GRACE ALIVE - FEB 2021 - 2020 ANNUAL REPORT

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church Iglesia Presbiteriana Gracia de Cristo

“Love Well Through Drops of Grace”

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FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2020 2021 121 VOL 125

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Head Pastor — Bill Williamson, Pastor

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To say that 2020 was an unusual year does not come close to what we have all experienced. As a world, a country, a city, a church, as individuals and families, we have all been affected and impacted by the events that have turned much of what we have known upside down. This has certainly been a year for the ages. And it seemed as though every month there was a new challenge. To be honest, there was a new challenge every day. No wonder Jesus said: “Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” – Matthew 6:34 We do not know what tomorrow will bring – God does. We won’t know what 2021 will look like – God does. As we live one moment at a time, one day at a time, one month or year at a time, rather than clinging to the past, or putting life on pause, or even being anxious about the future, we lean into what God is doing in the here and now and trust that He is sovereign, and in the midst of uncertainty let us proclaim together: “THY WILL BE DONE!” I believe that God goes before us, forging a path for us to follow, and we just need to trust and obey. I also believe that the God who was with us yesterday, is with us today, and will be with us tomorrow. We can trust God with tomorrow, because He has already been equipping us and preparing for us for what is yet to come. I have certainly found that to be true this year. I find great solace in knowing that God has prepared us for this moment. I find great comfort in knowing that He works all things together for His good and perfect will.

Nothing is wasted by God. As a result of His “good and perfect will” there are many things to celebrate as we look to 2021.

• Pastor Bill kept his Facebook fans

The Shed Guy

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ELDERS 2020 Brent Alderman, Rosanne Bacon, Doug Bernd, Bruce Drollinger, Michele Elledge, Marcus Huck, Janet Krieger, Carla Kupp, Loel Labberton, Rich Milhorn, Linda Sorenson, Jeff Steere, Robin Stuber, Shan Trick and Jeff Arkills (Clerk).

RELAUNCH TEAM: In the beginning of the pandemic, while wondering how the Church needed to respond to the pandemic and the shutdowns, God saw fit to put together what we called a Re-launch Team.” If I’m honest, I thought we would “relaunch” things by September. The reality is that the “Re-launching continues to unfold even today.

4 CORE ESSENTIALS: From the Re-launch Team God revealed to us what we initially called the 4 Core Pillars of what we believed Grace of Christ would need to focus on going forward. I am calling them our 4 Core Essentials, what every follower of Christ needs to participate in and contribute to: Vibrant Worship, Community Life, Spiritual Formation and Discipleship, Missions and Outreach.

ONLINE PRESENCE: As we got further into the pandemic, God began to position us for a global audience through the use of the internet. We have a very talented and creative group of people who have propelled to having a more online presence, particularly through our online Worship. I owe a great deal of gratitude to Debbie Meyers, Dave Geho, John Yolo (too many on the team for me to name, let alone remember at my age), Nate Gross, Jason Wickson, Jon Waite, as well as a variety of musicians and vocalists, and those who were relentlessly working behind the scenes, including Ericka Clark, Jennifer Brice, Tammy Nunley, Dan Barela, Marcus Barela and Maurice Peugh.

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Dear Grace of Christ Family,

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

4 CORE ESSENTIALS: In the middle of the Pandemic God began revealing more of His plans for Grace of Christ.

Conversations and prayers began between Pastor Alex and Pastor Bill, the Gracia de Cristo Advisory Board and the Grace of Christ Elders and staff. God led Raymond Navarro to us, and a vision began to unfold for the two churches becoming One Church. We will be discussing that more in the future as we begin a sermon series called: The 2021 (One) Church.

CONGREGATIONAL LIFE AND CARE: As the pandemic began to go longer than anyone expected, the pressing needs at Grace of Christ became apparent, and God once again provided. In September God added to our staff in the person of Pastor Curt McFarland. What a joy and blessing to have a pastor take leadership in two key areas: Congregational Life and Congregational Care. Plus, Curt brings a multitude of gifts, skills, and talents, including preaching and teaching.

EQUIPPING AND TRANSFORMATION CENTER: Towards the end of this year God began to remind me of the vision the Elders had back in 2019. God is starting to breathe life into what we saw as Grace of Christ being used by God for an Equipping and Transformation Center.

GREAT COMMISSION FUND: This became apparent as God made our Missions Ministry Team, and particularly Don Stuber took on the mantel of training and sending Missionaries for the Great Harvest. The Great Commission Fund is part of our church Foundation. Read more on page 7.

WORSHIP MINISTRY TEAM: At the same time, through the very unfortunate death of beloved Pastor Steve Barker, God reunited me with Aaron Barker. We have invited Aaron to help mentor and coach our Worship Ministry Team. There has also been a resurgence of Intercessory Prayer under the direction of Carla Kupp and others.

FAMILY MINISTRIES: Plus, with the staff transitions in Children’s and Youth, Melissa Gray (Director of Family Ministries) is building a team to help us become innovative in how we serve and minister to families in the church and throughout the valley.

MAKING THINGS NEW IN 2021 GOD MAKES ALL THINGS NEW: I believe God can use us to be a place that equips and trains many for ministry: Missionaries, Worship Leaders, Prayer Warriors and more.

Be praying for God to keep showing us the blueprint for His plans in the upcoming year.

I believe God has been shifting things around, even doing some sifting in order for us to see a harvest that God is bringing about, where lost people are joining the Family of God in ways we could never have imagined or considered if it hadn’t been for all that has gone on throughout 2020. God is indeed going to make all things new. In fact, He is already doing a new thing in our midst and giving us exactly what we need to do His will. So, yes, together we proclaim: “THY KINGDOM COME, THY WILL BE DONE ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN!” Because of Christ, and in His Grace, Pastor Bill

Backyard Birthday

• Williamson family enjoying time together.

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• 2020 quarantine

allowed for more time enjoying God's creation.

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

In the Snow

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Community Life Groups — Curt McFarland, Pastor

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“And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Christ.” – Philippians 1:6 It has been my honor these past few months to rejoin you, friends new and old, here at Grace. Kathaleen and I often reflect on the great years here, and at Ghormley, from the mid 1990’s to the end of 2009. Those were God-blessed years, not all easy, but each one a gift from God. What made it rich for us? The relationships and ministry we shared with you. At camp, here at the church, in New Orleans, at Madison House. And now, after eight wonderful years in Moses Lake, and another three at Memorial hospital, we begin anew, or renewed, journey with you.

“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is He who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him.’” – Matthew 2:1-2 As I write this I am reflecting on this group of wanderers, star gazers, travelers, seekers, adventurers. They are given recognition and honor in the first Christmas story. We don’t know exactly where they came from... we are only told they came from the East. We don’t know how many of them traveled to Bethlehem to greet the newborn king, we assume three because that’s the number of gifts mentioned.

We do know they were motivated, eager, persistent.

They walked, or cameled, into a hornet’s nest. Jerusalem wasn’t looking for a new king. The old king, Herod, was not looking for a new king. The pastors and Bible teachers knew the prophecies that pointed to the birth of a king in Bethlehem, two miles away, but they weren’t looking for a new king. No one we know of, except these foreigners, sought the King of all kings. Before long anger, hatred, and fear would grow in Herod to the point that he would slaughter every boy, two years and younger, in an attempt to eliminate the new king.

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only took a different route home, but that they also returned differently than when they arrived, they returned with changed hearts and minds... they returned another way.

That’s why I have followed Jesus all these years. I know the condition of my heart... not much different than Herod’s, or anyone elses. I know I need to be changed at the core of my being. And, I know (because I’ve tried many times) that I can’t effect much more than superficial change using my own strength and wisdom. I need the miraculous change brought about by this heaven sent King. He is at work in my life, changing me patiently and gradually. Step by step. Day by day. Person by person. Decision by decision. There are times I lose a battle, but He has promised final and eternal victory.

“And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Christ.”

– Philippians 1:6 Those of us here at Grace are learning to trust God more each day, with each heartache, each joy, each difficulty. We are discovering a growing confidence in the promise and power of God to bring about change in us and through us. He can change us, our family and friends, our city, nation, and the world. He is drawing us from the east, the west, north and south. It is King Jesus we seek because He first sought us. And having been found by Him, we return different... changed... another way. In this new year, by God’s Grace, may we love Him more and spread that love across our city and around the world, grace by Grace.

– Pastor Curt

Compelled by God, these Eastern wise men made a perilous, costly journey to see and worship a king in a distant land.

And, having seen and worshiped, and having offered their gifts, they got back on their camels (we assume) and made the long return trip home.

We are told something else... Matthew tells us that God provided a warning, in a dream, about Herod’s evil intent, and so these visitors departed for their country... another way. The Christian writer Frederick Buechner first brought my attention to this simple phrase. He suggested they not 4

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Pastor Curt with Kathaleen and Family

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Community Life Groups ANNUAL REPORT 2020 “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing — as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth.”

– Colossians 1:3-6 (ESV)

COMMUNITY LIFE GROUPS: In a larger church it can be challenging to connect with others in meaningful ways. At Grace we believe in the value of meeting together in smaller community groups. Community Life Groups provide an opportunity to meet together, get to know each other, explore the claims of Christian faith, ask questions, enjoy good food, share in the challenges, sorrows, and joys of life.

Grace of Christ is committed to doing life together. We believe everyone at Grace should be connected to at least one Community Life Group. It’s easy to get involved. The Church website and Church app each provide a simple way to connect. Or you can call the church (248-7940) and they’ll get you started. Your commitment is typically for ten weeks. The focus of each group is on your relationship with God, and your relationship with each other.

AHA: AWAKENING, HONESTY, ACTION: Last Fall many participated in an all-church study using the book “AHA: Awakening, Honesty, Action” to start meaningful conversations about God’s involvement in this world, and in our

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lives. The response was incredible. The stories of how God used that simple study, and more importantly how God used Community Life Groups, to encourage many of us to take another step of faith, was beautiful. All of that, even as we adjusted to all of the meeting restrictions!

COMMUNITY LIFE @ GRACE OF CHRIST Starting in mid to late January of 2021 we will offer several new options for Community Life Groups. Most of the groups from last fall will continue meeting in the new year.

Others will choose to join another group, another study.

Some will opt for the group meeting on Sundays at the church. Each group will decide among themselves whether to study the Sunday preaching themes, study a book about Christian faith, explore a book of the Bible, or decide on something that meets the specific needs of their group.

The staff at Grace will prepare study material for several options; and provide support for those groups who decide to study something of their own choosing.

OUR GOAL: A deeper understanding of Jesus and a deeper confidence in God’s love for us. That will stir in us a deeper love for others in our community and world. That’s a huge goal... but one we believe is possible, by God’s grace, through involvement in a Community Life Group. Give it a ten-week spin and let us know what happens!

IT’S EASY TO GET STARTED… Find out more, get your questions answered, or sign-up: online, with the church app, or by calling the church office (248-7940).

Myers' Life Group Serving Together, 2020 Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Deacon Ministry

MODERATORS 2020: Cathy Simons, Peggy Steere

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

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Michael Bealer, Jeanne Breeding, Ken Breeding, Connie Buckley, Joe Buckley, Doug Doty, Janet Doty, Anneliese Eastridge, Loxi Engebretson, Edith Figueroa-Gonzalez, Debra Girard, Al Harding, Nancy Harding, Rick Larsen, Matt Miles, Sarah Miles, Rinda Mills, Cindy Peugh, Monte Schilperoort, Cathy Simons, Peggy Steere, Alicia Stephens, Kathy Stermolle, Steve Stermolle, Carol Stuhley, Barbara Toweill, Don Ulmer, Jennifer Ulmer, Gloria Valencia-Cerda, Jake Weber, Doris Wheeler

JULY – AUGUST: In July patriotic A N N UA L bouquets were again assembled RE P ORT

by Peggy and distributed by our 2020 deacons to reach out to home centered persons. By July the P E SU CI contact restrictions were even AL I S tighter, so deliveries were limited to leaving flowers and a note at doorsteps or at the front desks of local health facilities.

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BOARD OF DEACONS 2020

SEPTEMBER: In September we were relieved and excited to learn that Pastor Curt McFarland was hired as the Associate Pastor of Congregational Care. Through his leadership and his heart to reach out to the people of Grace, we have been encouraged in our mission as deacons in the church.

It has been an honor for the board of deacons to have served the body of Grace of Christ this year. Yes, it may seem as though we had more challenges this year than in other years. However, the needs are always the same from one year to the next. Each year families grieve the loss of love ones, the homeless are among us, parishioners are home bound, the sick need to be visited and always people need to feel that they are loved by the members of our church.

OCTOBER – DECEMBER: Pastor Curt identified 70 individuals who might benefit from our outreach. We began meeting with individuals via zoom and were able to spring into action. The deacons delivered live plants to families who had lost a loved one this year. Amaryllis flowers were given to those who were home centered, and deliveries of Christmas cards and small homemade gifts were given to those who we were able to connect with through Pastor Curt's discernment.

JANUARY – MARCH: The first three months of 2020 our deacon board served in the usual manner. The deacons prepared the communion elements to be served the first Sunday of the month, regularly visited those who were in the hospital and home bound. A ministry team of deacons reached out to the guests at the Union Gospel Mission quarterly and deacons served families by honoring their loved ones with Celebration of Life receptions.

I have been personally touched when I hear a thank you from congregants who have been encouraged by our outreach, love, encouragement and modest gifts. One area of delight was seeing a deacon help a nursing home resident install the church app on her cell phone. She was so delighted to watch church services and to be connected again to church again.

APRIL: By the first of April, all of our service activities ceased due to the quarantine restrictions to slow the spread of Covid 19. There were challenges to all areas of our ministry teams. Deacon moderators Cathy Simons and Peggy Steere were constantly trying to think of ways for the deacons to serve the members of our church.

MAY – JUNE: In May, the deacons met at the Fred Meyer parking lot and picked up flowers that Peggy Steere had assembled into bouquets from her yard. Deacons delivered the bouquets to the home centered and other people who were identified as needing a gift from the church.

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The needs of the church body continue to grow in this unique time in history. One of those areas is providing a way for families to gather and celebrate their loved ones who have died. We have developed a plan and are ready to serve as soon as restrictions are eased and allow us to do so safely.

We as deacons, with the wisdom and encouragement from Pastor Curt, are longing to find more creative and tangible ways to reach out to our congregation. Praise God that He first demonstrated His love for us, so that we can show His love to others.

Respectfully submitted, Cathy Simons and Peggy Steere Deacon Moderators

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Foundation Ghormley ministers to both church members and the public as well. Numerous schools in Eastern and Western Washington use the facilities for outdoor activities. These are great opportunities for ministry. While many other camps have been closing their doors, Ghormley has been able to remain open thanks to the generosity of many.

Pat and Joe Park

FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS Jana Alderman, Leanne Antonio, Jim Bigelow, Rhonda Dolsen, Tim Drumhiller, Steve Miller, Joe Park, Keith Riffe, David Thorner, and Pastor Bill Williamson

FOUNDATION COMMITMENTS The Foundation of Grace of Christ continues to fulfill its purpose, even in 2020. The committee continued to seek the Lord’s guidance with all requests put before them.

CAMP GHORMLEY: Grace of Christ Foundation supported the continued efforts of keeping up with the maintenance of the Camp Ghormley facility for future generations.

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS: Grace of Christ Foundation donated to a sustaining college scholarship fund.

THE GREAT COMMISSION: This is a new fund that was created with the purpose of supporting future missionaries and mission trips. This is in partnership with the Mission Ministry Team of Grace of Christ. Congregation support will be needed for the Church to continue the mission set forth.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 If one were to go back and review the history of the church, we would see the congregation felt a strong calling to share the gospel not only in the Yakima Valley but also abroad.

Grace of Christ helped to start the local Union Gospel Mission and has sent missionaries to Korea, the Middle East and other worldwide locations. As a Church, we continue to explore creative ways for people of all ages to experience how God can use them.

CAMP GHORMLEY The conditions this year have caused us all to make adjustments we never expected to have to make. This has had a particular impact on Camp Ghormley. The senior staff at Ghormley have taken this time to reflect and pray on how they can continue to provide a place to minister to both youth and adults. Much of the camp is somewhat the same as it was when I attended in the early 1950’s. Some of the ways Camp Ghormley ministers to others have changed since I attended. Facilities require many changes not only to accommodate the changing ways ministry is approached, but also to provide a safe environment for staff and campers.

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Ghormley staff members have developed a long-range plan to upgrade the camp facilities so that it may continue to meet new requirements. Similar facilities are required by regulations and a facility which provides the tools to assist staff in presenting their programs. To do this, they realized they would need to upgrade many of the existing structures along with the usual maintenance of a mature facility.

For example, it has been determined that the buildings need improved fire resistance due to the increased regional fire dangers. Ghormley's vision includes providing a camp which can be utilized all year long and can provide more ministry opportunities. The Ghormley staff approached Grace of Christ Foundation and requested help in creating a fund to accomplish these goals. Through your gifts, as members of the Church and the support of the Foundation, Ghormley has been able to begin the process of raising the necessary funds.

THE GREAT COMMISSION FUND Starting this past fall, “The Great Commission” was created and the Foundation is supporting the launch of a new mission scholarship program. The main objective is to provide the financial support for individuals to become involved in Missions. This includes obtaining the necessary training for short and long term trips for generations to come. The Foundation donated to a sustaining fund, as we have for college scholarships. This will create an opportunity for those who may not have the resources, to experience sharing the gospel in a different environment. I encourage everyone to get involved in a mission experience at home or on the road. It has been a blessing to me.

In short, these are just a few ways that the Foundation is living out the mission given. None of this is possible without the financial support we have received over the years.

Please consider a financial donation to continue our legacy, long after we are gone.

As a final part of this report, I want to take some time to acknowledge how appreciative I am for the opportunity to work with the Foundation Board Members, the Church staff, and elders over the last 20+ years. I will be completing my second term as a board member and the by-laws require, I step away. Their dedication and commitment have made the job of board chair, clerk, and elder an experience I will long remember. I want to express how blessed we are at Grace of Christ by our past and present staff. I can’t express my appreciation for how they go out of their way to make this Church function.

Thank you, Joe Park

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Business Ministry Team and Personnel BUSINESS MINISTRY TEAM ANNUAL REPORT 2020 Janet Krieger, Jeff Gray, Doug Bernd, Tammy Nunley, and Pastor Bill Williamson “But who am I, and who are my people, that we could give anything to You? Everything we have has come from You, and we give You only what You first gave us!”– 1 Chronicles 29:14

expenses during May through August. As per loan regulations we have been able to apply for forgiveness of this loan and are presently awaiting confirmation of the forgiveness.

ASSISTANT PASTOR: A financial gift was received which allowed us to move forward with hiring Pastor Curt McFarland as an assistant pastor. This gift provided Pastor McFarland’s salary for 18 months. Leadership is in prayer and thoughtfully planning how we can establish this position as an ongoing permanent pastoral role at Grace of Christ Church.

“The people and the Levites must bring these offerings of grain, new wine, and olive oil to the Temple and place them in the sacred containers near the ministering priests, the gatekeepers, and the singers.” “So we promise together not to neglect the Temple of our God.” – Nehemiah 10:39

VIDEO CONFERENCING CAMERA: The OWL, a smart video conferencing camera was purchased using Technology budget dollars. The OWL allows individuals off site, via Zoom, to participate in meetings such as Session and other training/ class opportunities.

STEWARDSHIP

HEAT DETECTORS: The building’s heat detectors were replaced during the fall.

Our lives take on the deepest meaning when we use our time, talents and treasures to serve our King. As we practice the discipline of stewardship we grow in our relationship with our God. We hear His call and are guided by His will rather than our own desires. We return to God a portion of that with which He has blessed us. Our stewardship becomes a lifestyle, lived not as a sense of duty, but rather as a generous response to the grace and love of our Father.

Throughout the challenge of 2020, this body of Christ has stood in faith with great generosity, loving each other and our community. Your faithfulness to fulfill pledges made, and many times give above and beyond, has allowed Grace to be able to minister to our church family and the community of Yakima. We have understood that we are the Church, His Body, and are present daily as the earthly representation of Christ, despite being unable to corporately meet together.

DESIGNATED DOLLARS We were able to end the year with a positive bottom line while providing a budget that allowed for generous ministry and missions. The Business Ministry approved use of designated dollars to fund the following items in 2020.

RIGHT NOW MEDIA: The streaming service, Right Now Media, has been purchased for our church members to use as a discipleship tool.

STAFFING AND HOURLY WORK: Staffing and hourly work adjustments were made to allow staff to continue working as much and as safely as possible once regional and statewide COVID restrictions were implemented.

SBA LOAN: A small business administration loan was applied for and received to support payroll and utilities 8

WORSHIP MENTORSHIP: A contract has been developed with Aaron Barker to provide worship mentorship to our Worship Leadership team.

The Business Ministry Team is thankful we are a church that worships our God and shares the blessings we have received with great joy and generosity.

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE 2020 Bruce Drollinger, Tim Drumhiller, Peggy Schaffer, Jeff Steere, and Pastor Bill Williamson

JANUARY – MARCH: The Grace of Christ Personnel Committee updated the policy and procedure manual and it was approved by session. Discussions began regarding adding pastoral staff.

APRIL – AUGUST: Due to Covid 19 quarantine restrictions, staff transitions were eventually necessary as the shutdowns continued, primarily due to Ministry needs, as well as the finances of the church. The Children’s Director position was dissolved, as were Childcare positions and Assistant-Children Ministries positions. In addition, the Students Ministries Director resigned.

SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER: Pastor Curt McFarland was hired as an assistant pastor. Future Staffing for Student Ministries is being considered and prayed about. The Personnel Committee has continued to keep in communication with remaining staff during this trying time. There are no current issues. Some staff have had to quarantine because of contracting or encountering someone who had the virus.

The work of the Church is continuing either from a distance or when circumstances allow, for in-person meetings.

Respectfully, Jeff Steere, Co-Chair

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

INFORME ANUAL 2020

God has allowed us to finish the year, and start a new one in 2021. Things have not been easy because we did not know that in 2020 the whole world would be suffering the consequences caused by Covid-19. Due to the pandemic, many meetings and events that were planned on the calendar were abruptly canceled, our churches were closed, countless workers were laid off due to businesses going bankrupt, and many of the things that are happening continue to affect the way people are living today. Many things are not and will not be the same; that is our reality now, but the most important thing is that God has never abandoned us, He will never give us something beyond what we can bear, this is His word with power, it is His promise, and His promises are always fulfilled every day, and His blessings are fresh every morning.

Dios nos ha permitido terminar el año y comenzar uno nuevo en el 2021. Las cosas no han sido fáciles porque no sabíamos que en el 2020 todo el mundo estaría sufriendo las consecuencias provocadas por el Covid-19. Debido a la pandemia, muchas reuniones y eventos que estaban planeados en el calendario fueron cancelados abruptamente, nuestras iglesias fueron cerradas, innumerables trabajadores fueron despedidos debido a la quiebra de negocios y muchas de las cosas que están sucediendo continúan afectando la forma en que las personas están viviendo hasta el día de hoy. Muchas cosas ya no son ni serán iguales; esa es nuestra realidad ahora, pero lo más importante es que Dios nunca nos ha abandonado, nunca nos dará algo más allá de lo que podamos soportar, esta es Su Palabra con Poder, es Su Promesa y Sus Promesas siempre se cumplen todos los días, y sus Bendiciones son frescas cada mañana.

ONLINE WORSHIP SERVICES: Due to the global pandemic, our church Grace of Christ and churches everywhere were forced to close their doors to the public and families all over the country were required to stay at home and be creative in coming up with different ways to share the Love of God and worship together through the Holy Spirit. This creativeness led to services being recorded from home, and after a bit of editing, being uploaded to the internet so families everywhere could enjoy services at Grace of Christ.

This method of worshiping occurred over a span of many months until our congregation was finally given permission to conduct “In Person” services in English with Spanish translation. We thank God for allowing us to come back to His sanctuary to praise and honor Him. Grace of Christ has never stopped working and our church continues reaching and serving our community to this very day.

“Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples.

For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.” – Psalm 117

ADOPT A FAMILY PROGRAM: Families being laid off across the Valley lead to a great need in many areas. To provide a solution to this problem, we started a program called “Adopt a Family.” Every two weeks for three months, our Church provided families with food during the hardest moments of the pandemic. This helped minimize the effect of their current situation until their previous workplace hired them again or they received new employment elsewhere.

MY PUEBLITO PROJECT: This Year Grace of Christ and the Adam’s community created the “My Pueblito Project” a village atmosphere where God the Father invites our families to join His family with Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit. Together we are one family transformed by the love of God and become the bride (the church) of Christ here on Earth, submitting ourselves to Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

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SERVICIOS DE ADORACIÓN EN LÍNEA: Debido a la pandemia global, nuestra iglesia Gracia de Cristo y las iglesias de todo el mundo se vieron obligadas a cerrar sus puertas al público y las familias de todo el país se vieron obligadas a quedarse en casa y ser creativas para idear formas diferentes de compartir el amor de Dios y la adoración juntos a través del Espíritu Santo. Esta creatividad llevó a que los servicios se grabaran desde casa y, después de un poco de editarlos, se ponían en Internet para que las familias en todas partes pudieran disfrutar de los servicios en Gracia de Cristo. Este método de adoración ocurrió durante un lapso de muchos meses hasta que finalmente se le dio permiso a nuestra congregación para llevar a cabo servicios “en persona” en inglés con traducción al español. Damos gracias a Dios por permitirnos regresar a Su santuario para alabarlo y honrarlo.

Gracia de Cristo nunca ha dejado de funcionar y nuestra iglesia continúa alcanzando y sirviendo a nuestra comunidad hasta el día de hoy.

“Alabad al Señor, naciones todas; alabadlo, pueblos todos.

Porque grande es Su Amor para con nosotros, y la fidelidad del Señor permanece para siempre. Alabado sea el Señor.”

– Salmo 117

Adopt a Family Program / Adopte un Programa Familiar

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English The purpose of My Pueblito is to provide a village-like atmosphere that is centered on Jesus Christ in the SouthEast part of Yakima where people come together as families to get to know each other and build trusting relationships.

Together we will ensure many basic needs are met. We will develop relationships and leadership skills to create unity, respect, and discipline and help their children with mentorship to become successful leaders.

Adams Elementary School Yakima School District

ADAM’S ELEMENTARY BOOK DRIVE: Along with many the state’s public education facilities that have closed their doors to the public, Adams Elementary School also proceeded to move its classroom learning to an online environment. However, a reoccurring problem among many of the households is that parents are struggling with the online portion as they are not tech savvy and at times aren’t able to help their children with their homework. This created an opportunity for our church to come along side these families to help and support them with areas in need and that are very difficult to manage. In addition, Adams created a Book Drive in which they asked Grace of Christ to assist in providing books for K-5th graders and volunteers to deliver books to the students’ homes.

During the Program our volunteers reached out to hundreds of homes and the students and their families were pleased with our visits and gifts. God is good all the time!

En Español PROGRAMA ADOPTE UNA FAMILIA: El despido de familias en todo el Valle genera una gran necesidad en muchas áreas. Para dar una solución a este problema, iniciamos un programa llamado “Adopte Una Familia.” Cada dos semanas durante tres meses, nuestra Iglesia proporcionó alimentos a las familias durante los momentos más difíciles de la pandemia. Esto ayudó a minimizar el efecto de su situación actual hasta que su lugar de trabajo anterior los contrató nuevamente o recibieron un nuevo empleo en otro lugar.

MY PROYECTO PUEBLITO: Este Año, Gracia de Cristo y la comunidad de Adams crearon el Proyecto “My Pueblito”, una atmósfera de aldea donde Dios Nuestro Padre invita a nuestras familias a unirse a Su familia con Jesús Su hijo y Su Espíritu Santo. Juntos somos una familia transformada por el amor de Dios y nos convertimos en la esposa (la iglesia) de Cristo aquí en la Tierra, sometiéndonos a Jesucristo nuestro Señor y Salvador. El propósito de “My Pueblito es proporcionar una atmósfera de aldea que se centra en Jesucristo en la parte sureste de Yakima, donde las personas se unen como familias para conocerse y construir relaciones de confianza. Juntos aseguraremos que se satisfagan muchas necesidades básicas. Desarrollaremos relaciones y habilidades de liderazgo para crear unidad, respeto y disciplina, y ayudaremos a sus hijos con la tutoría a convertirse en líderes exitosos.

COLECTA DE LIBROS DE LA PRIMARIA ADAMS: Junto con la mayoría de las instalaciones de educación pública del estado que han cerrado sus puertas al público, la Escuela Primaria Adams también procedió a trasladar su aprendizaje del aula a una escuela en línea. Sin embargo, es un problema recurrente entre muchos hogares porque los padres están luchando con la parte en línea, ya que no son expertos en tecnología y, en ocasiones, no pueden ayudar a sus hijos con la tarea. Esto creó una oportunidad para que nuestra iglesia se uniera a estas familias para ayudarlas y apoyarlas en áreas de necesidad y que son muy difíciles de manejar.

Además, Adams creó una colecta de libros en la que le pidieron a nuestra Iglesia Gracia de Cristo que los ayudara proporcionando libros para los estudiantes de Kínder y hasta 5to grado y también voluntarios para entregar los libros en los hogares de los estudiantes. Durante el programa, nuestros voluntarios se acercaron a cientos de hogares y los estudiantes y sus familias estaban complacidos con nuestras visitas y obsequios. ¡Dios es bueno todo el tiempo!

GRACE OF CHRIST / ADAM’S GIVING TREE: Each year we celebrate Christmas at Adams Elementary with our Giving ÁRBOL DE REGALOS DE GRACIA DE CRISTO: Cada año Tree Event. Our church provides gifts for 250 students and celebramos la Navidad en la escuela primaria Adams con their families and holds a large event on campus where dinnuestro evento Giving Tree/ Árbol de Regalos. Nuestra iglesia ner is provided along with Christmas carols. Unfortunately, ofrece regalos para 250 estudiantes y sus familias. Este evento this year due to Adam’s Doors being closed to the public se lleva a cabo dentro de la escuela donde se ofrece una cena we were forced to hold a drive thru version of this event on junto con villancicos.

Desafortunadamente, este año debido December 17th. This however did not stop the excitement a que las puertas de Adam se cerraron al público, nos vimos from the families when our volunteers gave them their gifts obligados a realizar una versión de este evento en automóvil with smiles on their faces. God’s Giving Tree at Adams was My Pueblito Helping with Trunk or Treat at Madison House el 17 de Diciembre.

Sin embargo, esto no detuvo la emoción a total success.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

Adams Dando Árbol, 2020 Adams Giving Tree, 2020 The students and their families received many gifts and the love of God through all our volunteers. We appreciate all the hard work that everyone gave to make this event possible. Words cannot express all the Joy, all the Peace, and all the Love that we felt as it is beyond understanding.

The day prior to this year’s Giving Tree, the weather was predicted to be 100% rain. But God emptied and drained all the clouds so that we would have a beautiful sunny day and a wonderful evening at our event. All was calm, all was bright. The light of Jesus illuminated the place and God protected everyone under His wings. Thank you to all our volunteers for their time and effort, and for Loving Well with Drops of Grace. Thank you, Pastor Bill and Pastor Curt, for your great leadership and Thank you Adams Elementary for letting our church show the love of Jesus with your students and their families.

BLESSING IN 2020: We may continue having Zoom meetings, using face masks, and keeping our distance from one another to protect God’s children, but we will never stop loving God and loving our neighbors as we love ourselves.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 Grace of Christ wishes you and your family a very successful year 2021. May God Blesses you with His Love always!

de las familias cuando nuestros voluntarios les entregaron sus regalos con una sonrisa en sus rostros. El Árbol de Regalos de Dios en Adams fue un éxito total. Los estudiantes y sus familias recibieron muchos regalos y el amor de Dios a través de todos nuestros voluntarios. Agradecemos todo el arduo trabajo que todos dieron para hacer posible este evento. Las palabras no pueden expresar toda la alegría, toda la paz y todo el amor que sentimos, ya que está más allá de la comprensión. El día anterior a este evento se pronosticó que el clima sería 100% lluvia. Pero Dios vació y exprimió todas las nubes para que tuviéramos un hermoso día soleado y una maravillosa noche en nuestro evento. Todo estaba en calma, todo era brillante.

La luz de Jesús iluminó el lugar y Dios protegió a todos bajo sus alas. Gracias a todos nuestros voluntarios por su tiempo y esfuerzo, y por Amar bien con Gotas de Gracia. Gracias Pastor Bill y Pastor Curt por su gran liderazgo y gracias a la primaria Adams por permitir que nuestra iglesia muestre el amor de Jesús con sus estudiantes y sus familias.

BENDICIÓN EN 2020: Es posible que sigamos teniendo reuniones por medio de Zoom, usando máscaras faciales y manteniendo la distancia entre nosotros para proteger a los hijos de Dios, pero nunca dejaremos de amar a Dios y a nuestro prójimo como nos amamos a nosotros mismos.

"Porque tanto amó Dios al mundo que dio a Su Hijo unigénito, para que todo aquel que en Él crea no se pierda, mas tenga vida eterna." – Juan 3:16 Gracia de Cristo les desea a usted y a su familia un año 2021 muy exitoso. ¡Que Dios los bendiga con Su Amor Siempre!

Working for the Kingdom of God, – Pastor Alex Rule 11

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

Trabajando para el Reino de Dios, – Pastor Alex Rule

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Worship Ministry Team GOD’S GOT TECH COVERED A LOOK BACK AT 2020 – ANNUAL REPORT GRACE ALIVE APP: God’s perfect timing was so evident in 2020 as we wrapped up preparation in February to launch the new Yakima Grace App on Sunday, March 1, and then two weeks later Covid hit! During the next couple of weeks, we finalized the transition to a new web platform that integrated well with the new App making it easy and seamless to post media to both platforms. There were a few hiccups, though, at the beginning.

SERVICES: We began online services with worship leaders recording from home, uploading clips, to Dropbox, editing the clips together, and posting the final video to the website & App on Saturday evening. Several folks chose to gather together on Facebook when it set to “stream live” at 9am on Sunday Morning. Services were also posted to our new Yakima Grace YouTube channel.

Sensing that many missed worshiping in our beautiful Sanctuary, in May, worship leaders began recording their segments in church. It gave the look of returning to church – even though the final service was still being edited together.

It just wasn’t the same.

What a joy it was to come together in person on Sept 20 when we held an outdoor worship service in the parking lot that was also live-streamed to Facebook and YouTube.

Plus, we added a live audio broadcast of the service on 105.1 FM – which continues even today if you’re in the immediate vicinity of the church building.

In October, restrictions for Houses of Worship were eased allowing us to come together for worship in the building that was also live-streamed to Facebook and YouTube and posted later that morning to our App and Website. The forms feature on our website made it easy to accept reservations to track attendance so we could adhere to county health guidelines.

In November, we switched to the live-stream service offered by our App and Website provider so we are now able to offer live services simultaneously on all platforms.

ZOOM: Oh, and then there was Zoom. In March, we quickly activated two Zoom accounts for use by staff, ministry teams and a few of our community life groups. We also setup VPNs (secure internet connections) on church laptops and a few home computers allowing staff to work remotely from home.

Staying Connected Through Zoom in 2020

PRAYER MINISTRY God calls us to worship Him in Spirit and in truth for Jesus says, “these are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.”

True worship comes from the heart. Psalm 95 says, “Today, if you hear His voice do not harden your hearts.” The attitude of our hearts is an important element of worshiping in Spirit and truth. The Worship Teams have been challenged during this Covid time as instruments and even singing has been restricted, but we have experienced a work of the Lord in our hearts.

“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.” – Psalm 95:6-7

SOZO: Sozo is an inner healing and deliverance ministry which consists of a team of trained volunteers from the community. Currently we have 24 members on our team and offer Sozo appointments three days a week. Before the shutdown we were averaging 1-2 Sozos a week. We have seen God do so many amazing things through this ministry.

TECH TEAM: Special Thanks to the Tech team who has remained faithful during this time: Debbie Meyers, Karen Laurvick, Larry Hasen, Julie Hunziker, Dave Geho, John Yolo, Debbie Dougherty and Peggy Steere. Though technology has offered many ways for us to stay in touch with each other and even connect with our missionaries in far off lands, we do look forward with hope to the day when we are able to come together in both large and small groups to worship and serve our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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Prayer and Social Distancing in 2020

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Worship Ministry Team Media/Tech CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP

Nathan Gross

TEMPLE CHOIR / JASON WICKSON

Greetings from Nathan Gross, Director of Contemporary Worship Ministries at Grace of Christ. 2020 has been an interesting year for our ministry, but we are grateful to know that worship is about so much more than singing songs on Sunday morning! My prayer is that through this time, we are all able to draw closer to the Lord and continue to grow in our understanding of what it means to truly worship Him.

This season has allowed our team to think outside the box and be there for each other through many different blessings and difficulties. From online recordings to live streams to returning to worship in-person and then getting set back again, our team has shown a great amount of grit and resilience throughout. I have loved seeing how we have stepped up to help each other in times of need and how our prayers for each other have grown even stronger through this time.

I am not sure what God has in store for us, but I believe it will be something amazing, and I am excited to see where He leads. We continue looking forward to a time when we are all able to worship together in our beautiful sanctuary and continue praying that it can happen sooner than later! I pray that God’s love, grace, kindness and mercy will continue to be with you today and every day!

As we approach this Christmas, it is hard to believe that it has only been one year since our beautiful Carols and Candles service of 2019. These nine months during the pandemic have been challenging for everyone, but the challenge for our choir has been especially severe. The loss of the ability to worship with our voices and express our praise as an ensemble has created heartache.

Jason Wickson But we know our God is Great and He has sustained us and continues to keep us united.

The first months of the Temple Choir’s 2020 season were fulfilling, enjoyable, and fun. We were learning new repertoire, applying new vocal concepts, and refining vocal literature gems from the past. I had the great pleasure of conducting the choir's signature piece, “The Majesty and Glory of Your Name” for the first time. It was a memorable moment, that brought us together even closer. We also have a new piece, that we have loved singing and learning, “The Yearning.”

This piece was slated for the Sunday worship service, which never happened at the start of the Covid era. We have all expressed how we still have a great yearning to sing this piece for our congregation and God’s glory.

This pandemic has limited our ability to sing our praises as a choir, but it has not stopped us from staying connected as a group. Members of our choir have made audio recordings that we assembled for online services, they have contributed by singing in small ensembles and as soloists, we met for a socially distanced get together in Franklin Park, had regular virtual choir meetings via Zoom, and created a study group on AHA. The members of our choir are all dear to my heart and are some of the most extraordinary people I have ever met. The Love of God that they show to me and each other continually astounds me. They have been a balm to my soul in troubling times and always there to celebrate in happy moments. We know that God will sustain us and will create endurance for our passion for singing together.

Contemporary Worship, 2020 13

Temple Choir, 2020 Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Family Ministry — Melissa Gray

FAMILY MINISTRY VISION STATEMENT Our vision is to grow as a multi-generational church family that is actively involved in training and equipping our families to be the primary spiritual trainers of their children, striving to provide effective youth ministries, and building up one another through large and small group experiences.

FAMILY MINISTRY DIRECTOR Melissa Gray – Director Jenifer Knight – Assistant

OUR MISSION

• Offer a grace-filled atmosphere where people can

discover God's love in a multi-generational and multicultural setting.

• Provide a warm, authentic atmosphere of vibrant

worship that includes families and is meaningful to believers of all ages.

• Include families in all aspects of the church fellowship, traditions, and ministry.

• Express our faith to our neighbors as families through

Kindness Exchange to Bless Yakima Firefighters

MISSION AND OUTREACH: Family at Grace continues to support the Yakima Fire Department by collecting water, Gatorade, nuts and beef jerky to keep the firemen hydrated and energized as they work to keep our community safe.

With many changes taking place during this past year, a kindness exchange was set up to ensure the fire department still received these vital supplies. Children and families were able to exchange their donated items for fun activities from local businesses throughout Yakima. Creative Yakima donated pottery projects, Meadowbrook Fun Center donated family passes, Splash Monkey donated water balloons and Yakima Ice Company donated shave ice. The week ended with a visit from the Yakima Fire Department and a socially distanced water balloon fight with the firefighters.

ministries of mercy and compassion.

• Growing together as disciples of Jesus Christ by offering

resources to support the various aspects of family life; marriage, parenting, finance, supporting children through all phases of their growth and development.

• Guiding our church family from a “me” mentality to a “we” mentality.

Grace Family Dinner, February 2020

GRACE FAMILY DINNERS: Family at Grace transitioned from monthly family dinner/game nights to holding old time family dinners each month beginning in January 2020. We were able to successfully hold a dinner in January, February and March with wonderful meals, worship, and conversation around the tables. We look forward to being able to gather in this way again in the future!

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Family Ministry

Trunk or Treat, October 2020

Children's Ministry

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY: In January, February and early March children were able to attend Sunday School in person. Preschool and Kinder attended in their classroom as they journeyed through the Bible with their Sunday School Leaders. Elementary children had the opportunity to Journey to Narnia with Sonny Salsbury in their classroom that had been transformed into the land of Narnia.

From mid-March forward, Children’s Ministry slowly transitioned to offering family friendly Bible lessons and activities available online each week. Family Ministry continues to offer online worship opportunities with online music, videos and weekly family devotions, games, crafts, and recipes.

Family at Grace offers two social media opportunities through Instagram and Facebook. These offer great daily content with information about children, parenting, faith, fun family activities, conversations starters and more.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT: Family at Grace hosted a family friendly, socially distanced event on Halloween. The event was a huge success, due to the support of wonderful volunteers who decorated cars, passed out candy and helped direct families through the line. With very few options available to families this year, the Halloween alternative was well received by the community.

Small Group Student Ministry

STUDENT MINISTRY: Student Ministry began the year with meetings on Wednesday Nights that included a dinner, games, and group discussion time. Beginning in mid-March, meetings transitioned to online Zoom check-ins. Snacks were delivered to the homes of students and online discussion and games were played.

Student Ministry has now transitioned to a small group ministry. Students have been placed into groups of 3-4 with 1-2 adult leaders. Meetings take place outside of the church building, often times meeting in coffee houses, parks or homes. These small groups have been a wonderful way for students to connect in a deeper way with one another and their leaders.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

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

PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR Jessica Van Horn What a year this has been! We closed our doors to in-person learning back in March. It seems so long ago. Teachers prepared at-home learning packets for the last two and a half months of school and we were able to have a drive-through graduation. I’m so thankful for the teachers’ willingness to continue to help their students learn despite not being together every day.

Fortunately, we were able to open back up in October this year.

We had many families express concerns over the summer about re-opening and because of that, our numbers decreased significantly. We have only two classrooms this school year, a 4-day 3’s/4’s class and a 5-day 4’s/5’s class.

Because of budgetary restrictions with only two classrooms and fewer children than a typical year, I stepped into the 5-day lead teacher position.

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It is a lot to manage, but I am so thankful for the teachers we have in place. Each one is willing to do what needs to be done and has been gracious with me when I am stretched thin.

My word for this school year has been “flexibility.” With everything going on in the world, it has been so important for us as a preschool, to be understanding of everyone’s concerns and work with families and their needs. The ability for children to play with other children has been immensely important for so many families and I have seen the benefit of these interactions. We were not created to live in isolation and I truly believe this year has proved that.

My four kiddos sure got tired of just seeing mom and dad all the time. As soon as in-person school was opened, a weight shifted in our house and our kids were so much happier and so much more willing to do the work they needed to get done on the computer.

I am so grateful we have been able to open the preschool with guidelines in place to keep teachers, children, and families safe and healthy. Parents are not allowed in the building or classrooms and we do drop–off and pick–up outside. Thankfully, kids and parents have transitioned nicely with that change and we have worked our best to keep those times as efficient as possible. We have also tried to keep everything as normal as we can. We had a “pumpkin patch field trip” to the church’s north lawn. We had our annual pumpkin parties and our Thanksgiving feast. Parents wrote down what they were thankful for about their child and teachers shared this with each student during a time of Thanksgiving. We had an inclassroom gingerbread man hunt. And we were able to have two “live” Christmas Program performances over social media. Families were able to watch (online) as the classes performed live. It was also nice to have some inperson staff members sharing their applause.

My hope for this coming year is that the preschool will begin, once again, to thrive. It has been a rough year, but I believe that everything happens for a reason and this year has been a good rebuilding year for us and a year for us to grow in ways we didn’t think we would. We continue to be thankful for all the ways Grace of Christ continues to support the preschool. We are so thankful to be able to share the love of God in tangible ways to the Yakima community.

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

– Jessica Van Horn Director of Grace of Christ Preschool

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Preschool 5 Day Class (4 & 5 years): Monday-Friday, 9:00am – 12 Noon. This class is for older children geared more toward our usual PreK classroom curriculum. There is a greater emphasis on writing along with letter and number recognition. Social development is also fostered in a positive environment where students participate as a member of a larger group.

PRESCHOOL STAFF (2020-2021)

Ryan Clinkenbeard and Jenifer Knight in the 4-day (3’s/4’s) Class and Jessica Van Horn and Becky Gruenberg in the 5-day 4’s/5’s classroom.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS (2020-2021)

CLASSES 2019-20 SCHOOL YEAR 2 Day Class: Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 am – 12 Noon.

3 Day Class: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9:00 am – 12 Noon.

Afternoon PreK: Monday – Friday, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm.

Morning Kinder Prep: Monday – Thursday with a Friday fun day option, 9:00 am – 12 Noon.

PRESCHOOL STAFF (2019-2020)

Crystal Lopez and Jenifer Knight (2 and 3 Day Classrooms), Katrine Schraan (KinderPrep and Pre-K lead teacher) and Shereé Tsubota (KinderPrep and Pre-K assistant teacher).

Starting in November 2019, we added a one-on-one teacher in the Two-Day classroom, Lori Milliren.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS (2019-2020)

Jennifer Brice, Shannon Carlson, Lindsay Ellithorpe, Melissa Gray (Family/Children’s Ministry Director), Monnie Miller (Children’s Ministry Director), and Amanda Zediker.

Jennifer Brice, Melissa Gray (Family Ministry Director), and Amanda Zediker.

GRACE OF CHRIST PRESCHOOL For the past 40 years, we have welcomed families from around the Yakima Valley to learn about God’s word and receive one of the best Early Childhood Educations this area has to offer. Families receive more than just an education at our preschool; they become part of our community, they engage in Grace of Christ’s Children and Family Ministries, and often make this their church home. Grace of Christ Preschool helps children develop awareness and confidence in God’s love and power. We encourage a positive self-image so that children may develop confidence in their God given abilities.

We foster a positive environment where students participate as a member of a larger group, practice self-control, learn methods to resolve conflicts in a positive manner, and develop a lifelong love of learning. The children who come through this program are well equipped to begin kindergarten.

CLASSES 2020-21 SCHOOL YEAR

CURRICULUM: We utilize the Handwriting Without Tears Curriculum. This curriculum introduces handwriting in a way that is simple, fun, and developmentally appropriate. We have also started incorporating curriculum from Pocket of Preschool which is program developed by a preschool teacher that focuses on fine motor skills, science, beginning math, and so much more. Each week children have a 30-minute music lesson with their teachers. During this time, children develop musical appreciation and understanding and learn how to identify different instruments by sight and sound.

Music also incorporates movement, direction following, and dramatic play. The classes also participate in 30 minutes of PE per week. This is a fun way for kids to work on their gross motor skills without even knowing it. Playing games and running in the gym is definitely a favorite.

4 Day Class (3 & 4 years): Monday-Thursday, 9:00am – 12 Noon. This class is for children who are three years old and barely four years old by the start of the school year. This class has been focusing on the social development of children and how to interact appropriately with children their own age. They are also beginning letter and number recognition.

CHAPEL: Mrs. Van Horn leads a weekly chapel for both classes. We are going through the Fruits of the Spirit this school year. Each month we concentrate on one Fruit of the Spirit. We are also working through The Jesus Storybook Bible. Each week we read a different story from the Bible and each week the story points us to Jesus.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality Ministry COMMITTEE CHAIRS 2020

to check in with others to see how they were doing, to pray with people over the phone, and to relay praises and prayer requests back to the church and into the prayer letter.

Linda Sorenson and Loel Labberton

CHECK-IN VOLUNTEERS: In September, greeters, ushers, and the new “check-in” volunteers were back on duty for the restart of our on-site worship at outdoor services and then back in the building in October, in addition to online viewing.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 WELCOME TO GRACE: During the first couple of months of 2020, the Hospitality Ministry Team was busy welcoming people and helping them to feel a part of the family at Grace. Elder Loel Labberton became co-chair of Hospitality Ministries and new ushers were added to the Usher Team.

GIVING TREE In December, several HMT volunteers partnered with Missions and helped with The Giving Tree Project by handwriting 200 Christmas cards in English and in Spanish conveying expressions of love from our congregation to families of Adams Elementary who received gifts. Also, in December, HMT volunteers along with church staff and leadership, reached out again to the congregants via phone calls or Christmas cards.

Ushers (Don, Terry, Bruce)

SANCTUARY GUILD: The Sanctuary Guild added to the joy of gathering indoors by beautifully decorating the sanctuary for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

TAILGATE REFRESHMENT: Always ready to celebrate the joys and fun of our church family, we couldn’t resist hosting a “Tailgate Refreshment” after the worship service and the Annual Meeting on February 2, which just happened to fall on Super Bowl Sunday.

Youth Group at Ash Wednesday Dinner

Tailgate Refreshments, February 2020

ASH WEDNESDAY MEAL AND BAPTISM: Later in February, we rejoiced together in a celebration of baptism, and shared a simple meal on Ash Wednesday as we entered into Lent February 26. Shortly thereafter HMT activities took a bit of a “pause” due to the building closure during the pandemic.

That said, the church – the Body of Christ, is so much more than a building!

CONNECTING WITH PARISHIONERS: In the later spring months, and parts of summer, and again in December, HMT volunteers and others took on the task of attempting to call the home of every parishioner. Hundreds of calls were made 18

Over 125 People Attended the Ash Wednesday Dinner

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality Ministry JOY IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES: Reflecting back of the challenges of 2020, the phone conversations touched our hearts. What stood out was that so many shared their hearts of gratitude and their faith in the Lord's presence in the midst of the unknowns and challenges of the pandemic.

Many shared that they were reading the Bible.

him that he had a rhino type personality, charging through life whereas he claimed me to be the opposite. It stood up during the years and resulted in literally hundreds of rhino gifts: cards, photos, t-shirts, stuffed animals and artwork given to him by many family and friends. In essence this was his identity and the legacy with which he left us.”

The simple testaments of faith were encouraging and brought to mind the passage in Revelation 12:11, “They triumphed over him (Satan) by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” The disruption of our accustomed routines and a change of pace afforded more time to examine the Lord's priorities and I was reminded that we are to “...do justly, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God.” Micah 6:8, as we deepen our identity in Jesus.

Steve was honored to become Pastor Emeritus when he contracted Parkinson’s Disease and retired with a disability in 2007. He passed away November 7, 2020. Steve was truly one of a kind and one of the kindest guys around. I’m blessed to have known him.

– Ericka Clark

ELDER LOEL LABBERTON: We will miss Loel’s warm and friendly face in the halls of our church. His sudden departure to Heaven on December 30, 2020 has left a hole on the hospitality ministry team. He had the heart of hospitality – welcoming and engaging others with a genuine interest.

After moving to Yakima, Loel and wife, Jan, quickly became active on the hospitality ministry team serving cookies, greeting, working at the welcome center, and helping with events. Loel’s relaxed and positive manner along with his “can-do” work attitude was a gift to those who served with him and to the rest of the church family. His leadership will be missed as chairperson of the Hospitality Ministry Team, but he would be quick to remind us that it is the LORD who makes a way and provides for all we need.

UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN PASTOR EMERITUS STEVE BARKER: Pastor Steve Barker joined the pastoral staff at "First Pres" in 1984. He was an evangelist and was passionate about sharing the love of Jesus with others.

Pastor Steve’s enthusiasm with small groups was contagious. He was devoted to seeing as many people as he could reach, get connected to a group.

When I joined the staff at First Pres, I admired Pastor Steve’s open-door policy. So many of our church family took to it to heart. Whether they were coming to hear a joke, tell a joke, get advice or just talk, Pastor Steve was always interruptible.

His office was part of the main church office, so I spent a few years working along side him. I remember one time a church member brought Steve her famous “Pastor Pie” – Marionberry. Marry and bury! That’s what pastors do! He did love his pies. I’m pretty sure we had lemon meringue at every April staff birthday lunch.

MAXINE A. (ELLIOTT) TATRO: Maxine baked cakes for our Hospitality Ministry Team celebrations for over 30+ years.

She lived 90 glorious years.

We will miss Maxine and her ministry to our children. She passed away October 12, 2020.

Do you remember how Pastor Steve’s office was filled with Rhinos? Are you curious how that connection began? His best friend, Tom Oliva, shared this story with me and I asked if I could share it with you...

“It was on that same trip in 1985 (to Disneyland) that the great Rhino Era started. On the drive back our (Olivas) family stopped at the Crystal Cathedral and I spotted a book called 'Rhino Success' about the difference between a rhino personality and an animal of extreme opposite trait, a sheep or some such animal. You have to understand that almost immediately after we got acquainted, I confided in 19

WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT...

ENTER INTO

the joy of your master

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– MATTHEW 25:23

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality Ministry BAPTISMS 2020 SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM (FEBRUARY 9, 2020) Ellie Mae Dolsen, Born May 30, 2011, parents Adam and Morgan Dolsen Aldo Ridge Norman, September 33, 2019, parents Mark and April Norman

BABY CELEBRATIONS 2020 ROSEBUDS IN HONOR OF BIRTHS: Throughout the year we place a rosebud at the front of the sanctuary on Sunday morning in recognition and celebration of a birth in our church family. The following are the little ones honored in 2020.

Aldo Norman, Baptism

Ellie Dolsen, Baptism

HOSPITALITY MINISTRY 2021 GRACIA DE CRISTO: As we welcome 2021, we are excited to worship with Gracia de Cristo and hope to add new members to the Hospitality Ministry Team Board.

Natalie Elin Rosenkranz

Charlotte Jo Sissen

Phoebe Estele “Bright Star” Hantz, Born 8/23/20 to parents Travis and Megan (Marshall) Hantz and grandparents David and Ginger Marshall/Phil Hantz and Bonnie Stults Esther Irene Laurvick, Born 10/29/20 to parents Peter and Jennifer Laurvick and grandparents Dwight and Karen Laurvick Maeve Fayre Maurice, Born 10/15/20 to parents Blaine and Ashley Christopherson Maurice and grandparents Sam and Amy (Bernd) Christopherson, and greatgrandparents Doug and Karen Bernd

INSTALLATION OF PASTOR BILL WILLIAMSON: We hope to finally have the opportunity to celebrate the God’s gift of providing our church with Pastor Bill and install him as head pastor and to simply to fellowship together after worship service.

It will be wonderful if all these plans should come to pass, but as we have learned this past year, we need to humbly preface every plan as James exhorts in 4:15, “If the Lord is willing, then we will live and do this or that.” As we wait upon the LORD, may we abide in the assurance of His faithfulness and goodness in the midst of all circumstances and His promise in Romans 8:28, “...we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, even to them that are called according to His purpose.”

Lennon Rae Melvin, Born 5/26/20 to parents B J & Leah (Bealer) Melvin and grandparents Michael Bealer, and Leslie and John Cameron Natalie Elin Rosenkranz, Born 9/28/20 to parents Curtis and Carrie Rosenkranz and grandmother Betty Rosenkranz Charlotte Jo Sissen, Born 7/22/20 to parents Nathan and Ashley Sissen, grandparents Steve and Tammy Nunley, and Shane and Michele Sissen 20

Serving cake at a baby celebration (Sheryl, Pat, Vivian)

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Upcoming Events FAMILY SNOW DAY AT CAMP GHORMLEY SUNDAY | JANUARY 24 | 1:30 – 3:30PM Join us for a fun afternoon of sledding, snowshoeing and more.

Details to be amended as state guidelines are updated.

RSVP on your Connect Card, to Melissa.gray@yakimagrace.

com, or respond using our online event form on the Family at Grace Facebook page to reserve a spot for your family.

WORSHIP AND ANNUAL MEETING SUNDAY | JANUARY 31 | 10 AM LIVE Join us as we review where we have been and where we are going as a Church.

Our Vision. Our Future.

DOING COMMUNITY LIFE TOGETHER Starting in mid to late January of 2021 we will offer several new options for Community Life Groups. The staff at Grace will prepare study material for several options; and provide support for those groups who decide to study something of their own choosing.

GET STARTED | See page 5 of Grace Alive for more information or sign-up: online, with the church app, or by calling the church office (248-7940).

ASH WEDNESDAY 2021 Ash Wednesday will be on February 17th, 2021. A time of silence for prayer and Scripture will be provided in the Sanctuary beginning at 6:00pm. A modified Ash Wednesday Service will begin at 6:30pm in accordance with any safety guidelines at the time.

PRAY YAKIMA 24.7 2ND SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH | FEBRUARY 14 Come alongside Yakima churches and ministries as we offer 24/7 prayer – 365 days a year – on behalf of our Yakima Valley. If you would like to join the team and set aside just 15 minutes to pray for Yakima on the 2nd Sunday of every month, please send us an email: Ericka@yakimagrace.com 21

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry “Equipping disciples to love and serve our neighbors”

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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.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020 Despite the challenges of COVID-19, the Mission Ministry Team of Grace of Christ has experienced a productive year, lending support to our missionaries and growing our team and its impact. Let’s look at a few highlights:

MISSION SUNDAY: Taking place on October 18th, Sacred Road Ministries, our newest mission organization Partner, was officially introduced to the congregation. This vital ministry serves the Yakama Nation in the White Swan/Harrah area, one of the poorest communities in our nation. Sacred Road offers hope and Jesus to a “forgotten” population affected by poverty, despair, and substance abuse. Guest Pastor Joshua Tsavatewa shared the message “Getting Unstuck” where we learned that through an encounter with Jesus, our lives are forever changed.

Bags of Hope Collected for Campbell Farm

BAGS OF HOPE: Albeit a challenge due to practicing social distancing and observing COVID guidelines, Bags of Hope (BOH) carried on. In order to bypass physical contact and thereby decrease the likelihood of contracting COVID, MMT decided to depart from our traditional mode of collection and go to a contact-less format. Knowing that the odds and obstacles were stacked against a successful campaign, the mission team decided to pull out all stops. First off, to make the request via video, MMT called upon the expert and commanding voice of professional (and Grace member) Lou Bartelli. Wanting to gain a favorable response, and setting aside all airs, MMT brought forth the cuteness of four-year-old Luke Arkills. After all, who could resist or deny 22

such special talent? The Bags of Hope effort was deemed a success, garnering provisions for Campbell Farm. This successful formula was once again implemented, this time for Adams elementary back-to-school needs. Prior to the COVID-19 protocols, Love, INC was a January recipient of your BOH donations.

YAKIMA UNION GOSPEL MISSION (YUGM): The Mission Ministry Team partnered with the Foundation of Grace of Christ to provide winter shelter that would meet the requirements of COVID-19.

Unable to house some 160 individuals inside the structures of the former motel buildings, the leadership from the Yakima Union Gospel Mission and its board came up with a unique and practical way to keep this community warm and safe.

Drawing upon CEO/Executive Director Mike Johnson’s past Army Ranger training, army tents were set up and staked behind the Mission’s primary grounds. Next, the tents were equipped with custom made floor structures that included a layer of insulation and an additional plywood layer.

Supplemental heat was also added.

CAMP HOPE: Another way that the Mission Ministry Team helps to offer hope to those experiencing homelessness in our community is through Camp Hope.

In addition to our monetary support and meals, the Mission Ministry was also able, through your generosity, to provide a new washer and dryer along with laundry supplies to Camp Hope.

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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

Grace+Goodness (pronounced Grace plus Goodness) was created by the Mission Ministry Team to support the ministry of Camp Ghormely and its recipients. The concept is to create a double blessing, if you will, by purchasing meals from Camp Ghormley to boost their COVID related fund-raising efforts and to then share the meals as a way to love our neighbors. To date, the residents of Mabel Swan Manor have been treated to a “Thanksgiving Meal in a Bag” that was prepared by Ghormley and then packaged and delivered by MMT. Trailseeker youth helped to decorate the Thanksgiving brown bags. More Grace+Goodness meals are planned for the future.

THE GREAT COMMISSION FUND: A New Addition to the Grace of Christ Foundation – GO! MAKE, DISCIPLES! Mathew 28:19-20. After much blood, sweat and prayer, the Mission Ministry Team is pleased to announce that a long-standing dream has become a reality. The Great Commission Fund, an arm of Grace of Christ’s Foundation, has now been established. This permanent endowment will grow in perpetuity and will serve as a means to augment the long and rich missions’ legacy that Grace of Christ proudly holds. Some of the ways that the Great Commission Fund will cultivate this legacy are by: 1) adding to the financial support of global missions, 2) producing more young missionaries from the Yakima Valley, 3) and partially funding Grace of Christ members and youth participants to go on mission trip(s).

MOMENT FOR MISSIONS: Returning as a regular feature this past year, Moment for Missions has been a great way to get to know more about our mission partners and organizations.

Providing updates and linking names with faces, the third Sunday of the month has been dedicated to this platform.

We have heard from: 1) Aaron Barker of Youth with Mission 23

(YWAM Hawaii), 2) Garth Gustafson (YWAM Cambodia), 3) Dr. Tim Teusink (SIM France & Ethiopia), 4) Emily McIndoo (CRU formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ), 5) David, Noni and family (JAARS/Wycliffe) and others.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: You also heard from some of our missionaries during the Season of Advent by means of the Advent Candle lighting videos which carried the theme “Home for the Holidays.” This brought home the sacrifices that our missionaries undergo in order to take up a mantle of faith and serve our Lord. Oftentimes, missions are in faraway places which require leaving the comfort and familiarity of “home.” Lighting the Hope candle were the Graves, the Joy candle the Gustafsons, the Peace candle the Barkers, the Love candle the Teusinks, and the Christ candle was lit by the McIndoo family. Each mission family lit Lighting the Love the advent candle and shared a Advent Candle scripture along with a prayer. with the Teusinks

Lighting the Joy Advent Candle with the Gustafsons

Lighting the Hope Advent Candle with the Graves

MISSIONS WEBPAGE: Also established this past year, thanks to Grace’s tech guru Debbie Myers, is a Missions webpage. Please check it out. You will find updates from our missionaries as well as a donation link.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry •

MISSION PARTNERS

Teusinks – SIM, France – As a medical doctor, Tim has a unique perspective and amazing insight as a Christian speaker. Now based in France, Tim continues to travel and speak to a variety of audiences, training missionaries on health practices from a Biblical perspective. Muriel is continuing her library and educational missionary work in France.

• Barkers – YWAM

(Youth with a Mission), Hawaii

Aaron and Ronda Barker are missionaries with YWAM and are currently based at the YWAM sending base in Kona, Hawaii. Pastor Emeritus Steve & Aaron Barker Aaron’s skills in music ministry are a blessing to the YWAM missionaries at the base and those around the world.

• Austyn Chynoweth – FCA (Fellowship of Christian

Athletes), Yakima – Austyn Chynoweth is a local staff member of the FCA. Austyn, through her faith, enthusiasm and dedication uses God's word, along with the avenue of sports, to share the life-changing message of salvation to athletes in the Yakima Valley.

• Creative Access Nation, Egypt – Due to the sensitivity

of where they serve, and because of the digital age, no information will be provided. Please see printed handouts for the most recent updates.

• Gustafsons – YWAM (Youth with a Mission),

Cambodia – Garth and Caroline Gustafson are missionaries with YWAM in Battambang, Cambodia. The work at YWAM Battambang includes Discipleship Training (DTS), School of Biblical Study, HIV/AIDS @ Jeevit’s House, Church Planting as well as evangelism through the Café Eden coffee house and Youth Development Center.

• David, Noni & Family – JAARS/Wycliffe, Indonesia

Due to the sensitivity of where they serve, and because of the digital age, no information will be provided. Please see printed handouts for the most recent updates.

• Johnsons – Blessings of Hope/Navigators, Philippines Lani and Michael Johnson created Blessings of Hope as a means to provide every poor Filipino child and youth with a better future. By working in collaboration with other organizations and partnering with four local churches, Lani and Michael oversee and implement a number of activities including kids’ Bible studies, distribution of useful items, a supplemental feeding program and a balanced, holistic children’s program.

• McIndoos – CRU, Idaho – Nathan and Emily are

missionaries with Cru, formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ, at Boise State University. Cru's mission field is college universities with the purpose of furthering the Great Commission through winning souls to faith in Jesus Christ, helping them grow in their faith, and training them to reach out to others.

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Muriel & Tim Teusink, France

MISSION ORGANIZATION PARTNERS

• Adams Elementary Ministry, Yakima – Adams

Elementary school is Grace’s “adopted” school and family.

Grace sends volunteers to offer help with Adams reading program, Friday Bulldog Hugs, and other programs and school events to support the children and their families.

Adams Elementary is one of three ministry recipients of GCPC’s Bags of Hope donations.

• Campbell Farm, Wapato – Campbell Farm is an

outreach to the Wapato community where 95% of the population lives in poverty. Through their multiple programs, Campbell Farm tries to meet the food, clothing and support the educational needs of their immediate and surrounding community. Campbell Farm is one of three ministry recipients of GCPC’s Bags of Hope donations.

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Yakima –

FCA focuses on serving local communities by equipping, empowering and encouraging people to make a difference by challenging coaches and athletes to impact the world for Christ through the powerful medium of athletics. FCA has opened eight Team Huddles in several local high schools which challenge and encourage team members to live and compete according to biblical principles. FCA also sponsor summer camps for Yakima area athletes.

• Gracia de Cristo Restoration Ministry, Yakima –

The Gracia de Cristo congregation offers a ministry of restoration to families in need in our community; families with low income, the elderly, and to brothers and sisters with disabilities. GdC’s desire is to bring the Love of Jesus into their homes and lives by repairing and painting doors, windows and other places around their homes as well as removing old and broken items and the accumulation of extra material that are no longer in use.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry • Living Waters for the World – Living Waters mission teams empower their partners to provide clean, sustainable water and health education for their communities. This is accomplished by teaching local leaders to build and operate clean water filtration systems globally.

• Love, INC, Yakima – Love In the Name of Christ seeks

to guide families to break out of poverty. By networking churches together, providing trainings and ministry opportunities, Love INC is the body of Christ in action, helping people with needs. Love INC offers a “hand up,” not a handout, helping people become all God created them to be. Love, INC is one of three ministry recipients of GCPC’s Bags of Hope donations.

• Mabel Swan, Yakima – The independent living

apartments provide housing for 150 low-income seniors 62 and older. As our neighbors, they enjoy fellowship activities and occasionally assistance with needs. Mable Swan residents look forward to our summer Lemonade on the Lawn and our annual Thanksgiving meal.

• Madison House, Yakima – Madison House is a safe hub

for youth, ages 5-20. A daughter program of the Yakima Union Gospel Mission (YUGM), Madison House averages over 100 individuals with weekly participation. Each week, over 40 volunteers bring help and the love of Christ to the Madison House community and provide one-onone ministry to kids in need. Madison House Youth Center aims to broaden the horizons of youth by providing help with homework, guidance in personal responsibility, encouragement in character, along with promoting growth and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

• Project Mercy, Yetebon, Ethiopia – Project Mercy

seeks to renew the heart of a nation by stomping out physical and spiritual poverty by the roots. Project Mercy offers hope through education, health, nutrition, and vocation and infrastructure development. This Includes (but not limited to) a poultry program; school meal program; Pre-K through 12th grade education; medical care; skills training; Science University and Midwifery school. Project Project Mercy, Yetebon, Ethiopia Mercy transforms lives through knowledge, better health, sustainable food sources and strengthened character for all people as a living example of the love of Jesus Christ.

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• Sacred Road, White Swan – Sacred Road started out

as a hopeful church plant outreach of the Presbyterian Church of America in 2003, named Hope Fellowship.

Hopelessness and despair are prevalent in this “forgotten” community affected by poverty, substance abuse and unemployment. Since its inception, this hopeful church has grown beyond that simple beginning goal and has evolved to serve the Yakama Nation in the White Swan/ Harrah area. Hope Fellowship has a regular congregation of over 140 people on Sunday mornings and a very active and vibrant youth group on Tuesday evenings. Sacred Road reaches out to its community, which is one of the poorest in our nation in a multitude of ways. This includes providing: transportation to and from events, Food Ministry/Backpack Buddies, Children/ Youth Ministries, Firewood Program, Youth After School Program, discipleship groups, summer and Christmas ministries, economic development programs, as well as a screen printing vocational program.

Sacred Road Ministry • Camp Hope, Yakima – Our mission is to enable people to break the cycle of homelessness. We provide a safe place to stay, counseling, and help obtaining services. Most of all we want our clients to feel loved and respected.

• Trailseekers/Orca Encampment, Yakima – The Trailseekers organization is a Christian outreach to children and youth who are in at-risk situations.

Trailseekers serves elementary kids in after-school programs, teaching them about God and the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Students can continue in Trailseekers through its middle and high school leadership groups where the three “R”s are stressed: Responsibility, Respect and Relationships.

• Union Gospel Mission, Yakima – Yakima’s UGM exists to

provide Christ-centered rescue, recovery and restoration to men, women, and children in need by feeding the body, restoring the mind and reviving the spirit through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

• Whitworth University, Spokane – Support from Grace of Christ Church goes towards student scholarships and grounds maintenance.

• Young Life, Yakima – Through club, one-on-one, and camp, Young Life leaders build relationships with adolescents. They introduce kids to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith. Young Life has clubs with kids from nine high schools and five middle schools throughout the valley.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Women's Ministry and MOPS WOMEN'S MINISTRY 2020

MOPS (MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS)

PRISCILLA SHIRER’S BIBLE STUDY: Women’s Ministry started off the year with a Priscilla Shirer’s Bible Study on Jonah. It was an incredible 7-week study with dinner that brought us a new look into Jonah’s story. In this study she talked about navigating a life interrupted, like Jonah’s. What we didn’t know was life was truly going to be interrupted for all of us! We ended the study with the movie “Overcomer” with our families.

DECIDE TO RISE: Be Strong. Do Your Work. Chase Joy. What a fitting theme for MOPS this year! As mothers in 2020, we have definitely needed to make the conscious choice to Rise above the challenges that have come. We have been called to take care of ourselves physically and emotionally so that we can take care of our families. Many of us are striving to work from home while navigating on-line school or homeschool. But through it all, we actively seek out joy so that we can fight discouragement and fear.

OUTREACH: Priscilla also challenged us to do something for our community and as a group we decided to collect feminine products for a women’s shelter. We were able to donate much needed supplies! The plan was to have a mini weekend retreat to go see Priscilla Shirer in March but unfortunately it was canceled.

The last thing women’s ministry got to do was bless the women of our church for Mother’s Day in May by sending a card with a small paper heart with wildflower seeds. We are excited to see what God had planned for 2021 and can’t wait to be with you all in person soon!

MOPS ONLINE: Although 2020 has been challenging, Grace of Christ MOPS has adapted.

Because of social distancing requirements, we are 100% online through our Facebook page Yakima Grace MOPS 2020–2021.

Virtual meetings are scheduled every few weeks. Prior to a virtual meeting, a video or discussion points are posted. A few days later, we meet on ZOOM to discuss the video, learn to do a craft, and just be with other moms! We look forward to when we can meet in person but enjoy our virtual visits as much as we can!

CONNECT: If you would like to be involved in our virtual MOPS meetings, please send a Facebook request to join Yakima Grace MOPS 2020–2021. If you are interested in helping with MOPS leadership or have additional questions, please contact Jamie Quantrell through Facebook Messenger.

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Camp Ghormley CAMP GHORMLEY 2020 What a year. As I went back and read through 2019’s annual report, I chuckled to myself at how different life was just twelve months ago, how blissfully unaware we were at the massive disruption to our lives, ministry work, and world we were about to undergo. We truly do not know what a day (or year!) will bring.

Praise God that He is not shaken by the difficulties we face.

We can trust in Him as our shelter from the storm. 2020 at Ghormley has been a difficult year, to be sure, with the loss of staff, the loss of most of our business revenue, and most difficult, the loss of our traditional ministry opportunities due to the impact of COVID-19 on the camp industry.

But despite all of that, we have experienced God’s faithfulness and are filled with joy for many reasons, and I’d like to highlight the things that we can give thanks for as we close out 2020.

FINANCIAL PROVISIONS: One of the scariest parts of the impact of COVID has definitely been the loss of financial stability. Ever since it became clear we were going to lose our summer season, each month has been an act of total reliance on God to meet our needs and allow us to keep operating at a minimal level. God has been good in providing for our every need financially speaking, allowing us to stay afloat. We received a PPP loan that helped pay our staff in May and June, and as of this writing (mid-December) we hope to possibility benefit from this again soon. Donor support has been very strong this year, which is the biggest reason why we remain operational at this time. Thank you, our Ghormley family, for your incredible support!

GHORMLEY GOODNESS: They say that desperation is the mother of invention. This certainly was true for us, as we worked to figure out how to bring in at least some revenue and also continue to be able to do meaningful work and serve people. This led us to create Ghormley Goodness, our freshmade to-go meals program, which to date has produced over 900 orders and thousands of meals! Many people have told

us how much this effort has blessed them and allowed them to have meaningful, needed, fellowship with others over a great meal. 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.

PROJECTS: Not having the constant operational stress of day-to-day business activity has allowed more time to focus on construction related projects. Thanks to the tireless work of our Maintenance Director, Eferon Betancourt, as well as the support of many donors and volunteers, we have been able to remodel several bathrooms, rebuild our outdoor Shower Remodel worship stage, and at present we are in the process of completely remodeling Spruce Cabin into a staff home. These are all significant enhancements to our facility and will allow us to better serve our guests and provide appropriate accommodations to our staff in the future.

FUTURE PLANNING: We’ve taken important steps to prepare for the future of Ghormley as we’ve outlined future facility plans and begun the work of fundraising for important projects in the coming years, namely the complete renovation of Evergreen Lodge. As of this writing, we have raised $400,000 out of a $1.2 million-dollar campaign goal, and we look forward to seeing God continue to provide and help us prepare Ghormley for future generations of campers.

While we wait in anticipation for the day when “normal life” will return, we continue to work as unto the Lord, knowing that He is faithful and that we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

God is good all the time, and we look forward to seeing how He will work through the ministry of Camp Ghormley in 2021.

– Joel Whitehead Executive Director, Camp Ghormley

Spruce Cabin Remodel

www.campghormley.com 27

509.672.4311

facebook.com/campghormley

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