Grace Alive - December 2020

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church Iglesia Presbiteriana Gracia de Cristo

“Love Well Through Drops of Grace”

FEBRUARY DECEMBER 2020 2020 121 VOL 124

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Head Pastor — Bill Williamson, Pastor

My Heart, Christ’s Home “If a man loves Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” – John 14:23 The Season of Advent, the time in which we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, begins November 29th.

Throughout the Season we, at Grace of Christ, are wanting to help each of us discover Christ in our Home for the Holidays. In a year that has been anything but “normal,” we hope that the holidays give you a sense of normalcy.

May traditions give you a peace, whether it’s playing your favorite Christmas songs or baking fudge, may your heart be filled with the presence of Christ. That’s what we want to provide at Grace of Christ during Advent. We want you to feel at “home” on Sunday mornings, and as we gather on Christmas Eve.

Whether it’s joining us for worship on Sunday mornings in the Sanctuary or in the comfort of your home, we want God to be found at home in your heart, in your life, and in your family. There’s a famous book from years ago called “My Heart, Christ’s Home,” written by a Presbyterian Pastor, Robert Munger (1911-2001). The premise is about how every area of our home should be filled with the presence of Christ. Each room represents a different area of our lives, and we can allow access into each place.

As we prepare for Advent and Christmas, may Christ be found at home within us, wherever we are, whoever we are with, and whatever we do.

Home may not always seem like “home” during the holidays. Your home may be filled with anxiety and stress.

Your home may be empty. Your home may be filled with laughter and joy. Your home may be filled with tears of sorrow. Without a doubt, your “home” will be different this year.

“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in Heaven and on Earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith – that you, being rooted and grounded in love.” – Ephesians 3.14-16

During Advent, we want you to experience the presence of our Lord during the holidays. We pray that you will find HOPE for the Holidays, JOY for the Holidays, PEACE for the Holidays, and LOVE for the Holidays. Our prayer is that during these very uncertain times that the presence of God would turn your “holidays” into HOLY DAYS.

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Or, as another has translated, “That Christ may settle down and be at home in your hearts by faith.”

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Because of Christ, and by His Grace, – Pastor Bill

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Life Groups — Curt McFarland, Pastor

The Value of Community Groups It was the summer of 1983. I had been hiking for three months. Mostly alone, often cold, subsisting on meager rations, either trudging through snow or pursued by swarms of hungry mosquitos. The mountains of Washington, Oregon and Northern California had been particularly hard hit the previous winter. Even in July and August of that year, long sections of the Pacific Crest Trail disappeared under a blanket of white. I followed my compass South. As I rounded another bend in the trail, crested another summit, crossed another glacial field, there were times I longed for a friendly face, a home-cooked meal, a generous conversation, someone who knew me and cared about me.

Homecoming has been the theme here at Grace this Fall and Winter. Months of separation, not due to a long hike, a broken relationship, demands of work, travel to a far country, forced imprisonment, but due to an invisible foe, a virus, a pandemic. The uncertainty of COVID, when or where or who it would strike. The unknown of COVID, how exactly is it transmitted, what are the best forms of protection, why is this person, this country spared the worst of its ravages and not that one.

effects. The inability to see faces, smiles, to convey affection and appreciation with a simple touch or quick embrace.

Grieving losses without the support and company of the larger community. Loneliness and sorrow cannot be remedied at a distance. Added into this equation is the increased division, acrimony, and polarization evident all across this great country of ours.The idyllic presentation of life and friendships conveyed through advertising and social media betray the inertia that is spinning us farther apart rather than closer together.

There was one particular experience I had while hiking that helped re-center my thoughts, re-connect me with others, and re-energize my resolve for the miles ahead. My companion, as I stepped across the Canadian border and headed south, a Malamute named Charis (Greek for “gift” or “grace”), got hurt near Snoqualmie pass.

Beyond the physical dangers there are wounds that cut much deeper. The loss of a job and with it the fragile security it provided now gone. Restrictions on travel, kids cut off from teachers and from each other, the heartache of Sundays without the familiar sights and sounds associated with worshiping God, disruptions of the simple pleasures we all took for granted: a meal out, playing in the park, a casual conversation with someone passing by. The relational toll of this crisis is as devastating as the medical

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Family Ministry — Melissa Gray

Family at Grace is here to support your family.

During the Week

Family at Grace provides daily content on Facebook and Instagram that provides faith-based ideas, devotions and fun family friendly ideas. From cooking and recipe ideas, to parenting and childhood information, there is a little something for every family. Follow us on Facebook Family at Grace or on Instagram @familyatgrace

On Sunday Morning

Whether you worship from home, in the Sanctuary, or in our Family Lounge on Sunday morning, we want to support your family with family worship, devotions and activities.

Worshipping together as a family teaches our children many valuable lessons that they will carry with them into adulthood.

Their value as part of the church body, feeling connected as part of the church community, prayer and what worship looks like with other adults are just a few of those.

Worshiping in the Building – Join us to worship inside

the building as a family. Activity bags and kid friendly sermon outlines are provided every Sunday. If you have children ages five and under, you can reserve a table for your family in the Family Lounge. To reserve your spot, just request the family lounge while filling out your church reservation online.

Worshiping at Home – During this time, we want to give

families an opportunity to grow in the Lord together through online worship and family devotions at home. We’re so glad you are joining us for Family at Grace online! Even though we can’t all meet together at church, we encourage you to keep our connection strong by coming to church online each week. Monthly family devotions are available on our website each month, through our Social Media Pages (Facebook: Family at Grace, Instagram: @familyatgrace), or request a paper copy by emailing Melissa.gray@yakimagrace.com.

Homebound Blessings

Is your family looking for a way to help spread JOY this Christmas Season? Family at Grace is partnering with Creative Yakima to help bring some Christmas Cheer to those in our congregation who are homebound. Your family will be connected with a homebound member of our congregation for you to bless with a beautiful hand painted ornament.

Your family will have the opportunity to paint an ornament for a friend at Grace as well as a special ornament for your own family. Ornaments will be available by December 13 in time for your family to deliver before Christmas Day!

THE TIMELINE

DEC 5 - Deadline to order your to-go kits for Dec 6 pickup DEC 6 - Pickup your to-go kits at church Sunday morning

or arrange with Creative Yakima DEC 11 - Drop-off your ornaments at Creative Yakima for

firing (2115A West Lincoln Ave ) DEC 13 - Pickup your fired ornaments at church DEC 13-19 - Homebound blessing delivery week and/or

decorate your tree!

TO ORDER YOUR ORNAMENTS

Register online with Creative Yakima to reserve an ornament for $10. Creative Yakima offers a 10% discount on all purchases for Grace of Christ Families who are interested in painting additional ornaments. https://www.creativeyakima.com

Meet the Rivera Family!

December Family Faith Kit

Our December Family Faith Kit is designed for families to incorporate faith into their Advent and Christmas celebrations. This month we are focusing on four Christmas songs and paying attention to the lyrics in each. This fun family kit includes a weekly devotion, game, craft, and a Christmas recipe! Access a copy for your family on our website, or email Melissa to request a digital or paper copy.

Melissa.gray@yakimagrace.com. Watch for our January Faith Kit coming soon as well as other fun family events!

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Family Ministry Who is in your family and where were you born? Bladimir, Trinidad, Keila, Julian, Amy and

Sofia. Bladimir and I were born in Mexico. I came to the USA at six years old. Bladimir at 18 years. We have lived in Yakima since our arrival.

What is your family’s favorite way to spend a Friday night together?

Friday nights we eat pizza and watch a movie with popcorn.

“Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.” – Proverbs 4.23

What is your favorite family tradition?

We ask each other to share their best part of the day at dinner time.

What is your favorite family meal?

What is your favorite family TV show and Movie? We like to watch Buddy the

Elf at Christmas. We like Disney and Pixar movies.

Does your family have a favorite band or artist? We love Lauren Diagel

and listening to K-LOVE.

What was your favorite family vacation? The best

family vacations are at the beach in Mexico. We just cancelled this year’s Mexico vacation with a heavy heart.

If your family could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would take my entire family to Spain because we have Spanish blood in us.

Who is the funniest person in your family?

Probably Sofia - she is six and full of stories real and make believe. Sofia is most likely to become famous for her tenacious spirit. She can find ways to get what she wants and make us all laugh in the process.

If your family was an animal what would it be and why? We would all be cats

because no two cats are alike. Some crazy, some like cuddles, and some have an attitude. At some point in time we all have these cat tendencies. lol!

are

Does your family have nicknames for each other? Nickname for

Blady is PAPI CHULO! Translation handsome daddy.

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Do you have a family Bible verse? What is it?

ENCHILADAS - grandma’s original recipe from Mexico.

What is your favorite family Holiday?

Why? CHRISTMAS! Jesus, family, food, and presents.

If your family became famous, what would you be famous for? We

would become famous for our baking and cooking.

Who is the best cook in your family? I (Trinidad)

am the best cook in the family.

I am always trying new recipes. I show my family I love them by cooking for them. However, right behind me is Keila - she is an amazing cook and baker.

If your family could have dinner with any person in the word, who would it be and why? We would have dinner with Dave Ramsey

because he has taught us to live within our means and be happy with less.

If your family members each had a superpower, what would they be?

Blady’s superpower is BIBLE MAN, Keila’s power would be BOOKS FOR ALL she loves reading, Amy’s is SWEETNESS OVERLOAD because she loves and loves unconditionally, Julian’s is KINDNESS & HAPPINESS. Sofia is the QUEEN OF LAUGHTER she always makes us laugh. And Trinidad’s superpower is STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE in all you do in JESUS NAME!

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Prayer Ministry

to be productive loosened its grip as “Be still and know that I am God” became more attractive.

Prayer became an essential, a lifeline as there were fewer places of escape. The Lord’s prayer became more dear.

Praying fervently for His Kingdom to come, to change the atmosphere. Asking Him to bring His blueprints from the eternal realm into this natural realm; those things that He formed in eternity, bring them forth into the earth realm for such a time as this. Then hearing the Lord say, “Position yourself in faith. Hold on tight to the truth of His goodness and faithfulness. Keep Your Eyes on Jesus!

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– Jake and Carla Kupp

He is a Good Father!

We’d like to share how we’ve seen God at work this year. Here are a few testimonies from our church family.

Do Not Be Afraid

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“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare of the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I am trusting Him.” – Psalm 91

During this “sheltering” time of COVID-19, Jake and I have prayed through Psalm 91 before going to bed at night. We have come to know more fully the truth of the promises expressed in this much-loved Psalm. “He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from the fatal plaque.”

We have felt His protection as we have sought Him in prayer repeatedly taking in His words. “Do not be afraid nor dread the plague that stalks in darkness.” Gradually we began to live in peace, free from anxiety, sensing His protection and Presence.

This sheltering time has given us time. There was no use for a calendar for several months because we had no schedule!

Our devotional times together in the morning were often several hours as we read Oswald Chambers and talked and prayed. Freedom to “be” became more important than “doing,” because there wasn’t much to do! The pressure 6

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The past eight months has been an opportunity for me personally to slow down. Since our lives have drastically changed with this pandemic, I’ve been able to take a good look at my life, my obligations, and in the areas in which I serve. Where am I spending my time? The first seven months of the quarantine I was able to join my mom in caring for my dad in the final months of his life. God provided in such great ways! I spent more time with my husband, who was also working from home. God blessed our marriage in great ways! I was able to spend more time making phone calls, reaching out to church family. Because of a slower schedule, I had more energy to help with Adams book collection and delivery to students. God showed me how to rest! I continue seeking the Lord in this season. I look forward to seeing Him at work in my life, my marriage, and in my church. He is a good Father!

– Ericka Clark

The Joy of the Lord

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“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

(Nehemiah 8.10) “The joy of the Lord is my strength” is the thought that helps me rely on God’s daily provision in whatever is happening in the world.

– Anonymous

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Be Still and Know that I am God

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Recently I was drawn to the very familiar story of Jesus’ visit to Mary and Martha’s home (Luke 10:38-42). It really convicted me of how much I’d been like Martha most of my life in ministry, including retirement. It wasn’t until the

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Prayer Ministry Lord called me to withdraw from all public ministry and leadership (starting January 1, 2020) did I understand the importance of being still and sitting with the Lord as Mary did. It’s been eleven months and I have learned so much about myself and more importantly about my relationship with God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit).

It started with the charge from Psalm 46.10, “Be still and know that I am God.” During this time, I have spent more time alone with the Lord (in prayer) than I have in my 45year relationship with Him. I’ve received some overdue inner healing and gained some valuable insights I never

would have otherwise about my relationship with Him and others. He’s also opened my eyes to needs around me and led me to reach out to individuals where I’ve been able to live out the words from Galatians 6.2, “Carry one another’s burdens.”

“For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) I thank God for this season I’m spending with Him.

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– Together in prayer John Stolzenbach

Community Groups Continued...

I hitchhiked into Wapato and left her with some dear friends, Cragg and Barb at the Campbell Farm. She would stay there until I completed my hike and return to collect her. During those few days off trail other dear friends, Fred and Pat and their daughter Anna, invited me to their home. They knew me, welcomed me, fed me (BBQ burgers after a month of freeze-dried food), encouraged me. Then it was time to hike south again. Anna dropped me off at White Pass and I headed into the Goat Rocks. I have never forgotten that time with the Gilberts and Ericksons, their generosity and open door. Knowing I had a home gave me strength for the hundreds of miles I then faced, alone, on the trail.

For each of us, knowing we have a home, when home is a healthy place, gives us strength for the journey.

Conversations, shared meals, a safe place to work out questions about life and faith, reconnecting with those we have been separated from, all encourage us as we walk the path ahead of us. Home is meant to be a safe place, not always comfortable, but safe. The door opens, the first song of the band or choir begins, and relationships pick up where they left off last holiday, last Sunday.It’s harder to hide,

posture, and pretend when we are among those who know us. But it’s not always comfortable. Those gathered around us in the living room, or scattered among the pews, know some of the details of our lives. They know promises we’ve made but haven’t kept, temptations we’ve given in to, tears and laughter we’ve experienced. That’s what God intends for us: real community, real relationships, a real home.

– Pastor Curt McFarland

AHA Community Life

Our Fall AHA Community Life series has been another invitation to venture off trail, to reject isolation, to meet with, and get to know, a few others. Each time a community group meets the door opens and relationships pick up where we left them the week before. Pretenses and posturing fade, truth and compassion rise. Community Groups at Grace begin with the understanding that we are all imperfect, and, as such, we are all welcome and accepted.

At our most recent“AHA! moments,” Bill Dolsen brought AHA drinks to share, and we had a good discussion – led by our fearless leader, Janine Connell. We’re enjoying being together again and are taking the opportunity to pray for our country, families, and church. We’ll be making sandwiches for Sunrise Outreach the next four weeks for our community outreach service project. We are grateful for this opportunity to meet as small groups in our church!

We will celebrate the end of our AHA community life series on Sunday December 6 from 4-5pm at the church. We will celebrate, sing, pray, and share how God has been showing up in our lives and community groups, these past months. Everyone is welcome to join this celebration, even if you haven’t been a part of one of Grace’s AHA groups. Life together… as it should be!

– Blessings, Kathy

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Adams Giving Tree

We Need Candy Canes!

Please Bring Your Candy Cane Donations to the Church Office.

Thank You!

Adams Giving Tree

Our church has the honor to give 250 students at Adams Elementary School Christmas gifts this season. We are known to Love Well, here at Grace, and there is no doubt our church will share the love of Jesus with these students and their families.

We are working with the staff at Adams – they gave us a well thought out list of 250 students who could use some extra kindness this Christmas season. Our planning team prayerfully considered how to bless these families and what we heard from the Lord was to be abundant in our giving – we asked God what that meant – He showed us ways to be kind, to honor families during this pandemic, to pray for families, and ways to give the kids a special Christmas. God has given us ideas on how to make the evening we pass out gifts fun, even though we will be doing it as a drive through in the Adams school parking lot. God is creative and we can’t wait to share with you how we are going to pull off an epic Giving Tree event!

DECEMBER 6: RETURN GIFTS (UNWRAPPED)

Please return gifts to the church, unwrapped OR in a gift bag. Please do not wrap with paper.

DECEMBER 13 (SUNDAY) 11:30am

Join us in the gym for social distancing gift assembly!

We are using gift bags this year and would love your help organizing gifts by grade.

NOVEMBER 15: Kick Off!

Check out the shopping list online YakimaGrace.com We’ve set it up so you can shop by gift (as many as you want!) and ways to donate to the overall cost of the event. Our hope is to bless each of the 250 students with a Christmas gift, a gift for their family and small gift bags for their siblings. We want to love well and abundantly!

SHOP! SHOP! SHOP!

Have fun shopping (or) let us shop for you! Donate online or send checks to the church. See website for donation suggestions and how your gift will be used.

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DECEMBER 17 (THURSDAY) 4:00pm-7:00pm

GIVING TREE GIFT GIVE-A-WAY DRIVE THROUGH EVENT! We will meet at Adams Elementary to sing Christmas carols, give gifts to students, families & siblings, hand out candy canes and show some fun Grace Christmas spirit to 250 students and their families.

You’ll want to be a part of this! Contact Alex Rule with your questions or email Ericka@yakimagrace.com if you want to help us!

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Christmas at Grace

A HOMESTYLE CHRISTMAS - 4:30

CAROLS & CANDLES - 7:30

MERRY CHRISTMAS! The last nine months have been a season of many emotions, ups and downs. Yakima Grace wants to provide a “home for the holidays” throughout the Advent Season. We love being together on Sunday mornings – in person or online – worshipping Christ Jesus. We pray your times with your Life Groups have brought you closer to God as you study His Word in community with other believers. And as we prepare our hearts for Christmas, we pray together asking Jesus to heal our city, country and world.

We look forward to our Christmas Eve services, a time to honor our Savior, a time to be with one another in person or virtually. Perhaps you will feel nudged to invite a friend, neighbor or family to join you for worship on Christmas Eve. Someone who is in need of a sense of home and family, a sense of normalcy during these confusing and challenging times. Join us at Grace.

SAT DEC 5th!

See Family Ministry on page 4, for dates & details!

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CHRISTMAS EVE FAMILY SERVICE December 24 | 4:30pm | Sanctuary By Reservation December 24 | 4:30pm | ONLINE | Website/ YouTube/Facebook Live A Homestyle Christmas with classic Christmas songs led by our Worship Band, candle lighting and the Christmas story shared with family and friends. Register online if you would like to attend in person, as per state guidelines, or follow along online from the comfort of your home.

77th ANNUAL CAROLS & CANDLES December 24 | 7:30pm | Sanctuary By Reservation December 24 | 7:30pm | ONLINE | Website/ YouTube/Facebook Live A modified Carols and Candles with traditional Christmas hymns and carols, readings from Scripture and the lighting of candles.

OPEN FOR WORSHIP: The Church will be open for worship on Thursday, December 24th and Sunday, December 27th.

CHURCH CLOSED: Grace of Christ Church will be closed December 24th - January 1st. The building will be closed and phone calls will be directed to voicemail.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Business Ministry Team Stewardship Campaign

As we prepare to conclude our annual stewardship campaign, we want to say thank you to a faithful congregation and to celebrate the generosity you have shown throughout this year which has been like no other. Your faithful giving, combined with the careful attention to our budget that your Elders and staff made a priority, have allowed Grace of Christ to continue in ministry and mission to our church family, community, and world.

You may think the primary reason an offering is taken during worship is to pay the bills of the church and to provide missionally with the money collected. Yes, we do have bills to pay and certainly we do good things with the offering that is taken, but ultimately those are not the reasons we pledge to give to Grace of Christ. Our pledge, the offering we give, is a visible demonstration of worshipping our King. When we pledge to give, we are offering something of value, our money, in sacrifice to God. Ultimately, we are not giving to the church but, rather to our Lord. The church collects our offering and then uses our gift for the glory of God, to further His Kingdom here and now.

The faithfulness of Grace, in this time of being unable to worship together within the walls of our church, has demonstrated that we know we are so much more than a building. We are the church, with no physical boundaries to how we live the life of love to which Jesus has called us. When the Body of Christ joins together in a corporate time of giving, whether seated in a pew

Youth Group is Cancelled

This year we are completely breaking down youth ministry and starting from scratch. Students are facing a whole new set of challenges and our world seems far from “normal,” so let’s just start over. Our plan is to pair students with a small group, meeting weekly, to act as their support and part of their Christian community for the year. Our approach is to meet each student as if it’s the first time and learn what they need and want from this year because it will be different than any other. We want to focus on the student part of the ministry and find ways to bring Christ into everyday life in a fun way. We see this working through activity-based ministry.

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or from the living room of our homes, it is our God Most High who is exalted and we are joined in a sacred and holy act of worship.

“Though they have been going through much trouble and hard times, their wonderful joy and deep poverty have overflowed in rich generosity. For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford but far more. And they did it of their own free will. They begged us again and again for the gracious privilege of sharing in the gift for the Christians in Jerusalem. Best of all, they went beyond our highest hopes, for their first action was to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to us for whatever directions God might give them.” – 2 Corinthians 8.2-5 Our giving is an act of worship and service to God. Our giving brings glory to His Name. When we hold nothing back from God we see and experience His transforming power to change hearts, grow the church and transform our world. Consider the pledge you make and honor as faithful worship of your King.

– Janet Krieger and Doug Bernd Business Ministry Elders

If interested in getting yourself or your student involved, reserve a spot in a small group with either Robin Stuber at robinstuber@msn.com or Ali Hildebrand at (509) 834-0405.

HOW CAN I HELP? • WE NEED LEADERS: We need leaders to help carry out our vision of small activity-based ministry this year. If interested get in touch with Robin Stuber at Robinstuber@msn.com • WE NEED GIFT CARDS: We also need food and activity gift cards. The easiest way to connect and build a relationship with a student is over food or an activity but it can add up!

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

Adams Elementary Book Drive

Repartiendo Libros a Adams

It is a blessing for our church to be able to serve Adams Elementary in our community by visiting students K-5 grades and give them gifts of books that our church and others lovingly give away. Our teams include members of our church and My Pueblito community. Together, we deliver book packages to an average of 30 – 40 homes every week and are sharing the love of our Lord Jesus Christ to all families. Some families shared with us that they are doing well, many are working parents, others are not working and are going through difficult times and have a need for food.

Many students have already learned to connect and surf the internet to take their virtual classes, but there are some parents who do not know how to use the computer and cannot help their children with online classes and homework. That is why My Pueblito will be offering basic computer classes, English as a Second Language classes, and Financial classes at Madison House. We thank Adams Elementary School for the opportunity to serve their students and their families. We also thank our God and our church for loving our community well with drops of grace.

Es una bendición para nuestra iglesia poder servir a la Primaria Adams en nuestra comunidad visitando a los estudiantes de Kínder y hasta Quinto Grado para obsequiarles libros que nuestra iglesia y otros regalan con amor. Nuestros equipos de miembros de nuestra iglesia y la comunidad de My Pueblito entregan paquetes de libros de 30 a 40 hogares cada semana, además estamos compartiendo el amor de nuestro Señor Jesucristo a todas las familias. Algunas familias compartieron con nosotros que les está yendo muy bien, muchos son padres de familia están trabajando, pero algunos no están trabajando y están pasando por momentos difíciles y necesitan comida.

Muchos estudiantes ya han aprendido a conectarse y a navegar por Internet para tomar sus clases virtuales, pero hay algunos padres que no saben cómo usar la computadora y no pueden ayudar a sus hijos con las clases en línea y las tareas escolares. Es por eso que My Pueblito ofrecerá clases de computación básica junto con clases de inglés como segundo idioma y clases financieras en Madison House. Agradecemos a la Escuela Primaria Adams por la oportunidad de permitirnos servir a sus estudiantes y sus familias; también agradecemos a nuestro Dios Todopoderoso, y a nuestra iglesia por Amar Bien a nuestra comunidad con Gotas de Gracia.

My Pueblito

Grace of Christ Supporting Madison House 11

Nos reunimos cada semana en Madison House para trabajar en la visión de la Comunidad de Adams y el Sureste de Yakima. Queremos brindar los recursos y el apoyo necesario para ayudar a nuestras familias a ser transformadas “Una Familia a la Vez.” My Pueblito entiende que nuestras familias necesitan “El Amor de Dios.” Necesitan a alguien que se preocupe y cuide de ellos. Nuestra Iglesia y My Pueblito quieren hacer todo lo posible para ayudar a las familias necesitadas, no solo con cosas materiales sino, lo que es más importante, con la necesidad que tienen de Jesús, Nuestro Señor y Salvador.

Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

My Pueblito

My Pueblito meets each week with Madison House to work on the vision for the Adams Community and the southeast of Yakima. We want to provide resources and the support necessary to help our families to be transformed “One Family at a Time.” My Pueblito understands that our families need “God’s Love.” They need someone who cares. Grace of Christ Church and My Pueblito want to do everything possible to help families in need, not only with material things, but more importantly with the need for Jesus our Lord and Savior. These families need spiritual help and we will be meeting each week at Madison House to provide Bible studies, training workshops, parenting classes, and other activities. Our volunteers and mentors will be helping to share their gifts and talents with parents and their children. We need your prayers and support to continue doing God’s work in our church and community.

The Great Commission

“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28.16-20 If you want to be a part of My Pueblito project or if you need more information, please contact our church at 509248-7940 or you can call me.

God bless you always, – Pastor Alex Rule 509-731-2557

Las familias necesitan mucha ayuda espiritual. Nos estaremos reuniendo cada semana para Estudios Bíblicos, Talleres de Capacitación, Clased para ser Mejores Padres y Mejores Familias, y otras actividades.

Nuestros voluntarios y mentores ayudarán y compartirán sus dones y talentos con los padres y sus hijos. Por favor, necesitamos sus oraciones y apoyo para seguir haciendo la obra de Dios en nuestra iglesia y comunidad.

La Gran Comisión

“Entonces los once discípulos salieron hacia Galilea y se dirigieron al monte que Jesús les había indicado. Cuando vieron a Jesús, lo adoraron, ¡pero algunos de ellos dudaban!

Jesús se acercó y dijo a sus discípulos: «Se me ha dado toda autoridad en el cielo y en la tierra. Por lo tanto, vayan y hagan discípulos de todas las naciones, bautizándolos en el nombre del Padre y del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo. Enseñen a los nuevos discípulos a obedecer todos los mandatos que les he dado. Y tengan por seguro esto: que estoy con ustedes siempre, hasta el fin de los tiempos.” – Mateo 28.16-20 Si usted desea ser parte del proyecto My Pueblito o si necesita más información, por favor comuníquese con nuestra iglesia al 509-248-7940 o puede llamarme.

Dios los bendiga siempre, – Pastor Alex Rule 509-731-2557

My Pueblito Helping with Trunk or Treat at Madison House 12

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace Church Foundation and Missions “Equipping disciples to love and serve our neighbors”

Grace of Christ is a mission focused church, sharing DROPS OF GRACE locally, nationally and internationally having a global reach. Loving in the name and power of Christ, Grace of Christ truly has a world-wide impact, changing lives for His Kingdom. The Mission Ministry Team (MMT) maintains interaction with and oversees distribution of funds to more than twenty mission partners and organizations.

Go Into the World “..So go and make followers of all people in the world.

Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28.19 Indeed, 2020 has been a year like none other – one that won’t be forgotten! Much has been lost from the pandemic. Hugs from friends, meals with loved ones, the luxury to travel, attending in-person church or school, concerts, movies and typical daily routines all have been altered. The fear of contracting a deadly disease is on the forefront of our minds.

Despite these deep losses and possible fears, there are our brothers and sisters who have lost even more. There are those without HOPE. Their everyday reality includes struggling with addiction, homelessness, extreme poverty, food insecurity, and despair. Grace’s Mission Ministry Team believes that by giving to Missions, fruits of your giving begin to address these issues and change lives. Lives that can in turn come to know Jesus.

The following are a few examples:

The Great Commission Fund

A New Addition to the Grace of Christ Foundation

GO, MAKE, DISCIPLES! – Matthew 28.19-20 The Great Commission Fund is based on Matthew 28:19-20.

“All authority in Heaven and Earth has been given to Me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son, and of the

Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

An arm of Grace of Christ’s Foundation, this newly established fund is a permanent endowment that has been named the Great Commission Fund (GCF). The GCF will grow in perpetuity and augment the long and rich Missions Legacy that Grace of Christ proudly holds.

Joe Park, Chairman of the Board of the Grace of Christ Foundation, notes that the funding of the Great Commission Fund will cultivate this legacy in the following ways:

• Add financial support to global missions.

Blessings of Hope The Great Commission

• Produce more young missionaries from Yakima to be

sent into the fields. In addition to serving young adults from Grace, this fund will also be available to young adults from Yakima area churches for those who are called by God as missionaries.

• Partially fund Grace of Christ members and youth group participants to go on mission trip(s). This will provide opportunities to get their feet wet with missionary experiences and undertakings.

“

The Great Commission Fund will be used to help people experience missionary work, fund existing missionaries and to offer partial financial support to Grace of Christ members and youth participants to experience mission trips, explains Don Stuber a Mission Ministry Team (MMT) member and spear-header of this endeavor.

”

Aaron Barker, The Great Commission 13

After extensive in-depth research and policy development – along with guidance from the Foundation Board – Don Stuber’s effort to craft the Great Commission Fund has become a reality. “Our heritage is reaching out beyond Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry the church walls to help those in need. The majority of the funding will come from church members who will make the Great Commission Fund one of their beneficiaries on their insurance policy, IRA, or pension plan. Young adults from across the Valley (not just church members) are invited to apply to receive more help funding their missionary journey, whether it is used for attending YWAM’s DTS or Young Life summer staff,” states Stuber.

According to Tammy Nunley, Grace of Christ Business Manager, the four arms that make up the Foundation are: Mission Projects, Capital Improvements, Scholarships, and now, The Great Commission Fund. The Great Commission Fund will exponentially expand mission work and prepare our next generation(s) to further the Great Commission Consequentially, untold numbers will potentially become disciples and in turn, serve the Lord and His Kingdom.

The Gustafson Family The Great Commission

Please consider giving to the Great Commission Fund in your year-end giving.

GO, MAKE, DISCIPLES!

“

I can speak from personal experience having had the opportunity to participate in several mission trips Marta and Deme to Asia and Africa. These The Great Commission experiences have been an important factor in my Christian walk. This fund will open the doors for many who would not otherwise have this opportunity.

”

– Betty Rosenkranz Mission Ministry Team Member and Missionary to Asia and Africa

Sacred Road Ministries

Serving the Yakama Nation in the White Swan/Harrah Area This vital ministry was introduced to Grace during our Mission Sunday on October 18th. Guest Pastor Joshua Tsavatewa shared the message “Getting Un-Stuck” where we learned that through an encounter with Jesus, our lives are forever changed. Pastor Joshua told how Jesus looks at us sinners as His children and with love in His eyes. He explained how Jesus loves even “the worst of the worst.”

Sacred Road reaches out to its community – one of the poorest in our nation – in a multitude of ways to provide hope to a “forgotten” population affected by poverty, desperation, substance abuse and unemployment.

Trey Belisario, Children’s Director for Sacred Road, shares some dismal facts regarding life on the Reservation. “I don’t tell you this to cruelly upset you. I simply wish to communicate the dire need that this community has for Christ.”

According to Belisario, some 75% of children in White Swan live with disabilities; 70% of teens in White Swan are homeless. The overall life expectancy on the Reservation is a mere 39 years. By age 14, over 80% of the children are subject to physical and/or sexual abuse. And, this Native American community suffers from extremely high levels of drug abuse, alcoholism, unemployment and homelessness.

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Pastor Joshua Tsavatewa and Pastor Joshua Tsavatewa Pastor Bill Williamson of Sacred Road Ministry Please consider coming along side and loving your Native American brothers and sisters.

Trey Belisario can be reached at 509-985-2644 (or) tbelisario3@gmail.com.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry Grace + Goodness

Camp Ghormley and Grace of Christ Coming together to love our neighbors well The residents of Mabel Swan Manor, our neighbors living in the 144 apartments across the street from our church, did not have to go “cold turkey” this year - meaning without the traditional Thanksgiving meal that Grace of Christ has prepared and served to them the previous ten years. Instead a special “Thanksgiving Meal in a Bag” was shared with them. The bags were lovingly made by our Trailseeker kids (see the picture!). Grace of Christ and Ghormley Goodness worked together to creatively provide a meal that would satisfy COVID-19 restrictions. The Mission Ministry Team brainstormed options. Camp Ghormley Director Joel and Chef Tom were contacted to determine how they could help with the meal and Mabel Swan manager, Connie, was consulted

for feasibility and guidelines. November 19th the meal of a turkey hand-pie, applesauce, and chocolate chip cookies as well as a Thanksgiving message from our church was assembled by volunteers and then delivered to each apartment by Mabel Swan staff. Thank you, church family for your support of this mission outreach to our neighbors. We are hoping to do more Grace + Goodness meals (Grace of Christ plus Camp Ghormley) in the future.

Trailseeker Kids Decorated Thanksgiving Bags for Mabel Swan Manor

Yakima Union Gospel Mission (YUGM) The Mission Ministry Team Partners with the Foundation of Grace of Christ

Experiencing and responding to the impact of COVID-19, the Yakima Union Gospel Mission put forth a call to action. Over 160 individuals needed a warm, dry place to find shelter.

Compounded by the Yakima Health District’s requirement to maintain proper social distancing, the Yakima Union Gospel Mission was unable to house this community inside the structures of the old motel buildings. To make the matter even more critical, cold weather would soon be approaching.

Realizing that these guests could not be housed in the traditional manner, former Army Ranger and current CEO of YUGM, Mike Johnson began a plan of response. Tapping into his Army expertise and training, Johnson arranged for six very large, retired Army tents to be staked and set-up behind the Mission’s primary grounds. While what the Mission deems as family units (mothers with children or moms and dads) would continue to be housed in the physical buildings, the 160-plus individuals (mostly men) would have access to tent shelter.

But now, these make-shift tents needed to be properly prepared for impending winter. With the YUGM board’s guidance, along with pure sweat equity, floor structures were constructed on the tent grounds. According to YUGM board member Keith Mathews, “It became clear that housing for these men must be within the tents.” The solution was to place purchased pallets onto the ground within the tent.

Then, a one-inch layer of insulation foam was applied on to 15

the top of the pallets, followed by an additional plywood layer on to the top layer and secured by nailing all three layers together. The tents would then be augmented with supplemental heat.

Now, the tent structures are prepared but, there is an additional need: BUNKS! This is where the Mission Ministry Team partner with Grace’s Foundation to complete the call to action. Combining matching funds, collaboratively MMT and Foundation were able to meet this need. Thank you to Grace of Christ for your support and provision of hope.

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This morning I wish to express my gratitude for your gift to those who woke up this morning in a tent in the back of the Union Gospel Mission at 29 degrees. Your $6,000 gift will provide a measure of comfort and of warmth over this long and COVID winter so they might have some comfort in sleep. Blessings!

”

– Keith Mathews YUGM Board Member

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I wish to add my deep appreciation, on behalf of our clients and those engaged in caring for them! Hooray!

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- Mike Johnson CEO/Executive Director Yakima Union Gospel Mission

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry Camp Hope Meals

Church Family Kiki, Lloyd, & Cathy meet at U-Haul outside of Camp Hope to combine their contributions to the Camp Hope dinner prior to it’s delivery.

Camp Hope Meal Deliveries

The heart of compassion for others is evident in places throughout our community. For our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness, the Yakima Union Gospel Mission (YUGM) and Camp Hope (CH) extend a place of shelter, fellowship, and HOPE in the name of Jesus. What a privilege for Grace of Christ Church to partner with these two outstanding organizations!

Grace of Christ Church has a long history of support for the YUGM through the decades since its inception in Yakima.

Our partnership with YUGM is well established within our church family in many different ways. Even so, out of the increased need to address those who experiencing homelessness in our community, Camp Hope came into existence in 2017. But prior to Camp Hope, Grace of Christ Church was aiding in the feeding and sheltering of homeless men during extreme weather conditions at least as far back as 2015 (perhaps 2014) where we hosted meals for homeless within our own church walls seven nights of the week before helping to transport them to Central Lutheran where they could shower, do laundry, and spend the night inside a warm and safe environment. It was a natural progress to press on with our support through the transitions that birthed Camp Hope.

Two Camp Hope residents unloading food from a Grace of Christ delivery last spring.

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One of the biggest continual needs for Camp Hope is the provision of meals, especially dinners. 365 days a year, there are mouths to feed for those who call Camp Hope their residence. Joining other churches and organizations in our community, some of the congregants of Grace of Christ/Gracia de Cristo Church have continued to faithfully provide meals on a monthly basis. It would be wonderful if our church could cover at least one night every week of the month as we have done some years in the past.

Providing a meal at Camp Hope is easily doable by a small team of people! IT IS A GREAT SERVICE OPPORTUNITY FOR A LIFE GROUP to do together ONCE A YEAR, or perhaps even once a quarter.

Does the cost of feeding 75 people sound daunting to your group’s finances?

• Reimbursement is available to cover the cost if you turn in your receipts to the church.

Worried about Covid exposure?

• Serving the meal is optional – you can drop off the meal at the camp and others will dish it up!

Cooking isn’t your gift?

• Contribute financially to the Camp Hope Fund through our church so others can cook.

• Pool your finances and double the blessings by purchasing the meal at a local restaurant or Camp Ghormley and deliver that meal to the camp!

• Supply other needs the camp has such as serviceable and clean blankets, winter socks, sleeping bags, jackets, and other warm clothing.

• Supply gas cards for use for staff to transport residents to appointments.

• Pray regularly for the staff and residence of Camp Hope.

Send notes of encouragement. Call Sheri Rynd at Camp Hope (509) 480-9760 or email: ryndsh@gmail.com and ask how you might volunteer or help their efforts.

Want to know more about providing a meal?

Contact Linda Sorenson at 834-1185 (or) Betty Rosenkranz at 697-9088.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality Ministry Encouraging Words

Only God knows why we are going through this pandemic and He knows how it is affecting our lives. He is in the midst of our challenges and anxious thoughts. His Word promises, “Cast all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7-9) Hospitality and communication with others continue to be very important in sharing our identity in Christ Jesus. This season of limitations provides us with unique opportunities to reach out to others, reminding us that yes, indeed, “Blessed be the ties that bind our hearts in Christian love; the fellowship of kindred minds is like to that above.” (John Fawcett)

Linda Sorenson (509) 834-1185

Loel Labberton (425) 922-7929

interested in helping in this fun opportunity!

Over the months some Elders, Deacons and HMT volunteers endeavored to contact everyone in our church family to check on them, share a prayer, and inquire whether we could help them in any way. We found that many did not answer their phone calls from phone numbers that aren’t familiar, but we trust that the messages left gave encouragement. There are some people in our congregation that are unable to view services online and need a reminder that they are remembered by their church family. We encourage every parishioner to reach out to a few others. Check in phone call or send a card or note in the mail to give a ‘word hug’ to a brother or sister in Christ, or even stop by for a socially distant porch chat! If you are interested in a list of names to call, let Linda Sorenson know! (509-834-1185)

Hospitality Volunteers Needed

As we open the church doors for services again, please consider volunteering if you plan to attend the service in person. Volunteers need to register online as if they will be attending service and wear a mask. Please let us know which area you would be interested in helping in by calling one of the numbers listed below. Volunteers arrive by 9:20am and are ready to begin serving at 9:30am.

Greeters: Linda Sorenson @ 509-834-1135 Ushers: Doug Bernd @ 509-966-9772

(or) Loel Labberton @ 425-922-7929

Check-In: Debbie Meyers @ 509-248-7940 x 109 Hospitality Ministry Team has been invited to join in the efforts to bless the children and their families of Adam’s Elementary to write a hand-written Christmas greeting from our church family to be included in the Angel Tree gifts that will be handed out in December. We would love to have others participate in this act of hospitality! Please let Linda Sorenson or Loel Labberton know if you are 17

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Grace of Christ Church Outdoor Service

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Camp Ghormley Thank You To Our Supporters!

I must start by saying thank you to the many of you that have given sacrificially to help Ghormley weather this COVID storm, which has resulted in our business being mostly shut down since March. Thanks to incredible donor support, we are doing okay financially, especially considering where we could have been. Praise God for His faithfulness in meeting our every need! More information on our financial needs is below.

Year-End Giving

As we near the end of the year, the need for Ghormley to finish this year in a healthy place financially is greater than ever.

While we have been sustained by God’s grace and the gifts of many supporters, the costs of operating our facility rise during the winter months, and we face a long winter ahead as we continue to lose normal business revenue.

If you are able, please consider a year-end gift to sustain the ministry of Camp Ghormley.

Keeping Busy with Facilities Projects

In the absence of being busy with guests this year, we have been working on numerous facilities projects. This includes several bathroom remodels, our outdoor worship stage being rebuilt, and currently in progress is a complete remodel of Spruce Cabin into a staff housing unit. We anticipate the Spruce project being completed by year-end or early 2021.

Outdoor Worship Stage

www.campghormley.com/donate/

We anticipate needing to raise $60,000 in December in order to finish this year in the black financially.

Thank you for your kindness and support!

Prayer Needs

• Pray that God will continue to abundantly supply our financial needs as we come to the end of the 2020 calendar year.

Spruce Cabin Remodel

• Pray for God’s protection over the health and well-being of our Ghormley staff as we continue to weather this COVID storm.

• Pray that the State of WA will modify COVID guidelines for

overnight camp facilities, allowing us to serve guests starting in 2021, and most importantly, allowing us to enter next year with a clear picture of what to expect for the summer camping season.

• Pray that God will allow us to wrap up facilities projects before winter weather arrives, especially the Spruce Cabin remodel.

• Pray that God will guide the Ghormley staff and board as we

Ghormley Goodness Food Sales campghormley.com/goodness

They say that desperation is the mother of invention. That has certainly been true this year as we looked for ways to continue to serve people and generate some revenue during this year.

Thanks to God’s grace and the excellent culinary skill of our Food Service Director, Tom Bandy and his wife, Nicole, we began in June, and continue presently, to sell fresh-made meals which are then delivered at GCPC each Friday. To date we have served over 800 customers since June! This has been a blessing not only to us, but we are delighted to hear from so many people how much this effort has blessed them.

consider the future needs of the ministry, especially as we begin to emerge from the pandemic and attempt to reopen sometime next year.

If you haven’t heard of Ghormley Goodness or haven’t had the opportunity to purchase a meal, please visit our website at campghormley.com/goodness.

www.ghormleymeadow.org 18

509.672.4311

facebook.com/ghormleymeadow

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Preschool — Jessica VanHorn www.yakimapreschool.com

Thankful To Be Back In Preschool!

We have been so thankful to be back in school! The kids are so happy to play with friends in the classroom again! Although a lot about school is different this year, play and learning are still the same. We are not allowing parents into the building to minimize the risk of spreading illness and teachers are wearing masks when in close contact with kids. We are being creative in a lot of ways we wouldn’t normally, so it is a growing year for everybody! We’ve had color days and a pumpkin patch “field trip” and pumpkin parties and lots of painting and playground time. We’ve been busy!

One of my favorite traditions at Thanksgiving is at our Thanksgiving feast when we have parents go around and share something special about their child that they are thankful for. This year parents wrote down what they were thankful for and those papers were read in the classroom to students. Even though parents weren’t with us physically, the words shared meant a lot to the kids and the teachers as well. It will be a wonderful memory to go in the kids’ Me Books for the end of the year! Thank you for your continued prayers for the preschool! Please continue to pray for health and safety for all of our kids and families!

We are having a great year!

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GRACE OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 9 S 8TH AVENUE YAKIMA, WA 98902 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

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