Fall Calvary Life 2025

Fall Calvary Life

2025

Fall 2025 SEPTEMBER · OCTOBER 3

Fall Program Guide Your guide to the activities at Calvary Church this upcoming season.

& Missions 11 Mercy Updates from our Mercy & Missions Team on ministry changes, values discussions and the impact of your giving.

16 Adult Bible Study

Learn more about bible study opportunities available for adults as we look at the Gospel of John this Fall.

17 Deacon Updates

Our Adult Bible Study deacon offers insight into what her role looks like and how God has brought transformation through her service.

Volunteer Opportunities Serving Facilitator, Neil Kassuba, highlights opportunities for you to volunteer for and offers an encouraging reminder on why we serve.

Nominees 20 Elder At our Annual Meeting on October 26, members will select new elders. Learn more about men nominated for this position, in this issue.

Care 22 Bereavement Learn more about those who serve the grieving in our community by putting pen to paper.

Cancer Courage 23 Finding Discover the support offered by Our Journey of Hope and their team of volunteers.

Project Update 24 Jerusalem The Jerusalem Project is celebrating milestones from the past year of ministry.

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR Summer is at its mid-point as I write this.

While school supplies have shown up in the aisles at Meijer, there are still plenty of beach days, bonfires and picnics to be enjoyed. I hope in these last weeks, you have enjoyed a night of live music with your fellow seniors.

I hope you have camped with your church friends. I hope you have eaten a popsicle at the park, played kickball in a kiddie pool, witnessed a wild science experiement, and made a new friend along the way. This life we’re living together at Calvary — digging into our faith, holding one another up in prayer, mourning our losses and celebrating the fruits of this season — it’s a good, good life. And as the calendar turns, I promise you it only gets sweeter!

In this issue, you’ll see that Calvary has communities for all ages, as well as learning opportunities, and ways to serve. If you are enjoying the Sunday morning worship service but haven’t gone beyond that, I hope you’ll consider taking your next step this fall. We believe that God has you here on purpose and we would be happy to help you navigate that further. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff !

Finally, we’d love to feature more stories from the Calvary congregation in our worship services. Testify to your church family how Jesus has transformed your life! Email your story to info@calvarygr.org with the subject: Testify, and we’ll be in touch.

Here’s to believing together that in Christ, we have a good, good life.

Jackie Rice

Director of Communications jrice@calvarygr.org

707 E Beltline Ave NE Grand Rapids MI 49525 Mailing Address: PO Box 1600 Grand Rapids MI 49501

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Ph (616) 956-9377 Fax (616) 956-9723 calvarygr.org CalvaryChurchGR calvarygr

FALL 2025

PROGRAM GUIDE S U N D AY M O R N I N G S Worship & Prayer

9:00am Classes

Sunday Morning Worship Service Calvary Church Sanctuary 9:00 & 10:45am

Ambassadors | Chapel A medium sized teaching-oriented class comprised of senior adults.

Both services are identical. Join us!

All services are also streamed live at calvarygr.org. In September, we will begin a new series in the Epistles of John.

Faith Builders | Room 260 A medium sized teaching-oriented class of couples and singles 40s-60s.

Calvary Church welcomes people of all abilities. Special accommodations including reserved seating and wheelchair assistance are available. Inclusive worship is encouraged for all - in the Sanctuary with additional spaces available for those with sensory sensitivities. Many hearing aids offer hearing assistance by selecting the t-coil setting on your device. You can take advantage of this feature on the main floor behind row 6 of the main seating area. For more information, please contact Zach Schmuck (zschmuck@ calvarygr.org) .

Pre-Service Prayer 8:30-8:50am | Room 211B Come pray with the morning’s teaching pastor and other participants that God would bless our worship services. All are encouraged to join.

Boiler Room Prayer 8:50-11:55am | Room 212 Pray over every aspect of the service as the Holy Spirit leads, assisted by a request sheet composed by staff. Open to all, come and go as able.

Adult Sunday Classes Adult Sunday classes are committed to engaging deeply with the Bible and authentic biblical community. The focus of each class is growing in God’s Word, care, prayer, and community. Visit a few of the classes to see where God may lead you.

Questions? Contact Karen (kvanholstyn@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5173.

Family Tree | Room 251-253 | Does not meet on the 1st Sunday of the month A medium sized multi-generational sermon discussion class focused on doing life together as we pray for one another and share what God is teaching us through the Sunday sermons. First Sunday is a potluck at someone’s home after second service.

Growing in Relationships | Room 261 Meet 2nd, 4th & 5th Sundays A large teaching-oriented class of married, single, and remarried adults.

L.A.C.E. (Living After Christ’s Example) Room 255 | Does not meet on the 2nd Sunday of the month A small teaching-oriented class for women of all ages and life stages.

Young Marrieds | Room 264 | Meets September-May | Designed to create community among newly married and engaged couples, while learning to keep Christ at the center of our relationship.

10:45am Classes Faith & Fellowship | Room 264 A medium sized sermon discussion class of all ages and life stages.

Heirs Together | Chapel A welcoming community of adults who love biblical principles, prayer, missions, revival, member care, and ministry to others. Not meeting in August.

Journey | Room 265 A large, teaching-oriented class of all ages and life stages.

Legacy Builders | Room 106A A small discussion style class of all ages and life stages that studies the Bible inductively verse by verse.

Sojourners | Room 252 A medium-sized teaching-oriented class comprised primarily of senior adults who are seeking to become more intergenerational.

Kids 9:00 & 10:45am (Nursery - Fourth Grade) Check-in: All children need to receive their nametags at the check-in area at the bottom of the stairs, then be escorted by a parent or guardian to the room number printed on their name tag.

Inclusion is encouraged for children of varied abilities, K – 4th grade. If extra support is needed, an individualized Care Plan can be developed alongside our facilitator, Pamela Cook, (pcook@ calvarygr.org).

Holiday Sundays: August 31, October 26.

On these Sundays, only nursery & preschool are available in Calvary Kids. We encourage families to worship together on these days.

Students 5th-8th Grade: Sunday Class Unit 1: Apostles | Sept. 21-Oct. 5 Unit 2: Patriarchs | Oct. 19-Nov. 2 10:30am | Room 108 | $5 56 & 78 are hosting a joint Sunday class.

This joint parent/student class is a supplement to Sunday’s worship service. This year we are going to be walking through the topic of church history, and taking a look at how we as the church have lived out the great commission over the last 2,000 years.

Register at calvarygr.org/5678sunclass.

Koinonia | Room 260 A medium sized sermon discussion class of all ages and life stages who love Jesus.

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S U N D AY N I G H T S

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Sunday Night programming begins September 7; on this night only all classes begin at 7:00pm. We will observe a Fall Break on October 26. There will also be no programming Thanksgiving weekend, November 30.

Students

Adults

High School Ministry - Begins September 14 6:30pm-8:30pm | Room 208 (Entrance E)

Rooted – A Small Group Experience Sundays, September 14 – November 16 4:00-6:00pm | Room 261 | $20 Register at calvarygr.org/classes

Welcome to High School Ministry!

At HSM, our goal is to help students become ROOTED in a personal relationship with Jesus—so they can grow full of love, walk in truth, engage in meaningful community, and live fruitful lives wherever they go (Colossians 2:6–7, Philippians 1:9–11).

We’re all about growing deeper in faith and having a ton of FUN along the way.

Every Sunday night, we come together to play games, worship, hear a teaching, and have real conversations in small groups. After that, stick around for Overtime—an extra hangout time until 9:30pm to relax, connect, and build friendships.

Come as you are—we’re excited to grow with you!

Are you looking to better connect to community here at Calvary? Rooted is a new experience designed to connect you to God, the church, and your purpose.

Together, in groups of 10-15 people from all walks of life, you’ll explore the Bible, engage in prayer and serve experiences, share stories, and practice rhythms essential to a healthy spiritual life.

These spiritual rhythms aren’t new, or something the church recently created, every one of them is found in Acts 2 where the early church began.

Calvary Care: Loving Your LGBTQ+ Child Well This class is for parents of children who identify as LGBTQ+. We will use a series of videos produced by Dr. Preston Sprinkle, followed by a guided discussion with the aim for you to learn to continue to love your child well. Meets: Room 255 Questions? Contact: Christie Thompson at 616-956-9377 ext 5628 or cthompson@ calvarygr.org

NOTE: Rooted is a 10-week experience.

Commitment is key to the experience and success. We ask that you ensure you can attend 70% (7 out of 10) of the gatherings. This is a kindness to you and the rest of the group.

SANCTUARY

Worship Night SEPTEMBER 7 · 6:00PM

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W E D N E S D AY N I G H T S Wednesday Night programming begins September 10. We will observe a Fall Break on October 29. There will also be no programming on Thanksgiving Eve, November 26.

DeMoss (kdemoss@calvarygr.org) about scholarship opportunities.

Fifth-Sixth Grade (56) Wednesdays | 6:15-7:45 | Room 108 Register at calvarygr.org/56 The foundation of the Wednesday Night experience at Calvary is the Wednesday Fellowship Dinner. A hearty, healthy meal featuring a rotating entree, pizza or chicken nuggets, and a salad bar. More than just solving the equation of what you’ll have for dinner on a busy weeknight, WFD is a lowstakes opportunity to gather around the table with your church friends.

It’s a casual time for community that you don’t have to organize or plan - just show up! Every week is a chance to meet someone new or deepen an existing relationship.

BEGINS SEPTEMBER 10 4:30-6:30pm Gathering Place Cost: $7 $28 max per immediate family

Calvary Kids: Kids-N-Action Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm | $10 per child Children from birth through 4th grade are invited to join us on Wednesday evenings for our Kids-N-Action programming! It is our desire that children understand what God says in the Bible, believe it, and put it into action in their daily lives. KNA is designed to foster social interaction through Bible stories, electives, and small groups while facilitating spiritual growth in learning how to put your faith into action! Register at calvarygr.org/kna.

The $10 registration fee helps us offset the cost of some really fun things we will be giving away to your child! If cost is an issue, reach out to Kirsten

We will have large group worship, small group discussions, and free time activities all centered around our study of the Word this year. This framework along with engaging video skits and our loving leaders helps to create a space where students can feel known, loved, cared for, and trained up in truth as we gather together each week!

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or if you are just beginning to live out the Great Commission. Contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org) with any questions.

Healing Injured Sisters Book Study Wednesdays | 6:30-8:00pm | Entrance J Have you been hurt from past physical or emotional wounds? Are you ready to begin the journey of healing? Jesus desires to bring you healing and restore what has been taken from you.

He wants to set you free so you can live an abundant life in Him and give encouragement to others.

We will be kicking off our nights early from 5:30-6:00pm for some game time in the gym, but our doors officially open at 6:15! We will study the book of Revelation in our series, Revel. We hope to see you on Wednesdays!

Join us for a study learning what it means to move past your hurt by seeking to understand God’s mercy and grace.

Space is limited and registration is required. There will be a one-time fee of $10 to cover the cost of the book collected the first meeting. Register at calvarygr.org/his. Questions? Contact Christie (cthompson@calvarygr.org).

The Conversation - Jump in anytime!

6:30-7:15pm | Room 215

Intercessors / Prayer Chain 6:30-7:45pm | Room 212

In The Conversation, our goal is to create a spontaneous community comprised of anyone who might walk into Calvary.

Together we seek out scriptural truth, transparency in our lives, truth in repentance, and take time to just fully love on one another by the power of Jesus Christ our Lord! Questions? Contact Sara Blue (sblue@calvarygr.org)

Open to anyone interested in praying for Calvary Church, its congregation, pastors, staff, volunteers and programming.

Meet to pray over requests emailed through week. Submit requests to Cindy (cmarrell@calvarygr.org).

Seventh-EIghth Grade (78) Wednesdays | 6:15-7:45 | Room 208

Discipleship 101 Wednesdays, September 10 – October 22 6:30-7:45pm | Room 252-254 | $5 Register at calvarygr.org/classes Are you ready to help others grow spiritually? This class will provide a helpful resource guide for discipleship that covers essentials like how to help someone write their testimony, share the Gospel, pray and read the Bible. We’ll talk about accountability, stewardship and multiplication. Come as a refresher

A Man & His Work Wednesdays, September 10 – October 15 | 6:30-7:45pm | Room 265 | $10 Register at calvarygr.org/classes A Man and His Work is part of the Authentic Manhood 33 series of sixweek sessions that gives men a vision for manhood as modeled by Jesus in His 33 years on earth. An inspiring vision of work from God’s bigger perspective.

Contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@ calvarygr.org) with any questions

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A Man & His Marriage Wednesdays, October 22 – December 10 6:30-7:45pm | Room 265 | $10 Register at calvarygr.org/classes

Wednesday Night Women’s Bible Study Begins September 10 | 6:30-7:45pm Limited Space | $20 (for both semesters) Pre-Register by September 8 at 12:00pm

Bring life to your marriage by building it around God’s grace and for His glory.

A Man and His Marriage is part of the Authentic Manhood 33 series of sixweek sessions that gives men a vision for manhood as modeled by Jesus in His 33 years on earth.

While the children are in Kids-N-Action, moms and working women come together for growth in God’s Word, prayer, and community. We are excited this year to study the Gospel of John. An eyewitness and disciple of Jesus, John wrote an account that looks into eternity to grasp the spiritual meaning of the events and words of Jesus in a way that the other three gospels do not. Join us as we discover who Jesus is through amazing signs and testimonies of God’s faithfulness to the world!

Parenting Adult Prodigals Wednesday, October 1 – December 17 6:30-7:45pm | Room 261 Register at calvarygr.org/classes A 10-session class to bring help and support to parents with adult children (18+) who are making destructive choices. We’ll seek to apply biblical principles to our stories that give the best hope for your prodigal to turn to the Lord and restore your relationship. Don’t try to take the journey alone. Class size is limited. Contact Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org) with any questions.

Rooted – A Small Group Experience Wednesdays, Sept. 10 - Nov. 19 6:30-7:45pm | Room ? | $20 Register at calvarygr.org/classes This Wednesday night session is intended for those who need childcare. See our Sunday evening session on page 4 if childcare is not needed.

Are you looking to better connect to community here at Calvary? Rooted is a new experience designed to connect you to God, the church, and your purpose.

Together, in groups of 10-15 people from all walks of life, you’ll explore the Bible, engage in prayer and serve experiences, share stories, and practice rhythms essential to a healthy spiritual life.

These spiritual rhythms aren’t new, or something the church recently created, every one of them is found in Acts 2 where the early church began.

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Note: The same study is offered on Monday evenings for both men and women. Register for Monday evening at calvarygr.org/classes.

Using your Spiritual Gifts Wednesdays, September 24 – October 22 6:30-7:45pm | Room 251 Register at calvarygr.org/classes You have been given a special gift by the Holy Spirit in order to build up the church body! Come and discover your spiritual gift and how you can use it. In this course you will be equipped with a greater understanding of how spiritual gifts work in the church and the next steps to using your gifts for God’s glory.

Unshackled Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm | Room 256 Unshackled is a weekly Bible study designed for men who are transitioning out of the jail/prison system and looking to build a firm, biblical foundation to help them grow and maintain their walk with Christ. Questions? Contact Lou DeGraaf (ldegraaf@calvarygr.org).

KIDS & STUDENTS Calvary Kids

Birth-Fourth Grade Contact: calvarykids@calvarygr.org

Child Dedication Sunday, October 5 | 4:00-5:30pm Parents have the opportunity to commit their children to the Lord at our Child Dedication services. Family members and friends are welcome to join in the celebration and show their support. If you would like to dedicate your child(ren), registration is required.

Parents will also attend a breakfast meeting the day prior, to discuss the significance and importance of child dedication.

Register at calvarygr.org/childedication by September 19. If you have any questions email Ann Bagley (abagley@calvarygr.org).

Trunk-or-Treat Saturday, October 18 | 2:00-4:00pm Join our Calvary Family for a community outreach event this fall in our very own parking lot at Calvary Church! This trunk or treat event is for EVERYONE at Calvary and there are multiple ways to get involved. Find more info on page 19.

Fifth & Sixth Fifth-Sixth Grade

Contact: Darcy Walukonis dwalukonis@calvarygr.org

56: Wednesday Nights Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm See page 6 for details.

Small Group Night September 12 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 108 Get ready to connect, share, and grow together. Your small group will get to have some fun with a specially picked activity for you! It’s the perfect chance to build friendships and strengthen your faith with a supportive community. So, put on your team spirit and get ready to cheer each other on! Let’s go, small groups! Register at calvarygr.org/56. Event is free.

Minute to Win it!

October 10 | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 108 | Free Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, get ready for the most thrilling, the most suspenseful, the most ridiculously fun small group game night you’ve ever witnessed; Minute to Win It: Small Group Edition! Prepare to be amazed as you battle the clock in a series of wacky and wild challenges.

These aren’t your grandma’s board games – we’re talking household items transformed into instruments of hilarious competition. Only the quickest, the cleverest, and the luckiest will emerge victorious!

So, gather ’round, cheer on your favorites, and get ready for a night of side-splitting, nail-biting, minute-to-win-it madness!

Register at calvarygr.org/56.

Seventh & Eighth Seventh-Eighth Grade Contact: Darcy Walukonis dwalukonis@calvarygr.org

78: Wednesday Nights Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm See page 6 for details.

Vibe Night September 12 | 6:30-8:30pm | FREE Meet & Pick Up: Room 208 Hey groovy cats! Ditch the squares and join us for Vibe Night, a far-out evening of pure chill vibes. Our youth space will transform into a haven of good times, with games, tasty snacks, and plenty of space to just hang loose. Let your inner party animal go wild as you connect with your fellow peace-loving friends. Come as you are, bring your best vibes, and let’s make it a night of pure, unadulterated vibes.

Register at calvarygr.org/78.

Schwallier’s Shenanigans!

October 11 | 6:00-8:00pm | $15 1185 9 Mile Road NW Well, howdy there, neighbor! Gather ’round the ol’ barn for Schwallier’s Shenanigans.

We’re talkin’ s’mores ’round the fire, apples ripe for pickin’, and a corn maze that’ll have ya’ laughin’ ’til the cows come home. Come on down and enjoy a good ol’ fashioned farm evening, where the fun’s as plentiful as the pumpkins in the patch. Don’t be a stranger, now! Register at calvarygr.org/78.

Fall Retreat November 7-8 | Cost: $70.00 Meet & Pick Up: Room 208 Join us for our annual 7th & 8th grade fall retreat! This year we will be spending time together at Pine Ridge Camp. We will have fun activities, games, and time to focus on the practice of prayer, calling our students to deepen their walk with God by inviting Him into every facet of their lives! We can’t wait to see you from November 7-8!

Register at calvarygr.org/78.

High School 9th-12th Grade

Contact: Darcy Walukonis dwalukonis@calvarygr.org

High School Kickoff: The Fall Out! September 14 | 6:30-8:30pm | Free Meet and Pick-up: Room 208 (Entrance E) From summer back to HSM. We have all the fall favorite games and activities to get ready to fall back into the year with us. Get ready to dive into the crisp, cozy magic of autumn at The Fall Out! A vibrant celebration filled with laughter, games, and heartwarming connections! From pumpkin chunkin and corn hole throwin to bonfire vibes, cider and donuts, there’s something for everyone. So grab your flannel, bring a friend, and come ready for an evening of fun, food, and fellowship under the golden leaves. Let’s welcome the season—and each other—with joy!

Fall Retreat: Be Still and Know October 24-26 | $155 Join us at Gull Lake Ministries for our high school retreat, Be Still and Know.

This is more than just a getaway—it’s an opportunity to pause, breathe, and encounter God in the stillness. Together, we’ll explore what it means to be fully present with God and with each other as we unplug from the noise, build meaningful relationships, make memories, and connect with God. Don’t miss this chance to slow down, be still, and know. Register at calvarygr.org/hsm.

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A D U LT S

All Adults

Contact: Karen VanHolstyn kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org

Monday Night Bible Study - Fall Semester Begins on September 15 | 7:00-8:30pm Gathering Place | $20 for both semesters Pre-register by noon on September 8 at calvarygr.org/classes.

We are excited this year to study the Gospel of John. An eyewitness and disciple of Jesus, John wrote an account that looks into eternity to grasp the spiritual meaning of the events and words of Jesus in a way that the other three gospels do not. Join us as we discover who Jesus is through amazing signs and testimonies of God’s faithfulness to the world!

Men and women come together for large group teaching and gender specific small group discussion of the lessons.

Freedom in Christ Thursdays, September 11 – November 20 6:30-8:30pm and October 25 from 9:00am-4:30pm | $10 Register at calvarygr.org/classes Do you know how to walk in your Freedom in Christ? Are you experiencing a lack of joy, unforgiveness, depression, or lack of spiritual growth? Do you feel like you’re stuck in a cycle of sin-confess-sin-confess but never truly break free from road blocks? Are you struggling with knowing, believing and acting on the Truth of Scripture? Join us for this 10-session class to learn practical, proven ways to overcome by the power of prayer in Jesus name to address these issues your life. An important part of this series is an all-day Saturday session that will be October 25 from 9:00am-4:30pm.

Forever Hope Adoptive & Foster Care Contact: Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org

Adoptive & Foster Moms Book Study September 24, October 8 6:30-7:45pm Calvary Kids Family Room Join other adoptive/foster moms for inspiring discussions. We will be reading Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus.

Become Like Him. Do as he Did by John

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Mark Comer. Questions: contact Sheri Schmidt (sschmidt@calvarygr.org) at (616) 956-5524.

Men

Contact: Jessica Henkaline jhenkaline@calvarygr.org

Basketball Mondays | 6:30-9:00pm | Gym Men’s open gym pick-up basketball. This is a great opportunity for men (age 19+) to enjoy some fellowship over a good game of basketball. For more information contact Mike (mensbball@calvarygr.org).

Men at Noon Tuesdays | 12:00pm | Zoom This group of men meet weekly throughout the whole year to do an inductive Bible study. Contact Russ (menatnoon@calvarygr.org) for details.

Men of 6:10 Begins September 17 | 6:00-7:30am Room 265 (Entrance K) Inductive study of the book of Ezekiel meets on Wednesdays. Contact Earl (menof610@calvarygr.org) for more information.

Men of 7:24 Begins September 6 Saturdays | 8:00-9:00am | Room 265 Journey through the Bible to discover what God is saying and to grow and mature as an active disciple of Christ Jesus. Contact Denny (menof724@ calvarygr.org) for more information on this group that meets each Saturday.

Men of Prayer Third Tuesday | 6:30-7:30am | Room 253 We need prayer warriors now more than ever! Join the praying men of Calvary church for a one-hour prayer meeting on the third Tuesday of the month. There will be a brief devotional, worship, and a time of inviting the Lord’s presence in united prayer. Coffee will be available and you will be out by 7:30am.

Men’s Futsal Pickup Begins September 4 | 7:30-9:00pm Room 208 (Entrance C) Would you like the opportunity to play this fun and exciting game? Join us at Calvary for Thursday or Friday night

pickup Futsal! Futsal is 5 on 5 indoor soccer played on a hard pitch. It is a fast-paced game with lots of opportunities to sub in and out with other players. You can drop in for a half hour or stay for the whole night. Grab a friend and join us for some friendly fun. Students age 16+ are welcome with a parent. Contact is Eddie (eduardo.ramirez.mx@gmail.com).

Men’s Breakfast September 13 | 8:00-9:30am | $5 Room 208 (Entrance D) Register at calvarygr.org/men Join us for the exciting beginning of our Men’s Breakfast series where we’ll dive into the incredible life of David, starting with the iconic story of David and Goliath.

This isn’t just an ancient tale; it’s a powerful message revealing what the Lord has to say about the battles we face today—some of which feel as daunting as giants! Come for a morning of fellowship, worship, and encouragement as we begin this journey with David.

Men’s Fall Retreat – Wrestling with God October 10 at 6:00pm-October 11 at 2:00pm Timber Wolf Lake | $95 Get ready for our annual Men’s Overnight Retreat at Timber Wolf Lake! This is your chance to step away from daily routines, connect with God, and build deeper bonds with brothers in Christ.

This year, our focus is “Wrestling with God,” a powerful study on the life of Jacob. We’re thrilled to announce a special partnership with Indwelling, New Heart, and Wellspring churches! You’ll hear messages from Adam Anderson and Clarence Stamps, along with Andy Crowder leading us in worship. We can’t wait to see how the Lord moves among us. Of course, we will have lots of fun and fellowship too. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity! Grab a friend and sign up today at calvarygr.org/mensretreat.

Limited scholarships are available.

Chili Cookoff & Cornhole Tournament October 23 | 6:00-8:00pm | Gathering Place Calling all men! Prepare your taste buds and test your aim! Our annual Men’s Chili Cookoff and Cornhole Tournament is almost here. Break out that top secret chili recipe and compete for bragging rights and first place prizes! Don’t cook? No sweat! Come enjoy the chili

throwdown, try your hand at cornhole, and catch up with your brothers-in-Christ.

It’ll be an evening of chili, fellowship and friendly competition. Visit calvarygr.org/ men to register.

OASIS (Senior Adults) Contact: Carla Julien cjulien@calvarygr.org

Oasis (60+) Singles Game Night October 4 | 6:00-9:00pm | $10 1771 Grand River Dr NE, Ada Bring your favorite game and enjoy a catered dinner from Olive Garden. It is a privilege to enjoy the beautiful setting of Two Fish for our evening. R.S.V.P. to Gladys.

Oasis Bible Study Wednesdays, Beginning September 10* 9:45-11:00am | Gathering Place

Oasis (60+) Singles Sunday Lunch October 5 | 12:30-2:30pm | $20 Blue Water Grill

Oasis has the wonderful privilege to journey through the book of John. To recapture and reexplore our first love, Jesus, and to deepen our abiding faith in Him. So, come, see, know, and believe, Jesus, our Messiah! This is a great time of fellowship, worship and Bible study. No registration needed.

Meet for a tasty lunch and good fellowship right after church. Cost of lunch will be on your own. Contact Gladys if you plan to go.

*Not meeting October 26 - Fall Break Oasis Luncheon & Hymn Sing October 6 | 10:00am-12:00pm | $14 Gathering Place Are there church songs that you miss singing? Then come join us as we gather together to enjoy the hymns of our faith, and worship God with word and song. All are welcome so bring a friend to share good food and fellowship with! Register at calvarygr.org/events to purchase your ticket before September 28.

OASIS Singles (60+) Contact: Gladys Ramsey oasissingles@calvarygr.org

Oasis (60+) Singles Sunday Lunch September 7 | 12:30-2:30pm Rose’s, 550 Lakeside Dr SE Meet for a tasty lunch and good fellowship right after church. Cost of lunch will be on your own. R.S.V.P. to Gladys.

Oasis (60+) Singles Fall Kickoff September 20 | 5:30-8:30pm | $10 Room 208 (Entrance D) Come an enjoy pizza and salad (bring your own beverage) and meet Pastor Don Hancock (Senior Adult Pastor) as he encourages us from the Word. We will have time for singing and playing group games. R.S.V.P. to Gladys.

Renew Crew Contact: Lynnell Bok lbok@calvarygr.org

Renew Crew Serve Day October 25 | 8:00am-12:00pm Join us for a great opportunity to make some new friends and help others in need! Renew Crew seeks to show Christ’s love through acts of service with home improvement projects. We will be doing a variety of jobs for people in our church and community who need a helping hand. Meet us in Room 256 (Entrance K) for some coffee and breakfast before we break up into teams and get to work!

Women

Contact: women@calvarygr.org

Tuesday Morning Women’s Bible Study Tuesdays, Beginning September 16 9:15-11:15am | $20 (for both semesters) Pre-register by noon on September 8 at calvarygr.org/classes.

We are excited this year to study the Gospel of John. An eyewitness and disciple of Jesus, John wrote an account that looks into eternity to grasp the spiritual meaning of the events and words of Jesus in a way that the other three gospels do not. Join us as we discover who Jesus is through amazing signs and testimonies of God’s faithfulness to the world!

You will be placed in a small group where you will discuss the lessons and then come together as a large group in the Gathering Place for teaching. Throughout the year we will have optional small group socials and opportunities for “Table Talks” as well.

Tuesday Kids is a wonderful place for children ages birth to six years old. Moms must be in attendance at Bible Study at Calvary while children are in the class.

For a virtual option, contact women@ calvarygr.org for availability.

Wednesday Women’s Bible Study Begins September 10 | 6:30-7:45pm See page 7.

Embrace: Women Embracing Motherhood Together First, Third & Fifth Thursdays Begins September 4 | 9:00-11:15am Gathering Place Embrace is a warm community where faith is strengthened through friendships, mentoring and sound teaching for Moms with babies and young children. The Embrace theme this year is Shalom – “Peace I leave you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

(John 14:27) We would love to have you join us for fellowship, mentoring, devotions, breakfast and insightful speakers.

While you are enjoying a time with other Moms, your children will be lovingly cared for in our Embrace Kids nursery.

Children must be registered in order to take advantage of this opportunity.

Questions? Email embrace@calvarygr.org.

Register for Embrace at calvarygr.org/ embrace. Cost: $100/year. Partial scholarships available, upon request.

Prayer Shawl Ministry Second & Fourth Thursdays, Beginning September 11 10:00am-12:00pm | Room 215 (Entrance C) Do you enjoy knitting or crocheting? We would love to have you serve with us in the Prayer Shawl Ministry. We meet the second and fourth Thursday each month for a time of prayer, devotions and fellowship while creating prayer shawls. You can join us in person or work from home and we supply yarn and patterns.

Blessed2Bless Prayer September 30 | 11:30am-12:30pm November 12 | 11:15am-12:15pm Room 215 (Entrance C) As we continue to step out in faith into our neighborhoods, workplaces and

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friend groups with simple Bible studies (Women’s Ministry has these resources), you may need encouragement to carry on or maybe God has been prompting you to take the first step. Blessed2Bless gatherings are for prayer and encouragement as we continue to reach out.

Homeschool Moms First Fridays, Beginning October 3 9:30-11:30am | Room 139 Calvary’s Homeschool Moms meet once a month for a time of prayer and building community. We invite you to join us on the first Friday of the month, October through May. Children are welcome and we provide care, activities and a place for studying. For additional questions, contact Andrea Reiffer (areiffer@ calvarygr.org) or women@calvarygr.org.

Young Adults

College & Career (Ages 18-30) Contact: Abby Nuenke anuenke@calvarygr.org

Tuesday Nights Tuesdays | 8:00-9:30pm | Room 208 (Entrances D & E) We exist to help Young Adults know God and actively live out their faith where they live, work, and play. So, come encounter Jesus in a community of young adults through worship music, teaching, testimony, and friendship. Doors open at 7:30.

For updated information on events and other happenings at YA, head to our linktree: https://linktr.ee/ya.calvarygr.

Fall Kickoff Tuesday, September 9 | 7:30-10:00pm | FREE Calvary Church, Patio Entrance D No Registration Required YA IS BACK! Join us for our Fall Kick-off – a night of community, worship, and fun as we head into a new season together. You won’t want to miss it!

Art Prize Event September 19 | 6:00pm | FREE Meet: Downtown Grand Rapids Join the YA crew as we grab some food, wander downtown, and interact with all ArtPrize has to offer. Whether you’re an art lover or just here to hang out, it is going to be a masterpiece of a night. We can’t wait to see you there.

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Fall Retreat October 10 -12 | Cost: $110 Camp Geneva | 3995 Lakeshore Dr. N.

GriefShare Support Group Tuesdays, Beginning September 9 6:30-8:30pm | Room 261- 265 (Entrance K)

Worship. Retreat. Bonfires. Lake Michigan.

Community. Games. YA Fall Retreat at Camp Geneva is the perfect weekend to slow down, worship and make new friends.

We can’t wait to see you there! Register at calvarygr.org/ya by October 3.

GriefShare is a 13-week support group for those grieving the loss of someone close.

GriefShare is a safe, welcoming place where caring people understand the difficult emotions of grief. You’ll learn helpful ways of coping with grief, discover what to expect in the days ahead, and gain solid support every step of the way.

CARE & SUPPORT GROUPS Contact: Christie Thompson cthompson@calvarygr.org

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings Sundays – Women’s Stag 5:00-6:00pm | Room 112 (Entrance G) Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 7:30-8:30pm | Rm 112 (Entrance G) Monday-Friday 12:00-1:00pm | Rm 112 (Entrance G) Al-Anon Thursdays | 7:30-8:30pm | Room 110 (Entrance G) Tuesday Women’s Meeting 7:00-8:00pm | Room 114 (Entrance G) Al-Anon is a program of recovery for the families and friends of alcoholics, whether or not the alcoholic recognizes the existence of a drinking problem or seeks help.

Avenue Help for men who are struggling with pornography and/or sexual brokenness.

Contact avenue@calvarygr.org.

DivorceCare Tuesdays, Beginning September 9 6:30-8:30pm | Room 264 (Entrance K) DivorceCare’s life-changing support groups welcome people and guide them on the path of recovery after separation or divorce. Over 1 million people have found comfort and hope through this 13-week, video-based series. Register at divorcecare.org.

A one time fee of $20 applies to this support group, and is collected on your first meeting date. Questions? Contact: Christie Thompson (cthompson@calvarygr.org) at (616) 956-5628.

There is a one-time fee of $20 to cover materials when you register. Register at griefshare.org. Questions? Contact: Christie Thompson (cthompson@calvarygr.org) at (616) 956-5628.

Hannah’s Heart Support for those grieving a miscarriage or the loss of an infant. Contact: Deb Donker at (616) 363-7818 or Judy Wetters at (616) 433-1533.

Mental Illness Support Group Second Thursday | 6:30-8:00pm | Rm 255 If you are caring for a loved one with mental illness, this support group is designed to give you encouragement, training and fellowship with others walking a similar journey. Contact mentalhealth@ calvarygr.org with questions.

Our Journey of Hope Cancer Care One-on-one support ministry partnering cancer patients with trained Cancer Care Volunteers who will walk alongside them to provide hope and encouragement on their cancer journey.

P R AY E R Contact: Cindy Marrell (cmarrell@calvarygr.org)

Elder Prayer First Tuesday | 6:15-7:15pm Contact: Cindy Marrell at ext. 5997 Are you seeking healing? Do you need others to come alongside you right now?

Experience the encouraging power of prayer with the Elders. Schedule a time and let us come before the Lord with you in this season.

High School Parents Prayer First & Third Sundays (September-May) 5:15-6:15pm | Room 207 Starts with the HSM team sharing what

they see God doing in the youth group as well as prayer requests, then lifting those before the throne of our gracious God. No sign up necessary. Your student that rides with you can hangout in the hall outside of Room 208.

Jerusalem Project Monthly Prayer Second Sunday | 10:20-10:40am Room 110 Pray for the Jerusalem Project. Sign up for our monthly prayer email, contact: jp.prayer@calvarygr.org.

Pastors’ Prayer Partners Sundays | One Service Monthly Receive weekly updates from the Pastoral Staff via email or postal mail. Your role is to pray with a team of prayer warriors during one service a month and pray in your own home regularly.

Prayer For the Persecuted Church Fourth Sunday | 10:15-10:40am Room 110 Pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who are suffering for their faith. Register for our prayer list by emailing a request to prayerforpersecuted@calvarygr.org.

Third Monday Missionary Prayer Third Monday | 11:30am-12:30pm Room 255 (Entrance K) Join us in person, with virtual option, to hear updates and pray for our missionaries around the world.

SERVING Midweek Daytime Serving Children & Moms Women’s Ministry offers Tuesday Bible Study and Thursday Embrace Moms during the week, both of which present opportunities to minister to young children through songs and Bible stories.

Programs run September through May, every Tuesday or most Thursday mornings. Serving Opportunities:

•

Caregivers who can play with and care for children ages 6 and under

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Both men and women welcome to join our Kid’s Team

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Flexible options available: join our regular team or sub list

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Wonderful serving opportunity for couples or friends who would like to serve together

Contact Jessica (women@calvarygr.org) at 616-956-5186 for openings or to be added to our sub list.

Emergency Awareness While many things may happen while at church, there are certain emergency events that may take place that everyone should know how to respond to: Medical Emergencies – Report all medical situations to the Emergency Response Team (ERT) use help phones located throughout the facility Missing Person - Report all missing persons by contacting the Emergency Response Team (ERT) by using the Help Phones; providing a detailed description and last know location.

Fire Safety – If the fire alarm sounds, exit the building calmly and orderly. Family reunification will occur outside at designated locations.

Loss of Power to the Whole Church – If this were to happen there would be emergency lighting that would allow everyone to find their way out of the building. All church activities would be cancelled, parents would pick up their children as normal and the building would be secured until the power was restored and further programing able to resume.

Security Concerns – Report any suspicious activities to the Emergency Response Team (ERT), use help phones located throughout the facility Disruption / Active Assault – If it is a life threating situation we use the Run (Avoid), Hide (Deny), Fight (Defend) principles.

Run (Avoid) Depending on the location of the situation some may see the danger and run away from it, putting as much distance possible between them and the threat.

Hide (Deny) Others may lock themselves in a secured area until they know where the danger is and that it is safe to leave.

Fight (Defend) If for some reason you could not get away from the danger, then you need to fight as your life depends on it, using whatever means available.

Once a situation is realized members of the ERT will assist in directing people away from danger.

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K U R T N OR T R E AT

Saturday, October 18 · 2:00-4:00pm Calvary Parking Lot Outside Entrance A Join our Calvary Family for a community outreach event this fall in our very own parking lot at Calvary Church! Drivers and their families will decorate their cars, sometimes creating elaborate scenes out of their trunks! Then kids from our community and our church will walk from vehicle to vehicle dressed in their cutest costumes, collecting candy as they would trick-or-treating.

For those of you joining in the TRUNK portion – there will be prizes given for our top three decorated cars! If you want to join in on the fun and hand out candy from your car, register at calvarygr.org/trunk.

T R U NK

Please plan on 400-500 kids stopping by your car to get candy and/or play a quick game. Cars will be directed to park in Lot 4, near Entrance A. Candy Scholarships are available – please don’t let that stop you from participating. Simply contact Ann Bagley, Co-Director, and Calvary Kids can sponsor your car.

T R E AT HE LP

For those of you joining in on the TREAT portion – dress up your crew in their costumes and simply show up. Invite your friends and neighbors to join you and enjoy this safe place to trick-or-treat. Registration is not required. Trick or Treaters will be directed to park in Lot 3, Entrance A.

If you would love to HELP SUPPORT this event but don’t want to run a Trunk – Starting on October 1, we will be taking candy donations! Look for the blue bins at the top of the stairs leading to the kid’s area.

If the weather is bad, we will move the event inside!

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MERCY AND MISSIONS

Renewing Our Values

As fall is upon us now, I am approaching my two-and-a-half-year mark as the Minister and Director of Missions. It has been an amazing time getting to know our congregation, staff, and global partners who are making Christ known to the ends of the earth. I count it a blessing to be in this role and to engage in this meaningful work.

About one year into my role, I was asked by Calvary’s Leadership Team to prayerfully consider what a renewed focus and direction should be for our Missions Department. This resulted in extended times of prayer and fasting and study over Paul’s missionary journeys as well as other key passages from scripture. After several months of this, a series of values emerged which were given to the Calvary Leadership Team for consideration and feedback.

Once these values were refined and affirmed by the Leadership Team, the next step was to prayerfully discern how well our current group of global partners align with these values. More than rigid policies, these values serve as guideposts that we use to to pray through decisions related to the makeup of our global partners. Our overall goal is to steward well the resources that God has entrusted to Calvary’s Missions Department by aligning our budget with the values that He has led us to.

Larry Milks Minister & Director, Missions

To better accomplish this, a four-person Missions Values Task Force was convened earlier this year. Together we have prayed, studied, and communally discerned where we think God is asking us to make adjustments regarding the global partners that Calvary supports.

At the time of writing this update, we are currently in the final stages of this discernment and will soon be making recommendations for the Leadership Team to pray over.

In the spirit of Psalm 25:4-5, we are asking the Lord to show us His ways and to teach us His paths because our hope is in Him. We do not want to make these decisions in our own strength or relying on human wisdom. We pray that God may be pleased to guide us and help us to be a church that invests its resources in ways consistent with the values He has given us.

Summary of Missions Department Values: In light of Calvary’s current substantial investment in local and regional gospel work, and the overwhelming missions giving of the global church going to currently reached areas, the Calvary missions department values placing most of its departmental funding into the biggest gap, that of reaching the unreached.

(Gen 12:1-3, Ps 67:1-4 & 7, Is 24:14-16, Is 49:6, Matt 28:1920, Acts 1:8, Acts 13:47, Acts 17:30b, Rom 10:14-15, Rom 15:20-21, 1 Cor 3:5-6, Rev 5:9-10, Rev 7:9) We value meaningful relationships with our missionaries so that they are engaged with portions of our church body, communicate updates and prayer requests at least quarterly if not monthly, and ask for wisdom, prayer and discernment for significant things such as possible position or location changes. (Acts 14:26, Acts 15:4, Acts 18:22, Acts 21:19) We value partnership with the local church where the missionary serves, if a church already exists there. (Acts 15:36, Acts 16:5)

We value incarnational ministry where the global worker lives cross-culturally and has natural connections with locals, learns their language and culture, and thus has many organic opportunities for ministry, further enhancing their credibility and fruitfulness in the context they are serving. (Acts 17:16-34, Acts 18:3, 1 Cor 9:19-23, Jesus’ example of an incarnational life) We see Barnabas and Paul training up others to do the work with them as they go on their journeys, and so we value this discipleship multiplication ministry among our own missionaries as well. (Matt 9:37-38, Acts 13:5, Acts 13:36-41, Acts 16:1, Acts 18:1-3, 1 Cor 16:19) Personal integrity and holiness are critical for representatives of gospel light to a dark world. In general, both male and female missionaries should be held to the same qualifications we see in the bible for church leadership (above reproach, hospitable, faithful to spouse, self-controlled, etc.). (Acts 16:25, Acts 16:40, 1 Tim 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-8)

We value seeking the Lord’s voice in all of life and particularly in ministry. (Acts 16:6-10, Acts 18:20)

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Extending God’s Love

Community Grants & Outreach Highlights At Calvary Church, we are committed to living out the gospel by serving our neighbors in both word and deed. We do this through community outreach grants and service initiatives with trusted local partners. Thanks to your faithful giving and willing hearts to serve, we’ve seen tangible impact across our city—and we’re excited to share a few highlights.

Strengthening Our Partners Through Grants This year, your generosity helped support:

Alpha Grand Rapids We provided financial support toward renovation plans of Alpha’s facility, originally built in 1950. The updates will address long-overdue safety concerns and improve accessibility, ensuring the center remains a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone it serves—including women and families facing unexpected pregnancies.

Matters of Life and Breath This ministry focuses on the spiritual and emotional needs of widows, fulfilling God’s call to care for the vulnerable. Our support is helping to fund their annual widows’ conference, offering encouragement, biblical counseling, and community for women navigating their annual widows’ conference, offering encouragement, biblical counseling, and community for women walking through grief and transition.

Sista2Sista Founded by the executive director of Urban Family Ministries, this new organization offers family empowerment programming rooted in Christ. Their work addresses everything from family dynamics to financial freedom, providing holistic support to those seeking healing and wholeness.

Hope Unexpected When supplies ran low at the end of the year, Calvary stepped in to provide much-needed diapers and wipes to help meet urgent needs for the moms and babies served by this Christ-centered support network for single mothers.

West Michigan Youth for Christ – Byron Center We helped with the launch of Taylor Janson’s ministry as the new YFC leader working directly with students at Byron Center High School. Your giving helped encourage and equip a new season of student outreach and discipleship in our local schools.

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Serving Hands-On Across the City

In addition to financial support, many of you showed up and served—and that makes all the difference. Here’s what we accomplished together: Packed snack bags with Hand2Hand, helping ensure local children have access to food over the weekends.

Collected Christmas gifts for refugee families at West Michigan Friendship Center and families connected to Urban Family Ministries, bringing joy and dignity to those who often go without.

Donated adult bikes to Upcycle Bikes, giving reliable transportation to individuals rebuilding their lives.

Visited and ministered at Mel Trotter Ministries, where our team shared the Word of God and partnered with their Bridge of Hope program—a powerful initiative that walks alongside families experiencing houselessness.

As a church, we are deeply thankful for the ways you give, pray, and serve. Because of you, our mission to “make Christ known through word and deed” is not just a statement—it’s a living testimony, visible in every bag packed, every bike donated, and every soul encouraged.

If you’d like to get involved in our upcoming outreach efforts or learn more about our grant partners, please reach out to Vida Wilson, vwilson@calvarygr.org.

Let’s continue to love our neighbors as Christ has loved us.

Vida Wilson Director, Mercy & Outreach

Your Invitation To

Experience Alpha

As believers, we deeply desire for our friends and family to experience the joy and peace we've found in Jesus. We long for them to know the hope that anchors us in difficult times and the purpose that gives life meaning. Most importantly, we yearn for the assurance of their salvation. But how do we effectively introduce them to this life-changing truth without making them feel pressured or preached at? How do we invite them to "come and see" what we've discovered, especially if they're hesitant about church or anything "religious"?

We understand the hesitation in recommending something without truly knowing what it entails ourselves. For example, we wouldn't typically recommend a book we haven't read, or a restaurant we haven't tried. That's precisely why we're so excited to invite you to our upcoming "Experience Alpha" Luncheon!

This event is designed specifically for believers who are eager to share their faith but want to feel confident in the invitation. It's your personal preview, your behind-the-scenes look at the Alpha Course, so you can confidently invite your non-Christian friends and family to our Fall 2025 Alpha class.

Fall 2025 · Alpha at Calvary Begins September 11 at 6:00pm This course will run for seven consecutive Thursdays, from 6:00-7:30pm, beginning on September 11. Pray about inviting your non-Christian or new Christian friends or family members to Alpha – it will be a blessing to you both. Sign up both yourself and your invitee(s) at calvarygr.org/alpha.

While there, check out “Annabel’s Story,” a powerful testimony.

Your Exclusive Sneak Peek: The "Experience Alpha" Luncheon Join us on Sunday, August 24, at 12:30 pm, in Room 208 (next to the gym) for an immersive "Experience Alpha" luncheon.

This will be more than an informational meeting; it will help you understand what your invited friends and family would experience should they attend our Fall 2025 Alpha class.

Like a typical Alpha session, you will (1) enjoy a meal, (2) watch an engaging Alpha video, “Is there more to life than this?” (the same video shown at the first session of Alpha), and (3) have a brief time of discussion at your table.

We'll have ample time for Q&A. This is your opportunity to ask any questions you have about Alpha, how it works, what kind of people attend, and how you can best support your friends and family as they explore faith. We want to equip you with all the information you need to confidently extend that invitation.

We can't wait to share the Alpha experience and partner with you in fulfilling our role in the Great Commission. If you have any questions about the luncheon, or about Alpha in general, please feel free to contact me anytime.

Dave Weiskittel Alpha Leader davewc6@gmail.com

Did You Know?

RSVP at calvarygr.org/alphalunch by August 18, so we can plan accordingly.

“Alpha at Calvary” is a seven-week series of interactive sessions exploring the basics of the Christian faith. It's designed for people who might not identify as Christians, who are invited by a close Christian friend or family member. Each session includes a meal, a short video, and a small group discussion where no question is too simple or too complex. Alpha creates a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space for honest conversation about life's biggest questions, such as: "Why am I here?", “Is there more to life than this?”, "Is there life after death?" The beauty of Alpha is its focus on open dialogue and genuine connection, allowing individuals to explore faith at their own pace.

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Neighbors Intern Internati rnat atii nal nal Faith-filled moms. Love-filled homes. Inte

Calvary’s International College Student Ministry

Say hello to our newly re-branded ministry for single moms! In 2020 God led Christina Leskovar to introduce a single moms ministry at Calvary Church using a curriculum called “Embrace Grace.” Since that time, God has grown a sweet community of moms, as well as a passionate team of additional leaders, to minister to single moms at Calvary. This fall marks our five year anniversary loving on single moms!

This Summer, God led us to a fresh new name for this ministry, now called “Flourish Single Moms.” We are thrilled to be able to support moms in all seasons of motherhood, in their faith, in community and even provide assistance with some of the tangible needs so many single moms face. We are also excited to share the wonderful new curriculum we will be journeying together this September with all interested moms, called “Cradles of Grace”, created by the Pregnancy Resource Center.

Flourish Single Moms Ministry is a community of moms, rooted in faith and growing together at Calvary Church. Whether you’re navigating motherhood as a single mom or alongside a spouse, you are welcome here. Our mission is to help every mom develop deep spiritual roots, blossom in all areas of life, and thrive in her unique motherhood journey. Through meaningful connection, encouragement, and Christ-centered support, we believe that when moms flourish, families do too!

For more information, to join this support group, or for info on volunteering on our Care Team, please email Christina at: flourish.calvarygr@gmail.com

Friendship Families are Needed for Fall SIGN UP NOW!

NEIGHBORS INTERNATIONAL, Calvary Church’s international college student ministry is growing!

Friendship Families / Partners are needed to befriend International college students arriving this fall.

You will be matched up to a student(s) who live close to you and share similar interests. These students are lonely and experiencing culture shock and are longing for a family that can welcome them and help them.

Requirements to join the ministry: • Must be 30 or older • Complete an application, background check and attend training • Meet with your assigned student(s) at least once a month and talk to them weekly • Plan fun activities to do with your student, invite them to your home, celebrate holidays with them • Help them with needs they might have SIGN UP OR FOR MORE INFORMATION on how you can befriend an international college student arriving this fall, contact Sonja at neighbors_international@ calvarygr.org.

We will also have an information table at Calvary by the Connection Point on Sundays, August 10 and 17.

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One Teen’s Testimony Hey! My name is Kate Seiler. I have been a volunteer for CarePortal through my church for about two years now. Watching my mom work for CarePortal and being able to join her in meetings and connections showed me that God often works through simple, everyday actions.

Even though I may be young, that doesn’t mean that I can’t make an impact in someone’s life.

CarePortal is a technology platform that connects churches with the real-time needs of children and families in crisis—shared by local child welfare workers, non-profit leaders, social workers at schools, and many others that are already working with vulnerable children. When a need is submitted, churches in the area are notified and can respond with support, such as providing beds, clothing, or transportation. It’s a simple way for the Church to step in and show the love of Jesus through practical help.

This past fall, a request came in to the CarePortal platform that really jumped out to me. It was for an adult male in foster care who was in need of a winter coat - nothing too out of the ordinary, but what made this request stand out to me was one small detail: he loves Star Wars. That note felt so human. It made me think about how we all have something that brings us comfort or makes us smile—whether it's a favorite movie, a sports team, or a song.

Even though I didn’t know this young man, I wanted to do more than just check off a need on a list. I wanted to help him feel seen.

I started the search for the perfect coat. One that was warm, and, of course, Star Wars themed. I couldn’t find one with the right fit

or style, but I still wanted that personal touch, so along with the winter coat I picked out, I added a cozy knit hat that was Star Wars themed. It wasn’t much, but it felt like a way of saying, we see you, you matter.

I sent the coat and hat directly to the caseworker, and I got an email back from her, expressing how thrilled he was to have a warm winter coat, along with a hat that was comfortable and just what he loved. That one coat didn’t solve everything. But it meant he didn’t have to be cold. It meant someone saw him—not just as a need in a system, but as a person with favorite movies and preferences and personality.

Volunteering through CarePortal reminds me of Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Helping meet a need may not seem like a big deal in the moment. But when we offer what we have with love, God uses it in ways we may never see.

I’m grateful to be part of a church and a ministry that teaches me that—even at 17, I have something to give.

I still think about that man. I don’t know his story or where he is now, but I pray that when he put on that coat and hat, he felt warmth—not just from the fabric, but from the fact that someone cared. Being part of CarePortal has shown me that ministry doesn’t always look like preaching or traveling across the world and that Christian life goes far beyond reading my bible and attending youth group. Sometimes it looks like buying a coat.

Sometimes it looks like noticing the small details. And sometimes, it looks like showing up—one request at a time.

So to everyone reading this, even teens—yes, you can be the hands and feet of Jesus. Right now. Right where you are.

Whether it’s through CarePortal, youth group, or simply helping a neighbor, don’t underestimate what God can do through your yes.

If you would like more information about CarePortal, contact Sheri Schmidt (sschmidt@calvarygr.org).

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ADULT

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Behold & Believe

Discovering Jesus in the Gospel of John

unique

W A Y S T O P A R T I C I P AT E

MONDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY BEGINS SEPT. 15 · 7:00-8:30PM

BEHOLD and BELIEVE A ST U DY O F T H E G OSP E L O F J O H N

Combines small group discussion with 20 minutes of large group teaching for both men and women. Small groups are gender specific.

TUESDAY MORNING WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY BEGINS SEPT. 16 · 9:15-11:15AM Combines small group Bible Study discussion with large group teaching and testimonies in the Gathering Place. Tuesday Kids is a free program for children while moms are in the study.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY BEGINS SEPT. 10 · 6:30-7:45PM Limited availability While children are in Kids-N-Action, moms and working women come together for growth in God’s Word, prayer and community.

REGISTER at calvarygr.org/classes

by Sept. 8 at 12:00pm Cost: $20 for Both Semesters

This year we will be studying the Gospel of John. Warren Wiersbe wrote of this Gospel, “It is simple enough for a child to wade in, but deep enough for the scholar and most seasoned saint to swim in.” Whether you wade or swim, our hope is that you will behold all God reveals through Jesus, with one life changing purpose… that you may believe and have life in His name!

John’s Gospel is unique. The New Testament begins with four accounts of the life, teachings, miracles, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The first three (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) are called the Synoptic Gospels and cover many of the same events in much the same order. John, instead, looks into eternity to grasp the spiritual meaning of the events and words of Jesus in a way that the other three gospels do not.

John’s purpose is clear. He wrote, “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:30-31). Together we will peer into the Light of God’s glory and discover the vast truths of who Jesus is and what it means to believe and have life in His Name.

Whether this is your first time studying the Gospel of John or your fiftieth, we invite you to join us as we discover the depths of this amazing testimony of God’s faithfulness to the world!

TAKE NOTE Small groups of all ages have the opportunity to go through this Bible Study.

You can encourage your community group to go through this together or form a group of your own. Contact Jessica (jhenkaline@calvarygr.org) at ext.

5186 to let us know how many books you need.

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Deacon Update

A DULT B IBL E ST U DY

From Familiarity to Transformation I asked Jesus into my heart at an early age and was raised in a Christian home. I attended Christian schools and have been a part of Calvary for most of my life. To say I was immersed in the Bible is an understatement. But I have a confession: I never truly studied the Bible. Sure, I knew the stories and could recite verses from memory, but I didn’t grasp the full, cohesive story of Scripture.

In August of 2012, shortly after the birth of our second child, my husband and I decided that I would stay home full time with our boys. I wasn’t sure how I would fill my days, and someone suggested I try the women’s Bible study at church. Since childcare was provided, I figured I’d give it a try.

I still remember that first Tuesday morning—I was a bit apprehensive since I didn’t know many people. But from the moment the study began, I was hooked. That year we were studying Exodus, and it was incredible to watch the Lord at work in the lives of the Israelites.

I learned how deeply God desired to dwell with His people. For the first time, I began to see Scripture as one continuous story of God’s love and faithfulness.

Since then, my life has been transformed through the study of God’s Word. I can’t get enough of it! Every time I open the Bible, I discover something new.

My relationship with Jesus has grown deeper and more intimate, and I’ve also been blessed with an amazing community of women who have prayed for and supported me. It’s been both life-giving and life changing.

Fast forward to 2025… I’ve been serving as the Deacon of Adult Bible Study for several years and have loved every minute of it! I’m deeply passionate about this ministry and delighted by the many lives who have been impacted through a deeper understanding of God’s Word. As we begin a new adventure this fall in the Gospel of John, I want to encourage you to join us for our main Adult Bible Study. We have several options available for men and women (see page 16). I am blessed and honored to serve you and others here at Calvary!

- Katie Williams, Deacon of Adult Bible Study

At Calvary Church, the fall season is a special time of year because that is when our ministries launch and run at their fullest capacity. Our staff has been extremely busy over the last few months praying, planning and crafting an experience that we hope will Neil Kassuba guide you to encounter the Lord in a powerful Facilitator, way. The level of ministry that Calvary Church Serving Ministry is engaged in is a true blessing from the Lord, but we cannot function at this level without the dedication and assistance of our wonderful volunteers. Each of you who volunteer with us are such a blessing and we are extremely grateful that you answered “yes” to God’s call on your life.

If you have yet to find a volunteer role at Calvary, now is the time to jump in! Join us this ministry year in the eternal work of advancing God’s kingdom. We have many wonderful opportunities to serve where you’ll not only bless others with your gifts, but be blessed yourself!

Check out these highlighted roles or explore other areas of ministry involvement by contacting me, Neil Kassuba – Facilitator, Serving Ministry at 616-956-9377 or nkassuba@calvarygr.org.I would be blessed to help you navigate this process.

HIGHLIGHTED

Serving Opportunities CALVARY KIDS (Birth through 4th Grade): We have roles as room leaders, teachers, helpers and check-in with flexible schedules available. Training is provided.

HOSPITALITY: This ministry has positions as door holder, greeter, usher or on our parking lot team. Hospitality is vital in God’s church and these roles are crucial as we invite our guests into worship on Sunday mornings.

WORSHIP & PRODUCTION: This ministry is looking for people to join us in roles for our choir, praise band or worship team, orchestra and also behind the scene areas of technical support which helps our worship services run smoothly.

CULINARY: Our Culinary Ministry has roles helping serve the continental breakfast on Sunday mornings and welcoming our guests in between services, in the Gathering Place.

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elder

NOMINEES

Don has been married to his wife, Stacy, for 31 years and they have been blessed with five adult children and two granddaughters. Their family has attended Calvary for 23 years. Don has previously served in the roles of Deacon, Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee, Finance DON ARMBRESTER representative for the Jerusalem Project, Elder and Elder Chair.

Most recently, he chaired the committee that facilitated Calvary’s capital campaign - A Time to Renew. Don feels it would be an honor to serve again as an Elder if God calls him to that role.

Chuck and his wife, Brenda, have been married 42 years and have two children and seven grandchildren. They began attending Calvary in 1998. Chuck has served and participated in various ministries through the years.

Budget counseling, Men’s ministry, Go Getters, Missions – four trips to Mozambique and served CHUCK ELY on the MAT team. He is currently involved in Monday Night Bible Study and is a Sunday morning Greeter. He has also had the privilege of leading a Bible study at Hope Network for 19 years.

Todd and his wife Libby have been married for 33 years and are blessed with five children and one son-in-law. They came to Calvary in 2012 and have served on missions trips and in areas of the church such as refugee care, adult Sunday school, small group leaders and ushering.

Todd completed the LDF program, served on the Finance Committee and currently serves as the Deacon Chair.

Jim and Kristie have been married for 34 years and have attended Calvary Church for 30 years. They have three married children, Courtney(29), Tyler(28), and Jenna(26). Jim and Kristie are presently serving in Oasis at Home ministry. They have a passion for missions, and have enjoyed serving together on JIM HOEKWATER missions trips to Ukraine and Honduras. They have served as adult small group facilitators and middle school small group leaders.

TODD BOWMAN

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At Calvary Church, the elders give oversight and direction to the church. They meet monthly to prayerfully consider church direction, policy and discipline. The selection of elders will take place by casting of lots at the Annual Meeting on October 26.

Cy has been married to Michele since 1994. They have four children - Ashley, Amber, Lance, and Audrey as well as three grandchildren - Jace, Cal, and Dutton. Cy and Michele became members in 2000.They have enjoyed 20 years working with the Wednesday night programs, starting with Awana all the way CY JOURDAN through to Calvary Kids. Cy has been parking cars at Calvary since 1999. He started ushering in 2020, where he was told there would be ‘no math’ involved! He was asked to be a deacon from 2018-2024. Cy will never be able to give back to Calvary everything it has given him , but continues to try to be available when needed.

Annual Meeting

OCTOBER 26 6 : 0 0 P M S A NC T UA RY

In this year’s meeting we will: Aaron Lamport started attending Calvary Church in 2000, when he was a freshman at Cornerstone University. He is convinced that God sent him to Cornerstone to find Calvary. Over the years Aaron has spent time serving in the high school and Calvary Kids ministry, has had the honor of leading a short-term missions trip AARON LAMPORT to France, and currently serves the on Pastoral Resident Committee through the Jerusalem Project Institute. On a personal note, Aaron works in the financial services industry at a company in Ada. He has been married to Shelly for 20 years and has three teenage children who are the joy of his life.

Greg and his wife, Susan, have been attending Calvary Church for 21+ years. Presently Greg serves on the Calvary Care Advisory Team. They have hosted a Calvary small group for over 15 years. Greg has been involved in the Kent County Jail ministry for many years as well. He has GREG MANGIONE been retired for almost two years from a 43 year career in Beverage Manufacturing. Greg and Susan enjoy planning family reunions with their 11 children and 22 grandchildren and spending time vacationing in Naples, Florida with friends and family. He is honored and humbled for this opportunity to serve on the Calvary elder board.

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Thank God for the gift of His grace over the past year;

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Review a financial update from the deacons;

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Select new elders;

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Look forward to the year ahead;

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Have a time of Q&A.

All Calvary attendees are encouraged to attend, however only members may participate in the selection of elder candidates. Childcare will be provided (birth through age three). If you consider Calvary your home church, this meeting is for you!

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C A LL CA L L F O R EN TRI E S The benedictions for each sermon series serve as a type of “Standing Stone,” memorial, and reminder of the learning journey God has taken Calvary through.

The Calvary Art Committee would like to invite artists who call Calvary their church home to create a text based artwork from these Benedictions as visual reminders of this journey for the congregation and visitors. This collection of past and present benedictions will be on exhibit Spring 2026 and then purchased as part of our permanent church collection.

If you are interested in participating we would encourage you to find more information by visiting calvarygr.org/art or reaching out to info@calvarygr.org and putting “Art Committee - Benedictions” in the subject line. Please feel free to include which past benediction/passage you’re interested in if you have a specific one you’d like to depict.

calvarygr.org/art

Bereavement Care Supporting the Grieving Via the Mail

The Bereavement Ministry is 15 volunteers who use their pens to bless Calvary Church. The church had long wondered how to support those grieving the loss of a spouse, sibling, child or parent, when Brian Swanton began to send them scripture passages in beautiful greeting cards.

He had cared for and visited our hospice patients but now began to embark on a ministry to family left behind after a loved one's death. He searched for helpful scripture, thought through a biblical theology of suffering and sorrow, gleaned help from Griefshare, and placed what he learned into a well-organized binder. Notecards were printed from his own nature photographs.

Stamps were purchased. Binders were copied. He began to prayerfully assemble a team to send grieving Calvary folks cards with scripture each month for a year. Four times throughout the year, meaningful booklets on grief are enclosed. Ministering now for a year, some team members say that they have heard that their cards come "at just the right time," encouraging and comforting a grieving brother or sister on a hard day. The ministry has kept monthly mail coming to 115 individuals and families since its inception. That's a lot of mail! "I pray for each person as I write my card," one team member remarked. "It is a way to walk alongside those grieving to let them know they are not forgotten."

Interested in joining this team?

Contact Christie Thompson (cthompson@calvarygr.org) to get connected.

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Finding Cancer Courage

Our Journey of Hope - Calvary Cancer Ministry

In early 2024, Calvary Church launched the “Our Journey of Hope®” cancer ministry. Volunteers were trained and commissioned to walk alongside cancer patients and their caregivers.

This friendship-based ministry brings words and actions of encouragement and hope to those fighting a physical, emotional, and spiritual battle with cancer.

When the people of Israel faced their enemies in battle, Moses encouraged them with these words: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

The question is, “How exactly do you become strong and courageous when you are weak, sick, and fearful?” This is where the “Our Journey of Hope®” volunteers become the hands and feet of Jesus through in-person visitation, cards, emails, and text messages. They deliver God’s word and profound love during what is probably one of life’s most challenging times. They understand what you are going through and help you navigate through the “fog” of cancer diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and remission.

John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

This past year, Calvary’s volunteers have worked with over 40 cancer patients and caregivers. These are Calvary members, neighbors, friends, and co-workers. They would love to work with you, too.

We have seen some amazing things happen with patients and caregivers:

• • • •

Relationships were restored with family and friends.

• • •

A new and resolute trust in Jesus Christ was established.

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Fears were transformed into faith and peace.

Weaknesses grew into courage.

Confusion was replaced with a new vision of life and the afterlife.

Testimonies of praise emerged out of hopelessness.

A deeper understanding of Jesus Christ’s profound love as they drew closer to God. Fear of death was replaced with a new appreciation for each and every day of life.

Along the way, new friendships developed, patients learned how to navigate the medical system, resources emerged for transportation, meals, and complimentary hair salon visits. Even better, some patients and caregivers began encouraging others. Best of all, God was getting all the glory.

If you need more peace, faith, and courage in your cancer journey, contact us today. Contact Calvary Care at cthompson@ calvarygr.org. We are eagerly waiting to talk to you or someone you know. God bless.

BY ROD JONES

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Partner. Train. Plant.

Celebrating Milestones As part of its mission to help train men and women for ministry, the Jerusalem Project comes alongside individuals serving in pastoral roles to help guide them on the path toward ordination or commissioning.

Toran and Brenda Scott, The Local Church; Austin and Olivia Presnell, The Beloved Church; Jim and Lisa Samra, Calvary Church

Barbara and LeRoy Johnson

The Jerusalem Project invites men and women from local church staffs to participate in a study cohort as part of their preparation to be ordained or commissioned. The year-long class involves developing a personal doctrinal statement and philosophy of ministry, along with reading and discussing books on pastoral ministry. Following approval by the elders, each participant coordinates a service to mark this significant milestone on their ministry journey.

In 2025, the Jerusalem Project celebrated four individuals who completed the ordination or commissioning process (Pictured on the left from top to bottom.)

• • • • Commissioning Prayer

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Ordination Prayer

Austin Presnell, The Beloved Church, March 2025 Kaylynn Woznick, Calvary Church, January 2025 LeRoy Johnson, Thank God First Church, March 2025 Andy Crowder, Wellspring Church, June 2025