we are calling “Bridges @ FPC.” We’re calling it “Bridges” to express both our going out into the community, and that we are creating avenues that encourage people to connect with our church community. Through Here@First and a monthly email, we will be listing opportunities for service. Alternatively, if you have a project that you’d like to tell others about, please pick up a “Bridges @ FPC Service Request Form” from the office.Please read through the needs listed below and prayerfully consider where God would have you help out. May the Lord use this tool to help us be more faithful to His call to love our neighbors.
In Christ,
Pastor Mark
Thanksgiving for Mabel Swan Nov 16.Did you know that there are residents at Mabel Swan (residence across the
street from the church building) whose only Thanksgiving meal is the one our church serves them? Helpers are needed to organize the meal for this year.
The meal will be served on Wednesday, November 16th at noon. To volunteer email pastor Jim at [email protected]
Read a Story, Hang out with KidsEvery afternoon between 3:30p and 5:00p, Read Me A Story program is available for our younger Madison House youth between the ages of 5 through 9. What it entails is just as the title says: Volunteers read a story to a youth in either pairs or individually. The story
may be a classic, an animal story, a Bible story, or another that the child chooses. The time with the child builds relationship, trust, opportunity to encourage and to listen, and many other topics of conversation that the book may provide such as nutrition and hygiene. Call
Sara Holtzinger at 941-8001 or email: [email protected]
Wed Nite Fun At Madison HouseWe need you at the Madison House Wednesday evenings to 'hang out' with our youth of all ages. Wednesday evening is our activities night. The night includes, a game based computer class, pool, foosball, soccer, football, board games, and
FUN! Our youth need to learn how to build healthy relationships...what a way to start...by just coming and having some FUN and 'hang out'. Interested? Call Sara
Holtzinger at 941-8001 or email: [email protected]
Christianity ExploredThere is a team of people forming to create a gathering where people who are interested can learn about Jesus Christ in a non-threatening way over a meal. Ultimately, people will be needed to pray, prepare meals, and help facilitate discussions about Jesus. Interested in learning more? Email Paster
Mark at [email protected]
Seniors
Jim ErixsonAssociate Pastor x 130
Thanksgiving Dinner on a MissionAgain this year Senior Adult Ministries will be leading First Presbyterian Yakima on a mission to provide a Thanksgiving lunch to the residences of Mabel Swan. On Wednesday, November 16 at noon, we will be providing turkey, sweet and mashed potatoes, warm rolls, Jell-o fruit salad, dressing, gravy and pies. Last year was such a success and so much fun that we had to do it again this year. But we cannot do this by ourselves. We are asking the congregation to pitch in by providing some of the food and/or your helping hands, serving meals and making new friends. We will start our preparation at 11:00a. in the church kitchens and wheel it all over to Mable Swan Manor in time for the great feast. So if you want to meet new friends and if you can help with a pie, or potatoes or any other item, please stop by the Connection Center or the Church Office and sign up.
Happy Travelers are on the moveHappy Travelers are planning for the 2012 travel season. We have planned for trips in the spring and summer months which should be interesting, educational and fun. In the spring we are planning to go to the Raptor House and the Conservancy in Cowiche Canyon, a train ride at Elbe, and then to the May Fest in Leavenworth. We have also looked at going to see the glassblowers in Centralia and a possible trip to Whistling Jacks for a meal. In the summer we are planning an overnight trip to the Goldendale Observatory. Other possible trips are the Aircraft Museum in Seattle and a trip to Roslyn. On December 2, 2011 we are off to see “The Christmas Story” at the Warehouse Theater. Before the theater we will meet at the Powerhouse Grill for dinner at 5:00p. Tickets are $13 dollars for the play. You can sign-up at the Connection Center. On Friday, March 2 we will again go to the Warehouse Theater to see the play “Last Five Years”. Tickets for this play are also $13. Both performances will start at 7:30p. Sign-up at the Connection Center for this play.
Kaffee Klatsch Kaffee Klatsch is a time when we can all get together to have coffee, eat a fresh donut or bagel and converse with each other. We also sing a few oldies but goodies and listen to a featured presentation. This month Dr. Jon Waite will be performing on the organ in the sanctuary and he will be giving us a short lecture on the organ and his music. Be prompt, because the donuts and bagels go fast. Come and enjoy a morning of good fun and “culture”. The Klatsch starts at 9:30a sharp and you’ll be out in time for lunch. In December we will be privileged to have with us two choirs from Davis High School. There are about 100 voices to provide us some great sounds. Watch for the date. Date is pending due to space in our building. So, please watch for it to be announced.
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Carolyn Mason
The holiday season is approaching. Christmas displays have appeared with twinkly lights and animated decorations catch our attention. Music that we haven’t heard since last season fills the air as we do our grocery shopping and we find ourselves humming along with it. Though Thanksgiving trappings are far less predominant in the shops, we’ll occasionally see a turkey platter, some harvest-themed tea towels, or a fruit-filled cornucopia beckoning us. Our history books still tell us that the first Thanksgiving was a celebration of gratitude for a bountiful harvest, but that particular message seems to have slid into the background. In recent years, we’ve allowed Thanksgiving to become mostly associated with indulgent eating, football games, and a grand kick off for Christmas sales. There are at least two major ideas from that first Thanksgiving that are worthy of more consideration. First is the spirit of being thankful for an abundant harvest. Even though the bounty from our own crops varies from year to year, the Yakima Valley produces enormous amounts of food. The fantastic variety of produce we have is also cause for gratitude. Though this seasonal celebration primarily centers around food, Paul’s message in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 broadens the charge. “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Therefore, we are reminded to give thanks in ALL aspects of our lives. A second idea that is important to remember from the first Thanksgiving is an appreciation of how members of two very diverse cultures-- the
Veteran’s Day Celebration!Memorabilia Display in the Garden Room.
Veteran’s bring your displays onSunday morning, November 6.
Veteran’s Dinner November 12 in Koehler Hall at 6p. Featured speaker is History Buff and Teacher Brian Dibble whose topic is “Bridging the 70 Year Gap from 1941 to the Present”. Brian will also be displaying his restored WWII Jeep
both on Sunday the 6th and Saturday the 12th. Dinner catered by Tony Crawford for $13. Ask for details at the Connection Center. Deadline Wednesday November 9.
Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe---worked together to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. In keeping with Pastor Jack’s recent sermon about ‘us’ and ‘them’, we see the Thanksgiving celebration as a strong example of two groups setting aside differences and sharing their meals together. (Wouldn’t it have been fun to watch all those women cooking that feast! Just imagine those conversations! “Hmmm, Prudence, I think this eel could use a bit more salt.”) As we look forward to our holiday celebrations it might be wise to remember the spirit in which the first Thanksgiving occurred. Those of ‘us’ who have experienced His grace and love can look for opportunities to share the gratitude we feel with ‘them’ who have yet to feel that joy. Even though there may not be many Thanksgiving decorations displayed, Christians know why we can celebrate and give thanks every day. As we brush our teeth and comb our hair, we’ll see an Ambassador for Christ looking back at us. In the spirit of the first Thanksgiving, and even more importantly, as His representative, each of us has the privilege to reach out to others and share our gratitude for what He has done for us. Happy Thanksgiving!
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Susie WoodinChildrens Ministries
Children
HEY KIDS…We are off to a great start in KidZone…but we can’t run the race without you!
KidZone is off and running, and we are at a fast pace for lots of high energy fun! Don’t forget that we start at 9:30 on Sunday mornings with Sonbeams and Cubbies age kids (2 ½ - Pre K) going directly to their classrooms before worship begins. K-5th grade kids attend 9:30 worship with their parents, and will be excused to their KidZone leaders and escorted to class after the Children’s Message. Parents will then pick children up from class at 10:45.
Plans are in full sprint for another great year, and we are already in training for this year’s Christmas celebrations. Don’t miss out on your chance to cross the finish line with us. We need you in KidZone so we can start learning music, and working on our great Christmas mission projects.Any kids who are interested in speaking parts in any of the programs please contact the children’s department.
• Christmas Music rehearsal is already under way• Operation Christmas Child – In full swing
- completed boxes due Nov. 13 • Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Assembly
– Nov. 6 in the Gym• Salvation Army Angel Tree
– Bring gifts for the Angel Tree Nov. 13- Dec. 11• Advent Wreaths for Mabel Swan - Nov. 27• Mountain Meadow Christmas – Camp Ghormley Dec. 2, 3, & 4• KidZone rehearsal for Dec. 11 music
– Dec. 10 @ 10:00 in the Sanctuary• KidZone kids lead in worship on Dec. 11
- 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 services• Child-Sized Service on Dec. 24 – more information coming
Look for more information on all these special events in the KidZone ParentLink Newsletter, Here@FirstNewsletter, KidZone fliers , our website www.fpcyakima.com or visit us at 9 S. 8TH AVE. YAKIMA. We look forward to seeing or hearing from you!
Welcome to the 11:00 FUSE Children’s Program!
We have had a great time the past few weeks with the kids, and are looking forward to more fun as parents are attending this session’s classes. We are starting a new video series titled “What’s in the Bible?” This is a fun series from VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer and a boatload of new friends who are on a groundbreaking journey through the world’s most amazing book, the Bible! We will be starting with the video “In the Beginning” Lesson 1: What’s in the Bible?Lesson 2: Who Wrote the Bible?Lesson 3: Genesis & Primeval HistoryLesson 4: Sin
Please come and help!We are having fun at 11:00, but we need extra help with the kids. If you would be willing to join us for just one hour on a Sunday morning, please call and let me know…that’s a big help. You will love getting to know the kids! We meet in room 217 on Sunday mornings from 11:00 – noon while parents are in their parenting class. Call Susie @ 248-7940
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The Salvation Army Angel Tree 2011 Nov. 13 - Dec. 11Join us once again as we partner with the Salvation Army in this wonderful project. First Presbyterian Church has blessed an average of 200 children each year for the past 20 years! Please help make Christmas special for a child in the Yakima Valley. It’s easy…all you need to do is:• Choose an angel tag from the Angel Tree in the Garden Room.• Purchase a NEW gift for the child named on the tag.• Attach the angel tag with child’s name on it to your UNWRAPPED gift.• Bring your gift back to the Angel Tree at First Presbyterian Church by
December 11, OR drop it off at the Salvation Army after that date.They will then distribute the gifts on Dec. 18.Don’t miss this opportunity to be an angel in the life of a child!
IT’S THE HOLIDAY SEASON… KIDZONE KIDS WELCOME THE NEWBORN KING!Long before the trees are up and the presents are wrapped…the Children’s Ministry Department is busy working on Christmas. It’s our favorite time of year…celebrating the birth of Jesus! God sent His one and only Son to earth in the form of a precious baby and we have the privilege of sharing that miraculous story with kids each week!
WILL THERE BE ACHILD-SIZED CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE ?
This year we are looking at the possibility of presenting thechild-sized service onChristmas Eve @ 5:00…BUT in order to do that we need families who will be home during the holidays and willing to participate and help with the service. If you and your children would like to be part of this special service, please contact Susie at the church! We can only provide this service with your involvement.
2nd Grade Children with
their new Bibles
As we anxiously prepare for all the special celebrations of the holidays, we are working on music in KidZone in preparation for leading worship on Dec. 11 during all 3 services. We are all so excited to present the congregation with this wonderful gift.
Parents please plan for your child(ren) to attend a special rehearsal on Dec. 10 @ 10:00 in the Sanctuary for all KidZone kids… THEN…on Dec. 11, Sonbeams and Cubbies will sing at the 9:30 and 11:00 services, and K-5th Graders will sing at the 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 services. Look for more information to be sent home with the kids through KidZone.
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Preschool
Rhonda CardonaPreschool Director x 119
Pocket Calendars $6.00 each
Thank You for supporting the preschool program here at First Presbtyerian Church of Yakima.
The money that is raised with this calendar sale will go directly into the classroom to help defray operating costs. The tuition that is paid does not cover all of our expenses.
By having this fundraiser, we are able to keep tuition costs down.
2012 Pocket CalendarGreeting Card SetChristmas Card Set
All Card Sets$6.00 each
About Our Pocket Calendar:• Available with Scriptures in KJV only• Beautiful professional photographs• Highest quality materials and presentation• 12-month calendar in a transparent cover• 3”x6” overall size• Removable 50-page notepad• 2011,2012 and 2013 At-A-Glance calendars• Pages for important addresses, phone
numbers, birthdays and anniversaries
FPC PRESCHOOL CALENDAR FUNDRAISER IS BAAAAACK!!!
Preschool Trip to the Pumpkin Patch
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Women
Ericka ClarkWomen’s Ministries x 100
WOW Women of WonderWomen’s Ministry of First Presbyterian Church
Growing women up to be intentional about their faith.
Last year on vacation, I plugged in to my iPod and went straight to my Worship playlist. I cranked up the volume and started dancing. I was singing (at what I
thought was at the volume of a whisper,) and I had my eyes closed. My family was a couple rooms away watching tv. I was having a great time worshipping my God. During this praisefest, my hubby came back to see what was going on. If you have ever sat near me at church, you know I may be a bit tone deaf. Scott and the boys got a good laugh at my “show.” I kept going - it was too much fun!
How do you show your thanks to God? Take a moment and reflect on ways He has been your shield or given you an abundance of strength this fall. In what ways
have you trusted him? Perhaps with finances, your marriage, a situation with your children? Once you gather those memories, praise and thank God for his presence during those times. Shout out your praises to him. Turn up some praise music and go for it. Watch out, you might just break out into a song and dance of thanks!
The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recog-nize a stranger’s voice. John 10:3-5
We have been offering a Listening Prayer class during our Weds@First
program this fall. In this class, we are expe-riencing a more intimate relationship with our Creator, learning to hear His voice. God is always speaking to us. Just ponder this...God created us (YOU and ME!) for relationship. We are designed to recognize His voice.
The following is a handy resource in helping to recognize God’s voice in our
life.
To test impressions from God, ask:1. Do they line up with what the Bible states?
2. Do they match the overall teaching of God’s Word on that subject?
3. Are they in harmony with the charac-ter of God and the ways of God from the Word of God?
From Forever Ruined for the Ordinary by Joy Dawson
Presbyterian Women’s Silver TeaWednesday, December 7 at 1:00p in the Garden Room.An afternoon of laughter, music, and food as we celebrate the birth of our Savior and King! Please come.
Craft Night Hosted by Cristo Vive Friday, November 11 at 6:30p in the Lounge
Thanksgiving Dinner and Worship:Wednesday, November 16. Dinner at 5:30p in the Gym. Worship at 6:30p in the Sanctuary.
Operation Christmas Child (Shoeboxes!)A great project to do as a family! See more information on page 14.
Give Thanks, and Maybe a Song, too!Psalm 28:7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart exults, And with my song I shall thank Him.
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Students
Jeff MurrayStudent Ministries x 106
Courtney HuchinsStudent Ministries x 116
I’ve recently spent a lot of time studying the call of Samuel (1 Sam. 3). It has been a process of discovery with many implications for youth ministry. In the story, Samuel is awakened by the voice of Yahweh (Samuel, Samuel!) and he in turn goes to awaken his mentor Eli (mistaking the Lord’s voice for Eli’s). Eli is understandably confused and even annoyed. After a few repetitions, Eli figures out that Samuel is hearing the voice of Yahweh. He then teaches the young man to respond to the call of Yahweh with the phrase, “Speak Yahweh, for your servant is listening”. Eli takes this opportunity to teach the next generation how to listen for and obey the voice of Yahweh. This responsibility is the same for all parents, youth ministers and volunteers. As members of the body of Christ, we have a mutual responsibility to raise up the next generation of students to
Peace in Jesus
Jeff Murray
Students can register online at www.ghormleymeadow.org
WHO: Students in Grades 6-9 from all over Washington!WHEN: Friday, Nov 11 @ 7p to Sunday, Nov 13 @ 12pWHERE: Ghormley!! Off Hwy. 12, we are 18 miles East of White Pass.
SLAMQUEST
love and follow Jesus. Eli has his own sons to worry about (who later become a great disappointment to him) and yet he still takes the time to mentor a student who is not his own child. The responsibility is the same for us. We have many students, like Samuel, whose own parents are not able to teach him about Yahweh. Like Eli, all of us must put in the extra time to equip the next generation to follow Christ and serve his kingdom. I would like to invite all of you to meditate on this passage (1 Samuel 3) and think about your role in the lives of our students. The main thing that messed up Israel time and time again was their failure to corporately raise the next generation to serve God. Let’s not make the mistake that Eli made with his biological children but instead let’s learn from his example with Samuel. Please consider helping out on Wednesday nights, Sunday mornings or becoming a Lifeguard. Contact me for more information.
DON’T BRING: Weapons, Drugs, Snacks, Food or ANY ELECTRONIC DEVICE! THEY WILL BE TAKEN FOR THE WEEKEND!
BRING: Bible, Pen, Sleeping Bag, Pillow, Towel, Soap, Deodorant, Toothbrush, Medications, Money for Sundeck and Paintball, Flashlight and Warm Clothes! Plan to be outside! There is always the chance of SNOW this time of year!
COST: $75.00. If money is a concern, please check with your church youth leader about a scholarship. Ghormley will not be giving individual scholarships to this event.
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Devotional
Janet Krieger
Janet Krieger
As Jesus continued on toward Jerusalem, He reached the border between Galilee and Samaria. As He entered a village there, ten lepers stood at a distance, crying out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” He looked at them and said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, their leprosy disappeared. One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God, I’m healed!” He fell face down on the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking Him for what He had done. This man was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Does only this foreigner return to give glory to God?” And Jesus said to the man, “Stand up and go. Your faith has made you well.” Luke 17:11-19With the questions Jesus asks in this Scripture it is clear He expects us to show gratitude; our Lord is clearly disappointed and perhaps even angry at the unthankfulness of the nine lepers who did not return. What could they have been thinking? Why did the nine not return to give glory and honor to Jesus?Perhaps fear prevented them from believing the reality of their healing. Perhaps the enemy whispered in their ear “Caution! You can’t believe you are truly healed. You had better wait and see what tomorrow brings!” Maybe the nine lepers thought their healing was coincidental; satan may have planted the idea of luck and fate in their minds. After all Jesus did not even come near enough to touch them; they must have been getting better and it was simply coincidence that Jesus spoke to them. Or perhaps they were busy patting themselves on the back for deciding to call out to Jesus. Satan may have whispered in their ear how very wise they had been to give Jesus a chance. It was all about them; how thankful they may have been for their own insightfulness!The question is, are we any different from those nine lepers? How often do we fail to recognize and thank God for His blessings? How often do we receive and not believe it is from our King? How many times
have we remarked on our own “good luck?” How many times have we congratulated ourselves or received congratulations for the position, money, or good things in our life that we have “earned?” How many times do we allow the enemy to distort our ability to live with thankfulness and anticipation of all God has intended for us? We must discipline ourselves to
live thankful lives, offering a continual praise of thanksgiving, to be filled and overflowing with thanksliving. Lifting glory and honor to God allows us to live confidently, recognizing that He has provided all we have and will continue to do so. We are to acknowledge the many gifts and blessings we have been given and regularly remember how faithful God has been throughout our lives. Our thanksliving becomes a powerful tool in spiritual warfare as it closes the door to the enemy.Lord, we close all doors that give access to the enemy. We close the doors of fear, unbelief and self righteousness. We close them by repenting of ideas and thoughts the enemy offers. We keep the doors closed by confessing Your words over our life. Holy Spirit, remind us to be thankful about everything. Remind us to speak words of thanksgiving that are positive and full of life.No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Philippians 4:6
And whatever you do or say let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, all the while giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17
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Announcements
MOPS Christmas TeaFriday, December 2, in the
Garden Room 9a-11a.Free, for anyone who is a mother of a
preschool age child(ren). Come enjoy our Mystery Speaker/Musician and catering
by Margo Rogers.
Nov 6
Nov 6
Presbyterian Women Silver TeaThe annual Christmas Silver Tea will be held in the
Garden Room on Wednesday, December 7 at 1p (no cost). Music will be provided by “Take Note” singing group led
by Jean McKitrick. A Christmas story will be read by Lyndi Suydam. A Thanks offering will be received. Cookies will
be for sale by the Deborah, Edith and Naomi Circles.Don’t miss this fun traditional event. Bring friends and
enjoy the holiday spirit around the Christmas tree.
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Cristo Vive
Gustavo CarvajalPastor de Cristo Vive x 133
Mark your calendar on December 11 @ 5:30p for the first Cristo Vive No Cost Fund Raiser Dinner and Celebration. Get your appetite ready for yummy Mexican food. We will celebrate 11 years of ministry in our community!This is your chance to experience what is happening in our ministry in a Mexican Posada Christmas style. Get on board by signing up at the Connection Center.We also need people to be Table Hosts (help sign up 7 people to come and sit at their table). Sign up today, we’re counting on you!
Ghormley
Mark WashamDirector-Ghormley [email protected]
509-672-4311
What: Sledding, Caroling, Gingerbread
house making, sleigh rides (assuming
snow), Trek for your own tree in the
woods, Christmas movie, Christmas
lights, snow sculpting, Christmas
storytelling, cookie decorating and
more.
Library
I give the Lord thanks for a new roof on our home that does not leak, for family, for books. But I
especially thank Him for His constant presence with me. Joshua 1:9 has been a promise of His I have stood on
throughout my life. Previously I shared here some books that are special to me, like the Mitford series by Jan
Karon which showed me how real people can live their faith in God in their everyday lives. I also recommend
Debbie Macomber's non-fiction book One Simple Gift. Now I invite you to share with me. What authors or titles
have been special to you? What books have you heard are good and hope to read? What books have you
shared with friends that you would recommend to your church family? You may leave me a note in the church
library box in the office, or email me at [email protected]. Or drop into the church library between the 9:30
and 11 o'clock services and we will talk books. I am there most Sundays.
Happy Thanksgiving
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." Psalm 107:1
Rondi Downs
Who: Open to anyone, event specifically geared towards families.Cost: Depends on length
of stay, activities chosen.
For more information:Visit website or call 509-672-4311
How to register:
Visit www.ghormleymeadow.org
and register online.15
NONPROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE
PAIDYAKIMA, WA
PERMIT NO 59
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH9 SOUTH 8TH AVEYAKIMA, WA 98902
Stewardship SundayNovember 20
As you come to him, the living Stone--
rejected by men but chosen by God and
precious to him-- you also, like living
stones, are being built into a spiritual house
to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual
sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus
Christ. For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay
a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious
cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him
will never be put to shame." 1 Peter 2:4-6