Christ Church Weblog!

Eloise on Worship (Too Funny)

2007-12-12T09:39:00.000-05:00

Gift Exchange

2007-12-07T10:07:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T10:37:00.000-05:00

Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving week and weekend everyone! We'll see you Sunday for worship as we celebrate "Christ the King" sunday!

Prayer for the Day: "Your Servant is Listening"

2007-11-15T09:41:00.000-05:00

Jesus, thank you for all the ways you have known me, shaped me, and formed me for your purpose. Help me to grow in faithfulness, in clarity of thought and purpose as I learn how to discern your voice calling out to me.

Open my heart to hear you. Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.

I pray for the people of the world who long for Your holy encounter. Show me the way in which I am called as an individual to respond to the many needs of your people.

Open my heart to hear you. Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.

I pray for the nations of the world: for your wisdom to help to solve the problems that are too big and too complex for us, for help in bringing peace where there is no peace, justice where there is no justice, freedom where there is no freedom, and pray that you help us to have a right understanding of what freedom truly is.

Open my heart to hear you. Speak Lord, for your servant is listening. Amen.

Psalm 23 from a Little Princess

2007-11-14T10:56:00.001-05:00

You're going to love this...

Be Praying...

2007-10-26T09:36:00.000-04:00

...for those affected by the fires in California.

All Church Skating Event

2007-10-05T10:19:00.001-04:00

GREAT SKATES ALL-CHURCH EVENT
Sunday, Oct. 14 from 3-5pm

Join in and take a whirl around the skating rink. Can’t skate or has it been years since you’ve tried? Well now is the time to test out your speed and techniques or just come along to watch the festivities. No early sign-up is necessary, just plan to show up the day of the event. $2 roller skate rental, $3.50 inline skate rental, $5 unlimited laser tag. The Recreation Team will cover the $3 admission fee per person. For more info, contact Kenny Bailey at 532-2832 or bailey.kenny@ gmail.com. Guests and friends welcome.

New Singles Ministry

2007-09-21T09:50:00.000-04:00

Thurs., Oct. 11 at Christ Church from 6-8:30 PM is the kick off of our new singles ministry - Inspirational Thursdays (IT). IT will be a unique mix of fellowship, fun and purposeful study for adults that are single by choice, loss or divorce. Whether you are young or young at heart, we hope you will join us in this exciting new ministry. We will supply Subway Subs, drinks and place settings. You supply your enthusiasm and a side dish. Contact Molly Brown at 765-491-3811 or Vicki Alsop at 765-449-1095 if you are planning to attend.

Everything Skit

2007-09-13T10:25:00.000-04:00

Several people have sent us this link. Watch it and see what you think...

Indescribable...

2007-08-28T09:36:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Brenda Melville for the link!

The SOUP Signup has begun!

2007-08-24T10:31:00.000-04:00

Information about our fall Wednesday night programming is now available on the web site. Check out the worship and class information for THE SOUP...

HERE!

The Picnic

2007-08-16T10:40:00.001-04:00

The Christ Church annual picnic was a big success. To see pictures from this event, click here!

Sign up for the picnic!

2007-08-09T11:12:00.000-04:00

Have you signed up for the church picnic yet? We really need to know if you're coming so we can make sure to have enough food. If you're planning on going but haven't signed up on the posterboard at church, please email Amber Simons at asimons@purdue.edu by noon on Friday, August 5th.

Here are more details:

All-Church Picnic
Sun., August 12 | 1:00 pm

Join us for an afternoon of food, fun and fellowship with our church family and friends at Happy Hollow Park. Please plan to bring a dish to share and your extra recreational equipment.

1:00 - Great Food
2:00 - Volleyball & Softball
All Afternoon: Various rec activities

Indians Game

2007-07-25T09:56:00.001-04:00

A large group of people from Christ Church attended an Indianapolis Indians game this month. Check out all the pictures here!

LIFE GROUPS!

2007-07-17T08:40:00.000-04:00

On Sunday morning, those in attendance were introduced to a new ministry called LIFE GROUPS. Christ Church Life Groups will be the foundation of our Small Group Ministry. In fact, we are hoping that everyone in the church will sign up to be a part of one of these groups. Each Life Group will consist of 7 to 12 persons who will meet regularly for fellowship, sharing, scripture reading, accountability and support. The goal is to find a place for people to become connected to one another and the church and to receive encouragement in their spiritual journey.

For more information or to sign up for a Life Group, please click here to visit the LIFE GROUP page on the church website.

NOMADS Faith Promise

2007-07-10T10:03:00.000-04:00

Faith Promises are additional ministries that you can support while you support the general mission of Christ Church. The following video highlights the NOMADS Faith Promise for 2007:

Dinners for Eight

2007-06-29T15:53:00.000-04:00

Have you signed up for Dinners For Eight yet?

Dinners for Eight is a gathering of people to fellowship and share food either at each other’s homes, restaurant, park, etc. This small group program has been a tremendous tool to interact get to know your brothers and sisters in Christ and has the bonus of involving food! Click here to check it out and/or to sign up!

Website Changes

2007-06-21T15:58:00.000-04:00

There are some new major structural changes on the Christ Church website. There is a new ADULT EDUCATION page as well as a new SMALL GROUPS page. Click on each of the links to check them out!

Everlasting God (Chris Tomlin)

2007-06-20T09:42:00.000-04:00

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord

Our God, You reign forever
Our hope, our Strong Deliverer

You are the everlasting God
The everlasting God
You do not faint
You won't grow weary
You're the defender of the weak
You comfort those in need
You lift us up on wings like eagles

MeChurch

2007-06-19T09:08:00.000-04:00

We showed this clip on Sunday to help us think about our reason for being part of the church. Additionally, we began a 10-week worship series on WHO WE ARE as Christ Church.

New Sunday School Study

2007-06-15T09:07:00.000-04:00

Today you can see God in action, you can hear God speaking to you, and you can connect with God heart-to-heart. Join the Survey of the Bible Sunday School Class starting Sunday the 17th as they begin a 6-week study using John Ortberg's DVD "God is Closer Than you Think.” The class meets in Room 5 each Sunday from 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

United Methodist News

2007-06-14T09:24:00.001-04:00

From Sunday's Journal and Courier:

United Methodists in Indiana are one step closer to joining together. Currently there are two conferences in the state, the Northern Indiana Conference and the Southern Indiana Conference.

The North Indiana Conference met at Purdue earlier this month to vote whether to re-organize.
Friday, the South conference voted at Indiana University. The majority approved the recommendation.

United Methodist Bishop Michael Coyner will appoint a team to plan how to merge. Unity discussions have stretched over the past decade.

If the implementation plan is approved next year, the North Central Jurisdictional Conference of the UMC also would need to approve the uniting of the two conferences. With full approval, the earliest the new conference could meet would be 2009.

This Sunday's Scripture

2007-06-13T15:43:00.000-04:00

Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Matthew 28:18-20

What does this mean for you in your life?

Church Bloopers

2007-06-12T15:12:00.000-04:00

Lest we take ourselves to seriously...

Help for VBS

2007-06-07T09:29:00.000-04:00

JUST A REMINDER... Anyone who took a donation card for Vacation Bible School, please have your items turned in by this Sunday, June 10th.

Also, we are in need of 200 empty 20 oz. Gatorade/Powerade plastic bottles (or any plastic bottles with a wider opening at the top). If you could please save those and bring them in ASAP we would greatly appreciate it!

Thanks for your help and for supporting VBS!

Hands and Feet

2007-06-06T09:07:00.000-04:00

Sermon Notes from Sunday, June 3rd

2007-06-05T10:12:00.000-04:00

When are we too heavenly-minded to be any earthly good?

1.) When our theology is used to separate us into groups - instead of erase the lines that divide us.

2.) When the idea of Jesus overshadows the life of Jesus.

3.) When fear is used to initiate and build faith.

So, how do we live faithfully to be God's hands and feet in this world?

Annual Conference

2007-06-01T10:52:00.000-04:00

This week and weekend is the United Methodist Church's ANNUAL CONFERENCE at Purdue University. Churches from all over the North Indiana Conference convene there for United Methodist business, planning and celebration. Please be praying for their time!

A Little Life, A Tiny Death

2007-05-31T09:13:00.000-04:00

“Our Father, each day is a little life, each night a tiny death; help us to live with faith and hope and love. Lift our duty above drudgery; let not our strength fail, or the vision fade in the heat and burden of the day. O God, make us patient and pitiful one with another in the fret and jar of life, remembering that each fights a hard fight and walks a lonely way. Forgive us Lord, if we hurt our fellow souls; teach us a gentler tone, a sweeter charity of words, and a more healing touch. Sustain us, O God, when we must face sorrow; give us courage for the day and hope for the morrow. Day unto day may we lay hold of Thy hand and look up into Thy face, whatever befall, until our work is finished and the day is done. Amen.”

-St. Francis of Assisi, 1181-1226

God is LOVE

2007-05-29T09:09:00.000-04:00

He came singing Love;
He lived singing Love;

He died singing Love;
He rose in silence.

If the song is to continue
We must do the singing.

FAQ

2007-05-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

If God is love, why do you think so much of religion is fear-based?

(Leave us a comment)

O Praise Him

2007-05-23T09:53:00.000-04:00

David Crowder Band - "O Praise Him" - at Harvest 2006

Grace

2007-05-22T09:26:00.000-04:00

Here is the quote used in Sunday's worship service about Forgiveness:

"Repentance is not what we do in order to earn forgiveness; it is what we do because we have been forgiven. It serves as an expression of gratitude rather than an effort to earn forgiveness. Thus the sequence of forgiveness and then repentance is crucial for understanding grace." (Brennan Manning)

Response: What do you make of this quote? Have you found this to be true in your life? (Leave a comment!)

Psalm 51

2007-05-17T08:14:00.000-04:00

This week's worship theme is about Forgiveness - God's forgiveness of us. Watch this short video meditation on Psalm 51, the scripture that we will be using this Sunday:

New Equipment

2007-05-16T09:07:00.000-04:00

Sunday you'll get the chance to enjoy some fantastic new equipment in the sanctuary. For the last year or so, our video projection system has continued to worsen in quality. With the help of the Trustees, the new system (projectors and wall-mounted screens) is being installed this week. You'll be able to better see and enjoy videos and slides on the wall. If you know a Trustee, be sure to say "Thank you!"

Last week's bowling event...

2007-05-15T14:51:00.000-04:00

A word from Recreation Ministry Member, Kenny Bailey:

Each bowling event gets better & better. This time was the most organized. We had over 40 people on 10 lanes. Everyone was very thankful for the church having sponsored these events.

We will probably do bowling every few months, as it is easy to plan/organize/coordinate -- and the prices are pretty reasonable. Based on the current recreation schedule, it will likely be late Sept or Oct.

When Bad Things Happen

2007-05-11T09:09:00.000-04:00

Sunday's focus is "Why do bad things happen?" One of our members sent us this video, and though we don't have time to show it in our service, it certainly resonates with this theme. Click PLAY below to watch "Forever Changed (a VT Tribute)."

New Email Newsletter

2007-04-19T08:46:00.000-04:00

This week we begin a new E-Newsletter format. Watch your inbox this Thursday/Friday!

Also, if you have not signed up to receive our email newsletters, click here to do so.

SEED SONG

2007-04-12T13:24:00.000-04:00

Here was the poem that was shared at this week's SOUP worship:

SEED SONG by Joyce Rupp

I am the seed so small, so dry, lifted in the hand of the silent Sower.

Into the earth I fearfully fall, darkness covers me, silence surrounds me.

The terror of my heart is the only sound to keep me company.

All that is me huddles together trying desperately not to surrender any part of self.

Why was I planted? I dry out. Why am I here? I entreat. Take me out into the light: I cannot bear this deathly dark.

I weary, I weakened, the days become long. I can no longer fight.

I surrender in this lonely place of waiting.

Quietly I sense a penetrating warmth; it surrounds me; it fills me and blesses my pain.

I n a moment of peacefulness I forget my fear.

I let go of my self and suddenly the husk that holds me weakens and breaks.

No, I scream. I am losing my self, but it is too late. The husk is cracked; I cannot be contained.

It is then that I sense a power deep inside of me, encouraging me: let go. Let go. Let go.

It is an energy that pushes the husk until it falls away.

As it slips aside my eyes behold color. Ah! Can it be? A tiny glimpse of green!

How could that be? I marvel, there was never green in the heart of me.

Yet, it is there; each day, it slowly stretches upwards to where the warm seems to be.

I become less of a seed. I am losing my self, but the pain I once knew is lost in surprise; something wonderful is greening and growing deep within my heart.

Days go quickly no. I become one with the small stem of life.

Oh! The glorious moment when, ah, breath of Spring fast fills my face. I move through the hard earth and taste the world which awaits my arrival.

From within my tender shoot comes a soft sound. I listen, I hear. It is a song to the Sower.

Sower of seeds, did you always see this gift of green that was hiding in me?

Sower of seeds, how came you to prize the beauty within that I hid from my eyes?

Sower of seeds, the husk has been broken; all praise to you for helping me open.

Accept now my praise, my thankfulness, too, for the seed you have sown and gift that you grew.

May you lead me to others who await your good word, so the seeds within them can awake and be heard.

A Lenten Meditation

2007-04-04T10:40:00.000-04:00

Here we are in Holy Week. And here is a visual Lenten Meditation:

Pictures

2007-03-16T09:33:00.000-04:00

Do you have any pictures from any church functions? We are hoping to continue to grow our online archive of pictures and keep things fresh and up to date (our current pics are getting rather stale). If you have any pictures, please email them or get a CD to Trevor - trevor@christumchurch.org.

See the picture archive now by clicking here!

Website Changes

2007-03-14T14:55:00.000-04:00

Have you noticed all the changes on the church website? There's an updated "Get Connected" page, an updated "Resource" page and lots of updates. Click around and see what's new! There are other big changes/updates coming later this week including an expanded Children's Ministry section and more!!!!

Daylight Savings!

2007-03-10T10:33:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to move clocks an hour ahead tonight (daylight-saving time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday morning) so you won't show up to worship an hour late!

See you in the morning for a powerful worship service about our God of many "chances."

Calling Heaven

2007-03-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

Last weekend, several of the church staff visited Frazer UMC in Montgomery, AL. The church has done a fantastic job making their own in-house videos over the years and we just thought we'd share this one with you... it was a kick-off to a sermon entitled: "Ever feel like no one's listening?"

Tomorrow Night's SOUP

2007-03-06T09:01:00.000-05:00

In place of the regular worship service (6:15-6:45) tomorrow night at our Wednesday Night Programming called THE SOUP there will be a demonstration by ICAAN (Indiana Canine and Assistant and Adolescent Network). Some and see how dogs are trained to help assist those in need. The presentation may run a little longer than our half-hour worship services, but definitely will be done before classes at 7:00. For more information about ICAAN, visit their website at http://www.icaan.net/.

On a Trip

2007-03-01T14:07:00.000-05:00

Several of Christ Church Staff and Volunteers will be traveling to Montgomery, Alabama to visit FRAZER United Methodist Church for a Conference. Please be praying for Traveling Mercies and a good learning experience for all involved!

Lent Begins at THE SOUP

2007-02-20T10:41:00.000-05:00

At The Soup program this week (Wednesday Night), we will have our Ash Wednesday service. Ash Wednesday the beginning of the Lenten season - the 6 weeks leading up to Easter. Visit the Soup page for information about times and we hope to see you there!

Cancellation

2007-02-13T18:03:00.001-05:00

This Wednesday Night's "THE SOUP" Program (Feb. 14) has been cancelled due to the weather.

Prayer Chain Ministry

2007-02-08T15:52:00.001-05:00

We are trying to expand our praying to reach more people. There are two ways you can help: (1) Be on a prayer chain, pray one day a week and pass it on (by phone) -OR- (2) Be on an email list and pray for everyone on the list. To sign up or for more information, CLICK HERE.

Big Date Change

2007-02-02T10:17:00.000-05:00

Due to a funeral viewing on Wednesday, February 7th, the first evening of the Soup will be pushed back a week... making the launch night Wednesday, February 14th. Please be aware of the change and please help us pass the word along...

Treasures

2007-01-31T09:18:00.000-05:00

Here is this week's scripture. Any thoughts on it?

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Bowling Outing

2007-01-30T14:31:00.000-05:00

"Wow -- we had a GREAT turnout. Over 2x as many as last year!! People were showing up 15 minutes early & by 1:15 all our lanes were full! Everyone who wanted to bowl got to, which is good news. Definitely getting more lanes next time." (from Kenny Bailey, Rec Team)

The Bowling Event was a great success... if anyone took pictures, please let us know! Stay tuned for another bowling day coming soon!

Bowling Event this weekend!

2007-01-26T13:53:00.001-05:00

Strrrike!! Who's up for some bowling?

The Recreation Team is inviting everyone to this ALL CHURCH event. Guests welcome! It will be held at Arrowhead Bowl (2331 Brothers Dr., Lafayette) THIS SUNDAY, Jan. 28th from 1-4 pm.

Cost is $1.90/game,
$1.75 for shoes
and $2 for unlimited soft drinks!

Questions? Email Kenny Bailey at kennybailey@purdue.edu.

Bus Ministry!

2007-01-24T09:34:00.000-05:00

We are in need of drivers and helpers for our Bus Ministry - which will pick people up for Sunday mornings as well as other times as needed. Anyone with a drivers license can drive our new bus. If we don't get drivers, there will be no ministry. There will be a short meeting for information and training in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday, January 28th between 1st and 2nd services (approximately 9:15 am). For all questions, contact Laura Ehlers at 474-3302.

Many Thanks!

2007-01-23T11:02:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to former Christ Church pastor, Craig LaSuer, for preaching this past Sunday. Craig brought an important message about how followers of Jesus are called to go out into the community and world to bring light and love. As usual, you can listen to this message from the audio page of the church website. Thanks, Craig!

Thanks!

2007-01-16T14:49:00.000-05:00

A special thanks to guest preacher Billy Bross who brought us a message on Sunday about being united for the common good. A powerful message, especially on the weekend of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Traveling Mercies

2007-01-11T08:43:00.000-05:00

Pastor Jim and Sherry are currently on vacation visiting their children in the Dakotas. Please be praying for their safe travels and for a restful and enjoyable time away!

In the meantime, we will have visiting pastors on Sunday, January 11th and 18th. Come and check out their fresh perspectives!

Dinners for Eight

2006-12-29T09:22:00.000-05:00

It’s that time again! Time to sign up for Dinners for Eight. Dinners for Eight is a gathering of people to fellowship and share food either at each other’s homes, restaurant, park, etc. This small group program has been a tremendous tool to interact & get to know your brothers and sisters in Christ and has the bonus of involving food! ALL individuals/couples who are interested must sign up (even if you have participated in the past) . Click here to sign up online, or you may pick up a flyer from the Information Table at the church.

Good Grief!

2006-12-27T09:13:00.000-05:00

Over the course of 5 worship services on Christmas Eve, Christ Church had an (approximate) overall attendance of 1,250 people! Wow! Our hope is that each of those persons were touched by God in those services and that they were warmed by the Christmas spirit!

Arial of the Church

2006-12-21T11:29:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the COOL satellite feature of local.google.com, we were able to zoom into a pretty close satellite shot of the church. Check it out!

Shorts

2006-12-14T09:46:00.000-05:00

Check out these three great short film clips from Chronicle Project. Especially notable are the Jesus/Santa ads that are a parody of the Mac/PC ads. Pretty funny stuff!

Suggestions?

2006-12-13T14:28:00.000-05:00

If you ever have any suggestions about what would be helpful for you either on this blog or on the main church website, please leave some comments. We'll open to new ideas and will try just about anything if it's useful to you online! Thanks!

Interactive Advent Calendar

2006-12-12T09:59:00.000-05:00

Beliefnet.com now has a fun interactive Advent Calendar. Use it each day as we approach Christmas to find a reading and an audio clip. How cool!

Wow!

2006-12-07T14:35:00.000-05:00

Christ Church had 737 people attend worship last Sunday, December 3rd! Wow!

starving jesus

2006-12-05T08:50:00.001-05:00

a very short film about "letting go" (By: Blaine)

Get this video and more at MySpace.com

Waiting for Christ

2006-11-29T08:42:00.000-05:00

In the midst of preparations
some needful,
some questionable,
the only time
to watch
is now.

Can I come to Christmas,
come to Christ,
waiting
for new markings
on journey's path,
sensing
light's glow
in encircling darkness,
listening
for amazing mystery
of a birth cry?

Can I, in spirit,
paradoxically
move forward
in stillness
as I wait
for promised revealing
of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Emmanuel,
God-with-us?

In the midst of preparations,
the only time
to watch
is now.

[by Roberta Porter]

You'll shoot your eye out!

2006-11-28T09:07:00.000-05:00

This Sunday begins our new worship series where we take a deeper look at some of your favorite Christmas movies. This week: A Christmas Story

Remember how worked up Ralphie was about getting his Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle? What if we had that kind of anticipation for the coming Christ in this season?

This is a great series to which you can invite your friends, co-workers, neighbors, and relatives. Be sure to check it out!

Bye for a Bit!

2006-11-19T07:29:00.000-05:00

This blog will not be updated until November 27th due to a staff vacation! Have a great Thanksgiving!

Heart of Worship

2006-11-16T09:19:00.000-05:00

by Matt Redman

When the music fades and all is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart

I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required.
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You
All about You, Jesus

I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You
All about You, Jesus

Love the Lord Your God...

2006-11-15T09:23:00.000-05:00

Here was the liturgy that was used last week in the 8:30 service. We've had lots of comments on it, so we thought we'd share it again:

ONE: I am a good Christian.

CHOIR: What do you mean?

ONE: Well, I go to church every Sunday.

CHOIR: That is not enough.

ONE: Well, I rarely take the Lord's name in vain, and I almost never lie, and even when I do, it's just a little one.

CHOIR: That is not enough.

ONE: I visit my family.

CHOIR: That is not enough.

ONE: Well, I've never stolen anything, and I've certainly never killed anyone.

CHOIR: It's still not enough.

ONE: What then? What is enough?

CHOIR: You must love God. We must love God. With our hearts. With our minds. With our bodies. With our souls. We must love our neighbors. We must love ourselves.

CONGREGATION AND ALL: Let us put our love into motion as we worship the One who's taught us how to love.

Tomorrow is the Last Soup

2006-11-14T10:28:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone who has made THE SOUP - our Wednesday night programming - a success. Tomorrow night, 11/15, is the final Soup for 2006. We will resume again in February 2007 with another 10-week run.

Core Values Update

2006-11-10T09:39:00.000-05:00

The Core Values Task Force is continuing to work and is making great progress. On Monday, November 13th we will be in the final stages of developing our Purpose Statement. By Christmas we hope to be able to finalize the Purpose Statement along with 4-7 core values that will help guide us in becoming the church God is calling us to be.

Celebration #2

2006-11-09T08:57:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to Ed Armstrong and everyone who helped make this year's Church AUCTION a success.

This fundraiser raised $6,506 for Christ Church! Awesome!

Celebration #1

2006-11-08T09:20:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who helped with the Chicken Noodle Dinner (and Book Sale) in October!

The church make $5,700.35 from that fundraiser!

Quote

2006-11-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

Here was the quote we used last night at our Soup program...

"People usually consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air, but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don't even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child -- our own two eyes. All is a miracle." (Thich Nhat Hanh)

Christmas Themes Announced

2006-10-27T07:43:00.000-04:00

Thanks for your responses to our website poll regarding Christmas movies. Please see our Sunday Services page to find out what Christmas Movies we will be talking about in our December worship series. Thanks!

Web Poll

2006-10-25T08:53:00.000-04:00

If you haven't taken the time to answer the Poll Question on the main page of the church website... please do so now! We could really use your input on deciding which Christmas movies to use in our Advent worship series! Check it out!

THEME and MENU

2006-10-22T11:37:00.000-04:00

You’ve been in the dugout for many innings and it’s nearing the end of the game. Suddenly, the phone rings. The coach has called you in. It’s time to head to the pitchers mound. It’s time to run out and take your position. It’s time to become what God has called you to become. Can you feel it?

On Sunday we continued our worship series on the Church as a TEAM – where every member is a player, and every player is actively involved.

Sunday was a very special Sunday in that we had the opportunity to actually “step up to the plate.” We spent some time considering what our gifts were and how we might be able to use them for God’s purpose - through service in the church.

We now invite you CLICK HERE to take a look at the online version of the MINISTRY MENU and see how you can use your unique gifts in service to God.

Don't Forget: Chicken Noodle Dinner!

2006-10-19T15:14:00.000-04:00

Chicken Noodle Dinner: 4:30-7:00 pm

Tickets are $7 for Adults, $4 for Children 4-12
and FREE for Children Under 3

Book Fair / Crafts and Gifts / Bake Sale: 1:00-7:00 pm

Sunday's Guided Meditation

2006-10-18T14:55:00.000-04:00

Here is the Guided Meditation that was read in last Sunday's 10:45 Worship Service:

Make sure you are comfortable… close your eyes… and quietly attend to your breathing…
…allow your thoughts to settle and begin to focus inward…

…now imagine yourself in the batters box at a major league baseball game… the bases are loaded and it’s the final inning… everything depends on you… how do you feel? … Are you nervous? … Do you feel adequate? … Sit with those feelings for a moment … Suddenly you feel an extra, mysterious set of hands take the bat with you … It is no longer just YOU that is up to bat … God’s spirit is in you, empowering you …

…here comes the pitch … a power is in you that you did not know you were capable of… the bat connects with the ball… it flies up, up, up… it’s a home run! The crowd goes wild…

Take a moment to reflect and pray that, in the same way, God would empower you to do his work in the church and in the world. He has called each of us to be in ministry, but has not called us to do it by our own power. Take a few moments of silence to invite God to be your strength as you live out what you are meant to do and who you are meant to become.

Empowered!

2006-10-17T12:06:00.000-04:00

Sunday we continued with our worship series on the church as a team… where every member is a player and every player is actively involved.

Two weeks ago, the theme was “Let the Pastor Move Over.” We saw how the Pastor’s role is more like that of a team coach, who equips and encourages all of us to be God’s hands and feet. We also saw that it takes each of us in our various positions to carry out God’s work in the church.

This past Sunday,then, was “Let God’s Spirit Move In.” We discovered that we cannot possibly be the church God has called us to be unless we are centered in - and empowered by - God. Much of the work we are called to undertake cannot be done through our own efforts. We need God’s power and perseverance to be in us in order for us to “hit one out of the ballpark.” May God grant each of us “More Love & More Power” as we engage in ministry.

The Parable of the Three Fans

2006-10-13T09:50:00.000-04:00

Fan #1 is The Spectator. He just loves being at the game… the atmosphere is completely exhilarating to him. But Fan #1 doesn’t care if he isn’t playing on the team. He just wants to be there and to sit back and watch.

Spiritually speaking, many people are like Fan #1… they just love to be at church. They enjoy the music, the preaching, the fellowship. It is ok to be Fan #1, but there’s something a bit more exhilarating and meaningful about actually being on the team.

Fan #2 is The Benchwarmer. He used to be a spectator but he decided to join the team. Then Fan #2 began to see how hard it was to be a big leaguer. He had to work on his fielding, his throwing, his batting. He had to learn strategy, answer to the coach, and travel with the team. It was just too much work. So instead he decided to sit on the bench and watch his teammates do all the work.

Spiritually speaking, many Christians want to be a light for Jesus but then don’t take the steps necessary to grow and to serve others. It is just easier to ride the bench while everyone else does all the work.

Fan #3 is a Home Run Hitter. This fan loves being on the team and is willing to do whatever it takes to become a better player. It doesn’t matter what it costs or what it takes, fan #3 will do it if it means he becomes a homerun hitter.

Thankfully, many Christians have answered the call of God and are serving him faithfully. They are growing everyday and are committed to serving the church and the world.

We now invite to you take a few moments for reflection. Which fan do you most resemble? Where are you now? Where would you like to be? How is God calling YOU to be a team player?

[Adapted from a Sermon by JAMES CHANDLER]

The 7th Inning Stretch!

2006-10-12T15:16:00.000-04:00

(to the tune of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame")

Make me part of the church team,
Show me where I can serve.
There’s no job too big or small for me,
(I’ll) teach a class or clean the lavatory,
Now it’s Root, Root, Root for the whole team-
Hey, Pastor, move out of the way…
for it takes…each…one of us
to make it work God’s way!

Play Ball!

2006-10-10T08:58:00.000-04:00

Coach Tommy Lasorda once said: "There are three types of baseball players: those who make it happen, those who watch it happen, and those who wonder what happens." Sunday we began a new four week series about the church as a TEAM – where every member is a player and every player is actively involved. Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, brothers and sisters, we are not playing the game of life by ourselves. We are in this thing together, so let us each be a team player! It doesn’t make any difference whether you are the pitcher, the catcher, first baseman, second, third, outfielder or even the bat-boy, the food vender or the janitor who cleans up once everyone else has gone home. It takes one and it takes all! So if you’re ready, willing and available to serve as God has called you to serve, then let’s… PLAY BALL!

And the schedule is...

2006-10-06T14:57:00.000-04:00

The new Sunday AM schedule that will include THREE service and will begin on December 3rd has been posted! Click here to swing over to our Sunday Services page and check it out!

Christmas !?!?!?

2006-09-29T10:59:00.000-04:00

In case you missed it, there is now a Christmas/Advent page on the church's website. Please check it out each week.

It's hard to believe it's time to start thinking about Christmas....

Publicity Request

2006-09-28T15:31:00.000-04:00

Need to get the word out about something?Starting October 1, the new policy for church publicity is to use a “PUBLICITY REQUEST” form.These are located on the Information Table in the Narthex/Entryway as well as online by clicking here (the link is also in the left column on the main church website).

ALL requests need to be submitted via this form, so please do not submit emails, phone calls, or scraps of paper to the church office to request your publicity. Thank you for your cooperation.

Coming Very Soon!

2006-09-26T09:39:00.000-04:00

Watch for details about Christ Church going to THREE Sunday AM services in the next two weeks!

...details coming very soon!

Speaking of...

2006-09-21T14:23:00.000-04:00

Our last post had to do with Sermon Audio...

...and so does this one! We have updated the Audio page on the website today to include, among other things, a STREAMING AUDIO player that lets you stream the sermon in without downloading anything. Swing over and check it out BY CLICKING HERE.

Who's the Greatest?

2006-09-19T08:50:00.000-04:00

Jim's message on Sunday about "Who is the Greatest?" was both fun and challenging. Revisit Sunday's message by listening to it on (or downloading it from) our Audio page.

"So you want first place?

Then take the last place.

Be the servant of all." [Jesus]

THE SOUP recap

2006-09-14T08:44:00.000-04:00

The Soup - our new Wednesday Night program - was a huge success last night. There were over 150 people attending the meal and worship who then split off into 6 adult classes, youth classes, a childrens class and nursery. We're looking forward to a great Fall Semester of THE SOUP!

Oops!

2006-09-12T09:26:00.000-04:00

Sorry, don't know what happened last week, but we totally forgot about updating this thing.

So....... what big Church news did we miss?

-The youth had their big Sunday night program kickoff on Sunday. It was a success!
-We began a new worship series on the questions people asked Jesus in the Book of Mark.
-We begin our new Wednesday night program THE SOUP tomorrow night... more on THAT tomorrow!

Christ Church on MYSPACE

2006-09-05T11:45:00.000-04:00

Christ Church has now joined the uber-hip MYSPACE. If you're on there, be sure to add us as a friend. You can visit our page by clicking the link below...

www.myspace.com/christumchurch

Wednesday Nights!

2006-09-01T14:05:00.000-04:00

If you haven't signed up for THE SOUP (our Wednesday Night programming) yet...

WHY NOT!?!?!

Click here to visit The Soup page and consider signing up for one of these classes! We hope you'll be there!

FYI

2006-08-31T11:23:00.000-04:00

The Staff, Church Council and Leadership of Christ Church are currently in preliminary talks about adding a third worship service on Sunday mornings. Stay tuned for more details and to be a part of the conversation!

Looking Ahead

2006-08-30T15:31:00.000-04:00

Are you the kind of person that likes to look ahead?

Worship themes from now until the end of NOVEMBER have been posted on the church's website today. Click here to take a peek at what's coming up!

Revving Back Up!

2006-08-29T08:23:00.000-04:00

Christ Church's Preschool begins their fall season TODAY - Tuesday the 29th. Please be sending your love and prayers as they kick off another year!

New Members!

2006-08-25T08:36:00.000-04:00

See Sunday's Announcement Guide for more information about our New Members... in the meantime, here are a few pictures!

Ida Floyd

Dawn Rowe

Dan and Ofe Walker

Donald and Judith Uglow

Mindy Gawlik

New Youth Page

2006-08-24T14:58:00.000-04:00

Have you seen the new youth page? The Journey - Christ Church's youth ministry - has their own website and URL. Click below to visit...

THE JOURNEY @ Christ UMC
www.thejourneyatcumc.org

This Week's Scripture!

2006-08-22T08:56:00.000-04:00

1 How lovely is your dwelling place,
O LORD Almighty!

2 My soul yearns, even faints,
for the courts of the LORD;
my heart and my flesh cry out
for the living God.

3 Even the sparrow has found a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself,
where she may have her young—
a place near your altar,
O LORD Almighty, my King and my God.

4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house;
they are ever praising you.
Selah

5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.

6 As they pass through the Valley of Baca,
they make it a place of springs;
the autumn rains also cover it with pools. ^[b]

7 They go from strength to strength,
till each appears before God in Zion.

8 Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty;
listen to me, O God of Jacob.
Selah

9 Look upon our shield, ^[c] O God;
look with favor on your anointed one.

10 Better is one day in your courts
than a thousand elsewhere;
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
the LORD bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
from those whose walk is blameless.

12 O LORD Almighty,
blessed is the man who trusts in you.