April 2005 Archives

10:00 A.M. MORNING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Lead Worshipers: Bryan De Groot & the Praise Team
Giving of our Firstfruits: Long-Term Missions (Next Week: General Fund)
Scripture Reading: Luke 5:1-11 (Reader: Gina Ohden)
Message Series: Ordinary People, Extraordinary God
Today’s Message: Peter – Just Another Brick (Pastor Jeff)
Blessing and Sending

6:00 P.M. EVENING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Offering: United Campus Ministries
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 3
Message: As Long As It Is TODAY! (Pastor Steve)

WORSHIP NOTES

Welcome to this place of worship. We have gathered together as God’s people to celebrate and testify to what he has done for us and in us. We invite you to join us in giving praise, honor, and glory to God in the name of Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. May you be blessed, healed, and satisfied by the glorious presence of Jesus Christ, our Savior, Lord, and King.

Today, we conclude our sermon series, “Ordinary People, Extraordinary God.” Some of the most radically transformed people in all of Scripture are the Apostles. One of these ordinary men who saw God do extraordinary things in and through him was the Apostle Peter. This morning we hear the story of Peter’s life through the eyes of Peter sharing his story as he awaits the last few hours of his life before being crucified upside down. We are invited to join with him in recalling how this ordinary fisherman was used by an extraordinary God to do extraordinary things.

Global Prayer for a Greater Pentecost

This morning, each household received a 10-Day prayer guide that we will use together as a community between Ascension Day and Pentecost. Please begin using this prayer guide this Friday, May 6. The prayer guide offers suggestions for what to pray for as we approach Pentecost. This is a global call to prayer springing from Africa where 22 million people joined together last year to seek an outpouring of God’s Spirit. Our prayer time will culminate on Pentecost Sunday, May 15 as we gather together for worship in the morning and a time of prayer in the evening, linking up with others around the world as we seek the face of God.

Communion

Over the last year the Council has prayerfully considered increasing the frequency of communion to match its importance. We have decided that starting in May, communion will be celebrated every month ordinarily on the 2nd Sunday of the month, with some variation around the sacred holidays. Therefore, NEXT SUNDAY we will be celebrating communion and invite everyone to come and celebrate the grace of Jesus Christ together!

THIS WEEK AT UNITY

Tuesday: 4:00pm Worship Planning Team Meeting
Wednesday: 12 noon Bulletin Announcements due!
Wednesday: 7:00pm Youth Group 7th - 12th meet at Church
Thursday: ASCENSION DAY!!

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT UNITY

Care Group Monthly Potlucks

Want to get to know others in our church? Here's a great opportunity! Each month, a specific Unity Care Group (there are six) will have a potluck at church after the morning service. This potluck will be open to guests at Unity that morning to join with them. It's a great way to renew relationships of those in our church plus open the door for new connections. The POTLUCK is TODAY for Care Group #3. A listing of the groups is in your Unity Handbook, available from the church office, or posted on the bulletin board as you come into church.

Profession of Faith

If you are interested in making Profession of Faith within the next couple of months please contact one of the pastors soon. We hope to meet with those interested and the Council on Wednesday evening, May 11th.

Advanced Notice: The 2005 Women of Faith Conference

In St. Paul will be held October 21-22. Take some time to get away with friends or invite family to join you for this incredible time of refreshment. Twenty-five (25) tickets are available through Angela Zwart on a first-come basis.

Unity Childcare Bake Sale

Unity Childcare will be having a bake sale on Saturday, May 14, at Lisa Jarveis’ home. If you would like to donate any baked goods please drop them off at Unity Childcare on Friday, May 13. Proceeds from the bake sale will go towards purchasing new toys, games, and craft supplies.

Junior High Youth Group

Junior high kids make sure that you get in your camp forms ASAP. Lodging & Camp assignments are first come, first serve.

UNITY FAMILY CARES AND CONCERNS

Congratulations to Dave & Laura Brouwer on the birth of a beautiful and healthy baby boy, Camden Jay. He was born Thursday evening, weighing 7 lbs and 8 oz, and is 19 inches long.

We express our love and prayers to Trapper and April Swierenga and Brandon & Heidi Meyer and families in the loss of their grandfather Harry Meyer Jr. this past week.

We also express our love and prayers to Doug & Becky Zondervan and Steve & Terri Zondervan and families in the loss of their father, Uncle and grandfather, Henry Zondervan this past week.

Bridal Shower: You are cordially invited to an Open House Bridal Shower in honor of LaDonna Sandstede bride elect of Nick Freiborg. The shower will take place at Unity CRC

COMMUNITY & SURROUNDING AREA ANNOUNCEMENTS

Bridal Shower: You are invited to an Open House Bridal Shower for Emily Swart, bride elect of Zach Gerdes, on Saturday, May 7 at 2:00pm at the First CRC Fellowship Hall.

ON CALL Presents ROCK WORSHIP WORKSHOP FOR KIDS, grades 1 - 6. Sunday, May 22, 1:00pm ~ 7:00pm. A day of rocking and rehearsing with the On Call band. Concert at 7:00pm. Get a t-shirt, snacks, and dinner! It will be held at the First Covenant Church in Willmar. This is a fundraiser for On Call’s Guatemala Mission trip this summer. Cost of the workshop is $25.00. For reservations or more information, contact the Youth For Christ Office at 320-235-0119.

ON CALL Auditions If you want to sing or play in a band - if you will be a sophomore, junior, or senior - if you want to be used by Christ - join ON CALL. Auditions are May 23 - 27th. Call the YFC office for more information and an appointment (320-235-0119).

Dordt College’s 50th Anniversary

A 50th Anniversary Celebration will be held on the campus of Dordt College in Sioux Center on July 1-3. Everyone is invited to attend events throughout the weekend, including music and theater performances, youth and alumni intramural sports, socials, food, art, a parade, fireworks and more. Most events are free, but some require pre-registration or minimal fees. For additional details or to register, call for a brochure at 1-800-343-6738 (extension #3) or visit www.dordt.edu/events/jubilee/

Vacation Bible School

Let’s go on a Safari Adventure, June 6-10 at First CRC in Prinsburg, as in the past it will be held in the evening. Children are invited to attend Vacation Bible School. Your prayers are appreciated, ask God to bring children to hear about Jesus, our King and Savior. Ask God to provide willing helpers, eager to share His love in Jesus.

Attention Potential VBS teachers

Please if you would be willing to help teach VBS call Nora Ziehl. We need at least 6 more teachers. We will not be able to have VBS if people don’t sign up. Materials need to be ordered and plans made. We have coordinators (Becky Hines and Erica Slagter) and helpers but not enough teachers. We need the kids to sign up in May and would really like to have teachers in place. So please consider helping for one week, June 6-10.

Lake Geneva Christian Reformed Family Conference

Mark your calendars now and PLAN TO ATTEND the Lake Geneva Christian Reformed Family Conference to be held at Alexandria, Minnesota on August 8 - 11, 2005. Join with us as we celebrate our twenty–second year of conferences. Dr. Carl Bremer from Primary Focus and Evangelist Verlyn Schaap from Sargeant Bluff, IA will be the Keynote speakers. A concert is scheduled for Wednesday evening. There are scheduled activities for children, preschool through high school age. Watch for registration announcement in your bulletin at a later date. Bring your family - invite your friends - plan to be challenged and inspired.

Ten Days of Prayer for a Greater Pentecost - May 6 - May 15, 2005

The Call from Africa

Brothers and sisters in Christ,

Over the past four years we’ve seen an increase of united prayer for renewal and revival throughout the world and particularly in Africa. Over 22 million people prayed together in 2004 across the continent of Africa. Christians of Africa are inviting the world to join them for the first ever Global Day of Prayer for Christ’s glory and the transformation of the nations.

On Pentecost Sunday, from when the sun rises in the east,
across the different time zones, until when it sets, 18 hours
later in the west, we are expecting more than 200 million
Christians across the world to join in this Global Day of
Prayer. Please call your churches and families to join with us
to fill our world with prayer for our Lord’s glory.

Graham Power, Transformation Africa
Bob Bakke, Global Day of Prayer
John Robb, International Prayer Council

Unity Church will participate in the Global Day of Prayer and Ten Days of Prayer for a Greater Pentecost

This Sunday, May 1, every household will receive the 10-Day Prayer Guide (also available here).

For more information visit Global Day of Prayer USA or waymakers.org.

10:00 A.M. MORNING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Lead Worshipers: Bethel College Praise Team
Testimony: Gideons
Giving of our Firstfruits: CMCS (Next Week: Long-Term Missions)
Scripture Reading: Esther 7: 1–8: 2(Reader: Dan Ohden)
Message Series: Ordinary People, Extraordinary God
Today’s Message: Esther – For Such a Time as This (Pastor Steve)
Blessing and Sending

6:00 P.M. EVENING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Offering: Crossroads
Scripture Reading: Mark 1: 21-28, Psalm 111
Message: The Power of His Works (Pastor Wendy)

WORSHIP NOTES

Welcome to Unity! May the Lord be with you today and bring blessing to your home! May you discover the joy of our Risen and Ascended Lord, Jesus Christ!

This morning we continue our series of messages on some of the ordinary people of Scripture whom God revealed His extraordinary power through. Today we consider Esther, a women with very little reputation, an outsider in a foreign land, one who possessed great beauty. God needed someone to secure deliverance for His people from those who plotted to destroy them. It was God’s extraordinary power in the life of Esther, by way of His favor and timing, that allowed ordinary Esther to be extraordinary. She humbled herself to be used by God for such a time as this.

This morning we extend a special welcome to the Bethel College Praise Team from the St. Paul area! Thank you so much for taking the time today to minister in music and lead us in worship!

Recently, at the beginning of a phone call with someone I had not talked to in a while, I was confronted with a rather unusual greeting: “Wendy! What has God been doing in your life?” If someone asked you this question, would you have an answer ready? Or, like me, would it take you a moment to respond? Our texts this evening challenge us to praise God for the power of his works. This praise involves three moves on our part: remembering, teaching and testifying. Come tonight and we’ll reflect together on the importance of telling God’s story as it plays out in our lives—both for our sakes and for His glory.

NIGHT VISION will be tonight at 8:30pm! Come young, young-at-heart, and well-seasoned to worship and pray together for God’s power and grace to be revealed and revival to come to the church and this land! We would love to see you there tonight!

CONGRATULATIONS to Pastor Jeff as he put the final touches on his thesis this weekend and has completed the written work associated with his thesis! The 160+ page document has been submitted to Calvin Seminary and he, along with Wendy, will be traveling to Grand Rapids, MI., in May to defend his thesis before the faculty review board. Lord willing, with an affirmative defense, he will graduate (again) from Calvin Seminary on Saturday, May 21, 2005. Celebrate with them this week in accomplishing this work!

THIS WEEK AT UNITY

Tuesday: 4:00pm Worship Planning Team Meeting
Wednesday: 4:30pm—7:00pm Mexican Fiesta
Friday: 7:00pm Unity Game night

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT UNITY

Congratulations to the 11 households that graduated from the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University class this past week! Again, this has been a successful time of learning financial principles for daily life. This now brings our total to 66 households completing this course! Over $250,000 has been paid off in debt and over $150,000 has been saved by the 66 participants in the class during the 13 weeks of the course. Many have become or are close to being even debt free!! Lord willing, we will be offering the course again this fall! Tell your friends about it today!

The Council enjoyed a great retreat last weekend! Many thanks to Norm and Val Duininck for the use of their home at Green Lake! We are excited that God has led us to this point as we spent time reflecting on the defining moments in the life of this ministry! We expect many more in the near future! Thank you for your prayers and support! The Unity CRC Leadership

Graduate Information

Parents or students, we would like you submit a short article about the graduating students for the Unity Update and for the churches records. Please include information such as, student’s name, graduation date, activities involved in, plans for after graduation, degree earned, and open house information. If there is anything else you would like to include please do so. Please have them to the office by Sunday April 24.

Please Pray with us

Next week Sunday, May 1, the missions team will meet in Pastor Jeff’s office at 9:00am to pray for our missionaries. Many new and important prayer items have come to our attention lately—our missionaries need our prayers! Anyone is welcome to join us as we pray for those we support financially, for our church community, for our country, and its leaders.

St. Cloud Prison Chapel Opportunities

Are you looking for a chance to worship God with other believers in a very unique setting? A team of people from Unity worships at the St. Cloud Correctional Facility four times each year. Training sessions in St. Cloud are available for people who would like to join this team. Upcoming spring training sessions are Monday, May 9, 6pm - 9pm, Saturday, May 21, 9am - 12noon and Tuesday, June 7, 6pm - 9pm. Call Sarah Brouwer for more information.

St. Cloud Prison

If you are part of the St. Cloud Prison Chapel team, and you would like to go to St. Cloud on May 15, please call Sarah Brouwer. (Note: This is NOT Mothers Day!)

Care Group Monthly Potlucks

Want to get to know others in our church? Here's a great opportunity! Each month, a specific Unity Care Group (there are six) will have a potluck at church after the morning service. This potluck will be open to guests at Unity that morning to join with them. It's a great way to renew relationships of those in our church plus open the door for new connections. The POTLUCK is on May 1 for Care Group # 3. A listing of the groups is in your Unity Handbook, available from the church office, or posted on the bulletin board as you come into church. You will also receive a postcard in the mail with specific instructions for your potluck. RSVP to Linda Brouwer.

Profession of Faith

If you are interested in making Profession of Faith within the next couple of months please contact one of the pastors soon. We hope to meet with those interested and the Council on Wednesday evening, May 11th.

Margin Video Series

Crunched for time? Join us for an adult education class that will help restore some margin to your life! The class meets at 9:00am Sunday mornings and will continue for the next week. You can join at anytime. Each session is very beneficial.

Mexican Fiesta

Unity Youth Group is inviting everyone to their Mexican Fiesta on April 27th. Serving will be from 4:30 - 7:00 pm. Take out is available. Free-will offering will go towards our mission trip.

GEMS and Moms

Reminder to mark your calendar to attend the end-of-the year mother daughter banquet on Wednesday, April 27 at 6:30pm at the First CRC basement.

Unity Game Night

Laughter, food, & good company! Who can resist? Come to Unity on Friday, April 29, at 7:00p.m. There will be board games for all ages, and a Bonko tournament, but you're welcome to take along your games. Bring a snack & 2 liter bottle of pop to share. It'll be a great night!

Advanced Notice

The 2005 Women of Faith Conference in St. Paul will be held October 21-22. Take some time to get away with friends or invite family to join you for this incredible time of refreshment. Twenty-five (25) tickets are available through Angela Zwart on a first-come basis.

Unity Childcare Bake Sale

Unity Childcare will be having a bake sale on Saturday, May 14, at Lisa Jarveis’ home. If you would like to donate any baked goods please drop them off at Unity Childcare on Friday, May 13. Proceeds from the bake sale will go towards purchasing new toys, games, and craft supplies.

Help

The Junior/Senior Prom committee at CMCS is looking for "no-longer-in-use" LP records (remember, those large black things that had recorded music on them!). If you have some they can use for decorations, please contact Tenae Zondervan or the school.

COMMUNITY & SURROUNDING AREA ANNOUNCEMENTS

CMCS Parent’s Club Meeting

The CMCS Parent's Club will hold its final meeting for the school year 2004-2005 on Monday, April 25. We will meet at 7:30 in the High School Music Room. We will hear a few musical numbers from our students. We will then proceed to the business meeting. We will be electing new officers, and voting on a couple of items to purchase. We will also take a few moments to recognize a couple of the CMCS staff that are not returning next fall. There will be discussion on fund raising activities for the next school year. We encourage ALL parents to attend this important meeting.

Senior Citizens

Our April meeting will be a pot-luck dinner at the community center. We will meet for an 11:30 SHARP noon meal lunch on Thursday, April 28. We will be entertained by some small choral groups from CMCS. A report on the Senior Housing Project will be given. A - L bring a casserole, M - R bring a salad, S - Z bring a dessert

Women’s Retreat

"Fresh as a Daisy"" have you registered yet for the retreat? If not please do so by calling Gerri Ledeboer 978-8652 by Wednesday. Please join us for a day to freshen up your mind, home and soul. P.S. If you wake up Saturday and decide you are able to come but haven’t registered - come anyway. We would love to see you there.

Dordt College’s 50th Anniversary

A 50th Anniversary Celebration will be held on the campus of Dordt College in Sioux Center on July 1-3. Everyone is invited to attend events throughout the weekend, including music and theater performances, youth and alumni intramural sports, socials, food, art, a parade, fireworks and more. Most events are free, but some require pre-registration or minimal fees. For additional details or to register, call for a brochure at 1-800-343-6738 (extension #3) or visit www.dordt.edu/events/jubilee/

Vacation Bible School

Let’s go on a Safari Adventure, June 6-10 at First CRC in Prinsburg, as in the past it will be held in the evening. Children are invited to attend Vacation Bible School. Your prayers are appreciated, ask God to bring children to hear about Jesus, our King and Savior. Ask God to provide willing helpers, eager to share His love in Jesus.

Attention Potential VBS teachers

Please if you would be willing to help teach VBS call Nora Ziehl. We need at least 6 more teachers. We will not be able to have VBS if people don’t sign up. Materials need to be ordered and plans made. We have coordinators (Becky Hines and Erica Slagter) and helpers but not enough teachers. We need the kids to sign up in May and would really like to have teachers in place. So please consider helping for one week, June 6-10 , in the evening.

Lake Geneva Christian Reformed Family Conference

Mark your calendars now and PLAN TO ATTEND the Lake Geneva Christian Reformed Family Conference to be held at Alexandria, Minnesota on August 8 - 11, 2005. Join with us as we celebrate our twenty –second year of conferences. Dr. Carl Bremer from Primary Focus and Evangelist Verlyn Schaap from Sargeant Bluff, IA will be the Keynote speakers. A concert is scheduled for Wednesday evening. There are scheduled activities for children, preschool through high school age. Watch for registration announcement in your bulletin at a later date. Bring your family - invite your friends - plan to be challenged and inspired.

From Clara City Care Center Auxiliary

The Auxiliary is taking orders for their history books that were compiled and contain pictures and history of all the residents that have been at the Care Center from 1966-2005. The book has over 700 pages. Orders may be placed with Cindy Mithun or Sharon Blom. The cost is $30.

Easter Combined Worship Offering

The offering at the combined service at Prinsburg on Easter evening was $725.35. It was divided between New Life Treatment Center and The Bible League Ukraine. Thank you for your generosity

10:00 A.M. MORNING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Lead Worshipers: Gar Jasper
Word of Testimony: Rev. Peterson Sozi, Kampala, Uganda
Giving of our Firstfruits: Building Fund (Next Week: CMCS)
Scripture Reading: I Kings 17 (Reader: Rita Ninneman)
Scripture Text: Hebrews 11:32-40
Message Series: Ordinary People, Extraordinary God
Today’s Message: Elijah: Living Outside the Box (Pastor Steve)
Blessing and Sending

6:00 P.M. EVENING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

KNIGHTSOUNDS IN CONCERT AT UNTIY

WORSHIP NOTES

Welcome to Unity! Let the Spirit of the Sovereign God rest on you today as you enter the presence of the Lord with worship and gladness!

This morning we continue our series of messages under the theme: Ordinary People, Extraordinary God. Today we look at the life of Elijah. Simply put, Elijah didn't fit. He lived outside the box of normal life of his day. Yet, his "unfit" life fit perfectly for the work of God in the land of Israel. Come on a journey this morning to the land where "unfit" becomes "fit" for God.

This morning we also extend a very special welcome to Rev. Peterson Sozi, pastor of the Back to God ministries in Kampala, Uganda, and supported by this church. He will be briefly sharing this morning an update of what God is doing in Kampala.

You invited back this evening for a special treat with the music of Knightsounds, a group of high school singers from Orange City, Iowa. These students of Unity Christian High School tour each year bringing great music throughout the upper Midwest. Tonight, its our privilege to have them here at Unity! Come and be blessed this evening through this ministry of music!

Please remember in prayer this week Pastor Jeff as he concludes his work on his thesis, which is due on Wednesday. Pray for both rest and fruit-filled labor and review of his work! Pastor Jeff will be traveling to Grand Rapids, Michigan the week of May 16 to defend his thesis.

The Junior Senior Prom committee at CMCS is looking for "no-longer-in-use" LP records (remember, those large black things that had recorded music on them!). If you have some they can use for decorations, please contact Tenae Zondervan or the school.

Unity Family Cares and Concerns

Pastor Wendy is in Michigan attending a retreat for women in ministry in the Christian Reformed Church. She plans to return Monday afternoon.

THIS WEEK AT UNITY
Tuesday: 4:00pm Worship Planning Team Meeting
Wednesday: 7:00pm Youth Group grades 7 - 12 meet at Duinincks
Wednesday: 7:00pm Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University Last Class (Potluck)

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT UNITY

Prayer Chain Notice: A new updated Prayer Chain list is in your mailbox today. You may find your name in a new spot so check it out and post your group listing near your phone. Thank you for your faithful prayers.

Sunday School Information: NEXT SUNDAY, April 24, Unity Sunday School classes K - 9 will be doing a church service at Clara City Care Center as a service project. We will depart from church at 8:45am and will be returning at 10:00am.

Sunday School Appreciation Lunch: Teachers & Helpers & their families, in appreciation for all your help there is a luncheon after church today. Thank you for all your help this year with Sunday School and Children’s church.

Margin Video Series: Crunched for time? Join us for an adult education class that will help restore some margin to your life! The class meets at 9:00am Sunday mornings and will continue for the next 2 weeks. You can join at anytime. Each session is very beneficial.

Mexican Fiesta: Unity Youth Group is inviting everyone to their Mexican Fiesta on April 27th. Serving will be from 4:30 - 7:00 pm. Take out is available. Free-will offering will go towards our mission trip.

St. Cloud Prison Chapel Opportunities: Are you looking for a chance to worship God with other believers in a very unique setting? A team of people from Unity worships at the St. Cloud Correctional Facility four times each year. Training sessions in St. Cloud are available for people who would like to join this team. Upcoming spring training sessions are Monday, May 9, 6pm - 9pm, Saturday, May 21, 9am - 12noon and Tuesday, June 7, 6pm - 9pm. Call Sarah Brouwer for more information.

Unity Game Night: Laughter, food, & good company! Who can resist? Come to Unity on Friday, April 29, at 7:00p.m. There will be board games for all ages, and a Bonko tournament, but you're welcome to take along your games. Bring a snack & 2 liter bottle of pop to share. It'll be a great night!

Advanced Notice: The 2005 Women of Faith Conference in St. Paul will be held October 21-22. Take some time to get away with friends or invite family to join you for this incredible time of refreshment. Twenty-five (25) tickets are available through Angela Zwart on a first-come basis.

Graduate Information: Parents or Students we would like you submit a short article about the graduating students, please include information such as, student’s name, graduation date, what were they all involved in, plans for after graduation, what degree they have, and open house information. If there is anything else you would like to include please do so. Please have them to the office by Sunday April 24. Thank you for all your help.

GEMS and Moms: Reminder to mark your calendar to attend the end - of - the year mother daughter banquet on Wednesday, April 27 at 6:30pm at the First CRC basement.

COMMUNITY & SURROUNDING AREA ANNOUNCEMENTS

Friendship Class, Monday at 7:00 pm at the Willmar CRC. Lesson 4, but no small group. Have the craft already prepared. Please bring in all teacher manuals. Pizza for lunch.

Benefit
There is going to be a benefit for Trent Roelofs, son of Scott & Cindy. Trent is being treated for leukemia. It will be Tuesday , April 19, 2005. Serving will be from 5:00pm - 7:30pm at Bunde Christian Reformed Church. Menu will be pork sandwiches, beans, chips and potato salad. Proceeds will go to help with medical expenses.

CMCS Spring Concerts
The CMCS high school spring concert will be presented Tuesday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the high school gym. Those performing will be the 9 - 12 concert band and concert choir, girls chorus, male chorus, 2 mixed ensembles, girls sextet, and vocal solos by Jon Evink and Josh Layman. We’re looking forward to presenting our concert to you. All groups are under the direction of Michelle Mulder.

On Friday, April 22, the CMCS K-6th grade will share a tribute to their grandparents through instruments, song, and spoken word. At 12:30 p.m. the 5th and 6th grade bands and choirs will give a short concert that will be followed by the K-4 concert which begins at 1:15 p.m.

The CMCS K - 4 Spring Program will be held Friday, April 22 at 7:00pm in the high school gym. The hymns chosen are part of our Christian musical history and an important part of our Christian heritage. The students will be singing these hymns that are arranged in the praise and worship feel of today. We would love to see you there.

CMCS Parent’s Club Meeting
The CMCS Parent's Club will hold its final meeting for the school year 2004-2005 on Monday, April 25. We will meet at 7:30 in the High School Music Room. We will hear a few musical numbers from our students. We will then proceed to the business meeting. We will be electing new officers, and voting on a couple of items to purchase. We will also take a few moments to recognize a couple of the CMCS staff that are not returning next fall. There will be discussion on fund raising activities for the next school year. We encourage ALL parents to attend this important meeting.

Senior Citizens
Our April meeting will be a pot-luck dinner at the community center. We will meet for an 11:30 SHARP noon meal lunch on Thursday, April 28. We will be entertained by some small choral groups from CMCS. A report on the Senior Housing Project will be given.

Women’s Retreat
First Church in Prinsburg is holding a Women’s Retreat, “Fresh as a Daisy,” April 30th, 9am-2pm. All women are invited and welcome to come to freshen up their minds, bodies, and souls.

Dordt College’s 50th Anniversary
Nearly 200 musicians from Dordt College, Sioux Center, will perform at Central Lutheran Church, 333 South Twelfth Street, Minneapolis, on Saturday, April 23, 7:30pm as part of a Midwest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of Dordt College. Performing will be the Dordt College Orchestra, Concert Band, Concert Choir and Chorale, with a mass rendition of the Jubilee commissioned piece, “Lord You Have Been Our Dwelling Place.” Also performing will be soprano Tricia Van Ee, a Dordt College alumna who has trained vocally in Vienna and Salzburg, Austria, and was recently a featured soloist with the Civic Orchestra of Minneapolis. Reservations for preferred concert seating may be made by calling Dordt College at 1-800-343-6738, Extension #3. The concert is free, with a freewill offering being received to cover tour expenses. Refreshments and social time will follow the concert.

A 50th Anniversary Celebration will be held on the campus of Dordt College in Sioux Center on July 1-3. Everyone is invited to attend events throughout the weekend, including music and theater performances, youth and alumni intramural sports, socials, food, art, a parade, fireworks and more. Most events are free, but some require pre-registration or minimal fees. For additional details or to register, call for a brochure at 1-800-343-6738 (extension #3) or visit www.dordt.edu/events/jubilee/

Vacation Bible School
Let’s go on a Safari Adventure, June 6-10 at First CRC. Children are invited to attend our Vacation Bible School Program. Kids will meet friends, explore Bible stories, do fun activities, sing great songs, make crafts, play games, eat snacks, and more! We expect a great response. Your prayers are appreciated. Ask God to bring children to hear about Jesus, our King and Savior. Ask God to provide willing helpers, eager to share His love in Jesus. We need 8 teachers and 8 or more helpers. Anyone that has completed 9th grade and up can be a teacher and helpers can be students who have completed 7th & 8th grade. Will you prayerfully consider helping for just one week? Anyone interested or who has questions call Nora Ziehl-967-4293.

Lake Geneva Christian Reformed Family Conference
Mark your calendars now and PLAN TO ATTEND the Lake Geneva Christian Reformed Family Conference to be held at Alexandria, Minnesota on August 8 - 11, 2005. Join with us as we celebrate our twenty –second year of conferences. Dr. Carl Bremer from Primary Focus and Evangelist Verlyn Schaap from Sargeant Bluff, IA will be the Keynote speakers. A concert is scheduled for Wednesday evening. There are scheduled activities for children, preschool through high school age. Watch for registration announcement in your bulletin at a later date. Bring your family - invite your friends - plan to be challenged and inspired.

10:00 A.M. MORNING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Lead Worshipers: Bryan De Groot and Praise Team
Special Music: Jessica De Groot, Jacob Zondervan, & Luke Covert
Giving of our Firstfruits: General Fund (Next Week: Building Fund)
Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:1-14, Hebrews 11:24-28 (Reader: Roxie Marcus)
Message Series: Ordinary People, Extraordinary God
Today’s Message: Moses: From Prince to Putty to Power (Pastor Steve)
Blessing and Sending

6:00 P.M. EVENING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Offering: Unity Childcare
Scripture: The Bible
Message: Right to Live, Right to Die (Part 2) (Pastor Steve)

WORSHIP NOTES

Welcome! The Lord be with you and bless you this day! Worship with joy and freedom day in the strength of the Lord and His mighty power.

This morning we begin a 4-part series of messages entitled: “Ordinary People, Extraordinary God.” We will look at four Biblical figures who were taken from ordinary to extraordinary not by their own means but by God working in them. We begin with Moses today. Moses landed into the middle of one of the most complex situations recorded in Scripture. He lived as a prince, a fugitive, a fumbling speaker, and as the leader of God’s people. How is that possible? Stay tuned!

This evening we will continue a very delicate and difficult subject: Right to Live, Right to Die. We will plan to look at several key core non-negotiables regarding life and die and where Christians need to go from there.

There are several who have expressed interest in making Profession of Faith in the very near future. Some of you have already indicated to your Youth Leaders and Sunday School teachers your desire. If you are interested and you haven’t talked to anyone yet about it, please contact one of the pastors. If you are an adult and would like to express your new commitment to Jesus Christ, we welcome you also.

The Unity Council will be in prayer and study this Saturday as part of their annual Council Retreat. Please pray for the church leadership as they pray, listen and learn regarding the will of God for our ministry and future direction. If you have any input for them, please contact a member of Council this week.

Unity Family Cares and Concerns

Pastor Wendy will be in Michigan next weekend to attend a retreat for women in ministry in the Christian Reformed Church. She plans to return Monday afternoon.

Martha Barcos plans to “graduate” from her treatment program at Transformation House in Fridley at 3:00 on April 28. She would love to have some of her friends from Unity join her for this joyous occasion. Contract Marly for more details. Martha hopes to be able to worship with us again on May!

THIS WEEK AT UNITY

Tuesday: 4:00pm Worship Planning Team Meeting
Wednesday: 7:00pm Youth Group grades 10-12 meet at Taatjes
Wednesday: 7:00pm SHARP! Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT UNITY

Margin Video Series: Crunched for time? Join us for an adult education class that will help restore some margin to your life! The class meets at 9:00am Sunday mornings and will continue for the next 3 weeks. You can join at anytime. Each session is very beneficial.

Sunday School Information: On April 24, Unity Sunday School classes K - 9 will be doing a church service at Clara City Care Center as a service project. We will depart from church at 8:45am and will be returning at 10:00am.

Sunday School Teacher/Helper Appreciation: The last day of Sunday School will be May 1. In appreciation for all the help there will be a luncheon after church on Sunday, April 17 for all teachers, helpers and their families, this includes children’s church. Please RSVP to Rita Ninneman 978-8903 or to the church office 978-4300 by Tuesday, April 12. We would like to have a count of people. Thank you.

Mexican Fiesta: Unity Youth Group is inviting everyone to their Mexican Fiesta on April 27th. Serving will be from 4:30 - 7:00 pm. Take out is available. Free-will offering will go towards our mission trip.

Council Nominations: The time is soon approaching when we will be selecting several new officebearers at Unity. If you would like to nominate someone for the office of elder or deacon, or if you feel led to offer to serve on the Council, please contact a current Council member. Nominations will be received until April 15th.

GEMS Ladies Tea: Just a reminder to mark your calendar on April 13 for the Ladies Tea in the First CRC basement at 3:30pm.

St. Cloud Prison Chapel Opportunities: Are you looking for a chance to worship God with other believers in a very unique setting? A team of people from Unity worships at the St. Cloud Correctional Facility four times each year. Training sessions in St. Cloud are available for people who would like to join this team. Upcoming spring training sessions are Monday, May 9 , 6pm - 9pm, Saturday, May 21, 9am - 12noon and Tuesday, June 7, 6pm - 9pm. Call Sarah Brouwer for more information.

Unity Game Night: Laughter, food, & good company! Who can resist? Come to Unity on Friday, April 29, at 7:00p.m. There will be board games for all ages, and a Bonko tournament, but you're welcome to take along your games. Bring a snack & 2 liter bottle of pop to share. It'll be a great night!

Advanced Notice: The 2005 Women of Faith Conference in St. Paul will be held October 21-22. Take some time to get away with friends or invite family to join you for this incredible time of refreshment. Twenty-five (25) tickets are available through Angela Zwart on a first-come basis.

COMMUNITY & SURROUNDING AREA ANNOUNCEMENTS

Dordt College’s 50th Anniversary
Nearly 200 musicians from Dordt College, Sioux Center, will perform at Central Lutheran Church, 333 South Twelfth Street, Minneapolis, on Saturday, April 23, 7:30pm as part of a Midwest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of Dordt College. Performing will be the Dordt College Orchestra, Concert Band, Concert Choir and Chorale, with a mass rendition of the Jubilee commissioned piece, “Lord You Have Been Our Dwelling Place.” Also performing will be soprano Tricia Van Ee, a Dordt College alumna who has trained vocally in Vienna and Salzburg, Austria, and was recently a featured soloist with the Civic Orchestra of Minneapolis. Reservations for preferred concert seating may be made by calling Dordt College at 1-800-343-6738, Extension #3. The concert is free, with a freewill offering being received to cover tour expenses. Refreshments and social time will follow the concert.

A 50th Anniversary Celebration will be held on the campus of Dordt College in Sioux Center on July 1-3. Everyone is invited to attend events throughout the weekend, including music and theater performances, youth and alumni intramural sports, socials, food, art, a parade, fireworks and more. Most events are free, but some require pre-registration or minimal fees. For additional details or to register, call for a brochure at 1-800-343-6738 (extension #3) or visit www.dordt.edu/events/jubilee/

Women’s Retreat:
First Church in Prinsburg is holding a Women’s Retreat, “Fresh as a Daisy,” April 30th, 9am-2pm. All women are invited and welcome to come to freshen up their minds, bodies, and souls. More details are available in your church mailboxes.

Vacation Bible School:
Let’s go on a Safari Adventure, June 6-10 at First CRC. Children are invited to attend our Vacation Bible School Program. Kids will meet friends, explore Bible stories, do fun activities, sing great songs, make crafts, play games, eat snacks, and more! We expect a great response. Your prayers are appreciated, ask God to bring children to hear about Jesus, our King and Savior. Ask God to provide willing helpers, eager to share His love in Jesus. We need 8 teachers and 8 or more helpers. Anyone that has completed 9th grade and up can be a teacher and helpers can be students who have completed 7th & 8th grade. Will you prayerfully consider helping for just one week? Anyone interested or who has questions call Nora Ziehl-967-4293.

CMCS Annual Soup Supper:
The Central Minnesota Christian School societies invite you to their soup supper Tuesday, April 12 at the high school gym. Serving time is 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. A variety of soups and desserts will be served. Freewill donations will be accepted at the door.

CMCS Annual Meeting:
The CMCS Annual Meeting is planned for Tuesday, April 12, 2005, beginning at 7:30 in the high school music room. Many items of business will be reported and acted upon. We wish for all parents to be in attendance.

CMCS High School Drama:
The CMCS high school drama department will be presenting the musical Annie on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, April 14, 15, and 16 at 7:00pm in the high school gym. Tickets are $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for students. They are available in the high school office or you may purchase them at the door each night. Come and be entertained as you see Annie and her rags-to-riches story.

CMCS Spring Concerts

The CMCS high school spring concert will be presented Tuesday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the high school gym. Those performing will be the 9 - 12 concert band and concert choir, girls chorus, male chorus, 2 mixed ensembles, girls sextet, and vocal solos by Jon Evink and Josh Layman. We’re looking forward to presenting our concert to you. All groups are under the direction of Michelle Mulder.

On Friday, April 22, the CMCS K-6th grade will share a tribute to their grandparents through instruments, song, and spoken word. At 12:30 p.m. the 5th and 6th grade bands and choirs will give a short concert that will be followed by the K-4 concert which begins at 1:15 p.m.

The CMCS K - 4 Spring Program will be held Friday, April 22 at 7:00pm in the high school gym. The hymns chosen are part of our Christian musical history and an important part of our Christian heritage. The students will be singing these hymns that are arranged in the praise and worship feel of today. We would love to see you there.

10:00 A.M. MORNING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Lead Worshipers: Bryan De Groot and Praise Team
Praying for the Church and the World
Giving of our Firstfruits: Long-Term Missions (Next Week: General Fund)
Scripture Reading (Scripture Reader: Sandy Leininger)
Today’s Message: When Easter Meets Death (Pastor Steve & Pastor Jeff)
Responding in Prayer and Song
Blessing and Sending

6:00 P.M. EVENING WORSHIP CELEBRATION

Offering: CRWRC
Scripture: TBA
Message: (Pastor Steve)

WORSHIP NOTES

1 Corinthians 15:54-57 "Death has been swallowed up in victory." 55 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Welcome to Unity on this first Sunday after Easter! May God grant ou peace and the victory that is ours in Jesus Christ!

Unity Church Family Cares and Concerns

We express our love and offer our prayers as a Unity Church family to Roger & Linda Ulferts, Chad & Sonia Ulferts, Joe & Wendy Ulferts, Chad & Heather (Ulferts) Groen, & their family in the passing of Grietje Ulferts, Roger’s mother. The funeral was held this past week in Bunde Christian Reformed Church. Roger and Linda will be in Arizona until April 20. Their address there is 7206 E. Desert Spoon Lane, Gold Canyon, AZ, 85218.

Our love and prayers are also extended to Dale & Donna Elliot, Andi Ruplinger, Heather Ruplinger, honorary grandparents Hubert & Marilyn Wieberdink, and their entire family and friends in the sudden loss of a daughter and sister, Samantha (Sam) Ruplinger this past week due to an auto accident. Funeral services were held at First Church in Prinsburg this past Friday.

Please accept our love for you and know that we are praying for you in this time of loss but also sharing in the celebration of the new life each of these women now has in the presence of Jesus Christ, their Lord and Savior!

Care Packages: The end of the semester is fast approaching! We plan to send care packages to our college students this week to share our love for them and to help get them through to finals. If you would like to donate any goodies, please bring them to church sometime before Thursday morning. Thank you!

THIS WEEK AT UNITY

Tuesday: 9:30am Ladies Bible Study ~ At Connie Duininck’s
Tuesday: 4:00pm Worship Planning Team Meeting
Wednesday: 7:00pm Youth Group grades 7-12 meet at Pluimers
Wednesday: 7:00pm Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES AT UNITY

Sunday School Teachers: There will be a quick meeting for the Sunday School teachers immediately following the morning service.

Ladies Bible Study: We will have our last meeting this Tuesday, April 5th at Connie Duininck’s home at 9:30am.

Margin Video Series: Crunched for time? Join us for an adult education class that will help restore some margin to your life! The class meets at 9:00am Sunday mornings and will continue for the next 4 weeks. You can join at anytime. Each session is very beneficial.

Lives That Make A Difference: On Saturday, April 30, 2005, Hope Haven & Friendship Bible will be hosting a one-day conference in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This event will take place at the Celebrate Community Church, 1000 Sycamore Street in southeast Sioux Falls, (the former Sioux Falls Christian High School). Keynote Speaker will be Judy Siegle, a gifted athlete, speaker, author, and woman of faith, who will challenge us from her wheelchair to make a difference in someone’s life. This is a conference you do not want to miss! In addition to the powerful testimony of Judy, there will be 18 workshops offered. Nine are focused on those involved in the Friendship Bible program and nine on topics such as Autism, Mental Illness and Grief and Loss. Workshop leaders will include Nella Uitvlugt, Director of Friendship Ministries, and Rev. Jim Vander Laan, Director of the Disability Concerns Committee of the Christian Reformed Church and many more. The registration cost is $35.00, $25.00 for students or a group of 5 or more, which covers the luncheon, and all materials. If you are interested in going contact Rita Ninneman or Wendell Bonnema. We would like to have 5 people attend from Unity.

Mexican Fiesta: Unity Youth Group is inviting everyone to their Mexican Fiesta on April 27th. Serving will be from 4:30 - 7:00 pm. Take out is available. Free-will offering will go towards our mission trip.

Council Nominations: The time is soon approaching when we will be selecting several new officebearers at Unity. If you would like to nominate someone for the office of elder or deacon, or if you feel led to offer to serve on the Council, please contact a current Council member. Nominations will be received until April 15th.

GEMS Ladies Tea: Just a reminder to mark your calendar on April 13 for the Ladies Tea in the First CRC basement at 3:30pm.

St. Cloud Prison Chapel Opportunities: Are you looking for a chance to worship God with other believers in a very unique setting? A team of people from Unity worships at the St. Cloud Correctional Facility four times each year. Training sessions in St. Cloud are available for people who would like to join this team. Upcoming spring training sessions are Monday, May 9 , 6pm - 9pm, Saturday, May 21, 9am - 12noon and Tuesday, June 7, 6pm - 9pm. Call Sarah Brouwer for more information

COMMUNITY & SURROUNDING AREA ANNOUNCEMENTS

Friendship Class At Willmar CRC, 7:00 pm.

April 4 - Unit Three: Lesson Three, Lunch ~ Robin & Helene
April 18 - Unit Three: Lesson Four

Dear Friends,
We have a few Friendship meetings left and would like to invite anyone interested to come and visit us. Monday night class will meet on April 4 and 18. Tuesday night has one more meeting on April 5. It's not too early to think about getting involved with Friendship for next year. We want to thank Rose VanEngen and Laura Hoekstra for leading our lessons this year. And thanks to those who led the music and for each Mentor who faithfully served this year. Thank-you all, for supporting us financially and with your prayers.
We also appreciated the gifts given in Memory of Martha Meyer, Ed Miller and David Trondrud.

In His Service,
The Friendship Board

Dordt College’s 50th Anniversary
Nearly 200 musicians from Dordt College, Sioux Center, will perform at Central Lutheran Church, 333 South Twelfth Street, Minneapolis, on Saturday, April 23, 7:30pm as part of a Midwest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of Dordt College. Performing will be the Dordt College Orchestra, Concert Band, Concert Choir and Chorale, with a mass rendition of the Jubilee commissioned piece, “Lord You Have Been Our Dwelling Place.” Also performing will be soprano Tricia Van Ee, a Dordt College alumna who has trained vocally in Vienna and Salzburg, Austria, and was recently a featured soloist with the Civic Orchestra of Minneapolis. Reservations for preferred concert seating may be made by calling Dordt College at 1-800-343-6738, Extension #3. The concert is free, with a freewill offering being received to cover tour expenses. Refreshments and social time will follow the concert.

A 50th Anniversary Celebration will be held on the campus of Dordt College in Sioux Center on July 1-3. Everyone is invited to attend events throughout the weekend, including music and theater performances, youth and alumni intramural sports, socials, food, art, a parade, fireworks and more. Most events are free, but some require pre-registration or minimal fees. For additional details or to register, call for a brochure at 1-800-343-6738 (extension #3) or visit www.dordt.edu/events/jubilee/

Women’s Retreat:
First Church in Prinsburg is holding a Women’s Retreat, “Fresh as a Daisy,” April 30th, 9am-2pm All women are invited and welcome to come to freshen up their minds, bodies, and souls. Please watch for more details as the day gets closer.