Calvary Life, September 2011

calvary life Men Across West Michigan Gather Together Sept. 24...Pg. 9

September 2011

Don’t miss the Annual Meeting, Sept. 18... Pg. 14

Why you should join a community this fall...Pg. 8

contents

8 // Community Launch consider joining a new community group this fall

9 // Men’s conference are you winning the battle within? connect with other men across west michigan at this bi-annual event

14 // Candidate Bios get to know the men nominated for elder and deacon positions this year

4 | 5 Questions with Karen VanHolstyn The Calvary Life sits down with the Assistant Director of Calvary Community.

7 | Behind the Scenes

Serving at Calvary connects you to the life of the body; hear how as we sit down with Sue Schroeder.

4 | How Do I Connect?

The Visitors’ Center has a new name; learn more about its new focus.

10 | How Things Work

5 | On the Bookshelf

13 | Notes from the Field

Reading recommendations from the Calvary family for September.

6 | Messy But Phenomenal

How John & Kathy Zimmerman are experiencing community at Calvary.

Wednesday Nights at Calvary - explained!

Seeing lives changed through Short-Term Missions and International Student Ministry.

14 | 2011-2012 Elder and Deacon Candidates

Read up to prepare for the annual meeting on Sunday, September 18.

16 | A Note From the Elders

Elder Clerk Ron Haas reviews the Ice Cream with the Elders event on July 31.

17-22 | Program Guide

17 - Children, 5th-8th Grade 18 - High School, College, Merge, Foundations, Calvary Community 19 - Compassion Ministiries, Family Life, Men 20 - Pastoral Care, Special Needs 21 - Senior Adults, Women, Serving Opportunities 22 - Serving Opportunities Cont’d, Giving Opportunities

23 | September Calendar

Dates to know and hold onto for September.

24 | Welcome to Calvary

New to Calvary? This is a great place to start.

The WFD staff and Chef Rod are eager to get back in the kitchen and begin preparing and serving those wonderful tasty meals for you on Wednesdays. Our goal is to present to you weekly, excellent “Center of the Plate” entrees featuring original recipes from Chef Rod, Chef Neal, and Chef PJ that include complimentary sides, crisp green tossed salad, dessert, and assorted beverages.

The cost is low, $5 for the featured meal, or $15.00 for Family meal which would be two adult and three Hero meals. If children included in the Family meal are served the featured meal or the Super Hero meal the cost is an additional $2 each.

We serve from 5:00 to 6:30pm. Bring your family and meet your friends for great food, fun, and fellowship at Wednesday Fellowship Dinner.

For the Kids

New this year is the Healthy Hero Meal. This meal is designed to be healthy, nutritious, and tasty. The Healthy Hero will be offered to children under ten only. All Healthy Hero options will include salad bar, roll, low-fat milk, vegetable of the day, or carrot sticks and apple sauce.

Bareman ice cream cups will be available for dessert. Parents, if you’re looking for a balanced dinner for your children, this will be the option to choose.

For the children we will offer the Healthy Hero Meal for $3 or the traditional Hero meal which is a hot slice of Chef PJ’s homemade pizza squares, or a hot dog and mac-n-cheese for $3. For the “Super Hero” in all of us you can have two squares or two dogs for $5.

September 14 Down Home Goodness

Oven-fried Chicken Boneless/skinless breast of chicken, hand dipped in Chef’s original recipe breading and fried golden brown and tender, served with his own pan sauce Mashed Potatoes & Steamed Green Beans Healthy Hero Meal: Pasta and Meatballs (Whole grain penne pasta served with

Wednsheipsddinnaery Fellow

homemade marinara, meatballs & shredded cheese)

September 21 Sunny Italy on a Plate

Spaghetti with Sauce Marinara Perfectly cooked pasta with Chef Rod’s delicious salsa marinara, made with San Marzano tomatoes imported from Italy Italian-style Meatballs Handmade in Calvary’s kitchen from lean ground beef, mildly spiced and huge Italian Mixed Vegetables Cauliflower, carrots, broad green beans and broccoli Anti-pasta Salad Crisp lettuce, green olives, pepperocini, mushrooms, Genoa salami and tomatoes Healthy Hero Meal: BBQ Chicken (Grilled breast of chicken with bbq sauce and steamed rice)

September 28 Calvary’s #1 Favorite

Taco Salad Served in a hard shell with shredded lettuce, ultra-lean mildly spiced ground beef, shredded Colby and Jack cheese, and diced Roma tomatoes Santa Fe Steamed Rice White rice flavored with chili Chimayo, comino, salsa and cilantro Boracho Beans Pinto beans spiced with southwest flavors, tender slow-cooked in Calvary’s trusty ovens Red and Green Salsa Chef Rod’s original recipe tomato salsa and salsa verde, all your favorite sides and tortilla chips.

Healthy Hero Meal: Hamburger Steak (Fresh, lean, in house formed ground beef patty grilled and mashed potatoes)

good to know Worship Service Times

We will return to three services times (8:10am, 9:40am and 11:15am) on Sunday, September 11.

Family Service September 4

Please note that September 4 is a family service Sunday. Nursery is available up to 35 months; children preschool age and older are encouraged to attend the service with their family (activity boxes are available at the desk near Entrance N). If needed, room 254 is open for children ages three through five.

Young Adults Scholarship Fund

Every year the young adult ministry provides opportunities including retreats, conferences, book clubs, and times of service to cultivate and encourage spiritual growth. Sadly, financial hardships can make it difficult for some of our young adults to take full advantage of these

opportunities. Would you consider donating to the college and young adult scholarship fund and invest in the next generation of leaders at Calvary Church? To donate, designate Young Adults Scholarship Fund on your check or giving envelope and place it in the offering plate on Sundays.

Membership Class

We believe membership in the local church is important.

Membership means commitment to learn, to be in community and to contribute giving back to God what He so richly gives to us.

Our upcoming membership classes are a five-week class-- Sunday, September 18—October 16; and a one-day class-- Saturday, November 12 from 9:00am-2:30pm. The September class meets for five consecutive Sundays during the third service at 11:15am. Pre-registration is needed. Register

online or contact Brenda (bneher@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5650.

Children: Re-register by September 4

Children age one through fourth grade need to be re-registered for the 2011-2012 Sunday school year. Re-registration helps keep our database current, places your child with a teacher for the fall, and ensures that your child will have a nametag on September 11 – Kickoff Sunday. Pre-printed registration forms are available at the checkin desks. Please verify the information on your family’s form, and place it in the bucket.

New Family Restroom

We have constructed a family restroom in the nursery wing in room 243. It has a large changing area and facilities for families with young children.

connections getting to know calvary

How do i Connect? “visitor’s center” no more

Questi o ns 5 with Karen VanHolstyn

1. What is your role at Calvary Church?

My role is to assist in all aspects of building and promoting community at Calvary Church. This includes everything from growing Adult Sunday Classes and Monday Night Bible Study to assisting other ministries in connecting people.

2. What encourages you most as you minister in Calvary Community?

I’ve found recently that my driving passion is for the person who comes here on Sunday morning, sits and listens to the sermon and then walks out again without any other interaction. I was so excited to realize that my passion was my job here at Calvary! Seeing people get connected in a group, maybe for the first time, is a wonderful encouragement to me.

3. How have you experienced life{together}?

My husband, Joe, and I have been members here for 20 years and our four girls have grown up here; we have been shown love through some really tough times and don’t know what we would have done without the support of our church family. We have experienced great joy and it was made all the more special to share it with others.

4. How has God used your community to showcase His love recently?

I have had several occasions this summer where my group has prayed me through some tough spots. The feeling of knowing that others were petitioning God on my behalf is such an encouragement and when the prayers were answered, it was wonderful to share the joy with them!

5. How can the Calvary family pray for you and your ministry this month?

Pray that everyone would find meaningful community and that all the hindrances that may prevent true community would be overcome.

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For many years our Visitors Center has been an inviting place for new people to come and learn how to connect at Calvary.

However, we recognize it can be intimidating to single yourself out, so many newcomers never make it into the Visitors’ Center. In such a large church, this makes it difficult to get acquainted with new attendees.

After brainstorming with team leaders and several staff, we decided to seek ways for all people to connect at Calvary — whether they are a first time visitor or have been here for 10+ years.

It is our desire to see our congregation build relationships with likeminded believers that will last for eternity.

One result of this plan is changing the name from Visitors’ Center to The Connection Point, where our goal is to see every believer engaged in authentic Christian community. So whether you are new to Calvary or have been here all your life, The Connection Point is for you.

Please stop in between services, have a cup of coffee, meet some wonderful people, and see how you can connect at Calvary Church.

Be sure to pick up the new guidebook to help you navigate your way around Calvary and if you are new, please sign up for the next Newcomers Welcome on October 2 and the four-week Explore Calvary class that begins on Wednesday, October 19. To sign up for either activity, contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5077.

on the bookshelf

recommended reading for september Recommended by the Calvary Library A Shark Attack is no match for God’s plan and providence. In Raising a Soul Surfer, the story of the Hamilton family is told as only a mother could, a vivid illustration of how a sovereign God can turn what we see as a tragedy into a hope-filled witness of His power, grace and blessing. Soul Surfer is also available in the Library on DVD. She wanted to die. She laid down on a set of cold railroad tracks and waited for a freight train to send her to heaven… and peace, but God had other plans. If you struggle to find the strength to go on or know someone who does, the message of Kristen Jane Anderson’s story, in Life, In Spite of Me will fill you with the life-transforming power of hope in Christ.

In Through My Eyes, Tim Tebow writes about life as he chooses to live it, revealing how his Christian faith, his family values, and his relentless drive to succeed have molded him into the person and the athlete he is today.

Lee Content, Pastoral Staff Calvary Community

Chad Kerr, Church Treasurer & Community Group Leader

Brenda Neher, Calvary Community Admin. Assistant

A Chance to Die is a great reminder of the sacrifices missionaries made at the turn of the century to bring the gospel to foreign lands. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good biography and a reminder of the magnificent courage these women displayed in the face of danger.

The 10 Second Rule* is a quick read, full of transparent stories and practical insights on obedience. I recommend The 10 Second Rule to any follower of Jesus who is trying to listen and obey.

Sticky Church gives great practical advice on building a thriving small group ministry. We get people into church through the “front door,” but if the “back door” is wide open, the church won’t grow. He suggests that the relationships that small groups build is a proven way to shut the back door. It’s not only a great book about small groups, it was also very entertaining.

All the books mentioned above are available in Calvary's Library. The library is located across from Fellowship Hall on the lower level. Beginning September 11, hours are Sunday, 9:15 - 11:15am; 5:15 - 5:45pm; Wednesday, 9:15 - 9:45am; 6:00 - 7:30pm. Our Library Collection is searchable online! This helpful search tool will enable you to view all of the library’s resources from the convenience of your home. You can find us at: calvarygr. org/ministries/library. *This book will be published September 15 and available in the Library shortly thereafter.

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life{together} experiencing community at calvary

Messy but Phenomenal by john zimmerman

My wife, Kathy, and I have been involved in small groups both as members and as leaders for many years. When we lived in San Antonio, we were so far away from our relatives that our group became our pseudofamily, and to this day we are still very close to the friends we made over 20 years ago.

When we arrived in Grand Rapids back in 2002, we felt called by God to lead a group at Calvary Church. Our earlier groups had all been fairly homogenous in nearly every respect, so I think we were expecting that again when we came here. But the Community Group God has assembled at Calvary is very diverse. Currently we have 14 members, including 4 singles and 5 couples. Racially, we have one Asian-American, three African-Americans, and the rest from European descent. (Yes, even some Dutch!) We have six women and 8 men. We range in age from the 40’s to the early 60’s. Some are parents of teens. Some are grandparents of pre-teens. It has been a group where we are learning the joy of seeing God at work in our diversity to bring unity in Christ Jesus. We would probably not have assembled this group this way ourselves. But God has done it, and we love everyone who is in it. His work is better than ours would have been!

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Our group is a very strong part of our lives. We have we are learning the joy of seeing God at work our closest friends in that group. We eat together, in our diversity to bring unity in Christ Jesus. attend plays together, visit We would probably not have assembled this one another in the hospi- group this way ourselves. But God has done it, tal, have picnics and dinners together, and share and we love everyone who is in it. His work is stories. But most of all we better than ours would have been! pray together, study the Bible together, and challenge one another to walk more closely with God. We have had discussions about spiritual gifts, and who has which ones.

We have seen members of our group genuinely grateful that God has used others in the group to teach them, or help them through a tough spot and they have grown immensely in their faith during our time together. We have had a number of relatively serious physical problems among members of the group, and have had the pleasure of seeing God work them out, sometimes in ways we were not expecting.

Community Groups are all about living out the “one-another” passages of scripture up close and personal. It can be messy and difficult. But it’s absolutely phenomenal!

Behind the Scenes

Serving at Calvary with Sue Schroeder Where do you currently serve at Calvary?

I serve in the Young Adults Ministry at Calvary. I’m the Lay Events Coordinator for Young Adults. This means I lead teams to coordinate the large events for the Young Adult Ministry such as the Young Adults Conference. Then I also lead a team that organizes events for Merge, the young adults group for ages 22-34. I also serve on the Young Adults Advisory Committee and help to lead Merge on Sundays.

How did you begin serving at Calvary?

Sue - young adult ministry Volunteer

God has given me a heart for young adults and a longing to see them grow to know God more deeply and be active members of the church body. I began by asking God to provide a place for me to serve. Just as I was beginning to wonder if there was a place for me, God lead me to serve at the information table at the young adults group.

What challenges have you encountered in your ministry?

The biggest challenge in my ministry has been how best to use my time to serve God. God has been faithful in teaching me to rest when He gives me an empty day on the calendar as that often means He is refueling me for challenges ahead.

How has God blessed you If you’re a single young adult (age 22 to 34) through serving?

looking for community, you’re invited to join merge, which meets Sunday mornings at 11:15 in room 137. Contact Mason (msherrill@ calvarygr.org) for more information.

God has blessed me tremendously through serving. I get to witness how God is growing young adults spiritually and how He is guiding them to serve Him. God has also blessed me by teaching me to clothe everything in prayer as He will provide!

Merge event at klackle’s Orchard - Fall 2010

How do you experience community at Calvary?

I experience community at Calvary through Merge. I love this community. It is a group of young adults who seek to love the Lord and care for each other. I really experienced this care when I broke my ankle this summer. Merge rallied around me. People brought meals, sent cards, called, provided rides and truly showed me God’s love.

young adult conference planning team members - spring 2011

Serving Opportunities Abound

If you are a child of God, He has gifted you to serve in the body of Christ. Find out how you can get connected to use your abilities and passions, by contacting Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5077 or Judie Fielstra (jfielstra@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5095. Go online to our Serving Ministry page to see some of our current serving needs.

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Interested?

Why should I join a Community Group?

Community is a place where you belong; a place where you develop relationships with other believers and do life together. We believe that authentic Christian community is the ideal place for sustained growth to occur.

The Importance of Being in Community

It’s important for everyone at Calvary to belong to a smaller community. This year — and in the years ahead, we will be working harder than ever to get everyone involved!

Whether an Adult Sunday Class, a family group, neighborhood group, or an affinity group, our goal is to encourage everyone to become part of a smaller community.

One of the main reasons for this is that it’s biblical. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible speaks to the importance of people living out their faith in the context of their communities. Acts 2 gives the quintessential picture of what happens when people come together as the result of their commonality in Christ.

Smaller communities also give people the opportunity to create genuine and authentic friendships — friendships that are strong and enduring because their foundation is Christ; friendships that have deep roots because they are nourished by God’s word, prayer and care. As society moves away from authenticity and real relationships, Christian community can give true meaning to people’s lives. This is because people in groups have earned the right to hold one another accountable, have spent enough time together to really know how to pray for each other, and lastly, people in groups really desire to care for one another, not out of some sense of obligation, but because they have come to love each other.

At the end of the day, being in community strengthens both the individual and the group. It strengthens both because it encourages people to look beyond themselves and to find purpose in their shared mission here at Calvary: “To be Christ’s church in this place.”

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What kind of commitment would this be?

Each group is encouraged to meet twice a month (though each group decides elements of group meetings) and commit to meeting together at least eight times.

How large are the groups?

We try to have no more than 14-16 people in a group.

How can I sign up for a Community Group?

Stop by the Community Tent (September 11, 18 and 25) outside the main church entrances or visit the Connection Point. Still have questions, contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org) at 956-9377, ext. 5173.

Are you looking for community?

To help make this kind of community accessible to everyone, we are launching lots of new Community Groups at Calvary. There is a group for everyone! Neighborhood groups meet in homes throughout the area. Family groups are intended to help entire families experience community together. Global groups are new and will have a focus on living a missional life. Monday night Bible study groups meet here at the church. We also continue to have a myriad of groups for Women, Men, Young Adults and Seniors, along with a number of Support Groups.

Community Group Launch

We’ll be launching new neighborhood, family and global groups on Sunday afternoon, October 2, 4:00 to 6:00pm.

Each new group will be unique, reflecting the personality of its members.

• All will commit to meet at least eight times.

Most groups meet every other week.

• Many will use sermon-based discussions.

• All will involve regular gatherings that include food, conversation, prayer and Bible study.

Launch Date!

When: Sunday, October 2 Time: 4:00-6:00pm Where: Fellowship Hall RSVP: Register by Sept. 26 • Online at calvarygr.org • OR, pick up a registration form at the Information Centers • OR, contact Brenda Neher (bneher@calvarygr.org) at 956-9377, ext. 5650.

n’s e M nce ∙ e t h nfere Co

Featuring

Winning the Battle Within Saturday, September 24 8:00am-4:00pm

707 E Beltline NE | Grand Rapids

Enjoy a day of worship and fellowship along with challenging teaching and break-out sessions.

Fred Stoeker

Co-Author of Every Man’s Battle

∙ Walk in the freedom that God intends for your life ∙ Strengthen your marriage & dating relationships ∙ Learn to protect your heart & mind ∙ Find victory over sexual temptation

Clay Allen

Founder of Avenue for Men

Tickets are only $15* & include lunch! $10 for Students (14+)

*

Get your ticket to The Men’s Conference today at calvarygr.org/men! ∙ HOSTED BY CALVARY CHURCH ∙ September 2011 | calvarygr.org | 9

how things work

Wednesday nights at calvary start here

5 Years - 4th Grade 6:30-7:50pm | Entrance K

Cost Featured Meal - $5 Children's "Hero" or “Healthy Hero” Meal - $3 Children's "Super Hero Meal" - $5 Family Meal (2 Adult & 3 Hero) - $15 Imagine: A gourmet chef, a quality meal, a dinner with family and friends at a really low price and no dirty dishes to clean up afterwards. Every week at Wednesday Fellowship Dinner, you get just that. The menu includes an entree, complimentary sides, tossed salad, homemade petit pan loaves, beverages and dessert.

For the children, we offer the “hero” meal, featuring a homemade pizza square, or a hot dog and mac-n-cheese.

For the “Super Hero” in all of us, we offer two pizza squares or two hot dogs. For the “healthy hero” we offer a more balanced alternative which always includes salad bar, roll, lo-fat milk, vegetable of the day, or carrot sticks and apple sauce. See the entire menu on page 3.

How to Get Here: Walk through the double doors at Entrance J and turn left. The line forms in the first doorway on your left past the reception desk.

next, find an evening activity 10 | September 2011 | calvarygr.org

WOW is a time for kids to interact as they exercise their minds, bodies and souls in chosen electives and discuss faith concepts in small groups.

th into

action at

Pick up a WOW brochure at the Information Center at the back of the Sanctuary, or at the Children’s check-in desks. Registration for WOW is included on the Children’s Ministry registration form.

Li’l WOW: Three and four-year-olds can join us for Li’l WOW where we will learn Bible stories, make crafts and memorize scripture. Li’l WOW meets in room 250.

WOW Nursery is available to those children whose parents are either serving on Wednesday night or are participating in an adult Wednesday night program.

Note: Parents of children birth through first grade must remain in the building during WOW. See the next page for evening activities for adults.

How to Get Here: Children five-years-old through fourth grade are to be checked in at Entrance K. Each child will be issued an ID tag, then escorted by their parent or guardian to their small group area, where they will be checked out at the conclusion of WOW.

6:00-6:40pm | Room 251 (Upper Level, Children's Wing)

LUMIN8 Children's Choir

Dinner served 5:00-6:30pm in the Fellowship Hall

WOW Wednesdays (5 - 4th Grade)

Wednesday Fellowship Dinner

Put your fai

LUMIN8 will proclaim God’s glory in a variety of performances throughout the year: Sunday morning services, Child Dedication song, a Christmas program, and a spring concert. At the end of the year, the choir will record and produce a CD of original music written by the Children’s Ministry.

LUMIN8 meets for practice on Wednesday night from 6:00-6:40pm. Children also participating in the WOW Wednesday programming, will be taken to their elective at 6:40pm. Registration for LUMIN8 is included on the Children’s Ministry registration form.

Note: In order to help LUMIN8 participants arrive on time, they are asked to jump to the front of the WFD line. Be kind and no one will mind.

xth y h /s i fift i s t r min

You can join Refuge any time in the school year, just show up!

Room 108 | 6:30-8:00pm

Oasis (7th-8th Grade)

56

Oasis is our Wednesday night small group program! Want to go deeper asking specific questions about topics that concern you?

Want to make some close friends? Want to get to know some of our fun, caring, super skilled leaders on a more personal level? Are you bored on Wednesday nights, want to hang out with friends, or simply don’t feel connected?

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h/ ent h s e vg h t y E i istr min

Whatever your reason in coming, Oasis is an awesome place for 7th and 8th grade students! We’ll play games, worship, hear a brief talk, and break up into our groups. You can join Oasis any time in the school year, just show up!

Fundamentals of the Faith

The school week can be tough. Homework, activities and the pressures of school make your life busy. That’s why we offer refuge every Wednesday night. It’s a great time of fun and encouragement where we play games and learn about God with a small group of Christian friends.

Adult Bible Study

Refuge (5th-6th Grade)

Room 109 | 6:30-8:00pm

Explore Calvary

The Go-Getters class is a congregation of adults with a wide range of dis-abilities. We have a wonderful time of prayer, praise and worship as we join together to learn of God and His love for us.

How to Get Here: Parking and drop-off is available at Entrance C, on the upper level of the church to the south of the Main Sanctuary Entrance (A). After you have attended a few times, we ask that you fill out a registration form.

Explore Calvary | 5:15-6:30pm Are you new to Calvary Church? Are you finding it hard to navigate or get plugged in? Meet together with us for four weeks (offered throughout the year), in an informal setting to meet others new to Calvary, share a meal together, meet staff, and learn more about Calvary. For more information, contact Judie Fielstra (jfielstra@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5095.

How do we know the Bible is God's Word? What is sin and where did it come from? How is Jesus fully God and fully man? What are spiritual gifts? When and how will Christ return? Why should I pray? If you've asked questions like these, then "systematic theology" is no abstract term. It's an approach to finding answers every Christian needs to know in order to live a life that glorifies God. How to Get Here: To register for this class (open to men and women, 18+), contact Lou DeGraaf (ldegraaf@calvarygr.org). Room 130 is located just outside the back of Fellowship Hall to the left of the Library.

Room 121 | 6:30-7:50pm This year we will study discipleship, looking particularly at the pre-requisites and methods used by Jesus in the Gospels and Paul in Acts.

How to Get Here: This Bible Study is open to men and women, 18+. You are welcome to show up any week, no registration is necessary. This study takes place in Fellowship Hall to the left of the fountain soda dispenser.

Choir: Choir Room | Orchestra: Sanctuary 6:30-8:15pm

Choir & Orchestra

Go-Getters

Go-Getters Special Needs Adults | Chapel | 6:45-8:15pm

Room 130 | 6:30-7:50pm

Choir and Orchestra rehearse on Wednesday evenings. They spend time praying for one another and practicing worship music for Sunday morning as well as for Festival of Lights and other events.

How to Get Here: The choir room is located through the double doors at Entrance I and to your right. It is the second door on the right. The Sanctuary is located on the upper level, walk in Entrance I and head straight up the stairs. When you get to the top, the Sanctuary is to your right.

Open rehearsals take place in September.

Questions?

Call the Church Office at 956-9377 and Marilyn will lead you to the information you need to find your place, Wednesday Nights at Calvary.

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notes from the field updates on mission work locally and globally

seeing lives changed around the world 2011 will see the largest contingency of short term participants serving in multiple locations throughout the world from Calvary in recent history. We are seeing many of our own people take the initiative to involve themselves in a trip that interests them - from medical trips to working in orphanages. Some went on construction trips, others to help with camps, and others to do relief and development work among the poorest and oppressed in our world.

A team of our women ministered alongside our worker, Denise Carter in Odessa. The doors that opened and the bridges built in relationships will continue to help Denise in her church planting efforts.

Our youth also ministered in Marvell, Arkansas, Charleston, West Virginia and right here in Calvary sent two teams to Mozambique, with another scheduled to leave Grand Rapids. in October. We continue to seek to make disciples among the people of Finally, multiple trips were sent into Central Asia our adopted village of Chinhangane through spiritual development, to work alongside some of our workers who business, agriculture, and next generation ministry. are seeing the church established and mature We sent one adult trip and one student trip to Poland working alongside through business as mission.

Leszek Wakula. We rejoice in what God did through our teams and the We rejoice for the numbers that are now involved in Short Term Missions, lives changed. but greater joy comes from seeing lives changed. That includes how God We sent a work team to India this year to work alongside our workers, works in the lives of Calvary people who will never be the same again Jonathon and Hannah Victor. This team accomplished more than after experiencing what God can do through them in missions. Plans are expected and laid the groundwork for a future team to not just work, but in the works for 2012, with trips to each of the areas described above as set up a medical clinic. well as a family trip to Honduras.

World missions at your doorstep With over 725,000 international students studying in the United States, world missions has come to our doorstep. Last year 50 students from Saudi Arabia, China, Korea, Netherlands, Mexico, Libya, Ghana and India, attended our Annual Friendship Dinner at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. At the dinner, students were given the opportunity to sign up for Friendship Partners from Calvary. Students were matched with volunteers who offered them friendship while they were away from family, friends, and home. They helped them by spending time with them, and inviting them to their homes for meals and family celebrations.

As our Friendship Partners opened their lives and hearts to the students, trust was built and some volunteers were able to share the good news of Jesus Christ. For most students this was the first time they had the opportunity to meet a Christian or to read and study the Bible. During the past year, many students attended Festival of Lights and other worship services and classes at Calvary.

This year we are excited to expand our ministry by offering monthly activities designed to bring together international students and volunteers from Calvary in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. We will also offer weekly Bible studies for students who want to learn more about the Bible. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet, befriend, and share God’s love with internationals here in our community.

An informational lunch will be held on Sunday, October 2, at 12:30pm.

If you are interested in being a Friendship Partner, attending the Annual Friendship Dinner on Thursday, October 13, or volunteering in another way (see serving opportunities on page 22), contact Cynthia Sommerfeld (neighbors_international@calvarygr.org) at 676-7292.

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Annual september 18, 2011

Elder candidates Brian Swanton Family: Married to Nancy for 33 years. Daughter is married with two children and their son is in college Attendance: Since 1985, became members several years thereafter Ministry: Helped to start Family Trees 18 years ago, teaches and shepherds in Family Tree, participates in a Men's Ministry Bible study.

Bruce Bradford Family: Married to Jane for 47 years. Three children (one of whom is now in heaven), and three grandchildren.

Attendance: Members of Calvary for over 25 years.

Ministry: Served as Elder, Board Chairman, assimilation ministry facilitator, Monday night Bible study leader.

Jane served in the Choir, and has been a Bible study leader and co-leader, and pianist. They attend the FLOCK class, where they serve on the Outreach Committee.

Allen VanHaitsma Family: Married to Scherlyn for 42 years. Blessed with three daughters, their spouses and seven grandchildren.

Attendance: Attending Calvary Church for 20 years and became members soon after they began attending.

Ministry: Allen shares teaching in a small group Bible Study and he and Scherlyn are mentors in the Connect Class. Scherlyn has served on eleven mission trips, led Bible studies, and sat on numerous committees for Missions and Women’s Ministries.

Bill Azkoul Family: Married to Janis for 26 years. Have three wonderful children.

Attendance: Since the 1960s.

Ministry: Bill and Janis taught the Young Marrieds Sunday class, started the Leadership Development Forum for high school students and currently lead a community group. He has previously served as an elder and in various committees and is currently a member of Pastor Samra’s Study Group.

14 | September 2011 | calvarygr.org

Dave Oviatt Family: Married to Susie for 35 years, they have two sons, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.

Attendance: Dave has been a believer since age eight and a part of the Calvary family since 1982.

Ministry: Attends the Baby Boomers and Beyond class. Volunteer at the Health Intervention Services Clinic for the uninsured. In 2006, he and Susie retired from their medical practices in order to serve in short-term medical missions.

Kent Snoeyink Family: Married to Amy, blessed to be parents of Hannah, Leah and Lydia.

Attendance: For 20 years, members since 1996 Ministry: Taught in Kingdom Kids, co-led the Student Leadership Development Forum, and have served on Calvary-sponsored mission trips.

Amy plays in the orchestra and Kent is a former deacon who currently serves as coordinator of the Leadership Development Forum.

Denny Bergakker Family: Married to Faith, three adult children.

Attendance: Members of Calvary since 1989.

Ministry: Currently leading a small group Bible study in their home and serving on the Pastoral Resident Advisory Team. Has also served two terms as a deacon and as the Treasurer as well as a member of several other committees. Faith currently serves as a mentor mom in the MOPS program as well as a member of the benevolence team.

Vernon Spears Family: Married to Angie for 14 years, blessed with two daughters, ages five and eight.

Attendance: Attended Calvary Church for 11 years and been members for over four years.

Ministry: Participated in Monday night Bible Study, Leadership Development Forum, served as member/facilitator in the Connect and 24/7 classes, and participates in the drama team and Festival of Lights.

Everyone is encouraged to take part in our Annual Meeting on Sunday, September 18, at 6:00pm. Come participate in this important meeting as we rejoice in how the Lord has blessed Calvary Church this past church year, select new elders and deacons, and discuss our vision for the future. We will vote to make a final decision on the revised constitution. All Calvary attendees are encouraged to attend, however, only members may vote.

Childcare will be provided (birth through age five). If you consider Calvary to be your home church, this meeting is for you. Join us!

Deacon candidates Daniel Wynalda Family: Married to Katie for 17 years, have three children– Daniel (15), Jordan (13) and Bailey (11).

Attendance: Over 20 years Ministry: Served in single adult congregations, technical services, nursery, 5th grade (teaching), short term missions and a variety of roles in the Acts 2:42 congregation. Also a middle school small group leader.

low House.

Steve Bagley Family: Married to Ann, have four children: Micah (9), Will (7), Nathan (6), and Eva (18 months).

Attendance: Since 1997.

Ministry: Involved in Kingdom Kids ministry, especially serving on Wednesday nights. Also served in various other ministries including the Legacy Builders adult class, Leadership Development Forum, and the First Impressions Welcome Team.

Herm Guikema Family: Married to Pat for 49 years; blessed with four children, their spouses and 11 grandchildren.

Attendance: Members since 1996.

Ministry: Served one term as deacon and currently a member of the Property Team. Pat and Herm volunteer at Urban Family Ministries and teach three-yearold children in Kingdom Kids.

Jim Hoekwater Family: Married for almost 20 years to Kristie, blessed with - Courtney (15), Tyler (14), and Jenna (12).

Attendance: Members for 16 years Ministry: Served in the Children’s and Middle School Ministry; Children’s Hunger Fund; International Student Ministry; and on short term missions trips. Also involved in the Leadership Development Forum a member of the Acts 2:42 adult congregation.

Darren Herweyer Family: Married 14 years to Jill, three children Lauren (9), Sophia (6), and Jacob (2).

Attendance: Born into the Calvary Church family and has attended all his life.

Ministry: Involved in the Leadership Development Forum, leadership of The Connect Class, and active in a small group for over ten years.

Michael Reiffer Family: Married to Andrea for 11 years, Simeon (5), Samuel (3), and Isaiah (1) Attendance: Since 1999, members for five years.

Ministry: Involved in teaching Marriage Prep with his wife, volunteering in Lil’ WOW on Wednesdays, and co-leading the Family Road Map class. Currently, Michael and Andrea participate in fellowship and community in the Growing Strong Families class.

Congregation.

Jim Stubblefield Family: Married to Sherry since 1992. Have four children: Brad (15), Spencer (14), Ethan (11), and Karissa (10).

Attendance: Since 1990.

Ministry: Involved in Acts 2:42 and serving in the budget-counseling ministry through the Yel-

Brian Klaver Family: Married for 15 years to Cindy, have an 11-year-old son Jon, a 9-year-old daughter Kate, and a 7-year-old son Matt.

Attendance: Members for five years Ministry: Teaches a WOW children’s small group and works in the sports program. Brian and Cindy also helped start the Connect Class continue to help organize and manage this class.

Cy Jourdan Family: Married to Michele for 17 years, Ashley (16), Amber (14), Lance (9), and Audrey (5) Attendance: Since 1991. Members since 2000,.

Ministry: Ministered in the Nursery and Wednesday night programs, as well as the parking lot. Cy and Michele are also part of the Acts 2:42 Adult

September 2011 | calvarygr.org | 15

a note from the elders Respectfully Submitted by Ron Haas, Elder Clerk 2010-2011 Board Members Elders

Lee Brenner

(lbrenner@calvarygr.org)

Eric Cerling

(ecerling@calvarygr.org)

Jim DeVries

(jdevries@calvarygr.org)

Ron Haas

(rhaas@calvarygr.org)

Larry Hulst

(lhulst@calvarygr.org)

Les Lamborn

(llamborn@calvarygr.org)

Noe Palacios

(npalacios@calvarygr.org)

Mike Still

(mstill@calvarygr.org)

Tom Thurston

(tthurston@calvarygr.org)

Dan Visser

(dvisser@calvarygr.org)

Jerry Ward

(jward@calvarygr.org)

John Zimmerman

(jzimmerman@calvarygr.org)

Deacons

Ed Avink Robert Bass Gerrit Bos Steve Doren Robert Johnston Chad Kerr Tom Miller David Radde Jeff Rogers Howard Timmer Dan Wiersma Todd Wilde

If you have any questions or comments about this month’s note or other topics, please email one of the elders listed above.

Follow Up to the Elders Q&A The Elders want to thank everyone who attended our Sunday evening Ice Cream with the Elders. The questions, suggestions, and comments were very helpful and we hope that everyone enjoyed the conversation and fellowship. All the questions and comments have been distributed to the deacons, staff, and various committees for further discussion and action. Here are some of the highlights from our meeting for those who weren't able to attend.

Community Groups There were a couple of questions about community groups with some good suggestions about how to more effectively promote our Adult Sunday Classes and community groups. Community groups are an important way to welcome newcomers and help everyone in our church family feel more connected. This fall, new groups will begin at our Community Launch on October 2. If you are ready to experience life{together}, whether you’d like to join a community group or become a community group facilitator, visit calvarygr.org or contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvaholstyn@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5173.

Worship Services Several shared ideas about how to make visitors feel more welcome and how to improve our worship services. One suggestion was to encourage people to refrain from saving seats in the Sanctuary because it gives the wrong impression to visitors. Others noted that standing for long periods of time to sing can be difficult for some folks. Standing during the offering or communion also makes it difficult to serve everyone. Another suggestion was to invite more guest artists for special Sunday evening concerts. The worship team is discussing how to address these concerns.

Prayer Perhaps one of the best suggestions of the evening was to develop a prayer list for our active duty military personnel and their families. If the list included mailing addresses, then Calvary attendees could send cards and care packages over the holidays.

Q. Is there a way we can share prayer requests with our entire church family so that we can pray and care for one another? A. The church is switching databases this fall which will give us the ability to more effectively share prayer requests.

Prayer Garden Q. What's going on with the prayer garden? A. The deacons are recruiting a committee that will start working on all the details concerning where the prayer garden should be and what it will include. Calvary has also retained an architect who is working on other remodeling ideas and will also help us design the prayer garden. You will hear more information in the coming weeks.

16 | September 2011 | calvarygr.org

Saturday Night Q. Why was the Saturday Night service moved to Take Hold Church? A. Pastor Ed's vision for the Saturday Night service was to reach people who might not feel comfortable coming to a church building. As the elders evaluated this outreach, it seemed that moving our Saturday Night service into the community dovetailed with Shane Cox's desire to plant a church to those who have been disenfranchised by church. Shane preached at the Saturday night service for a year and the transition has been going well. Please pray for God's blessing on this new work. If you would like to learn more about Take Hold Church, their website is takeholdchurch.org or you can email Pastor Shane Cox at shane@takeholdchurch.org.

Facilities Q. Could we use our budget surplus to replace some of the worn carpet? A. The deacons have developed a replacement schedule to anticipate maintenance expenses. For instance, last year when we replaced an HVAC system, we did not need to take a special offering because the deacons have budgeted reserve accounts to address these issues.

Q. Would it be possible to install solar panels on our roof to reduce our utility expenses? A. The deacons have investigated solar panels, but at this point, it is not economically viable.

Architect For the past 1 1/2 years, the elders and deacons have been praying and fasting for God's direction regarding our space needs.

God is blessing Calvary Church with many new people which is wonderful, but it also creates parking issues, crowded hallways and classrooms, and more than 80% capacity in our Sanctuary.

We are considering a traffic study to address how to improve the traffic flow on and off our property. Last fall, we engaged Doug Pasma to design some conceptual drawings to address our various space needs challenges. As our preliminary thoughts take shape, we will share these possible solutions with the congregation for future discussions.

Important Meetings You may feel that you know what's going on at Calvary Church and don't need to attend informational meetings. As elders we want to encourage all members to get involved in all aspects of Calvary Church to help make us a stronger body. Please mark your calendars now to attend our Annual Meeting on Sunday, September 18 at 6:00pm. Come participate in this important meeting as we rejoice in how the Lord has blessed Calvary Church this past church year, select new elders and deacons, and discuss our vision for the future.

CALVARY CHURCH

PROGRAM GUIDE Sunday Morning Worship Service 8:10am, 9:40am, 11:15am | Sanctuary

Sunday Evening Worship Service 6:00pm | Chapel

September 2011 Church Office Hours Monday-Friday: 8:30am-5:00pm Sunday: 7:30am-12:30pm

Note: Wednesday Night programming begins September 14

Quick Connect administrative staff information in alpha order by ministry

Benevolence

Pastoral Care

Calvary Community

Senior Adults

Lynnell Bok lbok@calvarygr.org ext. 3510

Brenda Neher bneher@calvarygr.org ext. 5650

Children

Carla Boon-Julien cboonjulien@calvarygr.org ext. 5067

Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672

Regina Scovill rscovill@calvarygr.org ext. 3672

Serving

Judie Fielstra jfielstra@calvarygr.org ext. 5095

Community Outreach

Special Needs

Facilities

Students

Sharon Kaiser skaiser@calvarygr.org ext. 5077

Melissa DeBoer mdeboer@calvarygr.org ext. 5097

Library

Elleen Fitzgerald efitzgerald@calvarygr.org ext. 5623

Natalie Uecker calvarystudents @calvarygr.org ext. 5181

library@calvarygr.org ext. 5290

Technical Services

Marketing

Women

Men

Worship

Jackie Rice jrice@calvarygr.org ext. 5042

Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org ext. 3618

Missions

Chris DeHaan missions@calvarygr.org ext. 5022

Children

5th-8th Grade

October 8 | 9:00am-11:15am Join us as we unveil our new Children’s Ministry vision to all parents and volunteers. This will include our envisioned strategy addressing childhood development, biblical literacy goals, formulated gospel summary for children, etc. Please carve out this morning on your calendar to see where God is directing us as a parentpartnering ministry for years to come! Childcare will be provided for children birth through sixth grade.

R.S.V.P. to childrensministry@calvarygr.org.

September 11 | 12:20-1:00pm | Room 109 During this parent’s meeting we will discuss our events for the year, go over our Sunday and Wednesday topics, give you an opportunity to ask questions about our ministry and meet other parents of middle school students. (Snacks will be provided)

Carla | childrensministry@calvarygr.org | ext. 5067 Vision Sharing Morning

Elementary Kids Bowling Bash

October 9 | 12:55-2:30pm Kingdom Kids (five-years to fourth grade), come enjoy bowling and pizza with your teachers at Eastbrook Lanes (by Centerpointe Mall), 3500 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. Tickets are $6 per child along with one canned food item for Calvary’s Food Pantry. This cost will include bowling, two slices of pizza, one drink and shoe rental. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available t calvarygr.org until October 5 or at the Children’s Ministry Office, Monday-Friday.

media@calvarygr.org

Elaine Meredith emeredith@calvarygr.org ext. 5186

Kristen White kwhite@calvarygr.org ext. 5155

Young Adults

Mason D. Sherrill msherrill@calvarygr.org ext. 5036

Church Phone Number: (616) 956-9377

Creating a Family Road Map

October 9- 30 | 11:15am | Room 131 Family Therapist Michael Reiffer and Children’s Pastor Joel Shank will share how you can create spiritual goals for your family, and decide core values and milestones of responsibility. Includes lecture and discussion based on the Family Road Map guidebook (provided free), as well as opportunity to interact with other parents in the same “boat” as you! Ongoing parent-community groups will be explained at the conclusion of the class.

Space is limited, R.S.V.P. to childrensministry@calvarygr.org at ext. 5067 to reserve a guidebook.

calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Parents’ Gathering

The Main Event

Sunday Mornings | 9:40am 5th/6th: Room 109 | 7th/8th: Room 108 On Sunday morning we spend time hanging out, worshiping, and finding creative ways to learn more about God’s Word as a community of middle school students.

Our theme this year is Cafeteria: never dine alone. It’s our desire to emphasize to students why it’s important to be with other Christians as we grow closer to God.

5th/6th Grade

calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Deep Impact

September 30 | 6:30-8:30pm | Gym | Cost: $10 Deep Impact is a great time jumping around on inflatables, but the purpose of the event is to make a Deep Impact on the hearts of our unsaved friends. Students are encouraged to bring as many un-churched friends as possible; and we urge parents to help their students invite, bring and pray for their friends.

7th/8th Grade

calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 Guys’/Girls’ Night Out

September 25 | 5:30-8:30pm Guys - Entrance J | Cost: $12 This is an opportunity for us to make new friends, hang out together and spend time in serious and not so serious conversation. We will head to Craig’s Cruisers for games and dinner!

September 2011 | calvarygr.org | 17

7th/8th Grade Cont’d

Girls - Room 129 | Cost: $12 Come paint pottery with the girls! We will have Naked Plates on site with different items for us to paint.

High School calvarystudents@calvarygr.org | ext. 5181 UNITED 6:00-8:30pm | Room 108 UNITED kicks off for the school year on Sunday, September 11. Join a community of people who seek to know God and live for Him. Every student who comes to UNITED is placed into a small group with leaders who want to walk through life with you and have conversations about your faith.

Come check out UNITED this month as we kick off the school year – it’s the perfect place to belong!

Spaces Fall Retreat October 15-16 | Grace Adventures Save the date now for upcoming fall retreat happening October 15-16. More details available in UNITED and on calvarystudents.com.

College a community for college students Natalie | nkompik@calvarygr.org | ext. 5165 College Lunch Sundays | 12:25pm | Room 121 All college students are invited on Sunday afternoons to a free lunch. The meal begins after the third service and is a great way to get to know other college students who attend Calvary.

College Life: Thursday Night Gathering Thursday, September 15 | 7:00pm | Room 108 Are you interested in joining a diverse community of fellow college-aged young adults? Join us as we meet together as a community for worship, small groups, and teaching. This is a great opportunity to build relationships with college students from the Grand Rapids area and grow in our faith together.

College Launch Week Launch BBQ Sunday, September 11 | 12:45pm | Room 121 Come meet other college students and enjoy a free lunch while learning about how you can get involved in the College Ministry. Feel free to bring your family or friends along as well. We look forward to meeting you!

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Living a Full Life

Christian Retirement with a 21st Century Perspective Thursday, September 29 | 10:00am-3:00pm Do you wake up on fire for what’s ahead? Do you despise the idea that your best days are behind you? Is your life filled with work that makes a difference for the kingdom or are you consumed with mindless tasks?

Join Dr. L. James Harvey (author of the book Run Thru the Tape) for this new workshop designed to help you see how the last third of life is the best third! Society’s perspective has twisted us all, but it’s not too late to change our view of the golden years.

Cost is $5. Contact Regina (rscovill@calvarygr.org) at 956-9377 for more information.

Wings and Wallyball Tuesday, September 13 | 6:30pm | Hansen Center at Cornerstone University Joins us for an evening of Buffalo Wild Wings and Wallyball. Bring your team of two or three, or just show up and join a team. Not sure if you’re into wallyball? Come on out anyway and enjoy the free food, air conditioning, and some boardgame-style competition.

Grand Rapids Sampler Friday, September 16 | 5:30pm | Entrance J Don’t miss this opportunity to try four of GR’s best dining destinations. We will spend 30 minutes in four excellent local restaurants, enjoying an appetizer, soup, a main dish and then dessert. Come get a taste of GR! MErge (Ages 22-34) a community for single young adults Mason | merge@calvarygr.org | ext. 5036 Fall Kick-off September 11 | 11:15am | Room 137 Have you been thinking about getting involved in a community? Then come to this pizza party where you can hear and experience what Merge is all about.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

September 25 | 12:45pm | Room 108 It’s Game Day, Baby! Are you ready for some football – snacks – games – fun? Join Merge for a great time as we watch some football, play games, hangout and eat our favorite game day snacks. Whether you come to watch football, play some games, simply to socialize, or to enter

into the soup/chili cook-off – this event has it all. Sign up in Merge to enter the cook-off or to bring your favorite game day food.

Foundations (Ages 22-32) a community for young couples JP | jgaylord@calvarygr.org | ext. 5541 Sundays | 11:15am | Room 125 Join us this fall for our series Life 101 – why doctrine actually matters and how it influences our lives. Contact JP Gaylord for more information.

Calvary Community Brenda | bneher@calvarygr.org | ext. 5650 Monday Night Bible Study Monday (Begins Sept. 12) | 7:00-8:35pm | Chapel | Teachers: Helen Stewart and Ed Kaleefey Monday Night Bible Study is a place where men and women come together for fellowship, prayer and studying God’s Word. The study for the fall semester is Nehemiah: A Man with Heart, written by Nancy Samra. Nehemiah was the man God used to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem and a man who feared God. His life is rich in lessons for us today. Contact Dave Thrasher at 243-6603 (men) or Carol Spencer at 942-4743 (women) if you have any questions.

Family Tree Adult Sunday Class Sundays | 11:15am | Room 106 We invite you and your family to join our class on September 25 as we kickoff our new series on mentoring. We look forward to learning together as we study Jesus’ example of men-

toring His disciples. Small group interaction and prayer for one another will also be part of each session. We look forward to meeting you. For more information, contact Mike Still at 698-3164.

live a life of hope and the promise of a changed tomorrow.

Adult Sunday Classes Adult Sunday Classes are made up of various size groups of people that meet for fellowship, education and outreach. Find a class that’s perfect for you. There are classes for adults of all ages, stages and interests from singles to parenting teens to senior adults. For exact location and class descriptions, pick up a copy of the Adult Sunday Classes brochure at the Information Center or online at calvarygr.org.

Family Life Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Marriage Prep Workshop Sundays, October 9-23 | 1:00-5:00pm | Yellow House | Cost: $75 per couple We believe it is necessary to know as much as possible about each other going into marriage. It is important to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, as well as faith and fears, in order to build your relationship into all that it can be – into all that God intended it to be.

Contact Regina to register.

Compassion Ministries Lou | ldegraaf@calvarygr.org | ext. 3618 DivorceCare September 6-November 29 | 6:30-8:30pm Room 140 | Cost: $20 This 13-week class gives hope and encouragement to those who are experiencing separation and divorce. If you, or someone you know is going through a divorce, please join us.

Honeymooner’s Class Did you know that your first year of marriage is one of the most important years of your relationship? It sets the course for your future together.

We want to make sure your marriage starts with a solid foundation, one based on Biblical principles that will stand the test of time. If you are in your first year of marriage join us for this 12-week class starting in October. Contact Regina for details.

DC4K (Divorce Care for Kids) September 6-November 29 | 6:30-8:30pm Room 140 | Cost: $15 (Scholarships Available) DC4K provides a safe, neutral, fun place where children learn to understand their feelings, express their emotions appropriately, improve their self esteem, develop coping skills and are introduced to biblical concepts that bring comfort. A typical evening is filled with activities, discussions, journaling, music, a story and video dramas. Please note that DC4K is designed to run alongside of DivorceCare for adults. The topics covered in DC4K correlate with those discussed in the adult sessions. Childcare will be provided for children birth through preschool.

men men@calvarygr.org | ext. 3618 Men’s Breakfast September 10 | 8:00am | Fellowship Hall (Room 129) | Cost: $5 (payable at the door) Take advantage of this opportunity to sign up for the Bible Studies that will begin the following week. Our leaders will be there to answer your questions while you enjoy a full, hot breakfast.

The Big D: Divorce Through the Eyes of a Teen September 6-November 29 | 6:30-8:30pm Room 152 | Cost: $15 (Scholarships Available) “The Big D” is a ministry designed to encourage and empower teens to deal with their feelings, fears and emotions while experiencing the divorce or separation of their parents. This 12-week session equips teens with the God given tools to

Fundamentals of the Faith 2 Begins September 14 (open to women) | 6:308:00pm | Room 130/132 | Cost: $20 Begins September 16 | 6:30-8:00pm | Room 130/132 | Cost: $20 How do we know the Bible is God’s Word? What is sin and where did it come from? How is Jesus fully God and fully man? If you’ve asked questions like these, then “systematic theology” is no abstract term. It’s an approach to finding answers every Christian needs to know in order to live a life that glorifies God. Fundamentals of the Faith 2 – Bible doctrine, takes a deeper dive into the doctrines that define the Christian faith and is recommended for those who are very familiar with the Bible.

Men of 6:10 September 13 - May 29 | 6:10-7:15am | Fellowship Hall (Room 129) This Bible study, for the early riser, digs deeper into the book of Matthew with other men who want to build relationships and pass their faith on to others. Register by email (men@calvarygr.org).

Men’s Fraternity 3 – The Great Adventure September 13-May 15 | 6:00-7:30am | Room 130132 | Cost: $10 The Great Adventure explores a man and his world beyond the everyday. The 20-session study helps men rediscover the adventure in life through a greater understanding of who they are.

It will challenge men to consider several important questions, like “Who am I?”, “What are my life dreams?”, “Do I have courage to pursue those dreams?”. Register by email (men@calvarygr.org).

Man Up September 13-May 15 | 6:00-7:30am | Room God has commanded us to make disciples. We are all on a journey of reaching Christian maturity.

The final phase is reproduction. This course will provide you with the training and the tools to accomplish what God has commanded us all to do.

Register by email (men@calvarygr.org).

Men of 7:24 September 17-May 19 | 7:24-8:45am | Room 114 on September 17, October 8 and November 12; Room 122-126 all other weeks Whether it be prophecy of His coming kingdom, historical sections showing His working in men’s lives or letters of instruction in His ways, all our studies in the Word equip us to know Jesus better and become more like Him as we follow and serve. Register by email (men@calvarygr.org).

Pastoral care Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Confident Caregivers September 19 | 11:30am -1:00pm | Room 123 Confident Caregivers of West Michigan is a monthly support group for sharing needs, questions, answers and encouragement. Please join us for our 10th Annual Indoor Picnic. Bring a dish to pass. R.S.V.P. by September 11 to Regina.

September 2011 | calvarygr.org | 19

Chera September 20 | 6:15pm | Room 129 Chera is a support group designed to reach out with the comfort found in Jesus Christ to those who have lost spouses. Chera has a monthly dinner with special guest speakers who address various topics relating to your journey. R.S.V.P. to Marian Mason at 554-9262 if you plan to attend.

Mental Illness Support Group September 27 | 7:00pm | Room 114 On a national scale, an estimated 4.5 million Americans have a severe mental illness. Getting these individuals into a continuous mode of treatment is a challenge facing many families.

This group is designed to offer families the help, encouragement and support they need. Contact John or Betty Walker at 956-6141.

GriefShare Workshop September 6 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 207 | $20 This 13-week seminar and support group, led by facilitators who understand what you are experiencing, is for people grieving the loss of someone close. It will offer you comfort and encouragement during this difficult time as well as give you the opportunity to interact with others who have experienced a recent loss. For more information, contact Regina.

Contact Jan Dykstra at 560-9639 to see if this confidential group is right for you.

sus” and the process that follows. * There is no class on September 4.

Lies Women Believe October 12 | 6:30-8:00pm | Yellow House This ten-week Nancy Leigh DeMoss study sheds light on how we can be set free to walk in God’s grace, forgiveness and abundant life. Claim the truth and find freedom. If you’re interested in joining this support group, contact Regina.

Explorers (Children with Special Needs) Sundays* | 11:15am | Room 114 Explorers Sunday morning class is an interactive, sensory-based learning excursion through God’s Word! We are exploring God’s Word to learn and grow in Him through our own abilities. As we continue on in our adventure, we are equipping our students to learn in an environment that best suits their needs as followers of Christ. Some of our students start their journeys with Explorers with the ultimate goal of inclusion within Calvary’s community. * There is no class on September 4.

Prayer & Fasting for the Unemployed Thursdays | 12:00-1:00pm | Chapel Please join us every third Thursday for a time of prayer and fasting for the unemployed.

Prayer Group for Prodigals First Sunday of the Month | 8:10am | Room 207 Almost all of us know someone who accepted the Lord somewhere in the past and now that person has slipped away from God and is living for self.

This prayer group unites our hearts as one to pray our loved ones back to the Savior.

Special needs Elleen | efitzgerald@calvarygr.org | ext. 5623 Go-Getters (Adults with Special Needs) Sundays* | 11:15am | Chapel The Go-Getter class is growing in size as well as knowledge of God’s Word. Their studies this fall will include the book of John, and additional BibSeptember 7, 14, 21, 28 H.I.S. – Healing Injured Sisters lical characters. The students continue to care for 6:30 to 8:15pm September 13 | 6:30-8:00pm and pray for others with such sincerity and love.

Have you been hurt from past physical or emoGod is actively work that in the hearts and minds calvary church worship at | music makes a difference tional wounds? Are you ready to begin the jour- of the Go-Getters! 26 students have requested to ney of healing? Join us for an eight-week study either be baptized or join the church in the last learning what it means to move past your hurt 6 months. Mentors are needed to bring them by seeking to understand God’s mercy and grace. through our booklet “Understanding Faith in Je-

saturday, october 22 9:30am - 2:30pm

Location

calvary church onLine RegistRation

www.disabilityconference.org

f R o m b R o k e n n e s s to c o m m u n i t y For more details, contact Judi Warner at jwarner@clcnetwork.org or 616-245-8388.

20 | September 2011 | calvarygr.org

Seekers (Youth with Special Needs) Sundays* | 11:15am | Room 112 In Seekers, we are equipping ourselves with the armor of God! We are discovering how to “wear” God’s armor every day by actively studying His Word. Through the use of different fine motor skills and stimulating activities, Seekers are equipping themselves with important values, engaging in them, and demonstrating them to others. When we put on God’s righteousness, truth, peace, faith, salvation, prayer and spirit we can stand boldly and firmly against sin and do what is right. * There is no class on September 4.

Art Class Wednesday | 6:00pm | Room 114 Expression through visual art is one way the students of the Special Needs Ministry glorify God the Father using the gifts and talents He has given them. With the help of artist and Ministry Volunteer Rick Shaafsma, students learn to use and create with different art mediums.

Sign Language 101 Wednesday | 6:00-6:30pm | Room 215 What a blessing it is to open one’s mouth and speak. What an equally wonderful blessing it is to lift one’s hands and do the same. Within the Special Needs community, sign language is a way to tear down communication barriers and also to praise the Lord. The community at Calvary, as well as around the world, has and will continue to have a growing need for sign

language, not only for those who have no other form of communication but also anyone interacting with them.

Join us as Lin Sanborn teaches basic sign language. This is a great opportunity to be able to communicate with individuals in our church community who can only do so through the means of sign language, as well as the greater community outside of Calvary. For more information, contact Elleen.

Special Needs Ministry Choir Wednesday | 6:00-6:30pm | Chapel Come lift your voices together with the Special Needs Ministry Choir! Students from our ministry will be learning scripture songs with the help of volunteer Katelin Kimble in the Chapel from 6:006:30pm. For more information, contact Elleen.

Hope Network Outreach Reaching out to others with the love of Christ is what happens on the third Thursday of each month. A small group of volunteers share God’s love with up to 200 adults at Hope Network’s 36th Street campus. Please consider joining this small community of believers as they seek to honor God by ministering regularly at Hope Network. Contact Elleen for additional details.

A Note Regarding Inclusion God is blessing inclusion throughout the church in a variety of settings from children through adult.

Inclusion settings often need volunteer support and encouragement. If you feel God is leading you into this ministry, you are encouraged to contact Elleen for additional information.

Praise & Worship Service September 17 | 1:00-3:00pm | Sanctuary Community outreach praise and worship services take place monthly. For more information, contact Elleen.

Senior Adults Regina | rscovill@calvarygr.org | ext. 3672 Monday Monthly Luncheon September 12 | 10:20am | Fellowship Hall Cost: $7 Join us this month for “Loving Individuals in Final Transition” with Tom Lothamer of Baptist for Life Inc. Please make reservations with Howard & Ar-

the

Be gin s reg Sep ist tem er tod ber 1 ay 3, !

GATHERING PLACE Tuesday morning Women’s

Bible∙ Study

Pick up a Women’s Ministry Catalog for a registration form

lene Timmer at 365-0728, Virginia Claybrook at 940-1807, or Terry & Linda Markham at 247-8619

by September 7.

Wednesday Morning Bible Study Wednesday | 9:30am | Chapel Join us this Fall as Tom Couch continues his series from the book of Genesis 11 ”Learning to Live by Faith” - studies in the life of Abraham. Our first meeting will be on September 7. Refreshments are served from 9:30-9:50am, and the study begins promptly at 10:00am.

Hymn Sing September 25 | 7:30pm | Chapel Come lift your voices as we rejoice together with the timeless hymns you know and love. Our hymn sing will begin following the evening service.

Maury Lehmann will lead us in singing.

Women Elaine | emeredith@calvarygr.org | ext. 5186 Calvary Home Educators Fourth Friday of the Month | 9:30-11:30am Room 135 Are you considering home education for your family? Are you a veteran homeschooler who would like some encouragement and support?

Calvary Home Educators is a group of moms who meet monthly to encourage and support one another through our homeschooling journeys.

We invite you to join us. The first part of our meeting is an art lesson for the children, taught by our members. After the art lesson, the children attend childcare while the adults learn and fellowship. For more information, contact Cindy Gronsman (gronsman@sbcglobal.net) at

682-4930.

First Place 4 Health September 15-December 8 First Place for Health is a Biblical approach to weight loss and overall health management that meets weekly on Thursday mornings. Books will be available through the leader. A one-time membership kit is required – please speak to leader before purchasing. Space is limited and pre-registration is necessary. Contact Christy Lewis (tcjaclewis@comcast.net) at 954-7989.

MOPS Thursdays (1st/3rd/5th) | 9:00-11:15am Fellowship Hall (Room 129) | MOPS Int’l Annual Registration Fee: $23.95 Semester Fee: $25 MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers and is an international organization that exists to encourage, equip and help women become the best moms that they can be! Women who are pregnant or have young children (birth through kindergarten) are all invited to join MOPS. Childcare is provided. Registration forms are available at calvarychurchmops.blogspot.com and at the Sanctuary Information Center.

Pick up a Women’s Ministry Catalog Women, pick up the new 2011 Fall Catalog to see all of the opportunities for women here at Calvary! Don’t miss out on a chance to get connected!

September 2011 | calvarygr.org | 21

SErving Opportunities Children’s Ministry Fall is coming and it’s not too late to join this exciting team in changing children’s lives for eternity!

There are opportunities to serve Sunday mornings and WOW on Wednesday evenings in every area of giftedness - in the classroom, or behind the scenes. Contact childrensministry@calvarygr. org at ext. 5053.

Lunch with Students - We have a team that goes to GVSU’s English Language School and meets with the students during their lunch breaks. It is an awesome opportunity to build relationships with these students as they seek to improve their English.

If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Cynthia Sommerfeld at 6767292.

First Impressions Team Members Needed We have six teams that you can choose to be part of this vital ministry: Welcome, Greeting, Parking Lot, Connection Point (formerly the Visitors Center), Information Center and Café Greeting. Contact Judie Fielstra (jfielstra@calvarygr.org) at ext.

5095 to sign up or to learn more.

Shut-In Ministry If you have a heart of mercy for those who are lonely and compassion for those who are suffering, please prayerfully consider joining the ShutIn Ministry Team. This ministry is dedicated to reaching out to Calvary members who are no longer able to attend church services and functions.

Contact Rich Dyer (richguy101@comcast.net).

Neighbors International We are expanding the ministry of Neighbor’s International this fall. We need many volunteers!

Some of the various ways you can minister include: Airport Greeters - We need volunteers to meet students at the airport and welcome them to our country. You will not be required to drive them or take them anywhere.

Friendship Partners - We are in need of families and singles who will commit to meet with your assigned international student at least one time a month. We will even have some of the activities planned for you!

Prayer Partners - We cannot effectively minister without many people praying for Neighbor’s International.

Bible Study Leaders - For many international students, being in America provides them the opportunity to study the Bible for the first time.

Therefore, we are starting Bible Studies and we are looking for individuals who would be willing to lead or co-lead. We will provide you with the materials to study.

Van Drivers - We have fun events planned for the students, but they won’t happen unless we provide transportation for the students. Would you consider driving your own van or being certified

by Calvary to drive one of the church vans?

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Special Needs Ministry The Special Needs Ministry is always in need of new volunteers in all aspects of our community.

Volunteers help coordinate and plan events like a Mom’s Spa Day, Festival of Lights, Parent Date Night, Summer Picnics, Movie Nights, and more!

Our Sunday morning classes and Wednesday evening programming are also great places to serve.

Did we spark your interest? Come and observe a class or an event and see for yourself if the Special Needs Ministry is where God is calling you to serve. For more information, contact Pam Cook (pcook@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5163.

Sundays in Elementary A group of volunteers will be building an ark for October 2 when we study Noah and the flood.

Children will also be able to serve others by bringing in gently used stuffed animals to “fill the ark” for two weeks. These stuffed animals will be given away to children of families who use the Yellow House ministry. If you would like to join the fun and impact of ministry in children’s, contact childrensministry@calvarygr.org at ext. 5053 Worship Teams The worship team is looking for musicians. If you play the drums, bass, guitar or sing, we would love to hear from you, please contact Andy Crowder (acrowder@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5612.

Giving opportunities Lynnell | lbok@calvarygr.org | ext. 3510 Attention all Gardeners If you have been blessed with an abundance of fresh produce this year, we can help expand your blessing by passing it along to Calvary’s Food Pantry at the Yellow House. For best time to drop off your perishables, contact Lynnell.

Food Pantry It’s back to school time and our pantry needs the following items to help provide healthy lunches for kids.

• Peanut butter • Single serving snack items • Jams & jellies • Honey • Pretzels • Cookies • Butter • Fruit • Juice boxes Clothes Closet Kid’s school clothes and cool weather items for the whole family are needed: long sleeve shirts, sweaters and light weight jackets. Please bring in items that are clean and in good condition.

Your donations are greatly appreciated. If you have questions about the food pantry or the clothes closet, contact Lynnell Bok. School Supplies Needed School has started and your help in providing the following supplies will bless many Calvary kids in need: • Backpacks • #2 Pencils • Pens • Pencil boxes and sharpeners • Erasers • Crayons • Colored pencils • Colored highlighters • Spiral notebooks • 3-Ring binders • Pocket folders • Lined paper • Rulers • Scissors • Glue sticks and bottled glue • Calculators

september calendar Sunday Monday tuesday Wednesday For all recurring weekly events, please refer to the web calendar at calvarygr.org or the back of the Sunday bulletin.

5

4 Family Service No morning classes or evening service.

Nursery: Birth-35 months

Labor Day - Church Offices Closed

6

7

5:30pm 7th/8th Guys’/Girls’ Night Out 7:30pm Hymn Sing

saturday 2

8

9

3

10 8:00am Men’s Breakfast

GriefShare Workshop Begins

15

14 9:00am MOPS Begins

WFD Menu: Oven-Fried Chicken Wednesday Night Programming Begins

16

17

5:30pm 7:24am College: Grand Rapids Men of 7:24 Begins Sampler 1:00pm Special Needs Praise & Worship Service

6:00pm Sign Language 101 Begins Special Needs Art Class Begins

21

22 12:00pm Prayer and Fasting for the Unemployed

28

29 30 10:00am 6:30pm Seniors: Living a Full 5th/6th Deep Impact Life Workshop

WFD Menu: Spaghetti

23

Third Monday Missionary Prayer

25 26 27 11:15am Memorial Day 7:00pm WFD Menu: Family Tree Mentoring Church Building Closed Mental Illness Family Taco Salad Series Begins Support Group 12:45pm Merge: Are You Ready for Some Football?

friday 1

6:30pm DivorceCare, DC4K and The Big D Begin

8:10am Prodigal Prayer Group 13 12 11 10:30am 6:00am 11:15am Men’s Frat. 3 Begins Seniors Luncheon Merge: Fall Kick-off Man Up Begins 7:00pm 12:20pm Monday Night Bible 9:00am MSM Parent’s The Gathering Place Study Begins Gathering Study Begins 12:45pm 6:10am College:Launch BBQ Men of 6:10 Begins 6:00pm 6:30pm High School UNITED College: Wings & Fall Kick-off Wallyball 18 19 20 11:15am 11:30am 6:15pm Membership Class Confident Caregivers Chera 6:00pm Annual Meeting

thursday

24 8:00am The Men’s Conference: Winning the Battle Within

Welcome to calvary church Welcome to Calvary Church! We know there are many churches you could have chosen to attend and we are glad you chose to be here.

We believe that you are not here by accident, that God has brought you to this place for a specific purpose and we look forward to assisting you in any way that we can. We also believe that everyone who attends Calvary needs to be in community.

It is in community that people experience the true blessings of life in Christ and life with one another. Please take time to find the community that is right for you, or plan on attending the all church Community Launch on Sunday, October 2 to get connected with a group.

Lee Content Pastoral Staff, Calvary Community

Need More Info?

Go to the Connection Point located through the Sanctuary doors on the right as you exit (in the Chapel wing) or stop at the Information Center at the back of the Sanctuary.

Media Center: For past sermons or a series on CD, the Media Center is located through the Sanctuary doors on the right as you exit (in the Chapel wing).

Children’s Activity Boxes: Located inside the Sanctuary doors by the Children’s wing.

Explore Calvary This staff-led, four-week class is for people to learn more about Calvary, take a tour of the building and find out what your next steps in connecting may look like. Contact Sharon Kaiser (skaiser@calvarygr.org) at ext. 5173.

Pastoral Need If you have a need and would like to speak to a pastor, please call the main church number, 956-9377 or email pastoralcare@calvarygr.org. A pastor is always available.

Sundays at Calvary Connection Point

Our Connection Point is a place where you can receive a warm welcome, whether this is your first time at Calvary or your sixteenth. The Connection Point is your place for information on connecting at Calvary Church. It is located in the Chapel wing of the building, on your right as you exit the Sanctuary, in room 215a.

Calvary Café

9:00am-11:15am in the Gym The Calvary Café is designed to give you the opportunity to mingle with other attendees between services. Stop in for a cup of coffee and a donut. From discussing the morning’s sermon to catching up on your community group leader’s recent vacation, the Calvary Café is a great place to gather for conversation.

Adult Sunday Classes

Find a class that’s perfect for you. There are classes for adults of all ages, stages and interests, from singles to parenting teens to senior adults. For exact location and class descriptions, pick up a copy of the Adult Sunday Classes brochure at the Information Center or at calvarygr.org.

Special Needs

Adult (Go-Getters): 9:40am *Youth (Seekers): 11:15am *Children (Explorers): 9:40am & 11:15am

Room 112 Room 110 Room 114

*Pre-registration recommended

Children’s Ministries

Young Fives - Fourth Grade: 9:40am and 11:15am Visit the check-in desk at Entrance K on the lower level to register.

Nursery Care: 8:10am, 9:40am and 11:15am For infants birth through preschool. Visit the check-in desk at Entrance M on the upper level to register.

Student Ministries

Middle School (MSM): 9:40am

5th & 6th Main Event (Studying Genesis)

7th & 8th Main Event (Studying Genesis) High School (United): 6:00pm (Studying Genesis)

Young Adults

Merge (Singles 22-34): 11:15am Foundations (Young Couples 22-32): 11:15am College Lunch: 12:45pm

Room 109 Room 108 Room 108 Room 137 Room 123 Room 121

Community is a place where you belong; a place where you develop relationships with other believers and do life together.

When you experience true community, you have close friends who meet together, pray together, grow together in God’s Word, and care for one another. In community you will be loved; you will be valued; you will be transformed more into Christ’s image. If you realize it is time to engage with people in a new way and want to be a part of a community group, visit the Connection Point on Sunday mornings or sign up at calvarygr.org.