MORNING WORSHIP
Scripture Reading: 1 Kings 12:1-15 (Scripture Reader: Lody Johnson)Message: “The Divided Kingdom: Consequences of Ignoring Wisdom” (Pastor Jeff)
Lead Worshipers: Bryan DeGroot and Praise Team
Offering: Unity Ministries
Welcome to Unity Church!
We are delighted that you have joined us for worship this morning. But more importantly, God is delighted that you are worshiping him. May his mercy release you, his grace empower you, his love quiet you, and his joy fill you as you enter his presence today.
Supporting the Persecuted Church
During the season of Lent, from Ash Wednesday (March 1) to Easter (April 16), we will be focusing our attention on some of the places around the world where Christians face intense persecution. Each week we will get a snapshot of a different nation where those who believe in Jesus are refused fundamental human rights simply because of their faith. Please make it a priority to pay attention to and pray for the needs of those who are facing suffering. As a reminder of the nations we are praying for, we will hang their flags in the sanctuary each week.
Next Week: We begin our study of the prophets by looking at Elijah. His life and ministry is characterized by a lot of turmoil, turbulence, and turnoffs. But he also demonstrates how to walk in faith, even in a world of chaos.
THE WEEKLY CALENDAR
The monthly calendar can be viewed at www.unitycrc.org/calendar
Today (2nd Sunday):
10:00am - Morning Worship
12:00pm - All-Church Potluck
5:00pm - Evening Worship
Monday:
4:00pm - Worship Planning Meeting
Tuesday:
6:00pm - Prison Ministry Training (St. Cloud, MN)
7:00pm - Ladies’ Jail Ministry
Wednesday:
7:00pm - Men’s Jail Ministry
7:00pm - Youth Group
Next Sunday (3rd Sunday):
No Sunday School
10:00am - Morning Worship
5:00pm - Evening Worship
Old Testament Challenge (OTC):
The fast-track readings for this week (Week 25) are 1 Kings 17, 18, 19:1-14 and Psalms 63, 97, 139. For the complete fast-track reading schedule, visit us online at www.unitycrc.org/otcreading. For the people who are following the full version, if you want to finish by May 28, you should be reading for week 29 (Isaiah 23-44).
UNITY FAMILY CARES AND CONCERNS
Open House Bridal Shower You are invited to an open house bridal shower for Beth Fischer, who is engaged to be married to Justin Kors. The shower will be at Unity on Sat., April 1 from 10:00am - 12:00pm.Classis Update
Classis Lake Superior (the regional body of CRC churches to which we belong) voted this past week at its meeting in Alexandria to allow female elders and pastors to be ordained in this region and delegated to its meetings. While this is an encouragement to some individuals and churches, it also proves unsettling for others. Please pray for the churches in our classis that we would seek unity in the body across this region in the months to come.
Pastor Steve in Arizona
Pastor Steve & Ang (& Seth) arrive in Arizona today for some rest and
fellowship with our snowbirds. They will be returning Tuesday, March 21. Pray for refreshment for the Zwarts, good health for their children who remain back here, and a great time of visiting with the members of our fellowship in the Phoenix/Tucson/Mesa areas.
UNITY CHURCH MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
MN Marriage Amendment
Tomorrow, Monday, March 13, there will an attempt to bring the Marriage Amendment out of committee at the Minnesota State Capitol. Minnesota for Marriage is asking as many supporters as possible to gather at the Capitol building at 11:00am to rally for the amendment. This is an important first step in getting the amendment to the floor of the Senate and on the ballot this fall. Your prayers and participation are strongly encouraged! For more info and (possible) bus ride to St. Paul, please contact Pastor Brent Waldemarsen at Harvest Community Church (235-2106) or log onto www.minnesotaformarriage.org.
Prison Ministry Training
The next training sessions for prison ministry will be held on March 14 and May 6 in St. Cloud. There will also be a training session on Tues., April 4 at Vinje Lutheran Church in Willmar.
Elder and Deacon Nominations
If you wish to nominate someone for elder or deacon, please pass along those names to one of the Council members prior to the April 8 Retreat.
Small Group Smorgasbord
As the OTC comes to a close, you may be asking what your small group should do next. In April, after Easter, will be a “buffet offering a variety of choices” for you to consider. Anyone interested in joining a small group is encouraged to attend as well.
Community Announcements
Red Cross Bloodmobile
At the Raymond Christian Reformed Church. Tuesday, March 14 from 1:00pm - 7:00pm. For appointments please call 967-41399. Walk-ins are welcome. Child care will be provided.
The Braschler Music Show
Saturday, March 19. Show times are 4:00pm and 7:00 pm. Contact Sue at 847-3641 to reserve your seat. This will be the last year that CMCS will sponsor the Braschler's.
Bunde Young Peoples Annual Soup and Pie Supper
Three kinds of soup plus a variety of pies will be served on Wednesday, March 22 from 5:00-7:30 pm. Freewill donations will go to help our youth programs. Contact Becky Graves at 967-4218 with any questions.
Calvin College Choir in Concert
As part of its Spring Tour 2006, the Capella of Calvin College will perform in concert on Friday, March 24 at 7:30pm at First CRC in Prinsburg. Under the direction of Dr. Joel Navarro, Calvin's concert choir will present the program, ”Jubilate!” on the joys of the Christian life. To close the concert the Capella will be joined by the Central Minnesota Christian High School Choir. Admission to the concert is free with a free-will offering received for the Calvin College and the Central Minnesota Christian High School music programs. For more information, contact Rev. David Zylstra at 978-8975.
Calvin College Capella Housing Needed
Would you be willing to host some of the students of the 40+ members of this group overnight and provide breakfast and a sack lunch for them on Saturday? Please sign up on the sheet on the bulletin board in the fellowship area. Thank you.
Lake Geneva Christian Reformed Family Conference
Mark your calendars for August 7- 10 for the 23rd Annual Conference. Rev. Roger Kok from Grand Rapids, MI and Rev. Calvin Hoogendoorn from Sioux Falls, SD will be this year’s keynote speakers. Registration information will be in the bulletin at a later date. Bring your family - invite your friends - plan to be challenged and inspired!
Don’t forget to support the March Campaign for the Willmar Food Shelf!
There are several ways to give:
- By designated cash in the offering
- By designated check in the offering
- By bringing food named on the “Grocery List”
Please keep the staff and clients of the Food Shelf in your prayers as well. More information and extra copies of the “Grocery List”
are located on a table in the Fellowship Hall.
