September 2007 Archives

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2: 1-10; 4: 1-6
Message: "The Making of a Disciple" (Pastor Jeff)
Offering: Love Fund
Lead Worshiper: Bryan De Groot

Welcome to Unity Church!

May you find grace, mercy, peace, love, joy, and fellowship in this place. God is always on the move and he has invited us to join him in the work he is doing. As we gather together today, may we hear his voice more clearly, be transformed by his Spirit, and set foot into this week with a renewed passion for Christ and his kingdom.

Unity Church Announcements

Pastor Jeff Out of Office

Pastor Jeff will be attending the "Can Do" Rural Church Conference in Sioux Falls, SD this week. The conference is sponsored by a Sustaining Pastoral Excellence grant and will include several pastors from our Classis. Pastor Jeff and Wendy will be leaving for Iowa to visit their new nephew this Friday as well.

Christmas Program Director

The Worship Planning Team is looking for someone to direct this year’s Christmas Program. We are not planning on a major production this year, but would like to have a meaningful time celebrating together. If you are interested please talk to Tom Bruin or one of the pastors.

Missions Prayer Time Next Week

You are invited to join the Missions & Outreach Team for a time of prayer for our missionaries at 9:00am next week (and the first Sunday of the month) in Pastor Jeff’s Office.

Missionary Visit and Potluck Celebration

Erik & Ele Brohaugh will be visiting us the weekend of October 14th. Erik would love to go canoeing on Saturday, October 13th. Anyone interested in joining for a paddle should contact Marly. If you do not have a canoe, we may be able to round up a few. We hope to meet for prayer with Erik and Ele at 9:00 on Sunday morning in Pastor Jeff's study. Consider joining us for this important way of supporting their mission. Following worship on the 14th we plan to have a potluck with them as well. Everyone is welcome!

CADETS

The Prinsburg Cadet Club will have their kick-off on Wednesday, October 3 at 6:30 PM at the Fellowship Hall in Prinsburg. All boys in grades 2-8 are invited to join us. We will be playing outdoor games, weather permitting. You do not need to wear your uniforms but if you need a different size shirt, please bring your old one along. Call Byron Tebben with any questions. Thank you!

The Weekly Calendar

View The Monthly Church Calendar

Today (5th Sunday):
10:00am: Morning Worship
Children ages 3-preK and k-1 will be invited by announcement to go to Children’s Church. ~ Offering: Love Fund
12:00pm: Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. (At various homes)

Monday:
4:45pm: Worship Planning Meeting
6:15pm: Elders & Deacons Meetings
7:00pm: Full Council Meeting
7:00pm: Friendship Class, at Willmar CRC, ~ Lunch, Patci & Ruby, Lesson 1

Tuesday:
3:30pm: Teen “Kick-it” Class

Wednesday:
6:30pm: Cadet Kick Off, First CRC ~ All boys grades 2-8, are welcome
7:00pm: Men’s Jail Ministry
7:00pm: Youth Group, Grades 7-12 at the Rock on 8th
9:00: Worship Team Practice

Thursday:
7:00pm: Gospel Class

Next Sunday (1st Sunday):
NO Gospel Class - Only on Thursday this week
9:00am: Missions Prayer Time
9:00am: Sunday School, grades 2-12
10:00am: Worship
6:30pm: Area Wide Disability Awareness 25th Anniversary Celebration at First CRC

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Pro-Life Evening

Would you like to learn more about life issues and be involved in efforts to protect innocent human lives? Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life will hold its fall Tour meeting on Tuesday, October 9 from 7pm - 9pm at the Community Christian School in Willmar (1300 - 19th Ave. SW, Willmar). A speaker from MCCL’s State office will explain adult stem-cell scientific breakthroughs, how to help women find alternatives to abortion, and much more. Come and find out how you can help save lives.

OCTOBER 7 AREA COMBINED DISABILITY AWARENESS SERVICE

The Area Christian Reformed and Reformed Churches are inviting all to an evening of Encouragement, Praise and Worship at First Prinsburg Christian Reformed Church, October 7 at 6:30 pm. Rev. Mark Stephenson will be the guest speaker. He will encourage us who live with a disability and challenge the church body on how to respond to those with special needs. Disability Concerns is celebrating their 25th anniversary. It is a synodically established office responsible for raising consciousness in the churches of the needs and gifts of people with disabilities, and for seeking the full participation of people with disabilities in the life of the churches. The offering will go to this ministry. We welcome all to this service; fellowship and coffee will be served afterwards.

Senior Citizens

The Seniors will meet at the community center on Thursday, October 11. We will have the usual pot-luck at 12:oo noon. We will be entertained by the Martin Family. A love gift will be excepted. Cards & Games to follow, if time allows. A - J: salad K - O: dessert R - Z: casserole

Celebration of Life Concert

Hope Pregnancy Center is sponsoring a Mark Schultz concert for our annual Celebration of Life on Thursday, October 11, 2007, 7:00pm at the Evangelical Free Church of Willmar. Tickets are selling fast, you can purchase a $10.00 general admission ticket at Good News Book Store in Willmar or by calling Hope Pregnancy Center at 1-320-235-7619. See you at the concert!

The Salvation Army WINTER WARM –UP

Cold Weather Clothing Drive: Please donate new or gently-used winter outerwear including hats, mittens, scarves, snow pants, snow suits and coats (especially needed, children’s and large men’s & women’s) to The Salvation Army, in joint effort with Nelsen’s Cleaners and Burlington Northern Railroad. To distribute to the needy in our community. The coat drive will be from September 24th through October 18th. Bring your donations to The Salvation Army Corps Community Center (521 4th St. SW, Willmar), Nelsons Cleaners (220 Benson Ave. SW, Willmar) or to Burlington Northern Railroad. If you are in need of winter clothing distribution is October 17th & 18th from 10:00am - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 4:00pm at The Salvation Army. Requirements To Receive Winter Clothing: Income verification or no income verification Proof of residency in Kandiyohi County

Emden’s First Annual “Dinner and a Show”

This event will take place in the Emden Church in Renville on Wednesday, November 14. The featured performer will be Dr. Daniel Rieppel, Professor of Music at SMSU in Marshall. He is a world renowned pianist known for his exceptional piano skills. Other performers will include a sawyer, a Teacher’s Inc Quartet, violinists, a dramatist, an accordion player, other pianists, and a special guest favoring the crowd with a version of “Lime Jell-O, Marshmallow, Cottage Cheese Surprise”! This evening of fun, food, and fellowship will prove to be a very relaxing, entertaining, and enjoyable occasion! The meal of barbecued pork sandwiches, baked beans, chips, and homemade pie with ice cream will commence at 5:30 and conclude in time for the 7:00 performance! Cost of this event is only $7- children five and under-$3! See you there.

55+ Driver improvement Program

Tuesday, October 23 from 4:30pm—8:30pm The 4 hour Driver Improvement course is open to the public; however, pre-registration is requested. A MN Highway Safety & Research Center certified instructor teaches this class. Driver safety, confidence and comfort are enhanced by utilizing the most up-to-date research in the field, including the latest visual scanning and steering techniques, anti-lock braking (ABS) skills, airbag information, driver distraction, road rage and new vehicle technology. The fee for the four hour refresher course is $18.00 and the eight hour course is $20.00. For more information or to register call TOLL FREE 1-(888)-234-1294

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Scripture Reading: John 10: 1-19, 24-30
Message: “Following the Voice of the Good Shepherd ” (Pastor Jeff)
Offering: Unity Ministries
Lead Worshiper: Jason Ver Steeg

Welcome to Unity Church!

We come to this place together to worship God. As the psalmist says we kneel before the Lord our Maker, as his people, as his flock, as the sheep of his pasture. May we follow the voice of the Shepherd who gives us peace, security, and life.

The Weekly Calendar

View The Monthly Church Calendar

Today (4th Sunday):
10:00am: Morning Worship
Children ages 3-preK and k-1 will be invited by announcement to go to Children’s Church.

Tuesday:
3:30pm: Teen “Kick-it” Class
4:45pm: Worship Planning Meeting

Wednesday:
6:30pm: GEMS at First CRC
Lunch ~ Jacki S & Kristen S
7:00pm: Men’s Jail Ministry
7:00pm: Youth Group, Grades 9-12
at the Rock on 8th
9:00: Worship Team Practice

Thursday:
7:00pm: Gospel Class

Next Sunday (5th Sunday):
8:45am: Gospel Class
9:00am: Sunday School, grades 2-12
10:00am: Worship
~Offering: Love Fund

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Sunday, October 7

Area Wide Disability Awareness 25th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, November 11

CRC “Rededicating” 150th Anniversary Combined Worship
at Willmar Evangelical Free Church

UNITY CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Members Welcome

This morning we are welcoming as Darrel and Carol Frikke and Scott and Taryn Buteyn as members of our church. We thank God for their presence and service among us.

Love Fund Offering

Next Sunday is the fifth Sunday of the month, which means that our offering will be for the Love Fund. All undesignated checks and cash will go to help support those in our church and community who are in great financial need.

Christmas Program Director

The Worship Planning Team is looking for someone to direct this year’s Christmas Program. We are not planning on a major production this year, but would like to have a meaningful time celebrating together. If you are interested please talk to Tom Bruin or one of the pastors.

GEMS Food Shelf Collection

On Wednesday, September 26, the GEMS will be going door to door in town collecting for the Willmar Area Food Shelf. We request no perishable or home canned items. Cash donations are also welcome. If you won't be home or don't live in town and would like to donate, please bring your items to the Fellowship Hall at First CRC on Wednesday afternoon.

GEMS Fundraiser

The Prinsburg GEMS club is selling Papa Murphy’s Take N Bake pizzas. The Papa Murphy’s pizza wagon will be in Prinsburg at First CRC on September 28, 2007 from 4:30 to 6:30pm. They are collecting orders ahead of time and then you will be able to pick up your pizzas with out any hassle. All pizzas come in the family size. Order forms are found in your mailboxes here at church. If you did not get one there are extra’s on the information table. All orders must be prepaid. Please make checks out to: Prinsburg GEMS club. All your orders need to be turned in to Joyce Marcus or Pat Groen by TODAY! You can put your order form in their box. If you are unable to pick up your order at the designated time on September 28 contact Rae Jean Bulthuis or Melanie Post to make other arrangements.

CADETS

The Prinsburg Cadet Club will have their kick-off on Wednesday, October 3 at 6:30 PM at the Fellowship Hall in Prinsburg. All boys in grades 2-8 are invited to join us. We will be playing outdoor games, weather permitting. You do not need to wear your uniforms but if you need a different size shirt, please bring your old one along. Call Byron Tebben with any questions. Thank you!

OCTOBER 7 AREA COMBINED DISABILITY AWARENESS SERVICE

The Area Christian Reformed and Reformed Churches are inviting all to an evening of Encouragement, Praise and Worship at First Prinsburg Christian Reformed Church, October 7 at 6:30 pm. Rev. Mark Stephenson will be our guest speaker. He will encourage us who live with a disability and challenge the church body on how to respond to those with special needs. Disability Concerns is celebrating their 25th anniversary. It is a synodically established office responsible for raising consciousness in the churches of the needs and gifts of people with disabilities, and for seeking the full participation of people with disabilities in the life of the churches. The offering will go to this ministry. We welcome all to this service; fellowship and coffee will be served afterwards.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Spaghetti Supper & Silent Auction Benefit for Ryan Depew

You are invited to a Spaghetti Supper and Silent Auction Benefit for Ryan Depew. This benefit will assist Ryan with expenses related to his recovery from a swimming pool accident that damaged his spinal cord and vertebrae. Come Thursday, September 27th from 4:30pm—8:00pm at KMS High School in Kerkhoven. The Menu will be spaghetti, Caesar salad, breadstick, bar, coffee, milk or water. Everyone is welcome.

Speak Out for Life!

High school juniors and seniors: Enter the MCCL Oratory Contest and win cash! Students write and present an original 5-7 minute pro-life speech on abortion, euthanasia, infanticide or stem cell research. The winner receives $50.00 and advances to the MCCL State Oratory Contest held in April in St. Paul. The state winner receives an expense paid trip for two to compete in the National Right to Life Oratory Contest, to be held July 5, 2008 in Washington, D.C. The local contest will be held at 6:00pm on October 9 in Willmar. For details, contact Jackie Cain. Registration deadline is September 25.

Celebration of Life Concert

Hope Pregnancy Center is sponsoring a Mark Schultz concert for our annual Celebration of Life on Thursday, October 11, 2007, 7:00pm at the Evangelical Free Church of Willmar. Tickets are selling fast, you can purchase a $10.00 general admission ticket at Good News Book Store in Willmar or by calling Hope Pregnancy Center at 1-320-235-7619. See you at the concert!

Pro-Life Evening

Would you like to learn more about life issues and be involved in efforts to protect innocent human lives? Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life will hold its fall Tour meeting on Tuesday, October 9 from 7pm - 9pm at the Community Christian School in Willmar (1300 - 19th Ave. SW, Willmar). A speaker from MCCL’s State office will explain adult stem-cell scientific breakthroughs, how to help women find alternatives to abortion, and much more. Come and find out how you can help save lives.

55+ Driver improvement Program

Tuesday, October 23, 4:30pm—8:30pm The 4-hr Driver Improvement course is open to the public; however, pre-registration is requested. A MN Highway Safety & Research Center certified instructor teaches this class. Driver safety, confidence and comfort are enhanced by utilizing the most up-to-date research in the field, including the latest visual scanning and steering techniques, anti-lock braking (ABS) skills, airbag information, driver distraction, road rage and new vehicle technology. The fee for the four hour refresher course is $18.00 and the eight hour course is $20.00. For more information or to register call TOLL FREE 1-(888)-234-1294 (be sure to include the 1 before the 888 when publishing this number). Persons age 55 and older who complete the course qualify for a ten percent discount on their auto insurance premiums for three years, according to Minnesota law. First time participants must complete two four hour sessions. Repeat persons are required to take a four hour refresher course.

Will & Estate Planning

Do you find the area of wills and estate planning confusing? Do you know that there are other Christians ready to help simplify it all for you? Don Long from Barnabas Foundation is ready to help you. He will be in our area October 9-11, 2007.The purpose of Barnabas Foundation is to help Christian individuals and families implement thoughtful stewardship decisions in tax-wise estate planning. This service is available to you at no charge because of the foundation’s 200 member charitable organizations. If you don’t have a Will or it hasn’t been recently updated, give Barnabas Foundation a call toll-free at 1-888-448-3040 to schedule an appointment to meet with Don. We will be happy to help you with your estate planning needs.

One way for us to further achieve that vision is by focusing on discipleship: growing disciples. This will enable us to grow in God’s grace and more fully become Spirit-filled believers by rooting our lives in God’s word, and it will result in a deeper commitment to reach others for Jesus by encouraging and inspiring them to become and grow as disciples, too.

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Scripture Reading: Romans 5: 1-11; 18-21 (Scripture Reader: Christina Vander Pol)
Message: "A Real Human Life" (Pastor Steve)
Offering: Unity Ministries
Lead Worshiper(s): Bryan DeGroot

Welcome to Unity Church! "This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. O LORD, save us; O LORD, grant us success. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. From the house of the LORD we bless You. The LORD is God, and he has made his light shine upon us. With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession up to the horns of the altar. You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. “ Psalm 118:24-29

Join with us in celebrating the King of kings and the Lord of lords - Jesus Christ! Give thanks for His enduring love in our lives and His daily goodness to us!

The Weekly Calendar

View The Monthly Church Calendar

Today (3rd Sunday):
10:00am: Morning Worship
Children ages 3-preK and k-1 will be invited by announcement to go to Children’s Church.

Monday:
7:00pm: Friendship Class, at Willmar CRC. ~Fun night

Wednesday:
4:45pm: Worship Planning Meeting
7:00pm: Men’s Jail Ministry
7:00pm: Youth Group, Grades 7-12 at Rock on 8th
9:00: Worship Team Practice

Thursday:
7:00pm: Gospel Class

Next Sunday (4th Sunday):
8:45am: Gospel Class
9:00am: Sunday School, grades 2-12
10:00am: Worship

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Sunday, October 7
Area Wide Disability Awareness 25th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, November 11
CRC “Rededicating” 150th Anniversary Combined Worship at Willmar Evangelical Free Church

Unity Church Announcements

SRYG

Solid Rock Youth Group this Wednesday night. 7-9 p.m. for grades 7-12th. See you there - feel free to bring a friend.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?

This is a time of sharing a meal, fellowship, and fun! We had a great time last year and would like to try it again. Here’s how it works: you can sign up as a host or attendee. The host will provide the place, beverage and meat. The attendee will provide one (or two) part(s) of the meal (salad, dessert, potato, or vegetable and bread, this will be assigned). The fun part is that no one knows who is coming to dinner. The host only knows the number of attendees. The attendees will find out who their host is on Sunday morning, September 30th, but they will not know who else is dining with them. This is a family affair, your children and teenagers are invited to come along with you. You should have a sign up sheet in your mailboxes. There are extra sign up sheets on the back table. Sheets need to be turned in by TODAY! You will get your assignment in your mail box September 23. If you have any questions please contact Megan Taatjes.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

CMCS Fall Retreat

Parents and friends of CMCS are again planning a retreat for our high school students at Lake Geneva Christian Center, on September 21-23 and we need your help. Will you pray for the weekend, that God’s Spirit may move in the lives of those attending this retreat? We are greatly in need of financial help, so we can keep the cost affordable to the students. If you would be willing to help in this area, please send your donations to CMCS marked “retreat fund”. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Celebration of Life Concert

Hope pregnancy center is sponsoring a Mark Schultz concert for our annual Celebration of Life on Thursday, October 11, 2007, 7:00pm at the Evangelical Free Church of Willmar. Tickets are selling fast, you can purchase a $10.00 general admission ticket at Good News Book Store in Willmar or by calling Hope Pregnancy Center at 1-320-235-7619. See you at the concert!

Annual Ham Dinner

Sunday, September 23 at 11:00am - 1:00pm WOW! Is it really that time of year again? Renville United Methodist church is having their ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT juicy ham (with our famous horseradish and raisin sauce) dinner with real mashed potatoes and ham gravy, green beans, dinner rolls and cranberry–jello salad. And for dessert….. A piece of pie, your choosing! Take-outs are available! Adults/ $8.00, ages 5-12/ $4.00 and under 5 is free. Everyone is invited.

FRIENDSHIP MINISTRIES

Monday night Friendship Class has 60 eager students registered. They have lost 5 Mentors from last year and have increased our students by 10. If you are able and willing to be a Mentor, call Helene Dykstra. Our starting dates are September 17, October 1, 15,29, November 12, 26. We meet from 7pm-8pm. If you travel south later, we can still use you to start with. Thank-you

Will & Estate Planning

Do you find the area of Wills and estate planning confusing? Do you know that there are other Christians ready to help simplify it all for you? Don Long from Barnabas Foundation is ready to help you. He will be in our area October 9-11, 2007.The purpose of Barnabas Foundation is to help Christian individuals and families implement thoughtful stewardship decisions in tax-wise estate planning. This service is available to you at no charge because of the foundation’s 200 member charitable organizations. If you don’t have a Will or it hasn’t been recently updated, give Barnabas Foundation a call toll-free at 1-888-448-3040 to schedule an appointment to meet with Don. We will be happy to help you with your estate planning needs.

OCTOBER 7 AREA COMBINED DISABILITY AWARENESS SERVICE

The Area Christian Reformed and Reformed Churches are inviting all to an
evening of Encouragement, Praise and Worship at First Prinsburg Christian Reformed Church, October 7 at 6:30 pm. Rev. Mark Stephenson will be our guest speaker. He will encourage us who live with a disability and challenge the church body on how to respond to those with special needs. Disability Concerns is celebrating their 25th anniversary. It is a synodically established office responsible for raising consciousness in the churches of the needs and gifts of people with disabilities, and for seeking the full participation of people with disabilities in the life of the churches. The offering will go to this ministry. We welcome all to this service; fellowship and coffee will be served afterwards.

GEMS Fundraiser

The Prinsburg GEMS club is selling Papa Murphy’s Take N Bake pizzas. The Papa Murphy’s pizza wagon will be in Prinsburg at First CRC on September 28, 2007 from 4:30 to 6:30pm. We are collecting orders ahead of time and then you will be able to pick up your pizzas with out any hassle. All pizzas come in the family size. Order forms are found in your mailboxes here at church. If you did not get one there are extra’s on the information table. All orders must be prepaid. Please make checks out to: Prinsburg GEMS club. All your orders need to be turned in to Joyce Marcus or Pat Groen by September 23. You can put your order form in their box. If you are unable to pick up your order at the designated time on September 28 contact Rae Jean Bulthuis or Melanie Post to make other arrangements.

Free Fall Clothing Exchange

Harvest Community Church of will mar is sponsoring a Free Clothing exchange. The Free Clothing exchange will be held Friday, September 21st, 11am to 4pm and Saturday, September 22, 9am to 12 noon at the Harvest Community Church in Willmar. Your donations will help make the Clothing Exchange a success and a real blessing to many families in our community. However, you do not need to make a donation in order to come and take items. Everything is FREE!! Take what you can use to meet the needs of your family.

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:24-29
Message: "Constructing a Life"
Offering: Unity Ministries
Lead Worshiper(s): Bryan DeGroot

Welcome to Unity Church! We are delighted that you have joined us for worship, but more importantly God is delighted that you have chosen to worship Him this day!

Double Baptism

This morning we celebrate God’s grace and love being extended to Adler Watson (parents Aaron & Tracey) and to Sydney Watson (parents Eric & Danielle) and their families through the sign and seal of baptism. May this be a time of good news of great joy!

New Members

As part of our baptism celebration we will welcome to our fellowship the Aaron Watson family, in conjunction with Adler’s baptism and Tracey’s Profession of Faith.

The Weekly Calendar

View The Monthly Church Calendar
Today (2nd Sunday): KICK OFF SUNDAY!
10:00am: Morning Worship
Children ages 3-preK and k-1 will be invited by announcement to go to Children’s Church.

Monday:
4:45pm: Worship Planning Meeting

Wednesday:
7:00pm: Men’s Jail Ministry
9:00: Worship Team Practice

Thursday:
7:00pm: Gospel Class

Next Sunday (3rd Sunday):
9:00am: Gospel Class
10:00am: Worship

Unity Church Announcements

Thank You Thank You Thank You!!

A sincere THANK YOU to the various work crews of members who helped out this past week with moving furniture for the carpet cleaning, trimming up some of the shrubs and bushes outside, and rearranging the chairs in the sanctuary. The carpet in the classrooms, nurseries (including our NEW infant nursery), and the offices were cleaned and look fantastic! The Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall are scheduled in a couple of weeks. Our special thanks to Dave Danzeisen of Steam Brothers of Willmar for the great job cleaning the carpets! Thank you!

WOMEN OF FAITH TICKETS

We have 15 tickets left! If you would like to go to women of faith and have not purchased your ticket, contact April Swierenga to get your ticket. $65.00 per ticket. Great price! Women of Faith is Friday evening October 19 and Saturday, October 20th.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?

This is a time of sharing a meal, fellowship, and fun! We had a great time last year and would like to try it again. Here’s how it works: you can sign up as a host or attendee. The host will provide the place, beverage and meat. The attendee will provide one (or two) part(s) of the meal (salad, dessert, potato, or vegetable and bread, this will be assigned). The fun part is that no one knows who is coming to dinner. The host only knows the number of attendees. The attendees will find out who their host is on Sunday morning, September 30th, but they will not know who else is dining with them. This is a family affair, your children and teenagers are invited to come along with you. You should have a sign up sheet in your mailboxes. There are extra sign up sheets on the back table. Sheets need to be turned in by September 16th. You will get your assignment in your mail box September 23. If you have any questions please contact Megan Taatjes.

Teen “Kick-It” Class

Any teenage tobacco user is invited to attend an eight week class on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:30pm at Unity Church. The class is voluntary and confidential for teens who want to kick their habit.

Solid Rock Youth Group

Wednesday, September 12th : 9-12th grades will be spending the evening (7-9p.m.ish) at Bob & Joanne VerSteeg’s house just west of Willmar. We will have a bonfire, games, and some worship time. There is also a volleyball net, place for soccer or football, and a basketball hoop. Please come out for a fun evening as we continue to kick off this year! Pass the word and invite a friend if you wish. You can either go right to their house at 7 p.m. if you know the way, or meet at the Rock on 8th at 6:45p.m. to carpool to the VerSteeg’s.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

50 Years of Grace

September 15 - 16, Grace CRC of Inver Grove Heights will be celebrating their 50th Anniversary. Please remember them in your prayers, giving thanks for the grace that has enabled them to reach this milestone, and asking God's continued grace for vision, energy, and resources to continue serving His kingdom in Inver Grove for many years to come. For more information about the celebrations, contact Grace Church at 651-451-2717 or info@gracecrcigh.org.

CMCS Fall Retreat

Parents and friends of CMCS are again planning a retreat for our high school students at Lake Geneva Christian Center, on September 21-23 and we need your help. Will you pray for the weekend, that God’s Spirit may move in the lives of those attending this retreat? We are greatly in need of financial help, so we can keep the cost affordable to the students. If you would be willing to help in this area, please send your donations to the CMCS marked “retreat fund”. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Celebration of Life Concert

Get your tickets now for the Celebration of Life Concert featuring Mark Schultz on Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm at the Evangelical Free Church (1305 19th Ave SW, Willmar). Tickets are $15 for preferred seating or $10 for general seating. General tickets are available at Hope Pregnancy Center and Good News Christian Book Store. Preferred Seating is only available by calling Hope Pregnancy Center at 320-235-7619. There will also be an opportunity to financially support Hope Pregnancy Center at the concert.

Will & Estate Planning

Do you find the area of Wills and estate planning confusing? Do you know that there are other Christians ready to help simplify it all for you? Don Long from Barnabas Foundation is ready to help you. He will be in our area October 9-11, 2007 .The purpose of Barnabas Foundation is to help Christian individuals and families implement thoughtful stewardship decisions in tax-wise estate planning. This service is available to you at no charge because of the foundation’s 200 member charitable organizations. If you don’t have a will or it hasn’t been recently updated, give Barnabas Foundation a call toll-free at 1-888-448-3040 to schedule an appointment to meet with Don. We will be happy to help you with your estate planning needs

FRIENDSHIP MINISTRIES

Monday night Friendship Class has 60 eager students registered. They have lost 5 Mentors from last year and have increased our students by 10. If you are able and willing to be a Mentor, call Helene Dykstra. Our starting dates are September 17, October 1, 15, 29,November 12, 26. We meet from 7pm-8pm. If you travel south later, we can still use you to start with. Thank-you

Free Fall Clothing Exchange

Free Exchange of Fall Clothing will be held Friday, September 21st, 11am to 4pm and Saturday, September 22, 9am to 12noon. At the Harvest Community Church in Willmar. Your donations will help make the Clothing Exchange a success and a real blessing to many families in our community. However, you do not need to make a donation in order to come and take items. Everything is FREE!! Take what you can use to meet the needs of your family. If you can make a donation of gently–used, clean, not–stained or torn, fall or winter clothing to the Exchange, simply bring your items to Harvest Church on one of the collection dates listed below. Please be selective and bring only those items that are in suitable condition for hand-me-downs status. Collection dates: Tuesday, September 11, Noon -7pm Friday, September 14, 4pm - 7pm Saturday, September 15, 9am - Noon Tuesday, September 18, Noon - 7pm

Items Needed: Men’s, Women’s and children’s clothing (and clothing accessories), shoes, baby clothing and accessories (strollers, high chairs, swings, blankets, sheets). Please DO NOT donate any housewares, linens, baby cribs, or car seats. These items can not be accepted at drop-off.

Volunteers: If you would like to volunteer to set up or help out during the Exchange hours, please contact Mrs. Cindy Albin at 320-235-2106 or email Cindy at office@harvestwillmar.com

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Scripture Reading: Numbers 6:22-27 (Scripture Reader: Den Pluimer)
Message: “The Blessing” (Pastor Bob Pollema)
Offering: Unity Ministries
Lead Worshiper(s): Bryan DeGroot

Welcome to Unity Church! We are delighted that you have joined us for worship, but more importantly God is delighted that you have chosen to worship Him this day. It is our heart’s desire that Jesus Christ would be praised, honored, and celebrated in this place. There is nothing better in the entire universe than being in the presence of Jesus. May you truly and powerfully experience that today as we gather together to worship Him.

The Worship Planning Team has invited Pastor Bob Pollema from Bunde CRC to be one of our guest preachers this year. We welcome him today as he proclaims God’s Word among us. Pastor Jeff is preaching at Bunde this morning.

Disciples Materials Available

Pick up the Disciples materials today. Over the course of this year, we are focusing on growing as disciples of Jesus Christ. The Disciples spiritual formation program integrates corporate worship, small groups, and personal devotions. The daily devotional reading guide and small group guides are available (for free!) in the fellowship hall by signing your name on the registration form. The daily devotions and small group discussions will begin the week following our Fall Kick-Off on September 9.

The Weekly Calendar

View The Monthly Church Calendar

Today (1st Sunday):
10:00am: Morning Worship
Children ages 3-preK will be invited by announcement to go to Children’s Church.
Congregational Meeting (immediately following worship)

Tuesday:
4:45pm: Worship Planning Meeting

Wednesday:
BUILDING CLOSED ALL DAY!
7:00pm: Men’s Jail Ministry
7:00pm: Fellowship Meeting, Library
9:00: Worship Team Practice

Next Sunday (2nd Sunday):
KICK OFF SUNDAY
10:00am: Worship
Double Baptism

Next week we will witness a double baptism for cousins. Adler Watson, (parents Aaron & Tracy Watson) and Sydney Watson (parents Eric & Danielle Watson) will be baptized.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Sunday, September 9
Fall Kick-Off

Thursday, September 13 and Sunday, September 16
Gospel Class Resumes

Sunday, October 7
Area Wide Disability Awareness 25th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, November 11
CRC “Rededicating” 150th Anniversary Combined Worship at Willmar Evangelical Free Church

*** Unity Church building will be closed all day Wednesday, September 5 due to a much needed carpet cleaning.

Unity Church Announcements

Congregational Meeting Today

Immediately after our worship time this morning, we will have a congregational meeting to receive an update from the Building Expansion Team about the next steps in the building process and the decisions made to work on the plan and re-bid in January. The Building Team will also present some of the needs for the upkeep of our current facility. And the Council will lead a discussion about the plan to have two morning worship services beginning in October. Please stay in the sanctuary for this meeting. Coffee and snacks will be provided.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?

This is a time of sharing a meal, fellowship, and fun! We had a great time last year and would like to try it again. Here’s how it works: you can sign up as a host or attendee. The host will provide the place, beverage and meat. The attendee will provide one (or two) part(s) of the meal (salad, dessert, potato, or vegetable and bread, this will be assigned). The fun part is that no one knows who is coming to dinner. The host only knows the number of attendees. The attendees will find out who their host is on Sunday morning, September 30th, but they will not know who else is dining with them. This is a family affair, your children and teenagers are invited to come along with you. You should have a sign up sheet in your mailboxes. There are extra sign up sheets on the back table. Sheets need to be turned in by September 16th. You will get your assignment in your mail box September 23. If you have any questions please contact Megan Taatjes.

Bible League Thank You

Thank you for your “July Love Gift” for the Bible League. Unity CRC gave $175.00 which will purchase 44 bibles. These gifts will be used for supplying Bibles for Mexico.

A Special Thank You!

Ed Mulder would like to thank everyone for helping celebrate his 90th birthday.

WOMEN OF FAITH TICKETS

We have 15 tickets left! If you would like to go to women of faith and have not purchased your ticket, contact April Swierenga to get your ticket. $65.00 per ticket. Great price! Women of Faith is Friday evening October 19 and Saturday, October 20th.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

50 Years of Grace

September 15 - 16, Grace CRC of Inver Grove Heights will be celebrating their 50th Anniversary. Please remember them in your prayers, giving thanks for the grace that has enabled them to reach this milestone, and asking God's continued grace for vision, energy, and resources to continue serving His kingdom in Inver Grove for many years to come. For more information about the celebrations, contact Grace Church at 651-451-2717 or info@gracecrcigh.org

Celebration of Life Concert

Get your tickets now for the Celebration of Life Concert featuring Mark Schultz on Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm at the Evangelical Free Church (1305 19th Ave SW, Willmar). Tickets are $15 for preferred seating or $10 for general seating. General tickets are available at Hope Pregnancy Center and Good News Christian Book Store. Preferred Seating is only available by calling Hope Pregnancy Center at 320-235-7619. There will also be an opportunity to financially support Hope Pregnancy Center at the concert.

Teen “Kick-It” Class

Any teenage tobacco user is invited to attend an eight week class on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:30pm at Unity Church. The class is voluntary and confidential for teens who want to kick their habit.

CMCS Fall Retreat

Parents and friends of CMCS are again planning a retreat for our high school students at Lake Geneva Christian Center, on September 21-23 and we need your help. Will you pray for the weekend, that God’s Spirit may move in the lives of those attending this retreat? We are greatly in need of financial help, so we can keep the cost affordable to the students. If you would be willing to help in this area, please send your donations to the CMCS marked “retreat fund”. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Senior Citizens

We will be taking a one day tour Wednesday, September 19th to Rock Valley and Souix Center Iowa to visit and tour Hope Haven in Rock Valley and the Pella Windows plant in Souix Center. Ardy Zondervan must know Immediately if you plan to go with.

Free Fall Clothing Exchange

Free Exchange of Fall Clothing will be held Friday, September 21st, 11am to 4pm and Saturday, September 22, 9am to 12noon. At the Harvest Community Church in Willmar. Your donations will help make the Clothing Exchange a success and a real blessing to many families in our community. However, you do not need to make a donation in order to come and take items. Everything is FREE!! Take what you can use to meet the needs of your family. If you can make a donation of gently–used, clean, not–stained or torn, fall or winter clothing to the Exchange, simply bring your items to Harvest Church on one of the collection dates listed below. Please be selective and bring only those items that are in suitable condition for hand-me-downs status. Collection dates: Tuesday, September 11, Noon -7pm Friday, September 14, 4pm - 7pm Saturday, September 15, 9am - Noon Tuesday, September 18, Noon - 7pm

Items Needed: Men’s, Women’s and children’s clothing (and clothing accessories), shoes, baby clothing and accessories (strollers, high chairs, swings, blankets, sheets). Please DO NOT donate any housewares, linens, baby cribs, or car seats. These items can not be accepted at drop-off.

Volunteers: If you would like to volunteer to set up or help out during the Exchange hours, please contact Mrs. Cindy Albin at office@harvestwillmar.com.