Dear Friends,

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. 1 Corinthians 12: 4-6

As I have continued to settle into my new position, I have been blessed with so many of our church family coming alongside me to volunteer and help. On Sunday mornings I have several people helping teach at Sunday School and Children’s Church. On Thursday afternoons I have a group of women who faithfully come to serve 120 excited fifth-graders snacks, and a great group of leaders who help facilitate the activities. On Friday mornings Grace Kirkpatrick helps with Gym Kids. In addition to these, I’ve also had different people offer to prepare lesson plans and organize back-to-school gifts, donate items, or financially support Children’s Ministry. I have been both overwhelmed and in awe of how the Lord has provided and how the church family has been so generous and helpful.

When I began praying about Sunday School and Children’s Church, I was hoping to gather at least 12 volunteers…only to be surprised that 21 agreed to help! The same has been true each time I have needed assistance with an activity or event. And what has been even more surprising is that those volunteers do not overlap. Each different person or group is using their gifts and talents to bring about God’s kingdom! It is such a beautiful picture of the family of Christ coming together to love and serve.

One of those wonderful gifts is Michelle Hancock, who graciously agreed to donate her gift of painting. She was able to hear my vision for redoing the classrooms in the Friends Center and making that come to fruition. Each room has its own unique artwork, transforming the space into a magical and inspiring environment for the kids to come learn more about who Christ is and how He works in their lives. If you have an opportunity, please stop by to see her amazing artwork; it is breathtaking!

Moving forward, we now have the Fall Festival coming up on October 29th. At first, I was apprehensive about trying to take on such a large feat, but the Lord is already showing His faithfulness and provision. I cannot wait to see how He moves, bringing new people onto our campus as well as building relationships in our church family as we spend an evening together having fun and celebrating. Thank you for continuing to pray and provide for the Children’s Ministry. I am beyond grateful for your support in helping bring about things that have eternal value.

Blessings on all of you!

Tena

Tweens and Gym Kids Resume This Week.

We hope you enjoyed the trimmed-down schedule thanks to the fall break. We look forward to seeing everyone again this week on normal days and times.

Missions Spaghetti Lunch

Missions Spaghetti Lunch is this Sunday, October 22 immediately following the service. Tickets for a plate are $15 and are on sale now. Buy tickets here or purchase at the door. All proceeds will be used to provide support for our missionary families.  Contact Grace Kirkpatrick or the church office for more details.

Fall Festival

Fall Festival is back! Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 29 from 5-7 PM as we host a fun evening of old-school Friends Fall Festival activities, snow cones, hot dogs, trunk-or-treating, and so much more! There is no cost to attend the festival, but donations to the Shower Ministry are welcome at the door. Feel encouraged to invite your friends and neighbors. Contact Tena Roher if you would like to volunteer or help sponsor this event. Be praying for the ways this event may be a blessing to our church families and community.

Shower Ministry Donations

Experiencing homelessness is difficult and feels hopeless. We appreciate your continued support of the Shower Ministry for the Homeless. One of our number one needs is men’s pants and shorts. Other items that are in high demand are men’s belts, hats, shoes, men’s shirts, and personal-sized toiletries. As we move into cooler months hoodies, coats, sleeping bags, blankets, gloves, etc. are especially appreciated. If you have new or used items to donate, please drop them off at the breezeway outside the Education Building. Contact the church office with questions or if you need assistance in making a donation.

Kids Night Out

Student Ministries will be hosting two Kids Night Out events for our church members and regular attendees. The first KNO event will take place on November 11 from 5:00-8:00 PM. KNO is a fun time for kids to participate in crafts, play games, and enjoy stories and a movie while their parents can enjoy some time off! The cost is $25 per child for children ages 12 months – 5th grade. For families with 4 or more children, the cost of this event will be capped at $75/family. Pre-registration is required, and families can register by following the link. Registration closes on November 5.

KNO is not only a fun time for kids but is also serving as a fundraiser that will help reduce travel costs associated with events such as Summit, Spring Connection, and Camp Quaker Haven for our student ministries. If you feel led to sponsor this event, to volunteer, or if you have questions, please reach out to Katelyn Sanders.

Women’s Prayer Group

Ladies – you are invited to join with other women for an informal time of prayer and sharing on Mondays at 10 am, starting on October 23rd.  We will spend time praying for any personal concerns of people in the group as well as for our church, our community, and the world.  The gathering takes place in the Journey Room (located in the office hallway) and we plan to spend about an hour in conversation and prayer.  All ladies are welcome!  For more information, contact the church office or Michal Alexander. 

Annual Thanksgiving Meal

The church will be hosting its annual Thanksgiving Meal catered by Cracker Barrel on Sunday, November 19th at 5:00 PM. Tickets will go on sale soon.

 I pray that the eyes of your heart will have enough light to see what is the hope of God’s call, what is the richness of God’s glorious inheritance among believers, and what is the overwhelming greatness of God’s power that is working among us believers. This power is conferred by the energy of God’s powerful strength. Ephesians 1:18-19