| In May every year it often feels like we are getting closer and closer to the “finish line” in several ways. School is nearing summer break, students are getting close to graduation at all levels, and we will celebrate not only graduates but those 5th grade students and their mentors that have completed our mentoring program in a few weeks. Most of our classes are nearing completion for a summer break as well, and both Tena and Katelyn are preparing to direct camps and VBS at the beginning of the summer. The finish line is near, in many ways! As we approach that line, the stress and busyness of May can often overwhelm us and result in us not showing up as our best selves. I’m convinced this is part of why Jesus’ response to the question of “what is the greatest commandment?” is so critical for us: when we are overwhelmed, stressed, tired, or just ready to be done, having a simple thing on which to be singularly focused can help to re-center us on Jesus and the Way. In Luke’s gospel (Luke 10:27), it’s actually an expert in the law that answers his own question with the most succinct version of this that we have: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and your neighbor as yourself. In the hurry and distractions around us, repeating this phrase throughout the day might help us to respond to God and others with love when the temptation is to do otherwise. I know that I need this. I pray that it is helpful for you, too. Blessings, everyone! Bobby Kirkpatrick |
| Student Pastor Candidate Meet and Greet |
| This Sunday, May 11th, join us at 4:00 pm in Friends Center (gym building) where we hope as many parents and students as possible will come to meet, greet, and listen to Luke. If you aren’t a parent or student but would still like to come and participate, you’re encouraged to attend as well. |
| Celebration Sunday |
| You are invited to join us in the Coffee Cafe at 9:00 am before the worship service to celebrate with our graduating high school seniors and with the 5th graders and their mentors in recognition of completing their Making Disciples course. If you are a graduating HS senior, contact Katelyn Sanders for details. Making Disciples mentees and mentors should RSVP to Tena Roher. We look forward to celebrating with you! |
| Cleaning Care Drive |
| In support of our neighbors at Mary Queen Catholic Church, we are hosting a Cleaning Care Drive to replenish frequently requested supplies missing from their food pantry that serves those in need in our community. Collection bins will be available in the foyer and office for the next several weeks. Contact the church office or Carter Powell for more information. |
| Cafe Connections |
| Starting June 1st, join us in the Coffee Cafe for Cafe Connections at 9:00 AM before the worship service on Sundays. This is a time for all ages to gather, eat some donuts, drink some coffee, explore different topics through conversation, and get to know someone new. Leading up to our Summer Schedule note these changes in our Sunday School Hour: May 11 | Final Donuts and Discussions in Friends Center at 9:00 AM May 18 | Celebration Sunday in the Coffee Cafe honoring Graduating Seniors and Making Disciples. We hope you will join us in celebration with a light breakfast. May 25 | No Donuts and Discussions at 9:00 AM |
| Children’s Corner |
| Summer: Coming Soon! Join us on Tuesdays this Summer for Friends Summer Outings! Details on fun activities coming soon! |
| Student Ministries Update |
| Attention Graduates |
| Join us May 18th for Senior Sunday! A light breakfast will be served at 9:00 am in the Coffee Cafe. Parents of seniors let us know you will be joining us at breakfast and if you plan to decorate a table with photos and mementos. Senior Table Sign Up If you have a graduating high school or college senior, we would like to recognize them. Please use the button below to fill out the Graduate Information form by May 14th to have your graduate recognized. Graduate Information |
| Camp Quaker Haven |
| The camp registration deadline is one WEEK away! If you plan on joining us at CQH this summer, please use the registration button below to access camp information and registration instructions. If you have already registered for camp, please note that Final payments are due May 21st. We hope to see you there! CQH DatesHS Camp Dates: June 4th – 9thJH Camp Dates: June 9th -14th |
| Click Here for Registration |
| Family Promise |
| Our next Family Promise Host Week is May 18th-25th. |
| There are many opportunities available to serve such as: making and joining our guests for a meal one evening, serving as overnight hosts, or helping with setup and tear-down on Sundays. If you are interested in volunteering with this ministry, use the button below to sign-up or contact Beth Skeeter or Desiree Trevino for more information. |
| Serve with Family Promise |
| Mother’s Day Photo Booth |
| Women’s Ministry will have a photo booth for families setup in the coffee cafe before and after church on May 11th. Happy Mother’s Day! |
