Welcome to Unity
Church today! 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 WEEKLY CALENDAR
Monday:
5:30pm:
Worship
Planning
Tuesday:
9:30am:
Ladies
Bible Study
Wednesday:
5:00pm:
Area-wide
Pinewood Derby
7:00pm:
7th
- 12th SRYG
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
2012 Area-Wide
Pinewood Derby
The 2012 Area-Wide
Pinewood Derby will be Wednesday, February 29 at the CMCS High School Gym in
Prinsburg! A free-will donation BBQ
dinner will be served from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Registration for the races will be open at 6:00 p.m. with the green
flag dropping at 7:00 p.m. Concessions will also be served during the
race. All cars must be registered, so
Cadets need to be there on time and in uniform! Come and enjoy great food and
exciting races while supporting our local Cadet clubs!
Prayer Service
Area-Wide Prayer
Service will be held on Sunday, March 11, at 6:30pm. This combined
service will be hosted at Bunde CRC’s worship facility, led by the area
pastors. Interim pastor and seminarian Jon Bushnell from First Prinsburg
will be giving the message. Everyone is encouraged to come out and pray
together to see God’s Kingdom come and God’s will to be done in this area and
in our churches!
Our Unity Church
Family
Thank you!
Our sincerest thanks
to Josh Layman for leading several of our worship services over the last year
and working with our youth in the area of worship! Josh, and his wife
Sarah, will be moving tomorrow to pursue
work and ministry there. We wish you God’s best and blessings in this
transition and the new start in front of you!
Great job
everyone!!
The Food for Kidz
Event in Willmar last Saturday far exceeded all expectations! The goal
was 280,000 meals. Over 306,200 meals were prepared! $43,000 was
needed to cover costs and send the food. Nearly $48,000 has come
in! The hope was to have 10-15 churches participate. 29
churches/organizations participated! What a message and what a difference
can be made when God’s people come together!
Encouragement
Are you willing to
write a letter to a lonely inmate? A young man with ties to our church who is
in prison would welcome a few lines of encouragement. If you feel led to drop
him a note, contact Kerry or Marly for information and address.
Community Announcements
CMCS Mission Trip
Fundraiser
The CMCS Juniors and
Seniors going on the New York Mission Trip are holding a fundraiser at Pizza
Ranch in Willmar, MN on Wednesday, March 7. Serving starts at 5:00 pm.
The students will be working and serving that evening and a percentage from the
pizza sales and tip money will be given towards the trip. Please come and enjoy
pizza and support this effort. Thank You!
CMCS Mission Trip
Items Needed
Do you have extra
sample size bottles of shampoo/cream rinse, soap, toothpaste, hand lotion,
mouthwash, etc? The New York Mission trip group would like to put together
hygiene packets for the homeless. Please drop them off at CMCS or your church
secretary. We would like them before or by March 26th. Thank you! If you
have questions, please call Sue D.
Ready For a Day Out?
Ardy Z is planning a
trip to the Plymouth Playhouse to see “A Mighty Fortress” (Church Basement
Ladies) on Wednesday, April 25, an afternoon performance. If you are
interested call Marilyn Soon so arrangements can be made. The cost of the day
trip will be aprox. $55.00 per person, including ticket, bus and lunch. All
ages are welcome.
All Youth 7th grade
- College age
Would you like to
participate in a very unique camp experience this summer? Do you love singing,
acting, fantastic choreography, fun and faith? Then look no further - this camp
is for you! Join us at Bethany Reformed Church as we prepare and perform the
high energy youth musical, "Keepin' It Real," June 11-17.
Contact Pam K. if you are interested in receiving more information.
Men’s Lenten
Breakfast
Men and their sons
are invited to “Lenten Inspirations”. Area pastors will each share an aspect of
Lent which inspires them. A hot breakfast will be served each Wednesday morning
at 6:30 am beginning February 29 through April 4 at the Bethany Reformed
Church Fellowship Hall in Clara City. Free will offering is for expenses
with extra going to the Clara City Ambulance Fund.
Advance Notice
Emden Christian
Reformed Church in Renville will be hosting a “good ol’ fashioned” Hymn Sing on
Sunday evening, March 4, at 6:00 P.M. Paul Knapper, Gar Jasper, Randy Groen, and Ned
Wohlman will lead the program.
DAD’S Belgian Waffle
Fundraiser
Roseland Reformed
Church is hosting an all you can eat Dad’s Belgian Waffle feed fundraiser on Monday,
March 5th with serving from 4:30pm -
7:00pm. There will be a free-will offering. Everyone is welcome!
Willmar Area Food
Shelf Concert
The Woodbury Chorus
& Orchestra present: “How Can I Keep from Singing Songs of the American
Spirit”. This Choral and Orchestral concert of American Music will include
Patriotic, Folk, Spiritual, Pop, Broadway and music by contemporary composers..
You are invited to come on Sunday, March 25, 2012, 4:00 p.m. at Vinje
Lutheran Church (1101 Willmar Ave SW, Willmar, MN). Admission is free, no
tickets required! 100% of the proceeds of a free will offering will benefit the
Willmar Area Food Shelf.
From Back to God
Ministries International
GROUNDWORK - The
Cross as Our Victory: Sometimes it seems as though we're on the losing side.
Sin and evil seem to be on the rise, faith is dwindling, and the church is
shrinking, Christians are increasingly marginalized. Actually, however, the
battle is already over, and our side won! Join the March 3 Groundwork
conversation on Colossians 2:13-15 and Revelation 12:10-11. Find a local radio
station or listen online at www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER - Imitation
Irritation: Scooter
likes Liz so much that he is now dressing, talking, and acting exactly like
Liz—and it’s driving Liz crazy! Help him figure out what to do with Scooter’s
admiration on this week’s Kids Corner. Check out www.kidscorner.net for devotions,
puzzles and more of Liz’s adventures.
From CRWRC
CRWRC 2012 DRS
Sunday is March 4th: -
Celebrate CRWRC’s Disaster Response Services (DRS) 40th anniversary next
Sunday! Remember survivors of floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and fires, and
support CRWRC “Green Shirt” volunteers who give their time and energy to serve
those in need. Please give generously to the ministry of CRWRC in next week’s
offering. You can also give online at www.crwrc.org/donate or by mail to:
CRWRC-DRS, 2850 Kalamazoo SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49560.
From CRC
Communications
MINISTRY WEBINAR -
The What, Why, and How of CRC Safe Church Ministry: This webinar will
provide an overview of CRC Safe Church Ministry and discuss the reasons why
abuse prevention and response is critical to the life of our churches. In
addition, we'll briefly look at how Safe Church Ministry is changing and
discover the ways it can help provide opportunities for powerful, transforming
ministry to individuals and churches. Our Presenter: Bonnie Nicholas is
Director of Safe Church Ministry for the CRCNA. Feb. 29 at noon ET. Register
now at www.crcna.org/webinars
From Sea to Sea 2013
POSITION OPENINGS -
Sea To Sea 2013 -
The Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) has 3 temporary
full-time (anticipated to begin mid April, 2012 and continue through
approximately September 2013) position openings for the 2013 Sea to Sea bike
tour initiative of the RCA and CRCNA: Advancment Manager, Communications
Manager and Bike Tour Manager. These positions are home-based positions and can
be located in the US or Canada, however travel for meetings will be required.
For more information or to apply please visit www.crcna.org/jobs by March 6.
From Calvin Seminary
CALVIN SEMINARY
EVENT -
Please join us for a Free Event: “How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens
- A Guide to Christ-Focused Reading of Scripture”. Discover how individuals and
churches can learn to read every book of the Bible as pointing to
Christ.Written by Michael Williams, Professor of Old Testament at Calvin
Seminary. March 6, 8 p.m. EST. Watch live at www.livestream.com/Zondervan -
RSVP today to get a reminder!
From Home Missions
PRAYER SUMMIT: Still Time to
Register - Home Missions is collaborating with the Korean Council and the
Ministries of the Christian Reformed Church to present the inaugural CRC Prayer
Summit, to pray together for the movement of God’s Spirit and Christ’s leading
in our lives, our families, our churches, our ministries, our cities, our
nations, and the world! The Summit will be held on April 16-18 at All Nations
CRC in the greater Los Angeles, CA area. Registration is $100 (until March
31st), and includes general admission, all meals, and shuttle service between
hotels and the Summit. To register and find out more information, visit
http://www.crcna.org/pages/summit.cfm
A special welcome
this morning to student-led praise team from Dordt College today, who will be
leading our worship time today! Thank you for ministering with us before
the Lord today!
ASH WEDNEDAY SERVICE
This WEDNESDAY
EVENING, February 22 at 7:00pm, everyone is invited for a special worship
time with prayer, song, and word to set our hearts towards this Lenten season
of remembrance of the gift of grace through Jesus Christ. Our youth will help
lead this worship time together. Make plans to join together for this
special time as God’s family.
New Officebearers
Nominations have
been made for new officebearers to be chosen by lot in April. To be
elected this year: Admin Deacon (1) to replace Tim Starkenburg,
Service Deacons (2) to replace Dan Brouwer and Scott Butyen, and
Shepherding Elders (2) to replace Alnora Bruin and Dan Ohden. Nominees will
soon receive letters informing them of their respective nominations.
THE WEEKLY CALENDAR
Monday:
5:30pm:
Worship
Planning
Tuesday:
9:30am:
Ladies
Bible Study
Wednesday:
7:00pm:
Ash
Wednesday Service
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
3:15pm:
GEMS
Fun Night
GEMS Fun Night!
The Prinsburg GEMS
Club Fun Night will take place at the Kilowatt Community Center in Granite
Falls on Friday, February 24. The GEMS Counselors will pick up the girls
from CMCS at 3:15 PM. Girls should bring appropriate swim and gym wear. No
money is needed. Snacks and supper will be provided. At 7:00 PM we’ll head back
to Prinsburg. If you prefer to pick your daughter up from the Kilowatt Community
Center, please let Lenae know. Otherwise, please meet us at Unity CRC around
7:30 PM or so. See you then!
2012 Area-Wide
Pinewood Derby
The 2012 Area-Wide
Pinewood Derby will be Wednesday, February 29 at the CMCS High School Gym in
Prinsburg! A free-will donation BBQ
dinner will be served from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Registration for the races will be open at 6:00 p.m. with the green
flag dropping at 7:00 p.m. Concessions will also be served during the
race. All cars must be registered, so
Cadets need to be there on time and in uniform! Come and enjoy great food and
exciting races while supporting our local Cadet clubs!
Our Unity Church
Family
~ We express our
love and sympathy to Dave and Betty Ammermann and family in the passing of
Betty’s uncle, Harley Berghuis, of Clara City. His funeral was held
yesterday.
~ Thresa B. transitioned
from the Care Center to her new home at C. C. Estates this past week. The
healing has gone well from the surgery. Please remember her in your
prayers as settles into her new home.
~ We want to thank
everyone for their prayers, cards, food & flowers in the passing of our
mother and grandmother. Thank you again. The family of Lucille Bonnema
~ KIDS: We
love you! Could we have your help please? Coffee is HOT and running
in the coffee area could end up hurting you or someone else if that coffee is
spilled. Please WALK through the fellowship area so that everyone stays
safe. SHARING is important too! Please take just ONE food item from
the counter so that everyone can enjoy the goodies. Family and friends –
let’s help each other in these areas to keep our coffee time safe and enjoyable
for everyone! Respectful parental guidance throughout the fellowship hall by
everyone helps everyone! Thank You
~ Are you willing to
write a letter to a lonely inmate? A young man with ties to our church who is
in prison would welcome a few lines of encouragement. If you feel led to drop
him a note, contact Kerry or Marly B for information and address.
COUNCIL NOTES
~ Sarah B. met with
the Admin Team and resigned from the Missions Team. We are indeed thankful for
the many years of enthusiastic leadership that Sarah provided for this aspect
of our church ministry! If there is anyone who would be willing to serve on the
Missions Team, please contact a member of the Admin Team.
~ It was reported
that the indebtedness on the building project was reduced from $1,013,000 to
$885,000 with the semi-annual payment made last month. A Building Fund Drive is
presently underway with the goal of securing commitments to pay off the balance
of our indebtedness over the next five years.
~ Pastor Steve and
Chad Hoekstra have been appointed delegates to Classis Lake Superior which will
meet March 5 & 6 at the Calvary CRC in Edina. Pastor Jeff Fischer
prepared two overtures regarding changes to the Article 17 problem he faced
when he wanted to leave pastoral ministry to study for his doctorate.
These overtures will be presented at this meeting of Classis by Unity CRC with
the intent that Classis will choose one of the overtures to forward to Synod.
~ A motion carried
to create a non-paid staff position of General Treasurer to oversee the
bookkeeping of the church and submit monthly reports to the Admin Team.
The reason for this change is to provide more continuity to the position and
not have frequent changes with the election of new office-bearers.
~ A “Safe Church
Team” has again been organized with Taryn B., Beth H, Bev M, Tim F and Matt H
as members. Pastor Jeff V has been asked to train this team.
Community
Announcements
Open House Baby
Shower
Open House Baby
shower honoring, Samuel Edward, infant son of Ken and Natalie. Saturday,
February 25th, 9:30-11:30, at the Prinsburg 1st CRC Fellowship Hall. They
are registered at Target.
CMCS Mission Trip
Items Needed
Do you have extra
sample size bottles of shampoo/cream rinse, soap, toothpaste, hand lotion,
mouthwash, etc? The New York Mission trip group would like to put together
hygiene packets for the homeless. Other products we could use are wash clothes,
combs/brushes, tooth brushes, hand sanitizer. Please drop them off at CMCS or
your church secretary. We would like them before or by March 26th. Thank
you! If you have questions, please call Sue De Groot.
Potato Supper
The Prinsburg 1st
CRC Youth Group will be hosting a potato supper on Wednesday, February 22
from 5:00-7:00 pm in the First CRC basement. The menu includes baked
potatoes with all the toppings, dinner rolls, and ice cream for dessert
(take-out is available). A free-will donation will be taken to help fund the
youth group summer service project in Platte, SD. Hope to see you there!
Advance Notice
Emden Christian
Reformed Church in Renville will be hosting a “good ol’ fashioned” Hymn Sing on
Sunday evening, March 4, at 6:00 P.M. Paul Knapper, Gar Jasper, Randy Groen, and Ned
Wohlman will lead the program.
DAD’S Belgian Waffle
Fundraiser
Roseland Reformed
Church is hosting an all you can eat Dad’s Belgian Waffle feed fundraiser on Monday,
March 5th with serving from 4:30pm - 7:00pm. There will be a free-will
offering. Everyone is welcome!
Willmar Area Food
Shelf Concert
The Woodbury Chorus
& Orchestra present: “How Can I Keep from Singing Songs of the American
Spirit”. This Choral and Orchestral concert of American Music will include
Patriotic, Folk, Spiritual, Pop, Broadway and music by contemporary composers..
You are invited to come on Sunday, March 25, 2012, 4:00 p.m. at Vinje
Lutheran Church (1101 Willmar Ave SW, Willmar, MN). Admission is free, no
tickets required! 100% of the proceeds of a free will offering will benefit the
Willmar Area Food Shelf.
Ready For a Day Out?
Ardy Z is planning a
trip to the Plymouth Playhouse to see “A Mighty Fortress” (Church Basement
Ladies) on Wednesday, April 25, an afternoon performance. If you are
interested call Marilyn Soon so arrangements can be made. The cost of the day
trip will be aprox. $55.00 per person, including ticket, bus and lunch. All
ages are welcome.
Calling all Youth
entering 7th grade - College age in the fall!~
Would you like to
participate in a very unique camp experience this summer? Do you love singing,
acting, fantastic choreography, fun and faith? Then look no further - this camp
is for you! Join us at Bethany Reformed Church as we prepare and perform the
high energy youth musical, "Keepin' It Real," June 11-17.
Contact Pam Knapper if you are interested in receiving more information
From Back to God
Ministries International
GROUNDWORK - The
Cross as Our Example: How do you react when someone treats you wrong—a friend
betrays you, or you're accused unfairly of something you didn't do? Even when
it's a little thing, like getting cut off on the highway, how do you react? Do
you get mad? Do you scream and curse? Do you try to get even? Jesus shows us a
better way. Join the Feb. 26 Groundwork conversation based on 1 Peter 2:21-25.
Find a local radio station or listen online at www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER - Forget
About It: Liz
is struggling with remembering every mean thing Spike has ever done to him.
Help Liz discover the meaning of “love keeps no record of wrongs” on this
week’s Kids Corner. Check out www.kidscorner.net for devotions, puzzles and
more of Liz’s adventures.
From ServiceLink
VOLUNTEER WITH THE
CRC! -
Be part of the transformation of lives and communities worldwide by
volunteering with World Missions as a Special Needs Assistant in Nicaragua or a
Church Planting Consultant in the Dominican Republic, or by volunteering with
CRWRC as an English Language Facilitator in Cambodia or an Organization
Development Coordinator in Mozambique. For information on these or any other
volunteer opportunity, please visit www.crcna.org/servicelink or contact us at
volunteer@crcna.org
From Calvin Seminary
CALVIN SEMINARY
EVENT - Please
join us for a Free Event: “How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens - A
Guide to Christ-Focused Reading of Scripture”. Discover how individuals and
churches can learn to read every book of the Bible as pointing to Christ. Written
by Michael Williams, Professor of Old Testament at Calvin Seminary. March 6, 8
p.m. EST. Watch live at www.livestream.com/Zondervan - RSVP today to get a
reminder!
May you experience
both the communion of the saints and communion with the Lord today, with His
grace and love flowing freely amongst us!
May your body, soul, mind, and strength be free to give all glory and
honor to the King of kings and Lord of lords!
Next week Sunday we
welcome the Dordt College Praise Team as they lead worship!
We remember God's ultimate gift to us in
Jesus Christ! We invite all who profess
Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior to participate with us. We come to the table not based on our
unworthiness but on Christ's worthiness as Savior! Come, remember, believe, and
celebrate! You are free in Him!
6:30pm:
GEMS;
Snack: Elise Braem and Sydney Damhof
6:30pm:
Cadets
at First CRC; Snacks: Mike Brown & Jonny Bloomquist
7:00pm:
9th
- 12th grade SRYG
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
Next
Sunday (3rd Sunday):
9:00am: Adult Sunday School
9:00am: K - 8th Sunday
School
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship
Friendship Class
Is on Monday,
February 13th at Willmar CRC. If you
are not able to be there, call Gretjen.
Our Unity Church
Family
~ Please continue to
remember in prayer Elva P. and Theresa B. as they continue to heal and recover.
~ Pastor Jim H,
uncle to Heather N, has decided not to pursue any more radiation. Please
pray for Jim, his wife Lois, and their family during this difficult time.
~ Food for Kidz 2012
is THIS SATURDAY at the Willmar Middle School. There are nearly 30
churches and organizations participating! This event has grown so fast
that the 9:00am shift is already full (nearly 300 people). There are
openings for the three remaining two-hour shifts (11-1, 1-3, 3-5) but they too
are filling fast! This is a Kid-Friendly event – consider taking some of
the kids along with you! But sign up today!! If you are unable to
participate on Saturday, you can contribute to the cost of the food items and
shipping. Nearly $43,000 is needed - just shy of $20,000 has been
raised to date. (Checks are payable to Willmar Faith at Work and can be
dropped off at church or at the door on Saturday) This is an important
community event that communicates the love of Jesus to the Somalian community
and the Somalian families enduring famine and hardship. Help make a
difference today!
Open House Baby
Shower
Open House Baby
shower honoring, Samuel Edward, infant son of Ken and Natalie S. Saturday,
February 25th, 9:30-11:30, at the Prinsburg 1st CRC Fellowship Hall. They
are registered at Target.
CMCS Mission Trip
Items Needed
Do you have extra
sample size bottles of shampoo/cream rinse, soap, toothpaste, hand lotion,
mouthwash, etc? The New York Mission trip group would like to put together
hygiene packets for the homeless. Other products we could use are wash clothes,
combs/brushes, tooth brushes, hand sanitizer. Please drop them off at CMCS or
your church secretary. We would like them before or by March 26th. Thank you!
If you have questions, please call Sue De Groot.
Butter Braids
The Juniors and
Seniors of CMCS are busy fundraising for their Mission Trip to New York. The
students and their leaders will be traveling to New York to be part of the New
York School of Urban Ministry in Queens, New York. They will be bringing a
message of hope in Jesus name to the homeless, single moms and their children,
patients in AIDS hospitals or in cerebral palsy units. Through all of this they
will be sharing their faith through NYSUM ministries. The students will be selling Butter Braids until February 14th.
Butter Braids are only available through fundraisers. If you would like the
school can put you in touch with a student. We ask that you be in prayer for this
group as they plan and prepare for this life changing trip. Thank you!
Senior Citizens
Senior Citizens will
meet Thursday, February 16, at 1:00 p.m. at the Community Center. Come
for Games and to make your own sundae. No snacks please.
Community & CRC
World News
Open House 50th
Anniversary
Please join our
family on this joyous occasion when our parents, Allen & Ruth Ann Boersma,
celebrate 50 years of marriage. Sunday, February 19, from 2 – 4 p.m. at The
Rock on 8th in Willmar.
Family Concert
The Assembly of God
Church in Willmar will be having at Family Concert on Friday, February 24; at 7:00 p.m. Alan Root will be in concert at
Assembly of God. Alan is a Christian artist from Nashville that families will
love. Tickets are $5. All ages are welcome
Potato Supper
The Prinsburg 1st
CRC Youth Group will be hosting a potato supper on Wednesday, February 22
from 5:00-7:00 pm in the First CRC basement. The menu includes baked
potatoes with all the toppings, dinner rolls, and ice cream for dessert (take-out
is available). A free-will donation will be taken to help fund the youth group
summer service project in Platte , SD. Hope to see you there!
DAD’S Belgian Waffle
Fundraiser
Roseland Reformed
Church is hosting an all you can eat Dad’s Belgian Waffle feed fundraiser on Monday,
March 5th with serving from 4:30pm - 7:00pm. There will be a free-will
offering. Everyone is welcome!
Churches Praying for
Churches
As churches in
Classis Lake Superior we are continuing to pray for each other on a regular basis.
Please pray for the following two churches in the month of February. You may
pray for the general good health of these churches. There are also some
specifics listed that you may pray for as well.
-Calvary Church in
Edina has been reflecting on the nature, role, place and need for the second
(afternoon) service; we are grateful for the wholesome congregational
discussions and input given to the consistory. Pray that God may give the
elders wisdom and discernment as they give direction and leadership to
Calvary's members in regard to the second worship service. Pastor Jack Van
Marion
-The members of
Hancock Christian Reformed Church thank God that we are able to celebrate 100
years of God’s love and grace given that eight years ago we were wondering if
our church could continue because of our small size and limited resources, but
in his sustaining grace he provided us with a pastor who has diligently and
faithfully served us, and new individuals and families to the point where this
year we can celebrate not just by reflecting on the past but can look forward
to beginning a second century with optimism and faith in God’s ongoing
provision for years to come.
Please pray for
Pastor Newhouse, our elders, deacons, and all our leaders that God would
provide all that they need to continually equip the saints in the Hancock
church to carry on God’s mission in this church and community. Please also pray
for us as we are in the process of planning for our church’s weekend
celebration on July 6-8. Thanks. Pastor Harrison Newhouse
From Faith Alive
NEW FROM FAITH ALIVE
-
Now available, "Forty: Devotions for Lent" is a daily devotional that
explores the biblical motif of “forty” and shows how it points to Jesus. Ideal
for personal or congregational use! Read a sample at
FaithAliveResources.org/Forty or call 1-800-333-8300 to order. Quantity discounts
are available.
From World Missions
WORLD MISSIONS - Volunteer with
CRWM in the Philippines - to promote HIV prevention through workshops in
schools, churches, and other settings. This opportunity is for six weeks this
June and July. Visit www.crwm.org/serve for more details.
From Back to God
Ministries International
GROUNDWORK - How to read the
Bible with the Church: There is an ancient way of reading and meditating upon
the Bible that just might revolutionize the way you approach scripture in your
own devotional life. Join the Feb. 19 Groundwork conversation on Psalm 119 and
find out more about it. Find a local radio station or listen online at
www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER - Love
Who? Liz’s pastor has a challenge: Go out and love an enemy. Can Liz and his
friends really love someone like the Good Samaritan did? Find out on this
week’s Kids Corner. Check out www.kidscorner.net for devotions, puzzles and
more of Liz’s adventures
From Calvin College
FESTIVAL OF FAITH
AND WRITING -
Calvin College is hosting the 2012 Festival of Faith and Writing on April
19-21. Plenary addresses—which are open to the public—will feature Gary
Schmidt, Jonathan Safran Foer, Marilynne Robinson, Shane Claiborne, and
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Tickets are available from the Calvin College Box
Office (616-526-6282). Visit www.calvin.edu/festival for more information, or
e-mail us at ffw@calvin.edu with questions.
From CRWRC
CRWRC West Africa
Drought Response: -
In the coming months, five to nine million people risk going hungry in the
Sahel, a semi-arid region in Western Africa. Erratic rainfall, drought and
insect infestations last year led to poor harvests in the area. Your financial
support will assist thousands of families who are in need! To donate, please
call 1-800-55-CRWRC, visit www.crwrc.org/donate, or mail your check marked,
“CRWRC West Africa Drought Response,” to CRWRC, 2850 Kalamazoo SE, Grand
Rapids, MI 49560-0600. Thank you!
From Sea to Sea 2013
POSITION OPENINGS - Sea To Sea 2013 -
The Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) has 3 temporary full-time
(anticipated to begin mid April, 2012 and continue through approximately
September 2013) position openings for the 2013 Sea to Sea bike tour initiative
of the RCA and CRCNA: Advancement Manager, Communications Manager and Bike Tour
Manager. These positions are home-based positions and can be located in the US
or Canada, however travel for meetings will be required. For more information
or to apply please visit www.crcna.org/jobs by March 6.
Welcome to worship
today at Unity! The Lord himself, the living God, has invited us to come to him
with all our hurts and all our joys. We
gather in this place to experience an authentic encounter with God. We pray that you would feel the love of God;
experience the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ; and be filled by the presence of
the Holy Spirit.
Valet Parking
The Service Deacons
are pleased to offer valet parking for you each Sunday. Please talk to the
Service Deacon inside the main entry to make arrangements for parking your
vehicle.
Cadet Sunday
Cadet Sunday will be
this evening during the 5:30 p.m. service at 1st CRC in Prinsburg. All cadets
and councilors must be in full uniform and meet in the church basement at 5:00
p.m. SHARP!! Refreshments will be served by the councilors immediately
following the service
THE WEEKLY CALENDAR
Monday:
5:30pm:
Worship
Planning
Tuesday:
9:30am:
Ladies
Bible Study
Wednesday:
7:00pm:
7th
- 12th grade SRYG
7:00pm:
Making
Life Work Bible Study for GEMS Counselors, Board Members & CITs – Chapters
7-8.
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
Next
Sunday (2nd Sunday):
9:00am: Adult Sunday School
9:00am: K - 8th Sunday
School
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship
Food for Kidz
Today you will find
a display in the fellowship area with more information about this unique
opportunity to join with people from over 20+ churches in this region to make a
difference in the lives of the children of Somalia. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 is the day to put on your calendar. If
you are interested in signing up to be a part of the day, please indicate so on
the signup sheet. There are 4 shifts – each shift needs 250
people. They will try to get you in the shift you are signed up for.
However, if other shifts are short of the needed help, they may ask for
volunteers to switch around to get all four filled. They will be
packaging food packets/meals to be shipped. (Samples are on the table in
the fellowship hall.) Please prayerfully consider this
opportunity. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Steve.
Our Unity Church
Family
~ We express our love
and sympathy to the Wendell Bonnema family, Cory Bonnema family, extended
family and friends of Lucille Bonnema, who passed away unexpectedly on Thursday
morning. May God grant His peace and love to all of you at this time.
~ Theresa B. had a fall on Monday
morning. She had surgery on Wednesday and is now residing at the Care Center for a couple of day of
convalescing. Pray for a complete healing and full strength to return.
~ Elva P. has been battling a
severe case of shingles over the last couple of weeks. Some healing
has occurred. It is a long painful process. Pray for a complete
healing and restored strength through this time.
~ We give thanks for
the safety and work accomplished by the teams that have returned from Haiti and
from Mississippi! Praise God for these opportunities to serve in unique
ways as hands and feet of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
~ Please be in prayer
for the New York Missions group that is preparing for their trip in early
April. As God would lead, they are in need of your financial and prayer
support. If you have any questions about the trip, please contact Bryan D.
or Perry B.
Thank You!
THANK YOU to the
Unity volunteers and staff that hosted the January Series and provided meals
each day! The setting was beautiful and the food fantastic each
day! Thank you for serving in this way! –Sincerely from the attendees of
this year’s series
Quilting
Opportunity!
Looking for 6
beginning quilters who would like to learn how to quilt and enjoy Christian
fellowship at the same time! No previous experience necessary. Experienced
quilters who wish to come and work independently are also welcome as space
permits. Please sign up on the table in the mailbox area. Variety of dates
listed, plan on at least three sessions to make a table runner. Text and
instruction on the table. Join us for fun and 'breaking the winter blahs'! If
you have any questions please contact Gina Ohden.
Community & CRC
World News
Annual Pizza Feed
The second annual
pizza feed for the baseball program will be February 10th during the Girls
Basketball game. We are raising money for field maintenance, umpires, and
gear. Come out and join us! We will start serving at 5:00. Pizza. pop ,
and a bar. Free will donation.
Butter Braids
The Juniors and
Seniors of CMCS are busy fundraising for their Mission Trip to New York. The
students and their leaders will be traveling to New York to be part of the New
York School of Urban Ministry in Queens, New York. They will be bringing a
message of hope in Jesus name to the homeless, single moms and their children,
patients in AIDS hospitals or in cerebral palsy units. Through all of this they
will be sharing their faith through NYSUM ministries. The students will be
selling Butter Braids until February 14th. Butter Braids are only available
through fundraisers. If you would like the school can put you in touch with a
student. We ask that you be in prayer for this group as they plan and prepare
for this life changing trip. Thank you!
From World Missions
HOPE EQUALS - Summer Hope Equals
Team to Israel and the West Bank: Join a team of young adults from June 11 to
July 13 to learn about peace and reconciliation in Israel and the West Bank.
Contact Mariano Avila at mavila@crcna.org for more details.
From Back to God
Ministries International
GROUNDWORK - How to read the
Hard Stories: If you are a long-time Christian, the Bible may be very familiar
and comforting to you. Perhaps it’s so familiar that it no longer surprises
you. But the Bible ought to startle us—even shock and upset us. Join the Feb.
12 Groundwork conversation on 2 Peter 3:15-18 and you'll see what we mean. Find
a local radio station or listen online at www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER - Lucky Lizards: Liz
just found $500.00 in the park, and he can’t wait to spend it! Check out what
Liz decides to do with the money on this week’s Kids Corner. Visit
www.kidscorner.net to find great Christian programs and music for kids.
From Calvin College
THE SUMMER ACADEMY
AT CALVIN -
It’s never too early to start exploring college! Calvin College offers the
opportunities for current high school students to experience college life
firsthand AND earn college credit through Calvin’s Summer Academy. Students
live on campus, take a college course, meet new friends, gain college readiness
skills, and will even earn a grant toward Calvin tuition. For more information,
and to apply, go to www.calvin.edu/go/summeracademy. Apply by March 15 to be
considered for this selective program!
Christ is exalted as
King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we have come to worship Him today! You are invited to enter into this place with
praise and thanksgiving for the great things He has done!
Love Fund Sunday
Today is the 5th
Sunday of the month. Offering will go to the Love Fund. Please prayerfully
consider what you would like to give.
6:30pm:
GEMS Girls Club, Snacks: Kayla V., Kayli R., and Madison B.
6:30pm:
Cadets,
at First CRC, Snacks: Aidan B.
7:00pm:
9th
- 12th grade SRYG
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
Next
Sunday (5th Sunday):
9:00am: Adult Sunday School
9:00am: K - 8th Sunday
School
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship
GEMS Club Photos on
Wednesday!
Please come picture
pretty in your GEMS t-shirts and blue jeans to our February 1 meeting
for club photos. Pictures will begin promptly at 6:30 PM. GEMS Bible
Lesson/Craft from 6:30 – 8:30 PM. Snacks: Kayla, Kayli, and Madison.
Cadet Sunday
Cadet Sunday will be
observed Sunday, February 5 during the 5:30 PM service at 1st CRC in Prinsburg.
All cadets and counselors must be in full uniform and meet in the church
basement at 5:00 PM SHARP!! Refreshments will be served by the counselors
immediately following the service.
Our Unity Church
Family
Our Love &
Sympathy
We express our love
and sympathy to the family, extended family, and friends of John Plowman, who
passed away on Wednesday, at the age of 101. Services were held yesterday
at the Willmar CRC.
Food for Kidz
There is a unique
opportunity coming up on Saturday, February 18. Food for Kids will
be packaging food packets for the children of Somalia at the Willmar Middle
School from 9am-4pm. The community effort involves area churches, youth,
and even members of the local Somalian community. Interested in being a
part of making a difference? Contact the church office for more
information and to express your interest in helping out. More information
will be available in the coming weeks.
SRYG Snack Schedule
Solid Rock Youth
Group is looking for volunteers willing to provide snacks and drinks for our
Wednesday night activities. If you are willing to serve our youth group in this
way please sign up today on the sign-up sheet by the bulletin board in the
fellowship area. Thank you so much for your help!
Quilting
Opportunity!
Looking for 6
beginning quilters who would like to learn how to quilt and enjoy Christian
fellowship at the same time! No previous experience necessary. Experienced
quilters who wish to come and work independently are also welcome as space
permits. Please sign up on the table in the mailbox area. Variety of dates
listed, plan on at least three sessions to make a table runner. Text and
instruction on the table. Join us for fun and 'breaking the winter blahs'! If
you have any questions please contact Gina Ohden.
Free Catered
Meal!
Solid Rock Youth are
working on a service project. We have set a goal of raising $35,000 to
give to Children of the Promise to fund one of the new baby homes. One of
the ways we are doing this is by hosting two catered meal events at the Rock on
8th. At these events you will learn lots of information about COTP, learn
about the vision for the new standard of childcare in Haiti, and be asked to
help financially support this vision. If you are interested in joining us
please speak with one of our youth and they can get you a ticket—there are a
limited number of seats. The dates are Saturday, February 4th, and
Saturday, February 11th from 6:15-8:30pm. (And for those
couples with kids, Solid Rock will be providing free childcare during the event
so you can enjoy a night out!) If you have additional questions feel free
to contact Kirk Vander Pol.
CMCS Mission Trip
A New York Mission
trip is being planned for C.M.C.S. students over Spring Break. Please come and
support them with a Belgian Waffle feed fund raising event to be held Friday,
February 3 with serving starting at 5:00pm - Prior to the Basketball game
in the CMCS cafeteria. C.M.C.S. BB boys game vs. RCW. All profits will help 30
C.M.C.S. students minister to the needy of New York City.
Cadet Tubing Outing
The Prinsburg Cadets
are going tubing at Eagle Mountain Resort in Burtrum, MN. Lift tickets and tube
rentals will be paid for all Cadets and fathers, other family members are also
invited to take advantage of the group rate. We will leave the First CRC
parking lot at 10:00 AM Saturday, February 4 and return home around 5:30
PM. All participants under age 18 must have a release form signed by a parent
to attend, the forms can be found on the resort's website
www.eaglemountainge.com and were distributed at the last Cadet meeting. Dress
appropriately for the activity, uniforms are not required. Food will not be
provided, please bring a bag lunch or lunch money. If you plan to attend please
consider if you could drive. Depending on total attendance, assistance with
travel may be needed. Please contact Nate Marcus with any questions.
CHURCHES PRAYIBNG
FOR CHURCHES
As churches in Classis
Lake Superior we are continuing to pray for each other on a regular basis.
Please pray for the following two churches in the month of January. You may
pray for the general good health of these churches. There are also some
specifics listed that you may pray for as well.
~ Rosanne Van
Marion, Classis LS Prayer Coordinator.
Please pray for
Bunde CRC:
Pray that the ladies
group that is beginning a small Bible study with plans to expand in the future
will be blessed as they start this initial step. Pray for the new Council
members that have been recently elected as they take up their work. Pray for
the entire Council (old and new members) to have enthusiasm for their work, and
a sense of calling, and discernment.
Please pray for
Crookston First CRC and for East Grand Forks:
Pastor Doug Shank
wrote: Last winter the Crookston church cancelled several services due to
weather, pray that the winter weather would allow worship for the elderly in
2012.
From Back to God
Ministries International
GROUNDWORK - Finding
Christ in the Scriptures: What is the Bible really about? Is it a handbook for
successful living? A guidebook about the way to heaven? A theology textbook, a
source for formulating doctrines? Or is it a storybook about Jesus? Join the
Feb. 5 Groundwork conversation based on Luke 24:44-49. Find a local radio
station or listen online at www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER -
Scooter"s Secret: Scooter is tired of getting no respect from his friends,
so he decides to win a go-kart competition—no matter what it takes. See if
Scooter’s plan will work on this week’s Kids Corner. Kids Corner is a member of
the HisKids.net alliance—working together to provide quality entertainment for
kids that is Christ-centered and Bible-based. Visit www.HisKids.net to find
great Christian programs and music for kids.
From Home and World
Missions
THANK YOU - God promises when
we ask, we will receive. Thank You! for asking. Thank God! for his faithful
answers. And even though this specific prayer initiative has concluded, please
continue to remember the lost, church planters, and the spiritual harvest in
your daily prayers! May God be glorified! May His Kingdom grow! A joint effort
of Home and World Missions.
Christ is exalted as
King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we have come to worship Him today! You are invited to enter into this place with
praise and thanksgiving for the great things He has done!
We would like to
extend a warm welcome to Pastor Jeff Vanderhooft! He will be leading us in our
time of worship today.
Love Fund Sunday
Next week Sunday is
the 5th Sunday of the month. Offering will go to the Love Fund. Please
prayerfully consider what you would like to give.
THE WEEKLY CALENDAR
Monday:
11:30am:
January
Series,
Speaker:
Deborah
Lew (Stories and Songs from the Broadway Stage)
5:30pm:
Worship Planning
Tuesday:
9:30am:
Ladies
Bible Study
11:30am:
January
Series
Speaker:
N.T.
Wright (How God Became King: Why we’ve All Misunderstood the Gospels)
Wednesday:
9:30am:
MOPS
at Bunde CRC
7:00pm:
7th
- 12th grade SRYG
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
Next
Sunday (5th Sunday):
9:00am: Adult Sunday School
9:00am: K - 8th Sunday
School
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship ~
Offering: Love Fund
Our Unity Church
Family
Our Love &
Sympathy
We express our love
and sympathy to Lois Cook, Elva Post, Thresa Berghuis , extended family, and
friends of Harriet Ledeboer, wife of Bud Ledeboer, who passed away unexpectedly
Monday night. Funeral services were held in Texas on Thursday. The
God of all peace grant you His shalom.
Continued Prayers
Josiah L. had
surgery this past Tuesday. He is making slow but good progress. They
are hoping and praying that he will be well enough to come home this
weekend. Please remember Chuck and Sandy and the family as they press on
through this season
Thank you
Thank you for the
prayers, cards, notes, words of encouragement and sympathy after the stroke and
passing of Dad. ~ Tom & Alnora Bruin
Wedding
Congratulations
Congratulations to
David Poppema & Sarah Eisenhuth who were united in marriage this weekend at
the Evangelical Free Church of Embarrass, MN.
Wedding
Congratulations
Congratulations to
James and Eugielene (Tulin) Nonweiler who united in marriage this weekend in the
Philippines. Plans are at this time to remain in the Philippines for the
near future
SRYG Snack Schedule
Solid Rock Youth
Group is looking for volunteers willing to provide snacks and drinks for our
Wednesday night activities. If you are willing to serve our youth group in this
way please sign up today on the sign-up sheet by the bulletin board in the
fellowship area. Thank you so much for your help!
Free Catered
Meal!
Solid Rock Youth are
working on a service project. We have set a goal of raising $35,000 to
give to Children of the Promise to fund one of the new baby homes. One of
the ways we are doing this is by hosting two catered meal events at the Rock on
8th. At these events you will learn lots of information about COTP, learn
about the vision for the new standard of childcare in Haiti, and be asked to
help financially support this vision. If you are interested in joining us
please speak with one of our youth and they can get you a ticket—there are a
limited number of seats. The dates are Saturday, February 4th, and
Saturday, February 11th from 6:15-8:30pm. (And for those
couples with kids, Solid Rock will be providing free childcare during the event
so you can enjoy a night out!) If you have additional questions feel free
to contact Kirk Vander Pol.
Quilting
Opportunity!
Looking for 6
beginning quilters who would like to learn how to quilt and enjoy Christian
fellowship at the same time! No previous experience necessary. Experienced
quilters who wish to come and work independently are also welcome as space
permits. Please sign up on the table in the mailbox area. Variety of dates
listed, plan on at least three sessions to make a table runner. Text and
instruction on the table. Join us for fun and 'breaking the winter blahs'! If
you have any questions please contact Gina Ohden.
Emden CRC Soup
Supper
You are invited to
Emden’s Soup Supper on Wednesday, January 25th. They will be serving
from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Emden CRC in Renville. The menu will be: Soup -
Vegetable Beef, Chicken Rice, Chili, Broccoli Cheese, Meat - Cheese - Crackers
- Bread - Dessert - Beverage. Free-will donation - Everyone is welcome – Take-out
available
CMCS One Act
CMCS One Act team
will be presenting their performance on Monday, January 23 at 7:00 PM in
the high school gymnasium. Admission: Adults $5, Students $2. Come on out and
enjoy a wonderful performance!
Senior Citizens
Senior Citizens will
meet Thursday, January 26, at 1:00 p.m.at the Community Center for
games. Bring a light lunch to share.
Cadet Tubing Outing
The Prinsburg Cadets
are going tubing at Eagle Mountain Resort in Burtrum, MN. Lift tickets and tube
rentals will be paid for all Cadets and fathers, other family members are also
invited to take advantage of the group rate. We will leave the First CRC
parking lot at 10:00 AM Saturday, February 4 and return home around 5:30
PM. All participants under age 18 must have a release form signed by a parent
to attend, the forms can be found on the resort's website
www.eaglemountainge.com and were distributed at the last Cadet meeting. Dress
appropriately for the activity, uniforms are not required. Food will not be
provided, please bring a bag lunch or lunch money. If you plan to attend please
consider if you could drive. Depending on total attendance, assistance with
travel may be needed. Please contact Nate Marcus with any questions.
CMCS Mission Trip
A New York Mission
trip is being planned for C.M.C.S. students over Spring Break. Please come and
support them with a Belgian Waffle feed fund raising event to be held Friday,
February 3 with serving starting at 5:00pm - Prior to the Basketball game
in the CMCS cafeteria. C.M.C.S. BB boys game vs. RCW. All profits will help 30
C.M.C.S. students minister to the needy of New York City.
Travel Opportunity
CMCS is providing an
opportunity for educational travel this summer. Scott Buteyn and Kevin
Wassenaar are leading an adult group to Washington DC from June 7-11.
Deadline for registration is February 10. For more information, contact the
school or click the DC Trip link on the school's website www.cmcschool.org.
CHURCHES PRAYIBNG
FOR CHURCHES
As churches in
Classis Lake Superior we are continuing to pray for each other on a regular
basis. Please pray for the following two churches in the month of January. You
may pray for the general good health of these churches. There are also some
specifics listed that you may pray for as well.
~ Rosanne Van
Marion, Classis LS Prayer Coordinator.
Please pray for
Bunde CRC:
Pray that the ladies
group that is beginning a small Bible study with plans to expand in the future
will be blessed as they start this initial step. Pray for the new Council members
that have been recently elected as they take up their work. Pray for the entire
Council (old and new members) to have enthusiasm for their work, and a sense of
calling, and discernment
Please pray for
Crookston First CRC and for East Grand Forks:
Pastor Doug Shank
wrote: Last winter the Crookston church cancelled several services due to
weather, pray that the winter weather would allow worship for the elderly in
2012.
KIDS CORNER - 70 x
7: Someone
has been messing with Liz’s stuff, so Liz really wants to get revenge. Help Liz
figure out what to do on this week’s Kids Corner. Then check out
www.kidscorner.net for devotions, puzzles and more of Liz’s adventures.
From Home and World
Missions
KEEP PRAYING - Continue lifting
up your hearts and voices in praise and petition to the one who “is able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at
work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen!” A joint effort of Home and
World Missions.
From CRC
Communications
MINISTRY WEBINAR - The Web is Your
Church's New Front Door: When people are looking for a church to attend, most
will check out their options online before ever walking through the door of a
church. On average, they’ll check out up to a dozen sites before visiting a
church in person. Learn about web strategies: from planning and designing to
content creation and updating. We'll talk about making your website visitor
friendly as well as useful for members. Presented by Jerod Clark, project
leader for Church Juice. Register at www.crcna.org/webinars.
From CRWRC
CRWRC East Africa
Drought Response Update: - CRWRC would like to express its sincere thankfulness
to members and churches of the CRC. Over the last few weeks, CRWRC completed
most of the food aid portion of its disaster response efforts, which provided
up to five months of urgently needed food to 25,000 families (170,000 people)
in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia. CRWRC also provided livestock feed, veterinary
care, and drinking water in Kenya. Longer-term rehabilitation and disaster
preparedness programs will continue well into 2012. Many lives have been
impacted in the short and long-term because of your generous assistance! Thank you.
Please also continue to keep these countries in your prayers. Somalia has been
plagued by conflict with Al-Shabaab, and Kenya is affected by that crisis as
well as inter-tribal conflict over land and water. Pray for peace.
From ServiceLink
VOLUNTEER ON A CRC
MINISTRY TEAM! -
The Christian Reformed Church and its ministries has a variety of team
opportunities currently available for church groups or for individuals to join
a group on their own. World Missions has summer opportunities in Asia for a VBS
team and a team for Teaching English to Adults, as well as a Prayer Mission
trip to Eastern Europe this Spring. CRWRC has work team opportunities in both
Haiti and Japan. For details on these and any other opportunities to serve with
the CRC, please visit www.crcna.org/servicelink or email us at
volunteer@crcna.org
CRWRC HIV/AIDS
DISCOVERY TOUR. -
YOU are invited to join a small group of people in a LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE
to witness the work and ministry of CRWRC in Kenya and Uganda and see the
amazing ways that God is working in the lives of those living with HIV/Aids.
You’ll experience first-hand what CRWRC is doing to stop the spread of AIDS,
and connect with people, families, and communities who are eager to share their
experiences with you. The result? You’ll discover hope—and be encouraged to
take action on AIDS in your own community and around the world. Tour dates are
April 15 - 29, with the application deadline of Feb. 1. Is God tugging at your
heart on this one? Then check out further details at www.crcna.org/servicelink
or email volunteer@crcna.org.
It is with joy and gladness that we enter
the house of the Lord. We bring praise
and thanksgiving for the truly amazing grace that God has shown us and all his
people around the world. We celebrate
the goodness of the King who has abundantly poured out his love to us.
Next week Sunday, Lord willing, we welcome
to the pulpit Rev. Jeff Vanderhooft. Pastor Steve & Ang will be out
of town next weekend.
January Series continues all this
week! From current events to cultural trends to worldwide endeavors, each
day brings a new and sometimes challenging perspective to life and
purpose. Come be inspired each day from 11:30am-12:30pm with the live web
broadcast from Calvin College. Each day be treated to a great free
lite lunch following the presentation. Hope to see you this week!
THE WEEKLY CALENDAR
Monday:
No
Worship Planning this week!
11:30am:
January
Series,
Speaker:
Adam
Taylor (Mobilizing Hope: faith Inspired Activism for a Post-Civil Rights
Generation)
Speaker:
David
Gergen (The 2012 Elections: Issues and Answers)
6:30pm:
GEMS
at Unity CRC, Snacks: Bailey Scott and Regan, Autumn, and Carlie Swart
6:30pm:
Cadets
at First CRC
7:00pm:
9th
- 12th grade SRYG
Thursday:
11:30am:
January
Series
Speaker: Reza Aslan (The
Future of the Middle East)
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
11:30am:
January
Series
Speaker:
Ralph
Edmund (Real Solutions for Haiti’s Future)
Next
Sunday (4th Sunday):
9:00am: Adult Sunday School
9:00am: K - 8th Sunday
School
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship
Our Unity Church
Family
Upcoming Wedding
Congratulations
Congratulations to
David Poppema & Sarah Eisenhuth who will be united in marriage on Saturday,
January 21st.
SRYG Snack Schedule
Solid Rock Youth
Group is looking for volunteers willing to provide snacks and drinks for our
Wednesday night activities. If you are willing to serve our youth group in this
way please sign up today on the signup sheet by the bulletin board in the
fellowship area. Thank you so much for your help!
Free Catered
Meal!
Solid Rock Youth are
working on a service project. We have set a goal of raising $35,000 to
give to Children of the Promise to fund one of the new baby homes. One of
the ways we are doing this is by hosting two catered meal events at the Rock on
8th. At these events you will learn lots of information about COTP, learn
about the vision for the new standard of childcare in Haiti, and be asked to
help financially support this vision. If you are interested in joining us
please speak with one of our youth and they can get you a ticket—there are a
limited number of seats. The dates are Saturday, February 4th, and
Saturday, February 11th from 6:15-8:30pm. (And for those
couples with kids, Solid Rock will be providing free childcare during the event
so you can enjoy a night out!) If you have additional questions feel free
to contact Kirk Vander Pol.
Lost & Found
Please take the time
to check the lost and found for items you might be missing. Anything left in
the lost and found on January 15th will be donated to the New 2 You Thrift
store. The lost and found basket is located in the coat hanging area. Thank
you!
CMCS One Act
CMCS One Act team
will be presenting their performance on Monday, January 23 at 7:00 PM in
the high school gymnasium. Admission: Adults $5, Students $2. Come on out and
enjoy a wonderful performance!
Emden CRC Soup
Supper
You are invited to
Emden’s Soup Supper on Wednesday, January 25th. They will be serving
from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Emden CRC in Renville. The menu will be: Soup -
Vegetable Beef, Chicken Rice, Chili, Broccoli Cheese, and Meat - Cheese -
Crackers - Bread - Dessert - Beverage. Free-will donation - Everyone is welcome
- Takeout available
Travel Opportunity
CMCS is providing an
opportunity for educational travel this summer. Scott Buteyn and Kevin
Wassenaar are leading an adult group to Washington DC from June 7-11.
Deadline for registration is February 10. For more information, contact the
school or click the DC Trip link on the school's website www.cmcschool.org.
CRC World News
From CRC Communications
Ministry Webinars - Too busy to attend
a training event? Join others across the CRC for "Webinar Wednesdays"
- one-hour, live workshops you can attend from your home, office, or church.
All you need is a computer. Get the full schedule and free registration at:
www.crcna.org/webinars
From Back to God Ministries International
GROUNDWORK - Love: Turn on almost any
music radio station and you’ll likely hear a song about love within a matter of
minutes. But if you open the newspaper or read your favorite online news site,
you’ll likely need to search a few pages of stories before you read about love.
So how much is love really reflected in our culture? And is it the same love
the Bible describes? The January 22nd Groundwork discussion, based on 1
Corinthians 13, focuses on the virtue of love. Find a local radio station or
listen online at www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER - DARE YA Have you
ever been dared to do something you knew was wrong? Join Liz as he tries to
figure out how not to give in to peer pressure on this week’s Kids Corner. Then
contact Kids Corner at Box 506, Worth IL 60482 or kids@kidscorner.net for your
very own Bible study.
From Home and World Missions
Moved to Compassion - The Scripture
tells us Jesus was moved to compassion for the crowd - for those who were
harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd. He still is. We live among
people who live “without a shepherd.” Continue to pray Jesus’ Prayer Request:
“Lord of Harvest, send workers out into your harvest field! A joint effort of
Home and World Missions.
From Faith Alive
DEVOTIONS FOR LENT - Lent begins on
Wednesday, February 22. Engage your heart and mind this Lenten season with
"Forty: Devotions for Lent," a daily devotional that explores the
biblical motif of “forty” and shows how it points to Jesus. Read a sample at
FaithAliveResources.org/Forty or call 1-800-333-8300 to order. Quantity
discounts are available.
From CRWRC
CRWRC - Pray for Peace in Dadaab
Refugee Camp, Kenya: In order to prevent violence against women (as they are
often attacked when they leave Dadaab camp to collect firewood), CRWRC
implemented an improved Stove Project to reduce firewood needs. But due to
increasing conflict at the nearby Kenya-Somalia border (and within Dadaab
itself) the UN has limited humanitarian activities, and CRWRC was forced to
halt operations. Please pray that God will bring security to the region and
peace for people in Dadaab.
We pray that today
as you worship you will share deeply in the love relationship that God feels
for you! This is the day that the Lord
has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!
Today we celebrate Communion!
We remember God's ultimate gift to us in
Jesus Christ! We invite all who profess
Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior to participate with us. We come to the table not based on our unworthiness
but on Christ's worthiness as Savior! Come, remember, believe, and celebrate!
You are free in Him!
THE WEEKLY CALENDAR
Monday:
11:30am:
January
Series, Speaker: Eric Metaxas
6:00pm:
Worship
Planning
Tuesday:
9:30am:
Ladies
Bible Study
11:30am:
January
Series, Speaker: Pedro Noguera
Wednesday:
9:30am:
MOPS
at Bunde CRC
11:30am:
January
Series, Speaker: Gabe Lyons
7:00pm:
7th
- 12th grade SRYG
7:00pm:
Making
Life Work Bible Study for GEMS Counselors & CITs – Chapters 5-6. at Sara’s
home
Thursday:
11:30am:
January
Series, Speaker: Michael Gerson
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
11:30am:
January
Series, Speaker: Jennifer Pharr Davis
Next
Sunday (3rd Sunday):
9:00am: Adult Sunday School
9:00am: K - 8th Sunday
School
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship
Mark Your Calendars
January Series
Join us each day at
11:30am for the January Series. Calvin
College presents a Live Simulcast, fifteen days of a free liberal arts
education. There are different speakers each day, with a light lunch to follow.
Everyone is invited!
Our Unity Church Family
Thank You
Thank you for the
numerous gifts and words of encouragement this past October (pastor
appreciation) and now during the Christmas season. It is wonderful to be
part of a supportive body of believers—thank you. Kirk, Christina, Noah,
Elijah, (Natalie & Rose)
Thank You
Thank you
friends/family at Unity for helping equip me with a fresh set of wheels. I am
so blessed and grateful to be supported by such a caring and giving community.
You have helped meet so many of my needs over the years and in doing so have
helped free me up to focus on the needs of the LCO community. I am honored and
count it a privilege to be a steward of a 2005 Ranger with only 50,000 miles. I
look forward to putting this more capable tool to work as we continue to share
and live out the gospel with the people of Lac Courte Oreilles. Miigwetch! Your partner in Christ, Bob
Budget Update
Praise God! We
were able to get caught up at the half year point. At this point, the
line of credit is paid off with $168 to spare. Thank you to all of you
who gave sacrificially this Christmas season so that we can continue to fund
God’s work through our church.
Lost & Found
Please take the time
to check the lost and found for items you might be missing. Anything left in
the lost and found on January 15th will be donated to the New 2 You Thrift
store. The lost and found basket is located in the coat hanging area. Thank
you!
Emden CRC Soup
Supper
You are invited to
Emden’s Soup Supper on Wednesday, January 25th. They will be serving
from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Emden CRC in Renville. The menu will be: Soup -
Vegetable Beef, Chicken Rice, Chili, Broccoli Cheese, Meat - Cheese - Crackers
- Bread - Dessert - Beverage. Free-will donation - Everyone is welcome - Take
out available
Travel Opportunity
CMCS is providing an
opportunity for educational travel this summer. Scott Buteyn and Kevin
Wassenaar are leading an adult group to Washington DC from June 7-11.
Deadline for registration is February 10. For more information, contact the
school or click the DC Trip link on the school's website www.cmcschool.org.
Easter Cantata
Invitation
The First Reformed
Church in Willmar would like to invite you to join them in singing for an
Easter Cantata entitled "In The Presence of Jehovah" to be performed
on Sunday April 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the First Reformed Church.
Practices will be on Thursday evenings at 7:00 p.m. If you have any
questions, please call Becky Lippert.
CRC World News
From World Missions
Experience Israel and the West Bank - Join a Christian
Reformed World Missions’ Hope Equals trip to Israel and the West Bank from June
11 to July 13. The team will meet with leaders involved in peace and
reconciliation efforts, hear first-person stories from both sides, tour
important places and much more. For more information or to apply, visit
www.hopeequals.org.
From CRC Communications
Ministry Webinars - Too busy to attend
a training event? Join others across the CRC for "Webinar Wednesdays"
- one-hour, live workshops you can attend from your home, office, or church.
All you need is a computer. Get the full schedule and free registration at:
www.crcna.org/webinars
From Back to God Ministries
International
GROUNDWORK - Hope: Hope seems
to be in short supply today. The world is unstable, with terrorism and war
looming large. And many people today experience family problems, health issues,
money challenges. Ultimately, can we experience any kind of real personal hope
in the face of inevitable death? Join the Jan. 15 Groundwork conversation based
on Romans 5 and 15. Find a local radio station or listen online at
www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER - The Scales of a
Cheat: Liz has a major problem. Should he cheat to get the “A” he wants so
much? Find out on this week’s Kids Corner, and then check out
www.kidscorner.net for devotions, puzzles and more of Liz’s adventures.
From Home and World Missions
Come to the Light - As the church
enters the Epiphany season, we are reminded how the “light of the world” came
to the Gentiles – to you and to me. There remain millions who have not yet
heard the Good News of Jesus. Your prayers this week to the Lord of the Harvest
will raise up workers so they might hear the Good News. A joint effort of Home
and World Missions.
From Calvin Seminary
CALVIN SEMINARY - You are invited to
attend the 25th annual Calvin Symposium on Worship, Jan. 26 - 28, at Calvin
College and Calvin Theological Seminary. This year's theme is "The Psalms:
When Life is Prayer." Excellent rates for students and groups from
churches. All worship services are free and open to the public, including the
Friday night Psalmfest, hosted by Martin Tel, co-editor of the brand new Psalms
for All Seasons: A Complete Psalter for Worship (7:30 p.m. in the Covenant Fine
Arts Center). See http://worship.calvin.edu for complete information.
From CRWRC
CRWRC Marks Second Anniversary of Haiti
Earthquake: -
CRWRC would like to express its deep gratitude to CRC churches and donors for
enabling it to implement such a major and multi-faceted response to the January
12, 2010 Haiti earthquake. CRWRC initially distributed tarps, emergency food
and hygiene supplies and carried out psycho-social counseling, then moved on to
constructing wood-framed houses, latrines and wells, and is now also
implementing a livelihood restoration project. CRWRC has constructed 2,600
earthquake-resistant houses so far, and will reach its goal of 3,150 homes by
June 2012. Thank you for enabling us to show Christ’s love to so many of His
people in Haiti!
Happy New Year and
welcome to everyone this morning! We are glad for your presence
here with us this morning and look forward to worshipping together with you!
A special welcome
(back) to Mike Pluimer and family as they worship with us this morning and as
Mike brings the word! Thank you so much for serving among us today!
Due to the holiday,
the church office will be CLOSED tomorrow, Monday, January 2.
6:30pm:
GEMS
at Unity ; Snacks: Elle Plowman & Elli Stoel
6:30pm:
Cadets
at First CRC
7:00pm:
9th
- 12th grade SRYG
Thursday:
11:30am:
January
Series; Speaker: John Varineau
Friday:
6:45am:
Men’s
Bible Study
11:30am:
January
Series; Speaker: Edith Mirante
Next
Sunday (2nd Sunday):
9:00am: Adult Sunday School
9:00am: K - 8th Sunday
School
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship
Mark Your Calenders
Men’s Bible Study
resumes this coming Friday morning at 6:45-7:30am. This is open to all
men high school age and up –both from the church and community. We are
currently working through Ecclesiastes and invite you to join us this Friday!
Our Unity Church
Family
A sincere Thank You
to our Decorating Team for all their hard work throughout the holidays bringing
out the beauty of our facility and adding to the brightness and joy of our
celebrations!
JANUARY
SERIES is returning to Unity in… you guessed it… January!
This live,
world-renown, award-winning lecture series will be beamed live via the web into
our church each weekday, January 4-24, starting promptly
at 11:30am and ending by 12:30pm. Make plans to join us
for your noon hour breaks in a warm, inviting setting. A lite lunch is
being planned for each day following the lecture to encourage fellowship and
conversation about the series. Please invite your friends and neighbors
to this great series! The series and lunch are free. Watch for
posters and brochures this week or log onto the internet
at www.calvin.edu/january. A link will also be available on our
website.
Lost & Found
Please take the time
to check the lost and found for items you might be missing. Anything left in
the lost and found on January 15th will be donated to the New 2 You Thrift
store. The lost and found basket is located in the coat hanging area. Thank
you!
Cadet Fun Night
All Cadets and
fathers are invited to the 2011 Cadet Fun Night! We will meet in the CMCS
Elementary gym on Wednesday, January 4, at 6:30 p.m. for indoor
games and pizza. Uniforms and books are NOT required. We will
conclude the evening by 8:30. If you have any questions, please contact
Nate Marcus.
From CRWRC
Thank you for your
Christmas Gift! -
In 2012, your Christmas Day gift to CRWRC is making a real difference among
those who live daily with poverty, disease, and oppression. CRWRC can bring
help and hope to people in need around the world because you gave. Thank you
for generously sharing God’s great work of love in the world through your
tithes and offerings last week. Happy New Year!
From Back to God Ministries
International
GROUNDWORK - Faith: “Have Faith.” “Don’t
lose faith.” We often use phrases like these to comfort and encourage one
another. But what exactly IS faith and how do we get it? Join the January 8th
Groundwork conversation based on Hebrews 11. Find a local radio station or
listen online at www.GroundworkOnline.com.
KIDS CORNER -
Attitude of Gratitude: Do you have an attitude of gratitude? Celebrate being
thankful on this week’s Kids Corner. Kids Corner is a member of the HisKids.net
alliance—working together to provide quality entertainment for kids that is
Christ-centered and Bible-based. Visit www.HisKids.net to find great Christian
programs and music for kids.
From Home and World
Missions
A New Year - Join in praying that this
year – 2012 – may be a year of abundant harvest. Use the book mark - available
today – as we respond to “Jesus’ Prayer Request” to “ask the Lord of the
Harvest to send forth workers.” A joint effort of Home and World Missions.
Welcome to Unity on
this Christmas morning! May the joy of
your Savior fill your heart to overflowing as you come and worship the newborn
King!
THE WEEKLY
CALENDAR
Monday:
6:00pm:
Worship
Planning
Wednesday:
7:00pm:
7th
- 12th grade SRYG (Lock In)
Friday:
No
Men’s Bible Study
Next
Sunday (1st Sunday): New Year’s Day
NO Sunday School or
Children’s Church!
9:40am: Elders Prayer Time
10:00am: Morning Worship
~ Communion ~
Mark Your Calenders
JANUARY SERIES is
returning to
Unity in… you
guessed it… January!
This live, world-renown, award-winning
lecture series will be beamed live via the web into our church each
weekday, January 4-24, starting promptly at 11:30am and
ending by 12:30pm. Make plans to join us for your noon hour breaks
in a warm, inviting setting. A lite lunch is being planned for each day
following the lecture to encourage fellowship and conversation about the
series. Please invite your friends and neighbors to this great
series! The series and lunch are free. Watch for posters and
brochures this week or log onto the internet
at www.calvin.edu/january. A link will also be available on our
website
Our Unity Church
Family
THANK YOU to the
teachers, music leaders, set-builders, care groups that served – everyone that
made our Christmas Program celebration last Sunday a tremendous blessing to all
who came! A big THANK YOU to the kids who did a FANTASTIC job! You
blessed us!
“Thank you from the bottom
of our hearts for all the expressions of kindness you have shown our family at
this time of year and all throughout the year! We absolutely enjoy
ministering with you in this community and area for the sake of the gospel of
Jesus Christ! May God continue grant His favor and blessing on all of you
in this season and in the year to come!” With love, in Christ, Pastor Steve
& Ang Zwart – Zach, Abby, Aaron, Allie, Skyler, Seth, and Sam
REMINDER: All
gifts that you wish to give to Unity for calendar year 2011 must be dated,
sealed, sent or dropped off by, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31. Next
Sunday’s offering, on January 1, will be counted as 2012 giving.
Unity Offices will
be CLOSED on Monday, December 26 and Monday, January 2, in observance of the
holidays. Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Budget Update:
Budgeted Giving:
$142,285
Actual Giving:
$138,313
YTD Budgeted Giving
Difference: $3,972
December 4
offering: $5,617
December 11
offering: $3,721
December 18
offering: $14,320
Budget: $6,126
weekly for General Fund (based on 4 Sundays/month giving schedule)
(Reminder:
5th Sundays are Love Fund offerings)
Giving Needed by
December 31st to meet budget: $8,715
Furniture Need
Solid Rock thanks all those
who responded to our previous announcement and donated couches, chairs, and
love seats! We still could use some dining room tables (with or
without chairs) that can seat 6-8 people around them for games and eating and
a few area rugs (5x8 or larger). Contact Kirk with any questions—and
yes, we can come pick it up if you’d like. Thanks again for all your
support!
