Grace Alive August 2017

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church A FA M I LY F O R O U R CO M M U N I T Y

Iglesia Presbiteriana Gracia de Cristo: Una Familia Para Nuestra Comunidad

August 2017 VOL 93

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Lead Pastor — Pastor Jim Marian

Church In Motion: Moving Forward this Fall Jesus was always moving forward in His ministry. The teachings, the miracles, the healings and ultimately His death and resurrection… all pointed people to the new thing God was doing – to save all who would trust in Jesus as Savior. The Disciples and the Apostle Paul kept moving the mission forward as the Holy Spirit led them to establish the Christian faith amongst the Jews in Israel and to non-Jews in other parts of the world.

OUR MISSION Our mission at Grace of Christ hasn’t changed since the inception of our church – "to reach our community for Christ and to help make disciples who love and serve others" – Matthew 28:1820. I don’t have the space to list all the ways our church has faithfully “moved the Gospel forward” in our community over the years, but our work is not done.

I believe there are still hundreds, even thousands, God has called us to reach in the greater Yakima Valley. To do this, we will continue to teach God’s Word faithfully, worship passionately, serve our neighbors with joy and share our faith with urgency.

And I’m excited about some of the ways we are moving forward in our church to reach others with the love of Jesus.

We are making some much needed updates to our church facility in paint, carpet and furniture. These changes will help improve our “first impression” with those who visit us for the first time.

We are planning to improve our Children’s Ministry to give our kids a new area for fun, worship and small groups. We are planning to update our Chapel with a new look and modern technology. This will provide a worship facility for our middle school and high school students, as well as a new “video venue” worship service for the church at 10:45 with live worship and the message on video.

BLESSINGS contemporary worship service Live, contemporary worship music at a later time: 10:45

Children’s classes for families who wish to attend the service It provides a Contemporary Service for Sunday School Teachers It will provide a smaller, more intimate feel

New atmosphere with modern lighting and staging Variety of seating options incorporating chairs, tables and stools Feel free to bring your fancy coffee drinks

It gives kids, students & adult growth groups in 9:00am classes the opportunity to attend a Contemporary Worship Service Some have said, "I like the changes to help grow our children’s and student ministries, but do we really need another worship service?" The list above includes just a few of the many ways that adding a Contemporary Worship Service can bless our existing Grace of Christ family and welcome new worshipers!

I have confidence that our church will always be committed to the message and mission of reaching our community for Christ.

My hope is that we would be open to new methods that might help our ministries be as effective as possible.

NEW SERVICE LAUNCH TEAM NEEDED We are looking for people to help get this service up and running!

First, we will need people to just commit to attending the service.

Second, we will need some folks who will serve – praying for the service, setting up chairs, greeters, musicians, help with sound and lighting, etc…

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE? Attend an "Information Gathering" July 30, August 6, or August 13.

10:25-10:35am (between services) In the Front of the Sanctuary Grace and Peace, Jim Marian, Lead Pastor

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Associate Pastor of Congregational Care & Church Administration — Pastor Cindy Shively

Growth Groups Gaining Momentum!

After a successful “pre-launch” of Growth Groups this past May, we are gearing up for the next step… more groups, more leaders, and more opportunities to connect with one another and grow together as followers of Jesus.

WHAT ARE GROWTH GROUPS? Groups of approximately 3-12 people, meeting regularly, to grow spiritually through building meaningful Christian relationships and studying God’s word together.

A Growth Group takes our good intentions and puts them on the calendar!

SHARING what is happening in our lives. “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together…” (Hebrews 10:24-25) STUDYING scripture to learn how to live out our faith in everyday life through “…teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.” (Colossians 1:28) SUPPORTING each other in practical ways, including prayer, encouragement, listening, challenging one another, and meeting needs.

SERVING together in a quarterly service activity as a group.

Small groups have long been a vital part of our Grace of Christ Community. In many ways Growth Groups are the same – providing opportunities for significant, authentic relationships, personal study of God’s Word, support and caring for one another, and serving together.

How are Growth Groups different? We are encouraging groups to use the Sermon-based study questions. This helps people go deeper in their understanding and application of the sermon. It doesn’t require much outside study. It makes it easier for people to be involved no matter where they are in their spiritual growth, and provides easy entry. Some groups may choose other study materials from time to time.

Groups also run for 10-week segments. While many people may stay together for years, it allows easy access for new people or a gracious exit if a particular group isn’t a good fit, or other life changes necessitate a break from your group. Groups can meet in homes, at the office, in a coffee shop, at the church building, or a variety of other locations. Our hope and intention is that everyone in our church family and beyond would have the opportunity to be a part of a group.

WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS? 1. We are gathering information on who is already part of group and who is not. Thank you for your help with this (bulletin inserts, email requests, etc.).

2. If you are part of a group and could invite others to join you, please let us know.

3. If you or someone from your group feels a nudge from the Lord to consider leading, co-leading, or hosting a group, please let us know. We will have a Growth Group Leader/Host Training event on Wednesday, September 6, 5:30-8:30 pm at the church (includes dinner). If you are a current Small Group Leader, and want to understand the Growth Group Ministry, you are welcome to attend.

4. Sign up for a Growth Group – our next quarter starts Sunday, September 17.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE? Call the church 248-7940, or email jana.alderman@yakimagrace.com Growing together with you, Pastor Cindy Shively 3

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Rejuvenation Design Team REJUVENATION DESIGN TEAM UPDATE As a church family, we have been blessed with an architecturally beautiful building, timeless in many ways.

It has been 30 years since we’ve done anything other than maintain the building. This spring, Session decided it’s time to rejuvenate it—making it more relevant for future ministry as well as inviting for those who haven’t grown up in a church. We want our meeting place to reflect who we are – a group of disciples active in joining God in what He’s up to today and wants to do in the future.

To get the updates started, we have partnered with The Foundation. The Foundation has seeded the current updates with a contribution to the projects of $250,000.

Yes, $250,000 is a lot of money! Yet, we have a BIG church building and even bigger vision.

PREPARE for the future. SERVE the present.

HONOR the past.

PRIORITIES One area of priority that has been identified by the Session is CHILDREN. This will begin by updating the second floor to be so child-friendly that our kids won’t want to leave when Sunday Kidzone is over! And not only child-friendly, but conducive to making the good news of Jesus Christ relevant and understandable to kids.

Another priority is creating a place for our MID-HIGH AND SENIOR HIGH STUDENTS to worship. We’ve known it as the Chapel for years. It may have a new name, but will still be a place for God to meet His people in dynamic ways. It will also be a great venue for mid-week worship services, 4

speakers, and mid-size gatherings, as well as a late morning contemporary worship service on Sundays. This will be unlike any other setting in our building with sound, lighting, and atmosphere that will appeal to all generations.

UPDATES HAVE BEGUN You will notice right away that new paint is being applied to the whole first floor and the Garden Room floor is being updated with a concrete, easy-care, slip-resistant finish. The

new floor will provide a huge savings in the maintenance budget each year, heels won’t get stuck in the grooves, and we won’t see chipped paint. Bulletin boards are being taken down and will be replaced with electronic screens for easy updating and visual conformity. These are just a few of the changes you will see. Gary Davis, a contractor and church member, will be our project manager. He will coordinate and oversee all aspects of the rejuvenation.

PROJECT PARTNERS NEEDED We are so blessed to be able to provide childcare on Sundays as well as for midweek activities, but our facilities are dated and worn-looking. Funding for this is not in the current rejuvenation budget, but timing is critical. Summer is our downtime, and we would love to be able to replace carpet and repaint the areas. When September rolls around, it will be difficult to have construction going on.

We are looking for people who would be interested in partnering with us to complete these projects before the end of summer. Would you be able to financially contribute to the full or partial amount for these plans (or to wherever funds are most needed)?

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Rejuvination Design Team Carpet for Childcare............................................................ $9,063.91 Carpet for Library................................................................. $2,419.35 Carpet for Adult Ed Room .................................................. $3,966.62 Reupholstering Furniture for Main Floor Areas............ $6,000.00 Restroom Updating............................................................. $5,500.00 Accessories and Wall Décor............................................... $3,000.00 Main Sanctuary Entrance Flooring.................................. $2,390.00

Another way to contribute to the plans is with your talents. Volunteers are needed to help with removing carpet and haul it off, to help restore woodwork, to refinish chairs and possibly help with recovering backs and seats, etc.

Please call Linda Mathews at

509-388-5527

if you have skills, muscles, or a willingness to help!

We are the body of Christ for a reason. God has blessed us, and together, we have everything needed to rejuvenate our church facility. This is the first phase of the update project, so continue to ask the Lord how you are to help out today as well as in the future.

Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.

– Proverbs 11:25 If you are able to donate financially to the rejuvenation, please send a check, make an online donation, or email Tammy Nunley: Tammy.Nunley@YakimaGrace.com and let her know how you are able to help out financially.

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She will answer questions and give you more details regarding any financial gifts.

We’ve been given a great legacy. Now it’s time to continue the work of all those who have gone before us.

PREPARE for the future. SERVE the present.

HONOR the past.

Your Rejuvenation Design Team, Kathy Myers, Linda Mathews, Jennifer Foster, Mark Baldwin, Jeff Gray, Pastor Jim Marian, and Tammy Nunley

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Prayer Ministry

The Grace of Christ Prayer Ministry Team believes in the power of testimonies. When we hear others say, “God is answering prayer! This is what He did…” it not only builds faith, but it honors God. Today, we are bringing you a special testimony of answered prayer. This is the story of how our Prayer Room came to be.

Thank you to Sharon Trick for telling this story.

Prayer ministry has always been strong in our church.

The prayer team wanted a prayer room for as long as I can remember. However, they couldn’t find a location. We prayed and played around with different ideas for years, but nothing worked.

There are many different ways of hearing from the Lord.

This one is called “doors opening.” In 2012, things started to happen. One day, someone on the prayer team was sitting in the Garden Room and said, “What if they made that window into a doorway?”

The place indicated would go into what used to be Steve Barker’s office. Steve had retired and the room was mostly being used for storage. So, I asked Pastor Jack what he thought of that idea. He immediately said he thought it was worth looking into. As Pastor Jack and I were talking, Joe Park (who happens to be a contractor) walked by and Pastor Jack asked Joe what he thought. Joe agreed – this was doable. All of a sudden, a prayer room was in motion.

After that, someone asked Maurice to see if there were any doors in the church. Maurice found he had only one from the original building. So, Joe Park proceeded to make a doorway for that original door.

The furniture and artwork in the prayer room was donated from different people and places within a few days. All of the pieces look like they belong together. It was pretty easy.

Only God could have done that.

Finally, we thought the room needed some kind of signage.

Around this time, Pastor Jack’s dear friend lost her life and he went to the East coast for her funeral. While there, Jack came across a store sign done in stained glass. He thought of the new prayer room and knew that was the perfect style for the sign. I knew a woman who worked with stained glass. She came up with a design that matched Pastor Jack’s vision. That’s how we came to have a stained glass window instead of a sign.

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All of this happened really fast. The doors opened for each of those things. It was almost as if, as soon as we thought of it, it was done.

For 100 years, people who attended our church wanted a prayer room. Psalm 27:14 says, “Wait upon the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait upon the Lord.” We know that God’s timing is not our timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We just kept praying.

– Sharon Trick

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

CITIZENSHIP CLASSES

CLASES DE CIUDADANÍA

Our partnership with La Casa Hogar and Adams Elementary School continues. Approximately 40 people completed the first round of classes in early June. The summer quarter, which has 25 participants, will be completed on September 6. We are now looking forward to the fall quarter. The classes meet on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00.

If interested in volunteering for this very valuable ministry, please call Jake Kupp at 961-5070.

Nuestra asociación con La Casa Hogar y la Escuela Primaria Adams continúa. Aproximadamente 40 estudiantes completaron la primera ronda de clases a principios del mes de junio. El trimestre de verano, que tiene 25 participantes, se completará el 6 de septiembre. Ahora estamos mirando hacia adelante para el trimestre de otoño. Las clases se imparten los lunes y miércoles por la noche de 6:00 a 8:00. Si usted está interesado en ser voluntario para este ministerio tan valioso, por favor comuníquese con Jake Kupp al 509- 961-5070.

OUTREACH CAMP Within hours of finishing their last day of school on June 16th, 67 campers boarded a bus and vans to head up into the mountains to Ghormley Meadow to spend the weekend with God. With bright orange t-shirts boldly proclaiming For God So God Loves Me on the front and John 3:16 spelled out on the back in the form of a cross, campers listened attentively to John Stolzenbach teach them four times about God’s love for them, what faith and trusting in God means, the importance of being forgiven (complete with burning their sins at the campfire), and finally learning four things needed to keep their relationship with God alive and growing: Prayer - The Bible - Being in relationship with other believers Worship.

There were 28 counselors made up of adults and teens who volunteered to help share the Good News of Jesus Christ. In a camp survey, 35 campers said they made a commitment to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior, and 20 said they recommitted their lives to Him. We feel by limiting participation to just 3rd, 4th and 5th grades from Adams, our partnership school, and with the school counselors helping recruit, we are better able to serve as we feel God intends. We are 7

CAMPAMENTO DE EXTENSIÓN

A pocas horas de terminar su último día de escuela el 16 de junio, 67 campistas subieron a un autobús y a las camionetas para dirigirse a las montañas de Ghormley Meadow para pasar el fin de semana con Dios. Con las camisetas anaranjadas brillantes proclamando “Porque Dios Me Ama Tanto” en el frente y la escritura que se encuentra en el libro de Juan 3:16 en la parte de atrás en la forma de una cruz, los campistas escucharon atentamente a John Stolzenbach enseñarles cuatro veces acerca del amor de Dios para ellos, lo que la fe y la confianza en Dios significa, la importancia de ser perdonado (completando con la quemada de sus pecados en la fogata) y, finalmente, aprendiendo cuatro cosas necesarias para mantener viva y aumentando su relación con Dios: Haciendo Oración – Leyendo La Biblia - Estar en relación con otros Creyentes - Adoración.

Había 28 consejeros compuestos de adultos y adolescentes que voluntariamente ayudaron a compartir las Buenas Nuevas de Jesucristo. En una encuesta en el campamento

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English impacting one child, one family at a time as we build on a more ongoing relationship year-round over a three year period. Watch for announcements after the first of the year.

We’d love you to join us in the spring to help out with Outreach Camp, 2018.

READING PROGRAM AT ADAMS Grace of Christ / Gracia de Cristo has a community ministry that lovingly supports Adams Elementary School, with reading tutoring being an integral aspect of this outreach for first and second graders. We now have 24, faithful volunteers who shared themselves with kids this past school year.

We are praying for 30 to volunteer for this fall. Pray about possibly being part of this ministry!

En Español 35 campistas dijeron que se comprometieron a aceptar a Jesucristo como su Salvador, y 20 dijeron que volvieron a comprometer su vida con Él. Sentimos que limitando la participación a los estudiantes de 3er, 4to y 5to grados en Adams, nuestra asociación con la escuela, y con los consejeros de la escuela ayudando con la registración, seremos más capaces de servir a Dios como es Su intención, logrando transformar de una forma más positiva la vida de un niño, y la de una familia a la vez conforme vamos construyendo una relación más constante cada año durante un período de tres años. Esté atento a los anuncios después de comenzar el año escolar. Nos encantaría que se unieran a nosotros en la primavera para ayudarnos con los proyectos para el Campamento del año 2018.

PROGRAMA DE LECTURA EN ADAMS Grace of Christ / Gracia de Cristo tiene un ministerio comunitario que amorosamente apoya a la Escuela Primaria Adams, siendo la tutoría de lectura un aspecto integral de este alcance para los estudiantes de primero y segundo grado. Ahora tenemos 24, voluntarios fieles que compartieron su tiempo con los niños todo el año escolar que acaba de terminar. Estamos orando por 30 voluntarios para este otoño. ¡Le pedimos que por favor oren por la posibilidad de ser parte de este ministerio tan importante y valioso!

HERE ARE SOME PARTICULARS • BE A READING TUTOR! Tutor an Adams first grader from 12:00 to 12:30, and a second grader from 12:30 to 1:00.

• JUST AN HOUR OF YOUR DAY – once a week, twice a week, once a month, twice a month! You decide!

• UNABLE TO TUTOR? Someone will temporarily take your place.

• ADAMS IS A "CHILD-FRIENDLY" SCHOOL – where students know they are valued. This will be an hour of your day well spent!

• FOR MORE DETAILS – please call the church office.

As you bless the children, you will be blessed!

Rosalie DuBrau 8

ESTOS SON ALGUNOS DETALLES • TUTOR, EN LECTURA, un estudiante de primero grado de Adams de 12:00 a 12:30, y un estudiante de segundo grado de 12:30 a 1:00.

• ¡SÓLO UNA HORA DE SU DÍA – una vez por semana, dos veces por semana, una vez al mes, dos veces al mes! ¡Tú decides!

• ! NO PUEDE SER TUTOR! Alguien tomará temporalmente su lugar.

• ADAMS ES UNA ESCUELA "AMIGABLE CON LOS NIÑOS" – donde los estudiantes saben que son valorados. ¡Esta será una hora de su día bien utilizada!

• PARA MÁS DETALLES – llame a la oficina de la iglesia. ¡Conforme bendice a los niños, usted será bendecido!

Rosalie DuBrau

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English WOMEN’S RETREAT FOLLOW UP

En Español EL RETIRO DE LAS MUJERES CONTINUA En el pasado mes de Marzo, alrededor de 100 mujeres de Gracia de Cristo y Grace of Christ se reunieron durante un fin de semana de tres días en el Lago Chelan. Las mujeres experimentaron la unidad que trajo gozo y un deseo de continuar estando juntas en comunidad. Estamos llamando a esta reunión Grace of Christ y Gracia de Cristo Together / Juntos.

Last March, around 100 women from Gracia de Cristo and Grace of Christ came together during a three-day week end at Lake Chelan. Women experienced unity that brought joy and a desire to continue being in community together. We are calling this gathering Grace of Christ y Gracia de Cristo Together/Juntos.

On the first Wednesday of July, over 30 women gathered in the Garden Room for the first gathering to eat and fellowship together. Carla Kupp and Aurora Rule shared life stories, women responded by sharing theirs, and the evening ended with prayer.

We will be gathering every month and invite you to join us every first Wednesday. Translation is provided to bridge the language barrier and God provides a bridge that brings us together.

YOU ARE INVITED to come to the Garden Room on

Wednesday, August 2, 5:00-7:00. Bring food or don’t bring food. Just come! We plan to tell stories, hear the Word, share testimonies, and pray with one another.

God bless you all, Gracia de Cristo Team (Alex Rule, Jake Kupp, Rich Millet and John Stolzenbach)

Mothers of Preschoolers Grace of Christ Mothers of Preschoolers, known as MOPS is excited to kick off our 2017-2018 season on September 15. MOPS is a community where we encourage moms to realize their potential as mothers, women and leaders in relationship with Jesus.

All women with children 0-kindergarten are invited to enjoy a light breakfast, coffee and conversation while we explore our theme for this year "Free Indeed." We will learn to let love be the loudest voice, be gutsy, and go first.

Our group meets the 1st and 3rd Friday's of each month (with some exceptions) from 9:30-11:30, September-May. Childcare is provided for children 3 months-homeschool.

We can't wait to see you!

Megan Nelson 9

El primer miércoles de julio, más de 30 mujeres se reunieron en la Sala del Jardín (Garden Room) para la primera reunión para comer y tener un compañerismo juntas. Carla Kupp y Aurora Rule compartieron historias de sus vidas, las demás mujeres respondieron compartiendo las suyas, y la tarde terminó con oración. Nos reuniremos una vez cada mes y los invitamos a unirse con nosotros el primer miércoles. La traducción se proporciona como un puente para así eliminar la barrera del lenguaje y sabemos que Dios provee un puente que nos trae a todos juntos.

USTED ESTÁ INVITADA a

venir a la sala del jardín (Garden Room) el miércoles, 2 de agosto de 5:00-7:00 de la tarde. Traiga o no traiga comida. ¡Solo venga y acompáñenos! Planeamos contar historias, oír la Palabra de Dios, compartir testimonios, y orar unas con otras.

Dios los bendiga a todos siempre, El equipo de Gracia de Cristo (Alex Rule, Jake Kupp, Rich Millet y John Stolzenbach)

Welcome Back Jana!

If you have been around the church at all since mid-May, in the midst of other comings and goings, you are probably well aware that Jana Alderman is back on staff, serving as our Executive Assistant. Her responsibilities include serving the Pastors, working with Session and Deacons, helping administrate the Growth Group Ministries, managing Support Staff, and many other responsibilities.

She has a deep love for the Lord and our Grace of Christ family.

We are so grateful to have her here, and know you will be, too.

Her hours are Monday – Thursday, 8:30 – 5:00. Thanks for your caring and support of Jana during this time.

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Student Ministry DEAR CHURCH FAMILY, Wow! Can you believe it has been a year? It has been such a BLESSING to work with the youth this past year. I have seen God work in this year of transition and I am amazed at what He has done! He has DOUBLED the number of youth who come on Sunday and Wednesday! Thank you to all the volunteers who have stepped up and heard God’s call to serve in this ministry!

SUMMER FUN! Summer has been full of fun activities! We’ve gotten to swim, fellowship together through food, a devotional and prayer on Wednesday nights! Thank you to the Benson’s, Licht’s and Gustafson’s for sharing your pool with us! We went Pokémon Go hunting! We had two successful car washes to fundraise money for camp.

We made over $1000!

Thank you for your generosity! Went to Mid-high Camp and Water Ski Camp at Ghormley. We had a great day going to Boulder Cave too!

There were 30 of us youth & adults who went on the hike!

Pool Parties 2017

Hiking Trip 2017

Boulder Cave 2017 10

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Student Ministry REFUEL Our Sunday reFUEL time has changed, we now meet during the 9 o’clock service in the downstairs youth room. We have a little bit of free time to eat, play games, hang out and wake up a bit more. Then we worship together, which is led by one of our high school students, Jahzeel who sings and plays guitar. Along with her, Adrian plays the jimbay drums, Jacob plays the piano and Joshua plays the violin. For the summer, we are using a curriculum called “Sticky Faith Every Day” which is designed to help us notice God more.

SERVING AT VBS AND LOVE INC. We’ve volunteered at VBS, helping elementary age kids learn that we are “Created by God, Built for a Purpose!” We served Yakima at Love Inc. by counting inventory of food, then sorting and putting the food away.

Thank you all for your prayers for youth ministries! I ask that you continue to pray for this ministry. Pray for the youth, the volunteers and how God may want you to support this ministry! Thank you for support and prayers!

With Christ’s Love, Amae Merrill

Refuel Worship 2017

STUDENT MINISTRIES DIRECTOR After a thorough search, and looking at a number of potential candidates, the Student Ministries Director Search team is delighted to welcome Thomas Sudbury to this vital ministry position!

Thomas and his wife Jennifer are long-time members at Grace of Christ. They, along with their children Eli and Noah, are returning to Grace of Christ, after several years of ministering at Crossroads Community Church in Moxee. Thomas has a strong passion for the Lord, and lots of energy and excitement for reaching and discipling students, and for equipping volunteers. He brings a wealth of experience including a variety of ministries over the past 18 years, seven years as an educator, and is currently working on a Masters of Ministry at the Pacific Evangelical School of Ministry (through George Fox University).

We are thrilled that the Lord has moved on their hearts to serve our Grace of Christ Family in this capacity! Thank you for your support and prayers during this time of leadership transition.

Volunteering with Love Inc. 2017

Car Wash Fundraiser 2017 11

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Don’t wait to register! We still have some spaces available in our 3s and 4s program!

Call Rhonda at 248-7940 for more information!

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Are you able to help the preschool? We need scholarship donations and Bible fund donations!

We have many families who come to us that cannot afford the extra money to send their child to preschool and you can help make a difference for a family! Thank you!

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www.yakimapreschool.com 9 S. 8th Ave, Yakima, WA 98902

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Call: (509) 248-7940 Rhonda @YakimaGrace.com

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Children’s Ministry — Melissa Gray

WOW GOD!

KidZone

What an amazing week at VBS this summer! Thank you so much to each volunteer who gave their time and talents at VBS and shared the love of Jesus with each child who attended. Mark your calendars for next summer’s Shipwrecked VBS June 25-29!

Come join the fun in KidZone this summer! Dropoff begins at 8:45 am with lots of games and fun for preschool-Kinder in room 103, and 1st-5th grade in the Chapel. Summer check-in locations can be found in room 103, and in the library located outside the Elementary Chapel. Class will run until 10:15 each Sunday, and students will be picked up from the same location they were dropped off. This summer we are wrapping up our series on the life of Jesus. Come dig-in to the fun!

Starting in September we will begin a fresh series as we Dig-In to the Bible in One Year! Digging into the Bible in One Year takes kids on a whirlwind journey from Genesis to Revelation. Kids experience a relationship with God through the eyes of ordinary Bible people, and will discover that they’re a lot like the people God has always loved and worked through.

If you are waiting for a sign from God to tell you how you can use your time to make a real difference in the world, this is your sign Come Volunteer in KidZone this Fall!

We have exciting plans for our Fall Program and are looking for NEW faces in our KidZone classrooms this year! Contact Melissa Gray Melissa.gray@yakimagrace. com, 248-7940 x110

KidZone August Memory Verse: And be sure of this; I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

Matthew 28:20

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Missions Happy 80th Anniversary to the Yakima Union Gospel Mission!

The Union Gospel Mission has been taking care of spiritual and physical needs of those experiencing difficult times for many years. It has grown from a place to get a hot meal, prayer and a bed to a multifaceted ministry. Grace of Christ has been involved since its beginning offering prayer, money and leadership.

emotional and social well-being is discussed. It helps them understand why their lives are in turmoil and then helps them restructure thier lives. It includes work therapy and vocational training.

What are some ways you can help UGM fulfill their mission?

They run a recycling and distribution center that provides work opportunities and raises funds. Cardboard, paper products, some electronics, selected metals, aluminum cans and clothing are accepted and processed.

The Olde Lighthouse Shoppe Medical and Dental Facility In March, a new larger state of the art medical and dental facility was opened. The center is open Monday thru Friday.

About 14,000 patients will be treated this year. Over 200 volunteers help the staff treat those in need. The dental center also depends on many volunteers to provide often neglected but essential dental needs. The clinic charges on a sliding scale. Through generous contributions, this facility has been completely paid off!

The Olde Lighthouse Shoppe located on S. Front St is a thrift store and antique shop filled with gently used and specialty items. It provides work experiences for New Life Program members and job training agencies in order to develop marketable job skills. Vouchers are provided to low income families. The Shoppe has a little bit of everything. The next time you go shopping, stop in and browse around. You might find something special and the money you spend is used for a good purpose.

New Hope Catering Next time you are planning an event that requires food, remember New Hope Catering. They do custom lunch boxes, business lunches, wedding celebrations, memorial services, graduation parties, anniversary receptions, summer BBQs, business openings and birthday parties. Their menu options are on the Union Gospel Mission web site.

This is not a complete list of all thing the Mission does. If you would like to know more, visit the mission for a tour or go to their web site.

New Life Program New Life Program is an in depth, residential, yearlong program. It is designed to help men and women understand the root causes of their homelessness and addiction. A person’s physical, mental, spiritual, 14

Mission Ministry dedicates this article to Mike Nixon. Mike was a long time member of the MMT. We appreciated and relied on his leadership, wisdom and example. He had a “heart for missions.” The Union Gospel Mission was one he especially cared about. We encourage you to follow Mike's example and become involved sharing the love of Christ to the world.

– Lin Jones

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Missions Mission Outreach Ministry Team

Bags of Hope for Students of Adams Elementary Adams is a part of the Mission Outreach Ministry Team here at Grace of Christ. Every year Gracia de Cristo/ Grace of Christ supports the students of Adams Elementary school by providing school supplies and personal care items to start a new year with the resources they need. Bags of Hope and Summer Outreach Camp are a fundamental part of the healthy growth that these students need, and are truly a blessing for the students who come from lower income families who find it difficult to afford certain necessities. It is very important for these kids to experience God’s love early on in order to develop a kind heart and mindset towards God. Donations for Bags of Hope begin August 6, and final collections will be made on August 20. Thank you for your love towards the students and families at Adams! * See back cover for shopping list

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Ministry of Restoration This is a ministry to help the elderly, handicapped, and low-income families by helping with minor repairs and tasks they cannot do on their own. Recently, several came together with Pastor Alex to help a woman in need whose house had been almost destroyed during the winter. Her roof collapsed from the weight of the snow and lived in just a portion of her house, and needed help in packing up all her belongings so she could move. She was so appreciative. Please call Pastor Alex either for assistance or to volunteer. 509-248-7940 X 125 Sincerely, Missions Team

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

WORSHIP MINISTRY TEAM

Exalting Our All Powerful God Worship When someone says, “worship”, what is the first thing that pops into your head? Is it dancing, singing, or playing an instrument? How about something less musical like drawing, painting, or sculpting? Everyone has a different view on what worship means to them, but in the end, it is God who gets to enjoy all of the precious gifts and talents He has given to us. All of the acts of worship to God listed above, along with many others, are the least we could do to worship and honor Him. After all, He is the one who gave us the ability to do all of these things!

What Counts as Worship to God? There are many ways that someone can worship our Lord and Savior. Praying, reading the Bible, or discussing God’s Word in a study group are just a few ways that we can

learn how to worship Him. For some, it may be singing aloud during the worship service, following along with the choir, or even keeping your eyes closed and hands raised towards the heavens admiring His presence. For others, it may be being able to play or create a song on a guitar that shows how thankful you are that God has given you another day to be alive. Whatever the case may be, your gifts bring pleasure to Jesus and He loves when you take a moment out of your busy day to dedicate yourself to Him. Your heart, soul, and mind should be devoted to Him as you worship, as God can use worship as a way of communicating to you.

Where Can I Worship Jesus?

You can worship God anytime, anywhere! God is always with you and loves to be worshiped by His creation.

You can worship at home in your kitchen while preparing a meal, in your car on your way to work, or in the privacy of your own bedroom. A great place to worship is also during service in God’s very own house. There is a service at 9:00 am, another at 11:00 am, and even a service in Spanish at 1:00 pm here at Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church. I invite you to keep coming in order to grow in your relationship with Jesus and have a greater connection with the Lord. God loves it when we worship Him and give our hearts to Jesus. I encourage you to even take a minute right now out of your time to thank the Lord for all He has blessed you with. May God continue to provide you with all that you need and even give you in abundance, so that you may be a blessing for others.

– Adrian Rule

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality

Christian Hospitality

Serving at Grace of Christ

One pastor has defined Christian hospitality as “taking the initiative to welcome others and invite others to share in our community life.” (Chris Walker, Welcoming Church Ministries) In Romans 15:7 we are exhorted to "welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." Jesus said, "by this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35)

Every warm smile, convivial greeting, friendly hand of assistance or word of help extends hospitality. First impressions often make lasting impressions and we are so thankful that many of you have stepped up to be the welcoming face of Christ and a valuable part of the ministry of hospitality. Hospitality encompasses such a diverse opportunity for serving others that there is always a place for additional people to join in the fun! If you have not experienced the opportunity to serve, would you consider being involved a few times a year or possibly on a regular basis?

First Impressions So what is the first impression as our congregation members and visitors come onto our property and walk through the doors? Welcoming parking attendants and greeters? Helpful assistance from Connection Center volunteers? Ushers to aid with elderly when dropped off at the pull-through and to welcome all into the sanctuary for worship? Inviting trays of cookies and drinks for refreshment after the service? Opportunities to become better acquainted with church family through celebrations and fellowship events?

May the first impressions we give do all that and more!

Dare we say oozing with Christ’s love for people, our church, and our community? That may be a little exaggerated but you get the idea! Yes, for the glory of God, let us welcome one another as Christ has welcomed each of us into His family.

Hospitality Dinner/ Informational Meeting If you are currently serving in an area mentioned above, or as of yet haven’t had the opportunity but are interested in occasionally extending some hospitality to others as a way to serve, know that we are holding a Hospitality-First Impression informational meeting on Monday, August 28th in the Garden room. It is our delight to practice a bit of hospitality by serving you dinner at 6:00 prior to the meeting. Please RSVP at the Connection Center on Sunday or in the church office during the week.

Save the Date:

Hospitality Dinner & Informational Meeting Monday, August 28, 6-8 PM | Garden Room

North Lawn Bring Blankets & Lawn Chairs!

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church 9 South 8th Ave Yakima, WA 98902 (509) 248-7940

OUR CORE VALUES Glorifying God With Our Best Pioneering and Ongoing Outreach Engaging and Nurturing Relationships Being A Cornerstone in the Community Equipping People for Ministry Through Biblical Foundation and Service

August Calendar of Events

Tue, Aug 1

Youth Serve at Camp Hope

4:00pm

Meet at church

Gr 6-12

Tue, Aug 1

Worship Ministry Team Meeting

5:30pm

Adult Ed Room

Committee

Wed, Aug 2

Gracia y Grace Juntos | Potluck & Prayer

5:00pm

Garden Room

Women

Wed, Aug 2

Family Bbq and Movie Night

7:00pm

North Lawn / Gym

Everyone

Thur, Aug 3

Youth Pokeman Go

6:00pm

Larson Park

Gr 6-12

Sat, Aug 5

Ghormley End of Summer Staff Dinner

5:00pm

Gym

Ghormley Staff

Sun, Aug 6

Communion Sunday

Sanctuary

Everyone

Sun, Aug 6

Prayer & Praise with Gracia de Cristo

6:00pm

Chapel

Everyone

Mon, Aug 7

Discipleship Ministry Team Meeting

5:30pm

Offsite

Committee

Tue, Aug 8

Foundation Board

7:00am

Library

Committee

Tue, Aug 8

Mission Ministry Team Meeting

4:00pm

Adult Ed Room

Committee

Wed, Aug 9

Youth Swim Night

5:00pm

Benson's

Gr 6-12

Wed, Aug 16

Youth Swim Night

5:00pm

Gustafson's

Gr 6-12

Thur, Aug 17

CPR Training (RSVP to Rhonda Cardona x 119)

9:00am

Garden Room

Staff/Ushers/Open

Sun, Aug 20

ELZ Lunch Meeting

Lounge

ELZ Staff

Tue, Aug 22

Session Meeting (no dinner)

6:00pm

Adult Ed Room

Elders

Wed, Aug 23

Youth Water Day

5:00pm

Church North Lawn

Gr 6-12

Sat, Aug 26

Prayer Shawl Ministry

1:00pm

Garden Room

Knitters

Mon, Aug 28

Hospitality Information Dinner

5:30pm

Garden Room

Everyone

Tue, Aug 29

Staff Birthday Lunch

Lounge

All Staff

Wed, Aug 30

6:00pm

Sanc/GR/Class Rms

Preschool Families

6:00pm

Chapel

Everyone

All Day

Entire Church

Everyone

Preschool Parent Orientation

Sun, Sep 3 Prayer and Praise with Gracia de Cristo

12:30pm

12:00pm

Mon, Sept 4

Tue, Sep 5

Preschool Starts | 3's & PK

Mon, Sep 6

Growth Group Leader Training

5:30pm

Lounge

Wed, Sept 6

Preschool Starts | 4's

9:00am

Preschool Classrooms Preschool Families

Mon, Sep 6

Gracia y Grace Juntos | Potluck & Prayer

5:00pm

Garden Room

Women

Sun, Sept 10

All Morning

Garden Room

Everyone

Chapel

Everyone

Sun, Sept 17

Labor Day | Church Closed

All Morning

MOPS Bake Sale Worship in Chapel (See page 2)

9:30 / 9:00am

10:45am

Preschool Classrooms Preschool Families Everyone

Grace Alive is available in a PDF format on the church web page www.YakimaGrace.com. For inquiries, submissions, omissions, and corrections, contact Ericka in the church office 248-7940 x 100. ericka.clark@yakimagrace.com 18

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Weekday Events MON

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) All Staff Check-In Meeting ESL Class Overeater’s Anonymous Al-Anon Divorce Care

WED

Youth Group - Mid High & Senior High Gracia de Cristo Music Rehearsal

THUR

SOZO Prayer

FRI

SOZO Prayer

10:00 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 5:15 pm 6:30 pm

Adult Ed DF Lounge Mid Hi Room Adult Ed Adult Ed Lounge

Everyone All Staff

5:30 - 8:30 pm 6:00- 8:00 pm

Youth and Mid Hi Rms Sanctuary

6th-12th grades

5:45 - 9:15 pm

Prayer Room

SOZO Team

9:00 -11:30 am

Prayer Room

SOZO Team

Sanctuary Sanctuary Sanctuary Adult Ed Lounge Chapel Youth Rm & Gym

Everyone Everyone Everyone Adults Adults 3yrs thru 5th gr Gr 6-12

Everyone Everyone Everyone

Sunday Services and Events

SUN

Worship - Led by Contemporary Worship Team Worship - Led by Temple Choir & Organ Worship - Gracia de Cristo (In Spanish) Going Deeper: Zechariah Golden Circle KidZone Youth reFUEL

9:00 am 11:00 am 1:00 pm 9:30 am 10:15 am 9:00 am 9:00 am

Announcements FAMILY BBQ & MOVIE NIGHT

HOSPITALITY MINISTRY

Looking for free entertainment this summer? You are invited to an informal BBQ Dinner and Movie Night held on the North Lawn, Wednesday, August 2, from 7:00 - 10:00 pm!

Bring blankets and lawn chairs.

Interested in joining the Hospitality Ministry? A Hospitality Dinner and Information Night will be held on Monday, August 28, at 6:00 pm. Come join us!

WOMEN'S POTLUCK Attention Ladies! The women of Grace of Christ & Gracia de Cristo come together in the Garden Room on the first Wednesday of each month. The next potluck is on Wednesday, August 2, 5:00-7:00 pm. Bring food or don’t bring food. Just come! We plan to tell stories, hear the Word, share testimonies, and pray with one another.

GROWTH GROUPS Life is better together! New Growth Groups begin September 17 for a 10 week study following our sermon series. Join a group today! Call 248-7940 x 108.

Interested in hosting a Growth Group? A Leader/Host Dinner and Training Session will be held on Wednesday, September 6 from 5:30-8:30pm. Call 248-7940 x 108 for more information.

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SUMMER HOURS The church office will close at 1pm on Friday, beginning on June 30th – September 1st. The church building will be open until 5pm on Fridays. The church will be closed September 4, Labor Day.

COOKIES & CANS Thank you for bringing cookies, crackers, fruit, or quick breads for all to enjoy during our fellowship hour on Sunday.

We collect non-perishable food for the Calvary Rescue Mission weekly. Your donations are appreciated! See dates you can contribute – last names beginning with…

Aug Aug Aug Aug

6 13 20 27

A - F G - M N-S T-Z

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

BAGS OF HOPE: ADAMS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Every year Gracia de Cristo/ Grace of Christ supports the students of Adams Elementary school by providing school supplies and personal care items to start a new year with the resources they need.

BAGS OF HOPE: is a blessing for the students who come from lower income families who find it difficult to afford certain necessities. It is very important for these kids to experience God’s love very early on in order to develop a kind heart and mindset towards God.

DONATIONS FOR BAGS OF HOPE: begin

August 6, and final collections will be made on August 20. Thank you for your love towards the students and families at Adams.

Aug 6: Pick-up a Green Bag of Hope Aug 20: Return Full Bags to Church Suggestion: Buy some extra pencils and crayons while prices are cheap at the beginning of the school year.

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID YAKIMA, WA PERMIT NO 59

Shopping List for Adams Notebooks (wide rule) Craft-size paint brushes Glue (craft) Crayons Scissors (kids & adults) First Aid kits Pencils #2 Hair brushes / combs Tooth brushes Toothpaste Hand soap Shampoo Deodorant Hand sanitizer Kid’s flip flops (4yr – 10yr) Hand towels